An unidentified man was killed in a hit and run accident by an unknown vehicle which fled soon after the accident.
Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the accident and appealed to the public if there are people whose relative was missing to notify the police.
“I confirm the accident whereby an unknown died on spot after he was hit by a car at the 270-kilometer peg along Mutare-Masvingo highway.
“We appeal to those who have a missing male relative to check with Masvingo Central Traffic. If there are people with information leading to the arrest of the driver to tell the police. Drivers are urged to drive attentively also to stop and render first aid whenever they are involved in such an accident,” said Inspector Dhewa.
On March 18, 2025 around 2100 hours a car was being driven from Mutare and upon arrival at the 270km-peg the car hit a man who was walking in the road.
The car did not stop after hitting the man.The deceased male adult sustained head injuries and died on the spot.
The body was taken to Masvingo Provincial Hospital for postmortem and investigations are still underway.
A driver and a passenger died along Tokwe-Mhandamabwe Road after the car they were traveling in failed to negotiate a curve on March 15, 2025.
Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the death of Tapiwa Chengedza (27) and the passenger who is yet to be identified and encouraged motorists to avoid speeding.
“I confirm the death of Chengedza and a passenger he was carrying who died on the spot when the car failed to negotiate a curve. I urge motorists to avoid speeding to save lives,” said Dhewa.
On March 15, at around 1430 hours Chengedza was driving a Nissan NP300 along Tokwe- Mhandamabwe road with one passenger on board. At a 43km peg along the same road, the car failed to negotiate a curve, veered off road, overturned and landed on the driver’s side.
Chengedza and the passenger died on the spot and their bodies were taken to Chivi District Hospital Mortuary for postmortem. The car’s roof was deformed, the windscreen shattered and the driver’s door was damaged.
Zimbabwe Republic Police in Masvingo has issued a prohibition order against carrying of weapons or items capable of being used as weapons for a period not exceeding three month from March 25, 2025 to June 25, 2025.
The prohibition order was issued in terms of section 4 (1) of the Maintenance of Peace and Order (MOPA) Act, Chapter 11:23 and anyone taking part in such action will face full wrath of the law.
In a statement released on March 18, 2025, the Officer Commanding Masvingo Central District, Chief Superintendent Simangaliso Dube said those found in possession of the weapons shall be found guilty and sentenced accordingly.
“The carrying in public whether openly or concealed in a public place or public thoroughfare or public display of any of the following weapons or items capable of use as weapons catapults,machetes,axes,knoberries,swords,knives and daggers. Any traditional weapon whatsoever likely to occasion public disorder or breach of the peace,” read the notice.
The prohibition order was issued following an increase in cases of assault and robbery and murder with use of such weapons prevalent.
“The prohibition notice was issued due to the following reasons there is an increase in assault and robbery where such weapons axes, knives, machetes, knobkerries, catapults or daggers are used. Violent crimes such as murder are being committed,” read parts of the statement.
The notice gives police officers power to seize such weapons from offenders.
“By virtue of this notice, any police officer is, in terms of, section 4(5) of MOPA, hereby authorized to seize without warrant, any weapon or item capable of use as a weapon, found in possession of any person in contravention of this prohibition notice.
“For the avoidance of doubt, it is declared that, in terms of section 4(4) of the MOPA, that any person who fails to comply with this prohibition notice shall be guilty of an offence and liable to a fine not exceeding level 5 or to imprisonment for a period not exceeding six months or to both such fine and such imprisonment,” reads the statement.
Police in Chiredzi arrested a 32-year-old man for stealing nine cattle on March 12, 2025.
Masvingo Provincial Police spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the arrest of Godknows Chimbudzi (32) and appealed for the public to help with information that can lead to the arrest of the other suspect who is still at large.
“I confirm the arrest of Chimbudzi for Stock theft and efforts to apprehend his accomplice are underway. We appeal for the information which may lead to the location of the other one who is on run,” said Dhewa.
On March 12 around 1500 hours Police who were on patrol in Makambe Level Cross Road intercepted Chimbudzi and his accomplice who were moving with nine cattle. They stopped and interrogated them but they ran away.
Police took the cattle and carried investigations leading to the arrest of Chimbudzi. He was taken to Chiredzi Magistrate’s court for his trial.
Despite efforts to curb stock theft through awareness campaigns and deterrent sentences, police continue to record cases of this crime.
The courts have also taken a strong stance against stock theft, imposing deterrent sentences to combat the crime. However, despite these efforts, stock theft cases continue to be recorded in different parts of the country.
Three models from Masvingo province are set to participate at Miss Ebony Zimbabwe modelling pageant on March 28, 2025 at Robbi Mupawose, Harare Agricultural Show Grounds.
