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Registration of hospitality facilities critical ahead of Sanganai Hlanganani Expo

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Registration of hospitality facilities critical ahead of Sanganai Hlanganani Expo

By Karen Sibanda

Government has underscored the urgent need for hospitality facilities in Masvingo to register and comply with national standards as the province prepares to host the Sanganai Hlanganani Expo in September at Gymkhana.

Speaking at the Sanganai Hlanganani All Stakeholders Meeting held recently at Flamboyant Hotel, the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Barbara Rwodzi, said compliance was not optional but mandatory ahead of the high-profile event.

“Registration of hospitality facilities is not optional but mandatory as we prepare for the Sanganai Hlanganani Expo. We must ensure that every restaurant, lodge and guest house operating in Masvingo is properly registered and compliant with national standards. We want visitors to experience the best services under regulated and certified establishments,” said Rwodzi.

She warned that unregistered operators risk tarnishing the province’s reputation, particularly during events that attract both local and international exhibitors and tourists. Proper registration, she noted, allows government to monitor health standards, enforce tourism regulations and provide structured support to businesses.

Rwodzi added that formalising operations enhances investor confidence and strengthens Masvingo’s position as a competitive tourism destination.

“When facilities are registered, it builds trust with visitors and partners. It also ensures fairness in the industry and accountability among operators,” she said.

The Sanganai Hlanganani Expo, scheduled for September at Gymkhana, is expected to attract stakeholders from across the country and beyond, placing preparedness and compliance within the hospitality sector high on the Government’s agenda.

The Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira, was represented at the meeting by the Permanent Secretary for Masvingo Province and Devolution, Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa.

Minimum wage increases by 8% for Agro-subsector

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Minimum wage increases by 8% for Agro-subsector

……..as NEC Agriculture moves to strengthen relations with sugarcane Agriculture subsector

By Beatific Gumbwanda

The National Employment Council for the Agricultural Industry (NEC Agriculture) recently held a significant employer engagement session with stakeholders from across the sugarcane subsector,  where it indicated that the minimum wage has increased from the initial US$137 to US$148 in the Agro-subsector, which is a biggest achievement towards attainment of vision 2030 of an upper middle class economy, TellZim News can report.

NEC Agriculture hosted its inaugural stakeholders’ engagement meeting with the sugarcane subsector at Palm Tree Place to plan the way forward through dialogue designed to inform and motivate, where it highlighted that the minimum wage had just increased by 8%, from US$137 to US$148, which is a significant milestone towards attainment of an Upper middle income economy by 2030

Since its establishment in 1991, the National Employment Council for the Agriculture Industry in Zimbabwe has aimed to promote social justice and democracy within the industry through social dialogue, bringing together employers, any individual employer wishing to participate, and registered trade unions representing workers.

The meeting was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, leadership from the Zimbabwe Sugarcane Growers Apex Council, and employer associations from across the Lowveld region.

NEC Agriculture’s Chief Executive Officer, David Madyausiku, opened the meeting by recognising the significance of the sugarcane subsector, which spans from agricultural enterprise into manufacturing, energy production, and even advanced material sciences, where he indicated that through Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the minimum wages had increased from US$137  to US$148.

“We all know how the adage is true that sugar is in all that we eat, and the importance of this subsector to this agricultural industry, to manufacturing, to energy production, and nowadays even in the material sciences, can only be understated by the ignorant,” 

“Through the recent CBA, the minimum wage in the Agricultural subsector has just increased by 8%, from US$137 up to US$ 148, making it a significant step towards attainment of vision 2030,” said Madyausiku.

This view was supported by NEC Agriculture Chairperson, Tsitsi Nyirenda, who urged farmers to leave a legacy that future generations will admire.

“Have you created your own blueprint in line with the Nation’s 2030 vision? What are you going to bring to the table? Your children should thank you for efficiently utilising the land after you are gone,” said Nyirenda.

Muchena emphasised that this was a reminder of how crucial the industry’s labour relations are.

He also mentioned that the Council has a fully operational regional office staffed by three full-time employees, a deliberate investment in proximity and responsiveness to the region’s employers and workers.

“They are there to meet your needs, and with your support, they will continue to perform the essential work of your employment council,” added Madyausiku.

The meeting was initiated by the formal gazettal of the Job Evaluation Report for the sugarcane subsector, registered as Statutory Instrument 224 of 2025, which officially codifies jobs and grades across the industry.

This provided an opportunity for employers to understand what the instrument means for their operations and workers, breaking down legal jargon into practical workplace guidance.

Muadyausiku concluded by highlighting the current challenges and opportunities within the context of the national Vision 2030 strategy, Zimbabwe’s blueprint for achieving upper-middle-income status.

