In the community

Jambezi villagers send SOS as veld fire threatens homesteads, livestock

Published

3 years ago

August 27, 2021

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI /NOTHANDO DUBE

Villagers in Hwange’s Jambezi area are struggling to put out a veld fire that has been raging since August 19, leaving hundreds of homesteads and livestock at risk.

The fire is believed to have been started by suspected poachers in the Hillcrest game reserve close to villages under Chief Shana.

A villager Kachechete identified as Christopher Nyoni lost all his property after his hut was razed down by the fire.

A police memo seen by VicFallsLive says the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks, Forestry Commission and police were informed about the threatening fire, but they are yet to respond for various reasons.

The memo said Masikili villagers delegated one Christopher Ndlovu to make a police report about the fire after they realised that they had no capacity to stop it.

“On August 19, 2021 around 1000hrs,Christopher Ndlovu, a male aged 52 of own homestead, Masikili Village 1, Matetsi, Chief Shana, Jambezi discovered a veld fire at Hillcrest, Masikili area,” reads part of the memo.

“He advised the hunting committee chairperson Agrippa Ncube, a male aged 60 years of own homestead, and on 20 August, around 9AM, the hunting committee chairperson mobilized other villagers and went to the scene where they tried to put out the fire, but to no avail.

“Parks and Wildlife Management officials at Matetsi headquarters were advised, but could not attend citing distance and transport challenges.”

The desperate villagers also approached a Forestry Commission official at Fuller Forestry in Victoria Falls only identified as Mr Mutsvangwa, but they did not get any help.

“(The) matter was reported at ZRP Matetsi base, Jambezi by Christopher Ndlovu,” the memo added.

“Scene was attended, but nothing much was done to stop the spreading fire, the fire might have been set by poachers.”

Matabeleland North police spokesperson Inspector Glory Banda confirmed that they received reports about the fire and they were trying to find ways of assisting the villagers.

Efforts to get a comment from Zimparks were fruitless as the authority’s spokesperson Tinashe Farawo said he was traveling from Harare to Hwange.

Zimbabwe loses swathes of forests every year due to uncontrolled veld fires often started by poachers and negligent people.

Hwange

Hwange mourns the loss of Africa’s giant: Big Charlie Nyoni

Published

5 days ago

February 19, 2025

VicFallsLive

Supplied picture

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

The community of Hwange is in mourning after the passing of Charles Nyoni, affectionately known as Big Charlie, a giant of a man who stood at an astonishing 2.10 meters tall and weighed 288kg.

Big Charlie’s demise yesterday has sent shockwaves throughout the nation, with many remembering him as a gentle giant and a local icon. His larger-than-life personality and towering physique earned him the title of Hwange’s own Goliath and possibly the biggest man in Africa.

According to a close relative, Big Charlie was admitted to St. Patrick’s Hospital last Friday, where he succumbed to his long-standing health issues. He had been battling gigantism, acromegaly, high blood pressure, and diabetes in recent years.

The Office of the MP for Hwange Central constituency has issued a statement confirming Big Charlie’s passing and appealing for urgent financial assistance to cover his medical expenses. The community is rallying around the Nyoni family, with many calling for support to help with the burial costs.

“Big Charlie was more than just a local celebrity; he was a symbol of hope and resilience for our community,” said Daniel Molokele, Hon. MP for Hwange Central constituency. “We urge everyone to come together and support the Nyoni family during this difficult time.”

As the community comes to terms with the loss of this giant of a man, memories of his infectious smile, kindness, and generosity continue to flood social media. Big Charlie’s legacy will undoubtedly live on, inspiring future generations with his remarkable story.

The family has appealed for donations to help with the burial expenses. Those wishing to contribute can contact Florence Sibanda on 078 732 8056.

Hwange

Jambezi officer of the law turns alleged rapist

Published

4 weeks ago

January 27, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

A 39-year-old police officer stationed at Jambezi has been arraigned before the Victoria Falls Magistrates’ Court on charges of raping a 13-year-old girl. The alleged incident occurred on January 18, at around 12:30 am, when the accused officer reportedly pounced on the minor, who was with her cousin at the time.

According to the allegations, the police officer questioned the two girls about their presence at that late hour, and they explained that they were waiting for their sister. The accused then dragged the 13-year-old behind a nearby shop, where he fondled her breasts, kissed her, and ultimately raped her.

In an attempt to silence his victim, the police officer bought her two soft drinks, two packets of biscuits, and a bottle of opaque beer. The accused has been remanded to February 7, pending further proceedings.

Hwange

Victoria Falls man appears in court for rape of 13-year-old girl

Published

4 weeks ago

January 27, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY STAFF REPORTER

A Victoria Falls man was arraigned before the Victoria Falls Magistrates Court on charges of raping a 13-year-old girl.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority, the alleged incident occurred on October 10, last year, at around 7 pm, at a house in Chinotimba Township.

The accused allegedly entered the complainant’s bedroom while she was alone, forcefully undressed her, and raped her.

After the assault, he threatened to kill her if she revealed the incident to anyone.

The matter only came to light on January 12, when the complainant confided in her aunt about her ordeal.

The case has been remanded to tomorrow.