The participants, Lerato Masocha (23), Margret Mangowe (25) and Tinomudaishe Makumire (23) will represent the province at the pageant that will be running under the theme “Empowering through diversity” which celebrates the tapestry of cultures and languages that make Zimbabwe unique.
In an interview with TellZim News, Miss Ebony Zimbabwe facilitator, Faith Mazana said Miss Ebony Zimbabwe’s first edition was not just a pageant or a show but a revolution poised to dismantle the legacy of colonial beauty standards and forge a pathway to economic and social justice where black women lead.
“For too long the Western beauty dominates while the African beauty is ignored. Harmful stereotypes neglect the rich diversity and inherent strength of African women and traditional pageants fail to reflect the diverse cultural and linguistic landscape of our nation.
“Miss Ebony Zimbabwe is building a platform where inner strength, cultural pride and intellectual prowess are valued above superficial appearances. It is about beauty on our terms,” said Mazana.
Mazana said the pageant was set to equip young women with necessary skills to use in the world of entrepreneurship.
“We are equipping young women with the tools they need to thrive as entrepreneurs, activists and leaders. We are fostering a sense of community and unity among women and embracing our differences as strengths,” said Mazana.
The honorary judges at the pageant will be Dr Solomon Guramatunhu, Doreen Sibanda, Gianni Bauce, Yolanda Elizabeth Chimbarami, Sharon Chingwaro and Lindiwe Noma Mtamzeli.
The performing artists at the event will be Baba Matezo &Madzimambo band, Wowrae, Mary Anibal and Rutendo Jackie while Kim Sibanda and Curtley Gwindi will be the MCs.
Masvingo District proved to be the home of chess after scooping the first position at the National Secondary Heads Masvingo Provincial tournament which was held at Pamushana High School on March 14, 2025 to select the team that will represent the province at the national tournament.
The tournament had eight districts that were competing in seven different age groups namely Under 13, 14, 15,16,17,18 and 20.
Masvingo district walked away with seven gold, three silver and six bronze medals. Chiredzi District came second with three gold medals and one silver medal with four girls and three boys namely Abiud Venge, Akon Chaora, Ignatius Mhaka winning gold medals in the Under 14, 15 and 17 respectively.
Speaking to one of the school player coaches Moses Kujinga from Temeraire High School said he was excited with the outcome and some of his players contributed to the overall position.
“I am happy that of the seven gold medals we got as a district, two came from our school and this shows the sport is growing from school level to provincial level.
“Our efforts were rewarded because my players practise a lot at school. Chess is very easy but it takes consistency, discipline and practice to win a single game especially at Provincial level,” said Kujinga.
Females category Under 17 gold medalist who was also crowned outstanding player of the tournament Rutendo Hwede who won a gold medal in the 2024 national finals Under 16 girls category said the tournament was not that tough for her.
“The competition was not tough for me though I was nervous at first knowing that my coach, school head and family had high expectations since I was the 2024 national chess gold medalist in under 16 category.
“I didn’t want to disappoint them and after playing and winning four games I relaxed my mind. Having a clean sheet of 7/7 made me feel happy,” said Hwede.
She warned against overconfidence which she said nearly costed her one game and she corrected the mistake before it was too late.
“There was a moment of overconfidence during my fifth game and that’s when I made a mistake which I later corrected. The tournament taught me that I should never be overconfident and never to underestimate any opponent at any level of the competition,” said Hwede.
Male category Under 17 gold medalist from Temeraire High in Masvingo district Ignatius Mhaka said the tournament was tough but he won at the end.
“The tournament was a bit tough but I scooped a gold medal. I finished the tournament with a score of 6,5/7, which was slightly below my expectations. I had a solid start, winning first three games against weak players.
“In the middle of the tournament, I struggled to find my rhythm, drawing one game against a strong player. The tournament was a valuable learning experience. I had no exposure of playing with strong opponents and had opportunity to test my skills in a competitive tournament,” said Mhaka.
Mucheke High School coach and Zimbabwe Chess Federation Masvingo Province Secretary General Zvishamiso Mushamainza said the tournament was stiff but the best were chosen to represent the province at national tournament and the sport proved to be inclusive as it had a learner with disability.
“The competition was stiff and the outstanding players were selected to represent Masvingo at national level where last year we had some of our players winning gold medals at such a level.
“Among our players we had Providence Ndebele from Morgenster High who is deaf and dumb. Ndebele played very well and won a bronze medal. All coaches learnt and accepted that disability does not mean inability. All students were educated on how to accommodate one another despite them having disabilities,” said Mushamainza.
