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Chibuku Neshamwari 2025 Edition Roars to Life

By Rangarirai Shanyurai

The 2025 Chibuku Neshamwari Traditional Dance Festival will run from May 10 to July 19, showcasing Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage. The Masvingo event is scheduled for June 7 at Masiza Nengere Bar in Chiredzi.
In a recent press statement, Delta Corporation announced that national winners will receive US$15,000, first runners-up will take home US$10,000, and second runners-up will earn US$7,500. At the provincial level, winners will receive US$2,500, with US$1,500 and US$1,000 awarded to second and third place, respectively.
This year’s festival theme, “Ngoma Ngairire Shamwari, Tshay’sgubhu Mngane,” celebrates unity through dance. With a legacy spanning over 60 years, the award-winning Chibuku Neshamwari Festival continues to captivate audiences through cultural expression and traditional dance.
Delta Corporation, in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) and the Zimbabwe National Traditional Dance Association (ZNTDA), is leading this year’s edition.
“This year’s festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of our culture and heritage through traditional dance,”
“Aspiring participants must register their groups with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and ZNTDA.”
“Competitions will take place across all ten provinces, culminating in the national finals.
“In preparation, ten provincial finals will be held, leading to the national finals. Participants have the chance to win monetary prizes at both provincial and national levels,” reads part of the statement.
Last year’s national winners, from Mashonaland East, showcased the Mbende dance.
This year’s provincial competitions will be hosted in Gweru, Mutare, Hwange, Banket, Chiredzi, Mutoko, Beitbridge, Mabvuku, Bulawayo, and Shamva.

Mazda T35 lorry with 30 passengers crashes killing one

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By Tatiana Mhararira

A horrible traffic accident occurred along Chiredzi -Roy road and claimed one while 17 people were injured.
Masvingo provincial acting police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu confirmed the incident where one life was lost.
“I confirm the accident where a Mazda T35 truck white in colour which was being driven by Last Chirambamuriwo (33) was involved in an accident and one person died.
On April 23, 2025 around 0700 hours Chirambamuriwo was driving towards Roy with 30 passengers on board.
At 84km peg Chirambamuriwo failed to engage the correct gear and the lorry to failed to climb the steep road and it reversed before overturning twice and landed on its left side.
One passenger Rutendo Gonese (39) who stays in village 9 Chiredzi sustained a deep cut on the head and died on the spot while others were injured.
The injured and deceased were taken to Chiredzi General Hospital.

Manhede Bulldogs win Masvingo Pool Independence trophy

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By TellZim Reporter

Manhede Bulldogs solidified their dominance in Masvingo’s pool scene by clinching the 2025 Independence Trophy in a fiercely contested tournament that showcased the province’s talent and competitive spirit.
The two-day event, offering a US$500 cash prize for the winners, drew top teams from across Masvingo.
Group stage matches and semifinals took place on Saturday at Stopover, with the grand finale hosted on Monday at Landmark Bar.
Led by captain Nyasha Edwin, known as “Kenge” in pool circles, the Bulldogs delivered a commanding performance throughout the tournament. Their final match against New Horizon was a thrilling clash, with the Bulldogs securing a 7-5 victory to claim the title.
“We’re proud to be crowned 2025 Independence Cup champions. This victory reflects our hard work and aligns with our goal to compete for every major trophy in Masvingo,” Edwin said.
In the third-place playoff, Aminas outplayed City Clinic, earning a 7-3 win with a strong display of skill. All teams demonstrated remarkable talent and sportsmanship, making the tournament both a competitive spectacle and a celebration of community spirit.
New Horizon received a US$300 cash prize, while Aminas earned US$200 and City Clinic took US$100.
Organizers hailed the tournament as a success, noting the rising popularity of pool in the region and the value of such events in providing platforms for emerging players.
With this triumph, the Manhede Bulldogs have sent a clear message to rivals across the province, that they are not just competitors but formidable contenders for every title on offer.

