National
The unspoken struggle: Men’s mental health in Zimbabwe
BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI
Imagine a society where men are told to “toughen up” and “be strong”, but in reality, they’re struggling to cope with depression, anxiety, and stress.
This is the harsh reality in Zimbabwe, where the suicide rate is alarmingly high, and men are suffering in silence.
We spoke with Hwange District Medical Officer Fungai Musinami, who shared a startling truth: “Men are more likely to successfully complete suicide attempts than women.
Dr Fungai Musinami
“There is this concept in our society that a real man doesn’t cry, doesn’t struggle, and has to be strong. But men also struggle with depression and anxiety, and we’ve seen men commit suicides due to financial and relational challenges.“
But why is this happening? Musinami explains, “Our society perpetuates a harmful narrative that men must be invincible. But the truth is, men are human too. They face financial pressures, relationship stress…just like women. And when they can’t cope, they’re more likely to take their own lives.”
The statistics are chilling:
– 38 suicide attempts in January and February this year at Mpilo Hospital, up from 11 in the same period last year
– 162 attempted suicide cases in 2023
– Suicide rate in Zimbabwe: 18 deaths per 100 000 people, higher than the global average and neighboring countries
It’s time to break the silence and create a safe space for men to open up, Musinami urges, “Let’s treat men who are struggling with mental health issues with the same compassion and support as women. Let’s recognize that men are not weaker for failing to cope, but rather, they need our understanding and care.”
Musinami emphasized the need for a change in approach, particularly in churches, where women’s meetings are common, but men’s mental health is often overlooked.
BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI
Blessing Waison and Fortunate Chidzivo took top honors at the 2025 Econet Victoria Falls Marathon yesterday, as Zimbabwean long-distance runners excelled at Africa’s most prestigious road race.
Econet General Manager – Marketing, Mrs Tariro Muchena (left), and Finance Director, Mr Chengeto Moyo, present the winner’s prize to men’s marathon champion, Blessing Waison, at the 2025 Econet Victoria Falls Marathon, while Victoria Falls Mayor, Mr Prince Moyo, looks on
The event, which featured athletes from over 40 countries, saw Waison storm to victory in the men’s full marathon, clocking 2 hours, 13 minutes, and 16 seconds. He narrowly beat decorated Olympian Isaac Mpofu in a thrilling duel that brought thousands of spectators to their feet.
Godwin Katakura followed closely in third, completing an all-Zimbabwean podium sweep in the 42.2km race. The trio’s success came with bigger rewards this year, after Econet Wireless doubled the total prize purse to $50,000.
Waison walked away with $3,000, while Mpofu and Katakura earned $2,000 and $1,500, respectively.
In the women’s marathon, Chidzivo delivered a commanding performance, clocking 2 hours and 42 minutes to claim another major title in her illustrious career. Ethel Pangiso and Phillipa Dube completed the women’s podium in second and third place, respectively.
Rising star Wayne Kabondo turned heads in the men’s 21km half marathon, overcoming a formidable field to finish in 1 hour, 3 minutes, and 44 seconds. Kabondo pocketed $1,500 for his efforts.
In the women’s 21km race, Caroline Mhandu crossed the line in 1 hour, 17 minutes, and 50 seconds, ahead of Miriam Sibanda and Melody Kaseke.
The marathon’s inclusive spirit was evident in the 18km Specially Abled Races, which saw uplifting performances across different categories. Godknows Hamadziripi claimed the men’s tricycle title, while Samson Muroyiwa won the handcycle event.
Among the women, Stella Jongwe triumphed in the handcycle race, and Ratidzo Tomu took first position in the tricycle category.
Organized by Econet Wireless in partnership with Wild Horizons, the 2025 edition drew over 5,000 participants and spectators from more than 40 countries. The marathon route, widely regarded as Africa’s most scenic, winds through game reserves and offers spectacular views of the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls.
https://x.com/vic_falls_live/status/1941861569450725776?s=46
Beyond the races, this year’s event featured live music, traditional dance, health expos, and community wellness activities.
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