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Stolen vehicle found at cemetery

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Stolen vehicle found at cemetery

By Karen Sibanda

A night out at a popular Masvingo nightspot ended in shock for a 32-year-old Rujeko man after his vehicle was stolen only to be found hours later abandoned at Runyararo West Cemetery.

Masvingo Deputy Provincial Police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu, confirmed the incident, which occurred in the early hours of February 22, 2026 and urged members of the public to ensure that they park their vehicles in well-lit areas during the night.

“We have received a report of theft of a motor vehicle after the complainant realized that his Honda Fit had been stolen from outside a popular night spot, Masvingo. Investigations were made, leading to the recovery of the vehicle at Runyararo West Cemetery.

“We urge members of the public to avoid leaving vehicles unattended for extended periods, especially during the night. Motorists should ensure their vehicles are properly secured and, where possible, parked in well-lit and guarded areas. ,” said Assistant Inspector Patinyu.

Circumstances are that the complainant, Tapiwanashe Mapetese of Rujeko A, had parked his white Honda Fit (old shape) outside the night spot at around 10pm on February 21 before going inside for drinks.

Mapetese briefly returned to the vehicle at around 1:30am to collect a jacket. After locking the car, he went back into the bar. However, at approximately 3:00am, when he intended to drive home, the vehicle was nowhere to be found.

The vehicle, valued at approximately US$5,000, was recovered abandoned. No arrests had been made by time of writing and investigations into the theft were ongoing.

Zaka Zanu PF councillor acquitted in ‘Mnangagwa must go’ WhatsApp case

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Zaka Zanu PF councillor acquitted in ‘Mnangagwa must go’ WhatsApp case

By Brighton Chiseva
A Zanu PF councillor who was dragged to court for Incitement to commit public violence as
defined in section 187(1) Criminal law (Codification and Reform) Act as read with section
36(1)(a) of the Criminal Law (Codificationand Reform) Act after fowarding a WhatsApp
message calling for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to step down has been acquitted
Zaka Ward 24 councillor Zivanai Zvada, 44, walked free from the Zaka Magistrates Court on
February 4 after Magistrate Grace Tupiri upheld an application for discharge at the close of the
prosecution case, ruling that evidence presented by three state witnesses was “manifestly
unreliable” to secure a conviction.
The acquittal brings to a close the legal saga that began on April 1 2025 when Zvada was
arrested for forwarding a message that read: “M31 Movement Munhu wese mu road Emmerson
Mnangagwa has to go” in a WhatsApp group called “Ward 24 Development Agenda” where he
is also an admin.
Zvada is not only a Zanu PF councillor but also a constituency coordinator for Zaka South MP
Clemence Chiduwa, placing him firmly within the party’s structure even as he faced charges of
undermining the President.
The message, originally posted on X by activist Never Masweraseyi, was forwarded by Zvada on
March 31 2025 the same day opposition figures had called for demonstrations. Sources, the post
remained in the group for several hours until Zvada deleted it that evening after being warned by
fellow members.
The group was originally created by Zaka Rural District Council CEO David Majaura as a
development forum, but Zvada took over administration after his election as councilor.
Majaura, who reportedly reported Zvada to the police, has had a tense relationship with the
councillor, who was part of efforts to remove the CEO from his position.
During the trial, which commenced on January 29 2026, prosecutors alleged that Zvada’s actions
were meant to “persuade or induce the general public to disturb the peace” and incite violence
against the President. His Samsung phone was seized and sent for forensic analysis at the police
Cyber Laboratory.
Zvada spent over two weeks in detention after being denied bail at the magistrate’s court, which
deemed him a threat to public order. He was only freed on April 17 after the Masvingo High
Court granted him bail.
His lawyer, Frank Chirairo of the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights, successfully argued
that the state had failed to prove Zvada sent the message.