“We encourage the blind, deaf, dumb and everyone to participate in chess games since chess brings all people together and has become an inclusive game. I hope those who are proceeding to the nationals will represent the province well and go to as far as international level,” she added.
The provincial tournament was a follow up of the chess district tournament which was held at Zimuto High School on February 28,2025.
My Age Zimbabwe Trust has launched the Sarudzo hotline to empower young people in Zimbabwe with critical counseling services and accurate information on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR).
My Age Communications Officer Veeslee Mhepo said the hotline was a game changer and a critical tool towards revolutionizing access to SRHR services by youths in Masvingo and beyond.
“The Sarudzo hotline is a game-changer for Zimbabwe’s youth. By providing a safe, anonymous, and accessible space for young people to discuss sensitive SRHR issues, we are bridging a critical gap in support services,” said Mhepo.
The Sarudzo hotline, meaning which means choices in Shona, is designed to be user-friendly and culturally relevant, reflecting the unique needs and dynamics of Zimbabwean youth.
She said My Age saw the need and importance of giving SRHR support hence the birth of Sarudzo hotline which she said will be manned by trained counselors who engage callers with empathy and understanding, ensuring they receive both factual information and emotional support.
“At MyAge Zimbabwe, we recognize the importance of prioritizing SRHR support for young people. The Sarudzo hotline is a vital resource that will help empower Zimbabwe’s youth to make informed choices about their bodies and lives.
“The hotline will be manned by professional counselors who would be ready to assist in any way and provide counselling services as well as important information they may need,” said Mhepo
By establishing partnerships with local health service providers, the hotline ensures seamless access to vital services, furthering the journey toward well-informed choices in SRHR.
Mhepo went on to say the hotline was set to promote making of informed decisions as to allow youths to get all information on SRHR.
“The Sarudzo hotline is a beacon of hope for Zimbabwe’s youth, affirming their right to make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive health. We are proud to support this initiative and look forward to its continued impact, she said
The hotline was launched at a time where there is rampant misinformation and stigma that often deter youths from seeking for help and would help to dismantle the barriers.
The hotline offers a safe space for individuals to discuss sensitive issues related to sexual health, family planning, and reproductive rights.
Inuka Women of Zimbabwe Trust Project Manager Shumirai Celta Chakaora said the hotline was a crucial step empowering youths by providing a confidential space to seek guidance.
“The launch of this hotline is a crucial step towards empowering youths with accurate and unbiased information on SRHR. This platform provides a safe, confidential, and accessible space for young people to seek guidance, ask questions, and access support.
This hotline is more than just a resource, it’s a lifeline for young people navigating complex issues and making informed decisions about their bodies and health,” said Chakaora.
Nomazwe Macebo from Adult Glam Divas said the hotline will break barriers for marginalized communities like youths and those with disability get to access correct information timeously.
“The development indeed came at the right time because the world has shifted to a digital age. It will help demystify myths and challenge misinformation.
“It bridges the gap of stigma, most youth are shy to go and ask for information in clinics because they fear being stigmatized, but now MyAge has brought the information directly to one’s phone because in many Zimbabwean societies, open discussions about sexuality contraception and reproductive health are considered a taboo especially for the youth,” said Macebo.
She said the hotline also advances Sustainable Development Goal 3 and 5 and help encourage responsible sexual behavior amongst youths.
“The hotline advances SDG 5 gender equality by providing youths especially young women with knowledge to make informed decisions and SDG 3 which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well being as it will improve youth SRHR outcomes.
“Access to reproductive health services is limited for young people due to geographical, financial, and social barriers, the hotline will be able to direct them to youth friendly places where they can access these services.
“The hotline encourages responsible sexual behavior and this will foster healthier relationships and more responsible attitudes towards their sexual health, it can also help the youth facing sexual violence, it can offer immediate confidential advice on how to escape or seek legal and medical support,” said Macebo.
Conscious Development for Empowerment Trust (CODET) Programs Officer Fortunate Black said the hotline was a development to help youths who were suffering in silence a chance to get help.
“Having a dedicated SRHR hotline for the youths is actually a groundbreaking move. It gives a more secure, confidential, and easily accessible platform for young people to acquire vital information, guidance, and support on sensitive topics. Many youths end up not getting help because they are afraid if they seek help their secrets will be exposed hence they suffer in silence.
”MyAge Zimbabwe’s initiative can empower youths with trustworthy information, alleviate the stigma surrounding SRHR issues, expand access to essential healthcare services and resources,” said Black.
