Air Lieutenant Nesbert Tambudza, a pilot in the Airforce of Zimbabwe, died when the K-8 jet trainer he was flying crashed in the Guinea Fowl area near Gweru.
According to a statement from the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) on February 6, the crash happened about 5 kilometres east of Guinea Fowl, and the plane was badly damaged when it hit the ground.
Fortunately, no one on the ground was hurt, and there was no damage to property. The statement reads:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) is saddened to announce the death of a young pilot, Air Lieutenant Nesbert Tambudza, who died after the Karakorum-8 (K-8) jet trainer aircraft that he was flying crashed in the Guinea Fowl area in Gweru.
The unfortunate accident happened when the pilot was on a solo consolidation general handling navigation training.
The Commander Zimbabwe Defence Forces, General PV Sibanda, said that the news of the death of Air Lieutenant Tambudza had been received with heavy hearts and all Officers and Members were in mourning over the sad loss of a talented pilot.
On behalf of Officers, men and women of the ZDF, the Commander Zimbabwe Defence Forces wishes to express his heartfelt condolences to the family, relatives, friends and colleagues of our departed Officer, Air Lieutenant Tambudza.
Air Lieutenant Tambudza was a young pilot who had demonstrated immense potential and was therefore selected to undergo a jet flying conversion training course at Number 2 Squadron, Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base in Gweru. At the time of his death, he was in the final phases of training on the K-8 jet.
The accident occurred about 5 kilometers East of Guinea Fowl and on impact with the ground the aircraft was extensively damaged.
There were no civilian casualties and damage to property on the ground.
In the meantime, the Air Force of Zimbabwe has constituted a Board of Inquiry to investigate the cause of the accident.
Arrangements for the funeral parade and burial for Air Lieutenant Tambudza will be announced in due course.
</blockquote>

Pindula News

Air Lieutenant Nesbert Tambudza, a pilot in the Airforce of Zimbabwe, died when the plane he was flying crashed near Gweru. The crash happened while he was on solo training. The Airforce is sad about his death. He was a talented pilot being trained on a K-8 jet. The plane crashed without hurting anyone on the ground. The Air Force is investigating why the crash happened. The funeral arrangements for Air Lieutenant Tambudza will be announced later. The Air Force is mourning the loss of the young pilot.

Airforce Of Zimbabwe Pilot Killed In Plane Crash Near Gweru

On Thursday, January 2, 2025, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, the Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF), promoted 27 officers in the Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ).
The promotions included two Air Commodores, 11 Group Captains, and 16 Wing Commanders. However, one Air Commodore and one Group Captain are currently out of the country on duty.
The promotions were made under Section 15 (1) (b) of the Defence Act, which states:
<blockquote>
His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe and Commander in Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces may, on the advice of the minister acting on the recommendation of the commander, promote or temporarily appoint an officer to a higher rank.
</blockquote>
Speaking during the promotion of Air and Senior officers ceremony at the Josiah Magama Tongogara Barracks in Harare, Commander Air Force of Zimbabwe Air Marshal John Jacob Nzvede said:
<blockquote>
Having earned this promotion, it is a joyous moment for the elevated individuals and the organisation. The next step is to justify this elevation by performing to the expected standards.
The Airforce of Zimbabwe and the nation are faced with several challenges that require ingenuity. I therefore challenge the promoted officers and all officers in the Airforce of Zimbabwe to go beyond the routine tasks to become innovative leaders.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

President Mnangagwa promoted 27 Air Force of Zimbabwe officers on January 2, 2025. The promotions included two Air Commodores, 11 Group Captains, and 16 Wing Commanders. Two officers were out of the country on duty. The promotions were made under a law that allows the President to promote officers to higher ranks. The Commander of the Air Force of Zimbabwe, Air Marshal John Jacob Nzvede, encouraged the promoted officers to perform well and be innovative leaders. He said the Air Force and the country face challenges that need creative solutions.

Mnangagwa Promotes 27 Air Force Of Zimbabwe Officers

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga said that Air Chief Marshal (Retired) Elson Moyo is in stable condition and receiving medical care at a hospital in Harare following a road accident near Chegutu earlier this week.
Chiwenga visited the former Commander of the Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) on Friday to assess his condition and convey his best wishes.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/rtd-air-chief-marshal-moyo-in-stable-condition/">The Herald</a> afterwards, Chiwenga, himself a retired Army General, said the Government is confident in his recovery and remains committed to supporting him, while he recuperates from the injuries. He said:
<blockquote>
Air Chief Marshal (Rtd) Elson Moyo was a colleague and is a colleague, when he got involved in an accident from his farm it was of great concern and we wanted to see how his condition was.
He was airlifted to Manyame Air Base and then to the hospital for specialist medical care. I visited him at the hospital because I wanted to be satisfied that he was in good condition.
We were quite concerned when we got the news that he was involved in that accident, only to find out that yes, there are areas here and there where he has pain, but mostly they are muscle pains, but generally he is fine.
We think when the doctors do their final check-up, they will be able to tell that he is now fine, but when we saw him, he was in very good morale and soon he will be discharged.
</blockquote>
Chiwenga revealed that Moyo is one of the first qualified group of fighter jet pilots who were deployed to the AFZ after independence. He said:
<blockquote>
We have worked together for a long time since the time of our struggle for the independence of our country and then from 1980 as you would know, he was a trained pilot.
He was one of our first group of jet (fighter) pilots, even when we went for the Mozambique campaign.
</blockquote>
A leaked internal memorandum from a district intelligence officer in Chegutu reveals that a 67-year-old Moyo was involved in a car accident on October 29 at around 3 PM.
While driving alone, he failed to negotiate a curve, causing his vehicle to veer off the road to the right.
The car then struck a tree before coming to a stop. As a result of the incident, he started experiencing pain in his right hip and shoulder. Reads the memo:
<blockquote>
On the 29th day of October 2024, 1500hours and at 10 kilometre peg along Chegutu-Pickstone Road, Chegutu (Oldham Farm), the sole party, Retired Chief Air Marshal Elson Moyo (former commander of Air Force of Zimbabwe) aged 67 of Concession Hill Farm, Chegutu was driving a silver Toyota Hilux double cab registration number AES3454 in the dust road from his farm towards Chegutu.
Upon reaching the 10km peg, he failed to negotiate a curve. The vehicle veered off the road to the right, hit a tree and landed on its wheels.
The sole party did not sustain any visible injuries but was complaining of a painful right hip and shoulder.
He was taken to Chegutu District Hospital by a well-wisher, where he was airlifted to Harare by Air Ambulance (helicopter). His condition is stable.
</blockquote>
The top-of-the-range car involved in the accident had its front right wheel dislodged, along with damage to the right headlamp and front fender.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Air Chief Marshal (Retired) Elson Moyo had a road accident but is in stable condition and getting medical help in Harare. Vice President Chiwenga visited him and said he's doing well. Moyo is a former high-ranking military officer and one of the first fighter jet pilots in Zimbabwe. The accident happened when he failed to make a turn and hit a tree. His car got damaged, but he only had pain in his hip and shoulder. He's expected to recover soon. Chiwenga and the government are supporting Moyo during his recovery.

