Search Results

NANGO has resumed full operations and outlined a 2026 agenda focused on regulatory engagement, capacity building and sector resilience as Zimbabwe’s civil society faces tighter laws, funding pressures and rising social needs ( image source ) HARARE — The National Association of Non-governmental Organisations (NANGO) has resumed full operations and unveiled a strategic agenda for 2026 as Zimbabwe’s civil society sector navigates a tightening regulatory and funding environment. In a welcome message, executive director Ernest Nyimai reaffirmed NANGO’s role in coordinating, representing and strengthening non-governmental organisations amid mounting legal and financial pressures. Nyimai said the sector faces a challenging year shaped by the partial implementation of the Private Voluntary Organisations (PVO) Amendment Act, unresolved regulatory instruments and a backlog of registration applications that have left many organisations in legal limbo. Key outstanding actions include the gazetting of regulations, reconstitution of the PVO Board and establishment of a registrar’s office — steps Nyimai said are essential to restore clarity and predictability for NGOs. Beyond regulatory uncertainty, NANGO warned of shrinking development financing and donor realignments that have reduced available resources even as social needs intensify. Zimbabwe continues to grapple with high unemployment, rising substance abuse, worsening mental health and deepening poverty, increasing demand for civil society interventions at a time when funding is constrained. Nyimai said these realities underscore the importance of sustained and constructive engagement with regulators, alongside practical compliance guidance and strengthened sector-wide coordination. ( image source ) To bolster resilience, NANGO announced a slate of flagship initiatives for 2026. These include the third Civil Society Organisations Symposium to mark World NGO Day, a dedicated CSO Capacity Development Programme, regional NGO expos and the 16th Annual NGO Directors’ Summer Retreat. The association will also continue its “Talk to Your Regulator” sessions and compliance clinics to help members navigate evolving legal requirements. Nyimai emphasised the need for stronger partnerships and domestic resource mobilisation to reduce dependence on external donors. He urged NGOs to innovate, collaborate and pursue local funding streams while maintaining accountability and transparency. He said civil society actors are called not only to adapt, but to innovate, collaborate and collectively safeguard civic space. Civil society leaders welcomed NANGO’s renewed focus but cautioned that success will depend on constructive engagement with government, donor flexibility and practical support for smaller organisations struggling to meet compliance costs. Analysts say NANGO’s agenda — combining advocacy, capacity building and regulatory dialogue — aims to stabilise the sector and preserve its ability to deliver essential services during a period of heightened uncertainty. As NANGO moves forward, its capacity to convene stakeholders and broker solutions will be tested. For many NGOs, the association’s role as a coordinator and advocate remains vital to ensuring that civil society can continue to respond to Zimbabwe’s pressing social and development challenges.

Government has given Beitbridge Municipality 90 days to resolve chronic flooding and service delivery problems in Dulivhadzimu Township, as authorities move to avert further damage during the rainy season ( image source ) BEITBRIDGE — Government has given Beitbridge Municipality a 90-day ultimatum to address persistent flooding, poor roads and service delivery challenges in Dulivhadzimu Township, one of the town’s most flood-prone areas. The directive was issued yesterday by the Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, during a tour of the affected areas. Minister Nguluvhe was accompanied by senior Government officials, members of the Civil Protection Committee and Beitbridge Town Clerk Loud Ramakgapola. Dulivhadzimu residents, particularly those living near the old long-distance bus terminus, business centre, police base, hostels, flea market and stadium, have endured years of recurring flash floods during the rainy season. “The issue of flash floods, bad roads and poor service delivery should be put to rest,” said Minister Nguluvhe. “We need teamwork and wide consultation to find a lasting solution. People cannot continue living in fear every time it rains.” He stressed the need for collaboration between central Government, local authorities and the private sector, with emphasis on drainage upgrades, infrastructure planning and improved service delivery. ( image source ) In response, the municipality has relocated the long-distance bus terminus to higher ground, with civil works now underway after a private contractor was dismissed for poor performance. Mr Ramakgapola said the council had issued a tender for a feasibility study to guide urban renewal in Dulivhadzimu and had set aside ZWG3 million for drainage improvements and desilting works. He added that the council is seeking Government approval for direct procurement to fast-track urgent interventions. Chairperson of the Civil Protection Committee, Mrs Sikhangzile Mafu, said authorities remain on high alert as the rainy season continues. She noted that 23 houses have collapsed in rural Beitbridge due to moisture, although no fatalities have been recorded. Evacuation centres, mainly schools and churches, have been identified in flood-prone wards.

