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Source: VP Mohadi hails liberalisation of airwaves – herald

Thupeyo Muleya-Beitbridge Bureau

Vice President Dr Kembo Mohadi has described the liberalisation of the airwaves under the Second Republic as a game‑changer for Zimbabwe, applauding its contribution to unlocking community voices and promoting inclusive growth.

He made the remarks yesterday during a visit to one of the country’s 14 licensed community radio stations — Lotsha FM — which is based in Beitbridge District and broadcasts largely in the TshiVenda language.

VP Mohadi said the visit formed part of his assessment of high‑impact projects ahead of this year’s Independence Day celebrations.

He said community radio stations such as Lotsha FM are vital in bridging the information gap and ensuring that citizens receive news and updates in their local languages.

“They are a vital tool for promoting national unity, democracy and social transformation. In Matabeleland South, stations like Bayethe FM, Radio Bukalanga and Ntepe‑Manama are doing remarkable work in promoting local languages and culture,” said VP Mohadi.

“Community radio stations in Zimbabwe have significantly improved access to information in rural and marginalised areas, reaching thousands of listeners through the 14 licensed stations.

“They enhance democracy, promote local languages and culture, and provide vital updates on health and agriculture, fostering community participation.”

He added that stations like Lotsha FM demonstrate how community ownership and locally produced content empower residents to address local issues from an informed perspective.

The Vice President said President Mnangagwa’s vision for a prosperous Zimbabwe is taking shape, with community radio stations playing a key role in achieving Vision 2030.

In Matabeleland North, stations include Twasumbuka Community Radio Trust (serving Binga, Kamativi and Siabuwa), Mbembesi Development Trust (Ingqanga FM), and Lyeja‑Nyayi Development Trust, which covers Hwange and Victoria Falls.

These stations provide timely information on health, education and agriculture, while giving a voice to marginalised communities.

During his visit to Binga in May 2023, President Mnangagwa was interviewed by Twasumbuka FM on his arrival for the National Cultural Month launch at Kwariyangwe High School.

VP Mohadi also emphasised the Government’s commitment to broadening access to information through supporting community radio stations.

“Lotsha FM is a testament to this, having received funding to set up and operate. With sustainable funding and editorial independence, these stations will continue to thrive.”

He described Lotsha FM as a beacon of hope in Beitbridge, established through the Broadcasting Fund, and noted that the station has greatly improved access to information in rural areas while empowering residents to confront local challenges.

Cde Mohadi donated US$10 000 to Lotsha FM and pledged to provide an operational vehicle to enhance the station’s efficiency. The donation is expected to boost the station’s capacity in content production, outreach and community engagement.

The Vice President acknowledged the operational challenges facing community radio stations and stressed the importance of consistent support.

“As the Government, we are aware that challenges exist, but with sustainable funding, local capacity‑building and editorial independence, this station will thrive.”

He urged stakeholders — including the private sector and the community — to support Lotsha FM’s long‑term sustainability.

“As a community with stakeholders eager to develop their information space, we encourage collective efforts by the private sector, the community and the Government to strengthen the sustainability model at Lotsha FM.”

He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening community media under the Second Republic, saying such platforms are crucial in achieving national development goals.

“Information dissemination through radio empowers urban and rural communities in several ways — providing timely and relevant updates on health, education, agriculture and governance, helping communities make informed decisions.

“Furthermore, community radios showcase local talent, culture and languages, preserving heritage and promoting social cohesion.”

He said Lotsha FM now reaches communities in Beitbridge East — including Tshaswingo, Dite and Beitbridge town — and Beitbridge West in areas such as Mapani, Masera, Mazunga and Sentinel.

Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, said Lotsha FM serves the Beitbridge community by providing vital information, promoting local culture and fostering national unity.

“This is one of four licensed community radio stations in our province — alongside Radio Bukalanga (Plumtree), Bayethe FM (Matobo) and Ntepe‑Manama (Gwanda) — which reflects the Second Republic’s commitment to broadening access to information and promoting inclusive growth.”

Lotsha FM board chairman, Mr Mekia Muyambo, expressed appreciation for VP Mohadi’s visit and donation. He said the station has achieved significant milestones, including broadcasting in local languages such as TshiVenda, Sotho, Shangani, Ndebele and others spoken in the community, while hosting community events and providing critical information on health, education, agriculture and other current affairs.

The post VP Mohadi hails liberalisation of airwaves  appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.