Magistrate Tupiri agreed, noting that witnesses including Zanu PF Ward 24 Youth Chairperson
Cuthbert Chiguvi, investigating Officer Archbald Muyambi, and digital forensic analyst Nyasha
Mandebvu had made “bold assertions” without providing evidence a reasonable

Infidelity row leaves couple dead in Ngundu

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Infidelity row leaves couple dead in Ngundu

By Ndinatsei Mavodza
CHIVI – A domestic dispute over alleged infidelity ended in a double tragedy after a 33-
year-old woman from Nyahombe New Stands in Ngundu died from complications of a bite
wound before her husband was later found hanging near their home on the same day.
Masvingo Deputy Provincial Police Spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu
confirmed the death of Monica Mbathane and her husband Donald Mataga (33) and
condemned domestic violence, saying misunderstandings in relationships should not escalate
into physical confrontations.
“I confirm the death of Mbathane and Mataga who both died on February 20 at different
intervals after a dispute on February 13, 2026 which ended up in violence.
“We condemn domestic violence in the strongest terms. Disputes between couples should
always be solved peacefully and amicably,” said Ass Insp Patinyu.
Assistant Inspector Patinyu also urged members of the public to seek help when facing
problems rather than taking their own life.
“Suicide is never an option. Challenges are part of life and can be addressed through dialogue
and support systems. We encourage people to speak out and seek help instead of suffering in
silence,” he said.
Circumstances are that the couple allegedly had a misunderstanding at their home on
February 13 at around 10PM over suspected infidelity.
The dispute turned physical, with Mbathane reportedly grabbing Mataga’s private parts. In an
attempt to free himself, Mataga bit Mbathane’s right arm causing a deep wound.
Mbathane did not seek medical attention immediately after the incident.
On February 19, she reportedly began experiencing severe complications as her arm started to
rot and she became seriously ill.
Mbathane was taken to Chivi District Hospital where she was admitted in a critical condition.
On February 20 at around 9AM, she was transferred to Masvingo Provincial Hospital and
died on the way along Tokwe-Mandamabwe road.
Her body was taken back to Chivi District Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
Later that same day at around 4PM, Mataga’s body was discovered hanging from a tree
branch on a mountain approximately 200 metres from their home.

​Procurement delays Tshovani Stadium refurbishment

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​Procurement delays Tshovani Stadium refurbishment

​By Beatific Gumbwanda
​CHIREDZI – Plans to refurbish Tshovani Stadium remain in motion despite significant
delays in the tendering process, with budgeted funds for the project reportedly still
intact.
​Chiredzi Town Council (CTC) had initially expected work to commence in late December

  1. However, administrative hurdles have stalled progress.
    ​Addressing residents during a recent ward development feedback meeting organized by
    TellZim News, CTC Vice Chairperson and Ward 1 Councilor Liberty Macharaga
    confirmed that the local authority is still committed to the project.
    ​“Refurbishment of Tshovani Stadium is still on the cards. As a local authority, we have
    set aside the beer levy from 2025 and 2026 toward the stadium. I can assure you that
    work will begin as soon as the tendering process is finalized ” said Macharaga.
    ​Macharaga explained that the initial timeline was derailed by procedural errors and a
    lack of competitive bids.
    ​“Tendering began in late November, and we hoped work would start by late December.
    However, we were informed of errors in the initial process, which forced us to re-tender.
    This required a mandatory 21-day waiting period,” he added.
    ​He further noted that the second attempt yielded only one bidder.
    ​“While we were advised that we could proceed with a sole tenderer, the history of
    Chiredzi demands high levels of transparency. We felt it was best to re-tender again to
    ensure a fair process. Interestingly, the first round had over ten interested parties who
    did not resubmit in the second round. We have urged them to resubmit their documents,
    and we hope for a successful outcome this time,” he added.
    ​Tshovani Stadium currently serves as the sole major sporting facility in Chiredzi. Beyond
    the main stadium, Macharaga urged local youths to identify smaller spaces for
    recreational development to help combat drug and substance abuse.
    ​“I encourage the youth to come up with ideas. For instance, one group identified a
    space outside Tshovani Stadium where a multipurpose court for basketball, netball,
    tennis, and volleyball could be built. I have already pledged 10 bags of cement toward
    that initiative and promised to engage the business community for further funding,”
    Macharaga said

Masvingo filmmaker makes history with AI-generated romantic film

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Masvingo filmmaker makes history with AI-generated romantic film

By Tatiana Mhararira

A Masvingo filmmaker is rewriting the rules of cinema after releasing what is believed to be one of Zimbabwe’s first artificial intelligence-driven films, blending technology with timeless storytelling. 

The film, My Valentine Surprise, directed by Arthur Muoni and released on February 14, 2026, is not just a romantic drama it is a bold experiment in how AI can shape the future of local filmmaking.

The romantic film not only entertains but also showcases the potential of technology in enhancing storytelling.

Speaking to TellZim News Muoni said the film was of great importance as it had much significance to the audience who watch it.

“The message about the film is that love is proven in difficult seasons, not easy ones. Miscarriages are not a woman’s failure they are a painful medical and emotional experience that requires support, patience, and unity. A true partner stands beside you in grief, not only in celebration.