Rtd Air Chief Marshal Moyo In Stable Condition, Says VP Chiwenga

Former Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) Commander Retired Chief Air Marshal Elson Moyo survived a car accident on Tuesday afternoon while driving from his Concession Hill Farm near Chegutu.
The 67-year-old was driving alone when he failed to negotiate a curve, causing his vehicle to veer off the road to the right. The car struck a tree before coming to rest on its wheels.
According to a leaked internal memorandum from a Chegutu police district intelligence officer addressed to his provincial superior, Moyo sustained injuries to his right arm and shoulder in the incident. Reads the memo:
<blockquote>
On the 29th day of October 2024, 1500hours and at 10 kilometre peg along Chegutu-Pickstone Road, Chegutu (Oldham Farm), the sole party, Retired Chief Air Marshal Elson Moyo (former commander of Air Force of Zimbabwe) aged 67 of Concession Hill Farm, Chegutu was driving a silver Toyota Hilux double cab registration number AES3454 in the dust road from his farm towards Chegutu.
Upon reaching the 10km peg, he failed to negotiate a curve. The vehicle veered off the road to the right, hit a tree and landed on its wheels.
The sole party did not sustain any visible injuries but was complaining of a painful right hip and shoulder.
He was taken to Chegutu District Hospital by a well-wisher, where he was airlifted to Harare by Air Ambulance (helicopter). His condition is stable.
</blockquote>
The top-of-the-range car involved in the accident had its front right wheel dislodged, along with damage to the right headlamp and front fender.
The ZRP Chegutu Traffic Department is investigating the suspicious circumstances surrounding the incident under Report Received Book (RRB) Number 5841121.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa “retired” Moyo just hours after a presidential plane aborted its landing at Victoria Falls Airport due to a bomb scare in August 2024.
The reasons behind Moyo’s dismissal were not disclosed, and he was replaced by Air Marshal John Jacob Nzvede.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former Air Force Commander Elson Moyo got hurt in a car crash while driving. He hit a tree and injured his arm and shoulder. He was taken to the hospital and then flown to Harare. The accident is being investigated by the police. Elson Moyo was recently fired by President Emmerson Mnangagwa for reasons not known. The car he was driving got damaged in the crash.

Former Air Force Commander Elson Moyo In Road Traffic Accident

Air Commodore (Retired) Peter Gedion Sheik Zimondi passed away on Friday, September 13, due to injuries sustained in a recent road traffic accident. He was 65 years old.
Air Marshal Jacob John Nzvede, Commander of the Air Force of Zimbabwe, confirmed Zimondi’s death, stating that he succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital. He expressed his condolences, saying:
<blockquote>
He was involved in a road traffic accident and sustained severe injuries that led to his admission to a local hospital until his untimely passing. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Zimondi family and the Air Force of Zimbabwe for this tragic loss. May the Lord Almighty provide comfort during this difficult time.
</blockquote>
Air Marshal Nzvede described Air Commodore Zimondi as a dedicated cadre who served the Air Force of Zimbabwe with distinction since 1981, after receiving his training in Nigeria.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Air Commodore Peter Zimondi died in a car accident. He was 65 years old. The Commander of the Air Force of Zimbabwe confirmed his death and expressed sadness. Zimondi served in the Air Force since 1981. He got his training in Nigeria. Everyone is sad about his passing. The Air Force and his family are grieving. He was described as a good and dedicated person. May he rest in peace.

Air Commodore Peter Zimondi Has Died

An Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) helicopter crashed on Sunday afternoon shortly after takeoff from an airstrip in Masvingo, a senior government official has confirmed.
In a statement, Ndavaningi Mangwana, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, assured the public that “there were no casualties.”
He also said that the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ) has initiated an investigation into the incident. Said Mangwana:
<blockquote>
There was an aviation incident involving one of the Air Force of Zimbabwe helicopters that travelled to Masvingo today. Thankfully there were no casualties.
Civil aviation authorities are investigating and their findings will be shared with the nation when they become available.
</blockquote>
According to <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/mnangagwa-helicopter-crashes-in-masvingo-before-picking-him-up/">ZimLive</a>, the AS-332 “Cougar” VIP helicopter was en route to pick up President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who was attending an event organized by the youth league of his ZANU PF party, when it crashed. A source revealed:
<blockquote>
The Air Force chopper was flying to Bikita to pick him (Mnangagwa) up. The skies were clear, but something catastrophic happened during takeoff.
</blockquote>
This incident is not the first involving an AFZ helicopter in Masvingo Province. In 2018, an Alouette III helicopter carrying then Secretary for Defence and War Veterans Martin Rushwaya made a forced landing in Gutu due to a mechanical fault.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, although the helicopter sustained damage to its wheels and propellers.
The 2018 incident occurred near Ranga School as the helicopter was returning to Harare from Gutu.
Rushwaya believed to be a relative of President Mnangagwa, currently serves as the Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet.
The incident occurred just a month after a tragic plane crash in Masvingo that claimed the lives of five people—three Finns and two Zimbabweans.
The Cessna 182, which was en route to Victoria Falls from Buffalo Range Aerodrome in Chiredzi, crashed at Chamanjirenji Hills near the Tokwane-Ngundu area, close to Renco Mine.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A helicopter from the Air Force of Zimbabwe crashed in Masvingo, but thankfully no one was hurt. The Civil Aviation Authority is investigating the incident. The helicopter was supposed to pick up President Emmerson Mnangagwa. This is not the first time an Air Force helicopter has had problems in Masvingo. In 2018, another helicopter had to make a forced landing due to a mechanical problem. No one was injured in that incident either. There was also a tragic plane crash in Masvingo recently, where five people lost their lives.