A total of 2 123 youths were trained under the Youth Service in Zimbabwe programme in 2025 as Government expands skills development, civic education and employability pathways for young people nationwide ( image source ) HARARE — A total of 2 123 youths were trained under the Youth Service in Zimbabwe (YSZ) programme in 2025 as Government intensifies efforts to equip young people with practical skills, discipline and civic values to enhance employability and participation in national development. In a statement, the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training said the programme, which was reintroduced in 2021 and revised in 2022, continues to attract youths from across the country and is now open for new applications. Following the official launch of the revised programme by President Emmerson Mnangagwa on May 24, 2024, training commenced at Dadaya and Vumba Youth Service Training Centres in the Midlands and Manicaland provinces. The two centres enrolled 1 156 youths drawn from all provinces. In 2025, Dadaya and Vumba, together with Guyu Youth Service Training Centre in Matabeleland South, trained a combined total of 2 123 youths. The programme targets young people aged between 18 and 35, including persons with disabilities, and runs for six months. It is divided into three months of national orientation and three months of community attachment. Training covers national history, civic education, entrepreneurship, disaster management, career guidance, drug and substance abuse awareness, as well as national economic and youth policies. ( image source ) Cabinet has elevated the status of the Youth Service in Zimbabwe certificate, directing that it be a prerequisite for admission into State higher and tertiary institutions and for appointment into the public service, State enterprises and parastatals. In April 2025, Cabinet further instructed security sector ministries and agencies to prioritise suitably qualified YSZ graduates during recruitment. The ministry said the programme promotes discipline, integrity, resilience and Ubuntu values, while contributing to reduced delinquency and healthier lifestyles among youths. Graduates have previously supported national disaster response efforts during Cyclone Eline and Cyclone Idai and have also provided voluntary service at major State and community events.

ZIMURA’s appointment of Alexio “Goodchild” Gwenzi as board chair raises questions about reform, loyalty and governance as allegations of rot, capture and royalty injustice continue to haunt Zimbabwe’s music rights body ( image source ) The house of music is on fire, and once again the neighbours are arguing about curtains. As Zimbabwe’s music sector digests explosive allegations from a breakaway group of ZIMURA board members, the Zimbabwe Music Rights Association has responded with a move that feels less like reform and more like late-night television: appointing Alexio “Goodchild” Gwenzi as its new Board Chairperson. If this feels familiar, it’s because it is. This was not a mass-membership uprising or a cathartic democratic reset. Gwenzi’s elevation comes through the same internal processes that the reformist faction says are constitutionally compromised and are now being challenged in court. In other words, while the house shakes, the furniture has simply been rearranged. Loyalty Pays? Gwenzi is no stranger to the front line. As former Director of Information and Publicity, he has been the most visible public defender of the current secretariat, including Polisile Ncube-Chimhini, whose leadership role and legal standing have been questioned in court proceedings and public statements by the breakaway board. For months, Gwenzi has toured radio and television studios — often on familiar turf — arguing that all is well inside ZIMURA. Now he sits at the head of the table. In the language of late-night satire, the question almost writes itself: is this a fresh start, or a gold star for services rendered in the spin department? ZIMURA insists continuity equals stability. Critics insist continuity equals capture. The courts, ultimately, will decide the law. For now, the optics are doing no one any favours. The Curious Silence Equally striking is the selective volume of the mainstream media. The appointment of a new chair made headlines. The detailed allegations aired by breakaway board members — touching on governance failures, conflicts of interest, and royalty distribution — largely did not. Is this editorial caution, institutional comfort, or simply good old-fashioned access journalism? Gwenzi’s long-standing relationships in public broadcasting and print media have prompted uncomfortable questions about whether the watchdogs are asleep or simply house-trained. Meanwhile, musicians continue to ask why, in a system that collects millions over time, even top-tier artists reportedly receive payouts that barely cover a decent microphone. Where Are the Heavyweights? Then there is the silence from the industry’s giants. Names like Alick Macheso, Jah Prayzah, and Winky D hover over every royalty conversation, yet remain conspicuously absent from this one. Are they insulated by endorsements and parallel income streams? Are they negotiating privately? Or is this a classic Animal Farm moment, where those doing just fine see little incentive to rock a boat that mostly throws smaller artists overboard? No accusations are made here. Just questions. Loud ones. The Crime of Being Poor Spare a thought for First Farai. Being clowned in the middle of this mess reminds us of the old adage: to be poor is a crime. While the board fights over office sales and commissions, the “elder” is treated like a punchline, caught in a system that values the “incapacitation grant” over actual, fair royalty distribution. And Honourable Dingimuzi Phuti — a man of the cloth and a deputy minister — how does he keep his robes clean while being dragged into a board accused of “breaking ranks” and “selling music for commission”? Same Circus, New Ringmaster ZIMURA says the new chair signals order. Critics see a continuation of a system under fire. The truth will be settled not by press statements, but by audits, court rulings, and whether musicians finally see meaningful change in their pockets. Until then, the circus continues. New ringmaster, same tent. The animals are watching. .