Chigarapasi Beerhall reopens amid contract dispute

By Beatific Gumbwanda

CHIREDZI – Zimbabwe’s largest beerhall, Chigarapasi, reopened abruptly in April under EVS Inc Pvt Ltd after Big Five Beers’ lease expired on September 30, 2024.
Allegations suggest the reopening breached terms requiring 90 percent completion of renovations, with claims that the owner’s connections protect the lease from cancellation.
A source close to the matter said EVS was to open only after completing most renovations, with costs offset against rent.
“EVS was supposed to open to customers after completing 90% of the renovations, as the beerhall is in poor condition, but they began operating immediately after approval to renovate, despite an unsigned lease,” the source said.
Chiredzi’s acting Town Secretary, Lloyd Musasa, neither confirmed nor denied the allegations but verified that EVS won the tender to operate Chigarapasi for US$4,000 monthly rent.
“EVS won the tender to lease Chigarapasi Beerhall at US$4,000 per month, covering bars, cold rooms, and facilities. The agreement requires the tenant to renovate, with costs agreed upon and offset against future rentals,” Musasa said.
He added that he was unavailable, to comment on the breach of contact having delegated to the Public Relations Officer, who was also out of office. Efforts to reach the council chairperson were futile, as he was unavailable.
Chiredzi Town Council closed Chigarapasi in December 2016, following Ministry of Local Government orders to shut non-profitable entities.
After public outcry, as over 1,000 families, including sex workers, relied on the beerhall for their livelihoods, it was leased in 2017.
Big Five Beers operated it until September 2024, when the lease expired. After a five-month closure, EVS won the tender to take over.
EVS previously operated Caravan in Ward 2, where community complaints arose over noise from Thursday’s “China Chemadzimai” shows, causing sleepless nights. Chigarapasi, opened in the early 1980s for low-income sugarcane workers in the Lowveld, spans 16,273 square meters.
The reopening has sparked debate, as the beerhall’s condition and the unsigned lease raise questions about oversight.
The council’s agreement with EVS hinges on renovations, but the premature opening suggests potential mismanagement. The community, heavily dependent on the beerhall, watches closely as EVS navigates its controversial start.

Man Loses Vehicle to Thieves Posing as Passengers

By Tatiana Mhararira

A 26-year-old man from Rujeko, Masvingo, lost his car to two thieves who posed as passengers seeking a ride to Majange.
Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu, acting provincial police spokesperson for Masvingo, confirmed the incident involving Allan Hadzisa and urged the public to assist with information.
“We confirm that Hadzisa, a resident of Rujeko C, was robbed of his car, and nothing has been recovered. We appeal to anyone with information leading to the arrest of the suspects or recovery of the stolen property to report to the nearest police station,” Patinyu said.
On April 21, 2025, at approximately 11:30 p.m., Hadzisa was driving his silver 2004 Mazda Atenza, registration ACT 6658, toward Mucheke Rank.
Two men flagged him down at Mucheke High, in another Masvingo suburb, requesting a ride to Majange. They paid US$5 and took seats, one in the front passenger side, the other in the back.
Upon reaching the DDF area, the men instructed Hadzisa to stop. The passenger in the back brandished an electric device, threatening to kill him if he didn’t comply. Fearing for his life, Hadzisa handed over US$15.
The rear passenger then forced him into the backseat while the front passenger took the wheel. In a desperate bid to escape, Hadzisa opened the door and jumped from the moving vehicle, sustaining hip injuries. The thieves sped off with his car.
The total value of the stolen property, including the vehicle, is estimated at US$3,015. Nothing has been recovered, and the suspects remain at large.
Police continue to investigate and encourage anyone with information to come forward to aid in apprehending the culprits and recovering Hadzisa’s vehicle.

