The meal in the photo is being served to Zimbabwean construction workers by a Chinese company hired to build Units 7 and 8 of the Hwange Thermal Power Station. The meal provided in plastic is evidence that Zimbabwean workers are mistreated by Chinese companies.

? | @ZimEye pic.twitter.com/x6tha39C02

— THE TRUTH PANTHER (@TheTruthPanther) May 4, 2023

By A Correspondent- An angry mob urinatǝd on three robbers, whose luck ran out when a car they had stolen crashed into a kombi, at Chigovanyika Shopping Centre in Chitungwiza on Wednesday evening.

Four suspected robbers pounced on a man, who was closing his shop at the end of business, before speeding off in his car with his wife, who was in the vehicle.

The car then rammed into a commuter omnibus.

One witness said: “The guy was closing for the day when the robbers pounced on him as he was getting into his car.

They pushed him out of the car and fled away with the car and the day’s takings.

“He screamed and some Good Samaritans made efforts to chase after the car, with some even throwing stones.

“Then, there was someone who gave chase with his car before the car (which the robbers had stolen) rammed into a kombi and another vehicle close to Chigovanyika Shops and overturned.”

Three robbers were seriously injured while the fourth one made off with the bag, which had cash.

“The wife was not seriously injured.

“Police came and took them but vanhu vanga vachingovarova zvakadaro, vamwe vachivaitira weti.

“One of the suspected robbers is one Madzibaba Levy, ane sowe in St Mary’s.”

Another witness said:

“The owner plies his trade at Huruyadzo Shopping Centre and, on this day, he was logging off for the day when the suspects jumped into his car.

“They sped towards Chigovanyika Shopping Centre and during their escape the driver lost control before the car overturned.”

A third witness said.

“Team iri rakangopinda mumota fast and he was screaming seeking help. So they drove towards a curve and the one who was driving rammed into an oncoming car.

“The car then overturned before landing on its roof.

When we got to the scene, one of the suspected robbers had escaped from the scene.”

The witnesses added: “These guys were four and one escaped. The owner of the car was injured after the accident.”

— HMetro

 By A Correspondent- A man who assaulted his wife after he found her in the company of a prophet spraying muthi at their house has appeared in court.

Nicholas Khuphe (51) appeared before Western Commonage Court magistrate Shepherd Mnjanja charged with physical abuse.

He pleaded guilty and was remanded out of custody to 9 May for sentencing.

The court heard that Khuphe from Old Magwegwe suburb came home unexpectedly and was sh0cked to find his wife Knowledge Khuphe (48) in the company of a man only identified as Bonani and was told he was a prophet.

The court heard Nicholas was surprised to find Bonani spraying muthi in the sitting room while his wife was seated on a sofa and that did not go down well with him.

It is said he fumed at his wife before he struck her with a knobkerrie all over her body leading her to sustain a fractured arm.

Knowledge reported the incident to the police leading to the arrest of her husband.

By A Correspondent- Friends of Job Sikhala Trust yesterday said the conviction of Zengeza West legislator, Job Sikhala (Citizens Coalition for Change), was unfortunate because of his health condition.

Sikhala was convicted on a charge of obstructing the course of justice and fined US$600, becoming the third opposition figure to be convicted in less than a month.

He has been in pre-trial detention since June last year.

Friends of Job Sikhala Trust spokesperson Emmanuel Zellers Gumbo told NewsDay that Sikhala’s conviction was unfortunate.

“Though his health is still unstable, he still suffers from abdominal pain, his fighting spirit is still alive, his conviction to fight will never be deterred by imprisonment nor by any form of persecution,” Gumbo said.

He said attempts by the legislator to consult a doctor of his choice reportedly fell flat after he was refused the privilege.

“The last time he attempted to consult a doctor of his choice, they denied him of that,” he said.

“The conviction did not come as a surprise, we saw it coming. The conviction confirmed one thing — that this is a clear case of political persecution.

Job Sikhala was arrested for demanding justice for the callously murdered Moreblessing Ali. Where on earth will a whole magistrate mistake such for obstruction of justice?”

In a heart-wrenching letter in January this year, Sikhala revealed that his health had severely deteriorated amid fears that he could have developed cancer of the colon.

This saw his close allies petitioning President Emmerson Mnangagwa to intervene to ensure the release of the legislator on medical grounds.

Government spokespersons, however, said Mnangagwa could not intervene in respect of the separation of powers.

Sikhala faces two other separate charges.

He faces a charge of incitement to violence following the violence that occurred at the funeral of Ali.

He is charged alongside fellow legislator Godfrey Sithole and 14 other Nyatsime residents.

Sikhala faces another charge of disorderly conduct. He insists that he is a political prisoner.

“Over 10 months, I have been kept from my people and from carrying out my duties and even though I have been kept in prison confinement, I know (South Africa’s anti-apartheid stalwart) Nelson Mandela was kept in prison, but his spirit was never broken and never will be mine,” he said in his mitigation before sentencing on Wednesday.-Newsday

By A Correspondent- In a horrifying incident four armed robbers raided a farm on the outskirts of Bulawayo and robbed workers of various items including cash before allegedly rɑp!ng five women while other farm workers and their children were watching.

Two of the suspects Luckson Moyo (22) and Sibongisani Ndlovu (40) have since been arrested while the two only identified as Muzi and Mbekezeli are reportedly on the run.

The four robbers who were armed with machetes, axes, and knives raided a farm shortly after 9pm last week on Saturday.

A source at the farm who spoke to B-Metro on condition of anonymity said the four robbers first went to a compound which is situated next to the shop in the farm.

They found a couple and their children sitting around a fireplace. They ordered them to lie on the ground, and the startled family complied. The robbers then assaulted them while demanding money.

After that two of the robbers took turns to rɑpǝ the woman while her husband and children were watching,” said the source.

After that two robbers remained guarding the family while the other two went to a sports bar where they found six people who were drinking beer while seated outside the closed bar and demanded cash.

As they demanded cash they threatened to kill them but they told them that they had nothing. They then demanded keys to the bar and shop and they again told them that they don’t have them.

“That, however, did not go down well with robbers who then ordered them to lie on the ground and assaulted them. After that they rɑpǝd three other women,” said the source.

The source added: “They robbed them of their cellphones, three handbags and US$45 before they headed to another compound where they found a couple slǝǝping and woke them up.”

“They demanded cash and they were given US$45 and after that they dragged the woman behind the compound where they rɑpǝd her at knife point.”

It is reported that the robbers went to three other compounds where they ransacked the rooms looking for cash.

“They took several items including speaker boxes, cash and handbags before they fled,” said the source.

The farm owner reported the incident to the police before he rushed the victims to hospital for treatment.

Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Abednico Ncube confirmed the incident and said: “We urge farmers to beef their security at their farm compounds.

“We would like to applaud members of the public for supplying police with information which led to the arrest of two robbers and we appeal for information that might lead to the whereabouts of the robbers who are still at large.”

— BMetro

By A Correspondent- Former Zimbabwe national football player, Tinashe Nengomasha’s marriage to Samantha Mtukudzi has been ruled as officially over by the High Court. 

The two were involved in a nasty break-up, with the court process having been initiated by Samantha, daughter of the late musician, Oliver Mtukudzi.

Samantha had demanded custody of their two children.

