cnp
Community Newspaper Publishing
PUNGWE NEWS
MUTARE, JUNE 21-27, 2021
Masasa Windsor House, 107 Herbert Chitepo Street, Mutare. Tel: 0220 202 1487. Email:news.pungwe@gmail.com
Irate villagers kidnap, torture
prophet for sleeping with
10 married women
...kidnappers demand R10 000 ransom
Takunda Ndumiyana
CHIMANIMANI -A local
self-proclaimed prophet suspect-
ed of dating married women was
seriously injured after he was al-
legedly kidnapped and tortured by
two Mozambicans and their Zim-
babwean accomplice.
Naison Chishiri from Dzingire
(35) was allegedly kidnapped and
taken to Chikwidzire village in
Mozambique.
Chishiri is accused of having
extra marital affairs with married
women after taking advantage of
their vulnerability whenever they
come to seek spiritual healing at
his shrine.
The prophet is reported to have
A local tailor Sungano
Mureveri from New
Chisamba expressed
discontent over local
authority’s decision to
establish a flea market
saying learners may be
exposed to ritual killers
The battle of Sakubva Beit Hall rages on -P2
been assaulted by community
members of Mutsvangwa village.
The three suspects identified as
Joro, Chokwarara and Maphosa
allegedly took Chishiri to Mo-
zambique where they assaulted
him before demanding R10 000
ransom from his wife for his safe
return.
Manicaland Province police
spokesperson, Inspector Luxson
Chananda confirmed the incident,
saying they have launched a man-
hunt for the suspects.
“We have launched a manhunt
for the suspects. Investigations are
in progress,” said Insp. Chananda.
Chishiri was released after the
matter was reported to the po-
A subsidiary of New Ziana (Pvt) Ltd
ZWL 20
lice and community leaders from Benjamin Ndumiyana
Chikwidzire village in Mozam- said the prophet confessed
bique were roped in and helped that he slept with 10 married
negotiate for his release. women including widows.
Disgruntled community mem- “Sithole confessed that he
bers told Pungwe News that they was given juju by a San-
want the prophet to be arrested goma whom he failed to
and brought to justice for abusing mention, which gave
women under pretext of conduct- him powers to per-
ing healing sessions. form prophetic du-
“Sithole deserves worse than ties and the same
what was done to him by his ab- juju was also used
ductors. They should have cas- to attract wom-
trated him because police is only en to him,” said
interested in dealing his abductors. Ndumiyana.
“What is the police doing about Efforts to get
Chishiri`s confession?,” said a a comment from
local villager who declined to be Chishiri were fruit-
named. less.
Pamela Nyarukuwa
(29) of New Chisamba
Sakubva urged council
to go ahead with its
decision to establish a
market, saying “it will
create employment and
opportunities”.
page 02
The battle of Sakubva
Beit Hall rages on
Simbarashe Muparaganda
& Felix Matasva
MUTARE City Council’s inten-
tion to establish flea market at
Sakubva Beit Hall has been re-
ceived with mixed feelings by
residents and stakeholders in the
eastern border city.
Residents who live near the rec-
reational facility told this publica-
tion on Tuesday that the decision
by the local authority was inappro-
priate.
Tracy Muparutsa Munjaranji, an
octogenarian from Old Chisamba
recalls the first time she was learn-
ing to ride a bicycle in the then
Rhodesia.
“I remember the time when I
was still learning how to cycle. I
got the chance to see many influ-
ential people in Zimbabwe who
used to light up Mutare at Beit
Hall in the 80s and 90s.The enter-
tainment sector was on its peak,”
said Munjaranji who is now 82.
The octogenarian said she was
against council’s decision to es-
tablish a market near Sakubva Beit
Hall because the place was meant
for recreational purposes when it
was built.
“I do not think it is a good idea
for council to turn this facility from
a recreational to a business facili-
ty. When I was learning to ride a
bicycle Whaper (a white man who
stayed at Library during Beit hall
construction) told us that it was a
place for recreational activities for
high density suburb dwellers.
“When construction was done
it was very a prestigious place.
The site which council intents to
establish a flea market used to ac-
commodate swings where infants
could play and relax during leisure
time.
“These are facilities were youths
used to be taught about our cultur-
al values, hence they must contin-
ue to serve that purpose in these
times of moral decadence,” fumed
Munjaranji.
The purpose of a library, youth
centre, pre-school and Beit Hall
where many public events are held
will be defeated.
It’s a disservice to diasporians
led by Peter Muparutsa and for-
mer MP Malianga’s brother who
once refurbished that place under
the rebuild initiative, after it had
suffered from massive vandalism
and dilapidation.
“Council’s decision is inconsid-
erate of the surrounding commu-
nity’s concerns. The market will
mess up the hygiene of our neigh-
borhood due to littering,” said
Munjaranji.
She said ever since Beit Hall
was built, it was graced by various
influential people including the
Runn Family Band led by the pop-
ular Muparutsa’s, Thomas Map-
fumo, Stella Chiweshe, Blessing
Muparutsa, Dudu Manhenga and
several political figures.
Munjaranji, who is a former
teacher at Masvaure Primary
School, was one of the pioneers to
perform in Sakubva Stadium as an
athlete after its construction when
she was still a young girl.
Hellen Marange provides nurs-
ery school education for a number
of of young kids each and every
year.
She is proud that Busy Bee
Nursery School has over the years,
churned out several learners, who
have performed better in certain
tests in elementary schools dotted
around the province.
The decision by council to es-
tablish a flea market has sparked
fears of losing business which has
provided revenue to her family
and the local authority.
She said the establishment of
the flea market will push her out
of business due to noise from the
market which will impact on the
learning environment.
Sakubva Busy Bee Nursery
School is a stone’s throw away
from the site which council intents
to set up a temporary market.
“Council must find a suitable
place for a flea market so that
sanity prevails within young kids’
learning environment. There is no
parking space, hence vendors and
customers will park their cars in
front of our school compound.
“The behavior of vendors does
not resonate well with learning en-
vironment. They normally shout
even vulgar language as they try
to lure customers. It’s not healthy
for learners because there is no du-
rawall,” she said.
A local tailor Sungano Mureveri
from New Chisamba expressed
discontent over local authority’s
decision to establish a flea market
saying learners may be exposed to
ritual killers.
“I am strongly against the idea
of setting up a flea market near
youth and recreational facilities.
Learners may be exposed to ritual
killers who may frequent the area
under the disguise of being buyers.
“Youth centre, library and Beit
Hall will be rendered useless due
to flea market activities. A youth
centre is an important hub for
young students’ networking, Im-
portant public events are oftenly
held at Beit Hall hence all these
facilities will be affected by noise
from flea market,” said Mureveri.
Idah Gutsauru from Old Chis-
amba said the new market will
attract thieves and hard core crim-
inals into their area.
“Flea markets are a hunting
ground for thieves. With the estab-
NEWS
lishment of a flea market, we risk
our neighborhood being turned
into a den of criminals who will
terrorise us,” she said.
However, another section of the
community is supporting the lo-
cal authority move, saying it will
bring opportunities for the locals.
Pamela Nyarukuwa (29) of New
Chisamba Sakubva urged council
to go ahead with its decision to
establish a market, saying “it will
create employment and opportuni-
ties”.
“I support the move because
I am a breadwinner and also in
the business of selling clothes.
The proximity of the market to
our houses saves us on transport
costs,” said Nyarukuwa.
“This library is barely busy be-
cause most people borrow books
and read in the comfort of their
homes.
“The youth centre is not too
busy and a few youths abuse the
facility by engaging in promiscu-
ity. Council should go ahead with
its decision because it will create
employment for the community,”
she said.
Gloria Makahwi a social worker
said she intends to take advantage
and open a food outlet at the mar-
ket.
“As a social worker my salary is
not enough to sustain my family of
six. I will introduce a nice cuisine
where I will prepare food for ven-
dors and customers in this yet-to-
be-opened market.
“It’s a great opportunity for
women in this neighborhood to
venture into some start ups that
will serve emerging markets ne-
cessitated by this new flea market.
“Criminals are everywhere and
they should not stop us from ven-
turing into new business opportu-
nities,” said Makahwi
Intergene Rational Dialogue
Zimbabwe Representative Rich-
ard Mugobo weighed in, saying
Beit hall cannot accommodate flea
market.
He said the hall accommodates
crèche; library and recreational
facilities for youths and the set up
should not be disturbed.
“What is informing you to es-
tablish a flea market at Beit hall?
There is a library and other facili-
ties for youths. You mean Sakubva
residents don’t matter? You cannot
use the rationale that there is a toi-
let and thus the reason to establish
a flea market at the expense of
youths,“ queried Mugobo.
President of Mutare Informal
Traders Association (MITA), Itai
Kariparire is however singing
from a different hymn book.
He said it’s not the right time
for residents to disapprove as de-
cision was reached after a through
PUNGWE NEWS, JUNE 21-27, 2021
consultation between council and
stakeholders.
“Manica Youths Assembly
(MAYA) are enemies of develop-
ment because they want to stall
progress at implementation stage.
They should have lodged their
complains during consultations
which were conducted by council.
“When the presidium visited
the city for the launch of the Ur-
ban renewal project, late Minister
of State Ellen Gwaradzimba was
tasked to look for a place to ac-
commodate a flea market since the The late Ellen Gwaradzimba
one behind Sakubva Stadium had
been earmarked for Urban Renew-
al.
“Some places were identified
including DDF ground besides N
Richards, Chinyausunzi bar and
grounds and Red Cross grounds.
“We toured all those places with
Mutare Housing department, Pro-
vincial Development Coordinator
Edgars Seenza, provincial engi-
neers, Social Welfare, then Mutare
police Dispol Chief Superinten-
dent Florence Marume and other
stakeholders.
“All the places were denied Spren Mutiwi
and it was resolved that a tempo-
rary market be established at Beit
Hall,” said Kariparire.
He said the Flea market at
Sakubva Beit hall will be a tem-
porary measure for about eight
months meant to help informal
traders who were affected by
Covid-19 lockdowns.
“We want 1000 families who are
reeling from Covid-19 lockdown
restrictions to start earn a living
after a long time without conduct-
ing business.
“We are going to put up our own
structures at Beit Hall since coun- Dr. Isau Mupfumi
cil said it was incapacitated.
“It is no longer time for objec- sultations yet they are the ones
tions, hence residents and pressure who will be affected by this devel-
groups who are complaining now opment,” Kudherezera claimed.
must take a chill pill. They cannot Mutare deputy Mayor Farai Bhi-
talk about thieves when there is a za said the move to accommodate
police station within the vicinity vendors at Sakubva Beit hall was a
of their neighborhood,” said Kar- temporary measure to pave for the
iparire. construction of a state-of-the-art
However MAYA director, Jussah flea market near Sakubva stadium
Kudherezera shot down Karipari- under the Urban Renewal Project.
re’s claims that council consulted “This is a temporary move to al-
stakeholders prior to its decision to low construction of a state-of-the-
establish a flea market at Beit Hall. art flea market near Sakubva Stadi-
“Muchena residents were not um under Urban Renewal project.
consulted but they will be affected While the construction is under-
in terms of noise, lack of toilets at way, we want those affected by
the flea market and litter. Council Covid-19 lockdown measures to
never consulted all stakeholders continue to eking a living through
except MITA. Kariparire is par- their businesses,” said Bhiza.
roting for his supper. However, ZANU-PF central
“We spoke to many stakehold- committee member and also Dan-
ers who confirmed that MITA was gamvura-Chikanga Constituency
the only organization which was shadow Member Of Parliament Dr
consulted. Other stakeholders like Isau Mupfumi begs to differ.
Busy Bee Nursery School, church- He is of the opinion that council
es, residents and Chisamba Police should stop vendors from
Station were snubbed during con- To Page 3
 PUNGWE NEWS, JUNE 21-27, 2021 page 03

