In the community

Hunger and road crisis hit Tsholotsho: Chief Magama sounds alarm

Published

1 year ago

August 7, 2024

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

Chief Magama of Tsholotsho district has expressed grave concern over the alarming levels of hunger and the deplorable state of road networks in his area of jurisdiction.

“We are facing an unprecedented starvation crisis in our community, which poses a significant challenge,” he lamented.

“Despite the government’s efforts to provide assistance, it is woefully inadequate. There is an urgent need for increased aid, as even domesticated animals are struggling to survive.”

The region is grappling with a severe food insecurity crisis, with a staggering 520 524 people struggling to access basic nutrition, according to Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube.

To combat this crisis, Ncube said the government has distributed 1 839.2 metric tonnes of grain, which represents a mere 16% of the required 11 711.8 metric tonnes needed to sustain the population for three months.

Chief Magama also highlighted the critical state of road networks in Tsholotsho, saying, “The roads are in a disastrous condition. It’s a critical situation, and there is an urgent need for the government to intervene and provide assistance.”

He noted that even during emergencies, it becomes extremely difficult for people to seek assistance, especially for women in labor.

“The roads are riddled with potholes, making them impassable. We appeal to the authorities to expedite the repair of these roads.”

The deplorable state of the roads has sparked widespread outrage across Matabeleland North province.

Poor state of the roads has forced public transport operators to suspend their services due to the damage it causes to their vehicles.

This has also led to starvation in villages as the department of social welfare is struggling to deliver maize to some areas due to the bad state of the road.

In Tsholotsho, transport operators now opt to use long, circuitous routes via Solusi Road.

In the community

Chief Mvutu installation underway

Published

19 hours ago

August 15, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

Hwange District is bracing for a historic event today as Chief Mvutu is officially installed as the new substantive chief.

The installation ceremony, which comes eleven years after the passing of Silibaziso Mlotshwa’s father in 2014, is featuring speeches, entertainment, and traditional greetings.

According to the programme, the ceremony will commence with the arrival of invited guests, followed by the arrival of distinguished guests.

The event will feature speeches by various dignitaries, including Richard Moyo, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, and Senator Chief Mtshane Khumalo, President of the National Council of Chiefs.

Other highlights of the ceremony include the investiture of Chief Mvutu, the paying of allegiance by village heads, and the presentation of gifts.

The installation ceremony marks a significant milestone in the district’s history, bringing to an end a protracted dispute over the chieftainship.

The event is expected to attract dignitaries, community leaders, and residents from across the district.

In the community

Nkayi man in court for alleged rape of minor

Published

20 hours ago

August 15, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

A 28-year-old man from Nkayi appeared before the Nkayi Magistrates’ Court, facing charges of raping his 15-year-old niece.

The prosecution alleges that the incident occurred on July 28, 2025, in a secluded bushy area. The accused is said to have sexually assaulted the minor after she refused his advances.

The matter was reported to the authorities, leading to the accused’s arrest. He has been remanded in custody pending his next court appearance.

The case has been referred to the Bulawayo Regional Court for further proceedings, with the accused set to appear on August 26.

In the community

Victoria Falls man sentenced to six months for domestic violence

Published

20 hours ago

August 15, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY STAFF REPORTER

A 33-year-old Victoria Falls man has been sentenced to 6 months imprisonment for domestic violence charges. The sentence was handed down by the Victoria Falls Magistrates’ Court.

The man, from Chinotimba, was arrested on August 3 for a domestic violence charge. According to the National Prosecuting Authority, the facts of the matter are as follows: a misunderstanding arose between the offender and his 32-year-old wife over money left in her jacket. Later that evening, the offender shouted at his wife before strangling her several times on the neck. The victim reported the matter to the police, which led to the offender’s arrest.

The court sentenced the offender to 6 months imprisonment, with two months suspended for five years on condition of good behavior.

A further four months were suspended on the condition that he performs 140 hours of community service.