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New pest, African Army worm wrecks havoc

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New pest, African Army worm wrecks havoc

By Tatiana Mhararira

After struggling with the fall army worm in recent years, Zimbabwean farmers were optimistic about a good harvest due to normal to above normal rainfall received this season.
However, their hopes have been dashed by a new invasive pest, the African Army Worm natively known as Mhunduru.
The black worms have been devouring everything green in their path, including pastures thereby threatening the livelihoods of animals as well.
Their destructive power is so intense that wherever they invade, they leave a trail of destruction and can cause up to 70 percent crop loss if left unmanaged, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
The fall army worm has already been reported in 22 districts of the country.
Masvingo Provincial Agritex Director Caleb Mahoya said the African army worm was first recorded early February in Chiredzi District eating sugarcane plants at an early stage and went on to spread in all the other seven districts.
Mahoya told TellZim News that the provincial department of agriculture was making efforts to control the spread of the armyworm throughout the province.
“When a report is made and confirmed extension officers from wards get chemicals from the district Grain Marketing Board (GMB) depots or from the department of migratory pests. District offices can supply wards with chemicals for control. Agritex coordinates movement of chemicals and writes letters to GMB.
“Farmers affected by the outbreak are being provided with technical guidance, Agritex is playing a front row by coordinating access of chemicals from different sources such as GMB, Migratory pests department and some private players. In some scenarios farmers are mobilized so that they do contributions to purchase chemicals,” said Mahoya.
Mahoya said the African armyworm will have long term consequences on the province if not controlled.
“The long term consequences of the outbreak on the province include severe crop yield loss hence food insecurity for the communities. In future the outbreak can be mitigated through supply of standby chemicals before onset of season intensifying collaborations with private sector since African armyworm is a notifiable pest,”said Mahoya.
Migratory Pest Control Director in the ministry of agriculture, Shingirai Nyamutukwa said the ministry was increasing chemicals in areas affected by the African armyworm outbreak
“As a Ministry, through the Migratory Pest Department, we are sending more chemicals to areas which were affected most by the armyworm outbreak, chemicals have been there but they need to be added. We are also sending materials for farmers to use during the application of chemicals.
“We also encourage farmers to check in their fields on a daily basis so that we know areas which have been affected and assist them on time with chemicals,” said Nyamutukwa.
In Masvingo, the pest was reported in six out of seven districts and only Chivi has not recorded cases of the African army worm.

Car import fraudster vanishes with US$48K

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Car import fraudster vanishes with US$48K

By Tatiana Mhararira

A 36 year old man from Masvingo is on the run after he allegedly swindled US$48 750 from various residents pretending to be a car import agent with Be Forward.
In a statement released on February 19, 2025, police in Masvingo confirmed the incident and warned members of the public to be on the lookout for fraudsters especially those intending to import motor vehicles.
He encouraged residents to seek the services of reputable organisations when importing vehicles.
“ZRP Masvingo Province is warning members of the public to be wary of a fraudster who is defrauding unsuspecting members of the society their hard earned savings. Tinashe Tabarembengo (36) from ZBS in Masvingo is being sought in connection with the cases which occurred in Masvingo
“Members of the public are also advised to safeguard their savings by engaging or using reputable organizations in the procurement of vehicles,” read parts of the press statement,”
It is alleged that from the period extending from February 2024 to December 2024, Tabarembengo who pretended to be a Be Forward Agent was approached by about 10 people who wanted to be assisted to purchase and process papers for different motor vehicles. The victims would give Tabarembengo cash or deposit money into his account.
Tabarembengo promised to import the vehicles but failed to deliver them or return the money. He later disappeared to an unknown destination and the total value stolen is US$48 750.
The police appealed to members of the public to inform the police information that can lead to the arrest of the accused.