Matabeleland South Minister Albert Nguluvhe has warned Beitbridge Municipality that he will recommend a commission if chronic flooding and stalled infrastructure problems are not resolved within three months ( image source ) BEITBRIDGE — Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs Albert Nguluvhe has issued a stern ultimatum to the Municipality of Beitbridge, warning that he will recommend the appointment of a commission to run the town if local authorities fail to provide lasting solutions to chronic flooding and stalled infrastructure projects. Nguluvhe’s visit followed extensive tours of low-lying areas where poor drainage and dilapidated facilities have left residents exposed to water damage and heightened health risks. During the inspection, the minister ordered the municipality to complete long-delayed works, including the Dulivhadzimu Bus Terminus, and to ensure running water and adequate sanitation at the fresh produce market used daily by hundreds of traders and customers. He warned that poor hygiene conditions and persistent flooding could trigger a cholera outbreak if not urgently addressed. Nguluvhe gave the council a three-month deadline to resolve the most pressing problems and instructed officials to outsource engineering expertise where internal capacity is lacking. “We cannot keep sitting and discussing this forever. A solution must be found, and we must provide that solution ourselves. No one will do it for us. I am giving you three months to fix this,” he said. ( image source ) The minister also criticised municipal leadership for what he described as misplaced priorities, urging the reallocation of resources from salaries toward service delivery. He questioned the management of rental income from municipal flats and revenue generated from bus parking fees, suggesting that funds were not being channelled into maintenance or capital development. “You are collecting rent from those flats without improving them in any way. You take the money, and we do not know where it goes,” he said, noting that bus parking fees alone generate significant daily income. Nguluvhe singled out several council officials for reprimand and directed the immediate desilting of blocked drainage channels. Ward 4 councillor Emmanuel Takutaku told the minister that he had repeatedly requested a backhoe to clear a clogged channel responsible for recurrent flooding, but was informed that equipment and even basic supplies such as welding rods were unavailable. Municipal town clerk Loud Ramakgapola acknowledged the council’s financial challenges and appealed for alternative solutions. He said the authority had mapped problem areas under an urban renewal programme and planned to relocate a police base that is regularly affected by flooding. Beitbridge’s vulnerability has been compounded by inadequate drainage infrastructure and years of deferred maintenance. Nguluvhe’s warning to recommend a commission underscores the seriousness of the crisis and the growing political pressure on local authorities to act decisively. He urged transparency, accountability and the immediate mobilisation of resources to protect residents and traders. With a three-month deadline now in place, the municipality faces a critical test: deliver tangible improvements or risk external intervention to restore basic services and public confidence.

