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Edgars, RCZ Women’s league donates to Copota, Henry Murray

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Lloyd Shunje

Edgars Stores and Reformed Church in Zimbabwe (RCZ) Women’s League on Saturday donated clothing stuff to RCZ run Copota School for the blind and Henry Murray School for the deaf .
The clothing stuffs were separately handed over to both schools by the RCZ Women’s League Sungano Yamadzimai International Chairperson Tendai Chidhindi accompanied by the Vice Secretary Hellen Zishamba and Magret Chakabuda, a league member.
Speaking during the handover ceremony Chidhindi expressed gratitude to Edgars for welcoming the request by the Women’s league seeking assistance to help children in need in the church run schools.
“We give thanks to Edgars who openly welcomed our request, and they have assisted with clothes which we are giving today to our friends who are on need.
“We liaised with the school authorities and they have selected 10 students from each school, whom they feel they are in need of assistance”, said Chidhindi.
A representative from Edgars, James Saka said the students from both schools should be part and parcel of the society besides being differently abled and they will continue to assist them.



“We are honoured by the women’s request and we are there to assist both the blind and deaf children, they should be part of the society and we will continue to stretch our hand to our friends in need” said Saka
Copota and Henry Murray authorities thanked the Women’s League and Edgars Shop for remembering the needy children.
“Our school has been surviving on donations as many of our students are orphans and they cannot afford to pay school fees, so with people like you our children have friends” said Elastos Zishamba the Deputy Head at Henry Murray.
“Most of our children here are blind, whilst some of them have a low vision, we thank you for your assistance to dress our students as they need you to survive” also said Maxwell Tarisai representing Copota school head.local  

Youth fund abused, Zhuwawo told

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By Moses Ziyambi

Masvingo provincial head in the Ministry of Youth, Indigenisation and Economic Empowerment, Kudakwashe Machako told his new minister Patrick Zhuwawo that the Youth Development Fund was abused by some of the beneficiaries while the other half lack the commitment to pay back.
Speaking at a familiarisation meeting for Zhuwawo in Masvingo yesterday, Machako said the high rate of defaulting among the beneficiaries had effectively killed the fund.

“The default rate is 89 percent by our own calculations. Most people, for various reasons, are not paying back the money that they borrowed under the fund. I am not necessarily saying they abused the funds – though there are some who did abuse the funds – it is just lack of commitment,” said Machako.
The fund was incepted in 2011 supposedly to advance youth economic empowerment and ease the burden of unemployment.
Its administrative process has however, been criticized as unsustainable, not transparent and being used as a vehicle to advance Zanu PF patronage.

                                      Patrick Zhuwawo
In claims that could further discredit the fund, Zhuwao indicated that there is no clarity as to the actual amount that Masvingo got, with official figures varying from those held by banks.
“Masvingo is said to have got $222 000 from the one million dollars disbursed, but CABS is saying it’s $230 000. Whatever the amount, it was not enough and we have since talked to CABS, IDBZ and CBZ to see what really happened and get to the bottom of the matter. We want it to be not only a revolving fund but a growing fund,” said Zhuwao.
CABS, IDBZ and CBZ were some of the disbursing agents of the funds.local

US$3 million set for HIV survey

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By Theresa Takafuma

Three million United States dollars have been set aside for the Zimbabwe Population-based HIV Impact Assessment (ZIMPHIA) which will see 15 000 households countrywide receiving free doo-to-door HIV and syphillis testing.
The survey,which is a first of its kind in the world will be rolled out in early October, also has nine organisations partnering with the Ministry of Health and Child Care to undertake it.
Speaking at ZIMPHIA official launch at Celebration Centre in Harare recently, Minister of Health and Child Care Dr David Parirenyatwa said the US government under President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and Global Fund against AIDS,TB and Malaria provided significant funding for the survey.