Man left for dead after winning cellphone in gambling bout

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Man left for dead after winning cellphone in gambling bout

By Tatiana Mhararira

In a shocking incident, a Zaka man was almost killed by his colleague in a fight after a gambling bout where the victim won a cellphone belonging to the suspect.
Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the incident and urged people to avoid using violence to solve disputes.
“I confirm an incident of attempted murder where Prichard Sonono hit Vengai Manyanga and left him for dead after a gambling argument. I urge members of the public not to engage in gambling and should find amicable ways to solve disputes,” said Dhewa.
On February 18, 2025 at around 1900 hours Manyanga and Sonono were playing a gambling game of cards natively known as Makasi/Makasa at Chisiya Business Centre in Masvingo Central.
The accused gambled his Samsung cellphone and lost the game. Manyanga took the phone as per agreement.
After an hour Sonono demanded his cellphone back but Manyanga refused saying he had won it in the game.
The accused became angry, took a stick and hit Manyanga from behind. Manyanga fell unconscious and Sonono took his cellphone and left the scene.
Some villagers who were around took Manyanga to Chatikobo clinic where he was referred to Masvingo Provincial Hospital.
He was further referred to Harare for CT scan and was reported to be in a serious condition.

Jerera woman loses cash, valuables during robbery

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Jerera woman loses cash, valuables during robbery

By Meditation Mposi

A woman from Ndanga area in Zaka was robbed of valuables and cash with a combined value of US$856 and R1010 on February 23 while walking home from Jerera Growth Point.
Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the incident and encouraged members of the public to avoid walking with important valuables especially at night.
“I confirm an incident where Deletria Banda (55) of Mushayavanhu Village, Ndanga was robbed of money and some important valuables while walking home from Jerera Growth Point. I urge members of the public to abstain from walking during the night with important valuables,” said Dhehw.
On February 23 around 1900hours Banda was walking alone going home in Jerera residential area from the growth point. A man came from behind and stabbed Bhanda several times demanding valuables and cash.
Bhanda surrendered Itel P40, two power banks, a laptop, US$216, 1010 Rands and the person vanished into the darkness.
Banda was taken to Msiso Hospital for treatment where she was later on discharged and investigations were ongoing by time of writing.
The suspect is still on the run.

SDA Church donates solarized borehole to Zaka community

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SDA Church donates solarized borehole to Zaka community

By Meditation Mposi

The Seventh Day Adventist Church (SDA) recently donated a solarized borehole to Munjanja Village, ward 18 in Zaka Central Constituency on February 23, 2025.
The donation came at a time when the community was in dire need of water for domestic use and animals.
Zaka District SDA Pastor Patson Magobola said the project was a reflection of the Church’s Mission to share the love of Christ through acts of service and compassion.
“As a church, we are humbled to be able to provide the solarised borehole to Munjanja community, a gift that will bring life, giving water to those who need it most.
“This project is a reflection of our Church’s mission to share the love of Christ through acts of service and compassion. We pray that this borehole will be a blessing to the Munjanja community and a reminder of God’s love and care to his people,” said Magobola.
SDA Zaka District Chairperson and Jerera Central SDA Church first Elder Euvencio Hungwe said they were moved by the biblical verse in the book of James about faith and works.
“Our Church was moved by faith and desire to serve. We were inspired by the word of God in James 2 verses 17 to 26 which says faith without works is dead. The borehole represents more than just water but hope for a brighter future, for a healthier community and hope for healthier children.
“Funds were contributed by members of the Church and we are happy because the spirit of giving has nourished our souls. Above all we hope our gesture will be a vehicle for evangelism to prepare souls for the second coming of Jesus,” said Hungwe.
Ward 18 councilor Hakufiwi Hakufiwi thanked the SDA Church for relieving the community and urged the church to expand its support to the entire constituency.
“One solarised borehole was donated to Munjanja community by Seventh Day Adventist Church after realizing serious shortage of water in the Village.
“I urge members of the Seventh Day Adventist Church not to tire and end with this but to also extent their love and support to the entire constituency,” said Hakufiwi.
Munjanja Village Head Philip Munjanja said they were happy as a community and said the donation had eased water challenges in the area.
“The church drilled 50m and we had to put an effort and paid for extra 30m to make them 80. We then got a pump, solar panels and a Jojo tank from the church and now people have clean water. We are happy and wish the church well ,” said Munjanja.

