By Southerton Business Times | Marondera Police have identified five people who died when a helicopter crashed at Kudenga Farm near Marondera on Wednesday, as forensic and aviation experts began investigations into the accident. The victims have been identified as businessman Wicknell Munodaani Chivhayo, his wife Lucy Rujeko Muteke, Saneliswe Magagula, Calvin Tafirei Soda, the pilot, and Courage Mutavirwa, the co-pilot. Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said forensic scientists and aviation experts had attended the crash site to assist with investigations. “Police, in conjunction with the relevant experts, are conducting investigations into the circumstances surrounding the helicopter crash,” Nyathi said. The helicopter crashed at Kudenga Farm in the Marondera area on September 30, killing all those aboard, according to police. Initial police information indicated that six people, including two pilots, were aboard the aircraft when it crashed. However, Nyathi's latest statement identified five victims by name. The police did not immediately provide details explaining the discrepancy between the earlier reported number of occupants and the five names released on Thursday. The crash occurred on Wednesday evening at a farm near Waddilove Mission in Marondera. Emergency services attended the scene, while authorities secured the area for investigations and identification procedures. Chivhayo, a prominent Zimbabwean businessman, and Muteke had reportedly travelled to the area in connection with their rural property. The cause of the crash has not yet been established. Investigators are expected to examine the aircraft wreckage, flight information, weather conditions and other evidence as they seek to establish what happened before the helicopter went down. Police have not yet released further details about the circumstances surrounding the flight or whether the helicopter experienced any technical problems before the crash. The investigation remains ongoing. Marondera helicopter crash

Jah Prayzah and Rufaro have postponed their October 3 wedding following the death of businessman Wicknell Chivayo. By Southerton Business Times | Harare Musician Jah Prayzah and his wife-to-be, Rufaro, have indefinitely postponed their wedding following the death of businessman Wicknell Chivayo and four others in a helicopter crash. The wedding, which had been scheduled for Saturday, October 3, in Glen Lorne, Harare, will no longer take place as planned. Jah Prayzah, whose real name is Mukudzeyi Mukombe, announced the postponement on social media on Thursday, a day after Chivayo, his wife Lucy Rujeko Muteke, and three others died when their helicopter crashed at Kudenga Farm in Marondera. The musician said the decision was driven by the family's need to mourn and grieve following the sudden deaths. “Pane nguva yekuti zvimwe zvinhu zvese zvinofanira kumbomira. Out of love, respect and the need to grieve with family, our wedding, which was scheduled for 3 October, has been postponed. We will continue with our wedding plans when the time is right.” Jah Prayzah described Chivayo as more than a friend, saying the businessman had become part of the family and had supported the couple through different stages of their lives. “Wicknell was more than a friend to us. He was family, a brother, and someone who walked closely with us through many chapters of life,” he said. He also extended condolences to the families of the other victims. “Our hearts and prayers are also with every family that lost a loved one in this tragedy,” the musician said. Chivayo's Role in the Wedding Chivayo was reportedly a major benefactor of the wedding celebrations and had pledged significant financial support towards the event. The businessman had previously gifted Jah Prayzah a 2026 Ford Ranger Platinum and US$250,000 in cash for his birthday. He had also reportedly offered to pay US$500,000 for legendary musician Thomas Mapfumo to perform at the wedding. The proposed performance formed part of a reported US$1 million arrangement for two shows Jah Prayzah's wedding and Chivayo's birthday celebration. With Chivayo's death, the wedding has now been put on hold indefinitely. Chivayo Helicopter Crash Chivayo, Muteke, and three others died on Wednesday evening, September 30, when their Bell 430 helicopter crashed at Kudenga Farm in Marondera Rural, Mashonaland East. Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire identified the victims as Chivayo, Muteke, her aide Senelisiwe Magagula, pilot Captain Kelvin T. Soda and co-pilot Captain Courage Mutavirwa. The group had reportedly travelled from Gandami in Chikomba, where Chivayo and his wife had been visiting their rural home construction project. The helicopter crashed about 40 minutes after take-off. Police and aviation experts are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. Jah Prayzah said the couple would resume their wedding plans “when the time is right”. Jah Prayzah wedding postponed

