Current Affairs

Minister Garwe Issues Stern Warning on Corruption in Matabeleland

Published

2 months ago

October 10, 2025

Editor

The Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Hon. Daniel Garwe, has issued a stern warning to councillors and traditional leaders from Bulawayo, Matabeleland North, and Matabeleland South provinces over corruption, mismanagement of funds, poor governance, and illegal land allocations.

Speaking during a meeting with Chiefs, Councillors, Chief Executives, and District Development Coordinators (DDCs) from the three provinces, Hon. Garwe called for urgent reforms to restore integrity, transparency, and accountability in local authorities. He was accompanied by Deputy Minister Hon. A.T. Mavunga.

Hon. Garwe emphasised that Government remains committed to building efficient, transparent, and service-oriented local authorities that drive national development in line with Vision 2030.

“There is a need to promote good governance, coordination, and unity of purpose to deliver quality services to our people,” he said.

The Minister expressed concern over reports that some local authorities in Matabeleland North were using Estate Accounts without ministerial approval and misappropriating funds earmarked for community development. He, however, commended Nkayi Rural District Council for adhering to proper procedures.

“Councils must stop treating local authorities as personal tuckshops. Proceeds from the sale of stands must fund infrastructure such as roads, water, and sewer systems — not personal gain,” he warned.

Hon. Garwe condemned the rise in illegal settlements in districts such as Umguza and Bubi, which he linked to land barons and some traditional leaders.

“Matabeleland North has become notorious for illegal land developments, some dubbed ‘Sabhuku Deals.’ This is unacceptable in the Second Republic and must stop immediately,” he said, warning that those involved would face dismissal and prosecution.

In Matabeleland South, Hon. Garwe said an audit revealed serious administrative and financial irregularities, including weak revenue collection, poor accounting practices, and delayed audits dating back to 2021.

He urged councils to improve billing systems, enforce by-laws, and mobilise communities to pay rates and levies to sustain service delivery.

“Sustainable development can only be achieved when councils have a predictable financial base,” he said.

Hon. Garwe also criticised unethical conduct within councils, including the dismissal of competent staff for political or personal reasons.

“Some of you chase away intelligent employees to hide your wrongdoing. Let us practise self-introspection as leaders,” he said.

He urged local authorities to revive Village and Ward Development Committees (VIDCOs and WADCOs) to strengthen grassroots participation and commended Gwanda, Umzingwane, and Insiza Rural District Councils for effectively using devolution funds to invest in infrastructure and service delivery.

The Minister warned that the Government is monitoring council activities closely and will take action against those involved in illegal dealings.

“The Ministry is aware of what is happening, and the law will catch up with those involved in corruption,” he said.

On social issues, Hon. Garwe called for decisive community action against drug and substance abuse, urging councils to prioritise youth programmes and recreational facilities in their local development plans.

“Drug and substance abuse is a serious threat to our nation’s future. Councils must make youth centres and recreational spaces a priority,” he said.

He encouraged all councillors and traditional leaders to lead with integrity, unity, and dedication to public service.

“Our communities are watching, and the future of our provinces depends on your honesty and hard work,” he said.

Later, Hon. Garwe addressed Provincial Chiefs’ Assemblies from both provinces, assuring traditional leaders that the Government is committed to improving their welfare.

He said President E.D. Mnangagwa is championing the creation of an Economic Empowerment Committee that will involve chiefs, government, and communities in driving inclusive growth and sustainable development.

The meetings were attended by Chiefs, Councillors, DDCs, Chief Executive Officers, Town Secretaries, and Town Clerks, and form part of a nationwide programme to strengthen governance, restore accountability, and accelerate the Vision 2030 agenda through effective local authorities.

Current Affairs

Viral Video Declares: “Zimbabwe Stands Tall as Africa’s Brightest Jewel”

Published

11 hours ago

December 21, 2025

Editor

Itai Mazire

A trending video titled “Top 10 Best Countries to Visit in 2025” has gone viral across TikTok, Facebook and X, following a Forbes announcement that Zimbabwe has been named the number one travel destination in the world for 2025 the first time an African nation has ever topped the Forbes global travel list.

According to the video, Forbes praised Zimbabwe for its expanding tourism sector, improved travel services, and renewed national pride in heritage and conservation.

“It is a country where nature meets spirit, where history meets hope. In 2025, Zimbabwe stands tall as Africa’s brightest jewel proof that the continent can lead the world in beauty, adventure and heart,” the video states.

The clip highlights Zimbabwe’s global appeal, showcasing its breathtaking natural attractions, including Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park. It also draws attention to the country’s rich cultural heritage, reflected in the ancient Great Zimbabwe ruins. Social media users around the world have welcomed the recognition, describing it as long overdue.

