In the community

Kachechete embraces sustainable energy with new biogas digesters

Published

12 months ago

September 12, 2024

BY STAFF REPORTER

In a significant step towards sustainable energy, the rural community of Kachechete has successfully commissioned 24 biogas digesters.

This initiative, launched in collaboration with Wild Horizons, the Rotary Club of Victoria Falls, and the local community, aims to reduce reliance on traditional energy sources like firewood and fossil fuels.

“The biogas digesters align perfectly with our national vision 2030 objectives, which aim to create a modern, prosperous Zimbabwe,” said Silibaziso Mlotshwa, speaking on behalf of acting Chief Mvuthu, Bishop Matata Sibanda.

“Embracing sustainable, clean energy solutions like this project helps uplift our communities while contributing to national and global sustainability goals.”

The biogas digesters provide a critical alternative to firewood, reducing pressure on local forests. “We are only allowed to fetch firewood from designated forest areas on Thursdays, which is often insufficient for our needs. The biogas digesters will help close this gap and protect our valuable forests,” Mlotshwa added.

Community members, especially women and girls, are expected to benefit significantly from the biogas project. “The introduction of biogas technology means our girls have more time for schoolwork and are less exposed to dangers like abuse while fetching firewood. This project is a blessing for our community,” said Monica Matibi, a local resident.

Wild Horizons representative Tendani Nemalwondo explained the environmental and economic benefits of the biogas digesters, which convert organic waste into methane gas. “Biogas digesters are eco-friendly devices that provide sustainable energy for cooking, heating, lighting, and even electricity generation. They also produce bio-fertilizer and natural pesticides, enhancing agricultural productivity.”

Lanforce Energy’s Chief Operating Officer Victor Tarirayi highlighted the cost-effectiveness of biogas technology, noting its potential to reduce household expenses significantly. “A biogas digester is a cost-effective solution; once installed, it can cut energy costs dramatically. For a household of six, which might spend US$30 monthly on gas or electricity, these savings can be redirected to other needs like school fees.”

In the community

Woman connives with boyfriend to kill step mother

Published

6 days ago

September 4, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY STAFF REPORTER

A chilling murder case has unfolded in Tsholotsho, where a 34-year-old woman, Linnar Muzimela, and her boyfriend, Nkosi, are being sought by police for allegedly killing Muzimela’s 58-year-old step mother, Jenifer Dube.

According to the police, the brutal murder occurred in Magotsha Line in May 2025. The suspects allegedly buried Dube’s body in a shallow grave in the garden, where it was later retrieved by police on Tuesday, this week.

Police are now appealing for information that may lead to the arrest of Muzimela and Nkosi. The motive behind the murder is still unclear, but the police are working tirelessly to piece together the events surrounding Dube’s tragic death.

In the community

Victoria Falls Junior Council urged to propose projects for 2026 budget

Published

1 week ago

September 1, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY STAFF REPORTER

In a significant push to empower the youth and encourage community development, Kholwani Mangena, the Chamber Secretary of Victoria Falls City Council, has urged the Junior Council to identify and propose projects they wish to see funded in the 2026 budget.

This call to action was made during a recent budget consultation meeting held at Chinotimba Clinic, where concerns about the lack of support for the Junior Council and local youth from the council’s livelihoods program were raised.

Mangena highlighted an opportunity, revealing that the council has earmarked a piece of land specifically for youth-led initiatives, particularly in agriculture.

“Otherwise, on the other projects you have proposed such as poultry in this coming budget, for 2026, we have earmarked some piece of land so that if you want to do poultry, you can do that,” she stated. Her message was clear: youth and women, as well as people with disabilities, must take the initiative to define their projects and funding needs.

The Secretary brought attention to previous efforts made by the council to support marginalized groups, mentioning, “We gave them a piece of land somewhere about three months ago,” referring to the land allocated for various community projects. She encouraged the Junior Council to be proactive in outlining their desired projects, saying, “Identify your projects. Be clear about the projects that you want to do and the funding. And then we can ask the council to fund those.”

Mangena also offered support for fundraising efforts, suggesting that the council could provide initial funding for activities like a talent show to help raise funds for their proposed initiatives. “Before the end of the year, we can do that. For example, maybe you want to do some fundraising. We can give you the money to start that fundraising,” she continued, emphasizing the importance of grassroots efforts in driving change and development.

Hwange

Argument over underwear leads to stabbing and attempted murder charge for Hwange woman

Published

2 weeks ago

August 29, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY STAFF REPORTER

Eunice Ngwenya, a 32-year-old woman from Makwika Village, has appeared in the Hwange Regional Court, facing charges of attempted murder following a domestic dispute that left her boyfriend, Mbekezeli Sibanda, in serious condition.

The incident, which occurred on the 18th of August, began when Ngwenya, Sibanda, and Ngwenya’s sister were walking together. According to reports, the disagreement erupted over Sibanda’s inner garment, which Ngwenya allegedly refused to return despite his repeated requests.

Following a brief separation, Ngwenya returned to the scene with the garment in hand. However, she had concealed a kitchen knife within it.

As Sibanda reached to reclaim his clothing, Ngwenya allegedly pulled out the knife and stabbed him twice—once in the right arm and once in the right side of his chest.

Witness accounts indicated that Sibanda sustained serious bleeding injuries as a result of the stabbings.

In a state of distress, he attempted to seek help from a workmate but was unsuccessful. Despite his injuries, he managed to return home, where a friend assisted him in reporting the matter to the police and obtaining medical treatment.

A medical report confirming the wounds has been compiled and will serve as evidence in this case.

Following the incident, Ngwenya was arrested and charged with attempted murder.

She was remanded in custody today, with the court setting her next appearance for on the 5th of September, pending the finalization of investigations.