Illegal mining at Christmas Pass has resumed despite a government ban, with mudslides threatening Hillcrest College and nearby homes, prompting fears of a major disaster as rains continue ( image source ) PENHALONGA — Recent heavy rains have exposed continued illegal mining activities at the Christmas Pass Mountain Range, triggering renewed fears of a looming environmental and human disaster after mudslides began encroaching on Hillcrest College and the neighbouring Toronto residential area. Residents, school officials and civil society activists warn that unregulated excavation on the steep slopes has severely weakened the terrain, raising the risk of catastrophic erosion that could endanger lives, infrastructure and key public facilities if operations are not halted immediately. Government last year issued a directive suspending unauthorised mining at Christmas Pass in an effort to curb environmental degradation and address escalating health and safety concerns. Civil society groups, led by the Centre for Natural Resources Governance (CNRG), staged protests in 2025 that briefly stopped operations. However, recent field investigations by NewsDay, working with CNRG executive director Farai Maguwu, indicate that mining has quietly resumed. ( image source ) Sources say access to the site is tightly controlled during the day by security guards, but machinery and workers reportedly return at night. Witnesses and an on-site official told investigators that Chinese investors, together with local operators identified as Farai Chimonyo and a man known only as Chad, have been active in the area. Chimonyo is alleged to be the mine owner. The official warned that mudslides are already moving downslope toward the school and nearby residential blocks, with the risk escalating as rainfall continues. “We are seeing mudslides going into the school and the Toronto residential area. If the rains continue, we are going to see a disaster,” the source said. Hillcrest College staff confirmed that the school has reported the matter to authorities. An anonymous staff member said the institution hears heavy machinery operating at night and fears that erosion could soon reach classrooms and other buildings. Once densely forested slopes now show extensive scarring, with exposed red soil, open trenches and deep gullies advancing toward telecommunications infrastructure above the campus. Mr Maguwu described the mining activities as criminal and urged immediate law enforcement intervention. “It is now up to law enforcement to track this Chad guy and his Chinese partners in crime so that they are brought to book because they have no right to profiteer and put the lives of other people at risk,” he said. He also appealed to government to protect residents, professionals and scholars from activities that are undermining the mountain’s structural integrity. Acting Manicaland police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka said police would investigate the allegations. Meanwhile, local leaders and environmental advocates are calling for the immediate closure of the site, emergency stabilisation of affected slopes, and a transparent probe into mining permits, ownership and any collusion that allowed operations to resume. With the rainy season ongoing, communities around Christmas Pass say swift and decisive action is critical to prevent loss of life and irreversible environmental damage.

A Harare woman has appeared in court charged with fraud after allegedly swindling a property buyer out of US$137,000 in a failed Marlborough property transaction ( image source ) HARARE — A 62-year-old Harare woman has appeared in court facing fraud charges after allegedly swindling a prospective home seeker out of US$137,000 in a failed property transaction. Virginia Tambudzai Maida appeared before Harare magistrate Mr Donald Ndirowei, where she was formally charged with fraud. She was granted bail of US$1,000 and ordered not to interfere with State witnesses. The court further instructed her to continue residing at her given address until the matter is finalised. The case was remanded to February 6, 2026. The complainant in the matter is The Mash Family Futures Trust, represented by Mr Tinashe Nigel Mashingaidze (32). The State is being represented by prosecutor Mr Oscar Madhume. According to the State, on July 17, 2025, Maida approached the complainant offering to sell a property located at Number 470A Marlborough Extension 3, Harare, held under Deed of Transfer 2259/99, for US$120,000, a figure reportedly below market value. The following day, during a meeting at the complainant’s lawyers’ offices, Maida allegedly misrepresented herself as the executrix dative of the late Steward Matsikira’s estate (DRH 2312/02). Prosecutors allege that Maida falsely claimed she had obtained consent from the estate’s beneficiaries to sell the property, despite not having authority from the Master of the High Court. Relying on these representations, the complainant paid the full purchase price in cash and received an affidavit and an acknowledgement of receipt from Maida. The transaction later collapsed after beneficiaries of the estate filed a High Court application (HCHF 4229/25) seeking to nullify the sale. On November 6, 2025, the High Court ruled in favour of the beneficiaries, officially invalidating the transaction. The State alleges that Maida concealed this ruling and continued to assure the complainant that the transfer process was ongoing. The complainant reportedly discovered the alleged fraud through a third party on December 7, 2025. When confronted, Maida allegedly became evasive. Further investigations revealed that she had provided false residential addresses on official documents. Police investigations suggest that Maida used the funds to settle an unrelated debt. Following a report filed on January 11, 2026, she was arrested. The total prejudice amounts to US$137,400, including ancillary charges, with nothing recovered to date.