                                           Dr Parirenyatwa
“Zimbabwe like many other countries in the region is a resource constrained country but works closely with its donors and partners. Undertaking ZIMPHIA is a major task that requires huge sums of money and I would like to thank the US government for providing significant funding for this project under PEPFAR and also the Global Fund against AIDS,TB and Malaria,” Parirenyatwa said.
Parirenyatwa said ZIMPHIA’s results will give policy makers a platform to understand the impact of HIV at population level, and will give participants to know their HIV status.
“My ministry is very excited about ZIMPHIA as its results will offer us a platform as policy makers to better understand the relative impact of HIV at population level and additionally provides participants with an opportunity to know their HIV status,” Parirenyatwa said.
“I am happy that ZIMPHIA has been designed to make meaningful contribution to specific results in the ZIMASSET, which is our national blueprint for socio-economic development,” the minister said.
PEPFAR has provided substantial resources to the survey, the U.S Deputy Chief of Mission to Zimbabwe Robert Scott said through PEPFAR, the implementation of HIV activities in Zimbabwe will continue receiving his country’s support.
“Through PEPFAR, we are committed to continuing our support, towards the implementation of HIV and Aids activities in Zimbabwe and in particular, its first HIV impact assessment,” Scott said.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe is the first African country to implement such a detailed population-based HIV impact assessment survey, and its implemeantation in Zimbabwe will set a global example on how such surveys are going to be implemented in other countries.
Masvingo,among other provinces will have 53 enumeration areas assesed using ZIMSTAT standards.
Fifteen to twenty countries, primarily in sub-Saharan Africa will also roll out surveys of this nature in the near future.health

Masvingo ZANU PF district elections put on hold

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 By Moses Ziyambi

The much anticipated ZANU PF district elections for Masvingo Urban have been shelved indefinitely for unclear reasons though insiders confided it could be the work of powerful party members who feel they are not yet well prepared to ensure their preferred candidates win.
The elections were supposed to be held last weekend.
“There are influential comrades who feel the playing field does not favour their disciples hence the unexpected delay. They are trying to buy enough time to tilt the ground in favour of their preferred candidates,” said the source who refused to be named.


Zanu PF  Masvingo provincial chairman Paradzai Chakona

The elections would have seen different positions including those of chairpersons of every wing in the district being contested.
Claims of the postponement of the elections being a strategic political manoeuvre were echoed by another source who said the intense jostling for position, it was not certain if the elections will be held any time soon.
“We were surprised to be told the elections had been put on hold until further notice. We know a powerful hand is at play to advance the chances of certain candidates seen as friendlier,” said another source.
ZANU PF Masvingo acting provincial chairperson Paradzai Chakona could not give details saying he was in Harare.
“You can check what is happening with our provincial office as I don’t have the details with me as yet,” said Chakona.

Matutu’s plan to re-join MDC-T causes commotion

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 By Tell Zimbabwe Reporter

September 19, 2015– There is commotion in the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC-T) Masvingo provincial structures following the former Masvingo Urban legislator and now disgruntled People’s Democratic Party (PDP) deputy secretary general Tongai Matutu’s indications that he might consider re-joining the Morgan Tsvangirai led party.
Although, Matutu  is quoted in other sections of the media saying that he has not yet resigned from PDP, he told Tell Zimbabwe early this week that he was no longer interested in working with Biti. He described PDP leaders as ‘classic idiots’ who do not have any capacity to win any election in Zimbabwe.
But Matutu’s plans to trace his footsteps back to MDC-T has been since received with mixed feelings  as  those who remained with Tsvangirai argue that he should not be readmitted while others strongly believe that Matutu’s come back will add value to the party.
MDC-T national spokesperson Obert Gutu told Tell Zimbabwe that he was happy to learn that ‘Matutu has seen the light’.
“If Matutu has repented and seen the light, the party would welcome him because we have a big tent approach.  We are not vindictive like ZANU PF so if our prodigal son wants to come back home, he is welcome.
“Matutu has been a member of the party for a long time… he has realised that Tsvangirai is the only president and as a democratic party we welcome him back to the struggle. The same will apply for other prodigal sons who lost their way,” said Gutu.
However, Masvingo provincial MDC-T officials have been using social media to trade insults after disagreeing on the way forward in case Matutu knocks at their doors seeking to be forgiven and re-admitted into the party.


