Regional Human Capital Operations Manager – Human Capital x2 (Harare)

SAP Support Analyst (F1) – ICT: LEVEL 9 (Harare)

ABAP Developer: Level 9 (Harare)

Procurement Manager: D5 (Harare)

Financial Accountant (Harare)

Sales Consultant (Kadoma)

Cervical Cancer & Clinical Service Mentor Nurse

Laboratory Technician (Harare)

Spport Driver (Harare)

Food Security and Livelihoods Head of Department (Harare)

Accountant (Harare)

Accounting Assistants x3 (Harare)

Communications Intern (Harare)

Corporate Legal Counsel (Kamativi)

Company Secretary (Harare)

Marketing Manager (Harare)

Sales Manager (Harare)

Procurement Manager (D5)

Director Policy and Market Development (Harare)

Assistant Valuer Grade 7

Town Planner Grade 10

Till Operator x2 (Bindura)

Ambulance Technician (Bindura)

Business Development Manager

Intellectual Property Manager

Chief Research Officer (Bindura)

Teaching Assistant: Banking and Finance (Bindura)

Technical Assistant: Natural Resource Management (Bindura)

Administrator (Bindura)

Faculties Manager (Harare)

Staff Development Fellow: Department of Veterinary Pathobiology x4 (Harare)

Staff Development Fellow: Department of Construction & Civil Engineering (Harare)

Officer: Student Residential and Logistical Services (Harare)

Student Development Officers (Harare)

Information Manager (Harare)

Graphic Designer x2 (Harare)

Marketing Officer (Harare)

Technical/Copy Editor x2 (Harare)

Proofreader x2 (Harare)

Typesetter x2 (Harare)

Acquisitions Editors x2 (Harare)

General Hand (Harare)

Locum Pharmacists (Mutare & Ngezi)

Drivers x2 (Harare Campus)

Graphic Designer (Gweru)

Drivers (Harare Campus)

Artisan Supervisor – Fleet Maintenance (Gweru)

Transport and Logistics Officer - Tracking (Gweru)

SHEQ Intern/ Attaché (Bulawayo)

Nutrition Officer (Mutare)

Team Leader (Mutare)

Project Field Officer (Mutare)

Monitoring and Evaluation Officer (Mutare)

Assistant Accountant-Retail (Harare)

Trainee Risk Officer (Harare)

Sales Manager (Bulawayo)

Police have confirmed the arrest of five suspects in connection with two armed robberies that took place in Cowdray Park, Bulawayo, on November 8 and 22, 2024.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said that in the first incident, an undisclosed amount of cash, a shotgun with one round, an Escort rifle with six rounds, and two cellphones were stolen.
In the second incident, US$26,508.00 in cash and five cellphones were taken. Said Commissioner Nyathi:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Nkosiyazi Nyathi (20), Vusumusi Ncube (22), Mgcini Sibanda (24), Mlungisi Ndlovu (41) and Nkosiyazi Moyo (27) in connection with two armed robbery cases which occurred in Cowdray Park, Bulawayo on 08th and 22nd November 2024.
On 12th December 2024, a crack team from CID Homicide, Bulawayo received information that Nkosiyazi Nyathi and Vusumusi Ncube were detained at ZRP Cowdray Park for unlawful possession of a pistol.
The detectives made a follow-up and interviewed the suspects who revealed that they stole the pistol with a magazine of 10 rounds at a Security company along Jason Moyo between 3rd and 4th Avenue, Bulawayo on 10th November 2023.
The arrest led to the recovery of several items including, a bolt cutter, Colombia knife, two balaclavas, a pair of binoculars, cable ties, small metal axe, small knife, crow bar, screw driver and spanners.
The suspects implicated, Mgcini Sibanda, Mlungisi Ndlovu and Nkosiyazi Moyo, leading to their arrest at a house in Gwabalanda, Bulawayo.
Upon arrest, Nkosiyazi Moyo fired at the detectives and was shot on the chest. As a result, Nkosiyazi Moyo sustained a gunshot wound and was taken to a hospital in Bulawayo for treatment.
A Norinco pistol charged with five rounds and two empty cartridges were recovered at the scene.
The suspects are being linked to a case of robbery which occurred on 08th November 2024 at a service station in Cowdray Park, Bulawayo where undisclosed amount of cash, a shot gun with one round, an Escort rifle with six rounds and two cellphones were stolen.
Further, the suspects are clearing a robbery case which occurred on 22nd November 2024 at a house in Cowdray Park, Bulawayo where USD 26 508.00 cash and five cellphones were stolen.
The other suspect, Alex Nyathi is on the run.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Five suspects have been arrested for robbing people in Cowdray Park, Bulawayo. They stole money, guns, and cellphones in two incidents in November 2024. The police found weapons and tools used in the robberies. One suspect got shot by the police during the arrest. The suspects are also connected to another robbery in a service station and a house. One more suspect is still on the run. The police are investigating and trying to stop these crimes in the area.

Five Suspects Arrested In Cowdray Park Armed Robberies

Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) faction leader Jameson Timba and 34 party activists were handed wholly suspended sentences on Wednesday, November 27.
The group, which spent over five months in custody, was last week convicted of participating in an unlawful gathering.
Magistrate Collet Ncube sentenced Timba and Jaison Kautsa to two years imprisonment, wholly suspended for five years, on the condition that they don’t commit an offence involving an illegal gathering with the intent to promote public violence.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed the sentences in a statement. Said the NPA:
<blockquote>
Jameson Timba and 33 others were sentenced today at the Harare Magistrates’ Court. Jameson Timba and Jason Kunatsa were sentenced to 2 years imprisonment wholly suspended for 5 years on condition the accused persons do not commit an offence involving unlawful gathering with intent to promote public violence for which they will be sentenced to imprisonment without the option of a fine. The rest were sentenced as follows:
Accused 12, 29, 31, 34, 36, 54, 57, 60, 65 &amp; 74
12 months imprisonment wholly suspended for 5 years on the same conditions as above.
Accused 9, 13, 14, 62, 63, 64, 75, 76
14 months imprisonment wholly suspended for 5 years on the same conditions as above.
Accused 26, 28, 38, 39, 42, 43, 48, 52, 53, 55, 56, 59, 66, 77
16 months imprisonment wholly suspended on the same conditions as above.
Accused 40
6 months imprisonment wholly suspended on the same conditions as above.
</blockquote>
In his ruling, Ncube said most of the convicts were poor people while some of them were breadwinners, and first-time offenders deserving of a second chance, hence it was in the interest of justice to give a wholly suspended sentence. He said:
<blockquote>
The court believes that since they are first offenders, they should be given another chance. Many of them struggle to raise even the fine, and most are breadwinners with unstable sources of income. Their continued detention would only burden their families.
</blockquote>
Timba and 79 others were arrested at his Avondale house on a charge of holding an illegal gathering with intent to cause public violence.
Their party, however, maintained that they were commemorating the Day of the African Child which falls on 16 June.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Jameson Timba and 34 activists from CCC were given suspended sentences for joining an unlawful gathering. Timba and Jaison Kautsa got 2 years, suspended for 5 years. Other male activists got 16 months suspended, and females got 12 months suspended. The judge said most of them were poor, first-time offenders and breadwinners needing a second chance. They were arrested during a gathering but claimed they were celebrating the Day of the African Child. The judge didn't want to burden their families with more trouble, so he decided to give them another chance.