LOCAL NEWS

The battle
of Sakubva
Beit Hall
rages on
From Page 2
operating in sports and recreation-
al facilities, saying that informal
traders must be allocated places
specifically designated for mar-
kets.
Dr Mupfumi said this during a
handover ceremony of over US$
8000 worth of football and netball
kits which he donated to each ward
of Dangamvura-Chikanga constit-
uency.
“City Council should refurbish
all sports grounds and recreation-
al facilities. I urge City Council
to move vegetable vendors from
using sports facilities and return
them to their designated trading
points,” said Mupfumi.
The business mogul urged coun-
cil to refrain from converting land
designated for sport and recre-
ational facilities into residential
stands noting that sports activities
are essential for healthy communi-
ties.
But, council spokesperson,
Spren Mutiwi said council and
MITA were in agreement and will
go ahead with the project.
“We have graded the place and
Seven robbers pounce on
Fawcett Security Company
Alson Sithole / Trust Bvaranga
CHIPINGE -There was drama at
Checheche Business Centre recent-
ly when armed robbers disarmed
Fawcett Security guards in a movie
style incident and got away with
huge sums of money.
Police confirmed the incident,
saying they have launched a man-
hunt for the suspects.
Chipinge District Police spokes-
person Detective Assistant Inspec-
tor Vincent Chikuvadze said the
robbers gained entry into the con-
trol room stealthy and disarmed the
security guards.
He said Fawcett Security Com-
pany dispatched a team driving
an Isuzu KB Vehicle registration
number ACM 1859 to collect daily
takings from Gains Wholesale and
Mukuru Money Transfers at Che-
cheche Business Centre.
“The team collected USD$6
583.00, R32 110.00 and ZWL$11
937.00 from Gains Wholesale and
undisclosed amount of cash from
Mukuru Money Transfers Compa-
nies.
“They took money to their Che-
cheche depot and secured it in the
Chubb safe,” said Chikuvadze.
On the same day, at around
1920hrs, the complainant was in
the control room at their offices in
the company of Robson Chihlanga
(53) waiting for the safe keeping
of N. Richards Checheche premise
keys.
At around 1925hrs, the compa-
ny motor vehicle which was being
driven by Last Matewe (38) arrived
at the offices and was parked at the
usual parking bay.
Desmond Macheza (22) went
to the control room to surrender
the N Richards Keys to the com-
plainant.
“While handing the car keys,
the suspects approached a securi-
ty guard Nhamo Muhle (43) who
was holding a shot gun loaded
with seven rounds and Serverino
Tanyaara (53) again armed with a
shot gun loaded with seven rounds
and disarmed them,” said the police
spokesperson.
The complainant and Desmond
Macheza heard someone scream-
ing from outside and they went to
investigate.
They realized that Muhle was
being manhandled by an unknown
suspect approaching the office
door.
Whilst inside, the suspect who
was holding Muhle, produced a
pistol and ordered everyone to lie
down under the table.
One of the robbers who was
armed with the company shot gun
entered with other six suspects
holding a yellow cutter.
The robbers asked for Amon
Dube whom they forced marched
into his office where there are two
Chubb Safes and gun cabinet.
They also ordered him to open
the main safe and he complied.
The robbers loaded money from
Mukuru into white sacks and satch-
els.
One of the robbers then took a
cash box, dragged it into the con-
trol room whilst others were threat-
ening to kill the security guards.
They cut CCTV connection ca-
bles and also destroyed the cash
box seals and took the cash.
They also stole two revolvers se-
rial number h264 and h284 with ten
rounds each, two Hatsan shot guns
serial number 581881 and 581882
with seven rounds each and Rossi
pistol serial number AA571343.
The robbers tied all five security
guards with tyre cables, took their
cellphones, Mukuru dot com ZTE
blade 110 which had an Econet line
0783064750, alarm remote control
and went away unnoticed.
The other four security guards
managed to untie one another and
went to ZRP Checheche Base and
made a police report.
Two cash box were recovered in
the control room, eleven tier cables
which were used to tie the guards,
one pair of handcuffs was also re-
covered which was used to hand-
cuff Muhle.
CCTV was reconnected by the
Company Technician and replayed.
It was established that the tier ca-
bles came with one of the robbers.
It was also discovered all seven
robbers took part in commission of
the crime.
All stolen fire arms had valid cer-
tificates.
Dube and other security guards
sustained minor injuries and were
treated and discharged at St Peters
hospital.