Chiredzi RDC commissions fire tender, road equipment

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Chiredzi RDC commissions fire tender, road equipment

By Beatific Gumbwanda

CHIREDZI- Chiredzi Rural District Council (CRDC) recently acquired road construction machinery including the Belarusian Fire Tender which the local authority said would go a long way in fighting veld fires in the district.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony at CRDC Head Offices recently, CRDC Chairperson Aspect Mashingaidze said the equipment, motorized graders and tippers, was going to be used for road rehabilitation across the district.
He said the district was at risk of fires which could emanate from burning of sugarcane during harvest and at times get uncontrollable and the fire engine will be handy.
“I want to thank the President for the devolution initiative which is empowering local authorities. Here in Chiredzi, we are a farming community for both crops and wildlife and the fire tender will help us fight fire hazards. We burn sugarcane during harvest and sometimes the fire might be uncontrollable.
“We also have the grader and tipper which are currently deployed at Sango Border Post where we have more than 800 kilometers of road under rehabilitation,” said Mashingaidze.
Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe who was the guest of honor said the government availed fire tenders to every local authority in order to fight the spread of fires.
“Fire tenders should be distributed to all local authorities in order to fight fire across the country and most were delivered to the respective councils. We are now going to embark on training of the operators,” said Garwe.
Veld Fires are common in Chiredzi during sugarcane harvests as well as during the beginning of farming seasons in communal areas.
CRDC is home to various National Heritage sites including game parks and conservancies which are at risk from veld fires which originates from surrounding communities.
The Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Park (GLTCP) which includes South Africa’s Kruger National Park, Mozambique’s Limpopo National Park and Zimbabwe’s Gonarezhou National Park which is to the South Eastern side of the lowveld, Malilangwe Conservation Trust and the Save Valley Conservancy, are all housed by Chiredzi Rural District Council, which makes them responsible when it comes to veld fires from the surrounding farming communities.

Kamangira set to participate in the Bonaqua Triathlon Africa Cup

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Kamangira set to participate in the Bonaqua Triathlon Africa Cup

By Rangarirai Shanyurai

Prominent Zimbabwean triathlete, the Lightning Bolt of Triathlon, Milton “Khama” Kamangira (54) is set to participate in the Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Cup on March 8, at Troutbeck Resort in front of Lake Nyanga.

The Bonaqua Africa Triathlon 2025 is poised to be a spectacular showcase of talent, determination and athletic excellence as senior Elite and Junior triathletes from across the globe converge to compete in a thrilling battle across the swim, bike, and run disciplines.

Kamangira confirmed that he will be competing in the Bonaqua Triathlon African Cup and said he was participating in the tournament to inspire others and representing his company Schweppes Holdings Africa Limited (SHAL).

“The 2025 Triathlon season will mark my fourth year competing in the Bonaqua Triathlon African Cup as part of the Corporate Team Challenge. Each year, my excitement grows as I look forward to representing my company on a bigger stage and being part of the incredible Zimbabwe Triathlon family.

“What keeps me coming back is the unique combination of camaraderie, personal growth and the thrill of pushing my limits alongside inspiring teammates and competitors. The sense of achievement and pride in representing my company, while contributing to the vibrant triathlon community, makes this event a highlight of my year

“The combination of the serene environment, the camaraderie among teammates and the thrill of competition makes every race day special. These moments, big and small, are what make the triathlon journey so rewarding and keep me coming back year after year,” said Kamangira.

He said the greatest benefit he gets from the tournament was improved physical and mental fitness due to exercises.

