Engineer Cletus Nyachowe has been appointed Group Chief Executive Officer of ZESA (Private) Limited with effect from May 1, 2026. Engineer Cletus Nyachowe has been appointed Group Chief Executive Officer of ZESA (Private) Limited, taking permanent charge of Zimbabwe’s restructured electricity utility with effect from May 1, 2026. The appointment was announced by ZESA board chairman Albert Joel Nduna, who said Nyachowe’s elevation followed the restructuring of the ZESA Group into a single, vertically integrated electricity utility. The restructuring brings key electricity functions under ZESA (Private) Limited, including generation, transmission, distribution, system planning and commercial services. Cabinet approved the restructuring in August as part of efforts to improve operational efficiency, strengthen the utility’s financial position and support Zimbabwe’s drive towards energy self-sufficiency by 2030. Nyachowe, an electrical engineer and experienced utility executive, joined ZESA in 1988 and has held several senior technical and executive positions during his career. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Zimbabwe. He is also a registered professional engineer and a Fellow of the Zimbabwe Institution of Engineers. Before taking over as substantive Group CEO, Nyachowe served as acting chief executive following the death of former ZESA executive chairman Sydney Gata in July 2025. His previous responsibilities included serving as managing director of Powertel Communications, where he was involved in developing the ZESA subsidiary's data-focused telecommunications business. He subsequently served as ZESA Holdings executive director for Group Operations and later as executive director responsible for international business. His career has also included responsibility for the country's electricity transmission infrastructure and consultancy work in the Southern African Development Community on renewable energy and regional electricity-market development. Nduna said Nyachowe also brought extensive corporate governance experience from serving on boards across the banking, insurance, asset-management, higher-education and regulatory sectors. The permanent appointment comes at a critical point for ZESA as government attempts to overhaul the structure of the power sector and improve reliability. In May, Nyachowe told Parliament's Public Accounts Committee that ZESA was targeting an additional 1 365 megawatts of generation capacity by the end of 2026 as part of efforts to eliminate load-shedding. He said 635MW was under construction, while a further 730MW was at the financial-closure stage. ZESA has also said improved electricity generation, tighter cost controls and reduced load-shedding were contributing to an improvement in its financial position. In May, Nyachowe said the utility was on course to record a net profit for the 2025 financial year. The government has said the new vertically integrated structure should reduce fragmentation and improve coordination in generation dispatch, outage management, maintenance planning, load forecasting and investment decisions. The restructuring also involves rationalising excess positions through retirement and retrenchment, with Cabinet saying the process would be funded from internally mobilised resources. Nyachowe's appointment therefore places him at the centre of one of the country's most consequential public-sector reforms, with the utility under pressure to maintain improved power supplies while expanding generation and modernising its transmission and distribution networks. “The Board, Management and Staff extend heartfelt congratulations to Eng. Nyachowe on his appointment and express full confidence in his leadership,” Nduna said. He said Nyachowe would be responsible for driving the strategic and operational transformation of the newly integrated ZESA (Private) Limited. Cletus Nyachowe ZESA CEO

By Valerie Mpundu A Cairo court has sentenced Egyptian television presenter Sarah Khalifa and 11 other defendants to death by hanging over their alleged involvement in a major drug trafficking operation, according to state-run newspaper al-Ahram. The Cairo Criminal Court handed down the death penalty on Saturday while imposing a fine of 500,000 Egyptian pounds (approximately $9,800) on each convicted individual. Major Synthetic Drug Bust According to prosecutors, security forces confiscated 750 kilograms of synthetic drugs and precursor manufacturing materials from a residential property that was allegedly utilized as an illegal storage and processing facility. The prosecution's case was built on extensive evidence, including: Formal testimony from 20 witnesses Intercepted telephone records Supporting photographic and video surveillance evidence Court documents formally accused the 12 individuals of establishing and operating an organized criminal enterprise focused on large-scale narcotics distribution. Capital Punishment Trends in Egypt The high-profile ruling highlights Egypt's continued reliance on capital punishment, maintaining one of the highest rates of judicial executions globally. Data from human rights organization Amnesty International indicates that Egyptian courts issued 492 death sentences in 2025 alone, with at least 23 executions officially carried out during that same period. Sarah Khalifa death sentence Egypt