Victoria Primary Pupil Wins Toto Miss Africa Award

By Tatiana Mhararira

Victoria Primary School continues to excel in modeling after another learner, Nothando Gugulethu Sibanda, was crowned First Princess at the Toto Miss Little Africa pageant held recently in Cairo, Egypt.
The seven-year-old earned the opportunity to represent Zimbabwe after winning the Toto Miss Africa Zimbabwe pageant in 2024.
Joy Mukisa from Uganda was crowned the 2025 queen, while Lethukula Makgotso Fakude from South Africa took second runner-up. Waishe Maverick from Zimbabwe won the Toto Mr Africa award.
Speaking to journalists at Charles Austin Theatre on April 24, 2025, Sibanda’s coach and manager, Tajae Mwenda, said she inspired and mentored her to reach this level.
“This achievement reflects passion, perseverance, and dedication. Nothando was inspired by my own modeling journey. She often joined me at rehearsals, watching me walk the stage with wide eyes and a curious heart. As I pursued my dreams, she learned and grew alongside me.
“When her moment came, she shone, first as Miss Victoria Primary School, then as Toto Miss Africa Zimbabwe in 2024, proving that with hard work and support, anything is possible,” Mwenda said.
Mwenda added that financial challenges were significant but thanked those who helped.
“Fundraising for the Egypt trip was tough. We faced setbacks from institutions we expected to support us, but we stayed determined. Sibanda’s family showed remarkable resilience, sacrificing greatly to make her dream a reality. We’re grateful to friends and the community who contributed, no matter how small. Your generosity meant everything,” she said.
Community member Tinashe Mutoti expressed pride in Sibanda and urged parents to nurture their children’s talents.
“Sibanda has raised the name of her family, school, town, and nation by winning this award. I encourage parents to support their children’s interests. When a child shows passion, parents should motivate them. Sibanda’s success shows what’s possible with support,” Mutoti said.
Sibanda will hold the crown until 2026 and is currently leading the Disability Pride Project, appealing for donations to buy winter uniforms for children with disabilities.
Victoria Primary’s former pupil, Dillish Masango, made history at last year’s pageant in Nigeria, winning three awards: Miss Popularity, Miss Smile, and Miss Toto Africa Second Runner-Up.
Those wishing to assist with donations can contact Tajae at 0786872606 or Tandiwe at 0773905115.

Father impregnates daughter, both connive to kill infant before committing suicide

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By Virginia Njovo

Tragedy has struck Chirimuka Village in Gutu after a father and daughter took their own lives while under investigation for the illegal burial of a newborn.
Yvonne Chidanika (21) and her father, John Chidanika (48), were found hanging from trees a few meters apart after police launched a probe into the burial of Yvonne’s two-day-old infant.
Acting Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu, confirmed the incident.
“I confirm the deaths of Yvonne and John from Chirimuka Village in Gutu, who were found hanging from trees after police began investigating the burial of the former’s two-day-old infant,” Patinyu said.
According to reports, Yvonne gave birth at home with assistance from a local midwife on April 11.
The infant developed breathing complications and died two days later. John allegedly buried the child without notifying authorities, prompting police to investigate and plan to exhume the body.
Before their deaths, the pair told family members they were heading to Nerupiri Police Station to address the matter.
Yvonne’s younger sister followed them a few hours later and found them on a nearby hill.
They reportedly asked her to return home and prepare a meal. When she came back, she discovered both hanging from trees.

Pamushana High learners showcase Smart Car Park innovation at ZITF

By Virginia Njovo

Learners from Pamushana High School unveiled a smart car park system designed to streamline parking and integrate modern technology into everyday life at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) in Bulawayo.
The project was presented by Lower Sixth learners Beloved Chiutsi, Tinotenda Dondo, and Tryphine Charumbira.
The school’s science exhibitions patron, Brighton Madzvimbo, told TellZim News that the system aims to enhance parking efficiency through technology.
“The smart car park innovation seeks to optimize parking efficiency and improve user experience through advanced technology. The learners developed a model featuring real-time parking availability updates, automated payment systems, and a user-friendly interface. It addresses urban challenges such as traffic congestion and limited parking spaces,” Madzvimbo said.
Exhibited under the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education’s (MoPSE) initiative to promote science and robotics in schools, the project aligns with the Heritage-Based Curriculum (HBC), which encourages learners to develop practical, innovative solutions.
“As MoPSE continues to mainstream science and robotics, Pamushana was proud to present a student-developed piece of technological art. Their booth attracted significant attention with interactive displays and a functioning model of the smart car park. Visitors were particularly impressed by the pupils’ energy and the real-world relevance of their solution,” Madzvimbo said.
Beyond their technical achievement, the learners were commended for their ability to articulate complex concepts clearly and confidently. Their performance highlighted the importance of fostering STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education in schools.
Pamushana High School’s participation in ZITF underscores the vital role of young innovators in addressing real-world problems.
As the learners refine their project, they are not only preparing for future careers in technology but also inspiring their peers to think critically and creatively about community challenges.
In addition to the smart car park, the school showcased a clothes collector project developed by learners Tinevimbo Nyamazuda, Anesu Manyengura, and Artwell Mavesera. This project further demonstrated the learners’ creativity and the school’s commitment to technological innovation.
Pamushana High School continues to be a beacon of innovation, nurturing learners to become future leaders in technology and community development.