Jameson Timba And 34 CCC Activists Receive Wholly Suspended Sentences

Richard Ncube (48), a truck driver for Top Channel, and his assistant Alex Moyo (22) appeared in court this week facing serious allegations of sexually abusing a male passenger. Both men have been charged with aggravated indecent assault.
The pair was brought before Harare Magistrate Marehwanazvo Gofa and were remanded in custody until November 19 for a bail application.
According to court papers, on November 10, the complainant boarded Ncube’s truck in Chegutu, intending to travel to Chitungwiza via Harare. After arriving in Harare, Ncube parked the truck at Zim Meal Company in Waterfalls, where the complainant fell asleep in the passenger seat.
It is alleged that Ncube then removed the complainant’s clothing and began to touch him inappropriately. When the complainant objected, Moyo reportedly intervened, threatening him with a gun-like object. Ncube is further accused of performing sexual acts on the complainant without his consent.
Feeling unsafe and unfamiliar with the area, the complainant remained in the truck overnight. The following morning, he reported the incident to the police at ZRP Mbare, leading to the arrest of both Ncube and Moyo.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A truck driver and his assistant have been accused of sexually abusing a male passenger. The passenger fell asleep in the truck and woke up to inappropriate touching. The driver's assistant threatened him with a gun-like object. The passenger stayed overnight feeling unsafe and reported the incident to the police the next morning. The driver and assistant have been charged and taken into custody. They will have a bail hearing in court soon. This is a serious case of indecent assault.

Truck Driver In Court For Sodomising Male Passenger

Police are investigating a case that gained widespread attention on social media following a recent episode of The Closure DNA Show hosted by Tinashe Mugabe.
The episode revealed that an uncle allegedly had non-consensual sex with his 19-year-old niece, resulting in her pregnancy. She was 14 years old when the alleged abuse occurred.
The victim reportedly experienced sexual abuse after a football match, during which she had consumed alcohol.
The girl was unable to share her story on the show due to her emotional state, but the uncle confessed to being intimate with her without her consent.
In a statement issued on Friday, 18 October, Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi investigations into the matter are underway. He said:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has taken note of a video by Tinashe Mugabe DNA Show episode circulating on social media platforms in which a 19-year-old woman was allegedly raped by her uncle at the age of 14.
In the video, the victim was allegedly sexually abused after a football match where the suspect gave her beer.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police assures the public that investigations into the allegations are being conducted for the law to take its course.
</blockquote>
The Closure DNA Show, hosted by Tinashe Mugabe, is a popular television program that focuses on paternity DNA testing and resolving family disputes1
The show provides a platform for individuals seeking clarity on paternity issues, often revealing surprising and emotional results.
It has gained significant attention for its role in uncovering truths and helping people find closure on personal matters as well as exposing incidents of abuse.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Police are looking for a man who admitted to raping his niece when she was only 14 years old. The uncle impregnated his niece when she was 19 years old. The girl was not able to share her story on TV. The police are investigating the case. The TV show where this was revealed focuses on family issues. People are shocked by what happened and are hoping for justice. The show helps people find out the truth and deal with difficult situations in their families.

Police Search For Man Who Admitted To Raping His 14-Year-Old Niece On The DNA Show

An alleged female goblin is reportedly terrorising teachers at Kandana Primary School in Bulilima, Matabeleland South Province.
Teachers at the school have threatened to leave if the situation is not resolved. The school is situated close to the late Chief Kandana’s homestead.
The issue is said to have begun in June 2023, but it was only reported to community leaders this term.
One teacher told <a href="https://bmetro.co.zw/female-goblin-terrorises-teachers/">B-Metro</a> that the alleged goblin had been visiting the school at night and dropping items at their homes. Said the teacher:
<blockquote>
It comes at night and drops kitchen utensils, sometimes we just hear movements as if it is someone walking.
In some cottages, some teachers say they hear the sounds of someone cooking. Some of our colleagues have seen it in visions and they say it has a female body.
</blockquote>
Another teacher claimed that while sleeping at night, the invisible creature seems to sit on them, creating a sensation of heaviness on their bodies.
The teacher said that although they have not experienced any sexual assault, there is a lingering fear that such an incident could occur at any time. Said the teacher:
<blockquote>
We suspect that it could be the same goblin that terrorised police officers at Gwambe clinic because it attacked male officers sexually and on this side those who see it in “visions” see a female one.
If nothing is done we will be forced to ask for transfers because we do not know what will happen next.
</blockquote>
The school is situated not far from Gwambe Clinic, where police officers reportedly fled from “female goblins” that were allegedly engaging in sexual encounters with them while they slept.
The community held a meeting and decided to enlist witch hunters to address the issue. They are currently mobilising funds for the exorcism process.
Village head Edward Magutshwa, in a voice note to the diaspora community, appealed for financial help to address the problem. He said:
<blockquote>
We have been faced with a goblin problem that is troubling the teachers at Kandana Primary School and in the villages.
We fear the school can be closed if the matter is not addressed. We appeal for financial help to address the problem
</blockquote>
Local councillor Ambassador Mabehdi Ngulani saidt he is aware of the issue but has not yet obtained detailed information, as he has been away from the community.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Teachers at Kandana Primary School are scared of a female goblin that visits at night. They hear noises, feel something sitting on them, and see things being dropped. The goblin may have a female body. Some teachers fear sexual assault. The community is getting witch hunters to help. They need money for this. The village head asked for help. The councillor is aware of the issue but doesn't know all the details yet. Everyone is worried and wants the problem to be solved.

Alleged Female Goblin Terrorises Teachers

Touts from Harare caused a scene on Sunday when they allegedly seized the coffin of their deceased colleague, Darlington Mukono, and dumped it in his uncle’s shop at Nzvimbe Business Centre in Makoni South.
The touts accused Darlington’s uncle, Joshua Hweniwa Mukono, of causing Darlington’s death.
Darlington, who was employed as a kombi driver, had allegedly collapsed and died while on the steering wheel in Harare. Joshua is the brother of Darlington’s father, Edmore.
The rowdy touts, who were singing and dancing, also pasted the deceased’s pictures around the grocery shop’s wall.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/unwanted-cargo-coffin-dumped-in-shop/">The Manica Post</a>, Abisha Mukono, a cousin to Darlington, denied instigating the touts against their uncle, Joshua.
However, Abisha admitted that Joshua stands accused of causing misfortunes to family members. He said:
<blockquote>
Darlington passed on September 27 in Harare where he was working as a kombi driver. He left his house in the morning to go to work, and as he was seated at the steering wheel, his colleagues were shocked to hear him screaming, shouting “ahhh maihweee” and collapsed. They rushed him to the hospital, and he died on admission.
The family was informed of his death, and his body was ferried to Nzvimbe last Saturday night. On Sunday morning, his work colleagues created a scene, demanding an explanation for the death of their friend.
They argued that Darlington’s death was not natural, and resultantly took the coffin to Uncle Joshua’s shop.
As a family, we did not know who informed them about previous squabbles and finger-pointing in the family.
No family members accompanied the touts to the shop where they dumped the coffin on the counter. We only learnt through social media that a coffin was dumped in the shop.
Police from Nyazura arrived when the coffin had been returned home. We later buried the body in the afternoon.
</blockquote>
Abisha said none of them had engaged the businessman regarding the family disputes, and added that their uncle did not attend the funeral. He said:
<blockquote>
In the past, the family once approached a traditional healer in Nyanga who disclosed that our uncle possesses wealth-enhancing charms causing misfortunes in the family.
We did not pay the n’anga after he demanded US$ 12,000 to cleanse the family. Our uncle also did not pay for the services and agreed to leave his car as surety as he was supposed to undergo some cleansing rituals.
On the return journey, he disembarked from the kombi and ran away. We later learnt that he went to the police to file a theft of motor vehicle charge.
He was accompanied by the police to recover the vehicle, prompting the traditional healer to release it. 
He later filed criminal charges, accusing us of kidnapping, assaulting and accusing him of practising wizardry. The courts cleared us of any wrongdoing.
</blockquote>
However, Joshua attributed the family drama to longstanding tensions stemming from their father’s polygamous marriage to three wives.
He denied any involvement in bewitching his relatives and accused his brothers of harbouring jealousy toward his success.
Joshua asserted that traditional healers were perpetuating the animosity, blaming him for the misfortunes and poverty experienced by other family members.
He also claimed that $4,500 was stolen from his grocery shop, along with a variety of food items that were reportedly looted and used to provide for mourners at the funeral. Said Joshua:
<blockquote>
I do not even know the deceased, having last seen him when he was a toddler. I just heard that he had passed on, and I went there to pass my condolences.
I slept in my shop since thieves usually pounce when there are funerals in the area. The following day, I proceeded to the funeral, and while on my way I was informed that some people had dumped a coffin at my shop.
They broke into the shop and placed the coffin on the counter. They pasted the deceased’s pictures inscribed rest in peace around the shop.
They looted groceries from my shop, saying as the person responsible for Darlington’s death, I should foot the funeral expenses.
They broke into one of the rooms where I keep cash, and stole US$4 570 and two bags of maize. I reported the theft to the police, who came recorded statements before removing the pictures of the deceased from the walls.
</blockquote>
Chief Chiduku said the incident was taboo and was puzzled that the affected parties had not reported the matter to him, as he is the custodian of the area.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Touts in Harare were mad at Darlington's uncle and accused him of causing Darlington's death. They put Darlington's coffin in the uncle's shop. Darlington died while driving a kombi. The touts were upset and made a big show at the uncle's shop. The family had issues with the uncle before. The family denied getting the touts involved. The uncle said he didn't know Darlington and denied any involvement in bad luck for the family. He said the touts stole from his shop and blamed him for the funeral costs. The police got involved. Chief Chiduku was surprised no one told him about what happened.