Source: VP Mohadi hails liberalisation of airwaves – herald

Thupeyo Muleya-Beitbridge Bureau

Vice President Dr Kembo Mohadi has described the liberalisation of the airwaves under the Second Republic as a game‑changer for Zimbabwe, applauding its contribution to unlocking community voices and promoting inclusive growth.

He made the remarks yesterday during a visit to one of the country’s 14 licensed community radio stations — Lotsha FM — which is based in Beitbridge District and broadcasts largely in the TshiVenda language.

VP Mohadi said the visit formed part of his assessment of high‑impact projects ahead of this year’s Independence Day celebrations.

He said community radio stations such as Lotsha FM are vital in bridging the information gap and ensuring that citizens receive news and updates in their local languages.

“They are a vital tool for promoting national unity, democracy and social transformation. In Matabeleland South, stations like Bayethe FM, Radio Bukalanga and Ntepe‑Manama are doing remarkable work in promoting local languages and culture,” said VP Mohadi.

“Community radio stations in Zimbabwe have significantly improved access to information in rural and marginalised areas, reaching thousands of listeners through the 14 licensed stations.

“They enhance democracy, promote local languages and culture, and provide vital updates on health and agriculture, fostering community participation.”

He added that stations like Lotsha FM demonstrate how community ownership and locally produced content empower residents to address local issues from an informed perspective.

The Vice President said President Mnangagwa’s vision for a prosperous Zimbabwe is taking shape, with community radio stations playing a key role in achieving Vision 2030.

In Matabeleland North, stations include Twasumbuka Community Radio Trust (serving Binga, Kamativi and Siabuwa), Mbembesi Development Trust (Ingqanga FM), and Lyeja‑Nyayi Development Trust, which covers Hwange and Victoria Falls.

These stations provide timely information on health, education and agriculture, while giving a voice to marginalised communities.

During his visit to Binga in May 2023, President Mnangagwa was interviewed by Twasumbuka FM on his arrival for the National Cultural Month launch at Kwariyangwe High School.

VP Mohadi also emphasised the Government’s commitment to broadening access to information through supporting community radio stations.

“Lotsha FM is a testament to this, having received funding to set up and operate. With sustainable funding and editorial independence, these stations will continue to thrive.”

He described Lotsha FM as a beacon of hope in Beitbridge, established through the Broadcasting Fund, and noted that the station has greatly improved access to information in rural areas while empowering residents to confront local challenges.

Cde Mohadi donated US$10 000 to Lotsha FM and pledged to provide an operational vehicle to enhance the station’s efficiency. The donation is expected to boost the station’s capacity in content production, outreach and community engagement.

The Vice President acknowledged the operational challenges facing community radio stations and stressed the importance of consistent support.

“As the Government, we are aware that challenges exist, but with sustainable funding, local capacity‑building and editorial independence, this station will thrive.”

He urged stakeholders — including the private sector and the community — to support Lotsha FM’s long‑term sustainability.

“As a community with stakeholders eager to develop their information space, we encourage collective efforts by the private sector, the community and the Government to strengthen the sustainability model at Lotsha FM.”

He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening community media under the Second Republic, saying such platforms are crucial in achieving national development goals.

“Information dissemination through radio empowers urban and rural communities in several ways — providing timely and relevant updates on health, education, agriculture and governance, helping communities make informed decisions.

“Furthermore, community radios showcase local talent, culture and languages, preserving heritage and promoting social cohesion.”

He said Lotsha FM now reaches communities in Beitbridge East — including Tshaswingo, Dite and Beitbridge town — and Beitbridge West in areas such as Mapani, Masera, Mazunga and Sentinel.

Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, said Lotsha FM serves the Beitbridge community by providing vital information, promoting local culture and fostering national unity.

“This is one of four licensed community radio stations in our province — alongside Radio Bukalanga (Plumtree), Bayethe FM (Matobo) and Ntepe‑Manama (Gwanda) — which reflects the Second Republic’s commitment to broadening access to information and promoting inclusive growth.”

Lotsha FM board chairman, Mr Mekia Muyambo, expressed appreciation for VP Mohadi’s visit and donation. He said the station has achieved significant milestones, including broadcasting in local languages such as TshiVenda, Sotho, Shangani, Ndebele and others spoken in the community, while hosting community events and providing critical information on health, education, agriculture and other current affairs.

The post VP Mohadi hails liberalisation of airwaves  appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.