                        Tongai Matutu
“We have learnt through Tell Zimbabwe that Matutu wants to come back to the party and we believe this guy cannot be trusted. We do not want anything to do with him and his fellow colleagues.
“When they left they tarnished the party’s reputation and now he wants to come back to the party they once cursed? The party has to look into this matter carefully,” MDC-T official contributed in a debate on WhatsApp discussion.
 Another insider said officials in a WatsApp group called MDC-T Tisu Anhu Acho started to trade insults on Friday afternoon and the debate is still going on as people continue to discuss on the best way to handle Matutu once he officially announces his position.
MDC-T Masvingo provincial chairman James Gumbi however, said although people have the freedom to discuss the issue, the province will not hesitate to open the door for Matutu.
Speaking to Tell Zimbabwe on Saturday, Matutu maintained that he was considering going back to Tsvangirai.
He said that he was not looking for any position if he is re-admitted in the MDC-T.
“I am no longer after positions. MDC-T has always been my home and I have brothers and sisters there. Of course, my intention is certainly going to make some people insecure because they think that I may take their positions…. Let everyone know that once accepted, I will just work as an ordinary member in the party until 2018.
“Fighting for democracy is in my DNA and it’s not a secret, people must know that I am more effective without a position. I have done a lot of work for MDC and I want to continue with that spirit,” said Matutu.
Quizzed to shed light on his actual position in the PDP, Matutu laughed and repeated that he was prepared to go back to Tsvangirai.
Matutu did not attend the strategic planning meeting for national executive members held in Gweru this week. politics
 

RCU Initiates Innovative Community Engagement

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September 19, 2015 – Early Childhood Development (ECD) pupils at Chikava Primary School in rural Masvingo recently received a boost when a delegation from the Reformed Church University donated a truckload of handmade toys as the University intensifies its community engagement initiatives.
The donation of handmade toys developed by the RCU Bachelor of Education Honours Degree in Early Childhood Development students, is a strong demonstration of the University’s vision for engagement and innovation for national transformation.


RCU Business Development Officer and Student playing with Chikava Primary School pupils.
Commenting on this important development, RCU Vice Chancellor Professor Wiseman Magwa said , “the RCU is cognisant of the fact that its market position as one of Zimbabwe’s Christian universities brings a level of responsibility to the communities within which it operates. As a University, we shall continue to make these initiatives in order to stimulate and consolidate sustainable development at all levels in society.”
Chikava Primary School Head Mr. Zvavashe said he was humbled by this initiative, adding that Early Childhood Development students at his school had a lot to be happy and smile about.
The RCU’s Business Development, Information and Public Relations office noted that, “the University uses these occasions as forums for the public to interact with the RCU brand, thus gaining insight into its identity as a University, and what it represents.”
In its statement, the office added that, “RCU’s dedication to being a responsible academic institution goes beyond merely providing teaching and research. Rather, the University strives for greatness with the urge to raise the RCU flag high and develop the vast potential that is proudly Zimbabwean.”
The Reformed Church University was formed out of the Charter given to the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe (RCZ) by the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Science and Technology in 2010. The University, presently located at Morgenster Mission, about 35 kilometres from Masvingo, is Zimbabwe’s 4th church-owned university.

