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Check FAQAbout Tatenda
Tatenda Chitagu is a seasoned Zimbabwean freelance journalist with a decade of experience in the field. Based in the southern city of Masvingo, Chitagu has been a pivotal figure in the media landscape since the launch of The Newsday in 2010, contributing to its growth as the country's largest privately-owned daily paper. Chitagu's expertise also extends to writing for The Standard and The Independent, two sister weeklies of The Newsday. Prior to this, Chitagu honed journalistic skills as a news editor for The Masvingo Mirror, the biggest privately-owned regional paper, and contributed to an international radio station and a national news agency. Chitagu's educational background includes a Master of Science in Media and Society Studies from Midlands State University. This academic foundation has underpinned a career marked by a commitment to investigative reporting and giving a voice to marginalized communities. In 2015, Chitagu was honored with the Zimbabwe Human Rights Association (ZimRights) Best Human Rights Defender Journalist of the Year Award, recognizing the impactful coverage of the displacement of 18,000 people due to the construction of the Tokwe Mukosi dam. Further cementing Chitagu's reputation, the journalist is the recipient of the Haller Prize for Development Journalism award in Sub-Saharan Africa. Currently, Chitagu is broadening journalistic horizons by attending a fellowship program at the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom. Chitagu's work has illuminated a spectrum of critical issues, from public health challenges, such as the government's COVID-19 vaccination mandate, to the economic crisis and hyperinflation in Zimbabwe. Reporting on political violence, environmental conservation, and the empowerment of development through digital technology, Chitagu continues to shed light on the complexities of Zimbabwean society and the broader Sub-Saharan African region.
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Mliswa slams Mutsvangwa for 'political immaturity'
Norton MP Temba Mliswa has publicly criticized Zanu PF party spokesperson Chris Mutsvangwa, calling him 'politically immature' following Mutsvangwa's negative comments about Mliswa's private meeting with former Chivi South MP Killer Zivhu and exiled former Cabinet minister Saviour Kasukuwere in South Africa. Mutsvangwa had attacked Kasukuwere for his remarks on Zanu PF and President Emmerson Mnangagwa's leadership, and also disparaged Mliswa, referring to him as 'a lost soul rapidly losing burnish.' Mliswa defended his sister, Mary Mliswa-Chikoka, who was also targeted by Mutsvangwa, and condemned the attack as patriarchal and abusive. Mliswa explained that his meeting with Kasukuwere was to uncover the truth behind their expulsion from Zanu PF, and he vowed to reveal the truth, asserting his commitment to the nation's progress.
Mimosa spends US$75m on waste clean-up
Mimosa Mining Company (MMC), a platinum miner based in Zvishavane, Zimbabwe, is nearing completion of a new US$75 million tailings storage facility (TSF) with an accompanying water dam, designed to handle mine waste for the next 20 years. The project, which is 90% complete and set to be commissioned in April 2024, also includes a recreational park with wild game. MMC's general manager, Steve Ndiyamba, highlighted the company's commitment to environmental sustainability and community investment. MMC has contributed to health, education, and infrastructure in the local community, including interventions in several hospitals and support for educational institutions. The mine, operational since the 1920s, processes 2.8 million tonnes of ore annually, producing a concentrate of 10 different metals.
District lands officer implicated in farm dispute
Boaz Vurayayi, the Mwenezi district lands officer, has been implicated in a controversial farm dispute. He is accused of ordering the owner of Battlefields Safaris, Shelton Lucas, to leave the property to make way for Leonard Mutema, a local businessman with retail shops at Nyika Growth Point in Bikita district. Vurayayi allegedly informed Lucas' workers about the change in ownership during a meeting, which Lucas did not attend. Despite video evidence, Vurayayi denies being at Battlefields Safaris, and Mutema has also distanced himself from the situation, claiming ignorance and stating that he owns Valley Farm, acquired under land reform.
Lack of IDs, proof of residence disenfranchising potential voters: ERC
Solomon Bobosibunu, the programmes manager of the Elections Resource Centre (ERC), highlighted the disenfranchisement of potential voters in Zimbabwe who lack national identity cards and proof of residence, which are required to register to vote. This issue particularly affects squatters, vendors, and the youth. During the launch of an advocacy campaign in Masvingo, organized by the Vendors Initiative for Social and Economic Transformation (Viset), Bobosibunu advocated for less restrictive voter registration processes. He suggested that Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) officers or lawyers should commission those without proof of residence. The low number of registered voters is attributed to factors such as COVID-19 restrictions and the centralization of registration centers. Viset's executive director, Samuel Wadzai, emphasized the importance of including vendors in the electoral process and mentioned that Viset would provide shuttle services to facilitate their voting. The article also notes that a low percentage of youths are registered to vote despite making up a significant portion of the population.