“We are in a time of great complexity. However, we are also in a time of great optimism, and cooperation guarantees it. Divisions destroy the prospects of it,” said Madyausiku.

Bernadette Chipembere Tamba, Chairperson of the Zimbabwe Sugarcane Development Association (ZSDA), also stressed in her vote of thanks the importance of ongoing engagement between NEC Agriculture and sugarcane farmers through improved communication processes that will continually enlighten both parties about the intricacies of the industry.

Innovate or risk extinction, Absolute Security staff told

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Innovate or risk extinction, Absolute Security staff told

By Virginia Njovo

Staff at Absolute Security Services have been urged to embrace innovation and technological advancement or risk losing relevance in the security sector amid ongoing technological innovations. 

Speaking during the company’s appreciation dinner held recently at Urban Lifestyles Hotel  in Masvingo held under the theme ‘An Evening of Appreciation, Future Secured’ guest of honour Dr Noah Zulu warned that companies which fail to adapt to rapid economic and technological change risk becoming obsolete.

“The economy is changing and technology is moving fast. If we lack innovation and creativity, we become people without purpose and what is left is for us to expire,” said Dr Zulu.

Dr Zulu challenged the security firm to consider how emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics could be integrated into its operations to enhance efficiency and remain competitive.

“AI is already transforming industries. Robotics technology is coming. The question is: how does Absolute make these technologies relevant to its services? If you become irrelevant, you will have no purpose. But if you innovate and define your purpose, you will grow to greater heights,” he said.

In his remarks, Absolute Security Services Managing Director Thulani Sibanda expressed gratitude to employees, stakeholders and spouses for supporting the company since its establishment in 2018.

“I am grateful to all our stakeholders who have worked with us since our inception in 2018. Your commitment has brought us this far. Our spouses play a pivotal role in our success. They ensure our officers come to work prepared and supported. In many ways, you are security officers too. Continue supporting your partners as they serve in this demanding profession,” said Sibanda.

Founded in 2018 by Sibanda, Absolute Security Services has grown into one of Zimbabwe’s expanding private security firms, with Noraz Surgical Clinic as its first client.

Beyond traditional guarding services, the company has diversified into car insurance, EcoCash services, ZB agency services, firearms training for members of the public and insurance agencies.

With its motto, “To Serve and to Protect,” the company remains committed to adapting to industry changes while strengthening service delivery.

Jichidza High head retires after 41 years of service

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Jichidza High head retires after 41 years of service


By TellZim Reporter

Dedicated educator and Jichidza High School head, Thompson Charambira, has retired after 41 years of service, bringing to a close a journey that began on January 1, 1984. His career, though not always smooth sailing, reached its destination with dignity and honour.

Born on February 2, 1962, Charambira’s path into education was shaped by determination and purpose. He completed his O Levels at Zimuto High School in 1979 before enrolling at Hillside Teachers College, where he obtained a Certificate in Education in 1983.

Armed with youthful ambition and a passion for teaching, he joined Jichidza High School on January 1, 1984, a date that marked the beginning of more than four decades of dedicated service to the institution.

In 1992, Charambira rose to the position of Acting Deputy Head, a role he served faithfully for 18 years until 2010. Demonstrating a commitment to professional growth, he furthered his studies and obtained a BSc Education Honours Degree from Bindura University in 2006.

His leadership journey culminated in 2019 when he was appointed substantive Head, a position he held with distinction until his retirement.

At his farewell ceremony, speaker after speaker paid tribute to a leader described as humble, visionary and hardworking. Colleagues and stakeholders portrayed him as a patient listener and dependable advisor who led by example. Many highlighted his open-door policy, fairness and steady guidance that shaped both staff and students.

Reformed Church in Zimbabwe Moderator, Rev. Dr. Ezekiel Baloyi, chronicled Charambira’s life journey, from his days as a pupil at Zimuto High School to his rise as an accomplished educationist and school head.

“Looking at the life of Mr Charambira, it is a reminder that leadership is not built overnight, but through years of consistency, sacrifice and faith. His legacy will endure not only in school records or official titles, but in the lives he touched, the careers he nurtured and the institution he helped strengthen,” said Rev. Dr. Baloyi.

Representing Zaka North Member of Parliament Ophias Murambiwa, Kenias Dick used the occasion to pledge the long-awaited upgrade of the 106km road from Jichidza to Chimedza before the end of 2026.

“We promise that the long-awaited upgrading of the road from Jichidza to Chimedza will be completed before 2026 comes to an end,” said Dick.