“My greatest gain from participating in the Triathlon Corporate Challenge has been achieving and maintaining overall body fitness. Taking triathlon seriously has motivated me to train daily, ensuring I stay in peak condition to tackle the challenging terrain at Nyanga, commitment to fitness has not only improved my physical health helping me avoid concerns like high blood pressure and diabetes but has also become a powerful way to de-stress.

“Running, in particular, has become my escape from the daily pressures of life, allowing me to clear my mind and recharge. Professionally, the discipline and resilience I have developed positively impacted on my work ethic and ability to handle challenges,” said Kamangira.

Kamangira said he was thriving to win a top spot and urged all corporates to join.

“I am aiming for the top of the podium and I won’t be taking it easy. This year, I’m fully focused on bringing my A-game and leaving everything on course. Winning is not just a goal it’s a mind-set and I’m determined to make it happen.

“I encourage all corporates, individuals, running clubs, gym clubs and fitness enthusiasts to join us in Nyanga. This event is not just about competition it’s about coming together as a community, challenging ourselves and having fun while celebrating fitness and teamwork,” said Kamangira.

In a statement, Coca-Cola Companyindicated that the Bonaqua Africa Triathlon 2025 showcased young athletes aiming for Olympic success amid intense competition and high stakes.

“These young athletes represent the future of triathlon and their performances in Bonaqua Africa Triathlon 2025 will be a testament to their potential to shine on the Olympic stage in the years to come.

“As the countdown to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo continues, the Bonaqua Africa Triathlon 2025 takes on added significance. For many athletes, this event is a crucial opportunity to earn valuable points and strengthen their chances of qualifying for the Olympics. The stakes are high, and the competition will be fierce, promising edge-of-the-seat action for fans and spectators,” part of post reads.

 The tournament will have athletes from Austria, South Africa, Japan, Morocco, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Germany, France, Greece, USA and beyond, the event celebrates the diversity and universality of triathlon. As athletes compete for points and pride, the event will serve as a stepping stone to the 2026 Winter Olympics, adding an extra layer of excitement and significance,” other part reads.

A triathlon is an athletics competition in which each competitor takes part in three events: swimming, cycling, and running.

Masvingo pensioners demand seat in State Pension Fund Board

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Masvingo pensioners demand seat in State Pension Fund Board

By Rangarirai Shanyurai

Masvingo pensioners asked for a seat in State Pension Fund Board during a public bill hearing at Civic Centre, Masvingo on February 25.
Pensioners said the bill gave the parent minister too much power to appoint board members excluding the pensioners themselves and said at least two members of the board should be pensioners.
Former legislator and Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) National Coordinator Harrison Mudzuri challenged clause 10 and 11 of the bill and said they two needed to be changed.
“Clause 10 grants the board investment powers, while Clause 11 allows the minister to issue policy directions. In clause 11, there are twelve board members and out the twelve, nine are appointed by the minister and we feel it’s not proper.
“We think six members should not be appointed by the minister because the appointer is the disappointer. The appointed plays to the tune of the appointer accordingly. The board must be elected by majority and we should have at least two pensioners in that board,” said Mudzuri.
He said the pay outs for pensioners were supposed to be enough for them to survive after retirement since most of them ended up looking for other jobs to make ends meet instead of resting.
“Pension benefits should have a bench mark so that retired civil servants would benefit because they might end up doing other work instead of resting,” said Mudzuri.
Retired Shakashe Head Alexander Mashenjere said pensioners were suffering as the pay-out was too little as compared to what others used to get and the monthly salaries they were getting could not cover essentials.
“I served in Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education for 37 years and retired in 2023. My pay out was equivalent to US$600 but long back others were getting better.
“We urge the government to review pension pay-outs regularly because the standard of living for many is declining,” said Mashenjere.
Another pensioner Tinos Mamboko said he struggled after getting his pension pay-out in local currency that was losing value every day.
“We are struggling to survive, we get US$30 per month and that is not enough for basics. We end up removing other services like medical aid and funeral policy from the budget.
“The situation is getting worse by the country’s high inflation rate which has seen the value of local currency falling and this is not fair considering the number of years we have been in government,” he said.
The Parliamentary Portifolio Committee on Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare chairperson Tendeukai Matara who was chairing the hearing said the bill sought to ensure that pensioners live a decent life after retirement.
“The State Service (Pensions) Bill, 2024, aims to establish a centralized State Service Pension Fund, enhancing financial security for retired state employees. It ensure a that members enjoy a decent standard of living in their retirement.
“The Fund will provide for payments of pensions, gratuities and other benefits in respect of retirement of persons employed by the State. The Bill aligns with international social security standards and consolidates pension management under a unified framework,” said Matara.
The State Service (Pensions) bill consists 38 clauses and Clause 1 provides for the short title and commencement of the Act. Clause 2 defines key terms such as approved service, pensionable emoluments and Fund.
Clause 3 establishes the State Service Pension Fund, centralized for the payment of pensions and other benefits to members and dependents. Clause 4 outlines the composition of the Fund, comprising contributions from members and the State, investment income, and other accruing sums.