The government has ordered vendors operating from undesignated sites to relocate by September 9. By Percy Nhara | Harare Government has defended its decision to remove vendors operating from undesignated sites, arguing that informal trading must be balanced with public health, safety and the need to keep urban centres orderly. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Nick Mangwana said street trading remained an important source of income but could not be allowed to operate without regulation. “The debate over vendor relocation is a complex urban challenge,” Mangwana said in a post on X on Sunday. He said designated vending areas equipped with basic infrastructure such as ablution facilities and waste-management systems offered a possible compromise between protecting livelihoods and maintaining clean and accessible public spaces. Mangwana also argued that vendors should not operate directly outside supermarkets and other formal businesses because this could create unfair competition and obstruct access to commercial premises. “The goal is not exclusion but creating sustainable infrastructure that supports commerce while maintaining clean, accessible public spaces for all,” he said. His comments come days before a government deadline requiring vendors operating from unauthorised locations in Harare and the wider metropolitan province to relocate. Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe announced on September 2 that vendors operating outside areas approved by local authorities had until Wednesday, September 9, to vacate. Government has described the planned enforcement as a “comprehensive, zero-tolerance clean-up operation”. Garwe said illegal vending structures, stalls and sites would be dismantled, while municipal police would remain deployed to prevent traders from returning to cleared areas. The operation is expected to begin in Harare before being extended to other cities and towns. Authorities say the crackdown is intended to address congestion, blocked pedestrian pathways, sanitation problems and disruption of formal businesses. The government has also directed local authorities to register compliant informal traders and facilitate their placement in designated vending structures. However, questions remain over whether there are enough suitable trading spaces to accommodate vendors who will be affected by the deadline. The Vendors Initiative for Social and Economic Transformation (VISET) has urged authorities to provide viable alternatives before removing traders from existing locations. VISET executive director Samuel Wadzai said formalisation should not simply mean forcing informal traders off the streets without creating sustainable alternatives. The organisation said the crackdown should instead be implemented in line with the National Informal Economy Formalisation Strategy adopted by government this year, which places emphasis on inclusion, infrastructure, social protection and participation. ZimRights has also called for the September 9 deadline to be suspended, arguing that removing vendors without addressing the economic conditions driving informal trading would deepen poverty. The rights organisation called for dialogue with vendors, accessible marketplaces and safeguards against violence, arbitrary arrests and confiscation of goods during enforcement. The directive has also attracted criticism from opposition figures, including former Mt Pleasant MP Fadzayi Mahere, who has compared the planned operation to previous government crackdowns on informal settlements and businesses. Meanwhile, some Harare vendors have vowed to resist the order, saying street trading is their only viable source of income amid limited formal employment opportunities. The dispute has therefore placed the government’s twin objectives of restoring urban order and formalising the informal economy under scrutiny. With the September 9 deadline approaching, the key test will be whether authorities can clear unauthorised trading sites while providing realistic alternatives for thousands of people who depend on informal commerce for their livelihoods. Zimbabwe vendor crackdown

Hillcrest School in Mutare has approached the High Court seeking an urgent order to stop gold mining activities at Mt Sinai in Toronto, near the scenic Christmas Pass area. The school, represented by Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), wants Toronto Mines and other respondents to immediately halt mining and related activities, arguing that the operations are threatening the environment and disrupting learning at the school. The urgent application was filed by ZLHR lawyers Calexy Maunga (Jnr), Tatenda Sigauke and Dorothy Mutungura. According to the court papers, increased open-cast mining activities at Toronto are causing significant disruption to Hillcrest School’s operations and affecting its ability to provide a suitable learning environment. Hillcrest, which has operated for more than 41 years, is located near Christmas Pass, one of Mutare’s major gateways and an area known for its scenic landscape and environmentally sensitive surroundings. The school alleges that dust, noise, heavy machinery and other mining-related activities are affecting classes and the well-being of learners and staff. ZLHR said the case also