“Another lesson from the film is about self-worth. No one deserves to be abandoned because of circumstances beyond their control. If someone walks away during your hardest moment, it reveals their character not your value,” said Muoni.

He also said the film had some lessons to be drawn from it.

“My valentine surprise also teaches the audience that marriage is about commitment, especially during loss. Compassion matters more than pride. Sometimes heartbreak exposes who was never truly ready to love unconditionally. Most important of all the right person will stay, fight, and heal with you not replace you when life gets hard,” he said.

Muoni said his inspiration to explore AI in film making wa s derived from his passion of storytelling especially in the digital age where artificial intelligence is being used in different sectors.

“I have always been passionate about storytelling, but I’m equally fascinated by innovation. The rapid growth of artificial intelligence opened up new creative possibilities that I couldn’t ignore. I saw AI not as a replacement for human creativity, but as a powerful tool to enhance it.

“When l received the script of Valentine Surprise, I wanted to create a romantic comedy that felt fresh, modern, and relatable especially to a younger, digitally connected audience. AI became part of the creative process from the early stages of concept development, helping refine ideas and visualize scenes before production even began,” said Muoni.

He also stated that AI enriched some parts of the film production and how it took part in character development which influenced the final outcome.

“AI enhanced several aspects of the production. During storytelling, it helped with brainstorming plot variations, tightening dialogue, and exploring different character arcs. In production, AI tools supported tasks like script polishing, visual concept generation, editing assistance, and even marketing strategy. For viewers, the result was a more polished and immersive experience. AI helped us streamline workflows, which meant we could focus more on emotional depth, pacing, and overall quality.

“AI contributed ideas and alternative perspectives during the writing process, but the emotional core of the story remained deeply human. Romantic comedies rely on authenticity, chemistry, and cultural nuance especially within a Zimbabwean context.AI helped explore ‘what if’ scenarios and refine dialogue, but the characters’ personalities, motivations, and emotional journeys were shaped by lived experiences and cultural understanding,” he said.

Muoni also said he faced a number of challenges and how he overcame the challenges he faced.

“One of the biggest challenges was learning how to balance AI assistance with human creativity. At first, it was tempting to rely heavily on the technology, but I quickly realized that AI works best as a collaborator, not a decision-maker.

“There were also technical limitations and a learning curve. I overcame these by experimenting, refining prompts, and continuously aligning the output with my creative vision. Ultimately, the key was staying in control of the story while using AI as a supportive tool,” said Muoni.

Looking ahead, Muoni envisions a flourishing film industry in Masvingo and Zimbabwe, shaped significantly by AI.

“I believe AI has the potential to democratize filmmaking in Zimbabwe. It can lower production costs, improve access to high-quality tools, and empower young filmmakers who may not have large budgets.

“If used responsibly, AI can help Zimbabwean storytellers compete globally while still telling authentic local stories. It’s not about replacing talent it’s about amplifying it,” he added.

The film was written by Nyaradzo Mutsauri who also wrote another film called Mugabe and   is currently in Canada. My Valentine surprise is available on YouTube Nyari tales.

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Topora night crash claims one

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Topora night crash claims one

 
 By Tadiwa Shunje

MASVINGO – A 55-year-old man from Mutirikwi died after he was run over while allegedly sleeping on a narrow road near Topora Business Centre on February 20, 2026.

Masvingo Deputy Provincial Police Spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu, confirmed that the deceased, Lovemore Vhoko of Zinwa Dam Hall, Lake Mutirikwi, had reportedly been drinking beer at Topora Business Centre earlier that evening.

“We confirm the death of Vhoko from Zinwa Dam Hall,Lake Mutirikwi who was crashed by a motor vehicle while sleeping on the road. We urge members of the public to drink responsibly and avoid sitting or sleeping on roads, particularly at night. Motorists have also should exercise extreme caution and remain alert when driving, especially on narrow and poorly lit roads,” said Ass Insp Patinyu.

Vhoko left for home at around 10:30 PM. His residence is approximately seven kilometres from the business centre and allegedly fell asleep on the roadway as he walked home. 

At around 8:00 pm, Ernest Murumbi (62) of Chief Murinye, Masvingo, was driving along the same narrow stretch of road when he unknowingly ran over him.

Murumbi reportedly did not realise that he had struck a person and continued with his journey.