Masvingo Residents Accuse Local Authority of Misusing Devolution Funds
Residents of Masvingo have accused their local authority of misusing devolution funds and failing to consult stakeholders on projects prioritization. The Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Local Government, led by Miriam Chikukwa, visited the city following a petition to Parliament by the residents. The city received $125 million for devolution, with some funds allocated to the construction of Rujeko Secondary School, Runyararo West Clinic, and the main sewage trunk. Residents, represented by Tracy Musakarukwa, expressed their concerns about the lack of consultation. Mayor Collins Maboke responded by promising future consultations and called for legislation to guide the use of devolution funds.
Mimosa spends US$75m on waste clean-up
Mimosa Mining Company (MMC), a platinum miner based in Zvishavane, Zimbabwe, is nearing completion of a new US$75 million tailings storage facility (TSF) with an accompanying water dam, designed to handle mine waste for the next 20 years. The project, which is 90% complete and set to be commissioned in April 2024, also includes a recreational park with wildlife. MMC's general manager, Steve Ndiyamba, highlighted the company's commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible waste disposal. MMC, which has been operating since the 1920s, produces a concentrate containing 10 metals and is involved in various community development projects, including health, education, and infrastructure, with significant investments in local hospitals, schools, and universities.
Robert Jnr endorses Mnangagwa in a bid to protect family interests
Robert Junior, the son of the late former President Robert Mugabe, has endorsed President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the ruling party Zanu PF, which is seen by analysts as a move to protect the Mugabe family's business interests and secure the future of his widow, Grace. Robert Jnr's appearance at a Zanu PF rally in Chitungwiza, where he expressed his support for the party, comes as a surprise given the history of animosity between Mnangagwa and the Mugabe family, especially after Mnangagwa ousted Mugabe in a 2017 coup. Analysts suggest that the Mugabe family is under pressure due to failing businesses and legal battles, prompting a need to align with the current government. The government also appears to be making efforts to be seen as continuing Mugabe's legacy, creating a win-win situation for both parties.
Mimosa spends US$75m on waste clean-up
Mimosa Mining Company (MMC), a platinum miner based in Zvishavane, Zimbabwe, is nearing the completion of a new US$75 million tailings storage facility (TSF) which includes a water dam. The project, which is 90% complete and set to be commissioned in April 2024, is part of MMC's strategic initiatives to enhance the sustainability of its mining operations and responsibly manage waste. The facility is designed to handle mine waste for the next 20 years and accommodate future expansions. MMC also aims to contribute to the local community by setting up a recreational park with wild game and investing in health, education, water, sanitation, and infrastructure projects. The company has a history of mining dating back to the 1920s and currently produces a concentrate containing 10 different metals.
Recycling offers economic reprieve in Zimbabwe, but environmentalists say it’s not enough
In Zimbabwe, amidst hyperinflation and economic crisis, recycling has become a lucrative business. Community-based organizations for recycling have grown significantly, now picking up 15% of the country's plastic waste. Nyemudzai Jakiti, a single mother, turned to collecting litter for income and now works at Stable Packaging, a recycling company. The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) reports a rise in recycling organizations and companies, which has helped reduce plastic waste pollution. However, environmentalists warn that recycling alone is not enough to address the global plastic waste problem. The EMA monitors recycling facilities to prevent pollution, and the government has taken steps to reduce plastic use. Despite these efforts, the challenge of managing plastic waste at its root remains significant.
Zimbabwean Government Fails to Uphold Children's Rights
The article by Tatenda Chitagu discusses the failure of the Zimbabwean government to provide a conducive environment for children's well-being, as noted by the Zimbabwe Human Rights Association (ZimRights). Despite constitutional provisions, children in Zimbabwe face numerous challenges, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. ZimRights highlights issues such as a high number of school dropouts, teenage pregnancies, statelessness due to lack of identity documentation, and a growing drug problem among children. The World Bank reports that poverty affects half of Zimbabwe's population, impacting children significantly. ZimRights urges the government to meet its obligations under the African Charter and improve children's lives by reducing poverty and providing quality health care and education. The article also references the Day of the African Child, which commemorates the 1976 Soweto uprising where black students protested for better education in South Africa.