She then amended her summons in 2021 and asked the court to award her custody of the couple’s Maltese dog called Alvin Jazz, which they acquired when they were still staying together.

Nengomasha challenged the divorce, but High Court judge Justice Neville WaMambo ruled that there were no chances of the two reconciling.

A full judgment is not yet available.

“Whereupon, after reading documents filed of record and hearing counsel who applies for a decree of divorce and other relief on the grounds of irretrievable breakdown under the provisions of section 5 of the Matrimonial Causes Act (Chapter 5:13), it is ordered that the divorce order dated April 20, 2023 be and is hereby amended as follows: “A decree of divorce be and is hereby granted,” the judge ruled.

Nengomasha was granted custody of the minor children.

By A Correspondent- Zanu-PF is dangling title deeds to almost 1,3 million people before this year’s harmonised elections in what analysts say is a desperate campaign gimmick.

Zanu-PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa told NewsDay yesterday that they want to shut the door on land barons.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa recently issued 265 deeds of grant to Epworth residents, a year after making the promise.

“We now have a system that creates title deeds. We are targeting to issue a prospective 1,3 million title deeds before elections. The houses have been built by developers and owners of the properties and they have been physically identified,” Mutsvangwa said.

“What is only left with is the regulatory framework which is the most painstaking process because we can’t make a mistake with a title deed because it is a document which can be passed from a generation to a generation and people can now apply for loans at the banks because of the title deeds.

“Issuing the title deeds to the Zimbabweans is a blow to the land barons because they are the ones who were causing confusion in the parcelling of land and causing evictions.”

Political analyst Rejoice Ngwenya cast doubt on Zanu-PF delivering on the promise.

“We have seen these promises before elections,” Ngwenya said.

“However, as long as the surveying, boundaries are done and properties don’t violate environmental and other development laws, it can be done if they are genuine.”

Zanu-PF has been accused of making empty promises towards elections.

By A Correspondent | 44 year old Siqokoqela, the son of the late President Robert Mugabe’s successor, former vice president Phelekezela Mphoko, was given an effective 20-year sentence for raping a family member.

Bulawayo Regional Magistrate Elijah Singano stated that Mphoko had three times pushed himself on the little victim, threatening her with death.

Ruled the magistrate: “Rape remains an extremely serious offence and offenders must be punished. It violates and demoralises the victim. The criminal law and codification act stipulates that for an offence such as rape the courts should issue a sentence of life imprisonment or less,” Singano said.

He added: ““The accused used threats of death on the victim if she ever disclosed the matter to anyone. The complainant stayed at the accused’s house and looked up to him as a father and so he violated the trust of the complainant and the family at large.

“The court has to act in the best interest of the child. Many of the victim’s constitutional rights have been violated such as the right to privacy, good health, education, and dignity, I could go on and on. All these have long lasting effects on the minor,” he said.

“Lawfully each count of rape is equal to 10 years in prison and sentencing the accused 30 years for each count will be on the harsh side considering that it is the same victim and in a short space of time. The court is inclined to impose 20 years of imprisonment for all three counts and unfortunately, the court cannot further suspend this sentence as it will be taken for belittling this serious crime.

“The accused is therefore sentenced to an effective 20 years in prison for count one to three and two months for count four which will be served concurrently with the previous counts,” Magistrate Singano ruled.

Mphoko’s lawyer Zibusiso Ncube mitigated saying his client should be given a lesser sentence as he has a medical condition.

“The accused is aged 44 years and lives with a medical condition that needs him to be constantly visiting the doctor. He has a young family with the eldest biological daughter aged 13 followed by a boy aged 12 and his adopted daughter Sinikiwe Masiye.

“The accused has an immovable property which includes a house in Hillside suburb, Greydot communication company and five cars. When it comes to the rape charges your worship it will be unjust that the court looks at all three counts separately considering their proximity and that there are no specific dates. It is therefore our prayer that these counts be taken as one when it comes to sentencing,” he argued.

Tinashe Sambiri|The new CCC government will not dismiss soldiers and police officers.

This was said by the CCC leader President Nelson Chamisa in Harare on Monday.

The CCC leader also bemoaned the lack of political tolerance in the country.

“Citizens bear in mind that we build a country through love and unity.

Even those whom we do not agree with must be tolerated. Zimbabwe is one. Let’s learn to accompany each other with our ears even when we do not sink with our hearts. Tolerance must be practiced by all citizens.

When our new government comes into power. We will not dismiss our police, soldiers and members of the Central Intelligence Organisation and those who work for government,” said President Chamisa.

By- A Beitbridge couple is now pursuing divorce after the wife was caught pants down in a local lodge by her husband.

The couple, whose altercation has become one of the week’s biggest talking points, had a beautiful white wedding and a beautiful young family.

Tinashe Kandawasvika, a clearing agent in the border town, is the man whose video, savagely assaulting his wife after finding her in a lodge, has gone viral.
H-Metro has even nicknamed him the “Butcher of Beitbridge.”
As their drama continues to unfold, we have reliably been informed that the woman’s actions could have been driven by an act of ‘‘revenge cheating’’.
Tinashe and his wife, Primrose Kandawasvika, have been together for about 10 years.
A close source said an urgent family meeting was convened at the couple’s house in Limpopo View, Beitbridge, on Monday.
The estranged couple mutually decided to pursue their divorce.
The source said this was the second time Primrose was allegedly caught cheating after her other affair was discovered in December last year.
Tinashe went on to forgive Primrose only to be tipped off by her friends on Sunday that she was meeting her lover at a lodge.
The unidentified lover, who was also brutally assaulted by Tinashe and his friend, had travelled to Beitbridge to see Primrose.
The couple married in 2013 and have three children.
They were in the process of a separation, according to our sources, after Tinashe was also accused of allegedly having an extra-marital affair.
“The situation is tense right now, both Tinashe and Primrose’s relatives were called in on Monday and they had a long meeting that lasted deep into the night.
“The couple has decided to divorce each to avoid further emotional damage,” said the source.
In the video, Tinashe pounds his wife, using fists, like he was in a boxing match.
He keeps on expressing his anger and shock as to why his wife was in a lodge with another man.
He allegedly claims he sent his wife to school, got her a job as a cashier at a company in Beitbridge and even registered some of his assets in her name.
Reaction towards Tinashe’s actions has been swift with many Zimbabweans, irked by the violence, calling for his imprisonment.
Many have concluded he is a monster and he wasn’t supposed to treat another human being like that even despite the emotional circumstances.
They feel the couple should go separate ways and their wish appears to have been granted.
-H Metro

By -The son of the former Vice-President Phelekezela Mphoko, Siqokoqela, has been sentenced to 20 years in jail for three counts of rape.