Zimbabwe Air Force Helicopter Crashes In Masvingo

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has elevated Air Vice Marshal John Jacob Nzvede to the prestigious rank of Air Marshal within the Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ). 
The legal basis for this promotion, reported by <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/air-marshal-nzvede-officially-takes-over-air-force-command/">The Herald</a>, lies in the Defence Act (Chapter 11:02), specifically Section 20, in conjunction with Statutory Instrument 257 of 2020, Section 19c, Sub-section 2c.
The relevant provision empowers the President, acting on the advice of the Minister of Defence and recommendations from the Commander of Zimbabwe Defence Forces, to reward deserving officers by promoting them to higher ranks.
Air Marshal Nzvede assumes command of the AFZ, succeeding Air Marshal Elson Moyo, who has been retired.
Presiding over the investiture ceremony, Commander Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) General Philip Valerio Sibanda, emphasized the weight of responsibility that accompanies the promotion.
General Sibanda conveyed his congratulations to the new Air Marshal, acknowledging the attributes that led to this advancement. He said:
<blockquote>
On behalf of the men and women of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, I take this opportunity to extend our congratulations to the new Air Marshal. This promotion comes due to your hard work, loyalty, patriotism, and good working ethics in you.
</blockquote>
The timing of this leadership change coincided with an unsettling incident on 01 March 2024 — an email was sent by one John Doe warning of an explosive device at Victoria Falls International Airport.
As a result, President Mnangagwa’s plane altered its course mid-air, returning to Harare instead of proceeding to Victoria Falls.
Subsequently, Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Martin Rushwaya, announced Air Marshal Moyo’s retirement and the appointment of Air Vice Marshal Nzvede as the new Commander of the Airforce of Zimbabwe.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Air Vice Marshal Nzvede Officially Assumes Command Of Airforce Of Zimbabwe

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has retired Air Marshal Elson Moyo and appointed Air Vice Marshal John Jacob Nzvede as the new Commander of the Airforce of Zimbabwe with effect from 15 March 2023.
The President has also appointed Dr Christopher Pamhidzai Pasi as the Secretary to the Health Service Commission.
The appointments were announced by the Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Martin Rushwaya, in a statement issued on Friday, 01 March. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
His Excellency, President Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa has in terms of section 340(1)(f) as read with sections 216(2) and 89 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No.20), retired Air Marshal Elson Moyo as Commander of the Airforce of Zimbabwe with effect from 15th March 2024.
Following the above retirement, His Excellency the President has in terms of sections 216(2), 89 and 110(2)(d) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No.20), appointed Air Vice Marshal John Jacob Nzvede, as the new Commander of the Airforce of Zimbabwe with effect from 15th March 2024.
His Excellency the President has in terms of section 10(1)(a) of the Health Service Amendment Act also appointed Dr Christopher Pamhidza Pasi as Secretary to the Health Service Commission.
Dr Pasi holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery, a Masters in Medicine, a Diploma in Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration and is a Fellow of the College of Physicians in Central and East Africa.
Dr Pasi joined Government in 1993 and rose through the ranks to become Chief Medical Officer at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital, a post he held till this appointment.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mnangagwa Retires Airforce Of Zimbabwe Commander

A top Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) officer has been discharged over his role in an aircraft accident that killed two experienced pilots on 02 February this year.
The AFZ SF260 trainer aircraft flew into electric lines as it struggled to gain height shortly after take-off near Mlezu College in Kwekwe.
Group Captain Bensen Munyanduki, 50, and Wing Commander Daniel Manyenga, 37, died in the accident.
Air Commodore Marcelino Jakuvos Jaya, the Base Commander of the former Thornhill Air Base in Gweru, now Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base, has left the Air Force in disgrace over the accident.
Jaya reportedly gave the instruction to the two pilots to fly the stricken aircraft. <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/top-air-force-chief-sacked-over-doomed-flight-that-killed-2-pilots/">ZimLive</a> quoted a military source as saying:
<blockquote>
A tribunal found that after the aircraft first crash-landed, Air Commodore Jaya was given specific instructions by AFZ Commander Air Marshal Elson Moyo to put the aircraft on a low-bed truck and take it to the air base.
Instead, Jaya ignored a lawful instruction and decided to send our best two pilots on a doomed mission to fly an aircraft that had not been properly assessed by engineers after the earlier incident when it crash-landed.
The aircraft failed to pick up height leading to the tragic deaths of the two pilots.
</blockquote>
ZimLive reported that the SF260 first flew on a training mission to Zvishavane with different pilots.
When the pilots were returning to Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base, they flew into bad weather and were forced to crash-land the aircraft on a dusty road.
AFZ then sent a recovery mission and the two pilots, who had no serious injuries, were transported to the hospital for assessment.
According to ZimLive’s military sources, Air Commodore Jaya ignored instructions from senior officers to recover the aircraft with a truck.
He, instead, instructed Munyanduki and Manyenga to fly the aircraft back to base.
The plane tragically crashed shortly after take-off, robbing the Air Force of two of its experienced pilots.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Top Air Force Of Zimbabwe Officer Fired Over Crash That Killed Two Pilots

Commander of the Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) Air Marshal Elson Moyo has reportedly travelled to Nigeria to ask his counterpart for technical assistance, including in the operation and maintenance of F7 and Mi-35 aircraft.
According to a report by <a href="https://www.defenceweb.co.za/aerospace/aerospace-aerospace/zimbabwe-air-force-asks-nigeria-for-technical-assistance/">Defence Web</a>, citing the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Moyo visited NAF Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao, at NAF Headquarters in late March.
Moyo is reported to have said he would like to pursue technical assistance in the areas of research and development, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology (drones) and the operation and maintenance of F7 and Mi-35 aircraft.
He said areas for collaboration are of common interest to Zimbabwe and Nigeria as their respective air forces operate some similar aircraft (including F7s and Mi-35s).
Moyo noted that the Nigerian Air Force has within a short time recorded “remarkable feats” in its transformation effort to develop indigenous capacity.
He said the Air Force of Zimbabwe’s ability to acquire basic aircraft parts and other equipment was being hampered by sanctions imposed on the country by Western powers.
Zimbabwe’s Air Chief commended the NAF for its support in the past, including training given to the first batch of Zimbabwe pilots in the 1980s.
Amao said that the NAF is ready to forge a mutually beneficial partnership with the Air Force of Zimbabwe.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200009522/ed-demands-re-run-in-violence-hotspots">Pindula News</a>

Air Force Of Zimbabwe Asks Nigeria For Technical Assistance

Four Airforce of Zimbabwe (AFZ) officers are undergoing training on military air traffic control at the South African Air Force (SAAF) Command and Control School at Air Force Base Hoedspruit.
According to a report by <a href="https://www.defenceweb.co.za/aerospace/aerospace-aerospace/saaf-hosting-zimbabwean-students/">defenceWeb</a>, the four AFZ officers are Officer Cadet (OC) Allen Thabiso Moyo, Officer Cadet Benjamin Dambakushamba, Officer Cadet Talent Macharaga, and Officer Cadet Kudakwashe Goba.
The four joined the course at the beginning of this year. Said Dambakushamba:
<blockquote>
South Africa and Zimbabwe have enjoyed good relations from way back, which is why I have already adapted to the environment keeping in mind that South Africa and Zimbabwe are very close neighbours who always boldly display the splendour of this continent through exchange programmes like these.
We miss cooked meals, but we enjoy the learning process that is taking place, we are motivated and we will definitely go home with a lot that will make us sought-after Air Traffic Controllers.
I wish to express my respect to the Air Force for making this opportunity so fulfilling for these students; this school’s reputation speaks for itself and it is definitely sublime.
Most of its graduates are enjoying glorious careers wherever they are in the world and are destined for greatness.
</blockquote>
The course is expected to conclude around September 2023. The modules concluded so far are Visual Aircraft Recognition, Aircraft Instruments and Navigation Aids and Basic Meteorology.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Airforce Of Zimbabwe Officers Undergo Training In South Africa

The Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) has established a board of inquiry to probe circumstances surrounding a plane accident that occurred in Midlands Province recently.
An AFZ SF260 aircraft from the Josiah Tungamirai Airbase, formerly Thornhill Airbase, crashed during routine training near Gweru early this month, killing two members of the force.
Group Captain Ben Munyanduki and Wing Commander Daniel Manyenga perished in the accident after the aircraft crashed into a power line.
The <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/theindependent/local-news/article/200007892/air-force-probes-plane-crashes">Zimbabwe Independent</a> reported sources saying the investigation seeks to ascertain what led to the accident. Said a source:
<blockquote>
In conducting the probe, AFZ was determined to assert its guiding motto that ‘Our Wings are the Fortress of the Nation’ while minimising accidents that claim human lives and destroy critical equipment.
Usually what happens in cases like these is that a board of inquiry constituting experts in the military is assembled.
A detailed report from the scene of the accident is compiled, usually originating from the airbase involved (Josiah Tungamirai).
That report is then forwarded to the Air Force headquarters at Josiah Magama Tongogara barracks (formerly King George VI).
At that stage, the report is assessed and additional recommendations are recorded before it is submitted to the commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) Valerio Sibanda.
The investigation underway will likely follow that procedure.
</blockquote>
Another source was quoted as saying the duration of the investigation was dependent on several factors.
These include the severity of the accident and the process of gathering evidence from multiple sources.
In April 2020, an accident involving an AFZ aircraft SF260 Genet trainer claimed the lives of an instructor and trainee pilot on board.
In April 2021, four people died, including two pilots and an engineer, after an AFZ Augusta Bell 412 (AB412) crashed in Mashonaland East Province.
In June 2021, a Mig-23 gunship helicopter made an emergency landing after it had reportedly developed a technical fault. No casualties were recorded.

Air Force Of Zimbabwe Probes Plane Crashes

The Airforce of Zimbabwe (AFZ) on Friday, 03 February, dismissed as false an advert circulating on social media claiming there will be a massive recruitment exercise by the AFZ in April and May.
In a statement, AFZ Public Relations Officer, Wing Commander Donovan Muroyiwa, said the advert did not originate from the organisation. Read the full statement below:
<blockquote>
<h2>FALSE AFZ RECRUITMENT ADVERT CIRCULATING ON SOCIAL MEDIA</h2>
The Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) notes with great concern a wave of misinformation circulating on social media purposing that there will be a massive recruitment by the AFZ from 25 April to 3 May 2023.
The advert falsely states various trades and provincial centres where aspiring candidates should report on some given dates. The AFZ would want to categorically put it clear that the information is false and was never originated from the organisation.
Furthermore, the AFZ does not convey official messages through social media and undesignated platforms. Any advert on AFZ recruitment will be disseminated and broadcast through mainstream media such as newspapers, radio and television.
The public is, therefore advised to disregard information that is published, disseminated and propagated through unofficial social media sites or immediately verify the authenticity of such information from the AFZ Public Relations Department or Recruitment Office.
</blockquote>

"It's Fake", Airforce Of Zimbabwe Speaks About Mass Recruitment Exercise Advert

An Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) SF260 trainer aircraft, crashed in the Mlezu College general area near Gweru, killing two pilots onboard, <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/afz-trainer-aircraft-crashes-kills-2-pilots/">reported The Herald</a>.
The aircraft was on a routine training sortie when it hit a power line and crashed, killing the two pilots.
AFZ said the names of the deceased will be released after their next of kin have been notified.
In a message after the accident, Commander AFZ, Air Marshal Elson Moyo, said:
<blockquote>
We have learnt with heavy hearts, of the passing on of two of our pilots after a training accident. Right now, our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased pilots.
I want to extend my deepest condolences to the families and friends of the deceased for this sad loss of AFZ pilots who were on duty and playing their part to ensure that the AFZ fulfills its mandate to defend Zimbabwe’s airspace and territorial integrity.
</blockquote>
In April 2021, an AFZ Agusta Bell 412 (AB 412) helicopter crashed in Goromonzi and killed two pilots, Wing Commander Tinashe Thomas Manyowa and Flight-Lieutenant Annita Mapiye, as well as Flight Sergeant Chikamhi, a technician.
The helicopter crashed into a house at Plot 2 of Gardner Road, Ward 16 in Goromonzi, Mashonaland East.

AFZ Trainer Aircraft Crashes In Gweru, Kills 2 Pilots

The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) is underfunded and this has negatively affected the ability of the army to carry out its mandate.
This was said by the Minister of Defence and War Veterans Affairs Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri while making a presentation at the 2023 Parliament pre-budget seminar in Harare on Monday, 24 October.
Muchinguri-Kashiri revealed that the army is not able to keep all personnel in the barracks or provide them with basics such as food and uniforms. She said:
<blockquote>
Let’s invest in our defence forces. My ministry is facing a lot of challenges, and we have inadequate accommodation to keep our forces in the barracks.
If we are adequately provided for, I can assure the nation that we will keep ourselves in the barracks.
What we see in the current situation is that our forces are renting accommodation in the townships, and they are often given names because of inadequate and indecent accommodation — let alone transport, which they also hire.
They are insulted on a daily basis. They sometimes go without food and even uniforms, and these are constitutional requirements.
Their food items have been reduced. Sometimes they have only sadza and beans. This is a serious situation we are faced with.
My fear is that these are young people who sacrifice to create this conducive environment for us to enjoy peace. We appeal for funding from you.
</blockquote>
However, since independence in 1980, the government has prioritised the Defence ministry in budget allocations.
The army is not only one of the top three ministries which always receives the biggest allocation from the Treasury over the years but also runs its own private companies that generate revenue. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200002532/hunger-stalks-army-barracks">NewsDay</a>