Matutu dumbs Biti

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… says PDP is a party of classic idiots

Tell Zimbabwe Reporter

September 18, 2015 – The Tendai Biti led People’s Democratic Party (PDP) deputy secretary general Tongai Matutu has resigned saying he discovered that the party was being ‘led by classic idiots who have nothing to offer besides attacking Tsvangirai’.
Speaking to Tell Zimbabwe yesterday, Matutu said he has since discovered that the party has no capacity to attract supporters.
“I have since resigned. I cannot continue with idiots … they have nothing to offer besides saying Gumbura that, Gumbura this… These guys are a bunch of disgruntled failed politicians who are united over some grievances. They are bitter with Tsvangirai and they have nothing to offer the people of Zimbabwe,” said Matutu.
Matutu who is former Masvingo Urban Member of Parliament (MP) and deputy minister during inclusive government said he was considering looking for another political home.


Leaving Biti’s party …Former Masvingo Urban MP Tongai Matutu

Although he did not disclose plans to go back to Tsvangirai, Matutu said Tsvangirai’s party was far better than any opposition political party in Zimbabwe.
“I can bet with my wife … Biti has no people and he will never be able to attract 20 000 supporters at his peak. Hate him or like him, Tsvangirai has grassroots support,” said Matutu.
PDP secretary general Goden Moyo refused to comment saying he had not yet received official resignation letter from Matutu.
“In as far as I know, Matutu is our deputy SG. I cannot comment basing on what you are saying because Matutu never told us that he is resigning. I will be able to comment when I get an official communication not rumours,” Moyo told Tell Zimbabwe on Friday morning.politics

Quench systems tops media category at Lowveld Show

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By Upenyu Chaota/Itai Muzondo

Chiredzi – Having opened an Information Technology (IT) business in 2008, Masvingo’s Quench Systems Private Limited has proved unstoppable, not only in ICT business but the media fraternity as they scooped a whooping first price award in the at the recently held Lowveld Agricultural Show.
In an in-depth interview with Tell Zimbabwe the organisation’s Chief Operations Manager, Edmore Mkwenje said he was delighted that the Lord is rewarding their company for the good work they have invested in.

Edmore Teererai Mkwenje (right) poses for a pic after coming first in Chiredzi
“Scooping an award in the IT category was not really a surprise to me as this is the work we do best and undeniably good. It was however a surprise to me and the rest of my team to be nominated in the media category and finally scooping the first award. It is surely the Lord’s hand at work,” said Mkwenje.
“What has kept our organisation going and improving is sticking to our key principle that is to never compromise quality as others would do, mostly on monetary grounds.
“Our unique target area as exemplified by penetrating marginalised communities in the communal areas of Masvingo like Zaka and Chivi and exposing them to the technological world. We have since resolved to expand to Chiredzi and am proud that we have successfully set an office in Zvishavane,” Mkwenje added.
The organisation’s Graphic Designers also added that the awards further motivate them to give quality service to the society.
“One major accelerator to our quality is this award and others we scooped before. No one would like to destroy a name well built through visible achievements like these awards, so we will definitely work hard to maintain our good service and name in the society,” said Conilius Thandi.
“If you do well, you will always be rewarded. Some may wonder why we have had such visibility but Quench Systems is the pioneer of installing internet services in schools around the province and we were the first to import the Mutton Value Jet printer which prints banners. So as pioneers of such visible work, we deserve the credit,” added Edison Chivise.
Meanwhile, Quench Systems also announced that they are going to sponsor the Ordinary Level teacher of the year award from selected schools in Masvingo province.local

Plan to dispose of council houses hits snag

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 Moses Ziyambi

A controversial plan to sell council houses to tenants who have been leasing for a long time seems to have stalled after strong objections from councilors who feel the scheme lacks transparency.
Management had proposed to implement a “Home ownership Scheme” of more than 100 council houses for paid up tenants who have been occupying them on lease for a successive period 15 years or more.



