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Legislators push for indigenous language promotion in schools

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BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

It was a lively debate in the Parliament of Zimbabwe as MPs discussed the motion tabled by Discent Bajila on promoting indigenous languages in schools.

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“I stood up to support the motion…the issue of our indigenous languages is very important,” said Spencer Tshuma.

“We were colonised by the whites and that is why we love the English language…we were lost as a nation and it should be rectified in the shortest possible time so that we can develop as a country.”

Another MP added, “We used to pray in our local languages. We would use our local languages to talk to our ancestors who would then take our prayers to God…why is it that such things are changing on a daily basis?”

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They emphasized the need for children to learn in their local languages, saying “it will be easy for them to learn and it will also be easy for the teacher to teach them.”

Sithabisiwe Moyo for Bubi/Umguza expressed her happiness about the motion.

“I am really happy about this motion which pertains to the discussion of having children being taught in their native languages so that they grow up articulating and appreciating their mother language.”

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Elizabeth Masuku, also from Bubi/Umguza supported the motion, stating “this motion is not merely a nod to cultural preservation, it is a profound step towards fostering inclusivity, enhancing comprehension and fortifying our national identity.”

Others also noted that trying to speak in a foreign language may lead to a breakdown of communication.

Finally, Taurai Dexter Malinganiso emphasized the need for action.

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“We therefore require a deliberate action, deliberate policy with which to preserve our languages, promote the same in a manner that salvages our identity from this marauding quest by the erstwhile colonisers to actually down our heritage.”

Biatah Nyamupinga, who had spoken earlier, was also in agreement with the motion, highlighting the importance of understanding local languages in healthcare, particularly in discussing diseases like cervical cancer.

Recommendations from the debate included:

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– Including indigenous languages in the school curriculum from an early age

– Providing funding and resources for the development of teaching materials in local languages

– Encouraging the use of local languages in schools, especially for subjects like Biology, Science, and Maths

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– Supporting cultural programs that promote local languages and heritage

– Developing technology to facilitate communication in local languages.

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National

Chidzivo, Waison take top honors at Vic Falls Marathon

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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Beyond the races, this year’s event featured live music, traditional dance, health expos, and community wellness activities.

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Coal train in flames: NRZ locomotive damaged in fire incident

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BY WANDILE TSHUMA 

A National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) locomotive suffered significant damage after catching fire while transporting export coal to Zambi. The incident occurred between Kalala and Matetsi sidings, resulting in the explosion of the locomotive’s fuel tanks.

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According to the NRZ press statement on Monday, “A National Railways of Zimbabwe locomotive suffered some damages after it caught fire this afternoon while transporting export coal to Zambia.” Fortunately, the crew members on board managed to escape unharmed.

The NRZ responded swiftly to the incident, dispatching a rescue train with crews to the site. The team successfully extinguished the fire, preventing further damage. However, the locomotive itself sustained considerable damage.

The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, with investigations currently underway. “Investigations are already underway to establish the cause of the fire and the amount of damage to the locomotive,” the NRZ statement read.

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Ranger killed by elephant in Kariba

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BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI 

A 62-year-old ranger, Josphat Mandishara, was tragically killed by an elephant in Kariba yesterday.

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Mandishara, who worked for the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks), was on patrol in the Gatche-gatche area with fellow rangers and police officers.

At around 10 pm, Mandishara returned to the harbor where their boat was docked, and that’s when he encountered the elephant. The elephant charged at him, causing fatal injuries. His colleagues were nearby, resupplying at the Gatche-gatche Irrigation Scheme.

Mandishara’s body was taken to Kariba District Hospital for a post-mortem, and the incident was reported to the police.

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ZimParks has sent a team to manage the problem elephant and prevent similar incidents in the future.

The Director General of ZimParks, Prof. Edson Gandiwa, and his team have sent condolences to Mandishara’s family, friends, and colleagues. Mandishara will be remembered for his dedication to wildlife conservation in Zimbabwe.

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