Zimbabwean students prepare to represent the country at international championships in Romania By Southerton Business Times | Harare A team of Zimbabwean students drawn from some of the country's leading schools is representing the nation at upcoming international championships in Romania, following an intensive selection and preparation process. The delegation brought together young academic achievers, debaters and innovators who will compete against students from different countries, allowing them to showcase their abilities on an international platform. The Zimbabwean team is being led by Nqobile Dube, who is serving as Head of Delegation. Meet the Zimbabwean Team The official delegation comprises eight students from schools in Harare and Manicaland: Mukudzei Mharadzano – Milestone College Tafadzwa Mwagura – Milestone College Giovanni Nyatsambo – Tynwald High School Ziyanda Zawe – Tynwald High School Courtney Joseph – Adventist High School Sarah Msipa – Celebration International School Amyra Jayn – Hellenic Academy Tinodaishe Makwiranzou – St John’s College The students were selected following national trials and have undergone intensive preparations ahead of the Romanian championships. Their preparation has brought together students from different schools and backgrounds, creating a national team that will compete under the Zimbabwean flag. From National Trials to the International Stage Participation in the championships follows a rigorous selection process designed to identify students capable of competing at an international level. The delegation includes students with interests and achievements spanning academic disciplines, debating and innovation. For the young competitors, the event represents more than an overseas trip. It offers an opportunity to test their knowledge and skills against their international peers while gaining exposure to different cultures, education systems and approaches to problem-solving. International academic competitions can also give students experience in public speaking, teamwork, critical thinking and communicating ideas in unfamiliar environments. Schools Rally Behind Young Achievers Parents, schools and education stakeholders have rallied behind the delegation as the students prepare for their journey to Romania. The participation of students from institutions including Milestone College, Tynwald High School, Adventist High School, Celebration International School, Hellenic Academy and St John's College also highlights the contribution of different schools to Zimbabwe's pool of young talent. For the participating students, representing Zimbabwe provides an opportunity to demonstrate what young Zimbabweans can achieve beyond the country's borders. Their performance in Romania will also allow them to build relationships with fellow students from other countries and potentially establish international networks that could prove valuable in their future academic journeys. Carrying the Zimbabwean Flag As the team prepares to leave for Romania, the focus is now on translating months of preparation into performance when the competition begins. The students will enter the championships carrying not only the expectations of their schools and families but also the responsibility of representing Zimbabwe on an international stage. Their journey is a reminder that Zimbabwe's young people are already participating in global academic and intellectual spaces and that opportunities for international exposure can help nurture the next generation of scholars, innovators and leaders. For Dube and the student delegation, the immediate mission is clear: represent Zimbabwe, compete with confidence, and make the most of the international opportunity. Zimbabwe students Romania championships Eight Zimbabwean students from leading schools are preparing to represent the country at international championships in Romania.