Siqokoqela was also slapped with a concurrent two months for contravening a court order.
Mphoko appeared before Bulawayo Regional Magistrate Elijah Singano, who ruled that many of the victim’s constitutional rights were violated.
“Rape remains an extremely serious offence and offenders must be punished. It violates and demoralises the victim. The criminal law and codification act stipulates that for an offence such as rape the courts should issue a sentence of life imprisonment or less,” Singano said while delivering his ruling.
He said that the age difference between Mphoko and the victim is three times hence showing the low morality of the former.
“The accused used threats of death on the victim if she ever disclosed the matter to anyone. The complainant stayed at the accused’s house and looked up to him as a father, and so he violated the trust of the complainant and the family at large.
“The court has to act in the best interest of the child. Many of the victim’s constitutional rights have been violated such as the right to privacy, good health, education, and dignity, I could go on and on. All these have long lasting effects on the minor,” he said.
Singano agreed with the defence mitigation that all three counts should be treated as one during sentencing.
“Lawfully, each count of rape is equal to 10 years in prison and sentencing the accused 30 years for each count will be on the harsh side considering that it is the same victim and in a short space of time. The court is inclined to impose 20 years of imprisonment for all three counts, and unfortunately, the court cannot further suspend this sentence as it will be taken for belittling this serious crime.
“The accused is therefore sentenced to an effective 20 years in prison for count one to three and two months for count four which will be served concurrently with the previous counts,” Singano ruled.
In mitigation, Mphoko’s lawyer Zibusiso Ncube had argued that his client should be given a lesser sentence as he has a medical condition.
“The accused is aged 44 years and lives with a medical condition that needs him to be constantly visiting the doctor. He has a young family with the eldest biological daughter, aged 13 followed by a boy aged 12 and his adopted daughter Sinikiwe Masiye.
“The accused has an immovable property which includes a house in Hillside suburb, Greydot communication company and five cars. When it comes to the rape charges your worship it will be unjust that the court looks at all three counts separately considering their proximity and that there are no specific dates. It is therefore our prayer that these counts be taken as one when it comes to sentencing,” he argued.
Prosecuting Concilia Ncube said the victim is likely to face psychological effects for all her life.
“The offence that the accused person is facing is very serious and has psychological consequences on the complainant. She will have to live with the trauma of what happened for the rest of her life. The accused also violated the complainants’ right to privacy as enshrined in the constitution,” she said.
-CITE

Chipinge South Zanu PF primary election winner, Robert Nyemudzo has been sentenced to two years in prison for illicit beer brewing. Magistrate Frank Mkwananzi suspended six months and Nyemudzo will serve an effective 18 months in prison. pic.twitter.com/lQMcXJILfb

— The Mirror Masvingo (@TheMirrorMsv) May 4, 2023

Tinashe Sambiri|The new CCC government will not dismiss soldiers and police officers.

This was said by the CCC leader President Nelson Chamisa in Harare on Monday.

The CCC leader also bemoaned the lack of political tolerance in the country.

“Citizens bear in mind that we build a country through love and unity.

Even those whom we do not agree with must be tolerated. Zimbabwe is one. Let’s learn to accompany each other with our ears even when we do not sink with our hearts. Tolerance must be practiced by all citizens.

When our new government comes into power. We will not dismiss our police, soldiers and members of the Central Intelligence Organisation and those who work for government,” said President Chamisa.

By A Correspondent- Gold miner Pedzisai “Scott” Sakupwanya’s Better Brands company reportedly ignored local traditional beliefs which led to several deaths of artisanal miners at his Redwing Mine in Manicaland province’s Penhalonga area, NewsDay has learnt.

Chief James Kurauone Mutasa who led a traditional cleansing ceremony at the mine on Sunday said they had to intervene to appease the spirits of artisanal miners who perished at the mine. He said they were worried over the recurrence of fatal accidents which they linked to the spirits of dead miners.

The ritual ceremony was attended by several Zanu-PF top officials, artisanal miners and Better Brands top officials led by its general manager, Cuthbert Chitima, among other stakeholders.

“It’s important (ritual ceremony) so that we cannot have similar incidences,” said Chief Mutasa, speaking on behalf of other traditional leaders.

“Redwing Mine has been running over the years for at least a century and there was business takeover, but I think those who previously operated at the mine did not remind the new owners of the traditional ceremonies we were used to doing and this is where the problem was.

When there was a takeover, we were overlooked as traditional leaders because there were some traditional ceremonies we carried at a certain time, but I think this has been addressed after our ceremony.”

Civic groups operating in Manicaland have raised concern over the number of deaths recorded at the mine.

Early this year, government halted operations at the mine after several deaths, but it was reopened recently.

During its closure, the company was accused of engaging in secret mining activities by civic groups

“It’s not an issue of Better Brands alone because there are some illegal miners who would come to the mine at midnight and do some mining. We also have some traditional wrangles, so it was also difficult,” said Chief Mutasa.

“Miners should also take their personal security seriously by wearing protective clothing.”

By A Correspondent- Two domestic workers at a farm in Headlands allegedly stole a cash stash of US$17 090 from their employer and vanished from their workstation.

The incident allegedly happened in January 2023 at Mutunhu Farm in Headlands.

The long arm of law finally caught up with Meeting Phiri, who was employed as a farm gardener.

Police are hunting for Martha Kasasa, an accomplice in the matter, who is now a fugitive from justice.

Phiri, who was a self-actor, did not waste the court’s time when he appeared before Rusape magistrate, Ms Annie Ndiraya, and pleaded guilty.

Ms Ndiraya slapped him with a six-year jail term.

She set aside 18 months on condition of good behaviour.

Another 24 months were further suspended on condition that he restitutes Mr John Winskill his money.

Prosecutor, Mr Marlon Makamba told the court that Phiri worked in cahoots with Kasasa and stole the money during Mr Winskill’s absence.

Phiri was employed by the complainant as a gardener, and on January 30, 2023 at around 6am, the complainant put US$17 090 in a plastic bag and placed it under his vehicle seat. He visited the fields, leaving the vehicle keys in a drawer in the lounge.

“The accused person and Kasasa, who was employed as a maid, reported for work as usual. Martha picked the keys from the drawer and unlocked the car. The two searched the vehicle and found the US$17 090 stashed under the vehicle seat.

“They wrapped the money with a java cloth and went away. They shared the money in Harare. Phiri took US$10 500 while Kasasa took the remainder,” said Mr Makamba.

Mr Winskill returned from the fields around 11am and found the accused persons gone.

After checking and failing to locate them, the complainant became suspicious and went to check for his money in the vehicle.

He discovered that the money had been stolen.

He then made a report to the police, leading to Phiri’s arrest.

— Manica Post

By A Correspondent- Matabeleland North province is expected to receive eight borehole drilling rigs as part of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s efforts to curb water shortages in the region, Provincial Affairs and Devolution minister Richard Moyo has revealed.

Moyo told Southern Eye that three rigs had already been delivered to the province.

“So far, I am only aware of three that have been channelled to two districts in Matebeleland North. Two have been disbursed to Lupane district and another one is in Umguza district,” Moyo said.

“I haven’t got much detail, but tomorrow (today), I am scheduled to meet with the head of Zimbabwe National Water Authority (Zinwa) for further information concerning that.”

He said drilling in Lupane was already underway.

“I don’t know about Umguza, but in Lupane they have already started the drilling process. I am waiting to hear more on that issue during my meeting with the head,” Moyo said.

Moyo recently revealed that Mnangagwa had embarked on a huge project to curb the water crisis in Zimbabwe. The project includes acquisition of borehole drilling rigs to increase the number of boreholes in communities.

“The President bought 80 rigs for the whole country to drill water through Zinwa. So in Matabeleland North we are going to receive eight rigs,” he said.

The 80 rigs will reportedly be equitably distributed throughout the country’s provinces.

By A Correspondent- An investigating officer in the case of four Premier Service Medical Aid Society (PSMAS) bosses who are facing allegations of stealing US$702 386 from their employer has equated their crime to an act of terrorism.

Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (Zacc) officer Erick Chacha made the claims while opposing bail to Farai Muchena (54) (chief executive officer), Victor Chaipa (49) (group strategy and performance executive), Cosmas Mukwesha (50) (group secretary) and performance manager Polite Mugwagwa (41).

“I equate what they did as a terrorist attack to the country. We have facts against the accused persons and what they did has a negative impact on our beloved country,” Chacha told the court yesterday.

Harare regional magistrate Stanford Mambanje deferred the matter to Friday for ruling.

The court heard that sometime in 2020, the PSMAS board passed a resolution to venture into buying and selling of gold.

It was further resolved that staff members from its procurement department were to act as buyers and agents for buying the gold on behalf of PSMAS.

On February 18, 2021, PSMAS, acting on the board resolution, handed over these projects of gold buying, cannabis growing and micro finance business to the Premier Service Holding Company to enable them to focus on their core business of health insurance.

On July 13 2021, Muchena sent a memo to the complainant’s principal officer requesting funding for the gold project.It is the State’s case that the funding amounted to US$237 794, with US$108 674 as pre-trading funding.

Muchena later advised PSMAS about the formation of a company styled Claydust solely for the buying and selling of gold to Fidelity Printers and Refiners.

In response, the complainant disposed of its ZB Bank shares totalling 659 643 and valued at US$38 000 to fund the gold project.

It is alleged that the accused persons, however, diverted from the initially agreed position of using the complainant’s procurement team in buying the gold on behalf of the society.

The court heard that instead, the accused persons engaged 18 private agencies unknown to the PSMAS for gold buying.

The audit uncovered that the accused persons received and converted all the money realised from the sale of gold to Fidelity Printers totalling US$702 386,80 to their own use.

Meanwhile, two of their accomplices Cecilia Alexander and Wellington Tutisa started their bail application yesterday.

By A Correspondent- Parents and guardians have been warned to brace for tough times ahead of schools opening on Monday next week over demands for exclusive fees payments in United States dollars and skyrocketing prices of uniforms.

A snap survey by NewsDay showed that some retailers were selling uniforms and other school consumables exclusively in United States dollars, while others had set limits for local currency payments.

Some boarding schools are also demanding school fees in United States dollars at a time the majority of the workers are earning in local currency.

The local currency was trading at $2 700 for US$1 yesterday at the parallel market, against $1 070 on the official market.

Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions secretary-general Japhet Moyo said workers had no capacity to meet the demands by schools.

“It is going to be difficult for the parents and guardians,” Moyo said.

“We are likely to see a rise in psychological-related problems. They can’t afford sending children to school.

“Many will go to loan sharks, who will wipe out all their earnings.”

Addressing a post-Cabinet media briefing on Tuesday, Information minister Monica Mutsvangwa said government had put in place measures to ensure the smooth reopening of schools.

Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe secretary-general Raymond Majongwe said this was not possible.

“The holiday started and ended with the ministry spewing mindless propaganda and threats of arrests against teachers doing lessons in their own time and spaces,” Majongwe said.

“Teachers are disgruntled about their low pay, rising prices and the unwillingness of government to treat them fairly by giving them the same increment it gave the security forces.”

Zimbabwe National Union of School Heads secretary-general Munyaradzi Majoni said he was not aware of any measures taken by government to ensure the smooth reopening of schools.

“We still have contentious issues related to extremely low salaries for workers in the education sector,” Majoni said.

“We still have school fees assistance, which comes late and using a model which all the unions rejected … Our members are not too sure of what is being referred to here.”

Zimbabwe Teachers Association secretary-general Goodwill Taderera said schools would be opened, but learning was not guaranteed.

“Measures for smooth reopening of school have to encompass all the key stakeholders,” Taderera said.

“We need sustainable measures for all people who ensure that the learners can attend school without disruptions.”

By A Correspondent- South African actress and reality television star Khanyi Mbau has broken up with her Zimbabwean boyfriend, Kudzai Mushonga, according to reports.

Khanyi Mbau and Kudzi have been in the spotlight for their lavish lifestyle and dramatic relationship.

The couple met in 2016 at a campaign meeting and started dating in 2019. They went public with their relationship in February 2021 when Khanyi posted a picture of herself in Kudzi’s car on Instagram.

The couple have been living a luxurious life in Dubai, where they have been spoiling each other with expensive gifts, such as cars, diamonds and designer clothes. Khanyi even tattooed Kudzi’s name on her thigh, and he tattooed hers on his chest.

The couple made headlines in August 2021 when Khanyi left Kudzi in Dubai without telling him and flew back to South Africa.

Kudzi claimed she was missing and pleaded with her to return on social media. He later apologised for the reason she left and said he still loved her.

An anonymous Instagram user sent a DM to Maphephandaba, revealing that the relationship between the two lovebirds has finally crashed. The source said:

“It looks like Khanyi and Kudzi have broken up, and Madam is keeping it on the low. Kudzi is back on the streets living his best life without her. Rumour says she blocked him and moved back to SA hustling, and the lifestyle is not even there.

“Check Khanyi’s bio. She even deleted the Zimbabwean flag but kept the Dubai flag still lol. But a close source told me they are done done, and Kudzi is back doing hookups.”

Khanyi Mbau and Kudzai Mushonga are yet to react to the allegations that they have gone their separate ways.

By- One of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga’s state security officers who accompanied him to South Africa to seek medication in 2019 has denied seeing his former wife, Mary Mubaiwa’s attempting to kill him.

Constantino Chiwenga alleges that Marry tried to kill him by unplugging the hospital life support system and attempting to sneak him out of the ward.

The trial in which Marry is facing attempted murder charges continued yesterday with the third security officer concluding his testimony.

Mr Andrew Mugari, who was one of the security officers who accompanied Vice President Chiwenga to South Africa to seek medication in 2019, appeared before regional magistrate Ms Feresi Chakanyuka.
Prosecutor Mr Lancelot Mutsokoti yesterday cross-examined Mr Mugari who maintained the testimony that he gave during the last trial when he was being cross-examined by Mubaiwa’s lawyer Ms Beatrice Mtetwa.
Mr Mugari said he did not see who removed the tubes from the VP’s body and all he knew was that they were just the two of them, Mubaiwa and the VP in the ward, so they were the only ones who knew who removed the tubes.
He said he helped VP Chiwenga back to his bed and called a nurse who came and reattached the tubes.
Mr Mugari said he saw some blood stains under Vice President’s bed and on the right side of the t-shirt that he was wearing and managed to take a photograph of the stained t-shirt.
The trial continues on May 18, as the State intends to summon the fourth witness Major Nyoni. Herald

By A Correspondent- A woman in Glen Norah is thanking the heavens for her keen sense of smell after it saved her from drinking a lethal concoction.

Her 18-year-old housemaid, Nyaradzo Gosha, had laced her drink with poison in a fit of anger after being denied permission to meet her sister.

The police have arrested and charged Gosha with the attempted murder of her employer, Konai Muzhangiri, who is 37 years old.

Assistant Inspector Webster Dzvova, the Harare provincial deputy police spokesperson, confirmed the arrest and shared the circumstances of the case with H-Metro.

According to Dzvova, the complainant had instructed her 5-year-old daughter to prepare a glass of Mazoe Orange Crush for her on April 28 at around 7 pm.