Stray Pigs Wreak Havoc in Jerera

By Staff Reporter

Residents of Jerera, Zaka, are calling for urgent action to address the issue of stray pigs roaming the streets, causing damage and disruption to crops.
There are reports that the pigs have been knocking over market stalls, damaging property, and destroying crops in both the central business district and residential areas.
Ward 19 Councilor Albert Mazvanya confirmed the problem, stating that the pigs belong to one individual who has failed to secure them.
“The pigs are wreaking havoc, eating and destroying gardens. They belong to former Zaka Police Officer Jonah Mtisi. We have engaged him to ensure he removes them from the growth point,” Mazvanya said.
He added that the pigs roam freely, targeting the marketplace where they eat vendors’ goods and overturn bins.
“They also dig holes under fences and perimeter walls to enter yards, where they eat crops and dig up flowers,” Mazvanya explained.
When contacted by TellZim News, Mtisi acknowledged the situation and said he is in the process of collecting the pigs in batches.
He explained that the pigs strayed after he was transferred to Mkwasine, where he struggled to manage them due to his workers’ negligence.
“It’s true, the pigs are mine. I had an accident at work in 2019 and was later transferred. Because of that, I couldn’t manage the project, and my workers would let them out since I wasn’t around,” Mtisi said.
“When they’re not controlled, they breed excessively, which is why there are so many in Jerera.”
Mtisi also revealed that his home was destroyed by Cyclone Idai in Chimanimani, forcing him to prioritize securing a new place to live and covering medical expenses after his discharge.
“The little I had went to medical bills and a new home. Now, I’ve finished building a house and am constructing pigsties. I’m collecting the pigs in batches from Jerera.
“So far, I’ve collected 50 and am trying to speed up the process. I’m also building temporary shelters to clear them faster,” he said.
Mtisi appealed to organizations and individuals interested in starting piggery projects to approach him and purchase the pigs, which would help accelerate the removal.
“If there are organizations or individuals who need them, they can come and get a good breed. This would also help me clear them faster,” he said.

Hivos empowers youth, women through advocacy training

By TellZim Reporter

Hivos in Southern Africa recently conducted a training workshop to equip women and youth from across Zimbabwe with advocacy skills to enhance their confidence and ability to claim their rights.
The workshop, held at a hotel in Harare, was part of the S(H)E Matters project, implemented by Hivos with support from the Embassy of Ireland in Pretoria.
It focused on providing participants with practical advocacy tools to engage policymakers and other authorities in advancing their rights.
Hivos Project Officer Rumbidzayi Machimbirike said one of the major issues raised during the training was the prevalence of sexual harassment, particularly among women in the media and farm work sectors.
“One of the key challenges that emerged was sexual harassment faced by women in the media industry and among farm workers. This training was designed to equip rights holders with the tools, strategies, and techniques needed to advocate effectively for their rights,” Machimbirike said.
She added that the training introduced participants to national laws, as well as regional and international human rights instruments, that can be leveraged for advocacy.
“The program aimed to enhance participants’ knowledge of frameworks such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), helping align local advocacy efforts with global standards,” she said.
Abigirl Khupe, a participant from the CITE Youth Network, said the training was critical for young women in the media industry, where sexual harassment often goes unreported.
“As women in media, we’ve observed numerous unreported cases of sexual harassment. Many victims fear retaliation and lack access to clear reporting mechanisms and accountability structures.
“Following this training, CITE is now empowering young women to understand what constitutes sexual harassment, how to identify it, and the proper channels for reporting it as part of our advocacy work,” Khupe said.