By Mpundu Valerie | Harare Every creative journey begins with an idea. For Vimbai M. Dondo, one small WhatsApp sticker became the spark that changed the direction of her life. Bursting with ideas and driven by an urge to explore her artistic identity, Dondo founded iCreate in 2024, turning years of media experience and a passion for visual storytelling into a creative design venture. A graduate in Film, Radio, Journalism and Television Production from the University of Zimbabwe, Dondo spent five years working in the media industry before following what she describes as her true calling digital visual design. Her breakthrough came from an unexpectedly modest project. “My first project was a WhatsApp response sticker for a well-known corporate brand. They paid me $10 for it. That was my eureka moment. I discovered my truth. “I-AM-CREATIVE.” That discovery became the foundation of her creative identity. Dondo describes her signature as the modernisation of historical visuals, bringing contemporary life to culture, heritage and memory. “My genre is defined by uniqueness. Every design I touch must be different, unforgettable and intentional,” she said. A Woman Valuing Her Creative Voice For Dondo, creativity is also about recognising the value of one's own intellectual and artistic contribution. “As a woman in this industry, I stand by this belief: No design is worth less than the value you place on it. The more you value your creative mind, the more the world will value it too,” she said. It was with that confidence that the self-styled “Creativity Goddess” turned her attention to the Gunyana Award, a trophy whose design she says goes beyond aesthetics. For Dondo, the award is a visual conversation about Ubuntu, justice, equality, leadership and community. The Mbira at the Heart of the Award At the foundation of the Gunyana is the mbira, a Zimbabwean musical instrument whose symbolism, in Dondo's design, extends beyond music. “The Gunyana Award is not just about prestige. It is about Ubuntu I am because we are. No one is left behind. Hence it is placed at the foundation of the trophy.” The mbira provides what she describes as the spiritual and cultural foundation of the award. Above it are scales representing justice and equality. But Dondo argues that justice cannot exist simply as an abstract principle. Giving Justice a Voice “The scales at the top say justice and equality, but the scales alone are silent. The mbira at the bottom gives them a voice,” she explained. She compares the different keys of the mbira to members of society. “Just as all keys must be played for the song to be complete, no key left untouched, no person left behind. A society is only complete when everybody is heard.” In that interpretation, the trophy becomes more than an object presented to an individual. It becomes a statement about collective responsibility. Prestige With Purpose Gold and marble give the award a sense of permanence and prestige, but Dondo says those elements are deliberately balanced by the symbolism of the mbira. “Gold and marble show prestige, but the mbira shows purpose.” She draws on the communal role traditionally associated with mbira music to explain her thinking. “In our tradition, the mbira is never played for an individual; it is played to heal a community.” The Gunyana, therefore, honours people whose achievements extend beyond personal status. “This award honours people whose greatness is not in their title, but in how they have used their prestige to heal, uplift and restore dignity to the forgotten.” When the Ancestors Become Witnesses For Dondo, the award also carries a spiritual dimension. “To receive this award is to be recognised not just by people, but by our values. The mbira symbolises that your good deeds have echoed to the ancestors. You embody Hunhu/Ubuntu.” The symbolism continues through the idea of balance. “The mbira is the symbol of balance between the spiritual and physical, the powerful and the vulnerable, the rich and poor. A true leader, like a good mbira player, makes harmony out of different notes.” More Than a Trophy In Dondo's hands, the Gunyana becomes a visual narrative. The gold speaks of achievement. The marble speaks of permanence. The scales speak of justice and equality. But it is the mbira at the foundation that, in her interpretation, gives the award its deepest meaning. It connects achievement to community, prestige to responsibility and leadership to service. The result is a trophy designed not merely to be displayed, but to provoke thought about the kind of society its recipients are helping to build. And perhaps that is the essence of Dondo's own creative philosophy. She began with a $10 WhatsApp sticker and discovered a creative identity. Years later, she is using design to ask bigger questions about culture, leadership, justice and Ubuntu. The Creativity Goddess did not simply unpack the Gunyana. She unpacked a mirror one that asks everyone who looks at it a simple question: What do we do with the power, talent and prestige we have been given? Gunyana Award