The remainder of the viral list features a diverse range of international destinations. Cameroon ranks second, having been celebrated by Lonely Planet as a country that captures nearly every landscape Africa has to offer.

New Orleans places third, recognised for its vibrant culture, Creole cuisine and rich musical heritage. Bhutan ranks fourth, admired for its pristine Himalayan environment and happiness-centred philosophy. The Athens Riviera in Greece comes in fifth, blending golden beaches, ancient ruins and modern coastal elegance.

Asheville, North Carolina follows in sixth place, honoured for its creative spirit and mountain scenery. Amsterdam secures seventh position as it prepares to mark its 750th anniversary, praised for its clean-energy initiatives and cultural innovation.

Longboat Key, Florida ranks eighth for its tranquil luxury and turquoise waters, while Morocco comes ninth, celebrated for the colourful allure of Marrakesh and the sweeping beauty of the Sahara Desert. Santa Monica, California completes the list at number ten, known for its iconic pier, relaxed lifestyle and world-class beaches.

With millions of views and rapidly growing engagement, the viral video has placed Zimbabwe firmly at the centre of global travel conversations, cementing its status as one of the world’s must-visit destinations for 2025.

Current Affairs

Councillor Mujajati Honoured for Outstanding Contribution to the Knowledge Economy

Published

13 hours ago

December 21, 2025

Editor

City of Harare Councillor George Mujajati has been recognised for his exceptional contribution to book and film writing at the Annual Human Resources Awards of Mastery 2025, held yesterday at Mana Pools Resort.

The awards ceremony, hosted by the Blackbelt Human Capital Institute, saw Cllr Mujajati receive a Platinum Certificate for Outstanding Contribution in Advancing the Knowledge Economy, in recognition of his influential role in shaping Zimbabwe’s intellectual and cultural development.

The Blackbelt Human Capital Institute is an internationally accredited organisation and a leading global hub for human resources management, dedicated to promoting excellence and best practices in people development.

A celebrated author, Cllr Mujajati expressed gratitude for the honour, describing it as both humbling and unexpected.

“I am deeply honoured and grateful for this recognition. I never anticipated it. It is not by my own strength or ability, but by the grace of God,” he said.

Cllr Mujajati has authored numerous books, several of which have been prescribed as set books in schools locally and beyond Zimbabwe’s borders. His novel Fear Not My Brother is currently being studied in Namibia, while The Sun Will Rise Again was a prescribed O-Level set book between 2015 and 2019.

Other acclaimed works include The Wretched Ones, used as an O-Level set book, and The Rain of My Blood, which was studied at A-Level.

Beyond fiction, Cllr Mujajati co-authored educational textbooks for the new curriculum, contributing to Science and Technology as well as Agriculture series for Grades Three to Seven.

He has also made a significant impact in broadcasting, having written a radio drama series that aired on ZBC radio stations, with weekly episodes produced consistently over a three-year period.

This recognition underscores Cllr Mujajati’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the knowledge economy and preserving Zimbabwe’s literary heritage. The City of Harare has congratulated him on the achievement and expressed confidence in his continued contribution to the city’s cultural and literary growth.

Current Affairs

Sabhuku Temba Mliswa Invites Karoi Town to Taste Farm Life This Festive Season

Published

2 days ago

December 19, 2025

Editor

Karoi Town and its surrounding areas are gearing up for a festive season like no other, as Sabhuku Temba Mliswa, the proud owner of Spring Resort, throws open the gates to what he calls “a new home away from home for all families.”

With the official opening of the brand-new Caravan Park and Butchery, Spring Resort is stepping confidently into its role as a family haven. Sabhuku Mliswa has dubbed the family event the “Tshisa Nyama Festival,” a place where visitors can relax, enjoy nature and experience the freshness of true farm living.

Spring Resort owner Sabhuku Temba Mliswa said the festive season is a period when everyone needs to experience farm life and wake up to the routines of adventurous farm living.

“We want families to reconnect with the land, to taste real farm produce and to feel the peace that comes from being close to nature.

Spring Resort is not just a place to visit; it is an experience, a lifestyle and a reminder of what wholesome living feels like,” said Sabhuku Mliswa.

The festival atmosphere is set to run throughout the season and beyond, with sizzling meats straight from the farm, fresh garden produce and wide open spaces designed for both children and adults to unwind.

Sabhuku Mliswa said the resort’s mission goes far beyond entertainment.

“Our Caravan Park and Butchery mark a new chapter for this community.
We are offering families a safe, peaceful and affordable space to relax not just for the holidays, but all year round,” he said.

Families across Karoi Town and surrounding areas are encouraged to come out, sample the farm-fresh offerings and explore a destination built with their comfort in mind.

“This place is here to stay. Spring Resort is your home a place where memories are made, where children can run free and where everyone can enjoy the true taste of farm life,” he said.