raises broader concerns about environmental protection and the rights of communities living near mining operations. School Seeks Broad Mining Ban Hillcrest is asking the High Court to order Toronto Mines and four other respondents — Calvar House Investments (Private) Limited, Maxwell Chad, Rosa Villa Investments (Private) Limited and Golden Cube Investments (Private) Limited — to stop excavation and construction activities at Mt Sinai. The school is also seeking an order requiring the respondents to remove excavators, heavy machinery, processing equipment and other mining-related equipment from the site pending lawful authorisation of the operations. In addition, the school wants an interdict preventing the respondents, their employees, agents, contractors or anyone acting on their behalf from conducting mining-related activities at the site. The activities listed in the application include mining, excavation, crushing, processing, mineral recovery, heap leaching, further excavation, stockpiling of excavated material and construction or use of mining infrastructure. Licences and Environmental Approvals Hillcrest argues that mining activities should not continue unless all required statutory licences, permits, environmental approvals and other authorisations have been obtained from the relevant regulatory authorities. The application places the environmental and educational concerns at the centre of the dispute, with the school seeking judicial intervention to stop activities it says are already disrupting its operations. The case comes amid growing concerns over the impact of mining activities on communities and environmentally sensitive areas across Zimbabwe. The High Court is now being asked to determine whether the mining operations at Mt Sinai should be halted pending compliance with the country's regulatory requirements. Hillcrest School Toronto mine

More than 200 people occupying residential stands at Sadza Growth Point have been ordered to leave after the Government said the land was intended for just 39 approved beneficiaries. More than 200 people have illegally occupied residential stands at Sadza Growth Point that were earmarked for just 39 beneficiaries, prompting the Government to order their removal. Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe, who visited Chikomba District on Friday, said the Government would not regularise the illegal occupation as authorities step up efforts to bring land administration under control. Garwe said the affected people had occupied the stands outside the approved allocation process and would have to vacate the land. Only 39 beneficiaries were originally supposed to receive the residential stands, but the number of occupants has since risen to more than 200. The dispute has also renewed concerns over informal land allocations, commonly referred to as “Sabhuku deals”, in which land is allegedly allocated outside established council and Government procedures. Garwe warned traditional leaders against participating in such arrangements, saying those found involved in illegal land allocations could lose their positions. He said the Government had the authority to replace village heads who acted outside the law and reminded traditional leaders that their powers must be exercised within the Constitution and other relevant legislation. Wetlands, Grazing Areas Under Threat The Sadza dispute is part of a wider challenge facing authorities as illegal settlements spread into areas not designated for residential development. Traditional leaders told Garwe that wetlands and grazing areas were also under pressure from illegal occupation. Chief Neshangwe said people should not be allowed to establish homes in wetlands or grazing areas, while emphasising the need for traditional leaders and councils to work together to prevent unplanned settlements. Several village heads supported the Government's position. Sabhuku Makuvaza called for people involved in illegal land transactions to face arrest, while Sabhuku Munondo backed the removal of people who had occupied land unlawfully. Gilstone Model for Illegal Settlement Crackdown Garwe cited Gilstone as an example of the Government's approach to illegal settlements. More than 5 000 illegal settlers were removed from the area, paving the way for planned development. The minister said Sadza and other growth points should similarly pursue orderly development rather than allowing settlements to expand without the necessary approvals. He also directed councils to tackle informal trading by establishing designated vending areas. The directive forms part of a broader Government effort to restore order in residential and commercial spaces and ensure that land is allocated and developed through approved planning processes. More than 200 people occupying residential stands illegally at Sadza Growth Point face removal after the Government rejected plans to regularise the settlement. Sadza illegal settlers