Zimbabwe Defence Forces Underfunded, Says Muchinguri-Kashiri

Zimbabwe’s military capabilities have been brought under the spotlight in Russia, where it is competing against 30 other countries at this year’s edition of the International Army Games.
The games are being hosted at the Alabino training range as part of the 8th edition of the games, reported NewZimbabwe.com.
The Zimbabwe team is participating in the games for the first time in two years.
Zimbabwe National Army’s (ZNA) Crew recently competed in the tank biathlon which involves military tanks moving across a field and taking out targets set tens of metres away through its barrel or fume extractor.
The ZNA Crew 1 in Division 2 competed against Iran, South Ossetia and Mali in the tank biathlon and took almost double the time taken by the other three teams.
According to <a href="https://twitter.com/ConflictsW/status/1561408446422999047">CNW</a>, there was a crash at the tank biathlon on Sunday morning as the Iranian crew crashed into the Zimbabwe crewed tank, forcing them off the track.
Then the Zimbabwean team had to be assisted by the Russians after it failed to communicate with its commanders on their last lap. Said CNW:
<blockquote>
And there was another technical fault in the race as the Zimbabwe team was unable to communicate with their commanders/spotters which resulted in a Russian technician having to fix the problem on their last lap.
</blockquote>
Commenting on the development, journalist Hopewell Chon’ono said this should be a wake-up call for the army to focus on military issues and not politics. Chin’ono wrote on Facebook:
<blockquote>
Latest Update from the army games in Russia;
Our boys in uniform continue to do badly at the army games in Russia according to the latest update.
This shouldn’t surprise us because when the politics of a country is wrong, and the State is parasitic, nothing will ever work.
I would have liked our boys to do well at these games because it would have spoken into how safe we are in the face of aggression.
I believe that the Zimbabwean army would have done well with the right training and focus.
I hope this is a wake-up call to all concerned that our army needs to focus on military issues and not politics!
The political crooks use the army to shoot at unarmed civilians and to instil fear into the opposition, yet here we are, it is failing to deliver on army things.
The State media is quiet because there is nothing uplifting to report about, and the irony of using the army against unarmed civilians must be weighing heavily on all concerned!
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/zimbabwe-in-embarrassing-outing-at-russias-army-games-team-failing-to-hit-targets-getting-lost-taking-too-long-to-finish-tasks/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>

Zimbabwe In Embarrassing Outing At Russia’s Army Games

Some Chegutu villagers have narrated the ordeal that they suffered at the hands of members of the Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) on Tuesday last week.
Soldiers from Jason Ziyaphapha Moyo Airbase in Chegutu descended on Kalembo Farm in the dead of night searching for a member of a machete-wielding gang who had attacked a soldier earlier in the day.
The unknown machete gangster had allegedly stabbed a soldier while fighting for a woman at Smifort Bar on Sunday last week.
One of the villagers, Selma Modi (38), said the soldiers should be arrested and rot in jail. Said, Modi:
<blockquote>
I am a mere housewife. I don’t know the alleged machete gangster who injured the soldier. I wasn’t aware of the incident but I was assaulted and injured.
It was so humiliating and dehumanising to be beaten on my back as if I was a child.
They were taking turns beating me using cooking sticks which they took from my kitchen while my 17-year-old son was watching.
My husband watched helplessly as I was being beaten as he had also been savaged. Right now I am not able to sit.
My back is swollen and stiff. The pain is unbearable. The soldiers must be removed from the camp and they must rot in jail.
</blockquote>
The soldiers reportedly stormed the village, breaking doors and windows to gain entry into homes and randomly beating villagers.
After beating them, they detained some, only to release them later.
Some of the victims sustained injuries to their hands and legs while others suffered bruises.
A meeting was convened at Kalembo Farm last Friday where army bosses reportedly pledged to fund medical expenses for the injured villagers.
Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum programmes coordinator Wilbert Mandinde condemned the brutal assault of defenceless villagers by the soldiers. He said:
<blockquote>
The soldiers should be held accountable for what they have done. It is crucial for the government to implement the recommendations of the Motlanthe Commission especially as we are heading towards the 2023 elections.
We can’t continue to see the loss of lives and rights violations like what happened in the aftermath of the 2018 elections.
</blockquote>
The villagers have pleaded with authorities to intervene to protect them from further victimisation.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/05/chegutu-villagers-relive-night-of-terror/">NewsDay</a></h4>

Chegutu Villagers Relive Brutal Assault By Soldiers

An Airforce of Zimbabwe (AFZ) paratrooper was reportedly injured after landing awkwardly while conducting drills at Barbourfields Stadium in Bulawayo and rushed to the hospital.
The paratrooper was among members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) who have been conducting drills at the stadium in preparations for the 42nd Independence Day celebrations to be held on Monday.
CITE reported a source as saying the accident happened in the morning around 10 AM. Said the source:
<blockquote>
There has been a hive of activity at Barbourfields stadium in preparation for the independence day celebrations, the army and other security organs have been doing drills. 
Unfortunately, one of the paratroopers fell while attempting to land.
We saw some medics rushing to the scene to offer assistance to the paratrooper. An ambulance was later summoned and took the injured officer to the hospital.
</blockquote>
In 2017, a parachutist failed to land properly and plunged into the crowd at the National Sports Stadium in Harare during the Zimbabwe Defence Forces day celebrations.
<h4>More: <a href="https://cite.org.zw/afz-paratrooper-injured-in-training-mishap/">CITE</a></h4>

Airforce Parachutist Injured During Independence Day Drills

A helicopter, believed to be an Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) helicopter, reportedly crashed on Sunday near Chibhero College in Mhondoro.
NewsDay reported sources as saying the incident occurred yesterday afternoon near Chibhero College in Mhondoro.
The crash reportedly occurred in the area where a helicopter carrying President Emmerson Mnangagwa was forced to crash land after developing a technical fault several months ago.
The crash site was attended by top military and police officers who cordoned it off, making it inaccessible. Said a source:
<blockquote>
The crash was in the same area where Mnangagwa’s helicopter almost crashed.
The road leading to the accident scene was cordoned off, and no one was allowed there.
We are not yet aware who was involved in the accident, and if there were any casualties.
</blockquote>
AFZ public relations officer, Simon Matingwina yesterday confirmed the crash but said the helicopter did not belong to AFZ. He said:
<blockquote>
I know about the crash, but it was not our helicopter. I think Mhondoro police attended the scene.
</blockquote>
Helicopter crashes involving Air Force of Zimbabwe assets are increasingly becoming common.
In April 2021, an AFZ helicopter, an Agusta Bell AB 412, came down in Arcturus, 30km east of Harare, killing three crew members and a child after it crashed into a house.
Two months later, another chopper, a Mi-35 helicopter gunship, with five aircraft technicians on board crash-landed near Surface Wilmar in Chitungwiza.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/04/another-chopper-goes-down-2/">NewsDay</a></h4>