The ceremony also attracted distinguished guests, including representatives from the Ministry of Education, heads of NAPH and NASH, Chief Nyakunhuwa’s representative, church leadership and fellow heads from RCZ schools reflecting the high regard in which he is held beyond the school community.

As Jichidza High School turns a new page, it does so standing firmly on the foundation built by a man whose life’s work became intertwined with the school’s history.

Reformed Church in Zimbabwe mourns Rev Magadure

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Reformed Church in Zimbabwe mourns Rev Magadure

By Virginia Njovo

The Reformed Church in Zimbabwe (RCZ) is mourning the passing of Reverend Magadure Magadure, a devoted servant of God whose ministry was marked by humility, faith and dedication.

Rev Magadure, who was born on May 20, 1974, in the area under Chief Mugabe in Masvingo, died on February 3, 2026, at his rural home. He was 51.

Known for his deep commitment to the Church and the community, Rev Magadure devoted his life to serving as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament. He was also fondly remembered for his favourite hymn, “Kana vakundi vopinda kudenga, ndinoda kuva mumwe wavo kana vopinda,” reflecting his longing for eternal life in Christ.

Rev Magadure began serving the Church in its printing press department from 2010 to 2014. In 2015, he answered the call to ordained ministry and enrolled at Murray Theological College to pursue theological studies in preparation for the Ministry of the Word and Sacrament. He completed his training in 2018.

On December 2, 2018, he was ordained and began his ministerial journey at RCZ Chikwanda Congregation in Gutu. He faithfully served the congregation for six years before retiring on medical grounds on December 17, 2024.

Speaking at his burial on February 5, 2026, RCZ Moderator Rev Dr Ezekiel Baloyi described Rev Magadure as a true devotee of Christ whose legacy would endure.

“Rev Magadure’s ministry was marked by humility, dedication and faithfulness. His efforts will remain etched in the life of the Church and in the hearts of those he served. He was instrumental in the growth of the RCZ, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations,” said Rev Dr Baloyi.

Quoting Revelation 14:13 — “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on… Yes, says the Spirit, they will rest from their labour, for their deeds will follow them”, Rev Dr Baloyi said the Church was giving thanks for a life lived in faithful service.

“The Reformed Church in Zimbabwe has been robbed of a giant in the Ministry of the Word and Sacrament, but we commend his soul to the Lord,” he said.

Rev Magadure is survived by his wife, Svitsai, and their four children two boys and two girls.

Fishing trip ends in tragedy for Chiredzi man

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Fishing trip ends in tragedy for Chiredzi man

By Ndinatsei Mavodza

MASVINGO – A routine fishing trip ended in tragedy for James Rushwaya (44) of Section 7 in Hippo Valley, Chiredzi, after he died in a suspected crocodile attack at Manhuwe river on February 4, 2026. 

Acting Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Deputy Provincial Police Spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu confirmed the incident and said investigations are ongoing.

“We confirm the death of Rushwaya from Hippo Valley in Chiredzi who died after he had gone for a fishing trip at Manhuwe Village. His body was discovered with missing body parts. Investigations are still ongoing,” said Ass Insp Patinyu.

Assistant Inspector Patinyu urged members of the public to avoid fishing or working in crocodile-infested rivers, warning that such areas remain extremely dangerous.

“We urge all members of the public to avoid entering or fishing in crocodile-infested rivers and water bodies. These animals are dangerous, especially during the rainy season when water levels rise. Always be alert and keep a safe distance from riverbanks,” he said.

Circumstances are that  Rushwaya left his home on the day in question at around 9 AM intending to fish using casting nets.

Rushwaya returned home that day, prompting concern from his friends and family who began searching for him.

The search continued into the following day, February 5, but Rushwaya was still not found. 

On February 6, villagers teamed up and went to the river after suspecting that he may have been attacked by a crocodile.

During the search, villagers discovered Rushwaya’s clothes on the riverbank. 

About 200 metres from where the clothes were found, they spotted his body floating in the river and retrieved it.

Police attended the scene and observed that the body had missing body parts, including the right leg and private parts, which are consistent with injuries caused by a crocodile attack.

Rushwaya’s body was taken to Chiredzi Hospital Mortuary for post-mortem examination.

Crocodile attacks across the country tend to rise during the rainy season when higher water levels expand habitats and increase human activity on rivers and lakes, such as fishing and crossing waterways. 

Wildlife authorities have reported numerous human-crocodile conflict cases in recent seasons, with several fatalities and injuries recorded, particularly around water bodies where people and crocodiles share space.