Alick Macheso has dismissed reports that he blocked businessman Wicknell Chivayo from giving vehicles to members of Orchestra Mberikwazvo, saying the claims are false. The sungura star says band members are still expecting their Toyota Aquas from Japan. Sungura star Alick Macheso has denied claims that he stopped businessman Wicknell Chivayo from giving vehicles to members of his Orchestra Mberikwazvo band. Macheso said reports circulating on social media suggesting he had blocked the gifts were false and urged the public not to associate the band with information that did not come from its official representatives. “The stories circulating are not true. Please do not involve or associate our brand with information that is not true or that never came from us,” Macheso said. The claims emerged after reports suggested Macheso was concerned that giving vehicles to some band members while leaving others without cars could create jealousy and tensions within the group. Macheso, however, said band members were still expecting to receive the vehicles. He said the latest batch of Toyota Aqua vehicles was being imported from Japan and that the musicians had been told they would collect them sometime next week. The singer also thanked Chivayo for his continued support, describing the businessman as a consistent benefactor who has honoured his commitments to the band. The clarification comes amid growing public interest in Chivayo's support for local musicians, with his vehicle donations becoming a recurring topic on social media. Macheso's remarks appear intended to put to rest speculation about disagreements within Orchestra Mberikwazvo over the distribution of the vehicles. The band remains one of Zimbabwe's most prominent sungura acts, with Macheso continuing to command a large following locally and among Zimbabweans abroad. Alick Macheso Chivayo cars

By Valerie Mpundu CHITUNGWIZA — Tinodashe "Tintin" Mangenda, 22, is carrying forward his family's artistic heritage, one stone at a time. Working from the vibrant creative hub of Chitungwiza, the young sculptor is quietly building a distinct brand within Zimbabwe's renowned stone art movement. Since taking up the chisel in 2023, Mangenda notes that public response to his work has been overwhelmingly positive. His entry into stone carving was inspired by his father, veteran artist Farai Mangenda, who has been the primary driving force behind his creative development. Driven by a deep respect for his cultural heritage, Tintin remains committed to expanding the artistic foundation laid by his mentor. “I had always been fascinated by art. I grew up watching my dad, and that’s where my interest was piqued,” Tintin said. “From those early days of just admiring, I decided to try my own hand. Three years later, here I am.” Capturing the Female Form and Specialized Mediums A walk through Tintin's current portfolio reveals a clear, intentional theme: the vast majority of his sculptures depict female figures. “Well, I believe in giving my customers what they want,” he explained. “My clients mostly request female pieces, hence most of my stones are women.” For Tintin, the defining highlight of his journey has been mastering techniques and learning how to listen to the natural contours of the stone, “With the passing of each day, I have realized I am mastering my craft and making it better. That has given me a sense of satisfaction, yet I still yearn for more in terms of how to explore and navigate.” His pricing model is directly tied to the complexity of the raw material, fine detail, and labor hours required, “It’s all to do with the kind of stone I use. When I use hard stone, there’s a specific type of detail I put in for finesse, including jewelry and hairstyles. That, alongside the time invested in such a piece, determines the pricing.” Among the diverse mineral rocks available across Zimbabwe, Tintin has established a preferred specialty medium, “Having worked with different stones, I fancy butter jade as my specialty stone. It gives that nice, smooth, fine-detailed finish to my work.” Educating the Public on Visual Arts Despite his personal milestones, Tintin points out that more effort is required to develop and expand the local visual arts market: “Art is diverse, and I believe there is still a need for society to be educated on visual arts so they have a deeper understanding of what it entails.” As part of a new generation of Zimbabwean sculptors, he sees his role as bridging traditional stone heritage with contemporary storytelling: “People need to look at a piece and see more than just stone. They should be able to tell a story and feel the artist’s emotions during the time he put that piece together.” For Tintin, every strike of the mallet is about more than shaping raw rock it is about preserving a Zimbabwean narrative and ensuring future generations have a foundation to build upon. Tinodashe Mangenda, stone sculptor, Zimbabwe