Another Helicopter Crashes In Mhondoro

Air Force Of Zimbabwe (AFZ) commanders at the Josiah Tungamirai (former Thornhill) Air Base in Gweru have reportedly refused to surrender to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), a soldier who allegedly shot and killed a civilian in Gweru in the wee hours on Christmas Day.
According to a police memo, the soldier, Staff Sergeant Evidence Makuyana, was on patrol when he fatally shot Ziyesa Tsvetera in the back while he was fleeing.
Makuyana was on patrol with a colleague when the duo spotted Tsvetera’s kombi which was parked along Gweru-Mvuma Road near the perimeter of the Air Base.
Makuyana and his colleague approached Tsvetera to question him about what he was doing.
On seeing the armed soldiers, Tsvetera reportedly panicked and started his car and drove off.
Makuyana fired three warning shots into the air, but when Tsvetera did not stop, he fired two shots at the vehicle.
The two soldiers then flagged a motorist who was driving past and the three followed Tsvetera. They caught up with the vehicle at Riverside Roundabout and managed to block him.
That was when the soldiers realised that Tsvetera had been shot in the back and was bleeding profusely.
The police memo read in part:
<blockquote>
Background
Accused is a member of the Airforce of Zimbabwe Stationed at Josiah Tungamirai Airforce Base, Gweru and was on guard duties armed with a Service AK Rifle folding butt Serial Number ZA 37512 loaded with a magazine of 30 rounds.
Circumstances
On 25 December 2021 at around 0100 hours the accused in the company of his workmate Spencer Chihanga N.R [Redacted] aged 23, Rank: Private, Force number [Redacted] were doing perimeter checks. They spotted the now deceased who had parked his motor vehicle, a Toyota Hiace Omnibus registration number AFF 9797 silver in colour at Lingfield turn off along Gweru-Mvuma Road adjacent to the perimeter fence of Josiah Tungamirai Airbase.
The accused approached the vehicle intending to inquire as to who he was and his business at that site. Upon being approached the now deceased switched on the vehicle in an attempt to drive off.
At that moment accused fired three warning shots into the air ordering the now deceased to stop. The now-deceased ignored the orders and drove the vehicle onto the main road resulting in the accused firing two shots directed at the vehicle. The now-deceased did not stop and drove away from the scene towards Gweru C.B.D.
The accused and his colleague Spencer Chihanga sought the services of Stanley Muvhavhauri N.R [Redacted], a male aged 36 of [Redacted], Athlone, Gweru who was driving his Nissan Navara registration number AES 2019 towards Gweru to chase and block the deceased’s vehicle.
They caught up with the deceased at Riverside Roundabout, Gweru and managed to block him. They then realised that the now deceased had been shot at the back and was bleeding from the wound.
They then took now deceased to Gweru Provincial Hospital and later on made a report at Gweru Central Police Station.
Investigations Carried Out 
• Scene was attended by both CID and DUB members. 
• Three spent cartridges were picked from the scene. 
• The firearm used was recovered with a Magazine of 25 rounds. 
• Complainant was visited at Hospital and his condition is serious. 
• It was noted that the complainant’s vehicle had two gunshot holes near the driver’s door. 
• Next of kin Vimbai Mutero who is the complainant’s wife was advised.
New developments
• The accused made indications to police in the presence of his commanders who however have refused to release the accused to the police. 
• The complainant (now deceased) succumbed to the gun-shot wounds while admitted at Gweru General Hospital. 
• No further clues were found at the scenes during indications.
Outstanding
• To send the firearm and spent cartridges to Ballistics. 
• To send the deceased to United Bulawayo Hospital for post mortem. 
• To arrest the accused person and compile a court docket.
Matter is being investigated under ZRP Gweru Central CR 330/12/21 and CID Law and Order Gweru DR 01/01/22 refer.
</blockquote>

Soldier Fatally Shoots Fleeing Civilian On Christmas Day

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has warned members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) against engaging in criminal activities, saying such conduct brings shame to the force.
This comes following a rise in the number of armed robberies involving soldiers and police officers, with observers saying it is tantamount to a mutiny.
Speaking during the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day celebrations in Harare on Tuesday, Mnangagwa said:
<blockquote>
Yours is a noble profession, you must, therefore, avoid association and acts that put to shame our security institutions.
You as officers, men and women of the ZDF (Zimbabwe Defence Forces) should never be entangled in criminal activities.
</blockquote>
Soldiers and police offices are paid more than other civil servants but their salaries have been eroded by inflation, forcing some of them into crime.
Recently, an elite soldier, a member of the Presidental Guard battalion was shot by Criminal Investigations Department (CID) officers and fled with a bullet lodged in his rib cage after robbing a Chitungwiza service station of cash, a firearm and other valuables.
<ul>
<li class="entry-title">
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/07/19/presidential-guard-soldier-shot-by-detectives-during-armed-robbery/">Presidential Guard Soldier Shot By Detectives During Armed Robbery</a></h2>
</li>
</ul>
Meanwhile, Mnangagwa yesterday said the government, “is committed to improving the conditions of service of the ZDF members.” He said:
<blockquote>
… I challenge the ZDF administration to accelerate the completion of accommodation projects underway at Imbizo, Dzivarasekwa and Jason Ziyaphapha Moyo barracks.
</blockquote>
The President also promised to equip the ZDF with modern technologies to enable them to ward off domestic and international threats.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/08/ed-frets-over-rogue-soldiers/">NewsDay</a></h4>

Mnangagwa Frets Over Rogue Soldiers

Jada Fenyere, an Arcturus toddler who was injured when an Airforce of Zimbabwe (AFZ) helicopter crashed on the Fenyere family home early this year has been discharged from hospital.
This was revealed on Thursday when AFZ donated an assortment of goods worth thousands of dollars to the families of victims of the helicopter crash that happened early this year.
The donation included basic commodities and clothes worth $140 000 from the Manyame Air Base community and Kutsaga Tobacco Research Board.
The accident claimed two AFZ pilots, Wing Commander Thomas Tinashe Manyowa and Flight Lieutenant Anita Mapiye, an aircraft technician Flight Sergeant Tinodiwanashe Chikamhi and the 18-month-old Jade Fenyere.
Speaking while handing over the groceries to the families, the deputy Commander of Manyame airbase, Group Captain Maxwell Sakupwanya said:
<blockquote>Yes, we know it takes time to heal from this painful experience, but we are also there to support and provide welfare to the families of our beloved ones.
… Through this donation we are also welcoming a baby, Jada who was in the hospital two months ago, she was discharged last week so we are here to welcome him with these assortments of groceries including diapers, cereals and other essential foodstuffs.
… We want also to see Anita’s child growing up similarly to other children so will continue to provide the necessary support to the families.</blockquote>
Elias Mapiye, Anita’s father appreciated the support offered by Kutsaga Tobacco Research saying it will go a long way in providing the welfare and support of the baby.
Joseph Fenyere, Jade’s father also welcomed the development saying AFZ is an organisation that shows a sense of responsibility.
Last month the AFZ also handed over property which included two double beds, a gas stove with a 9kg tank, a television set, blankets, cutlery and pots, a complete solar power unit, a kitchen unit, a wardrobe, food, a lounge suite and US$400 to the Fenyere family in Arcturus who lost their daughter Jade who was sleeping when the helicopter burst into flames.
Jade and Jada who are twins, were both sleeping in their parents’ house when it was damaged by the chopper which caught fire on impact.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/families-of-afz-crash-victims-get-support/">The Herald</a></h4>