Masvingo roads severely damaged by heavy rains

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Masvingo roads severely damaged by heavy rains

By Karen Sibanda
MASVINGO,The state of roads in Masvingo has deteriorated following weeks of heavy rains, leaving
many routes damaged and, in some cases, completely impassable.
The worsening conditions have raised serious concern among residents, transport operators, and local
authorities, as key access roads linking residential areas, business centres, and rural communities
continue to crumble under the impact of persistent downpours.
Potholes have widened into deep craters, some roads have been washed away, and drainage systems
have failed to cope with the volume of water, accelerating the damage. Commuters now face longer
travel times, increased transport costs, and heightened risks of accidents.
Masvingo United Residents and Ratepayers Alliance (MURRA) Board Chairperson, Thomas Mbetu,
described the situation as critical, warning that the scale of destruction requires urgent and coordinated
intervention.
“The situation is critical. Our roads are severely damaged, with many now impassable, cutting off
communities and threatening lives. This destruction has risen to the level of a provincial disaster. We
urgently call on the City Council and the Ministry of Transport to intervene immediately and declare a
state of emergency to facilitate urgent repairs,” said Mbetu.
He added that beyond the visible damage, the road crisis was affecting livelihoods, particularly for
informal traders and rural farmers who rely on accessible roads to transport goods to markets. Mbetu
stressed that without swift action, the situation could worsen, especially in low-lying areas prone to
flooding, where further rainfall could completely isolate vulnerable communities.
Masvingo City Council’s Public Works Committee Chairperson, Richard Musekiwa, acknowledged the
poor state of the roads but indicated that the local authority was preparing to respond as the rainy
season comes to an end.
“The state of the roads is bad but as the rainy season is drawing to an end, our road maintenance teams
will be moving on the ground to attend to the roads. Council is mobilizing equipment and human capital
to execute the maintenance works. We hope that the central government is going to assist us,” said
Musekiwa.
Musekiwa noted that while council had limited resources, efforts were being made to prioritise the most
affected areas, particularly major access roads and routes servicing densely populated suburbs. He
emphasized that collaboration with central government and other stakeholders will be crucial in
ensuring that the rehabilitation programme is effective and sustainable.

Residents continue to face daily transport challenges, with commuter omnibuses avoiding certain routes
due to the poor conditions, forcing passengers to walk long distances or pay higher fares. Some
motorists have also reported frequent vehicle breakdowns caused by the deteriorating roads, further
increasing the cost of living.
There are growing calls for both immediate temporary interventions such as patching and grading and
long-term infrastructure rehabilitation to prevent recurring damage during future rainy seasons.

Murray Theological College holds 101st licensing ceremony

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Murray Theological College holds 101st licensing ceremony

By Virginia Njovo

Just months after celebrating its centenary, Murray Theological College of the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe marked another milestone with its 101st licensing ceremony, during which seven candidate ministers were officially licensed.

The ceremony which was held at Morgenster Congregation Church recently was attended by senior church leaders from across the country and beyond. Among those present were the Moderator, Rev Dr Ezekiel Baloyi, General Secretary Rev Lovemore Mashamba, Actuary Rev Charles Juro, and other members of the Synodical Executive.

The service was held under the theme ‘Called to Illuminate: Living as Salt and Light of the World,’ drawn from Matthew 5:13–16. Delivering the sermon, Rev S Kugedera urged the newly licensed ministers to remain faithful to Christ’s teachings as they begin their journey of service.

“As you embark on this new journey of leading God’s people, you are called to be the light. Lead with passion and humility, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide you as you live according to Christ’s word,” said Rev Kugedera.

College Principal Rev Dr Simbarashe Munamati, commended the candidates for their dedication and praised the institution’s commitment to holistic ministerial formation.

“Hard work, dedication, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit have brought them this far. As an institution, we have equipped them with knowledge, skills, and character to serve both God and humanity,” said Rev Dr Munamati.

Rev Dr Munamati said the college strives to foster spiritual growth, intellectual curiosity, and practical application.

“To our brothers, I say go forth with courage, conviction, and compassion. May your studies and experiences help you make a meaningful impact as messengers of love,” he said.

The church’s Moderator, Rev Dr Ezekiel Baloyi, reminded the newly licensed ministers that ministry is a sacred calling rooted in service rather than titles.

“A good minister is not known by position or title. It is a sacred calling to shepherd God’s people with faithfulness, humility, and courage,” said Rev Dr Baloyi.

He emphasized the importance of grounding ministry in both scripture and church order.

“The Bible must be in your right hand, for it is the living Word of God and the source of truth and spiritual nourishment. In your left hand must be the Book of Church Order, which will guide you in your service,” he said.