Harare Derby Drama: Dynamos and CAPS United Battle to 1-1 Stalemate By Valerie Mpundu The Harare Derby ended in a stalemate, but delivered everything else: nostalgia, controversy, and late drama as Dynamos and CAPS United played out a pulse-pounding 1-1 draw. The afternoon began with a striking nod to club history. Dynamos’ choice of kit offered a direct tap into memory lane, evoking the nostalgia of the 1970s when they donned an all-red strip under British American Tobacco sponsorship. DeMbare wore red instead of their traditional blue, as their standard white away kit would have clashed with Makepekepe’s heavy green-and-white stripes. Early Friction and Tactical Battles The opening 20 minutes were tight and contested, with the referee awarding a string of decisions to Dynamos—much to the vocal disappointment of the green half of the stadium. Dynamos looked threatening early on, controlling the tempo and territorial advantage. Tension briefly spilled into the stands when a supporter in the CAPS United section was manhandled by rival fans after sitting in the wrong terrace. CAPS United forward Wadi showcased brilliant footwork just before the halftime break but failed to find the target. Frustration continued to grow among the Makepekepe faithful, with supporters calling for Hachiro to be substituted. Despite dominating the greater share of the first period, DeMbare went into the break without breaking the deadlock. Second-Half Breakthrough and Rapid Response The second half initially followed the same script. Dynamos maintained shape and possession, keeping CAPS United firmly on the defensive. The long-awaited breakthrough finally came when Wisdom Mtasa found the back of the net for DeMbare, sending the iconic Vietnam End into absolute eruption. However, the jubilation was short-lived. Before Dynamos could settle into their lead, CAPS United answered back almost immediately through Obriel Chirinda, silencing the Vietnam End and instantly restoring high-wire tension to the encounter. Reinvigorated by the equalizer, Makepekepe grew in confidence and launched a sustained offensive, looking like the side most likely to snatch a late winner. In one of the lighter moments of the afternoon, former Dynamos forward Rodrick Mutuma was spotted sitting in the CAPS United terrace, drawing good-natured banter and laughs from the Green Machine crowd. Ultimately, neither side could find a decisive second goal. It ended as a derby of moments rather than a derby of winners, a memorable showcase for the purists, an entertaining draw for neutrals, and a match that guarantees plenty of debate on the journey home. Harare Derby Dynamos vs CAPS United

By Valerie Mpundu Zimbabwean Afro-jazz band Kashe Ngoma, fronted by Agga Nyabinde, has recorded an East African remix of their fan-favorite single "Kushanda." The track features Kenyan Afro-pop artist Ima Music and Ugandan multi-instrumentalist Aliddeki Brian, and will be included on Kashe Ngoma's upcoming album Toenda Mberi. The cross-border collaboration was sparked at the recent Music Imbizo Festival in Durban, South Africa, where Kashe Ngoma performed as the sole Zimbabwean act among 21 international showcases. “We were drawn to each other’s rhythm and cohesion,” said Agga Nyabinde. “We went straight into the studio at the festival, and that’s how the remix was born. Zimbabwe, Uganda, and Kenya in one song—that’s the Africa we want to build.” A Song of Hope and Resilience Kenyan Afro-pop and Afro-R&B artist Ima Music brought Kiswahili lyrics and a message of endurance to the track. A singer, songwriter, fine artist, and practicing lawyer who began her musical career in 2017, Ima described the recording session as divinely timed. “Agga called me for rehearsal on day two. It was sudden and impromptu, but I knew this was bigger than me,” she said. “As Africans, we carry hope. We show up even when the days are hard. We build, we create, we thrive. That’s what this song is about.” Ima chose to perform in pure Kiswahili to connect with listeners across the continent: “It’s African, it’s ours, and it connects straight to the soul. I believe Africans will resonate with this because we are hardworking people who keep pushing for a better tomorrow.” For Ima, the gathering in Durban went beyond a standard performance showcase. “It opened me to African thought and systems. I learned that culture is an infrastructure. When Africans come together, we become a force to reckon with. Our sound is distinct, our story is powerful.” "Music Travels Across Borders" Ugandan recording artist, educator, and traditional instrumentalist Aliddeki Brian contributed a Luganda verse alongside indigenous instruments. “I used Luganda and played the akogo [thumb piano] from Eastern Uganda and the traditional flute that cuts across Ugandan culture,” he explained. “You don’t need one dominant language for people to connect. The rhythm, emotion, and story travel.” For Aliddeki, the collaboration highlighted sustainable models for African creative industries: “Touring is not just about flying to perform. It’s about building relationships, sharing knowledge, and creating systems that let African work move across borders.” The "Kushanda" remix is currently being finalized at Playhouse Studios in Durban and is scheduled for release later this year. Kashe Ngoma Kushanda remix