Touts Seize Coffin Of Deceased Colleague And Dump It In Uncle's Shop

Webster Mahawa, a 45-year-old chef, is seeking financial support to undergo life-saving heart surgery in India.
In July 2021, Mahawa was diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy with severely reduced systolic function with an Ejection Fraction (EF) of 20%.
His heart is very weak and it is failing, as he is experiencing heart failure symptoms that are now affecting his day-to-day living.
A GoFundMe page to raise funds for Mahawa’s operation can be found here: <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-webster-get-lifesaving-surgery">https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-webster-get-lifesaving-surgery</a>
Mahawa’s surgery is scheduled for no later than the end of October 2024. The total cost of the surgery and aftercare, including 8 weeks of accommodation in India under the care of Dr Ajay Kaul (Chairman Cardiac Sciences), is USD$25,000.
For cash donations contact:
EcoCash:+263 77 335 8271-Webster Mahawa 
Mukuru:+263 77 335 8271-Webster Mahawa
USD bank account: Bank name: NMB Bank Acc number:00000400050268 Name: Jessie William.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Webster Mahawa, a 45-year-old chef, needs $25,000 for heart surgery in India. He has a weak heart and needs the surgery to survive. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help raise the money. The surgery is scheduled for October 2024. Mahawa needs help to pay for the surgery and aftercare. People can donate cash through EcoCash, Mukuru, or a USD bank account. Mahawa needs help to get better and live a healthy life.

45-Year-Old Man Appeals For US$25 000 For Life-Saving Heart Surgery In India

The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) has warned the public about a surge in fraudulent recruitment calls made by individuals impersonating ZPCS officials. These scammers are utilising social media platforms to spread counterfeit recruitment advertisements.
In a statement released on September 26, the ZPCS said that these individuals are deceiving job seekers into paying fees for non-existent employment opportunities.
The ZPCS emphasized that it does not charge any fees for recruitment, selection, or training. All recruitment activities are conducted directly by the ZPCS without the involvement of third parties. Reads the statement:
The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) urgently calls for public awareness regarding a disturbing increase in fraudulent calls for recruitment being perpetrated by unscrupulous individuals masquerading as ZPCS officials.
<blockquote>
These criminals are targetting job seekers, tricking them to pay fees for non-existing employment opportunities within the ZPCS.
The ZPCS has observed with great concern, a surge in scammers leveraging social media platforms disseminating counterfeit recruitment advertisements.
Their ultimate aim is to get money from hopeful and unsuspecting candidates, thereby causing financial loss and emotional distress to many.
Despite our consistent efforts to educate the public through various media outlets, we regret to inform members of the public that numerous individuals have already fallen prey to these deceitful practices.
The brazen nature of these scams is alarming, with some impostors even openly soliciting applicants to attend fake selection exercises.
The ZPCS categorically asserts that it does not charge any fees for recruitment, selection or training. 
All recruitment activities are conducted directly by the ZPCS without imposing any costs on candidates and we do not engage any third parties in the official recruitment processes.
We therefore wish to reiterate that all authentic ZPCS recruitment initiatives are publicly announced via established mainstream print and electronic media outlets.
Interested applicants are required to respond with written applications, and selections are conducted at designated ZPCS centres across all provinces.
In response to this growing threat, we strongly urge the public to independently verify the authenticity of any recruitment advertisements.
Citizens should consult the nearest ZPCS offices to confirm the legitimacy of any calls for applications to join the ZPCS.
Let there be no doubt, we are committed to protecting job seekers from these criminal activities and we need everyone’s help to combat these atrocities.
We thank you for your cooperation and commitment to safeguarding our community from fraud.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service is warning people about fake job offers from scammers pretending to be officials from ZPCS. These scammers are using social media to trick job seekers into paying for jobs that don't exist. ZPCS wants the public to know that they don't charge any fees for recruitment. They do all recruitment themselves and don't use third parties. People are being urged to be careful and verify any recruitment ads before paying any money. ZPCS is working to protect job seekers from these scams and asks for everyone's help in stopping them.

Rising Recruitment Scams Worry Prisons And Correctional Service

The renovation of the National Sports Stadium is far from being finished. So far, only $3.8 million has been spent out of the planned $25.4 million.
This was revealed by the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and lnvestment Promotion,  Mthuli Ncube, on Wednesday.
He was answering questions from members of parliament who wanted to know how the renovation is going for the 60,000-seat stadium since the start of this year. Said Ncube:
<blockquote>
The engagements with the Ministry of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture indicated that to date, only US$6.75 million has been contracted.
</blockquote>
Ncube said the US$6.75 million relates to infrastructural development including a water reticulation system, installation of security systems such as CCTV, access control equipment, as well a ticketing system. He added:
<blockquote>
Out of this amount, the total value of work done and certified amounts to US$3.8 million which has since been paid for in full.
</blockquote>
Ncube said that this year, the Local Government and Public Works Ministry proposed a total budget of $25.4 million for the full refurbishment of the National Sports Stadium.
Out of this amount, $17.5 million is planned for improving infrastructure, security, and access control. The remaining $7.9 million will go toward other projects like fencing, groundwork, and related tasks.
Ncube could not provide a timeline for when the funds would be available.
In his 2024 national budget, he only allocated $2.75 million for the stadium’s refurbishment.
The stadium is being refurbished to meet the standards set by CAF for hosting international matches.
Right now, the Zimbabwe national football team (the Warriors) and local teams like Dynamos and Ngezi Platinum are using sports facilities in countries like Rwanda, South Africa, and Botswana to host international matches.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The National Sports Stadium is being fixed up, but it's taking longer than planned. Only $3.8 million has been spent out of the $25.4 million needed. The government hasn't said when the rest of the money will be available. The stadium needs renovations to meet international standards for sports. Right now, Zimbabwe's national football team has to play in other countries like Rwanda and South Africa because the stadium isn't ready. The renovation includes improving infrastructure, security, and more. The Minister of Finance says they are working on it, but it's taking time.