Workers petition Zacc over GZU corruption
Workers at Great Zimbabwe University have submitted a petition to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission and the Higher and Tertiary Education minister, alleging corruption and nepotism within the university's staff management. The petition claims that over 50% of the staff are related to key figures such as the Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, and Bursar. Specific cases of unprocedural recruitment are cited, including individuals hired without proper qualifications or necessary procedures. The petition also mentions a staff rationalisation exercise that may unfairly target certain employees. The implicated parties, including the Vice-Chancellor and the Zacc spokesperson, were not available for comment.
Mnangagwa opts for road trip over 'faulty' chopper
President Emmerson Mnangagwa traveled by road to Rutenga in Masvingo province to commission a new amarula/mapfura plant due to security concerns over the condition of helicopters and misty weather conditions. The plant is expected to produce 100,000 litres of marula concentrate and 5,000 litres of oil each season. Mnangagwa's journey, which included a large motorcade, was also to assess the progress of the Harare-Beitbridge Highway. The decision to travel by road was influenced by a previous mid-air scare with the presidential helicopter and the need to avoid postponing the event at the last minute.
Zimbabwe records reduction in new HIV infections
Zimbabwe has seen a decline in new HIV infections from 40,900 in 2016 to 24,900 in 2020, according to the National Aids Council's (NAC) latest estimates. The total number of people living with HIV has also slightly decreased. These results were attributed to various interventions outlined in national strategic plans and the impact of COVID-19 lockdown measures, which reduced sexual encounters. The NAC's new strategic plan for 2021-2025 aims to reduce new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths by 80% and eliminate HIV stigma and discrimination. The COVID-19 pandemic, while disrupting services for people living with HIV/AIDS, inadvertently contributed to the reduction in new HIV infections due to social distancing and fear of contracting the virus.
Chamisa teargassed, convoy attacked in Masvingo
Nelson Chamisa, the leader of the MDC Alliance, was teargassed by riot police at a private residence in Masvingo, and his convoy was attacked three times by suspected Zanu PF youths, resulting in injuries to several aides and security team members. The attacks occurred while Chamisa was on his way to community meetings as part of his Agenda 2021 tour. The MDC Alliance spokesperson, Fadzayi Mahere, condemned the violence as a desperate act by an illegitimate regime. The national police spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, was unaware of the incidents, and Zanu PF acting spokesperson Mike Bimha did not confirm the involvement of party youths. The MDC-T, led by Douglas Mwonzora, held meetings in Masvingo without interruption. The Zimbabwe Peace Project has identified Zanu PF as the main perpetrator of politically-motivated violence in the country.
ZHRC bemoans rising political intolerance
The article reports on the recent political violence in Kwekwe, Zimbabwe, where one person died and 17 were injured at a Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) rally. The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) expressed concern over the rising political intolerance and violence ahead of the upcoming by-elections and 2023 general elections. ZHRC condemned the violence and urged political parties to campaign peacefully. It also called for law enforcement to remain impartial. Amnesty International commented on the situation, stating that the government's rhetoric has contributed to the violence and called for an impartial investigation and justice for the perpetrators.
Devastating effects of climate change
The article by Tatenda Chitagu discusses the plight of villagers in Masvingo province, Zimbabwe, who have been repeatedly affected by cyclones and extreme weather events. Paul Warure, a local traditional leader, expresses a sense of being cursed due to the frequent disasters. The region has faced several cyclones, including Eline in 2000 and Idai in 2019, which caused significant loss of life and damage to infrastructure. The recent Cyclone Ana has compounded the villagers' struggles, damaging homes and infrastructure. The government is deliberating on disaster risk reduction strategies, and the Meteorological Services Department is improving weather forecasting with new radars donated by the AfDB and the UN. Despite these efforts, villagers like Warure remain vulnerable to future cyclones, with six more expected in the current season.
Tropical Cyclone Ana wreaks havoc in Southern Africa
Tropical Cyclone Ana has caused significant destruction in parts of Africa, including Malawi, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. The cyclone resulted in at least four deaths and left dozens missing. In Zimbabwe, it destroyed bridges, schools, and houses, stranding hundreds of families. The Manicaland Department of Civil Protection is maintaining evacuation centers, while the United Nations Children's Fund (Unicef) is mobilizing support and monitoring the situation. The cyclone has affected approximately 21,000 people, highlighting the region's vulnerability to climate emergencies and the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.