Arcturus Toddler Injured In Helicopter Crash Discharged From Hospital

The Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) has donated an assortment of goods including foodstuffs, a lounge suite, blankets, a complete solar power unit, gas stove, pots, cutlery and some cash to the Fenyere family following the death of their 18-month-old child, Jade, in a helicopter crash in Acturus a fortnight ago.
Jade was asleep in the house with her twin sister Jada when an AFZ chopper flying overboard lost control and crashed into the house before exploding into a fireball.
Commander Airforce of Zimbabwe, Air Marshal Elson Moyo, who was leading a delegation that visited the Fenyere family this Friday, pledged full and continued support to the affected families. He said:
<blockquote>The Airforce of Zimbabwe will always stand with the Fenyere family as well as all the families of our deceased officers and members.
I wish to state that official assistance will be done once the board of inquiry on the accident is complete.</blockquote>
The Board Chairperson of the Commander Airforce of Zimbabwe Charity Fund, Toyendepi Muganyi called for more well-wishers to come on board in support of such initiatives. He said:
<blockquote>In Shona, we say Chara chimwe hachitswanyi inda meaning we can achieve bigger together. I, therefore, call upon well-wishers, the corporate world, individuals and the nation at large to come together and partner with the Commander Airforce of Zimbabwe charity fund in assisting the family to restore their lost and damaged property.</blockquote>
The helicopter was on a training mission, with two pilots and a technician when it disappeared on the radar.
Both pilots and a technician were also killed in the crash while Jada and her mother sustained injuries.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/family-of-afz-helicopter-crash-victim-receives-donations/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">ZBC News</a></h4>

Airforce Donates To Helicopter Crash Victim's Family

The three Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) officers who perished when their helicopter crashed in Arcturus 9 days ago were all laid to rest on Saturday (yesterday).
The horror crash claimed the lives of two pilots, Flight Lieutenant Anita Mapiye, Wing Commander Thomas Tinashe Manyowa as well as aircraft technician Flight Sergeant Tinodiwanashe Chikamhi.
The accident also claimed the life of 18-month-old Jade Pfenyere, who was on the ground.
Flight Lieutenant Mapiye was buried at Glen Forest in Harare, while Wing Commander Manyowa and Flight Sergeant Chikamhi were buried in Chinhoyi and Masvingo respectively.
Flight Lieutenant Mapiye was the first female helicopter pilot in the Air Force of Zimbabwe and had become part of the VIP transport aircrew when she was killed in the accident.
The pilot is survived by her eight-month-old baby Munana.
Flight Lieutenant Mapiye was born on April 3, 1991, in Harare and was attested into the AFZ on September 27, 2012.
She earned her flying wings on July 1, 2017, after graduating at Number 6 Squadron, Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base.
Wing Commander Manyowa was a highly proficient helicopter pilot with more than 20 years of flying experience.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/air-crash-victims-laid-to-rest" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The Sunday Mail</a></h4>

Air Force Of Zimbabwe Helicopter Crash Victims Buried

One of the victims of last Friday’s Airforce of Zimbabwe (AFZ) helicopter crash is from Masvingo and was planning to get married next year, Masvingo Mirror has established.
Flight Sergeant Tinodiwanashe Chikamhi (27), an aircraft technician, was killed alongside two combat pilots and a sleeping toddler when the training chopper crashed into a house and burst into flames in Goromonzi, Mashonaland East Province.
Chikamhi’s father, Phineas Chikamhi told Masvingo Mirror that he was devastated when he learnt from his son, Komborerai Chikamhi that his first-born son had perished in the aircraft crash. He said:
<blockquote>When I saw pictures of the burnt chopper circulating on social media, I quickly contacted Kombo to check on his brother but he told me that they had lost signal of the AFZ plane although he did not know whether Tino was in the plane.
After some time he called back and confirmed the sad news, I was shattered and left everything I was doing in Cape Town and headed here right away and I am not going back.
I was devastated. The most harrowing part is that he could not be identified because he was burnt beyond recognition and the authorities are still doing DNA tests so that we can get the body for burial on Saturday.</blockquote>
Chikamhi senior said his late son had a passion for aeroplanes from a very young age and was very disciplined and active in church programmes.
He said Tinodiwanashe was planning to get married next year and had introduced his girlfriend to his mother.
Tinodiwanashe Chikamhi who is from Chikamhi Village in Chief Nhema’s area was born at Ndanga Hospital and has four siblings.
He went to Mukanga Primary in Bikita, Rose Camp Primary in Bulawayo and for his secondary education, he went to Mzilikazi High and Victoria High.
Meanwhile, mourners are gathered at number 2858/23 Mutobwe Street in Mucheke Majange area near Burombo Primary and burial had been set for this Saturday at Mangwandi.
<h4>More: <a href="https://masvingomirror.com/masvingo-aircraft-technician-dies-in-goromonzi-afz-chopper-crash/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Masvingo Mirror</a></h4>

Fresh Details On Technician Killed In Airforce Copter Crash Emerge

A funeral parade to honour two Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) pilots and a technician who died in a helicopter crash in Goromonzi on Friday last week will be held this Friday.
The pilots are Wing Commander Thomas Tinashe Manyowa and Flight Lieutenant Anita Mapiye while the aircraft technician is Flight Sergeant Tinodiwanashe Chikamhi.
An 18-month-old toddler, Jade Fenyere, who was sleeping with her twin sister, Jada, was also killed when the Agusta Bell 412 (AB 412) helicopter crashed into their house.
The AFZ on Monday said Wing Commander Manyowa will be buried in Chinhoyi, while Flight Lieutenant Mapiye will be interred at Glen Forest Memorial Park in Harare.
Flight Sergeant Chikamhi will be buried at Mucheke Cemetery in Masvingo.
Jade Fenyere will be buried today in Bocha, Manicaland Province.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/funeral-parade-for-copter-crash-victims/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The Herald</a></h4>