The following morning, at approximately 5:00 am  on February 21, Vhoko’s body was discovered lying on the road by a fellow worker from Zinwa Mutirikwi Dam Hall, who immediately alerted authorities.

Police attended the scene and transported the body to Masvingo Provincial Hospital for a post-mortem examination.

Vhoko sustained an open cut on the left side of the head and cheek. 

After reports of the incident began circulating on social media, Murumbi surrendered himself to the police and has since been charged with culpable homicide.

Masvingo Provincial performance analysis of development projects by district

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Masvingo Provincial performance analysis of development projects by district

By Ndinatsei Mavodze

MASVINGO – Masvingo Province’s seven District Development Coordinators recently gathered at a stakeholder meeting at Masvingo Poly on March 3 to present performance reports on development projects in their respective areas, giving a rare glimpse into progress across the province’s districts.

The presentations covered infrastructure development, water and sanitation, health facilities, education, irrigation schemes, and land administration among other indicators. TellZim News analysed the reports to rank districts based on project implementation, tangible outcomes, and evidence of development momentum.

1. Gutu District – Leading with Completed Projects 

From the presentations which may be different from what is obtaining on the ground, Gutu District represented by the Disctrict Development Coodinator (DDC) Chiedza Tafirei, emerged as the best performing district, demonstrating a strong track record of completing projects rather than merely initiating them.

The district celebrated the completion and commissioning of the Sotisosi solar project, a significant milestone in rural electrification. At Lowland Irrigation Scheme, ploughing has been completed with 10 plots already under cultivation, showing tangible progress in food security initiatives.

In health delivery, Gutu successfully upgraded a rural facility to a clinic, with the application for upgrading submitted and medication now being provided. The community is already benefiting from improved health services, with the facility now admitting patients.

Gutu also showed forward thinking by providing a building for a proposed rehabilitation center, although the DDC said funds were still required to complete the project. On road infrastructure, routine maintenance covering 40 kilometres has been completed on key routes including Gutu-Buhera, Zimuto-Chatsworths, and Gutu-Kurai roads, despite funding challenges stalling further progress.

Gutu’s strength lies in completing what it starts, with the Sotisosi solar project and clinic upgrade standing as tangible evidence of effective project management.

2. Chiredzi District 

From Chiredzi’s presentation done by DDC Lovemore Chisema, the district demonstrated a wide range of development initiatives, showing engagement across multiple sectors from education to irrigation and disaster response.

The district responded swiftly to an emergency when Chikombedzi Hospital’s outpatients ward roof was blown away by a storm. With assistance from Gonarezhou, the roof has been fixed, although ceiling and paint work remains.

Chiredzi district said it was addressing water needs across several wards. Ward 5’s request for safe drinking water through boreholes had been submitted, but drilling had not commenced due to the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA) rig that was reportedly broken down, requiring alternative partnerships.

In infrastructure, the Chilonga Bridge Causeway rehabilitation in Ward 7, it was reported that a contractor was identified, with work awaiting water levels to subside. Ward 27 had made significant progress on business sites, with a layout plan adopted, stands pegged, and construction already in progress by beneficiaries.

However, the district faces challenges in education and health facility establishment. Requests for a secondary school in Ward 12, a secondary school in Ward 1, and a clinic in Ward 1 remain at motion stage, awaiting council resolutions to proceed. The Masapase Irrigation Scheme also was reported to be at planning stage.

Chiredzi’s comprehensive approach across multiple sectors places it second, though the gap between planning and implementation needs addressing.

Masvingo District

Masvingo District led by DDC Joyce Chikugu, showed impressive progress in infrastructure development, particularly under the presidential borehole scheme where 56 boreholes had been drilled. Five have been equipped and were expected to be solarized, while China Aid donated 15 bush pumps. Five more boreholes are planned, with Chatikobo and Murinye Clinic now operating with boreholes.

The district made significant strides in road maintenance, with 571 kilometres graded in total where 258 kilometres were done by Masvingo RDC and 313 kilometres by RIDA. Low-lying bridges have received attention, with Matizi Bridge completed in 2025 and Nyaukaka bridge at 54 percent completion. Mutirikwi bridge designs were reported to have been completed by the Ministry of Transport.

On environmental issues, the district addressed land degradation from mining activities through backfilling and rehabilitation. In the Chomugwaku area, where gravel mining occurred, 300 trees were planted as part of land preservation efforts.

Interventions on illegal settlers have been carried out in Wards 9, 5, and 7. The Zvinyaningwe Irrigation Scheme, covering 46 hectares, was completed.