Chawanda appointed Manicaland

we are in the process of marking
it. This is an interim measure. We
want to bring relief to the infor-
mal sector which has not been

State University Vice-Chancellor

working due to lockdown restric-
tions.
“We cannot bring them back at
the place where President Emmer-
son Mnangagwa commissioned
Sakubva Urban Renewal because
that place is earmarked for modern
Infrastructure transformation. We
cannot temper around with that set
up,” said Mutiwi
He said those with objections
were free to engage the local au-
thority through formal commu-
nication channels not through
“WhatsApp”.
“Those with objections are free
to engage us using formal channels
not social media. Formal means of
communications should be lodged
with the council. Work is progress-
ing well at the site,” said the coun-
cil spokesperson.
Malcom Rugubhe
MUTARE -President Emmer-
son Mnangagwa has appointed
seasoned academic Professor
Albert Chawanda as the found-
ing and substantive Vice-Chan-
cellor of Manicaland State Uni-
versity of Applied Sciences.
Professor Chawanda, who
served as the Midlands State
University founding Executive
Dean of the Faculty of Science
and Technology between March
2000 and September 2012, is
now the MSU-Manicaland Vice
Seasoned academic Professor Chancellor with effect from
Albert Chawanda June 1.
Before this appointment,
Prof. Charamba served as the
Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor for
MSU-Manicaland College of
Applied Sciences between Oc-
tober 2012 and June 2016.
In July 2016 he was appointed
as the acting Vice-Chancellor
of Manicaland State University
of Applied Sciences, a position
he held until his substantive ap-
pointment.
“Professor Chawanda is a sea-
soned academic, distinguished
researcher, a dedicated and
principled higher education ad-
ministrator and his appointment
as Vice-Chancellor speaks vol-
umes of his astute leadership.
“We are proud and happy to
have contributed, towards the
nurturing of a Vice-Chancellor
and wish you all the success in
your new role,” said MSU in a
statement.
Africa University also con-
gratulated Professor Chawa-
nda for his appointment as the
founding Vice Chancellor of
MSU-Manicaland.
“We wish you the greatest
success in this new and exciting
part of your illustrious career,”
said AU.
page 04 PUNGWE NEWS, JUNE 21-27, 2021

Covid-19
Updates Residents speak
Blood donation rate
falls in Africa in wake
of COVID-19 pandemic
out on delivery of
Sputnik V vaccine
BRAZZAVILLE – Blood donation has fall-
en by 17% in the African region in the wake
of the COVID-19 pandemic that has caused
widespread disruptions to key health services,
lives and livelihoods.

M
An analysis by the World Health Organiza- John Chamboko
tion (WHO) found that the frequency of blood ani -
calan d
drives in the African region has dropped by
province has
25% and demand for blood declined by 13%,
welcomed the arrival of
with the suspension of routine surgeries in
Russian manufactured
some countries and fewer people seeking care Covid-19 vaccine Sput-
in health facilities. Around 7 million people nik V in the country.
need blood transfusion every year in the re- The country received
gion. the first batch of 25
This year’s World Blood Donor Day is 000 doses of Sputnik V
marked under the theme “Give blood and keep vaccine from Russian
the world beating” to highlight the essential diamond mining giant
contribution blood donors make to save lives Alrosa Group.
and improve the health of others. The country becomes
“Disruptions to the steady supply of safe one of the few countries
blood can be life threatening. We deeply ap- in the world to access
preciate the selfless, lifesaving gesture of the highly rated doses.
blood donors and urge countries to set up and The consignment
reinforce systems to increase voluntary blood was received by Presi-
donations,” said Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO dent Emmerson Mnan-
Regional Director for Africa. gagwa and his vice Dr
Constantino Chiwenga,
WHO is collaborating with organizations
cabinet minister and
such as the Coalition of Blood for Africa—
top government offi-
launched in November 2020—the Organiza-
cials.
tion of African First Ladies for Development Before the arrival of
and the private sector to improve access to the consignment, the
quality blood supplies. country had been using
In partnership with Facebook, WHO has set Chinese made vaccines
up a Regional Blood Donations feature, which namely Sinopharm and
connects people with nearby blood banks. The
Sinovac which were granted Emergency
tool is now live in 12 countries and over 3.8
Use Authorisation by World Health Organ-
million Facebook users have signed up to be isation (WHO).
notified of blood donation opportunities. Research conducted by the Gamaleya
National Research Centre of Epidemiology
and Microbiology and the Russian Direct
said government should not
rely on donations but should
instead invest in research
and technology.
“We need to invest in re-
search and technology. Do-
nations, of course, we need
them but not always. Rus-
sian should help us to set
up health research centres
so that we can develop our
own vaccines in the country,
“said Foya.
Lewis Dhaka of Fern
Valley said the consign-
ment will contribute to the
achievement of herd immu-
nity in the country.
“We are happy as Zim-
babweans that the con-
signment will augment the
ongoing efforts to combat
the Covid-19 pandemic
through the national vac-
cination programme,” said
Dhaka.
Vaina Mapfumo said the
donation shows excellent
relations that Zimbabwe
and Russia have nurtured
and continue to enjoy, dat-
“We pray that going forward this gesture
ing back to the liberation struggle for inde-
of comradeship will extend also to our crit-
pendence.
ical areas of need like infrastructure devel-
Alrosa deputy chief executive, Vladimir
opment in the districts,” said Dumbura.
Marchenko said the move is part of their
He went on to say that since Alrosa is a
company`s corporate social responsibility.
diamond miner, construction of clinics, hos-
“A member of the Responsible Jewellery
pitals and other infrastructure is vital in the

C N P
Investment Fund (RDIF) revealed that the
Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine has 97, 6 per-
cent efficacy.
The company made a pledge through
their Chief Executive Officer Sergey Ivan-
Community Newspaper Publishing ov in February that the country should ex-
(Zimbabwe’s largest Newspaper Publishing Group) pect its first delivery in March.
Social commentator and analyst Kenneth
PUNGWE NEWS
(We cover Manicaland Province) Dumbura said it’s a good gesture from Rus-
Manica Chambers, Office No. 25 First Floor, Mutare. sian compatriots.
Telephone 020-62573.
“Alrosa is a Russian Diamond Invest-
Email:news.pungwe@gmail.com
PUBLISHED BY ment Company and by donating vaccines
Community Newspaper Publishing (sbu) it is good way of showing us that they are
(A Division of New Ziana (Pvt) Ltd
concerned about the health and welfare of
2nd Floor, Mass Media House
19 Selous Avenue, P.O. Box CY 511, HARARE Zimbabweans.
Council, World Diamond Council and Nat-
catchment areas they are mining and where
ural Diamond Council, Alrosa is committed
their investments are.
to the highest standards of social responsi-
“Development of infrastructure in areas
bility and complies with the strictest inter-
they will be operating is very critical,” said
national industry standards,” he said.
Dumbura.
“Supporting local communities in the
Tanaka Makurumure said she was excited
regions where we operate in is one of our
by the donation made by the Russians.
top priorities. Year by year, we support
“I am happy with the relationship that
various social, environmental and char-
currently exists between Zimbabwe and
itable programmes in the regions where
Russia. Our country is reeling under the
we operate.”
sanctions imposed by United States and her
The vaccine was named “Sputnik V” after
allies but the Russians have proved to be
the first Soviet space satellite that opened a
our all-weather friends,” said Makumure.
new era in the global space research.
Another resident Loyce Foya of Florida
Each vaccine kit consists of two doses.