AFZ To Hold Funeral Parade For Helicopter Crash Victims

The government has set up a board of inquiry to investigate the cause of the horrific helicopter crash that claimed four lives on Friday, a cabinet minister has said.
Two Air Force of Zimbabwe pilots, Flight- Lieutenant Annita Mapiye and Group Captain Tinashe Manyowa, and a technician, Flight Sergeant Chikamhi, as well as an 18-month-old baby, Jade Fenyere who was on the ground, died when the helicopter, an Agusta Bell 412 (AB 412), crashed into a house at Plot 2 of Gardner Road, Ward 16 in Goromonzi.
Speaking at the Fenyere family homestead on Saturday, Defence and War Veterans Affairs Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri encouraged the family not to lose hope following the death of their daughter. She said:
<blockquote>Allow me to pass my heartfelt condolences following the passing on of your child. We are with you during this very difficult time as it is not easy to lose a child as young as 1 1/2 years old. Please do not lose hope.</blockquote>
Muchinguri-Kashiri was leading a delegation that included Commander Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ), Air Marshal Elson Moyo. The delegation also toured the crash site.
Muchinguri-Kashiri also consoled the Manyowa and Mapiye families. She said the government will bear all the burial costs for all four bereaved families.
NB: Other publications have identified one of the deceased pilots as Wing Commander Tinashe Thomas Mapiye and not as Group Captain Tinashe Manyowa.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.zimbabwevoice.com/2021/04/24/govt-sets-up-team-to-probe-helicopter-crash-bears-burial-costs-for-bereaved-families/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Zimbabwe Voice</a></h4>

Helicopter Crash: Govt To Bear Burial Costs For Bereaved Families

The Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) pilot Flight- Lieutenant Annita Mapiye, who was killed when an Agusta Bell 412 (AB 412) helicopter crashed in Goromonzi on Friday, flew the Presidential team for the official opening of Karanda Bridge in Mt Darwin slightly over two weeks before her tragic death.
The narrow bridge was officially opened by President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Thursday 15 April 2021.
This was revealed at the time by President Mnangagwa’s spokesperson George Charamba using his Twitter handle, @Jamwanda2. Charamba tweeted:
<blockquote>This AirForce of Zimbabwe Lady helicopter pilot is Flight-Lieutenant Mapiye. She flew us to Karanda yesterday. We celebrate this Officer who is the first Lady helicopter pilot of AFZ. Yes, they can.</blockquote>
<blockquote>
This AirForce of Zimbabwe Lady helicopter pilot is Flight-Lieutenant Mapiye. She flew us to Karanda yesterday. We celebrate this Officer who is the first Lady helicopter pilot of AFZ. Yes, they can. <a href="https://t.co/iwOJFikHXF">pic.twitter.com/iwOJFikHXF</a>
— Jamwanda (@Jamwanda2) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jamwanda2/status/1382947756029927427?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
<blockquote>Flt-Lt Mapiye and her boss, Wing Commander Manyowa outside the cockpit. Well done guys; well done Air Marshall Moyo for giving the girl-child a fighting chance !!!!👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Flt-Lt Mapiye and her boss, Wing Commander Manyowa outside the cockpit. Well done guys; well done Air Marshall Moyo for giving the girl-child a fighting chance!!!!👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿 <a href="https://t.co/9db3ZwedUl">pic.twitter.com/9db3ZwedUl</a>
— Jamwanda (@Jamwanda2) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jamwanda2/status/1382948592978173953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
Flight- Lieutenant Mapiye was killed alongside another pilot, Wing Commander Tinashe Thomas Mapiye, and Flight Sergeant Chikamhi, a technician when their helicopter crashed into a house at Plot 2 of Gardner Road, Ward 16 in Goromonzi, Mashonaland East.
The helicopter caught fire on impact and also killed Jade Fenyere, an 18-month-old toddler who was sleeping in the house.

'Deceased Lady Combat Pilot Flew Presidential Team To Karanda Bridge'

The father of an 18-month-old toddler who died when a military helicopter, an Agusta Bell 412 (AB 412) crashed onto a house she was sleeping in and exploded in a fireball in Goromonzi on Friday, said he was not at home when the mishap occurred.
Joseph Fenyere who owns Plot 2 of Gardner Road, Ward 16 in the Chinyika area of Goromonzi, Mashonaland East Province, lost her daughter Jade, while the baby’s twin sister Jada, and their mother escaped with burn injuries.
Fenyere’s other child, Dean, who was seated in the doorway when the chopper crashed, escaped unhurt. Fenyere said:
<blockquote>I was informed that a helicopter had crashed into the house after deflecting from a tree branch at a hilly platform a few metres away and burst into flames.
When the house caught fire, my three children; twin girls, Jade, and Jada were asleep inside, while their four-year-old sibling, Dean, was seated in the doorway.</blockquote>
The mother and other people on the scene initially ran away when the plane plunged onto the house but later tried to retrieve the children from the burning house.
Dilon Fenyere (19) said they tried to help the mother’s trapped children, but Jade had already died.
The mother and Jada were taken to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals and later transferred to Trauma Centre in Borrowdale for treatment, and were reportedly in a stable condition last night.
An eyewitness, Peter Katsago (22), said the chopper appeared to have lost control as it was flying close to the ground. He said:
<blockquote>I was washing a car behind the house when the helicopter appeared from the western side in the direction of Harare.
Surprisingly, it seemed to be misfiring as it nosedived at a tree branch on a hillock behind the house and deflected to a boulder, before crashing into the house and bursting into flames on impact.</blockquote>
The deceased Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) members are Flight- Lieutenant Annita Mapiye who is Zimbabwe’s first female helicopter fighter pilot, Wing Commander Tinashe Thomas Mapiye, and Flight Sergeant Chikamhi, a technician.
The cause of the crash will be established after an aircraft accident investigation, the AFZ said in a statement.
More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/afz-members-perish-in-horror-chopper-crash/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Chronicle</a>

Father Of Toddler Killed In Military Helicopter Crash Speaks

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has mourned the four people who were killed when an Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) helicopter crashed in the Chinyika area of Goromonzi, Mashonaland East Province on Friday.
The helicopter, an Agusta Bell 412 (AB 412), crashed into a house at Plot 2 of Gardner Road, Ward 16 in Goromonzi.
The deceased are two AFZ pilots, Flight- Lieutenant Annita Mapiye who is Zimbabwe’s first female helicopter fighter pilot and Wing Commander Tinashe Thomas Manyowa, an AFZ technician Flight Sergeant Tinodiwanashe Chikamhi, and an 18-month-old toddler identified as Jade Fenyere, who was sleeping in the house with her twin sister Jada.
In a statement yesterday, President Mnangagwa said he learnt with great sorrow and grief of the fatal air crash. He said:
<blockquote>While investigations are still underway, it has come to my attention that all three members of the crew perished in the crash.
Even more heart-wrenching is the information that the helicopter crashed on a rondavel, claiming one other life and injuring a mother and a child.
As we await details concerning this tragic incident, may I, on behalf of the party Zanu-PF, Government, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, and on my behalf, express my deepest condolences to relatives of the airmen and the child who perished in this rare incident.</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the injured toddler and her mother were taken to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals and later transferred to Trauma Centre in Borrowdale for treatment, and were reportedly in a stable condition last night.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/afz-members-perish-in-horror-chopper-crash/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Chronicle</a></h4>

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