Police in Chegutu have arrested two suspects linked to farm robberies, recovered a stolen pellet gun, and are hunting four others still at large as investigations continue ( image source ) CHEGUTU — Police in Chegutu have arrested two men believed to be central figures in a series of robberies that targeted farms across the district in early January. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the arrests on their X account, saying the suspects were linked to incidents at Maridadi Farm and Cigaro Farm between 1 and 15 January, where cash, cellphones and a pellet gun were stolen. The arrested men, Kudakwashe Matizandima (27) and Perfect Isaac (18), were taken into custody on 15 January after ZRP Chegutu detectives received information tying them to the spate of thefts. Police said the operation that led to the arrests also resulted in the recovery of the stolen pellet gun, a key piece of evidence in the investigations. According to investigators, the thefts followed a similar pattern, with perpetrators targeting isolated farm premises, taking advantage of limited night-time security and the absence of on-site guards. Farm owners reported that the intruders forced entry into outbuildings and workers’ quarters, making off with cash and mobile phones used by staff. The incidents have heightened anxiety among rural communities and farm workers, who say they feel increasingly vulnerable to opportunistic crime. ZRP spokespeople emphasised that the arrests were the result of targeted intelligence work and community cooperation. “On 15 January, police from ZRP Chegutu arrested the suspects after receiving information linking them to the robbery cases,” the force said. The statement urged residents and farm managers to continue sharing information with police and to improve security measures, including better lighting, alarm systems and coordinated neighbourhood watch efforts. Police also named four other suspects believed to be involved in the criminal ring, identified only as Terrence, King, Munyaradzi and Edson, who remain at large. Authorities said efforts to locate and arrest these individuals are ongoing and called on anyone with information about their whereabouts to come forward. Investigators warned that harbouring or assisting the fugitives would attract criminal liability. Farmers’ associations and local leaders have urged a sustained police presence in the district and faster response times to distress calls. They also called for a review of rural policing resources, arguing that limited patrols and understaffed stations embolden criminals. The arrests of Matizandima and Isaac provide a measure of reassurance, but community representatives said long-term solutions are needed to deter repeat offences and protect livelihoods. Police have opened formal robbery investigations and are preparing charges against the two suspects. As inquiries continue, the recovered pellet gun will be forensically examined and witness statements consolidated to strengthen the prosecution’s case. The outcome of the investigations will be closely watched by farm owners and rural communities across Chegutu, who hope the arrests mark the beginning of a wider crackdown on organised theft in the district.

A Harare man has appeared in court charged with fraud after allegedly impersonating a former ambassador and defrauding a resident of US$2,950 through an EcoCash scam ( image source ) HARARE — A 43-year-old man has appeared in court facing fraud charges after allegedly impersonating Zimbabwe’s former Ambassador to South Africa and swindling a Harare resident out of nearly US$3,000. The accused, Tinashe Munhuweyi, was remanded in custody to January 21 pending a bail application. Prosecutors told the court that the alleged scam unfolded in December 2025 and relied on deception and emotional manipulation. According to court papers, the complainant, Mr Webster Marechera, was contacted by a person claiming to be former ambassador David Hamadziripi, who said he urgently needed money to assist a son stranded in Victoria Falls with a broken-down vehicle. Believing the request to be genuine, Marechera transferred US$180 into an EcoCash account supplied by the caller. The alleged impersonation continued, with the accused later claiming that his mother was ill in Chiredzi and required urgent medical assistance. Prosecutors said Marechera sent a further US$2,770 in instalments, bringing the total amount lost to US$2,950. Suspicions arose after repeated requests for money and inconsistencies in the communications. Marechera subsequently reported the matter to police, prompting investigations that led to Munhuweyi’s arrest. The State alleges that the accused deliberately misrepresented his identity and that the funds were deposited into accounts under his control. ( image source ) The prosecution will argue that the impersonation and receipt of money constitute fraud under Zimbabwean law. Legal analysts note that the State must establish a clear link between the accused and the mobile money accounts used, as well as intent to deceive. The case highlights the growing prevalence of electronic and impersonation scams, with authorities urging the public to verify identities before sending money and to treat unsolicited requests for urgent financial assistance with caution. Mobile money operators and financial institutions have also been called upon to strengthen fraud detection and cooperate swiftly with law enforcement. Munhuweyi appeared before Harare magistrate Mrs Rufaro Panavanhu, with a bail hearing expected later this month. Police say investigations are ongoing to determine whether the accused acted alone or as part of a wider fraud network.