Police to ensure stricter

Printed by Superprint, Box 66, Gweru,
Tel: 054-223188, 226854

PUNGWE NEWS STAFF

adherence to Covid-19 rules

Editor-in-Chief:

Editor: Ramington Jarijari

Reporter: Simba Muparaganda

Accounts Admin Clerk:

THE Zimbabwe Republic Police said on
Marketing & Distribution:
Monday it will ensure strict adherence to
revised Covid-19 guidelines the govern-
DIRECTORS ment announced at the weekend to curb
Mrs. Rosemary Mazula (Chairperson), Mr. Goodson Nguni
the spread of the virus.
Government on Saturday noted that
(Deputy chairperson), Mr. Stephen Mpofu, Rtd. Col. Claudious
complacency was responsible for the re-
Makova, Mr. Douglas Dhliwayo, Mrs. Florence Sigudu surgence of Covid-19, with the country
Matambo, Mr. Nimrod Chiminya, Mrs. Evelyn Kawonza, Mr. having recorded over 500 new cases in
Peter Nyoni.
the past week.
As a result revised regulations which
A member of included new operating times for busi-
ness and a ban on public gatherings were
adma
Advertising Media Association
put in place.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police ad-
vises the public that the enforcement of
government’s revised Covi-19 lockdown
measures on health and security as an-
nounced on June 12, 2012 will be done
without fear or favour,” the police said.
Patrols will be enhanced to ensure bot-
tle stores operate according to set times
and that beer halls and night clubs remain
closed.
“All those found drinking at bottle
stores, inside vehicles and surrounding
areas will be arrested,” the police said.
Announcing the new Covid-19 mea-
sures, Vice President, Constantino Chi-
wenga, who is also the Minister of Health
and Child Care, said people must contin-
ue to properly wear their masks when in
public, sanitise as well as social distance.
Surveys have revealed some people
have abandoned use of masks when in
public while overcrowding is common in
most public places without adherence to
social distancing rules.
New Ziana
 PUNGWE NEWS, JUNE 21-27, 2021
Jah Lee Gevha manages
both school, music career
T
HE gifted and up and com-
ing artist Jah Lee Gevha
says he has been juggling
both school and music, dropping
new hits while preparing for his A
level examination set for Novem-
ber this year.
Justin Maguta popularly
known as Jah Lee Gevha by his
legion of fans, is trying to re-
main relevant in the music in-
dustry as he is teaming up with
some experienced names such
as Terry Gunz aka Chi Uncle
and Slammer boy in different
projects.
He is working on projects
such as Your Highness, Land
Lady and promised to remain
in the music circles.
The Afro-fusion track that
was released by Jah Lee called
“Your Highness” also shows
that the young artist is not only
one dimensional artist who
only produce Zimdancehall tracks
but can also feature in Afro-fu-
sion and Afro dancehall music.
In an exclusive interview with
Arts Talk, Jah Lee said: ”This
year, I’m writing my A level ex-
amination so right now I’m con-
centrating on my school work.
“I am doing a little bit of some
music because I do not want to
lose focus on my school work. I
Rusape woman jailed
nine years for stock theft
Martin Sakutukwa
RUSAPE -A 21 year old woman
from Village 2 in Tiverton, Nyazura
will spend the next nine years be-
hind bars after she was convicted of
stock theft at Rusape Magistrates
Court.
The accused, Junior Matinyar-
ara denied the charges when he
appeared before magistrate Rufaro
Mangwiro.
She was, however, convicted due
to overwhelming evidence which
was presented before the courts.
Matinyarara blamed her accom-
plice Patrick Muzhiki who is still
on the run.
She told the court that she was
not involved in the stock theft but
was trying to assist Muzhiki who is
still on the run to sell the said cattle.
Prosecutor Innocent Moyowaon-
da told the court that at unknown
would like to go the next stage
with my education and at the
same time trying to remain rele-
vant in music circles.”
He added: “I thank God for my
mum because she has been the
one who has been supporting my
dreams from day one and she has
been pushing me to put my house
in order as I balance both school
and music.”
Commenting on juggling of be-
ing a student and musician, Jah
Lee said: “It’s difficult but I’m
trying my best to manage as both
a musician and a student.
“Studies are very demanding
date in April 2021, Matinyarara
and her accomplice Muzhiki who is
her ex boyfriend connived to steal
Remigious Mavera`s brown ox and
one dark brown cow.
“On April 19 at around 19 00hrs,
the accused and her accomplice
proceeded to Mavera`s kraal in
Chitepo village, Mwenje farm,
Nyazura and drove the two oxen to
her village,” said Moyowaonda.
The court was further told that
Matinyarara and her accomplice
drove the cattle to her uncle Isaac
Mashava homestead village 2, Ti-
verton Nyazura during the same
night.
“When they arrived, Muzhiki
left Matinyarara and Mashava in
custody of the two oxen. Matin-
yarara woke up her uncle and told
him that the two cattle were part of
her lobola from her previous mar-
page 05
that’s why these days I usually
spent most of my time at school
and I only do music in my spare
time or try to apply it in my edu-
cational studies as it helps me to
memories for instance I have four
unrecorded songs for European
history and divinity,” said Jah
Lee.
The 20 year old musician
who is currently an Upper 6
student at Alpha Institute in
Mutare started recording mu-
sic in 2015 and was first intro-
duced to the music scene when
he auditioned for the Jibilika
concert in 2018.
Since then he has been work-
ing hard to up his grades.
Jah Lee Gevha has joined
other youthful musicians who
are currently juggling both
studies and music career such
as Hermain, Kebza, Missle,
among others.
The young artist is also among
the list of artists who were scout-
ed at Alpha Institute Mutare and Justin Maguta popularly known as Jah Lee Gevha
ventured in the music circles at a
young age.
CHIMURENGA
Other artists who emerged
from Mutare and currently mak-
ing waves globally are Grammy
award winner Shasha, Shingi the
FILES FOR SALE
Poet and Diamond boys D Boi
and Spanx.
Do you want to know more about
riage in Sharara and she wanted to
sell them,” the prosecutor told the
court.
Zimbabwe’s liberation
Matinyarara reportedly went and
tied the two beasts on trees using
ropes in Mashava`s field and began
to contact cattle buyers and Obert
Well, get it from those who participated by buying DVDs
Mombeyarara who is a cattle agent
buyer intending to buy two beasts. from New Ziana provincial offices dotted around the
The suspect charged one cow
US$350 while other one US$300.
“Mavera and other villagers made
country. In Manicaland province, you can enquire from
follow up for the stolen beasts and
traced the cattle hoofs prints, Matin-
yarara and her accomplice footprints PUNGWE NEWS
leading to the recovery of the two
beasts at Mashava`s field tied to the
trees with ropes,” the court heard. Masasa Windsor House,
107 Herbert Chitepo Street, Mutare.
The ropes and accused pair of
sandals were produced as exhibit in
the court.
The value of the stolen is ZW$72
900 and it was all recovered.
Tel: 0220 202 1487. Email:news.pungwe@gmail.com
 B
page 06
USINESS
Mutare market places
ready for business
Malcom Rugubhe
MUTARE -The Minister of State
for Provincial Affairs and Devo-
lution in Manicaland Nokuthula
Matsikenyere has appreciated the
sterling work being done by the
Mutare City Council to ensure
speedy opening of the markets in
line with the Covid-19 preventive
guidelines.
She said this during a tour of
market places in the city ahead of
their opening this week.
The delegation which first
toured Chidzere Flea Market and
later Sakubva Beit Hall Market.
Council is re-opening all the
market places on a gradual phase.
Mutare Mayor Councillor
Blessing Tandi is however, op-
timistic that the local authority
will open the markets anytime
soon.
He said Council was equally
concerned by the prolonged time
taken to bring back the traders
on their operating sites but hint-
ed that focus is to ensure that
the markets attain the minimum
Covid-19 requirements.
AU Bream fish ponds project to promote agritourism
MUTARE -The Africa University
Farm Trust last week commissioned
six Bream fish ponds at its farm and
the project is set to create an agritour-
ism site in Mutare where fishing and
other leisure activities will spring
forth as the project grows.
At 30 meters in length and width,
each pond holds 6000 fish at various
stages of the Bream growth cycle
from juvenile fingerlings that weigh
in at 1 gram, through to mature adults
that weigh 350 to 400 grams.
PUNGWE NEWS
Acting Town Clerk Dr Antony
Mutara said the two markets are
expected to open this week add-
ing that Council is making frantic
efforts to complete all the out-
standing works.
Marking of the trading spaces
for both Chidzere and Sakubva
Beit Hall markets have been com-
pleted.
In line with the Covid-19 pre-
Acting Vice Chancellor Professor
Peter Mageto expressed the support
of the university for the Farm Trust
and the appreciation of the commu-
nity for the hard work, dedication
and vision of the Farm Trust leader-