Pedestrian killed in horror crash on Mutare Masvingo Road

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Pedestrian killed in horror crash on Mutare Masvingo Road

By Meditation Mposi

A pedestrian was hit along Mutare Masvingo Road by a black Honda fit which was driven by the former Member of Parliament (MP) for Zaka North Ernest Mudavanhu (56) of Pangolin Masvingo on February 24 and died on the spot.
Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the death and encouraged drivers to exercise all road regulations while driving.
“I confirm the death of Tafara Tasakara (33) of Nongerai Village, Chivi who was hit by a car while crossing the road. I urge drivers to exercise due care and attention on road and pedestrians are also urged to check the roads before crossing,” said Dhewa.
On February 24 at around 1915 hours at 290 kilometer peg along Mutare – Masvingo Road, Tasakara was crossing the road from northern direction to when he was hit by Mudavanhu’s car.
He sustained severe head injuries and died on the spot. The body was taken to Masvingo Provincial Hospital for postmortem.

Delta donates US$10 000 towards cancer fight

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Delta donates US$10 000 towards cancer fight

By Rangarirai Shanyurai

Delta Corporation recently donated US$10 000 to the Cancer Association of Zimbabwe (CAZ) for prisons in Masvingo Province to conduct breast, cervical and prostate cancer education as well as screening to inmates.
Cancer is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with delayed diagnosis often resulting in poor health outcomes.
In a press statement, Delta Corporation indicated that inmates faced challenges in accessing medication and said the partnership was going to benefit inmates in Masvingo Province
“Incarcerated individuals face unique challenges in accessing timely and equitable health care services, including cancer screening.
“To address the disparity, CAZ in partnership with Delta Corporation offered breast, cervix and prostate cancer education and screening services to inmates and prisoners at the following prisons, Masvingo Remand, Mutimurefu, Gutu, Bikita, Zaka, Chiredzi, Chikombedzi, Mwenezi and Chivi prisons/satellites with support from Delta Corporation,” part of the statement reads.
The campaign was meant to empower inmates with information around cancer and more than 200 were screened.
“The campaign started with breast, cervix, and prostate cancer education sessions in a bid to empower the participants with information on prevention and early detection to reduce morbidity and mortality from cancers.
“Breast education equipped the participants with skills on how to conduct a self-breast examination and what to look out for. A total number of 282 women and men were screened,” reads the statement.
Delta Corporation Limited General Manager Corporate Affairs Patricia Murambinda said the grant from Delta enabled them to empower communities to combat cancer through education, screening and evidence based interventions which improved lives of patients.
“This project has enabled us to take a step towards empowering communities to fight against cancer, which is a major public health concern.
“The provision of education and screening will assist in cancer prevention and improving the quality of life of cancer patients, their families and communities through timeous, sustainable and evidence-based interventions and this has been made possible through a generous grant from Delta,” said Murambinda.

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