Upon receiving the drink, the complainant detected a pungent odour emanating from it, which raised a red flag. She questioned Gosha about the odour, and she confessed to adding rat poison, baking yeast, jungle oats, and Fenu Greek seeds to the 2-litre drink.

Gosha’s motive was to eliminate her employer since she had denied her the opportunity to go out before her sister’s arrival to pick her up.

“Circumstances were that the accused is the complainant’s housemaid. On April 28, at around 1900 hours, the complainant asked her 5-year-old daughter to prepare a Mazoe Orange crush drink for her. She filled the glass with undiluted Mazoe and gave it to the complainant. Complainant sensed a poisonous smell from the Mazoe drink. She asked the accused person where the smell was coming from and accused confessed that she had added rat poison, baking yeast, jungle oats, and Fenu greek seeds into the 2-litre Mazoe drink. The accused person was reported to have told complainant that she had done this in order to get rid of her since she was refusing to give her a chance to go out before the arrival of her sister who was coming to collect her,” Ass-Insp Dzvova told H-Metro.

By- Former Public Service minister Petronella Kagonye has completed her 16-month jail term for theft of trust property.
Her lawyer Rungano Mahuni confirmed this to a local private daily this week.

Kagonye was jailed in June 2022 for having converted laptops donated by the Postal and Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz) to personal use during her time in the office.

The laptops were meant to support rural schools under the e-learning project.
She was sentenced to three years in jail, but 12 months were suspended on condition of good behaviour.
A further eight months were suspended on condition that she reimburses Postal & Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe US$10 000, leaving her with an effective 16-month jail term.
The court took into account the fact that she committed the offence while she was the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare.
The court said one of her key result areas was to enhance social protection of vulnerable groups in the country, but she acted in the contrary.
Kagonye never rested after she was jailed complaining that her sentence was harsh and excessive.
She filed several applications which were all turned down by the High Court.
Her last appeal in October last year was dismissed by judges of appeal, Justices Rodgers Manyangadze and Benjamin Chikowero.
“The sentence does not shock us. If anything, it appears to err on the side of leniency. But that is beside the point,” said the judges.
They said Kagonye was the best person to have appreciated the need to take the laptops to rural schools as a way of removing some of the barriers to accessing education.
-Newsday

By A Correspondent- Aleck Masomera (57) was convicted of raping an 11-year-old neighbour’s daughter after a full trial by Harare regional magistrate Mrs Letwin Rwodzi.

The State alleged that the accused proposed love to the complainant, but the girl rebuffed the advances. On the next day, the complainant went to the accused’s place and the accused allegedly raped her.

The court heard that on an unknown date but during the month of July 2022, and during the day the complainant enrolled with the accused for extra lessons.

It was the State’s case that the accused then started proposing love to the complainant but the girl rebutted the advances.

On the day in question the complainant went home after extra lessons and her grandmother asked her she had finished her assignments and she told her that she had not and her grandmother ordered her to go and finish the assignments.

The following day the complainant went to the accused’s place again.

It was alleged that the accused entered his bedroom and called the complainant who complied and sat on the bed next to him.

It was alleged that the accused then raped the girl.

By A Correspondent- The leader of Johanne the Fifth of Africa, Madzibaba Andby Makururu, has cautioned churches against exaggerating the number of congregants who will vote for President Emmerson Mnangagwa in the upcoming elections.

His remarks come after VaPostori for Economic Development (VaPostori4ED) claimed they would mobilize over two million members to vote for President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Makururu made these comments while addressing his followers at Hauna Growth Point in Manicaland province during his tour to mobilize support for the ruling ZANU PF party. He told his followers:

I have been in Masvingo and Harare and l know the number of people who are going to vote. As bishops, we need to support our President Emmerson Mnangagwa and we should show him by voting in our numbers.

I know there might be some people who think I want resources from the government, I have not begged for resources because I want to show love to our President. I am going around the country using my own resources.

I am encouraging churches not to lie to President Emmerson Mnangagwa on the number of people who are going to vote for Zanu PF. It’s not good at all, but I am happy with churches that are campaigning for the President Mnangagwa.

Andby Makururu, who met with President Emmerson Mnangagwa at State House recently, has predicted a landslide victory for the ruling Zanu PF party in the upcoming elections.

Religion, particularly Christianity, has a significant influence on the political landscape in Zimbabwe, and churches have played a role in shaping the country’s direction since the colonial era. However, the relationship between the church and politics has been complicated, with accusations of partisanship and concerns about religious leaders holding political positions.

The political climate is heating up as Mnangagwa faces tough competition from his opponent in the 2018 elections, Nelson Chamisa, the leader of Citizens Coalitions for Change.

By A Correspondent- A 45 year-old man from Bulawayo was shot in the stomach after answering the door for a stranger who had knocked at his house in the Pumula South area.
The shooter ran away when the victim yelled for aid, therefore police have not yet determined a specific reason for the shooting.

Inspector Abednico Ncube, a police spokesperson for Bulawayo, verified the shooting, which took place on May 2 at around 7 PM.

He stated that a manhunt has been launched by the police to find the shooter and made a plea for anyone who may know the shooter to get in touch with their local police station.

‘’Police in Bulawayo are appealing for information that may lead to the arrest of a medium-built man who shot a 45-year-old man from Pumula South. Circumstances are that on the 2nd day of May 2023 at around 1910 hours, the complainant was at his place of residence inside the house when the accused person who is medium built, wearing a golf T-shirt and khaki trousers knocked at the sitting room door and the complainant attended to him. The accused asked the complainant for a room to rent but the complainant told him that there was no room to rent,’’ said Insp Ncube.

He said the suspect lost his temper, pulled out a gun and shot the victim in the stomach.

Insp Ncube warned members of the public against opening doors for strangers.

Former Cabinet minister Petronella Kagonye has completed her 16-month jail term for theft of trust property, her lawyer Rungano Mahuni confirmed yesterday.

Kagonye was jailed in June 2022 for having converted laptops donated by the Postal and Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz) to personal use during her time in office.

The laptops were meant to support rural schools under the e-learning project.

She was sentenced to three years in jail, but 12 months were suspended on condition of good behaviour.

A further eight months were suspended on condition that she reimburses Postal & Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe US$10 000, leaving her with an effective 16-month jail term.

The court took into account the fact that she committed the offence while she was the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare.

The court said one of her key result areas was to enhance social protection of vulnerable groups in the country, but she acted in the contrary.

Kagonye never rested after she was jailed complaining that her sentence was harsh and excessive.

She filed several applications which were all turned down by the High Court.

Her last appeal in October last year was dismissed by judges of appeal, Justices Rodgers Manyangadze and Benjamin Chikowero.

“The sentence does not shock us. If anything, it appears to err on the side of leniency. But that is beside the point,” said the judges.

They said Kagonye was the best person to have appreciated the need to take the laptops to rural schools as a way of removing some of the barriers to accessing education.

-Newsday

Cde Bona, Chikore don’t own land in Carrick Creagh‼️

A private land development company, Arosume Property Development (Pvt) Ltd, has said that the stands totalling 213 794 square metres in Carrick Creagh and listed in divorce papers as belonging to cde Bona Mugabe or..
1/3 pic.twitter.com/U4gGEIbFdK

— ?? ZANU PF PATRIOTS ?? (@zanupf_patriots) May 3, 2023

..Simba Chikore, or both, have had their title deeds cancelled & have reverted to State land.

