Ministry warns public about ex‑licensing clerk Oswald Katuwe

Ministry of Local Government building, Harare

HARARE — The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works has issued a public warning about Oswald Katuwe, formerly a Liquor Licensing Clerk in Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, after receiving reports that he has been soliciting money from members of the public while falsely claiming to be a serving government official.

The Ministry said Katuwe was discharged from the Public Service on 7 February 2025 following disciplinary proceedings and is no longer authorised to act on behalf of the Government of Zimbabwe in any capacity. Officials say he has been promising to facilitate the processing and acquisition of liquor licences in exchange for payments.

Ministry statement and public advisory

The Ministry’s advisory stressed that Katuwe is not authorised to represent the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works or the Government of Zimbabwe. It described the reported conduct as fraudulent and criminal and urged anyone who may have been solicited or defrauded to report incidents to the relevant law enforcement agencies.

Key points from the Ministry notice

• Employment status: Katuwe was discharged from the Public Service on 7 February 2025.

• Allegations: He is reported to have solicited and received substantial sums while falsely presenting himself as a serving official.

• Public warning: The Ministry advised the public to exercise extreme caution and said any dealings with Katuwe are undertaken at one’s own risk.

• Reporting: Members of the public and business operators affected are urged to report incidents to the police.

Practical advice for licence applicants

The Ministry’s notice implicitly highlights common safeguards for businesses and individuals seeking official licences:

• Verify identity: Confirm the identity and employment status of any official you deal with by contacting the relevant ministry office directly.

• Use official channels: Submit licence applications and payments only through authorised government offices or the Ministry’s official online portals.

• Request receipts: Always obtain official receipts and written confirmation for payments and application submissions.

• Report suspicious approaches: Notify local police and the Ministry if someone claims to act on behalf of the government but cannot produce verifiable credentials.

Governance and accountability context

The Ministry’s public warning underscores the risks that arise when former officials continue to present themselves as authorised agents. It also reflects a broader emphasis on protecting small businesses and members of the public from fraud and on maintaining the integrity of licensing processes.

At the time of reporting, the Ministry had not published further details about any ongoing investigations or prosecutions related to the allegations.

Oswald Katuwe warning 2026