Every story is unique, every journey matters This story is based on a survivor's account. Names have been changed to protect privacy. It is published for cancer-awareness purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Anyone with health concerns should consult a qualified healthcare professional. Mpundu Valerie 1 in every 8 women is at risk of breast cancer, which is why health experts constantly urge women to perform regular self-examinations. Early detection remains the most powerful weapon against the disease, often making the difference between a simple treatment and a long, painful battle. In Zimbabwe, institutions like Spilhaus Clinic have been at the forefront of teaching women this life-saving habit how to check for lumps while bathing, how to know their bodies, and how to seek help without delay. For many women, this routine becomes second nature. For Gogo Brown, it had indeed become the norm. She checked herself regularly, never missing a chance. But as life got busier, with the responsibility of caring for her 100-year-old mother and other pressures, she slowly let go of the routine. She stopped her appointments at Spilhaus. "We used to go for checkups at Spilhaus. We were taught to self-examine, to check for lumps while bathing, or as often as possible. Having been accustomed to the norm, I let go of the routine. I didn't think it mattered to constantly check," she said. After all, she thought, if she was fine yesterday, what could go wrong today? Then came one random day in February 2021. "It was just on one random occasion I decided to self-examine. I had also stopped going to Spilhaus. I just felt I had a lot going on and my plate was full hence, I stopped the appointments." February 2021, while bathing, I saw blood coming out of my nipples and was totally shocked. At that time, I lost myself for a decent amount of time in the shower trying to figure a lot of things," she said. Looking after her 100-year-old mother, a fountain of knowledge and wisdom, Gogo Brown decided to seek her mother's counsel. As any parent would shield their child from imminent danger, her mother chose to protect her, even if it meant withholding the painful truth. Boldly, she said to her, "It's not cancer!" and quickly shifted her eyes, then bowed down to avoid any eye contact. She wanted to give her child hope for a better tomorrow. She wasn't going to panic in front of her child. Battling in her own thoughts, drowning in her own discoveries, Gogo Brown remembered one lady she had assisted some time back in 2007, who had breast cancer. 'The first hello to her was a ray of hope. A beaming light at the end of my tunnel. I was about to walk into my journey with someone who had walked it before. I still wonder if I hadn't made that call, would things have turned out the way they did? She took me to the Cancer Centre for assistance.' Although Gogo Brown had been counselled by her friend on the way, she was never ready to hear whatever the doctor was going to say inside. Adrenaline was rushing, what she wanted was to be told what her ears wanted to hear. She was neither here nor there. Pre-counselling was offered, and tests were run as blood was coming out of her breast. A scan was done, and her results came on the same day. "On that very same day they told me, ' Mhamha, you have cancer. I literally broke down and started crying." A doctor was assigned to her to conduct a biopsy and also remove the lump. Still in denial, she yearned for a second opinion. "We took the lump for tests, and it really was cancer. I was given two weeks to recuperate after the operation. I went back again and was told they wanted to operate on half of my breast, and if the cancer had progressed, they would remove the whole breast." However, while the doctor's findings were accurate, it was his approach that threw Gogo off. She was dealing with a lot, and being exploited was not something she was ready to embrace. "At first I tried to pay using my PSMAS card, and he totally refused. I had no choice, so I sought funds from my children and ended up paying $1200. The moment he realised there was cash involved, he started being exorbitant, making unnecessary demands, hardly realising that whatever money in my possession was given to me by my children for medical purposes." She decided to consult her family for further assistance, therefore getting a referral far away from that experience. "So on 18 April 2021, I went to Namibia, that's where my operation was done. I stayed there for a couple of weeks till the 30th of April 2021, when I had that operation for breast removal. Imagine I found out at the end of February and the end of April that my breast had been removed. Ndidzo Nyasha dzaJehovah and my cancer was at an early stage," she said. Despite winning her battle with cancer, Gogo Brown has not stopped taking her medication. "I am still on tamoxifen even though I reached my 5-year mark in June 2026 I have been told to continue for another 5 years, taking the tablet. I don't mix herbs with my medication. I only take what the doctor has prescribed," she said. Early detection saves lives. Gogo Brown's story is proof that a single self-check can save your life. She found her cancer in February. By April, it was removed because it was caught early. Had she ignored that bloody discharge, had she waited a year, the story could have been different. Every story is unique, but every journey reminds us of one truth: Know your body. Trust what you feel. Act early. A lump, blood or discharge from the nipple, or a change in breast size or skin don't wait. Visit your local clinic, Spilhaus, or Cancer Centre. Early detection is not just treatment, it is survival. If you have a story, share it your story might save someone. 0774 778 179 breast cancer survivor story Zimbabwe