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has urged parents and guardians to pay approved school fees and levies before schools reopen on Tuesday, September 8, saying timely payments are essential for the smooth running of schools. In a statement issued on September 3 ahead of the start of the third term, the Ministry said parents and guardians remain responsible for settling approved fees and levies. “The Ministry appeals to parents and guardians to pay approved school fees and levies on or before the opening of schools to ensure the smooth running of school operations and the provision of essential educational services,” the Ministry said. “The obligation to pay approved fees and levies remains with parents and guardians.” The Ministry said payments must comply with Zimbabwe’s fiscal and monetary laws and regulations. The appeal comes against the backdrop of growing arrears under the Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM), with Government recently revealing that outstanding payments have risen to more than US$292 million. Deputy Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Mercy Dinha told Parliament that BEAM arrears had accumulated since 2023 because of limited fiscal space. BEAM supports vulnerable children by covering approved education-related costs, including school fees and levies, at participating schools. Schools warned over uniforms and stationery The Ministry also reminded parents and guardians that they are free to purchase school uniforms and stationery from suppliers of their choice, provided the items meet the specifications set by individual schools. It warned school heads and responsible authorities against making it compulsory for parents to purchase uniforms and stationery directly from their schools. “Head of Schools and Responsible Authorities (whether Government or Non-Government) are therefore warned to abide by this directive and desist from making it mandatory for parents to purchase school uniforms and stationery exclusively at their schools,” the Ministry said. The directive applies to both Government and non-Government schools. The Ministry's position means schools can specify requirements for uniforms and learning materials, but parents should not be restricted to purchasing those items from the school itself. Third term begins September 8 The third term is one of the most important periods on Zimbabwe’s school calendar, particularly for learners sitting public examinations. Grade 7, Form 4 and Form 6 candidates will write their final public examinations during the term. The Ministry’s call for parents to settle fees comes as schools prepare for the new term and seek to maintain essential operations, while the Government continues to grapple with outstanding BEAM obligations. Parents and guardians have therefore been urged to meet their approved financial obligations before the opening of schools, while schools have been reminded to comply with regulations governing the purchase of uniforms and stationery. Zimbabwe school fees 2026

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has warned of strong winds across Zimbabwe from Friday evening through Monday, with thunderstorms, lightning and rain expected in some areas. In an advisory issued jointly with the Department of Civil Protection on Friday, September 4, the MSD said the unsettled conditions would persist from September 4 to 7. The warning covers all provinces, including Matabeleland South, Matabeleland North, Bulawayo Metropolitan, Midlands, Manicaland, Masvingo, Harare Metropolitan and the Mashonaland provinces. The weather shift is being driven by cool, moist south-easterly winds interacting with a mid-level atmospheric system, according to the MSD. “Beginning Friday, 04 September through Monday, 07 September 2026, weather conditions across Zimbabwe are expected to shift as cool, moist south-easterly winds interact with a mid-level atmospheric system,” the department said. Thunderstorms and rain expected Strong winds are expected to affect most parts of the country from Friday evening. The MSD said there is also a risk of lightning in Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South and Bulawayo Metropolitan. Matabeleland North and the Mashonaland provinces are expected to experience thunderstorms, lightning and rain on Friday and Saturday. Cloudy and cold conditions are expected on Saturday, with light rain or drizzle possible in areas including Chipinge, Chiredzi, Chimanimani and Nyanga. The department warned that strong winds could damage crops, uproot trees and plants, and damage structures, as well as affect rigging and sails. Farmers urged to protect crops and livestock Farmers have been warned that rainfall during the grain-filling and maturity stages can affect grain quality. High moisture levels can also increase the risk of fungal diseases, potentially affecting crops nearing harvest. The MSD advised farmers to use row covers or windbreaks where possible to protect crops from strong winds. Livestock should also be provided with adequate shelter, bedding and sufficient feed during the cold and windy conditions. Public urged to take precautions Households have been advised to inspect and repair rooftops, secure loose objects and trim branches that could fall during strong winds. The public has also been urged to avoid sailing during storms and postpone journeys where possible when conditions become hazardous. The MSD and Civil Protection authorities said members of the public, particularly farmers and vulnerable groups, should take precautions against strong winds and lightning. “Strong winds will affect most areas from Friday evening, with a risk of lightning in Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South, and Bulawayo Metropolitan,” the MSD said. The department urged residents to remain alert to further weather updates as the system moves across the country. Zimbabwe strong winds warning The MSD has warned of strong winds across Zimbabwe from Friday evening to Monday, with thunderstorms, lightning and rain expected in some areas.