National Sports Stadium Renovation Gets Only $3.8 Million Of Needed $25.4 Million

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has demanded the immediate release of high school teacher Ronald Hondongwa and 65 other individuals who were arrested on June 16, 2024, while commemorating the Day of the African Child in Harare.
Hondongwa and 77 others were initially charged with public violence and gathering without police clearance.
The charge of gathering without police clearance has since been dismissed by the courts, but only 12 of those arrested have been released so far.
Hondongwa and 65 others are now accused of throwing stones at the police officers who arrested them.
However, ARTUZ said Hondongwa has a disability and is physically incapable of even holding a spoon, let alone throwing stones.
Furthermore, state witnesses have acknowledged this fact, but state prosecutors continue to insist that Hondongwa threw stones. Said ARTUZ:
<blockquote>
Cde Hondongwa is an ICT teacher, and evidence to that effect was presented in Court by lawyers and accepted by the State. He is teaching forms 3 and 4 at Zengeza 4 High School.
The learners are being denied their right to education as their teacher remains caged facing spurious charges. The Form 4 class sits for public examinations and is definitely going to be prejudiced.
Hondongwa’s wife Phillis Pikitai was at some point arrested and spent days in detention after raising a placard demanding the release of her husband.
It is not proper to leave the burden of fighting for justice to the hands of the spouses of the persecuted.
</blockquote>
ARTUZ says it is the collective responsibility of all citizens worldwide to push back against injustice wherever it may occur.
The organisation has called on people around the globe to join their demand for the immediate release of Hondongwa and the other 65 individuals who remain detained.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A teacher in Zimbabwe named Ronald Hondongwa was arrested for throwing stones at police officers, but he is physically unable to do so because of a disability. He was initially charged with being part of a violent group without police permission, but that charge was dropped. Even though witnesses say he cannot throw stones, he is still being accused. His students are suffering because he is not able to teach them. His wife was also arrested for protesting his detention. The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe is asking people to help get Hondongwa and the others released.

High School Teacher "Who Cannot Even Hold A Spoon" Detained For Throwing Stones At Police Officers

A 28-year-old woman from Headlands has been sentenced to 10 years in prison by a Rusape magistrate for engaging in sexual intercourse with a 17-year-old boy without his consent.
The woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons, faced charges of aggravated indecent assault in the Rusape Magistrates’ Court.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the accused first aroused the teenager by touching him before proceeding to have sexual intercourse without his consent. The NPA said:
<blockquote>
It was the State’s case that on the 17th of August 2024 at around 1800 hours at Sherenje village the complainant who is a boy 17 years of age went to the accused person’s house intending to have the accused person send him some videos from her phone to his phone.
Upon arrival, the complainant and the accused person started sharing the videos whilst seated next to each other.
All of a sudden the accused person aroused the complainant by inserting her hand in the complainant’s pants and started fondling his private parts.
She then pulled down the boy’s trousers to knee level, produced a condom and put in on the complaint’s manhood.
The accused person pulled up her skirt and removed her pants, lay down and instructed the complainant to mount himself on top of her.
The accused person had sexual intercourse with the complainant without his consent. She told the complainant not to reveal the incident to anyone.
The accused person later continued to ask for more sex from the complainant but he rejected the requests.
</blockquote>
The boy later confided in his mother about the ordeal, prompting her to accompany him to the police to file a report.
The accused was subsequently arrested, tried, and convicted, receiving a 10-year prison sentence.
Under Zimbabwe’s Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, the legal definition of rape is specific to forced penetration, which means that only a man can be charged with rape for penetrating a woman without her consent.
Due to this definition, a woman cannot be legally charged with raping a man in Zimbabwe. However, women can still be charged with aggravated indecent assault for similar acts, which carries penalties equivalent to those for rape.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A 28-year-old woman was sent to jail for 10 years for forcing a 17-year-old boy to have sex with her. The woman touched the boy inappropriately and had sex without his permission. The boy told his mother, and they went to the police. The woman was arrested, tried, and found guilty. In Zimbabwe, only men can be charged with rape, so the woman was charged with aggravated indecent assault instead. This carries a similar penalty to rape. The incident happened in Headlands, and the woman's name cannot be shared.

Woman (28) "Rapes" 17-year-old Boy In Headlands

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest of a fourth suspect linked to the robbery of passengers and crew on a Beitbridge-bound Blue Circle Buses coach at Vilivili Bus Stop in Mwenezi on Wednesday.
On Friday, July 19th, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrest of three of the five suspects: Ashton Siziva (26), Sauro Dadirai (24), and Phineas Shumba (25). They were apprehended at Maporisa Business Centre, Maranda, Mwenezi.
In a post on their official X platform this Saturday, the ZRP announced that a fourth suspect, Talent Mlauzi (20), was arrested in Beitbridge on Friday in connection with the robbery.
This means that only one suspect, Elphias Mugurugudze, remains at large.
During the heist, the suspects made off with US$8,621 and ZAR 62,070.
According to a message that circulated on WhatsApp, the five suspected armed robbers boarded the Blue Circle Buses coach at the Mbare bus terminus in Harare and paid their fares for the trip to Beitbridge.
The message further revealed that when the bus reached Lundi, approximately 100 kilometres south of Masvingo, one of the men requested to be dropped off just after the turn-off to Neshuro. 
As the bus approached the designated spot, the suspected robber who had asked to disembark then signalled to his four accomplices, seemingly indicating that they all wanted to get off at that point.
When the bus stopped, the conductor went out first, at which point the suspected robber, brandishing a pistol, ordered the conductor back into the vehicle.
It is alleged that the other four suspects simultaneously drew out knives and commanded the driver to pull the bus off the highway. Reads the WhatsApp message:
<blockquote>
The driver was ordered to turn left at Vilivili and instructed to switch off all lights. All passengers and crew were ordered to surrender cash. They threatened to kill anyone who did not surrender their belongings.
</blockquote>
After robbing the passengers, one of the suspects fired a single shot into the air, presumably to further intimidate the passengers. The armed gang then swiftly disappeared into the surrounding darkness.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The police caught a fourth person in connection with a robbery on a bus. Three suspects were arrested earlier. One suspect is still missing. The robbers stole money from passengers and crew on a bus. They threatened people with weapons. The police are still investigating the case.

Police Arrest Fourth Suspect In Blue Circle Bus Robbery

Professor Itai Muwati’s family alleges that he was fatally assaulted by Madzibaba Ishmael Cokurongerwa’s followers, with the cult leader reportedly overseeing the attack.
Professor Muwati resided at Madzibaba Ishmael’s shrine in Nyabira. Some relatives claim he intended to leave the cult before the assault occurred.
One of Madzibaba Ishmael’s loyal followers reportedly took the academic, and he was still alive when buried.
Shortly after his demise, the family successfully exhumed Professor Muwati’s remains from the shrine’s shallow grave.
The postmortem results, delivered to the family on Monday, two years after his passing, indicate that Prof Muwati was poisoned.
After H-Metro ran a front-page story on Wednesday, March 20, Tichie D. Madiwanashe, who said the late Professor was his uncle, <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/nephew-claims-prof-muwati-was-buried-alive-claims-his-widow-was-snatched-by-a-cult-member-the-day-he-died-names-those-he-claims-butchered-the-professor-on-that-fateful-day/">said</a>:
<blockquote>
You were beaten whilst Ishmael was seated on a chair urging his assassins to deal with you ruthlessly, I am in tears sekuru as I write.
RIP Mkrugenzi, I can imagine the horror you went through.
Continue to rest in peace Sekuru Itai, we know your murderers and justice will finally be delivered as I promised you when you visited in my dream.
We are not resting, your mine, your vehicles, cattle, hanga, chickens, matoki, chigayo chemafuta, grinding mill, gas tanks and your money they looted, they shall return.
You bought Ishmael an Isuzu KB280 when he was released from prison, you gave him your C200 Benz, helped him more than anybody else did but this is how he chose to repay you.
Just because you wanted to leave his cult.
</blockquote>
Madiwanashe further alleged that the professor was brutally attacked with physical objects before he was made to drink a non-alcoholic traditional brew that was laced with poison. He wrote:
<blockquote>
We know James Takavengwa Gwenzi, Rinos Kabunu and Devlodge Phibion Katsande beat you up, we heard you fought back but stones were used to attack you, and knobkeries, you bled profusely and you were given pfuko, laced with poison.
We know they buried you alive, you breathed your last underground and Inspector Musekiwa… was, indeed, a stumbling block, however, at last, we are there, and you can now rest in peace.
We know Terrance Nhavira and Byton Andrew Muganhu are using your truck and Byton took your wife the day you were buried and your household property.
</blockquote>
Gwenzi and Katsande have been charged together with Madzibaba Ishmael. Said Madiwanashe:
<blockquote>
Byton took over the household property, house, kids, and wife plus the truck, the rest kuna Mambo weKenani, most projects they are doing were initiated and funded by Prof Muwati.
Other monies came from Oscar Hardware in Domboshawa, which had a stock of up to US$80 000 dollars and, for a good three months, it cashed directly to Ishmael, we hear his sons (Abedinigo and Stailodge) were behind the sales.
</blockquote>
Madzibaba Ishmael is jointly charged with seven other Johane Masowe, Gore Jena Penyera Nyika leaders namely Shingirai Ngawafune (42), James Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu, Devlodge Katsande (45), Aaron Chokurongerwa (47), Wonder Kabaya (41) and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53).
The accused were charged with violating the Burial and Cremation Act, and also contravening the Children’s Act.
On the first count, the State is alleging that sometime in November 2023 the accused persons conducted 2 burials in respect of the late Hazel Chikunhire and Winlet Chibaya at Lily Farm compound in Nyabira without burial orders.
On the second count, the State is further alleging that sometime during the period extending from 2019 to date, the accused persons being parents or guardians neglected or exposed the children in their custody and care to living conditions that caused them unnecessary suffering or conditions that were detrimental to their health. The children were not allowed to go to school or access health care services.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Nephew Claims Prof Muwati Was Brutalised, Made To Consume Poison And Buried Alive At Madzibaba Ishmael’s Shrine