4. Bikita District 

In his report, Bikita DDC Bernad Hadzirabwi, indicated that the district is making strategic investments in water infrastructure, with upgrading of the Rozva water plant through resending of filters set to increase volumes from 60 cubic metres to 100 cubic metres per hour. Although major activities are on hold due to resource unavailability, water coverage in residential areas was improved from 60 percent to 85 percent. Resuscitation of two boreholes as backup is in progress.

The district is addressing a major health gap, as Bikita is the only district in the province without a government district hospital. Council was paying for a topographical survey which should be completed in the first quarter of 2026.

Electrification and solarisation of boosters is in progress in Pamushana Ward 11 and Chirombe Ward 20, with plans to establish another booster in Mukore Ward 8. Proposals for outstanding areas are ongoing.

Road rehabilitation on the Makuvaza-Chiredzi road was budgeted for this year, with tendering in progress. The Negwari Irrigation scheme remains at proposed site stage with no progress, awaiting funds. 

In a significant policy intervention, Bikita Minerals was reported to be following a Ministry of Mines policy of 80 percent local employment and 20 percent outsiders, with employment ongoing. Title deeds for small-scale farmers in Wards 29 and 11 are being addressed by council and Lands.

Human-wildlife conflict in the Save Valley Conservancy was being attended to promptly, with ongoing community awareness campaigns.

Bikita’s strategic focus on water and local employment policies shows thoughtful development planning.

5. Mwenezi District 

According to the DDC Isaac Mutambara’s presentation, Mwenezi is focused on establishing foundational infrastructure in resettlement areas. Clinics have been pegged at Tshobelele, Mujuneri, and Mayezi, now awaiting construction to begin. This addresses a critical gap, as resettlement areas currently have no clinics.

The district has identified 18 war veterans for decent burial, awaiting funding from central government. All seven chiefs in the district have been allocated stands at the growth point, strengthening traditional leadership presence.

Petronella Clinic has reached 98 percent completion, a significant milestone for health service delivery in the area.

Mwenezi’s progress is steady but foundational, with many projects still awaiting construction or funding.

6. Chivi District 

In his presentation, Chivi DDC Innocent Matingwina said Chivi residents are already benefiting from Muzhwi and Tugwi Mukosi dams, with Bwanya Irrigation Scheme serving 300 beneficiaries, Gororo Irrigation Scheme with 72 beneficiaries, and Nyahombe Irrigation Scheme with 78 beneficiaries. Fishing cooperatives are set to operate soon, and electric power generation from the dam is planned.

However, the district struggles with poor road networks. Road construction is ongoing with only 2 kilometres of regravelling completed, and maintenance will only resume after the rain season.

On land issues for war veterans and widows, only 28 percent of the layout plan has been written to the provincial head for war veterans, indicating slow progress.

Chivi shows potential through dam-based development but implementation on the ground remains limited.

7. Zaka District

Zaka ranks lowest due to internal governance issues that threaten development momentum. Instead of talking about talking about developmental progress, the DDC Nyaradzo Tongofa centred his presentation on how she addressed leadership divisions and fights in the district. Discord within the local authority has necessitated tripartite meetings between the CEO, council chair, and District Development Coordinator every two weeks to solve problems.

Positively, capacity building programmes for councillors have been conducted, with all councillors trained to understand their positions and the executive trained on their roles. A team-building exercise is planned for the second quarter.

On environmental issues, the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) is conducting trainings to help communities set up standard fire guards to address veld fire problems.

While Zaka is taking steps to address internal conflicts and build capacity, governance challenges suggest development implementation may be hindered until these issues are fully resolved.

Man hangs self after wife threatens to report domestic violence

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Man hangs self after wife threatens to report domestic violence

By Tadiwa Shunje

A 25-year-old man from Chivi allegedly took his own life on February 14, after reportedly fearing he would be reported to police following a domestic violence dispute with his wife.

Masvingo Acting Provincial Police Spokesperson Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu confirmed the death of George Mutizwa who stayed under Headman Handizvihwi in Chivi following an altercation with his wife(name withheld) after which she threatened to report to the police. 

Assistant Inspector Patinyu expressed concern over domestic disputes ending tragically, urging couples to seek peaceful and lawful ways of resolving conflicts.

“We confirm the death of Mutizwa who was found hanging in a tree after his wife allegedly threatened to report a domestic dispute to the police. We urge members of the public to utilise community leaders, family elders, churches and professional counselling services to mediate in conflicts before they escalate. The public should also be reminded that gender-based violence remains a criminal offence and those found guilty face arrest and prosecution,” said Ass Insp Patinyu.