The company said the Carrick Creagh stands listed by Chikore in his response to Ms Mugabe’s divorce petition had belonged to 3 companies, with Ms Mugabe listed as a director in 2,..
2/3 pic.twitter.com/KSzl5pKVjS

— ?? ZANU PF PATRIOTS ?? (@zanupf_patriots) May 3, 2023

..but these title deeds were cancelled at the beginning of February and the land reverted to State ownership and were not available for distribution to either party in any divorce settlement.
3/3 pic.twitter.com/yQgPbP3DBt

— ?? ZANU PF PATRIOTS ?? (@zanupf_patriots) May 3, 2023

Cde Bona, Chikore don’t own land in Carrick Creagh‼️

A private land development company, Arosume Property Development (Pvt) Ltd, has said that the stands totalling 213 794 square metres in Carrick Creagh and listed in divorce papers as belonging to cde Bona Mugabe or..
1/3 pic.twitter.com/U4gGEIbFdK

— ?? ZANU PF PATRIOTS ?? (@zanupf_patriots) May 3, 2023

..Simba Chikore, or both, have had their title deeds cancelled & have reverted to State land.

The company said the Carrick Creagh stands listed by Chikore in his response to Ms Mugabe’s divorce petition had belonged to 3 companies, with Ms Mugabe listed as a director in 2,..
2/3 pic.twitter.com/KSzl5pKVjS

— ?? ZANU PF PATRIOTS ?? (@zanupf_patriots) May 3, 2023

..but these title deeds were cancelled at the beginning of February and the land reverted to State ownership and were not available for distribution to either party in any divorce settlement.
3/3 pic.twitter.com/yQgPbP3DBt

— ?? ZANU PF PATRIOTS ?? (@zanupf_patriots) May 3, 2023

[LATER ON] #FullView @schikanza will be discussing what the conviction of a popular opposition politician means for Zimbabwe's upcoming elections. #SABCNews pic.twitter.com/OWMxRo4WSG

— SABCNews_Full View (@SABCFullView) May 3, 2023

By- A Harare magistrate Mrs Marehwanazvo Gofa, has CCC deputy chair Job Sikhala to six months or a US$600 fine on charges of obstructing the course of justice.

Magistrate Gofa sentenced Sikhala after finding him guilty of the charge.

In her ruling, she said the State was able to prove that Sikhala was the one who authored and posted the video recording, which claimed that ZANU PF members killed the late Ali.
“The court is satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that Sikhala was the one who recorded and uploaded the video.
“Sikhala was aware that police were investigating the murder case but he went ahead to make utterances that misled the police investigations,” she said.
She added that the evidence led by the State witnesses corroborated each other, and Sikhala is found guilty of obstructing the course of justice.

Breaking- Hon Job Sikhala has been sentenced to six months or to pay US 600 fine pic.twitter.com/Fd7VcDGbmY

— Gift Ostallos Siziba (@Cde_Ostallos) May 3, 2023

By A Correspondent- Bikita Sinomine, a lithium mining company has started construction on a $22 million power line stretching 120km from Tokwe to Bikita in Masvingo Province.

The power line will supply electricity to Bikita Sinomine’s lithium mine and also electrify surrounding communities and businesses in Bikita, Gutu, and Zaka.

The state media reported that, the company has allocated $2 million for the electrification of these rural areas.

Mine manager, David Mwanza said the power line will ensure a reliable power supply for Bikita Sinomine’s mining and processing operations and provide electricity to surrounding communities.

He said:

This US$22 million project will guarantee us adequate and reliable power for our operations while at the same time providing electricity to communities. We have set aside US$2 million for the rural electrification programme.

Mr Mwanza said Bikita Sinomine has invested $200 million in Spodumene and Pestilent Plants, both requiring constant power supply. Work on the 120km power line from Tokwe to Bikita began three weeks ago and is expected to be completed by December. The company aims to achieve $750 million in annual revenue this year, depending on the completion of the new plants in June and July.

According to finance manager Mr Amanda Makausi, Bikita Sinomine is projected to reach an annual revenue of $1 billion by 2024. The Chinese investor Sinomine’s $300 million takeover of Bikita Minerals has resulted in rapid growth, increasing production from 3 000 tonnes to 10 000 tonnes per month since February 2022.

The new plants are expected to triple production to 30 000 tonnes per month once commissioned. The increased production has also significantly increased the mine’s contribution to the fiscus, with Bikita Sinomine now being one of the biggest tax contributors in Masvingo province. The company pays $150 000 monthly in employment tax, $3 million monthly in other taxes, and mining royalties.

Bikita Sinomine’s rapid expansion has reportedly resulted in the creation of 660 jobs, with an additional 1 400 expected after the completion of the Petalite and Spodumene plants. The company is also said to be offering competitive salaries to workers along with a monthly production bonus, which is 50% of their net salary.

-statemedia

Here is a list of some properties owned by Simba Chikore and Bona Mugabe.

Residential properties:

Stand 287 Helensvale of 3,497ha valued at US$314 730.

Stand 288 Helensvale of 1,4207ha valued at US$305 000.

Stand 268 Helensvale of 1,3226ha valued at US$284 000.

Stand 306 Carrick Creagh of 1,8034ha valued at US$386 500.

Stand 307 Carrick Creagh of 2,5133ha valued at US$539 000.

Stand 308 Carrick Creagh of 1,3733ha valued at US$294 000.

Stand 309 Carrick Creagh of 1,6775ha valued at US$359 464

Stand 312 Carrick Creagh of 2.3311ha valued at US$499 500

Stand 313 Carrick Creagh of 2.6676ha valued at US$571 628.

Stand 347 Carrick Creagh of 1.3733ha valued at US$294 000.

Stand 348 Carrick Creagh of 0,712ha valued at US$152 571.

Stand 349 Carrick Creagh of 1.4407ha valued at US$308 721.

Stand 99 Carrick Creagh valued at US$180 000.

Stand 61 Helensvale valued at US$4 300 000.

Stand 40 Helensvale of 8,6257ha valued at US$1 848 364.29.

Remainder of Helensvale of 73.3819ha valued at US$40 000 000.

Stand 466 Carrick Creagh called Teede Land of 54,8726ha valued at US$11 758

414,29 Stand 27 Quorn Avenue valued at US$550 000.

Stand in Milton Park valued at US$330 000.

Lot 5 Helensvale of 2.4019ha valued at US$514 692.86.

The Mansion 657 Dubai has an estimated value of AED 30 million.

FARMS:

Chikore in his counter-claim also says he acquired or was given shares or owns solely or jointly, through donations and or in inheritance, the following twenty-one (21) farms and properties:

Rosam farm of 104.2335ha.

Smithfield Farm of 3280.5898ha.

Gushungo Estate/remainder of Foyle 1200ha. Iron Mask farm 207,8205ha.

Cressy Dale 945,037ha.

Cressy Dale Lot Two 184,534ha.

Tankantara 659,98ha.

John O’Groats 669,5ha.

Lot 1 Swan dale 155,482ha.

Lot 2 Swan dale 101,84ha.

Swandale 106,361ha.

Clifford 1426ha

Vusumuzi Banket farm 3182ha

Teviotdale Kaseplan farm 310,6189ha.