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest of a self-styled prophet and leader of Johane Masowe (Gore Jena Penyeranyika), Ishmael Chokurongerwa (56) at his Lily Farm in Nyabira on Tuesday, 12 March.
ZRP spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Nyathi on Wednesday, 13 March said Chokurongerwa and seven members of his church were arrested for criminal activities which include abuse of minors.
The other church members who were arrested are Shingirai Ngawafune (42), James Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu, Devlodge Katsande (45), Aaron Chokurongerwa (47), Wonder Kabaya (41) and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53). Said Asst Comm Nyathi:
<blockquote>
The arrest follows a raid made by the Police at the farm on 12th March 2024. Investigations conducted by the Police established that 246 out of 251 children below the age of 18 years found at the farm had no birth certificates and were being used to perform various physical activities for the benefit of the sect’s leadership.
Police established that all children of school-going age did not attend formal education and were subjected to abuse as cheap labour, doing manual work in the name of being taught life skills.
At the shrine, 16 graves were found of which nine graves are for adults and seven graves for infants. All burials were conducted without prior registration with the Registrar-General’s office in terms of the Birth and Death Registration Act, Chapter 5:02 or without obtaining burial orders in terms of the Burial and Cremation Act, Chapter 5:03.
</blockquote>
Asst Comm Nyathi said police will release more details in due course as investigations unfold.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Madzibaba Ishmael, 7 Others Arrested For Various Criminal Activities - Police

Chief Makoni recently overturned the ruling by a headman’s court that had found a villager guilty of having an affair with his neighbour’s wife.
The complainant, Taurai Nyamukachi, claimed that his children informed him that their mother was having an illicit affair with a neighbour, Arthur Mugoti.
Nyamukachi of Maparura Village approached Chief Makoni’s court after Mugoti allegedly reneged on his pledge to compensate him for having an affair with his wife when the matter was brought before Headman Maparura’s court.
According to <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/children-sell-out-cheating-mom/">The Manica Post</a>, Nyamukachi told Chief Makoni’s court that his children and other villagers tipped him off about the alleged affair between Mugoti and his wife, which led to their divorce. He said:
<blockquote>
Whenever I was away from home, Mugoti would visit my homestead. He would take my wife away and bring her back in the evening.
I was informed of this development by my own children who were fed up with their mother’s unbecoming behaviour.
Fellow villagers whom I had contracted to sink a well at my homestead also informed me of Mugoti’s frequent visits to my homestead during my absence.
At one time Mugoti came during the evening when I was around and my wife rushed to the door to inform him of my presence. My son who is doing Form Four saw him.
My son and his sibling informed me that their mother and Mugoti were seeing each other.
I reported the matter to Headman Maparura’s court. Mugoti pleaded guilty before the court and was fined a beast and three goats but he is now refusing to pay the fine.
Before the matter appeared at the village court, my mother-in-law gave me a divorce token and took her daughter away.
We are divorced now. I want Mugoti to compensate me with eight cattle for ruining my marriage.
</blockquote>
However, Mugoti denied the allegations, saying he only visited Nyamukachi’s homestead to buy tomatoes and was never in a relationship with his wife. Said Mugoti:
<blockquote>
I visited Nyamukachi’s homestead twice to buy tomatoes. He later called me to his homestead and confronted me about dating his wife and I denied that.
He took the matter to the headman’s court, but he failed to provide evidence of my alleged affair with his wife.
He later shifted goalposts and said I should pay him for setting foot on his homestead. I was fined a beast and two goats and I am disputing the ruling.
</blockquote>
In its ruling, Chief Makoni’s court cleared Mugoti of any wrongdoing, saying Nyamukachi had failed to provide evidence to prove the alleged illicit relationship between Mugoti and his ex-wife.
The court quashed the headman’s ruling and said visiting someone’s homestead does not constitute cheating, adding “One cannot be fined for visiting a neighbour’s homestead”.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chief Makoni's Court Quashes A Headman's Ruling In Adultery Case

So we now have a WhatsApp Channel. It’s early days but we think it’s going to be one of the key ways you consume the Pindula content.
Here’s the Pindula Channel link:
<a href="https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va84dngJP21B2nWeyM3v">https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va84dngJP21B2nWeyM3v </a>
Please open it from your phone.
<h2>What to expect from the Pindula Channel?</h2>
As always, the trustworthiness and usefulness of updates is very important to us here at Pindula.
We will post Zimbabwe news updates, regional (especially South Africa as we have so many of us there), and also some relevant international news.
From time to time, you will also get useful product updates from our <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/market/">Pindula Market</a>.