A struggling elderly couple from Mavizhu, Mutekede Gwamanjoma Village in Masvingo is appealing for assistance to take care of their four adult children who are mentally and physically challenged. With no stable income and increasing caregiving demands, the parents are finding it difficult to provide for their four children. The children, Sakina (40), Ngonidzashe (38), Locadia (35), and Edwin (27) all have mental challenges, with three of them also being physically disabled. The fourth child, while not physically impaired, has severe speech difficulties and mental challenges. The couple, Shylet Mahwela (62) and David Mutekede (68), have been forced to stay home to care for their children, making it difficult for them to earn a living. The family desperately needs wheelchairs for three of the children to help them move around. They also need a secure fence around their home, as the children tend to wander off when left unattended. Their parents often have to search for them, which is exhausting and dangerous. In addition to mobility challenges, the family also struggles with access to clean water. The mother walks long distances to fetch water from a nearby river, and they are hoping to receive help in drilling a borehole to ease their burden. The family is appealing to well-wishers, individuals, and organizations to assist with food, assistive devices, fencing, and access to clean water. A group of well-wishers from Masvingo led by one Nyaradzo Shumba who visited the family have since started mobilizing resources to help the family. Well-wishers can contact Nyaradzo Shumba on 0777900863 or 0774110131 Or Ecocash the Mutekedes on 0775968619 – Mary Mutekede
Two men were arrested on March 9, along Masvingo-Harare and Masvingo – Mbalabala road after they were found in possession of 200kg of dagga at around 0100 hours. Masvingo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the incident to TellZim News and thanked members of the public for providing information on criminal activities in communities. “I confirm the arrest of Limbikani Mwanandi (36) and Speakmore Mhonda (39) who were found in possession of 200kg of dagga. Our officers will remain vigilant in fighting crime and we are grateful to members of the public who give us information,” said Dhewa. Sources revealed that on March 8, police in Masvingo received information that Road Link, a cross border bus, which was being driven by Mwanandi was transporting dagga. The police then pursued the information and found the bus at the junction of Masvingo-Harare and Masvingo-Mbalabala, where it had broken down. The police maintained their surveillance and at around 0100 hours, they saw Mhonda arriving at the bus driving a Nissan Caravan NV350 vehicle. Mwanandi and Mhonda were transferring the dagga to the Nissan vehicle when the police arrived. Mhonda attempted to escape but he was unsuccessful, leading to their arrest. The police recovered 17 plastic bags of dagga weighing 200kg with a street value US$22 000.
In a stellar display of speed, strength, and agility, Junior Group of Schools’ Junior Primary School (JPS) in Masvingo clinched the top spot in the elite schools’ athletic competitions held in Gweru last Friday (March14).
The school’s athletes amassed an impressive haul of 37 gold medals, 22 silver medals, and 24 bronze medals, solidifying their institution’s reputation as both an academic powerhouse and a sporting haven.
Speaking to TellZim News, Junior Group of Schools Director Noah Marima said the impressive athletic achievement was a testament to the school’s well-rounded approach to education, which emphasizes excellence in both academics and extracurricular activities.
“We are thrilled with our students’ outstanding performance in the athletic competitions. This achievement is a testament to our school’s commitment to providing a well-rounded education that fosters excellence in both academics and extracurricular activities.
“I am proud of our students, coaches, and staff who worked tirelessly to achieve this remarkable success. We will continue to nurture and support our students’ talents,” said Marima
The school sports director Jimmy Makwanda said hard work had paid off adding that sports was not only about medals but developing culture and perfecting skills that benefit leaners even after school.
“This is an incredible moment for Junior Group of Schools, and we are ecstatic about our students’ dominance in the athletic competitions. Our coaching staff and athletes have put in countless hours of hard work and dedication, and it’s wonderful to see their efforts paying off.
“We are proud to have created a culture of excellence in sports, and we will continue to push our students to reach new heights. This is not just about winning medals; it’s about building character, discipline, and teamwork which are essential life skills that will benefit our students long after they leave our school,” said Makwanda.
The competition drew participation from esteemed schools across the region, including Parkview Junior (Gweru), Paradise Junior (Kwekwe), Lingfield, Orchids both from Gweru and Mberengwa Junior.
Paradise Junior School earned the distinction of first runner-up, trailing behind Junior Group of Schools’ remarkable performance.
Junior Group of Schools has consistently produced top performers in national examinations, with a strong track record of academic excellence.
This latest achievement adds to the school’s growing list of accolades. Recently, Junior Primary School, received the Private School of the Year 2024 Award at the Sundrive Business Awards. The school’s director, also received the Businessman of the Year Award.
The school’s athletic prowess is not limited to track and field events. Four learners from Junior Primary School excelled in the national tennis tournament in Harare last year, bringing home medals and further cementing the school’s reputation as a hub for talented young athletes.