           Town Clerk Adolf  Gusha

The plan has however faced stiff resistance from councilors who feel the process is open to corruption after management refused to shed light on the names of the intended beneficiaries, saying it is an administrative issue that councilors had no business knowing.
“We oppose the plan on the basis that it lacks transparency because a lot of information is hidden. There is a possibility of the scheme benefitting people with connections to powerful officials and not the intended beneficiaries,” said Ward 10 Councilor Lovemore Mufamba.
“If those houses could instead be given to council employees, we would serve thousands of dollars in housing allowances and redirect the money to service delivery,” continued Mufamba.
Mayor Hubert Fidze confirmed the idea was contentious, with a lot of issues not yet ironed out.
“It’s still under discussion, we have not yet agreed on several important details,” said Fidze, echoing concerns that the scheme would be subject to manipulation and corruption if it goes ahead in its current form.
“That issue concerns us as much as we want to bring in a new valuator to determine the actual value of the houses as we are not fully satisfied with the valuation that was done,” said Fidze.
Great Zimbabwe Realtors, the original valuator, valued the houses from US$5000 to US$15000 but there are concerns the houses could have been undervalued.
Council, nonetheless, is offering steep discounts of up to 100 percent to those who rented for at least 30 years, meaning up to 20 houses would be given off free of charge.
 Town Clerk Adolf Gusha, however, denied that the scheme is facing any opposition.
“There are essentially no disagreements with regards to the scheme per se; only some details that councilors feel need to be availed to them. That will have to be handled by the committee as well as the concerns that the scheme could be abused,” said Gusha.local

Chief Neshuro applauds WFP’s PAC Programme

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Itai Muzondo

Mwenezi –Chief Neshuro of Mwenezi could not hide his joy yesterday as the World Food Programme (WFP) Secretariat donated foodstuffs and material for the Productive Asset Creation (PAC) programme and applauded the organization for bringing development to his homeland.
Speaking at an event where WFP’s chief partners, Japanese government represented by Ambassador Yoshi Tendai Hiraishi had come to witness the ongoing construction of Tsvimborume Dam being constructed under the PAC Programme, Chief Neshuro said the team has brought what they always heard of to reality.
“I am happy that development has reached my doorstep. Development had actually remained an elite tradition which only benefited town communities.
“The WFP and their partners from the Japanese government are ever welcome to my area as long as they hold such developmental projects for my people,” said the Chief.
“Besides just applauding our donor friends, a word of advice would be good to my people. Human participation is great when you are being given aid for such developmental projects and above all, we should shun corruption as you should maintain of using the resources you are given in a clear and transparent manner,” the Chief added.
Addressing people who are participating in the ongoing construction of Tsvimborume Dam, Japanese Ambabsodor to Zimbabwe, Yoshi Tendai Hiraishi said his government has injected USD1.5 million for WFP to facilitate the PAC Programme.
In supporting the WFP initiative, we have extended a grant of USD1.5 million. This programme seeks to strengthen the power of resistance of the local community to the natural disaster such as drought by helping the community to build viable assets such as this dam in collaboration with WFP, NGO Partners, in this case Mwenezi Development Training Centre,” said Hiraishi.
WFP National Director, Eddie Rowe said he was happy to implement projects appreciated by the community at large as he noted that the projects came after consultations with the locals on possible projects of their choice.
“When people appreciate the work we do like this, I even feel a sense of belonging. WFP is happy on the participation rate from the coordinating team way up to our funding partners.
“I assure you that if we continue with this spirit, Mwenezi will be with a new outlook in a period of two years’ time and as from our side, we will make sure that our footprints in Masvingo as a province are recognized and successful,” said Rowe.


From left, Mwenezi D.A Rosemery Chingwe, Japan Ambassador to Zim, Yoshi Tendai Hiraishi and WFP National Director Eddie Rowe
Meanwhile, Mwenezi district spans across agro – ecological zones four and five and experiences low annual rainfall making it subject to periodic droughts and severe dry spells during the rainy season. The ongoing project therefore aims to create, protect and rehabilitate productive assets that improve food security, income security and livelihood opportunities and buid resilience of vulnerable households to shocks.local