Source: Court halts Kitsiyatota mining operations – herald

Fidelis Munyoro-Chief Court Reporter

MINING operations in the conflict-ridden Kitsiyatota area of Bindura came to a halt yesterday, following a provincial magistrate’s order aimed at curbing escalating violence and resolving a dispute over environmental compliance.

The order, issued by Magistrate Maria Msika, was the result of an ex parte application filed by miner Lee-Roy Kambasha against Navid Incorporated (Private) Limited, Side Electricals (Private) Limited, Environmental Management  Agency, Messenger of Court and Officer Commanding  ZRP Bindura.

The magistrate granted an interim interdict stopping all mining and related activities at Kitsiyatota and surrounding claims, including Headgear, Morocco, GMB, Gwingwindi, and Phoenix Prince Mine.

“The first and second respondents, their agents, contractors, and proxies be and are hereby ordered to forthwith stop all mining-related activities upon service of this order until the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has clarified the extent to which the second respondent’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) certificate applies,” Magistrate Msika ruled.

The court emphasised that the suspension would remain in place until EMA determines the boundaries and scope of the certificate held by Side Electricals. The ZRP Bindura District has been instructed to enforce the ruling.

This decision follows a series of violent clashes between groups allegedly linked to the rival mining companies, which have turned Kitsiyatota into a flashpoint for conflict.

Court records show that in February, Kambasha was injured during a confrontation, leaving him with a broken arm. Despite arrests at the time, the suspects are reportedly out on bail awaiting trial.

Tensions escalated on March 25 when new groups, allegedly tied to Side Electricals, clashed with those already on-site. Property destruction was also reported, including damage to fencing at Freda Rebecca Gold Mine, deepening fears of further lawlessness.

At the heart of the dispute is a disagreement over the applicability of Side Electricals’ EIA certificate to mining claims, particularly within the contentious Phoenix Prince area, where operations have long been marred by conflict over territorial rights.

The magistrate noted the severe risks posed to workers and emphasised the need to prioritise safety while EMA addresses compliance issues.

The court intervention has not been limited to this case. On Tuesday, the High Court dismissed an urgent application by Side Electricals, trading as Botha Mine, which sought to execute a spoliation order pending appeal in a separate dispute with Freda Rebecca Gold Mine.

High Court Judge Gibson Mandaza rejected the plea, stating, “Execution during appeal is not warranted at this stage.” Botha Mine had sought enforcement of an earlier spoliation order despite acknowledging that the matter was still under appeal.

Magistrate Msika’s order to halt activities at Kitsiyatota represents the latest legal attempt to rein in the violence and restore order to a region increasingly consumed by its mining disputes. The court’s ruling now places responsibility on EMA to resolve the underlying compliance issue.

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Source: Court clears way for Johane Masowe exhumation – herald

Fidelis Munyoro-Chief Court Reporter

AUTHORITY has been granted for the exhumation of the remains of Peter Jack Masedza, also known as Johane Masowe, following protracted legal and administrative processes.

Johanne Masowe was buried in 1973 at a Rusape site that later became the principal shrine of the church he established.

Legal representatives of the biological sons of the late religious leader, Magaga and Rueben Masedza, issued a formal notice on March 25, 2026, to the Gospel of God Church International, advising that the exhumation would take place on April 2, 2026, at the Gandanzara Shrine in Makoni District, Rusape.

His sons have long argued that they should be allowed to rebury their father at a place they can freely access.

The church, however, insists that the site was chosen by Masedza himself and has since become sacred to thousands of congregants.

In a letter from Mushangwe and Company Legal Practitioners, the law firm affirmed that its clients had complied with all necessary administrative procedures and a burial order had been secured.

“Authority was granted from the relevant authorities to exhume and rebury the remains,” stated the letter.

The firm outlined the legal basis for the process, referencing a High Court judgment under Case No. HCH1769/23, which granted the Masedza family the right to exhume their father’s remains.

This decision was upheld by the Supreme Court in Case No. SCI 12/25.

The Provincial Registrar, J Munamati, confirmed in correspondence dated March 10 that the district registrar had been authorised to issue a burial order, further stating, “This office has no objection to the exhumation and subsequent reburial of the remains of the late Johane Masowe.”

Mr Munamati’s letter instructed that the process complied with all relevant legal and public health requirements.

“The law has spoken,” said a church elder mournfully. “How do we defy it?”

The shrine’s atmosphere is tense as the exhumation date nears.