Zimbabwean farmers revert to traditional crops to counter climate change
Farmers in southern Zimbabwe are reverting to traditional small grains and maize due to the failure of hybrid maize crops, which are not well-suited to the region's dry soils and climate. In Bikita district, 220 farmers have reintroduced traditional grains like svoboda and a tuber called tsenza. Hybrid maize, promoted by companies like Pannar and SeedCo, is expensive and requires fertilizers that degrade the soil. The Earthlore Foundation and ZIMSOFF are working to revive indigenous seed varieties and promote sustainable farming practices. The government has been criticized for its focus on hybrid maize and lack of support for small grains, although it has recently incentivized small grain cultivation by offering higher prices for these crops. Farmers are now exchanging and selling traditional seeds at fairs, and some are seeing the benefits of drought-tolerant traditional seeds over hybrid varieties.
Masvingo High Court faces judge shortage, backlog to increase
The Masvingo High Court is facing increased pressure due to the transfer of one of its three judges, Justice Neville Wamambo, to Harare. Justice Paddington Garwe highlighted this issue during the official opening of the 2022 legal year, noting the strain on the remaining judges to handle all civil and criminal cases. Despite the challenges, the civil division managed to complete 382 out of 424 cases in 2021, while the criminal division resolved 966 out of 978 cases. However, the court is dealing with a shortage of office space, a concern that Justice Garwe plans to bring to the attention of the Judicial Service Commission for prioritization. The Masvingo Magistrates Court also faced a high volume of cases, with the criminal division handling 5,528 matters and the civil division 2,188 matters in 2021.
In Zimbabwe, an irrigation project threatens a tribe’s land and trees
The Shangaan people in Chilonga, Zimbabwe, are facing potential eviction due to an irrigation scheme that threatens to clear over 12,000 hectares of land, impacting the local environment and their way of life. The land is owned by the President, and the villagers have been conserving it through sustainable practices. Dendairy, a powerful dairy company with ties to President Mnangagwa, is behind the alfalfa plantation that necessitates the eviction. The villagers, with assistance from ZELA and CNRG, have managed to temporarily halt the eviction through a High Court interdict. The government's Communal Land Rights Act allows for such evictions without consultation or compensation, raising concerns about the rights of rural Zimbabweans. The planned clearing of land for the irrigation scheme poses a threat to the biodiversity of the region, including mopane and baobab trees, and the wildlife that depends on them. The villagers have a history of environmental conservation and are worried about the impact of the project on their land and culture.
Unvaccinated civil servants face uncertain future
The Zimbabwean government has mandated COVID-19 vaccination for all civil servants, setting a deadline of October 15. Those who remain unvaccinated without justifiable reasons risk being barred from work and having their salaries frozen, as per Statutory Instrument (SI) 234. Agnes Mahomva, the chief coordinator of COVID-19 response in the Office of the President and Cabinet, stated that the number of vaccinated civil servants is still being determined. The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions has challenged the compulsory vaccination in the High Court, but the case was not deemed urgent and is still pending. Mahomva defended the policy, emphasizing public health and safety. The policy is expected to be a significant challenge for the government, especially since a majority of the 300,000 government employees were not vaccinated by the deadline. The SI does allow for exemptions under certain circumstances, but unvaccinated individuals are required to present COVID-19 test results every 72 hours, which could be costly.
How best can digital technology empower development in sub-Saharan Africa? And where are the challenges?
The article discusses how digital technology, particularly social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, is empowering development and improving public service delivery in Masvingo, Zimbabwe. Mavis Muguti, a local resident, shares how these platforms have allowed for direct communication with the Mayor, Hubert Fidze, bypassing bureaucratic delays. The Masvingo United Residents and Ratepayers Association (MURRA) has created a WhatsApp group for this purpose, which has improved service delivery and allowed residents to monitor council activities. The article also touches on the challenges of digital access, with a mobile phone penetration rate of 95.4% but low internet connectivity. It concludes with the government's efforts to bridge the digital divide, as exemplified by the launch of a Community Information Centre in Muzarabani Growth Point by the Minister of ICT, Supa Mandiwanzira.
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