ship and staff that allows it to grow in
leaps and bounds.
”What excites us as management
of AU is that while the rest of the
world is in a crisis due to the COVID-
19 pandemic, we continue to dream,
and we continue to move on. Today
ventive measures, the market
places have been fenced to ensure
controlled entry and exits.
Due to the delays in the opening
of the markets, there were some
skirmishes in Sakubva between
police and informal traders who
invaded flea markets and vege-
tables stalls claiming Covid-19
induced lockdown has impover-
ished them.
is a day to celebrate a lot of achieve-
ments made at the farm so far. Firstly,
the Dream Farm products are going
through a rebranding process and are
now available in many retails shops
in Mutare, secondly, these products
will now be available online, becom-
ing one of the few farms in Zimba-
bwe that sells its products online. As
a matter of fact, it will soon be the
only farm that sells and delivers its
online products in Manicaland,” he
said.
Prof. Mageto also spoke on the
plans to mechanize farm processes
in line with the institution’s thrust to
industrialize its operations.
Africa University Farm Trust
Chairman Dr. Walter Manyangarirwa
said the ponds would not only pro-
vide income and added robustness
to the national food security agenda,
but will also serve to educate and em-
power the community through teach-
ing and learning opportunities that
shall be provided.
“We are very happy to represent
this university through the activities
that we as the university farm embark
upon. We shall continue to do the
best we can as we are highly motivat-
PUNGWE NEWS, JUNE 21-27, 2021
Mutare City Council spokes-
person Spren Mutiwi said the
council cannot rush to open half
compliant facilities that may end
up becoming the hot spots in
terms of Covid-19 transmission.
Mutiwi said the local authori-
ty was working with representa-
tives of the informal traders and
soon the beneficiaries will begin
to conduct their business in line
ed and passionate about what we do.
“The water that we use here to re-
plenish our ponds is clean and safe.
We have completed the construction
of our hatchery which will create fin-
gerlings which we shall sell to those
who wish to begin their own fishery
projects. Our farm shall also provide
the training for these projects for free
to ensure the success and empower-
ment of our community.”
The ponds form a self- contained
system where the nutrient- rich wa-
ter contained within them will be
recycled through the farm to irrigate
the wide array of vegetables being
grown. The pond water which has a
greenish tinge is rich in algae that is
grown through chicken manure that
comes from the enterprise’s chicken
project.
The algae is not only eaten by the
fish but it also gives an added benefit
in that it also provides oxygen for the
ponds and acts as camouflage from
the prying eyes of birds overhead.
The Africa University Dream
Farm has become a jewel of success
in the crown of the institution and the
province.
Partners who graced the occasion
with Covid-19 prevention mea-
sures.
“The delays have been caused
by the processes that are supposed
to be put in place in compliant
to Covid-19 regulations. People
should be patient because what
is important is to put the proper
environment that ensure the safe-
ty of customers and traders,” said
the council spokesperson.
from Spar Supermarkets, Surrey
Group, Holiday Inn Mutare, Street-
wise Meats, MFS Group , Stanbic
Bank Mutare and the Command Ag-
riculture Provincial Office spoke to
the quality, demand and reach that
exists for Africa University brand
products in eggs, yogurts, milk and
chickens with the U- Safe Hand San-
itizer produced by the College of
Health, Agriculture and Natural Sci-
ences also fast becoming a customer
favorite.
The Africa University Farm Trust
currently has among its projects,
chickens- with 6000 layers providing
eggs and the Broiler section yielding
400 birds per fortnight. In addition to
this, the farm also has a piggery unit
that sells serviced guilds and pork.
Other livestock operations include
Sheep rearing, rabbits, dairy produc-
tion and beekeeping with a beef pen
fattening project in the works. Crops
are also grown that include tomatoes,
cabbages, potatoes and Soya Beans.
The farm is also a contributor to the
national Command Agriculture Pro-
gramme that seeks to increase food
production and security across the
country .
 PUNGWE NEWS, JUNE 21-27, 2021
Mupfumi continues to empower
vulnerable communities
Simbarashe Muparaganda
& John Chamboko
MUTARE -Over 100 less privileged
families in Dangamvura-Chikanga
constituency received food hampers
courtesy of Zanu PF Central Com-
mittee member Dr Isau Mupfumi
through his Charity Initiative.
The business mogul, who is also
the ruling party aspiring candidate
for Dangamvura-Chikanga constitu-
ency, is running developmental and
empowerment programmes which
includes Covid-19 awareness cam-
paigns and sport tournaments.
He also acquired 11 gold mining
claims to economically empower
youths and women in the constitu-
ency.
Under the Charity Initiative, the
businessman deployed party leaders
to move around the constituency and
identify those who can qualify to be
the benefactors of initiative regard-
less of their political affiliation.
During the food distribution, par-
ty leaders took the opportunity to
remind locals to strictly adhere to
Covid-19 regulations imposed by
the government of masking up, san-
itizing hands and maintaining social
distance.
Dr Mupfumi said as the shadow
MP, he has resumed his develop-
mental and empowerment pro-
grammes in the constituency.
“As the shadow MP for Dan-
gamvura Chikanga, I have resumed
developmental and empowerment
programs which are set to benefit
my constituency. I have deployed
some party leaders on Tuesday, to
Murambinda residents conduct cleanup campaign
Linda Viriri
MURAMBINDA residents re-
cently conducted a cleanup cam-
paign in the Central Business Dis-
trict (CBD) in a bid to reduce the
spread of diseases and ensure their
environment is clean.
President Emmerson Mnangag-
wa recognizing the constitutional
mandate to uphold environmental
fundamental rights and freedoms
provided for in section 73 of the
constitution of Zimbabwe the
“right to an environment that is
not harmful to tier health and well
being” and declared every first
Friday of each calendar month as
a National Clean Up Day.
The world is moving towards
the achievement of the Sustain-
able Development Goals (SDG)
by 2030 and Zimbabwe certainly
contributes to this vision as shown
by the Government led in declar-
ing National Clean Up Day.
After government relaxed
Covid-19 restrictive measures, lo-
cals in Murambinda reorganized
themselves and reintroduced the
clean up exercise following World
Health Organisation (WHO) pro-
tocols and guidelines aimed at
Zanu PF Central Committee member Dr Isau Mupfumi through his Charity Initiative donated food hampers to over 100 less
privileged families in Dangamvura-Chikanga constituency
move around the constituency rais-
ing awareness on the current Covid
regulations and identify the needy in
the community.
“I was touched by the feedback I
received and decided to send them
back the following day to give some
food hampers to the vulnerable,”
said Dr Mupfumi.
He said some families were strug-
gling to fend for themselves, hence
his decision to intervene and cush-
ion them.
“Some families are struggling to
fend for themselves, hence my in-
tervention in complimenting gov-
ernment`s efforts and initiatives to
cushion the vulnerable members of
the society,” said the business mo-
gul.
The food hampers which were
Residents recently conducted a cleanup campaign in Murambinda’s Central Business District
(CBD) in a bid to reduce the spread of diseases and ensure their environment is clean.
containing the spread of the pan-
demic.
The initiative was launched in
Birchenough Bridge last month.
The campaign was spearheaded
by Chancemore Dzete from the
department of Social Service who
encouraged people to participate
NEWS
distributed per ward district, com-
prised a 2kg rice, 2 litres cooking
oil, 2kg sugar and 1kg salt.
Besides food hampers, the shadow
MP donated masks to the communi-
ty and highlighted that the exercise
was ongoing.
“The exercise is ongoing and it
is going to benefit more vulnerable
members of the community,” he
said.
Dr Mupfumi said he is committed
to continue giving wings of hope to
those that are in needy as well as
assisting those who seek medical
services.
“The executive party members are
also going to move around with a
doctor to assist some identified indi-
viduals who are seriously in need of
medical assistance in their homes,”
in such activities in their num-
bers.
“There is need to remind the
general public as well as business
operators and vendors to partici-
pate in such activities,” Dzete told
Pungwe News on the sidelines of
the cleaning exercise.
he added.
Beneficiaries of Mupfumi Charity
Initiative praised the businessman,
saying they were struggling to make
ends meet due to Covid-19 induced
lockdowns.
Joyce Dengura, a single mother
from Gimboki expressed gratitude