A Bulawayo man has appeared in court facing domestic violence and attempted murder charges after allegedly assaulting his wife and injuring their seven-month-old baby ( image source ) BULAWAYO — A 49-year-old man from Mpophoma suburb has appeared in court facing charges of physical abuse and attempted murder after allegedly assaulting his wife and injuring their seven-month-old baby during a violent domestic dispute. The accused, Simbarashe Sibanda, appeared before Western Commonage regional magistrate Mr Pasipanodya Maturure and was remanded in custody to January 21. Prosecutor Ms Christina Manyika told the court that the incident occurred on December 8, 2025, at around 4PM following a misunderstanding between Sibanda and his wife, Simelinkosi Sibanda (23), over an undisclosed domestic matter. The argument allegedly escalated into violence, with Sibanda punching his wife and causing bodily injuries. “After attacking his wife, the accused then turned his anger on their seven-month-old son, whom he struck on the forehead with a stone,” Ms Manyika said. The infant sustained a serious injury to the forehead, and both mother and child were rushed to hospital for medical examination and treatment. A police report was subsequently filed, leading to Sibanda’s arrest. The case comes amid growing concern over rising incidents of domestic violence in Zimbabwe. Law enforcement agencies and child welfare advocates have repeatedly warned about the devastating impact of domestic disputes on women and children, stressing the need for stronger community awareness and support systems. If convicted, Sibanda faces severe penalties under laws designed to protect families from abuse and safeguard children from harm. The matter has drawn attention from rights groups who continue to call for tougher enforcement of domestic violence legislation and improved victim support services.

Midlands Province has strengthened its position as a key livestock hub, with cattle numbers exceeding 980,000 and growing contributions from dairy, goats, poultry and climate-smart agriculture ( image source ) MIDLANDS — The province has consolidated its position as one of Zimbabwe’s leading livestock hubs, with its cattle population now exceeding 980,000, according to the latest Crops, Livestock and Fisheries Assessment Report (CLAFA 2) for the 2024/25 summer season. The report shows that Midlands contributes 17.1% of the national herd, estimated at 5,741,397 cattle, placing the province second only to Masvingo, which tops the list with just over one million cattle. Provincial Director for Economic Affairs and Investment in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Mr Kosheni Mtisi, said the figures highlight Midlands’ strategic importance in national food security, rural development and the agro-industrial economy. ( image source ) “The Midlands cattle population stands at 983,871, representing 17.1% of the national herd, placing the province second after Masvingo with 1,002,632 cattle,” he said. Beef cattle production remains the backbone of the rural economy, sustaining thousands of households through income generation, provision of draught power and cultural value. However, herd expansion faces challenges, including tick-borne diseases, poor genetic quality and degradation of grazing lands. Despite these setbacks, the dairy sector has recorded notable progress. Large-scale commercial dairy production is concentrated in Gweru, Kwekwe and Shurugwi, while smallholder initiatives are expanding in Gokwe South. The establishment of Mafuro Dairy and Kaguvi Smallholder Dairy has boosted milk output to about 24 million litres annually, accounting for 21% of national production. Goat production is also gaining momentum in drought-prone areas, with farmers adopting high-value breeds such as the Boer Goat and Kalahari Red. The poultry sector has experienced renewed growth, driven by the Presidential Poultry Programme, which has revitalised indigenous chicken farming after years of disease outbreaks. Midlands largely falls within Natural Regions III, IV and V, where erratic rainfall makes irrigation and livestock-based livelihoods critical. Government support under the Zimbabwe Agriculture Growth Programme has bolstered resilience, with initiatives such as the Presidential Pasture Production Scheme, goat and poultry pass-on programmes, and mechanisation support through the Belarus tractor facility. Wheat production has also risen, with hectarage surpassing targets in 2024 and 2025. Traditional grains such as finger millet have doubled productivity under climate-smart strategies. Mr Mtisi said these interventions demonstrate the Second Republic’s commitment to strengthening both crop and livestock sectors, improving rural incomes and positioning Midlands as a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s agricultural economy.