Join The Pindula WhatsApp Channel - Here's the link

Pindula is shutting down the marketplace for now.
 —-
If you have no time to read the background, here’s what you need to know:
<ul>
<li>We have removed the marketplace from our website: www.pindula.co.zw</li>
<li>You can still access it via our <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=co.zw.pindula.news&amp;hl=en&amp;gl=US">mobile app</a></li>
<li>Around 30 November, we will eventually remove it from the mobile app too.</li>
<li>We plan to re-introduce the marketplace again in the future, once we have solved the problems we faced. No dates.</li>
<li>You can send any questions or feedback to me (Limbikani) on WhatsApp 0772464000 or email hello(at)pindula.com</li>
</ul>
—
<h2>Now for the background</h2>
We introduced the marketplace in 2021 to provide the Pindula community a means to buy and sell to each other. We wanted to solve the problem of trust between online buyers and seller in Zimbabwe. It is a big problem.
<h3>(Not) Solving trust</h3>
We <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2022/03/31/pindula-market-now-has-over-2000-products-thank-you/">had some early success</a> getting sellers to list their products and buyers browsing through them. But the main problem we wanted to solve – trust – remained unsolved. It’s harder than we anticipated.
We are not able to process payments for the products in the marketplace. Without payments, it’s hard to establish a marketplace, let alone a trusted one. In addition, solving trust also requires some on-the-ground work (offline that is) with the sellers. We don’t have the resources or organisation for this yet.
We also realised that our platform is not solving enough problems for the sellers to incentivise good behaviour. This means our leverage in solving the problems, is really low.
In the end, our platform has been an advertising one, instead of a marketplace. We didn’t set out to build an advertising business, for <a href="https://www.techzim.co.zw/2019/09/the-contradiction-of-techzim-business-models-are-hard-techzim10/">reasons we have outlined before</a>. So we were stuck. 
<h3>Getting Unstuck… Pindula Phones</h3>
We still need to make Pindula a viable business . Oh yes, in case you  were wondering – Pindula doesn’t make enough money to run itself yet. We are funded by the work at Techzim, and just sheer commitment by the staff here.
We still think that we have built a trusted brand and that this positions us well to build a marketplace and other things.
So, to understand selling online and solve its problems, we decided to become sellers ourselves. Last year, we introduced Pindula Phones. Our objective is that if we succeed – we can extend the methods, tools and platform to other sellers. Ofcourse there is value in just succeeding, period – we are building a business not a charity organisation.
There are some good signals so far. The people that have bought phones on Pindula tell us it’s a refreshing experience, and they refer their friends. Needless to say, we’re excited about this.
But it’s taking a lot work and, because of it, we have not done any work on the marketplace in a long time now. Those of you who are sellers know this. Apart from the issues I’ve mentioned above, there are many usability problems with the marketplace that need attention. But why spend time fixing usability issues when the whole concept has unresolved problems?
This is why we have decided to shut the marketplace down for now.
<h3>What to do for those affected</h3>
For those that were paying to advertise through the marketplace and our WhatsApp platform, we are shutting down this tool as well.
We have built some relationships with a few businesses who pay to advertise. These particular businesses can continue to advertise on Pindula, but the bookings will take place offline via WhatsApp conversations.
We will not be taking any new paying advertisers. It’s not that we’re being arrogant in refusing the money. Oh, trust me, we need the money. It’s just that advertising will not help us much. Facebook, Instagram, and Google Ads just do the job so much better than us and we haven’t figured out how to do it better.
As usual, we are thankful for all the support you continue to give us as we build this. We love creating useful content for fellow Africans. We love being useful to you. That’s our work. That’s our thanks to you.

Note: We're Shutting Down The Marketplace... for now

A man from Kuwadzana suburb, Harare, claims he had sexual intercourse with his mother-in-law at a traditional healer (sangoma)’s shrine for ritual purposes when they were both in South Africa.
The man, Blessing Moyo, made the startling claims after his wife Rutendo Mutukwa took her belongings and deserted him.
Moyo said her intimate encounter with his mother-in-law, Tambudzayi Mukandi, for ritual purposes, rendered him impotent, resulting in his wife leaving him.
Angered by her son-in-law’s allegations, Mukandi made a police report against him, accusing him of calling her a witch.
Moyo and Mukandi were expected to face each other in court on Tuesday, 11 July.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/man-beds-mother-in-law-ritual-act-ends-up-destroying-marriage/">H-Metro</a>, Moyo said the sangoma instructed him to have sexual intercourse with Mukandi and also to bed his wife in full view of his mother-in-law. He said:
<blockquote>
I regret being lured into rituals by my mother-in-law for the love of money which I never got.
My mother-in-law convinced me and my wife to consult a sangoma sometime in 2017.
We were instructed to take off all our clothes, and I was told to have sexual intercourse with my mother-in-law and later with my wife in full view of my mother-in-law.
Ndakazotemwa nyora kumusana nemuchiuno namai vemudzimai.
Ipapo ndipo pandinofunga kuti ndakatorerwa simba rose.
Ndakatorerwa chiwuno changu uye handichabvumidzwe kuona vana vangu.
I caused a scene in Glen View where my children are staying and exposed the rituals out of anger, and she took the matter to the police.
</blockquote>
Mukandi confirmed her fallout with Blessing to H-Metro, but refused to shed more light on the matter saying the case is now being handled by the police.
Rutendo is reported to have been admitted to a hospital in South Africa and could not be reached for comment by the publication.
She was reportedly beaten up by her uncles after she accused her mother of wrecking her marriage.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Man Claims His Marriage Collapsed After He Bedded Mother-in-law At A Sangoma's Shrine

Football fans in the mining town of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Shamva">Shamva </a>are relishing the prospect of experiencing Premier Soccer League (PSL) football after the the mining town’s flagship team Simba Bhora, secured promotion.  
Simba Bhora, owned by mining tycoon Simba ‘Buju’ Ndoro,  won the Northern Region Division One last year to earn promotion into the PSL.
The team, which is now being coached by former Dynamos coach <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Tonderai_Ndiraya">Tonderai ‘Stanza’ Ndiraya</a>, will play their home games at Wadzanai Stadium in Shamva, which is currently being renovated to meet PSL standards.  
Trymore Bore, a staunch Simba Bhora fan based in Shamva, told Pindula News in a telephone interview that football fans in the nickel-rich town cannot wait for the season to start in March. 
<blockquote>
We are very excited. We have been supporting this team since it was in Division 2, with the hope that one day we will have Premiership football. It has finally happened and we are excited. 
</blockquote>
Chamunoda Pukuti, another Shamva-based Simba fan, is looking forward to seeing traditional giants of Zimbabwean football Dynamos, Highlanders and CAPS United,  in Shamva.
<blockquote>
The idea of seeing the big three playing against out team is mind-blowing, we are really looking forward to it. We will support our team through thick and thin.
</blockquote>
In an attempt to strengthen their squad ahead of their debut season in the PSL, Simba Bhora have so far ropped in former Warriors winger <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Talent_Chawapiwa">Talent Chawapiwa, </a>former Dynamos captain <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Partson_Jaure">Partson Jaure </a>and <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Blessing_Moyo">Blessing Moyo</a>, previously with defending league champions FC Platinum.
<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a>

Shamva Town Braces For Premiership Football

The Department of Veterinary Services has raised an Anthrax awareness alert in Makoni District, Manicaland Province.
The bacterial illness, which is rare but dangerous, affects animals but human beings in contact with the affected animals can also get infected.  
Rusape Town Council instructed farmers in a statement that for the next 30 days, no livestock can stray to other areas, in a move aimed at preventing the spreading of Anthrax. Said the Council:
<blockquote>
Rusape Town Council would like to advise its valued residents and stakeholders that the
Department of Veterinary Services has issued an anthrax outbreak alert at Dombo AHMC and
Bingaguru AHMC in Makoni District. 
No livestock (Cattle, Sheep or Goats) from the mentioned areas maybe moved or allowed to stray to other areas for the next thirty days.
Members of the public are being warned against consuming, purchasing or selling livestock suspected to have died from anthrax. In addition, suspicious sickness or sudden death of animals or illegal movement of animals must be reported to the police and the Department of Veterinary services.
Butcheries and abattoirs in and around Rusape and the whole Makoni district are urged to be
extra vigilant in guarding against procuring anthrax contaminated livestock.
</blockquote>
 <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News </a>

Anthrax Wave Hits Manicaland Province

<h2>Livukile, Mangwanani, Good morning to everyone here on Pindula,</h2>
First, a belated happy new year 😎
We thank you for being part of this amazing community. It's such an honour working for such a community and we don't take it for granted. Thank you.
 
<h3>Now to the comments,</h3>
Despite our efforts to moderate the comments, we still find there are abusive comments that stay on the site for too long before moderators find them.
Our objective is that the comments provide the Pindula community with an opportunity to add their different views to the article and that we all learn from each other.
We want the comments to be interesting, to add to the value of the article
It's hard for this to happen if we are insulting and accusing each other of things. 
 
<h3>You can help us deal with abusive comments. Here's how:</h3>
Just below every comment, there's a link on the right that says "Report Abuse". 
If the comment is abusive, just click on this link. You will be asked for the reason you think it's abusive. If you don't have time, just put a fullstop and click "Submit"
When you do this, our moderators are advised immediately and they deal with the abusive comment.
 