to Dr Mupfumi for the good gesture.
“It is very hard to live as a sin-
gle mother without any means of
income but today my children will
have a decent meal. I would like to
thank you Dr Mupfumi for this good
gesture may God bless you,” said
Dengura.
Chikanga Ward 16A Mujaji fam-
ily was grateful to Dr Mupfumi for
the food hamper they received.
The family also appealed to the
shadow MP to assist their son with
Buhera District Environmental
Officer, Nevison Misi said mem-
bers of the public must be educated
so that they change their behavior.
Let’s educate them, most of
them doesn’t know the importance
of cleaning the environment espe-
cially vendors,” said Misi.
page 07
medical services and a wheel chair
since the boy is in a critical condi-
tion and cannot walk.
“Dr Mupfumi is surely a philan-
thropist. He has been continuous-
ly giving me support through and
through. May God give him more
strength to continue doing good
works for the constituency,” said
Mujaji.
Agatha Simende of Fern Valley
expressed her happiness after she
received her food hamper as she had
run out of food.
“I am very happy because I had
run out of food. I survive on selling
clay pots and since the outbreak of
the pandemic last year my business
nosedived and I was struggling to
put food on the table for my kids,”
said Simende.
A local vendor identified as
Muganga praised the cleanup
campaign and encouraged others
to participate in the exercise, say-
ing it’s good to keep their environs
clean.
“It`s good to clean the environ-
ment clean. People must be en-
couraged to clean the environment
all the time,” said Muganga.
The dictum-“Zimbabwe Is
Open For Business” must be sup-
ported by welcoming clean, safe,
and healthy environment to woo
investors.
This thrust provides an opportu-
nity for reconstruction and trans-
formation of the economy to one
which is capable of creating max-
imum opportunities for people to
live a full and dignified life, not
only for this generation but also
for generations to come.
Addressing waste manage-
ment challenges that have ris-
en and proven to be thorn in the
side worldwide contributes to the
achievement of vision of SDG 11
on Sustainable Cities and Com-
munities and SDG 12 on Respon-
sible Consumption and Production
respectively.
page 08
CNP
Community Newspaper
Publishing
(Zimbabwe’s largest Newspaper
Publishing Group)
ZimParks raises alarm over
increase in wildlife attacks
OVERPOPULATION of ele-
phants and other surges in wildlife
numbers is increasing the chances
of human-animal contact and rais-
es the chances that more people
will be killed or injured by the an-
imals, warns the Zimbabwe Parks
and Wildlife Management Author-
ity (Zimparks).
Zimparks spokesperson Tinashe
Farawo recently said due to over-
population of the elephants, hu-
man-animal conflicts were now a
major challenge in low-lying com-
munities that shared boundaries
with game reserves.
Farawo said most of the fatali-
ties will be recorded during this
dry season in communities near
wildlife habitats where animals
will be increasingly coming into
Mining syndicate issued $800k
ticket for land degradation
Kudzaishe Mayimboti
SHURUGWI -Musasa Mining
Syndicate, which is mining ille-
gally near Mutevekwi River using
heavy equipment, has allegedly
caused serious land degradation
since the beginning of the year
and has been issued a $800 000
ticket by the Environmental Man-
agement Agency (EMA).
According to EMA, the mining
syndicate has allegedly damaged
about seven hectares of farming
land.
EMA spokesperson Oswald
Ndlovu said Musasa Mining Syn-
dicate, which is involved in allu-
vial gold mining, is operating il-
legally without an Environmental
Impact Assessment certificate.
“As we assessed the situation,
we issued Musasa Mining Syndi-
cate with a Level 14 ticket which
is valued at $800 000 for the vi-
olation of alluvial mining regula-
tions,” said Ndlovu.
COVID19 spreads when someone with the
virus coughs, sneezes or talks.
To protect yourself and others:
* Wear a mask
* Cover your mouth and nose with your
elbow when you cough or sneeze
* Wash your hands
NEWS FROM
0THER PROVINCES
contact with humans after straying
in search of food and water.
“To date we have already lost 30
lives around the country to wild
animals, while some were injured
and the most dangerous animals
have been crocodiles and ele-
phants,” he said.
”We are doing awareness cam-
paigns to educate people on what
they are supposed to do to protect
themselves from wild animals.
“We encourage people to mini-
mise movement at night to avoid
wild animals because they move a
lot during the night.
“Most of our game parks are
now overpopulated and this in-
creases the propensity of our
wild animals to move in search of
scarce food and water.”
He added that the illegal mining
activities by the syndicate has left
the land inhabitable and degrad-
ed.
“We also ordered them to reha-
bilitate the degraded area which is
more than seven hectares within
seven days,” said Ndlovu.
The EMA spokesperson said
the use of mercury in alluvial
gold mining poses health risk to
humans and ecosystems around
the Musasa area especially to
the locals who use water from
Mutevekwi river for domestic
purposes.
“Issues to do with illegal min-
ing within the Midlands Province
is an issue of concern and those
using equipment are worse since
the level of degradation is huge
and is actually against the Nation-
al Development Strategy (NDS 1)
which is for environmental pro-
tection.
“We would like to encourage
Recently, a 30-year-old man
from Kariba was trampled to death
when a herd of elephants invaded
his field, while an elderly man
from Hurungwe lost his life after
he was attacked by an elephant.
Elephants accounted for half of
the killings, followed by croco-
diles at 40 percent, with lions and
buffaloes at 10 percent.
Farawo expressed concern over
increasing cases of human-wild-
life conflict and the loss of lives.
There are six animal species that
are classified as dangerous in Zim-
babwe.
These animals are listed in the
ninth schedule of the Parks and
Wildlife Act as buffaloes, ele-
phants, hippos, leopards, lions,
and rhinoceros.
all miners within the province
to ensure that they adhere to
all applicable legislation before
venturing into mining,” said
Ndlovu.
NDS1 targets to increase mined
areas rehabilitated from 2 500
hectares in 2020 to 10 000 hect-
ares by 2025. On strategies to
achieve sustainable mining, the
government will enforce laws for
the rehabilitation of mined areas,
strengthening monitoring and
environmental assessments and
capacitating local authorities to
manage the environment.
The NDS1 will also look into
the formalisation and capacitation
of the small-scale miners through
the Mining Industry Loan Fund,
opening of new and resuscitation
of closed mines, establishment of
a gold reserve fund, plugging of
mineral leakages and the finalisa-
tion and implementation of policy
and legislative framework.
PUNGWE NEWS, JUNE 21-27, 2021
Zimparks spokesperson Tinashe Farawo
Woman raped and
murdered in Bikita
Olivia Njaravani
Masvingo police are investigating the suspected rape and mur-
der of 18-year-old Laiza Ngirichi near Mashoko Business Centre
in Bikita last weekend.
The incident is believed to have happened on June 12 after a
14-year-old boy from Hwiridzo Village, Chief Mabika, Bikita,
stumbled upon the body of the victim on June 13 around 6am.
The juvenile was walking towards Mashoko Business Centre
when he observed some struggle marks along the footpath he was
using. He decided to investigate and stumbled upon the body of the
female adult partially hidden in the bush.
He rushed back to the village and informed John Chimoga, (44),
a member of police constabulary who in turn informed Mashoko
police who attended the scene and removed the body to Mashoko
Mission Hospital for a post mortem.
The body of the deceased had deep cuts on the head, bruises on
the right thigh, blood on the face and indications that the victim
had also been raped.
On June 14, the body was positively identified by Bodia Ngir-
ichi, (56), from Matedzi Mukwazi Range, Village 6, Chiredzi, as
that of his daughter, Laiza.
Masvingo police provincial spokesperson, Inspector Kudak-
washe Dehwa confirmed the incident and said investigations are
under way.
He appealed to members of the public that might have informa-
tion about the murder to come forward and assist the police inves-
tigations
 PUNGWE NEWS, JUNE 21-27, 2021
Implement permanent not
piece meal measures-rights
group urges council
Man with 39 wives dies in India Simbarashe Muparaganda
MUTARE Residents and Rate-
payers Association (MRRA) has
called on the local authority to
implement permanent measures
as opposed to piecemeal solutions,
saying this is detrimental to the de-
velopment of the city.
MRRA Programmes director,
David Mutambirwa said the coun-
cil has a long history of putting
temporary solutions which are
counterproductive.
Mutambirwa was responding
to deputy Mayor Farai Bhiza who
NEW DELHI: A 76-year-old man who had 39 wives and 94 children and had earlier on said council was
was said to be the head of the world’s largest family has died in northeast temporarily settling vendors at