A Zimbabwean man based in Durban, South Africa, has taken his late girlfriend’s family before Chief Mutasa’s community court, demanding US$11,000 in compensation after they allegedly took back the son he had raised and educated for several years. Tonderai Nyambudzi told the court that he had spent years paying school fees and providing for the boy, believing he was securing his biological son’s future, only for the child to later be reclaimed by his maternal relatives on customary grounds. Nyambudzi said the dispute began when his girlfriend became pregnant while he was preparing to formalise their relationship through customary marriage. “While I was paying bride price, a spirit manifested through one of her relatives and declared that she was not supposed to get married,” Nyambudzi told the court. He said he was subsequently told that he could only take the child after the woman had given birth, forcing him to leave her at her family home during the pregnancy. The woman later died, leaving the child in the care of her relatives. Nyambudzi said that when he later sought custody of the boy, the family told him he had to pay ‘chiredzwa’, also known as ‘maredzwa’, before the child could be released to him. He said he paid R15,000, which was worth about US$800 at the time. The boy was then in Grade Four. After taking custody, Nyambudzi said he assumed responsibility for the child's education, upkeep and general welfare. However, he claims that years later the Machekanzombe family took the boy back, arguing that he did not belong to Nyambudzi but was connected to a family spirit. Nyambudzi told the court that the family’s position was based on a customary and spiritual claim involving an alleged historical killing within the Machekanzombe family. According to his account, the family claimed that the spirit of the deceased person had subsequently been symbolically married to the child's mother and that the boy therefore belonged to that spiritual lineage. The Machekanzombe family subsequently refunded the approximately US$800 Nyambudzi had paid as maredzwa. Nyambudzi, however, argued that the refund did not cover the money he had spent raising and educating the child over the years. He is now seeking US$11,000 in compensation. Family disputes his account The Machekanzombe family disputed Nyambudzi’s version of events. Family representative Danai Machekanzombe told the court that the dispute had already been dealt with by Chief Mutasa earlier this year. He said Nyambudzi appeared before the traditional court in February and told it that he no longer wanted to keep the child. “His position before this court was clear. He said he no longer wanted the child and that what he wanted was a refund of the money he had paid as ‘maredzwa’,” Machekanzombe said. He said the family sourced the money and refunded Nyambudzi in March. “We are therefore surprised that he has returned demanding US$11,000,” he said. Machekanzombe said the family then took the child back because they considered themselves responsible for his welfare. He rejected the compensation claim, arguing that Nyambudzi had voluntarily surrendered the child and had only sought reimbursement of the maredzwa payment. Chief Mutasa refers financial claim After hearing both sides, Chief Mutasa said Nyambudzi’s financial claim would first have to be properly verified. The traditional leader advised him to approach the Small Claims Court, where evidence of the money allegedly spent on the child's education and upkeep could be independently examined. Chief Mutasa also suggested that, depending on the outcome, the child could potentially contribute towards settling any amount that might ultimately be found to be due, given that he was the beneficiary of the education and support. The dispute highlights the complex intersection between customary practices, family responsibility and formal legal remedies when questions of child custody and financial claims arise. The US$11,000 claim has not been established by the court, and the competing accounts remain disputed. Zimbabwe man demands US$11,000 compensation