By Southerton Business Times | Harare The Africa Group of Ambassadors in Harare and the Ambassador of Palestine to Zimbabwe, Dr Tamer Almassri, have expressed condolences to Institute of African Knowledge (INSTAK) Chief Executive Officer Ambassador Kwame Muzawazi following the death of his brother, Malcom Takudzwa Muzawazi, in a fatal dog attack in Southerton. Malcom, 39, died on September 24 after he was attacked by four dogs along a footpath between the ZESA Holdings durawall and Scorpion Empire Car Sale in Southerton. In a condolence message, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of Rwanda to Zimbabwe, James Musoni, said the Africa Group of Ambassadors had received news of Malcom's death with “profound shock and deepest sorrow”. The group extended its condolences to Ambassador Muzawazi, his family and all those who knew Malcom, assuring them of its solidarity during the bereavement. Dr Almassri also conveyed his condolences to the Muzawazi family, describing Malcom's death as a profound loss. Police Investigate Fatal Attack The condolence messages come as police continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the fatal dog attack. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said Malcom was attacked by four dogs while walking along the footpath in Southerton. The dogs were reportedly a male Belgian Malinois and three Belgian Malinois-German Shepherd crossbreeds. According to information previously released by police, the dogs were under the care of a private security guard and had been released from their kennels for feeding when the attack occurred. Police subsequently confirmed the arrest of Scorpion Empire Car Sale owner Gilbert Rumbwere, 44, in connection with the investigation. The circumstances surrounding the arrest and the specific allegations against Rumbwere will be determined through the legal process. No finding of criminal liability has been made against him. Diplomatic Condolences The messages from the diplomatic community add to expressions of sympathy following the death of Malcom, whose brother, Ambassador Muzawazi, is a prominent figure in Zimbabwe's diplomatic and Pan-African circles. The Africa Group of Ambassadors' message emphasised solidarity with the Muzawazi family during what it described as a difficult period. The tragedy has also renewed public concern about the control and management of dogs, particularly animals kept for security purposes in commercial and residential areas. Police have separately urged dog owners and handlers to ensure that animals are properly secured at all times to prevent attacks on members of the public. Investigations into Malcom's death are continuing. Malcom Muzawazi dog attack

By Southerton Business Times | Marondera Prominent Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy “Lulu” Muteke, were among six people killed when a helicopter crashed in Marondera Rural on Wednesday evening. The helicopter crashed at about 5 pm near Waddilove Mission, with police confirming that six people were on board and the Government reporting that there were no survivors. Chivayo's family later confirmed that the businessman and Muteke were among those who died. Family spokesperson Herbert Chivayo confirmed the deaths to ZBC, saying the family was devastated by the tragedy. The identities of the other four victims had not been formally released by police in the latest official updates. National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the crash shortly after the incident, saying the aircraft had six occupants. “The ZRP confirms a plane crash in Marondera Rural area at 5 pm this evening. The aircraft had six occupants. More details will be released in due course as the scene is currently being attended,” Nyathi said. Government Confirms No Survivors Permanent Secretary for Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Nick Mangwana also confirmed the crash. Mangwana said the helicopter was carrying a high-profile businessman, other passengers and two pilots, and that there were no survivors. “The Government wishes to confirm that a helicopter crash has occurred,” Mangwana said, extending condolences to the victims' families and friends. Police initially withheld the identities of those on board, saying next of kin had to be informed and the victims formally identified. The crash caused a fire, according to subsequent reports, complicating the identification process. Flight From Rural Home Initial reports indicate that Chivayo and Muteke had been at their rural property in Gandami, Chikomba, where they were reportedly overseeing construction of their home. The helicopter crashed roughly 40 minutes after take-off, according to reports citing the family. The exact cause of the crash has not been established. Emergency services attended the scene as authorities began investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident. Chivayo, who was 43, was one of Zimbabwe's most prominent and publicly visible businessmen. He was known for his high-profile lifestyle, philanthropy and relationships with prominent political and business figures. He and Muteke married in a high-profile ceremony in 2025. Their deaths have prompted condolences from across the region, including from Kenyan President William Ruto, who described Chivayo as a friend. Authorities are expected to provide further information on the identities of the other victims and the investigation as the process continues. Wicknell Chivayo helicopter crash