The newly licensed candidate ministers are Loveson Chiwara, Innocent Mawaya, Felix Mugwisi Tigere, Gerald Mupazi, Tafadzwa Ndaba, Shepard Nemarundwe, and Tsaurai Ruhode.

Berejena learner who shocked the nation after passing ‘A Levels’ at form 3 shares his story

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Berejena learner who shocked the nation after passing ‘A Levels’ at form 3 shares his story

By Tadiwa Shunje

MASVINGO — A Form Three learner from Berejena High School in Chivi has captured national attention after sitting for and passing A Level Arts examinations, an achievement rarely seen at his level. Lincoln Gopo earned 13 points in History, Economics, and Sociology, stunning educators and peers alike.

Gopo revealed that his motivation came from his role as a junior parliamentarian, where he frequently debates against A Level learners.

“I had to compete with senior students in debates, which pushed me to study harder and deepen my understanding of social and cultural issues. Learning about Zimbabwean history and culture strengthened my sense of patriotism and drew me toward Arts subjects,” said Gopo.

Despite his success at A Level, Lincoln is currently in Form Four, studying science subjects at O Level. He is sitting for 12 subjects and plans to increase them to 15, including Pure Mathematics, Statistics, and Additional Mathematics. His interest in science, he said, is inspired by historical figures such as Isaac Newton, whose work motivated him to understand how scientific knowledge was mastered in the past.

Gopo said balancing O Level and A Level studies was not easy but his determination and support from the teachers at his school as well as parents helped him triumph.

“While I was in Form Three, I had to learn O Level work while also preparing for A Level subjects. I used lunch breaks to consult senior students and follow their syllabus,” he explained, noting that the process demanded discipline, focus, and commitment.

Looking ahead, Lincoln aspires to study Constitutional Law at the University of Zimbabwe, while continuing with science subjects to broaden his academic scope. He credited his success to hard work, faith, and focus, urging fellow learners to ignore negative criticism. “People will always try to discourage you, but it is important to focus on your vision and work towards excellence,” he said.

Lincoln emphasized that he could not abandon his strength in Arts, public speaking, and debating, talents which he believes will help him reach his full potential.

Berejena High School offers both Arts and Science subjects at the secondary level and has a track record of producing learners who participate in academic, leadership, and debate programmes, including the Junior Parliament, which encourages civic engagement and academic excellence.

Masvingo Province commemorates World Wetlands Day in Bikita

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Masvingo Province commemorates World Wetlands Day in Bikita

By Virginia Njovo

Masvingo Province marked World Wetlands Day on February 6, 2026, at Nerumedzo Primary School in Bikita East Constituency, with communities urged to continue protecting wetlands through traditional knowledge systems.

Held under the theme “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge,” the event coincided with the celebration of the Chinyamaparo Spring, a vital wetland resource that has been preserved for generations through cultural practices.

The Chinyamaparo Spring is one of the many wetlands whose protection is essential for the preservation and restoration of ecosystems, as well as for sustaining local livelihoods.

Speaking during the commemorations, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Masvingo Province, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa, applauded the Nerumedzo community for its continued commitment to protecting the spring.

“Today’s theme, Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge, is perfectly personified here. For centuries, the Nerumedzo community has protected this ecosystem using indigenous knowledge systems passed down by our ancestors, who understood that certain areas were sacred and had to be protected,” he said.

Dr Pazvakavambwa said the province was celebrating not only environmental conservation but also a cultural heritage that continues to safeguard natural resources.

“We are here to appreciate a miracle of nature, the Nerumedzo forest, famous across Zimbabwe not only for its beauty but also for its legendary harurwa (edible stinkbugs),” he said.

Environmental Management Agency (EMA) Provincial Manager, Milton Muusha, said Masvingo Province was currently protecting over 90 wetlands, with seven of Zimbabwe’s nationally recognised wetlands designated as being of international importance.

“The province is implementing 96 wetland protection projects in Gutu, Masvingo, Bikita and Zaka districts, all funded by the Government of Zimbabwe. Among these is the Driefontein Wetland, which is partly located in Gutu District,” said Muusha.

Muusha emphasised that traditional leadership and cultural values have played a critical role in wetlands conservation.

“Our discussions with local leadership here in Nerumedzo show that sacred cultural values have helped protect this wetland, proving that African heritage has always been the first line of defence for the environment,” he said.

Vengesai Village head, Maxwell Vengesai said ancestral rules and prohibitions have guided the community’s use of the spring for decades.

“We have been using water from this spring for generations by strictly following the rules we grew up knowing. This area is sacred, and there are many practices we must observe to ensure we do not lose this precious gift,” he said.

World Wetlands Day is commemorated annually on February 2, highlighting the importance of wetlands and the need for their sustainable management.

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