<h3>What is an abusive comment?</h3>
Any comment insulting the subject of an article or others in the comments
Any comment using vulgar
Any comment encouraging illegal activities; violence, rape, statutory rape
 
However, remember that, just because you don't agree with someone's opinion does not mean they have posted an abusive comment.

You can help us deal with abusive comments. Here's how

It’s <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mopane_Worms">Mopane Worm</a> season in Zimbabwe. Here are some things that you probably didn’t know about the worm.
<h2>1. Mopane worms become a moth</h2>
The worm is actually the larval stage of a moth called the Emperor Moth. The life cycle of the Emperor Moth begins with the adult moths laying eggs on the leaves of the mopane tree. The egg hatches the worm and eventually, the worm’s body becomes, pupae and then the moth. The best time to harvest Mopane is just before they become pupae.
<h2>2. Mopane worms are also farmed</h2>
They are not just found in the wild. These worms can be farmed. In Zimbabwe, <a href="https://twitter.com/mopanep?lang=en">Mopane Worms Enterprises</a> is dedicated to the commercial farming of edible insects. The company sells mopane worms, mopane worms eggs, pupae, and moths.
In fact in 2005 one NGO released a short book called The “Farming Mopane Worms” guide which was available in English, Shona, and Ndebele.
<h2>3. Not just a Zimbabwean delicacy</h2>
Zimbabweans that have traveled beyond the country’s borders will tell you that Mopane worms are a delicacy in many countries in Southern Africa including South Africa (Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces), Zambia, Botswana, and northern Namibia.
<h2>4. Mopane worms numbers are decreasing</h2>
Mopane worms are on the decline though specific numbers are hard to come by. The biggest threat to the worms is over-harvesting which happens because of economic difficulties. People overharvest to consume as well as to sell for a living.
In Zimbabwe, the <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/mopane-worm-harvesters-flood-matabeleland-region/">Parks and Wildlife Management Authority mount roadblocks</a> to monitor and prevent the overharvesting of the worms.
Mopane worms are also threatened by the cutting down of Mopane trees during harvesting. People do it to reach Mopane worms at the tops of the tree.
The Zimbabwe forestry commission also monitors and educates harvesters to stop cutting down Mopane trees.
<h2>5. Vernacular names</h2>
Mopane worms are known by the following vernacular names in Southern:
<ul>
<li>Zimbabwe: Macimbi in Ndebele, Madora or Mashonja in Shona, Mahonja in Kalanga</li>
<li>Botswana: Phane in Tswana</li>
<li>South Africa: Mašotša in Sotho, Mashonzha in Venda, Matamani in Tsonga, Iinnondo in Zulu</li>
<li>Zambia: Ifishimu in Bemba </li>
<li>Namibia: Omagungu in Ovambo, Oshuungu in Oshikwanyama</li>
<li>DRC: Mingolo in Kongo</li>
</ul>

5 Things About Mopane Worms You Probably Didn't Know

Community village health workers, formerly known as village health workers, have appealed to be recognised in the National Budget so that they are paid commensurate to their role as frontline workers.
They made the appeal during the National Stakeholder engagement meeting organized by the Community Working Group on Health (CWGH) on Thursday.
Concilia Mukarati, a community health worker said they last got their meagre allowances which come with deductions in 2019. She said:
<blockquote>
When we were trained. We were promised how we would work in the community, but nothing materialized.
We were told we would get an allowance at the end of the month the allowance was USD15 per month and a dollar is deducted for the bicycles.
The USD15 allowance is supposed to come quarterly and from 2019 to date, we haven’t been paid. It comes in a staggered manner that we won’t know when it last came.
We walked door to door sensitising the villagers on the importance of vaccinating their children and at times we faced resistance.
But when it comes to payment, they said they would pay four or 10 community health workers, yet we are 25.
When donors come with their programs, we will be working with them through the health and Child Care ministry but when it comes to payment, we are left out.
</blockquote>
Mukarati pleaded for an upward review of their allowances saying that the USD15 was not enough for them to sustain their families. She said:
<blockquote>
The USD15 we get is measly and we are asking that you relay information that the USD15 cannot buy my groceries to sustain my family as I am a widow.
When you are making this budget, may you please consider us because we are doing most of the work.
We refer patients to nurses for we are the village’s first port of call. When it comes to payment, we are tossed aside as other business.
</blockquote>
Buhera Central legislator Mathew Nyashanu promised to take the village health workers’ concerns to the Finance and Economic Development Minister Mthuli Ncube. Said Nyashanu:
<blockquote>
My dear sisters, the village health workers, I take your plight. I understand where you are coming from. I am a rural MP. I happen to work with you in rural communities.
Apparently, I am the MP for Buhera Central Constituency. So Buhera Central you know where it is, it is right in the centre of a poor community, and these are the challenges we meet with every day.
People died when they gathered during the COVID-19 pandemic at its height, and you would give them education. So those are the challenges we faced together.
But we are going to make representations in Parliament this year so that we try and convince the Finance minister.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://healthtimes.co.zw/2022/10/21/village-health-workers-complain-of-paltry-allowances/">Health Times</a>

Village Health Workers Complain Over "Paltry" Allowances

The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ)’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) has accused some banks of engaging in the illegal purchase of foreign currency on the parallel market.
FIU now intends to conduct an audit into accounts used by banks in the so-called illicit forex dealings.
FIU director-general Oliver Chiperesa’s correspondence to banks dated 11 May 2022, reads:
<blockquote>
<h2>Directive to disclose suspense and other internal accounts</h2>
1. The Financial Intelligence Unit has noted that some banks may be using suspense and other internal accounts under various descriptions for purpose of purchasing foreign currency on the parallel market. In the result, we intend to carry out an audit of such accounts
2. To facilitate the planning of the audit, every bank is required to furnish to the Financial Intelligence Unit, a list of all the bank’s suspense accounts and other internal accounts used by the bank for its own transactions. The information should be provided to the FIU by no later than Friday 13th of May 2022
3. Subsequent to receiving this information, the FIU may request detailed bank statements for all or some of the accounts. The FIU will take a serious view of a failure to disclose any particular account as requested therein.
May you be guided accordingly.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h4>

RBZ To Audit Bank Accounts Over Alleged Illicit Forex Dealings

A United Methodist Church pastor was allegedly robbed, drugged and gang-raped by four men from Epworth who had broken into her house in Dema in September 2021.
The accused persons are Ronald Mambo (32), Palace Gwinhi (30), Tinashe Nyamayaro (34) and Cuthbert Homakoma (32).
The suspects pleaded not guilty when they appeared before Chitungwiza regional magistrate Clever Tsikwa facing two counts of robbery and rape.
The trial is expected to continue on 4 May with the complainant giving her account.
Prosecutor Trinity Nyandebvu alleged that on 16 September 2021, at around 11 pm, the accused persons broke into the complainant’s house.
They reportedly threatened to assault her with iron bars and knobkerries if she tried to call for help.
It is further alleged that the assailants demanded valuables and they ransacked the house and robbed the complainant of US$250 cash.
The suspects also stole an Acer laptop, two Tecno cellphones, a car battery, five blankets, an exhaust sealer and groceries among other things.
The four men then ordered the complainant to drink a sour substance from a wild cat container and the complainant felt weak.
Homakoma allegedly forcefully raped the complainant twice without using protection.
The court further heard that the complainant made a report to the police and was referred to the hospital where she was medically examined.
Meanwhile, on 8 December 2021, Mambo and Gwinhi were arrested on other charges and after interrogation, they implicated the other two accomplices leading to their arrest.
On 9 December 2021, the four accused persons were placed on a formal identification parade which was recorded by a static camera.
The complainant positively identified Homakoma as the one who raped her on the day in question.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/pastor-robbed-raped-by-gang/">The Herald</a></h4>