By Southerton Business Times | Bulawayo/Harare | September 30, 2026 The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has urged dog owners to properly secure their animals after separate attacks in Bulawayo and Harare left several people injured and one man dead. The warning follows a dog attack in Sauerstown, Bulawayo, on Sunday in which six people, including five juveniles and one adult, were attacked while playing inside a premises. According to the police, the victims sustained injuries and were referred to medical facilities for treatment. “The ZRP reiterates that all dog owners should exercise responsibility and ensure that their dogs are properly secured at all times to prevent attacks on members of the public,” police said. The dog involved in the Bulawayo attack was subsequently killed by members of the community. Harare Attack Leaves Man Dead The latest warning also comes days after a fatal dog attack in Southerton, Harare. On September 24, 39-year-old Malcom Takudzwa Muzavazi was fatally attacked by four dogs along a footpath between the ZESA Holdings durawall and Scorpion Empire Car Sale. The dogs reportedly comprised one male Belgian Malinois and three Belgian Malinois-German Shepherd crossbreeds. Police said the dogs were under the care of a private security guard and had been released from their kennels for feeding when the attack occurred. The circumstances surrounding the fatal attack have raised questions about how security and guard dogs are managed when they are outside their kennels and whether adequate measures are in place to prevent them from accessing members of the public. Police Call for Responsible Ownership Police have not indicated that the two incidents are connected, but the attacks have highlighted the potential risks posed by unsecured or uncontrolled dogs in residential and public areas. Dog owners and handlers are expected to take reasonable precautions to prevent their animals from attacking or escaping into areas where they can come into contact with members of the public. The ZRP's latest appeal places particular emphasis on responsible ownership and ensuring that dogs remain properly secured. The Bulawayo incident also demonstrates the potential vulnerability of children and other members of the public when dogs are able to roam freely. Police urged dog owners to take responsibility for controlling their animals and preventing situations that could result in serious injury or loss of life. The two incidents come as communities continue to rely on dogs for security, particularly at homes, businesses and other properties. However, the attacks underline the need for security arrangements involving dogs to be managed in a way that protects both property and members of the public. Authorities have not provided further details on possible legal action arising from either incident. Zimbabwe dog attacks

By Southerton Business Times | Beitbridge | September 30, 2026 Police in Beitbridge have recovered a Jaguar stolen at gunpoint and rescued a girl who was kidnapped during a separate robbery in the border town, as investigations into a string of armed robberies gather pace. The luxury vehicle was reportedly hijacked at gunpoint on Sunday morning before the suspects fled towards Zvishavane. According to police, the suspects were involved in a road accident in Zvishavane while attempting to escape. The Jaguar was recovered and taken to Zvishavane Police Station for safekeeping pending arrangements to return it to Beitbridge. Acting Officer Commanding Beitbridge District, Superintendent Philisani Ndebele, said police were following strong leads into a series of robberies committed between Saturday night and Sunday morning. “We have positive information about the robberies which occurred on Saturday night into Sunday morning, and we are following it up. We promised the community good news very soon,” Ndebele said. He said six suspects were already in police custody and were assisting with investigations. Their arrests had helped police link them to about eight robbery cases allegedly committed between April and September. “That is a very positive move, and we will continue to work tirelessly,” Ndebele said. Jaguar Suspect Still at Large Ndebele said the suspect allegedly involved in the Jaguar hijacking remained at large after fleeing from the scene of the accident in Zvishavane. No arrest had been made in that specific case by Wednesday, although police said investigations