India, the chief minister of his home state said. Sakubva Beit hall to pave way for
Ziona Chana, the head of a local Christian sect that allows polygamy, the construction of a state-of-the-
died on Sunday, Zoramthanga, the chief minister of Mizoram and who art flea market in Sakubva under
goes by one name, said in a tweet. the Urban Renewal project.
With a total of 167 members, the family is the world’s largest, accord- “Judging from past events, Mu-
ing to local media, although this depends on whether you count the grand- tare City has a history of imple-
children, of whom Ziona has 33. menting temporary measures to be
Winston Blackmore, the head of a polygamous Mormon sect in Cana- permanent.
da, has around 150 children from 27 wives — 178 people in total. “A good example is Sakubva
Ziona, 67, poses for a picture at the construction site of a church in Bak- flea market which was established
tawng village in the northeastern Indian state of Mizoram on Oct 5, 2011.
as temporary way back. The mar-
Ziona lived with his family in a vast, four-storey pink structure with
ket has gone beyond 10 years of
around 100 rooms in Baktawng, a remote village in Mizoram that became
a tourist attraction as a result, according to Zoramthanga.
existence. Is this still temporary?
The sect, named “Chana”, was founded by Ziona’s father in 1942 and “This is wrong, we recommend
has a membership of hundreds of families. Ziona married his first wife city fathers to in-calculate a cul-
when he was 17, and claimed he once married 10 wives in a single year. ture of consultations when they
They shared a dormitory near his private bedroom, and locals said he make decisions which affect lives
liked to have seven or eight of them by his side at all times.
Despite his family’s huge size, Ziona told Reuters in a 2011 interview
he wanted to grow it even further.
Mutare Mart facing penalties for abusing
“I am ready to expand my family and willing to go to any extent to
marry,” he said. foreign exchange auction system
“I have so many people to care for and look after, and I consider myself Simbarashe Muparaganda
a lucky man.”
MUTARE Mart in the eastern bor-
Decuplets father can’t locate der city of Mutare has been listed
among entities facing penalties for
wife, babies, blocks donations abusing the foreign exchange auc-
TEBOHO Tsotetsi, the decuplets father has blocked donations for the tion system.
babies as he can’t locate his wife and the babies since last week when she In a statement, Reserve Bank of
allegedly gave birth. Zimbabwe (RBZ) boss, John Man-
In a police statement on Saturday – in support of a missing person in- gudya said Mutare Mart and other
quiry – Tsotetsi told the police he was concerned about Gosiame Thamara 17 entities that include National
Sithole’s whereabouts and her safety since she told him he was not al- Foods(Pvt) Ltd, Natural Stone Ex-
lowed to see his decuplets due to Covid-19 regulations. port, Classic Energy to mention
Speaking to Pretoria News after submitting the statement, Tsotetsi said a few, will be dealt with in
in a WhatsApp message: accordance with Statutory In-
“I appreciate the financial support that we have been getting from mem-
strument (SI) 127.
bers of the public, but I also would like to appeal to the public to stop
“Accordingly, after inves-
making money deposits into our accounts until members of the commu-
tigations by the Financial In-
nity have seen the babies.”
He said he had seen his heavily pregnant wife for the last time on 7 telligence Unit and the Bank`s
June, Sunday night when he accompanied her to the Esangweni Clinic in Exchange Control Division,
Tembisa, after she complained about labour pains. the entities listed hereunder
Almost a week after Sithole repeatedly failed to tell him where she was, were abusing the foreign ex-
Tsotetsi said he gave the police a statement in support of their inquiry on change auction system shall be
Saturday. dealt with in accordance with SI
The inquiry came after Tsotetsi’s family members opened a missing 127,” said the apex bank Chief.
person case at the Tembisa South police station on Thursday. He said the Central bank has a
In his statement, Tsotetsi said Sithole informed him that she was initial- duty of care to ensure that signif-
ly at Mediclinic Medforum Hospital before she requested to be moved to icant progress that the economy
the lodge facilities of the Steve Biko Academic Hospital (SBAH). made since the introduction of the
He said he sent her a WhatsApp message informing her that he was foreign exchange auction in June
being harassed by the police who are investigating a case of a missing 2020 continues on an unabated pos-
person because her whereabouts are unknown. Further reads the message: itive trajectory while at the same
“I had been tracked by the police, and If they get hold of me I will be time protecting consumers and fos-
arrested as I am a suspect now because I am the last person to see you. I tering compliance to engender fair
really needed to see you but my priority is our safety. Please forward me
play in the economy.
your picture and the pictures of our babies.”
“It is against these noble objec-
Sithole reportedly said she was at Tshwane District Hospital, Dr Savage
tives that SI127 was put in place to
Road, Pretoria.
NEWS
of people,” said Mutambirwa
during a stakeholders engagement
meeting which was held in the city
recently.
He said it is a tragedy that coun-
cil continues to make decisions
which negatively impact on peo-
ple they purport to serve.
“It is a tragedy that council
persists to make decisions which
negatively affects the people it
purports to serve. They must re-
spect the objectives of people
who established these facilities,”
said MRRA programmes coordi-
nator.
He said it is disrespectful to pa-
triotic Zimbabweans who were
born and bred in Sakubva high
density suburb to tamper with their
historical sites.
“They are also being disrespect-
ful to patriotic Zimbabweans (res-
idents born and bred in Sakubva)
who once voluntarily refurbished
these facilities after being neglect-
ed by the administration.
“They mobilised resources un-
der the Rebuild Initiative and re-
habilitated the historic monument
to a pristine modern facility. It is
now offering services such as li-
brary, youth centre and venue for
entertainment and meetings such
provide penalties against errand en-
tities that were at the fore front of
abusing foreign exchange system to
the detriment of the economy,” said
Mangudya.
Going forward in recommenda-
tion from the business community
on the need
to continue enhancing stability in
the economy, the central bank chief
said, the bank`s effort to folster
compliance in terms of SI 127 shall
be limited to outliers that wantonly
abuse the foreign exchange system,
exchange manipulation and non
compliance with anti money laun-
dering rules and regulations.
“The Bank`s focus on these key
page 09
as Parliamentary public hearings,”
said Mutambirwa.
Former Mutare Mayor, Brian
James said the arrangement to
convert recreational facilities into
business entities will annoy well
wishers who once refurbished Beit
Hall.
“I hope it’s a temporary arrange-
ment! This facility was recently
refurbished by community mem-
bers and donor funding.
“One wonders if that sort of as-
sistance would be forth coming in
the future if the facilities are to be
converted at the whim of council
management,” said James.
Mutare City Council spokesper-
son, Spren Mutiwi said the estab-
lishment of a flea market at Beit
Hall is a temporary measure to
assist informal traders, hence will
not impact on other services like
a library and youth centre among
others.
“We have temporarily used an
open space to assist informal trad-
ers back to work. All other facili-
ties and services designed for the
use of Sakubva Beithall are still
being carried out and the flea mar-
ket does not interfere or conflict
with such services provisions,”
said Mutiwi.
areas, coupled with business reality
check, self discipline, self moni-
toring and peer review will sustain
exchange rate stability that are nec-
essary for the economy to continue
to rebound,” said Mangundya.
Confederation of Zimbabwe Re-
tailers (CZR) President Denford
Matashu assures the public there
will be zero tolerance on arbiterage,
profiteering and artificial short-
ages.
“Business are reminded
that they are in the business-
es of selling products or ser-
vices, not cash and should
not aid or fuel the foreign
currency parallel market,”
said Matashu.
He hoped that there will
be an increase in banking of
foreign currency by business.
Matashu said the business need
to reciprocate that gesture by self
monitoring and enforce self disci-
pline among sector players to price
responsibly and act in a manner that
protects citizens and consumers.
After meeting RBZ Governor,
Matashu said the SI 127 was tar-
geting those abusing auction funds,
manipulators of exchange rate and
those that do not bank funds.
“He told us that SI 127 is meant
to ensure compliance,“ said CZR
president.
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PUNGWE NEWS