Pastor Robbed, Drugged And Gang-raped

The Marriages Bill was passed by the National Assembly this Wednesday following amendments to a clause on payment of lobola.
The legislation <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/06/12/lobola-no-longer-a-barrier-in-solemnising-marriage-between-2-consenting-adults-new-marriage-bill/">initially passed</a> the National Assembly in 2020 but Senate objected to the clause on lobola.
Traditional leaders in Senate, led by the Chiefs Council president, Chief Fortune Charumbira, <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/08/20/chiefs-block-passage-of-lobola-law-in-senate/">objected to a clause that said payment of lobola</a> could not be regarded as a barrier in solemnising marriage between two consenting adults if they satisfy other requirements of the law.
The traditional leaders said lobola was a fundamental pillar in customary unions. 
They shot down the bill and was sent back to the National Assembly for amendments. 
There was a debate on social media when the Bill passed the National Assembly in 2020 with some saying lobola should be scrapped totally. 
Proponents of this reasoning argued that men were using lobola to abuse women in Marriages. 
Conservatives objected saying lobola was a necessity for uniting families. 
Others said while lobola was not a bad thing, families are now abusing it, taking their daughters as business commodities thereby defeating the essence of the process.
The new amendments allow marriage officers, who include traditional leaders solemnising customary unions in their own areas to ask parties to marriage whether or not lobola has been paid.
The amendments also provide that a marriage officer in a customary union cannot solemnise unions where couples had stayed together for less than five years. 
Meanwhile, there is <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/05/01/payment-of-lobola-not-a-legal-requirement/">no law that compels Zimbabwean men to pay lobola</a> (bride price) to their in-laws and the arrangement can only be done with the consent of both parties.
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/marriages-bill-passed/">The Herald</a>

The Marriages Bill Passed After Revision Of Caluse On Lobola

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has received US$5.7 million from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to support people experiencing vulnerability to food insecurity across urban and rural areas.
This brings USAID’s contributions to over US$45 million over the last year.
Urban populations will benefit from the contribution through WFP’s Urban Resilience Building Programme which aims to reach up to 140,000 households across 19 urban domains. 
Additionally, 14 000 rural households in eight districts will receive support through WFP’s Food Assistance for Assets Programme. Both programmes will develop community skills and create assets to better prepare communities with sustainable livelihood 
opportunities – and improve their capacity to cope with shocks such as COVID-19 and climate change. Said USAID Acting Mission Director Zeb Simpson:
<blockquote>
The United States will continue to bring critical food assistance to the most vulnerable Zimbabweans. At the same time, we are working to equip households and communities with the skills and resources they need to overcome the shocks and challenges they face.
</blockquote>
The situation is of particular concern in urban areas, where 42 per cent of the population are estimated to be food insecure, many impacted by the loss of informal jobs. 
Innovative projects like hydroponics will be established in and around cities- which encourages food production through environmentally sustainable techniques. This will empower communities with the tools required to grow and sell food to generate income as many urban livelihoods have been devastated by COVID-19. 
Complementary skills building will also be provided to communities such as financial literacy, vocational and digital skills, marketing and micro-business management training.
The rural resilience activities will support community-based asset building, promote village savings and lending groups, and provide training on improving crop storage conditions to reduce harvest loss. In exchange for participation, food assistance will be provided to supplement shortfalls during the upcoming lean season. 
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

USAID Donates US$5.7 Million To WFP For Vulnerable People In Zimbabwe

Villagers in Chivi’s Ward 20 successfully teamed up with prominent businessman Mr Alex Mashamhanda to electrify a local primary school in the area.
They are also in the process of upgrading another school in the area into a boarding institution.
The community say the electrification of Chikore Primary School in Sese will give their children an opportunity to learn to use information communication technology (ICT) and enhance learning through research.
Villagers say the electrification of the school and building of hostels at Danhamombe High School to transform it into a boarding school, is in line with the Government’s rural development agenda that is also in synchronisation with Vision 2030.
Mr Mashamhanda, who is the founder of Mashwede Holdings and was born and bred in Ward 20 says what the Chivi folk is doing resonated with President Mnangagwa’s mantra that “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo.”
Chikore Primary School was the only school in the area not connected to electricity with others namely St Simon Zhara Primary, Danhamombe High, Mandiva and Run’ai Primary schools having been connected long back.
The school’s headmaster Mr Nhamo Shindi paid tribute to Mr Mashamhanda and the local community saying the move will enhance learning, research and also attract more teachers.
Chikore Primary School was built in 1957 and its enrolment has been falling to the current 375 pupils as students and teachers shunned it owing to its lack of electricity. 
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/chivi-villagers-team-up-to-electrify-school-start-work-on-boarding-institution/">The Herald</a>

Mashwede Holdings Founder, Chivi Villagers Electrify Local School

An official in the Ministry of Energy and Power Development has said Zimbabwe will spend about US$200 million on power imports this year. 
The imports are meant to bridge the deficit created by depleted internal production.
Gloria Magombo, the permanent secretary in the Energy Ministry told Standardbusiness that while imports were helping to power the economy, expansion projects currently underway would transform Zimbabwe into a net exporter. Magombo said:
<blockquote>
The country needs between 50 megawatts (MW) and 400MW of power to cover peak and standard demand and also depending on how the internal generation is doing, the bill will vary from US$10 million to US$18 million a month… 
New generation capacity projects are under construction and some are being commissioned. These include the Hwange 7 and 8 coming online by 2022, independent power producers, about 60 megawatts by end of year whist others are at different levels of project development.
</blockquote>
In the past few months, local power utility, the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) reintroduced load shedding to save power. 
Both domestic and industrial consumers have suffered load shedding of up to 10 hours a day. 
Zimbabwe imports electricity from regional peers, South Africa and Mozambique, as well as generally through the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP), a grouping of the region’s major power stations. 
Magombo speaks as foreign currency shortages that have unsettled the market for over three years continued, with authorities calling for import substitution products to reduce exportation of the United States Dollar.
More: <a href="https://thestandard.newsday.co.zw/2021/11/07/electricity-imports-cost-zimbabwe-us200-million/">The Standard</a>

Zimbabwe To Spend US$200 Million On Power Imports

The British Airways network has announced the suspension of the short-haul London Gatwick operation. 
This comes after the airline, for the past year and a half, suspended most routes to and from the airport or operating from Heathrow. 
British Airways says it has been losing money on European flights from London Gatwick for years. To remain competitive in the coming years, the airline had hoped to shake up its operations from the airport drastically. 
Several weeks ago, <a href="https://simpleflying.com/british-airways-gatwick-short-haul/">the airline issued a proposal to launch a low-cost subsidiary from London Gatwick</a>.
BALPA, the pilots union, isn’t on board with the proposals. Their Acting General Secretary, Martin Chalk, commented:
<blockquote>
Despite our best efforts, BALPA was unable to reach an agreement with British Airways on revised Terms and Conditions for London Gatwick (LGW) Short-haul, that was acceptable to our members.
</blockquote>

<ul>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/05/16/british-airways-resume-zimbabwe-south-africa-flights/">British Airways Resume Zimbabwe – South Africa Flights</a></li>
</ul>
As a result of BALPA’s decision not to support the proposal, British Airways has decided to indefinitely suspend all short-haul flying from London Gatwick. 
An airline spokesperson told Simple Flying that they were disappointed with BALPA’s decision, adding:
<blockquote>
After many years of losing money on European flights from the airport, we were clear that coming out of the pandemic, we needed a plan to make Gatwick profitable and competitive. With regret, we will now suspend our short-haul operations at Gatwick.
</blockquote>
Moving forward, the airline has said it will pursue alternative uses for its London Gatwick slots. Head for Points believes that British Airways has several options when it comes to its slots. 
The airline could redistribute them to other IAG airlines such as Vueling or LEVEL or sell the slots.
British Airways isn’t the first to throw the towel in at London Gatwick Airport since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Early on last year, the airline’s rival Virgin Atlantic pulled its long-haul operations out of the airport. 
More: <a href="https://simpleflying.com/british-airways-london-gatwick-short-haul-suspended/?utm_source=pop">SimpleFlying</a>

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