were progressing and further developments were expected. The recovery of the vehicle comes amid heightened concern over armed robberies in Beitbridge, with police stepping up efforts to identify suspects and prevent further attacks. Kidnapped Girl Rescued In a separate case, police rescued a young girl who had been kidnapped during a robbery in Beitbridge's New Medium Density suburb. Ndebele confirmed that the girl had been reunited with her family, although police did not disclose further details about the circumstances of the kidnapping or whether arrests had been made in that case. Police also warned residents against exposing their financial activities, particularly on social media. Ndebele urged people not to keep large amounts of cash at home or publicly announce plans involving substantial sums of money. He also appealed to illegal foreign currency dealers to stop openly displaying cash, saying this could make them targets for criminals. “We have noted that they are being attacked at their homes at night. We call for responsible behaviour from people in possession of large amounts of hard cash,” he said. Police Intensify Night Patrols Ndebele further urged pirate taxi operators to exercise caution when accepting passengers who behave suspiciously and to report unusual activity to police. He said police would intensify night patrols and take action against unnecessary movement at night as part of measures to improve security. Residents were urged to avoid unnecessary night travel and continue providing information that could assist investigators in identifying and arresting suspects. Police said investigations into the robbery cases were continuing. Beitbridge police robberies

By Southerton Business Times | Bulawayo Four people died, and four others were injured after an Inter Africa bus collided with a Honda Fit at an intersection in Bulawayo early Wednesday morning. The crash occurred shortly after 1 am at the intersection of the Bulawayo-Harare highway and Cecil Avenue. The four men who died were trapped inside the wreckage following the collision. Bulawayo Fire and Rescue Services attended the scene and worked to free the victims. Bulawayo Chief Fire Officer Mhlangano Moyo confirmed that all four men were pronounced dead at the scene. The impact extensively damaged the Honda Fit, while the Inter Africa bus veered off the road and overturned onto its right side. Four people survived the collision but sustained injuries and were taken to hospital. A male occupant of the Honda Fit suffered serious head injuries and was taken to Mpilo Central Hospital. Three women travelling on the Inter Africa bus sustained soft-tissue injuries and were transported to United Bulawayo Hospitals. Moyo said emergency personnel treated the injured at the scene before they were transferred to the two hospitals. According to Moyo, the Inter Africa bus was travelling towards Bulawayo city centre along Harare Road when it collided with the Honda Fit, which was entering the intersection from Cecil Avenue. He said the smaller vehicle allegedly failed to give way to the approaching bus. “The Inter Africa bus was travelling westwards along Harare Road when it collided with a Honda Fit which was approaching the give-way intersection from Cecil Avenue,” Moyo said. The circumstances surrounding the collision remain subject to investigation. Police took custody of the four bodies as investigations into the fatal crash continued. The accident comes amid ongoing road-safety concerns in Zimbabwe, where collisions involving public transport vehicles and other motorists continue to result in deaths and serious injuries. Bulawayo Inter Africa bus accident

Disclaimer: This story is based on events from my childhood. Names have been changed for privacy. This post is for cancer awareness purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. For medical concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional. As we raise awareness of cancer, I have decided to start with something closer to home. I grew up in a small but closely knit community somewhere in Mash Central. The houses were evenly spaced, the rooms not enough to accommodate more than 5 people, yet my parents made it work. We were always overcrowded, and nobody belonged anywhere. Where you slept today was not a guarantee you would be sleeping there tomorrow. The place was always packed whoever got to put down their head first had the best spot and posture for as long as we hadn't come as yet. We were packed 10-plus. I grew up in a hospital compound and therefore learnt about a lot of ailments. And best of all was taught on how not to stigmatize and discriminate against any forms of sickness. Back then, cancer hadn't exactly started ravaging, it hadn't been fully fledged. Not many talked about it as HIV and AIDS. Not much attention was given to it. Yet the demon crept in silently. There was one uncle I was fond of, "Uncle Gray Bonzo," as I will call him today. The first time I was introduced to him, I was happy, excited, and over the moon, probably because he owned a very big haulage truck. I loved just going up there whenever he came. Physically fit and always threw me on his shoulder when