Remainder of Teviotdale 186,46ha. Buckland Estate 280ha.

Yarrow Dale Farm 2516,3358ha. Lemon Pool 102,5766ha.

Lot B of Greater B 404,6744ha.

Benissa Farming Company 1248,8033ha.

Surtic 6385,3470ha.

OTHER PROPERTY (jointly owned):

Stand 152 Lunar Road of 12.0748ha valued at US$8.5 million.

Stand Number 153 Lunar Road of 12,509ha valued at US$5.1 million.

Stand 1820 Chishawasha valued at US$50 000.

Stand 1837 Chishawasha valued at US$87 000.

Mwenewazvo/Sigaro farm of 873 hectares

VEHICLES:

Chikore further claims that before and during the marriage he acquired or was given shares or owns solely or jointly, through donations and or in inheritance, a Rolls Royce car with a value of AED 2 900 000. The parties also acquired the following vehicles jointly;

Range Rover Autobiography $140 000

Nissan NP300 AES 7205 $10 000

Nissan NP300 AES 7177 $10 000

NP300 AES 7203 $10 000

Nissan El Grand AFM 8548 $7000

Dodge Nitro ADI 6535 $7000

Toyota Landcruiser AFM 8549 $27 000

Range Rover Sport AEF 5922 (accident damaged)

$30 000 Range Rover Sport AEC 6243 (2009) $10 000

Toyota Landcruiser AFM8550 $25 000

Mercedes S500 AEN 0355 $12 000

Mercedes S430 ADV7053 $8000

Bentley 101 (non-runner) $15 000

Mercedes GL 320 (non-runner) $7000

Yamaha motorbike $6500

Mercedes GL550 Dubai $13 000

Residential properties:

Stand 287 Helensvale of 3,497ha valued at US$314 730.

Stand 288 Helensvale of 1,4207ha valued at US$305 000.

Stand 268 Helensvale of 1,3226ha valued at US$284 000.

Stand 306 Carrick Creagh of 1,8034ha valued at US$386 500.

Stand 307 Carrick Creagh of 2,5133ha valued at US$539 000.

Stand 308 Carrick Creagh of 1,3733ha valued at US$294 000.

Stand 309 Carrick Creagh of 1,6775ha valued at US$359 464

Stand 312 Carrick Creagh of 2.3311ha valued at US$499 500

Stand 313 Carrick Creagh of 2.6676ha valued at US$571 628.

Stand 347 Carrick Creagh of 1.3733ha valued at US$294 000.

Stand 348 Carrick Creagh of 0,712ha valued at US$152 571.

Stand 349 Carrick Creagh of 1.4407ha valued at US$308 721.

Stand 99 Carrick Creagh valued at US$180 000.

Stand 61 Helensvale valued at US$4 300 000.

Stand 40 Helensvale of 8,6257ha valued at US$1 848 364.29.

Remainder of Helensvale of 73.3819ha valued at US$40 000 000.

Stand 466 Carrick Creagh called Teede Land of 54,8726ha valued at US$11 758

414,29 Stand 27 Quorn Avenue valued at US$550 000.

Stand in Milton Park valued at US$330 000.

Lot 5 Helensvale of 2.4019ha valued at US$514 692.86.

The Mansion 657 Dubai has an estimated value of AED 30 million.

FARMS:

Chikore in his counter-claim also says he acquired or was given shares or owns solely or jointly, through donations and or in inheritance, the following twenty-one (21) farms and properties:

Rosam farm of 104.2335ha.

Smithfield Farm of 3280.5898ha.

Gushungo Estate/remainder of Foyle 1200ha. Iron Mask farm 207,8205ha.

Cressy Dale 945,037ha.

Cressy Dale Lot Two 184,534ha.

Tankantara 659,98ha.

John O’Groats 669,5ha.

Lot 1 Swan dale 155,482ha.

Lot 2 Swan dale 101,84ha.

Swandale 106,361ha.

Clifford 1426ha

Vusumuzi Banket farm 3182ha

Teviotdale Kaseplan farm 310,6189ha.

Remainder of Teviotdale 186,46ha. Buckland Estate 280ha.

Yarrow Dale Farm 2516,3358ha. Lemon Pool 102,5766ha.

Lot B of Greater B 404,6744ha.

Benissa Farming Company 1248,8033ha.

Surtic 6385,3470ha.

OTHER PROPERTY (jointly owned):

Stand 152 Lunar Road of 12.0748ha valued at US$8.5 million.

Stand Number 153 Lunar Road of 12,509ha valued at US$5.1 million.

Stand 1820 Chishawasha valued at US$50 000.

Stand 1837 Chishawasha valued at US$87 000.

Mwenewazvo/Sigaro farm of 873 hectares

VEHICLES:

Chikore further claims that before and during the marriage he acquired or was given shares or owns solely or jointly, through donations and or in inheritance, a Rolls Royce car with a value of AED 2 900 000. The parties also acquired the following vehicles jointly;

Range Rover Autobiography $140 000

Nissan NP300 AES 7205 $10 000

Nissan NP300 AES 7177 $10 000

NP300 AES 7203 $10 000

Nissan El Grand AFM 8548 $7000

Dodge Nitro ADI 6535 $7000

Toyota Landcruiser AFM 8549 $27 000

Range Rover Sport AEF 5922 (accident damaged)

$30 000 Range Rover Sport AEC 6243 (2009) $10 000

Toyota Landcruiser AFM8550 $25 000

Mercedes S500 AEN 0355 $12 000

Mercedes S430 ADV7053 $8000

Bentley 101 (non-runner) $15 000

Mercedes GL 320 (non-runner) $7000

Yamaha motorbike $6500

Mercedes GL550 Dubai $13 000

Dearest Hazel (the one who is always next to me in any picture, not by coincidence, but that's how close you were to me)

It is with a heavy heart and tear-filled eyes that I write this letter to you. I wish I could tell you how much I miss you, my dear friend. It feels as though… pic.twitter.com/IdakjnMVBY

— Tendai Dara (@TendaiDara) May 3, 2023

Dearest Hazel (the one who is always next to me in any picture, not by coincidence, but that’s how close you were to me) It is with a heavy heart and tear-filled eyes that I write this letter to you. I wish I could tell you how much I miss you, my dear friend. It feels as though a part of me is missing, a void left by your untimely departure.

I am haunted by the day of your accident and the message you sent, asking me to call. I was busy and couldn’t call you back, and now I would give anything, even everything I own, just to hear your voice for 30 seconds. As your best friend, we’ve been through thick and thin together.

We bought the car that tragically took your life, and we purchased the land you were building on. The memories of our journey together are bittersweet. It is like losing too many soldiers in a war; even victory feels hollow because the cost was too great. I can’t help but question why this had to happen to you, Hazel. You were such a bright light in this world, filled with so much potential. We were supposed to go to that summit in the USA together, but now I must forge ahead without you.

Your recent 25th birthday celebration, which I had planned to surprise you with a dinner, will forever be etched in my heart as a reminder of our lost time together. Our friends are devastated, and we all gather in sorrow, asking God why He took you from us. I will miss our weekly rituals – the Nandos deliveries on Tuesdays and our KFC wings dates every Friday. They will never be the same without you.

Hazel, you were a champion for the girl child, believing that they should be more than just women. I want you to know that your legacy will live on through me. I promise to carry your message, your hopes and dreams, and make them a reality. Wherever you are, my dear friend, I hope you can read this letter.