Allegations are that the couple had an argument on the evening of February 13,  over hygiene issues, with the dispute escalating. 

Mutiziwa allegedly assaulted his wife during the altercation.

The following morning, the wife reportedly left home intending to report the matter to police as a domestic violence case, leaving Mutiziwa alone at the homestead.

A few hours later, at around 1320hours residents discovered Mutiziwa’s body hanging from a Mukwakwa tree branch near his home and alerted authorities the police.

Police officers attended the scene, and no foul play is suspected. The body was taken to the Chivi District mortuary for post-mortem examinations as investigations continue.

Chiredzi 9-year-old electrocuted while  picking wild fruits

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Chiredzi 9-year-old electrocuted while  picking wild fruits

By Karen Sibanda

A tragic accident has shaken a community in Chiredzi after a nine-year-old boy was electrocuted while picking wild fruits on February 16, 2025 at Shilo Compound in Mukwasine.

Masvingo Acting Provincial Police Spokesperson Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu confirmed the death of Tatenda Dendere and urged communities to remain vigilant around exposed electrical infrastructure as well as report hanging or damaged cables to relevant authorities before more lives are lost.

“We confirm receiving a report of nine-year-old Dendere who died in Mkwasine after he touched a live electric wire and was electrocuted. We advise parents and guardians of children to caution young ones against playing or climbing trees near electrical wires. Communities should promptly report any loose or hanging cables to the relevant authorities to prevent such incidents,” said Ass Insp Patinyu.

It is reported that Dendere was with a 10-year-old friend searching for wild fruits when they passed through a church yard where a loose electrical cable was hanging through a mango tree. 

Dendere allegedly touched the live wire and was electrocuted, collapsing instantly. His friend ran to alert nearby residents.

No visible injuries were observed on the body, and the remains were taken to Chiredzi District Hospital for post-mortem examination.

Police have since warnedInvestigations into the incident are ongoing, as calls grow for improved maintenance of electrical installations in residential areas to prevent similar tragedies.

Masvingo gears up for 2026 Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo

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Masvingo gears up for 2026 Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo

By Tadiwa Shunje

Preparations for the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo, set to be hosted in Masvingo in September 2026, are gathering momentum following an all-stakeholders meeting held on February 13 to map out strategies, partnerships and logistical arrangements for the prestigious event.

Masvingo Permanent Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa, said the province recorded more than 50,000 visitors in 2025, with authorities expecting the upcoming expo to significantly boost tourist arrivals while positioning Masvingo as a leading tourism and business destination.

“Masvingo is committed to hosting a successful and well-organised event, the expo will place the province in both national and international spotlight,” said Dr Pazvakavambwa.

Masvingo has expressed readiness to host the international showcase, with over 900 rooms currently available across the city and surrounding areas. Stakeholders are also planning to expand accommodation capacity to meet anticipated demand.

“We currently have over 900 rooms available, and efforts are underway to increase that number. Preparations are being undertaken with a focus on inclusive participation so local communities and businesses benefit from the expo,” said Dr Pazvakavambwa.

Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Barbara Rwodzi said communities play a crucial role in attracting visitors by embracing and promoting their culture while warmly welcoming guests.

“We are the ones who attract visitors when we proudly showcase our culture. Tourists return home with a positive image of who we are,” said Rwodzi.

The event will be held at Masvingo Gymkhana Grounds from September 9 to 12, 2026. Conference sessions are scheduled for September 9–10, followed by business-to-business engagements from September 10–11, while a public day is expected to draw hundreds of local visitors.

The Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo is Zimbabwe’s premier tourism showcase, attracting local and international exhibitors, investors and buyers.

Hosting the 2026 edition is expected to boost Masvingo’s tourism profile, stimulate infrastructure development, and create investment and employment opportunities within the province.

The expo was first held in Bulawayo in 2008 and has since grown into a major national and international tourism and investment platform. The 2025 edition was hosted in Mutare, while the 2026 event will mark the first time Masvingo hosts the expo.

Masvingo is home to some of Zimbabwe’s most significant cultural, historical and natural attractions. Key sites earmarked for promotion during the expo include Great Zimbabwe World Heritage Site, Gonarezhou National Park, Lake Mutirikwi and Tugwi-Mukosi Dam, offering visitors a diverse mix of heritage, wildlife, leisure and adventure tourism.

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