Magaga and Rueben could not help but feel the weight of both triumph and loss.

Their father, in life, had been a man of God revered by multitudes, yet as his sons, they knew him at his most human.

The elder brother, Magaga, who had led the fight, spoke softly, “It’s been years of waiting. We have heard their prayers and braved their courts for many years, but we believe our father deserves to rest where he belongs, among his people, his blood.”

In December last year, the Supreme Court brought closure to a decades-long legal dispute over the burial of Johanne Masowe, dismissing an appeal by the Gospel of God Church International and confirming that the late church founder’s sons may pursue legal processes to exhume and rebury him.

However, the court stressed that only Government authorities, not the Judiciary,  can authorise an exhumation.

Central to the case was the question of whether a site regarded as a shrine could be treated differently under exhumation laws.

The Supreme Court held that no burial place,  shrine or otherwise, is exempt from the provisions of the Cemeteries Act, and that any party seeking exhumation must follow administrative procedures provided for in law.

In her judgment, Justice Susan Mavangira said the lower court had merely recognised the sons’ right to initiate that process — it did not authorise the removal of the remains.

“The applicants have a right to seek the exhumation of the remains of the deceased. Whether they succeed in that quest is not for this court to decide but for the appropriate administrative authorities,” she said.

The church argued that the matter had already been settled through a 2003 High Court ruling, which denied the sons access to the burial site, but the Supreme Court found that the earlier case related only to visitation and not exhumation.

It also dismissed claims that the matter had prescribed, noting that the respondents had remained engaged in related litigation over the years.

The court further observed that the exhumation process was already underway, with notices published in the Government Gazette and a local newspaper, prompting more than 50 objections.

Although this technically rendered the appeal moot, the bench decided to issue a judgment in the public interest, given the legal questions raised.

Justice Mavangira also criticised the basis of the appeal, saying the appellant “appears to be appealing against an idea, not an order,” and found no merit in the argument that a shrine was immune from statutory processes.

The exhumation marks the culmination of a highly contested legal battle between the Masedza family and the Gospel of God Church International concerning the resting place of the late Peter Jack Masedza.

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Source: Police destroy 1 000kg mbanje, other illicit drugs – herald

Freeman Razemba-Senior Reporter

POLICE have destroyed a tonne of mbanje, cough syrups, illicit beverages and other unregistered drugs recovered from dealers and peddlers following the finalisation of related court cases.

The police and relevant authorities are overseeing the burning and disposal of the seized substances at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital in Harare.

Items destroyed include 1 000kg of mbanje, 394,46 litres of cough syrups, 366 grammes of crystal meth (mutoriro), 28,7 litres of illicit beverages and 96,1kg of skin lightening creams.

In an interview, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the operation against drug dealers will continue until there is sanity across the country.

He urged the public to keep supplying information on suspects.

On Thursday, Zimbabwe Republic Police Commissioner-General Stephen Mutamba said the police service would continue collaborating with communities in the fight against crime.

“Without doubt, the old adage that we are the fish and the communities are the water remains as relevant today as ever.

“Our approach must therefore not be prescriptive, but collaborative; focused on building meaningful and productive partnerships with the communities we serve. At a time when the country is confronting the growing menace of drug and substance abuse, such collaboration is essential,” he said.

Comm-Gen Mutamba said the hidden operations of drug peddlers, the silent struggles of addiction, and the criminal activities that accompany them were often well-known within communities, even when they remained obscure to law enforcement.

The destruction of seized narcotics is a standard international procedure mandated by several United Nations drug control treaties to prevent illegal substances from being diverted back into the black market.

Many countries in the region conduct large-scale, public drug disposal exercises to demonstrate their commitment to law enforcement

The South African Police Service (SAPS) regularly carries out high-profile destructions. In March 2025, authorities destroyed drugs worth R340 million in the Western Cape. This followed a massive operation in October 2023, where R800 million worth of illicit substances were disposed of in Gauteng.

Zambia’s Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) frequently incinerates large hauls of cannabis and other drugs following court rulings. In February 2026, the DEC destroyed 6.7 tonnes of cannabis in the Lundazi District alone.

Law enforcement agencies and international bodies highlight several critical advantages to this practice.

Public destruction ensures that seized drugs are not stolen from evidence rooms or “recycled” back into the community by corrupt officials.

Conducting these exercises in the presence of the media and judicial officers builds public trust and shows that the “war on drugs” is being finalised through the legal system.

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