Breakaway ZIMURA board members accuse the organisation’s leadership of constitutional violations, self-dealing and exploitation of musicians, calling for audits, suspensions and urgent reform ( image source ) The atmosphere was tense and charged when breakaway ZIMURA board members finally faced the media on Monday. This was no routine briefing. It was a public reckoning after a week of turmoil that has shaken Zimbabwe’s music industry to its core. Seated before the cameras, Dereck Mpofu, flanked by fellow board members Gift Amuli and Joseph Garakara, spoke with the resolve of men who say they walked into a broken institution and refused to be complicit. “We came in hoping to reform,” Mpofu said flatly. “What we found was total constitutional collapse.” What followed was a forensic dismantling of ZIMURA’s leadership, triggered by an official notice issued on January 12 that attempted to justify the sale of the organisation’s Avondale properties. The “Article 41” Smokescreen At the centre of the dispute is the sale of ZIMURA’s Avondale flats at 80 Mendel Road, a property many musicians regard as sacred ground. For decades, it symbolised collective ownership built through years of low royalties and high hope. Last week, the entrenched administration defended the sale by invoking Article 41 of ZIMURA’s Articles of Association, claiming the flats were “dilapidated,” a “health hazard,” and that proceeds would fund a new commercial property. Mpofu dismissed that explanation as deliberate misdirection. “They hide behind Article 41 to sell our heritage without consultation,” he said. “If the building was so dilapidated, where did years of maintenance money go?” The answer, the breakaway board alleges, is self-dealing. They revealed that a sitting board member, Alexio Gwenzi, was employed by the estate agency that handled the transaction, meaning he stood to benefit professionally from a deal he voted to approve. “That is not governance,” Mpofu said. “That is liquidation of heritage for commission.” A Leadership Built on a Legal Lie ( image source ) The briefing took a darker turn when attention shifted to Polisile Ncube-Chimhini, referred to by the administration as Executive Director. Despite recent threats by ZIMURA to involve law enforcement over what it calls “defamatory claims,” the breakaway board stood by its allegations on record and with documentation. They confirmed that Ncube-Chimhini was convicted of fraud in 2025 for submitting fraudulent company documents. More critically, they cited a High Court ruling (Case HH 438-25) which states that the position of “Executive Director” does not exist in ZIMURA’s Articles of Association. “In plain language, ZIMURA is being run by a ghost,” Mpofu said. “Every contract, every transaction, every cent moved under that title is a legal nullity.” How the Board Was Captured The trio detailed what they described as a systematic campaign of board capture designed to silence dissent and protect the status quo. They alleged that the most recent chairperson election was manipulated through allowing a paid legal advisor to vote, violating quorum requirements, conducting online voting contrary to the constitution, and outsourcing the election to a private firm without a valid resolution. “This was not an election,” Mpofu said. “It was a scripted takeover.” Salaries Over Songs The sharpest reaction came when Mpofu outlined ZIMURA’s financial model. While some artists earn as little as US$5 per year, often paid years late, executives allegedly pay themselves based on projected revenue, taking a 30% administrative cut on money not yet collected. If broadcasters default, staff still get paid. Artists absorb the loss. “That’s why they refuse to leave,” Mpofu said. “The system feeds them first.” He added that Stanbic Bank has refused mortgage terms to ZIMURA, citing these practices, contradicting claims that the organisation is financially sound enough to acquire new property. The Human Cost The briefing ended with the issue that matters most to musicians. “We bury legends with groceries,” Mpofu said quietly. “After a lifetime of contribution, ZIMURA offers a coffin.” The breakaway board is demanding an immediate financial freeze, a forensic audit covering two decades, suspension of Ncube-Chimhini, an Extraordinary General Meeting within 21 days, and the appointment of a judicial manager. As the conference closed, one message was unmistakable: intimidation has failed. “The era of shadows is over,” Mpofu said. “The music belongs to us.”