In the community

A nation in crisis: 280 children lost in four months – MP

Published

1 year ago

July 24, 2024

BY STAFF REPORTER

In a somber and thought-provoking address, Member of Parliament Asendu Dube of Matabeleland South stood before parliament on Tuesday to shed light on a devastating issue plaguing the nation.

“My point of interest is with regards to child mortality around the country,” MP Dube declared, setting the tone for a heartfelt and impassioned plea to tackle the alarming rise in deaths among Zimbabwe’s youngest citizens.

With a focus on the staggering figures emerging from Mpilo Hospital, where 98 children lost their lives in March 2024 alone, MP Dube’s speech painted a stark picture of a nation in crisis, prompting him to call for a comprehensive and collective response to curb the scourge of child mortality.

Below is his full speech:

HON. DUBE: On a point of national interest Madam Speaker. My point of interest is with regard to child mortality around the country. Child mortality refers to death of children under the age of five years and may include still births. Neonatal deaths and deaths for those under five years among other types of child mortality.

Madam Speaker, Zimbabwe has faced an increase in child mortality during the first half of the year 2024, with the most alarming figures coming from Mpilo Hospital where 98 children are reported to have died in the month of March 2024 alone.

Between January and April 2024, a total of 280 children are reported to have died at Mpilo Hospital alone.

Madam Speaker, given that the National Assembly comprises of 280 MPs, this means that Zimbabwe potentially lost its entire future lower House in four months from one hospital. More children were lost in other hospitals and this is a cause for concern.

Madam Speaker, I rise to call for the whole society approach to curb child mortality, which should include an investigation by relevant Portfolio Committees on the cause of the rise in child mortality, a dedicated programme of ensuring all expectant mothers and mothers of infants have access to nutritious diets, adequate wages for nurses as well as availability of medicines at all baby clinics around the country. I thank you.

THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Thank you Hon. Dube. You have raised very important issues, but I advise you to raise a motion on this particular issue so it can be debated in this House.

In the community

Chief Mvutu installation underway

Published

1 day 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

1 day 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

1 day 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.