he came. He often parked a few meters from the compound as his truck wouldn't maneuver the small dusty pathways we had in the community. Ohh, I loved showing him off. To me, he was rich, he had it figured out. Always left a penny or two on each visit. His visits became so frequent I started feeling uncomfortable accepting any money from him, yet still loved him. This time, he wouldn't throw me on his shoulder anymore, with each visit, he seemed to be drastically losing weight. We were raised never to physically diagnose people, no matter our assumptions. The frequent visits became minimal. I kept asking about his whereabouts, & always my dearest mother pulled the patient confidentiality card on me and told me he left for DRC. What did I know... my favourite uncle Gray Bonzo had stage 4 cancer. I remember finally going to his house, was excited to be seeing him. I screamed my heart out at what I saw and asked Where is my uncle? What is happening? I couldn't understand what was going on, was hurt and confused seeing him. My aunt called me in and said, 'kwanzi huya ndivo vakagara pabonde'. It took me time to recover from that. I was in grade 6 then. I pulled myself up and went straight to him, taking careful consideration not to hurt him. I could tell he was in deep pain. I knelt over and embraced him, crying myself at his feet. I knew this wasn't AIDS, this was a new demon that had slowly crept in. I held onto him for dear life I couldn't let go. "Musiyei aone apedze shungu aone sahwira vake," they said, but what I felt inside was nothing no man could explain. I was hurting and couldn't talk. Nobody could numb all this pain. That night I saw cancer. Never got closure. Nobody took me in. Nobody thought I might have been traumatised by the turn of events. I was never sat down. That night I knew of cancer, I saw it with my own eyes. It took my uncle. Uncle Gray Bonzo succumbed that very evening. WHAT IS MUCOEPIDERMOID CARCINOMA (MEC)? Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma is the most common type of cancer that starts in the salivary glands, the glands that make saliva in your mouth, jaw, and throat. It can present as a painless lump in the mouth, face, or neck, swelling that doesn't go away, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained weight loss. LET'S RAISE AWARENESS Cancer doesn't always come with a warning. Sometimes it creeps in silently while we think it's "just weight loss" or "just a swelling." 1. Don't ignore lumps, swellings, or unexplained weight loss. 2. Go for early screening — early detection saves lives. 3. Let's stop stigmatizing sickness. Support, don't isolate. 4. And please — check on the children who watch it happen. Trauma lives long after the funeral. In memory of Uncle Gray Bonzo and everyone we have lost silently. If you have a story, share it. Your story might save someone. 0774 778 179 #CancerAwareness #EarlyDetectionSavesLives cancer awareness

By Staff Reporter | Harare Nine street vendors have been remanded in custody after allegedly throwing stones at Harare municipal police officers during an operation to clear illegal vending sites in the city centre. The accused Regis Karavhina, 43, Mduduzi Ndhlovu, 27, Blessed Chinhema, 34, Tinotenda Muhlupeki, 24, Smart Mafuku, 30, Tatenda Pfuwai, 30, John Mahlangu, 24, Tsungirirai Sanito, 19, and Ezra Besamu, 17, appeared before Harare magistrate Tapiwa Kuhudzai on Monday. They were remanded to Tuesday for a bail hearing. The State alleges the incident occurred on September 26, 2026, when about 80 Harare municipal police officers arrived at the intersection of First Street and Speke Avenue at around 2.45 pm as part of Operation Chenesai Guta. The operation is aimed at removing vendors operating from undesignated areas and relocating them to designated trading sites. According to the State, the municipal police officers were travelling in a convoy of three UD trucks when they encountered the vendors. The prosecution alleges that the accused incited other vendors to resist the enforcement operation, resulting in stones being thrown at the municipal police officers. One of the stones allegedly struck the fender of a Nissan Almera belonging to the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ), causing damage estimated at US$200. Three of the accused were arrested at the scene and taken to Harare Central Police Station. The State alleges that the remaining vendors subsequently regrouped and marched towards Harare City Council's Town House, where they reportedly shouted slogans and denounced the ongoing operation. Police were then called to the scene and arrested the other accused persons. The arrests come as authorities continue efforts to regulate street vending in central Harare, with the city council seeking to move informal traders from pavements and other undesignated spaces. The enforcement campaign has also generated resistance from some vendors who depend on street trading for their livelihoods. The court is expected to deal with the accused persons' bail applications on Tuesday. The allegations against the nine accused have not been tested in court, and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Harare vendors arrested