I hope you know how much you mean to me and how deeply you are missed. I still wait for a message or a call from you, even though I know it will never come.

Until we meet again, Hazel, please know that you are forever in my heart.

With love and tears, Tendai

Tribute to Hazel Jojo @HazelJojo2 A young bright, passionate & creative woman leader. We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss of a dynamic sister, friend, ally & valued asset to the women's rights & SRHR sectors. Yet, we remain immensely inspired by her short earthly journey? pic.twitter.com/dpFGdaSNve

— SAfAIDS (@SAfAIDS) May 2, 2023

Tribute to Hazel Jojo

@HazelJojo2 A young bright, passionate & creative woman leader. We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss of a dynamic sister, friend, ally & valued asset to the women’s rights & SRHR sectors. Yet, we remain immensely inspired by her short earthly journey.

We would like to express our heartfelt condolences to Hazel Jojo's family, friends, colleagues and development fraternity. She was and will always be a leader, she inspired us through her commitment to her work, feminist organisations and youth led organisations. Rest in Peace pic.twitter.com/B2SLDWazqW

— TheGirlsTable (@table_girls) May 3, 2023

"Hi I'm Hazel the youngest board member at YETT…." that was your famous intro. Wabirira Hazel, mabirira henyu!??️?️ Rest in Power?️.@YetTrust @namataik_ @weleadteam @NAYOZimbabwe @moysarzim @yglnzimbabwe @IgniteYouthOrg @YouthTracking pic.twitter.com/c6WLf9Dg7Y

— Tinashe Ngirandi (@TinasheNgirandi) May 2, 2023

By-Emmerson Mnangagwa’s gold front-man, Pedzisai “Scott” Sakupwanya, on Sunday, performed traditional rituals to ostensibly appease the spirits of several artisanal miners who perished at his Redwing gold mine in Penhalonga, Manicaland province.
The rituals were held at the mine with Sakupwanya’s company, Better Brands, funding the traditional ceremony.
A truckload of traditional beer brewed two weeks ago, was consumed at the ceremony, where a catering service company was hired to feed hundreds of people who attended the event, among them traditional leaders, Zanu PF bigwigs and artisanal miners.
This comes after government recently allowed the mine to resume operations after it was shut down by the Environmental Management Agency in January this year over safety concerns.
Sakupwanya is a key Zanu PF member and is expected to finance the ruling party’s election campaign this year.
He has also been previously pictured with President Emmerson Mnangagwa at State House.
Civic groups from Manicaland claimed that more than 100 artisanal miners have died at Redwing Mine since 2020, but NewsDay could not independently verify the claims.
Since the mine reopened in March, there have been reports of new deaths which reportedly prompted Sakupwanya to initiate the Sunday cleansing ceremony following advice from the area’s traditional leadership.
Mutasa South legislator Misheck Mugadza (Zanu PF) confirmed yesterday that he was part of the gathering.
“Yes, we had a traditional ceremony for various reasons. There were traditional leaders and we were also celebrating the coming in of a new chief, (but) we were cleansing the area because of the deaths that have been recorded at the mine. It’s obvious that the company financed the ceremony because they are the ones who are operating at the mine,” he said.
Mugadza applauded Better Brands for the initiative.
Better Brands mine manager Alexio Guyo also confirmed the ceremony, but directed all questions about the event to the company’s general manager Cuthbert Chitima.
“I was not there, l am in Beatrice, but you can get in touch with Cuthbert Chitima,” he said.
Chitima’s phone was not being answered yesterday.
Penhalonga Youth Development Trust director Clinton Masanga said Better Brands conducted the rituals using traditional snuff and some rice that was sprinkled in the mineshafts to supposedly appease the spirits of departed artisanal miners.
“It was a traditional and ritual ceremony done at once. Traditional snuff and some grains of rice were thrown in the claims where some artisanal miners reportedly died,” Masanga said.
“The fact that they did the traditional ceremony or rituals is clear indication that they are aware of the deaths that have occurred at the mine.”
Masanga, however, said it was difficult to determine whether Redwing Mine had satisfied the safety demands made by Ema.
“However, it is important to note that traditional ceremonies and mining operations should not compromise safety measures and environmental regulations. The poor management of the mine by Better Brands Mining Company is a cause for concern and it is essential that the company improves (workers’ safety at the mine),” he said.
Masanga added: “If the traditional ceremony is conducted (and the mining company) violates the restrictions set by Ema, it could potentially lead to negative consequences such as harm to the environment or danger to the workers.”
Centre for Research and Development director James Mupfumi, who has in the past been vocal over mine deaths in Penhalonga, weighed in saying conducting a traditional ceremony was not enough to guarantee miners’ safety.
“I think the company was seeking to address the issue of mine deaths which have not stopped even after the company was closed,” he said. Newsday

By-Four people died, and thirteen others sustained injuries in a head-on collision between an Iveco bus with 35 passengers and an Isuzu double cab vehicle with 17 passengers Sunday along Banket-Mazvikadei Road.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said The ZRP confirmed the accident. In a statement, police said victims were taken to the mortuary. Reads the statement:

The ZRP confirms a fatal road traffic accident in which four people were killed whilst thirteen others were injured when an Iveco bus with 35 passengers on board was involved in a head-on collision with an Isuzu double cab vehicle with seventeen passengers on board on 30/04/23 at about 1520 hours at the 4-kilometre peg along Banket-Mazvikadei Road. The bodies of the victims were taken to Banket Hospital mortuary for post-mortem whilst the injured are admitted at the same hospital. 

By-THe regime has warned the celebrated Zimdancehall singer, Winky D, against performing his song Ibotso.

The song is on his latest offering, “Eureka Eureka,” and it discusses corruption and suffering in Zimbabwe, which has caused discomfort and controversy among government circles.

Winky D, made this revelation during his performance at the Fill UP Queens Sports Club, Byo Shut Down concert in Bulawayo.

This was his first public appearance in a month since his performance was cut short by police during a show at Damview Chikwanha Blue Rest Grill and Bat in Chitungwiza. He shouted in the midst of his performance:

Let me talk, I have been cautioned, I have been warned and they said if you sing that particular song there is going to be disaster; so, I do not want disaster here.

I want people to have fun, I want people to party, I want to see every gaffer in full enjoyment, every gaffer who is here to party. Can I see a signal early Sunday morning, I want every gaffer in the place, Maninja.

They want to arrest the music, they must leave the music to flow like the water in the river, they don’t have to control my playlist, I have to play what I want, I have to play what you want.

Winky D performed his old hit song “Gafa Party” at the concert, which includes the lyrics “Handiite Politics But Handibude MuParty Ini: I don’t do politics, but I will never leave the party.“

After the show, he thanked his fans for their support in a post on his Facebook page.

Winky D’s album “Eureka Eureka,” which addresses social injustice, economic struggles, and government corruption in Zimbabwe, has caused friction between him and the authorities. Since its release, he has faced online harassment from supporters of the ruling Zanu PF party. Some ZANU PF-affiliated groups have even called for a ban on Winky D’s music, alleging that it causes “alarm and despondency” among the youth. Despite this, Winky D has continued to speak out against social issues in his music. He recently won the International Reggae & World Music Awards for Best African Dancehall Entertainer for the second time.