MAJESA shift to one-on-

one training session
John Chamboko
MUTARE -Manicaland Junior
Excellence Soccer Academy
(MAJESA) has shifted to an one-
on-one training session following
the recent suspension of sporting
activities by the Sports and Rec-
reation Commission (SRC) as part
of the new Covid-19 restrictions
aimed at curtailing the spread of
the pandemic.
Academy Manager, Samson
Kabwe acknowledged that the
current pandemic is hitting hard
on many sectors and sport sector is
no exception.
“We pray to God to help us and
overcome this crisis,” said Kabwe.
He applauded the measures be-
ing taken by government to pro-
of sporting activities by SRC is
good but on the other hand it af-
fects the performance of players.
“Last time, we had a challenge
as six of our young boys ended up
taking drugs during the first lock-
down phase. It was a painful situa-
tion to the Academy.
“We have adopted one-on-
one training to keep the boys in
shape and also combat drug abuse
amongst youths. Remember play-
ers are role models so we are
grooming and nurturing the soccer
role models for the generations to
come.
“We advised our boys to stay
away from drugs because they
will ruin their prospective career.
We will be doing online trainings
help in grooming responsible citizens and
leaders of tomorrow,” said Kabwe.
He added: “We are equally impressed with
our partnership with Mutare Junior School
they gave us a classroom so we will take our
players there and educate them on various
aspects of the game as far as discipline is
concerned.
“Discipline is not only confined to the
Academy but society at large as well,” said
Kabwe.
He also urged clubs to adhere to Covid- 19
regulations as the government finds a way
for the resumption of the sports.
“Covid is real but we are living in it and a
lot of talent is lost because of the suspension
of sports in the country. There must be train-
ing phased approach to limit the numbers of
Academy Manager, Samson Kabwe
the players at the training ground,” he said.

Sports Commission blue-ticks

tect the citizenry against the novel as well” said Kabwe.
Coronavirus. MAJESA manager expressed
Majesa Academy will roll out gratitude to the existing relation-

calls for football to continue

one-on-one training at the back
drop of the suspension of sporting
activities as a way of curbing drug
abuse by the youths.
Kabwe said that the suspension
ship between the Academy and
local schools.
“We are grateful to local
schools for offering scholarships
to Academy players. This will
The Sports and Recreation Com-
mission (SRC) has released a list
of sporting disciplines classified
as ‘low risk’ and will be allowed
to continue despite governing ban-
ning all sports amid measures to
curb surging cases of Covid-19.
Last week, Vice President Con-
Covid-19 crisis.
All sporting activities are cur-
rently temporarily suspended amid
the government-enforced lock-
down to mitigate the spread of the
novel pandemic.
In his latest state of the nation
address though, President Emmer-
Committee, Zimbabwe Olympic
Committee and others are keen to
resume sporting activities amid the
Level 2 lockdown in the middle of
the
Covid-19 pandemic. The anxi-
ety came after realising that some
sporting codes when carefully

STOP PRESS
stantino Chiwenga, who is also the
Minister of Health, announced that
all gatherings and sports were now
outlawed as the President Emmer-
son Mnangagwa reduced the lock- programmed can be implemented
down pa- rameters at the same time adhering to lock-
down parameters pronounced by
His Excellency.”

... is your company getting a Fair

son Mnangagwa-led administra- “Zimbabwe can systematical-
tion battles to keep the novel ly re-introduce the sporting
virus in check. events after strategically pro-
Share of the market? It is a known However, there was hope
that football would be giv-
gramming and planning for
a smooth implementation.

fact that many people read en a reprieve, basing on the

fact that since the Chibuku
The aim is to provide an
enabling platform for some

PUNGWE NEWS every week.

Super Cup began, only one sporting codes to hold
positive result had been re- training, competitions and
corded, with top-flight clubs continue their leagues amid
working hand-in-glove to en- the Covid-19 lockdown guid-
sure that Covid-19 measures put ed by precautionary measures

To get to the people advertise in the in place by the World Health Or-
ganisation (WHO) would be strict-
pronounced and being enforced
by the government. We aim to

newspaper that goes places, and

ly-followed.
The SRC did confirm on Mon-
day that all sports are now banned
get your Fair Share. but today released a list of ‘low
risk’ disciplines such as cricket,
golf, chess, table tennis and bad-
to Level 2.
Through a memorandum in our
possession, the Ministry laid a
platform for the resumption of
sport in the country by categoriz-
work in partnership with our usual
stakeholders including medical ex-
perts and those that will be defined
essential when implementing this
strategy,” reads the memo.
Low risk sporting disciplines as

Contact Cliff on minton, tennis, athletics and mo-

tor sport now allowed to resume,
while football was not included.
Cell: 0777 380 875 The Ministry of Youth, Sport
and Recreation has outlined mea-
sures ought to be taken for some
of the country’s sporting disci-
plines to resume in the wake of the
ing disciplines into three; low risk,
medium risk and high risk.
“The Ministry of Youth, Sport,
Arts and Recreation and its stake-
holders notably the Sports and
Recreation Commission, Zimba-
bwe Wrestling and Control Board,
Zimbabwe National Paralympic
indicated in the memorandum in-
clude tennis, shooting, athletics,
swimming, darts, golf and chess.
Medium risk sporting codes in-
clude weight-lifting, badminton,
softball and baseball while high
risk ones include soccer, wrestling
rugby and basketball.