BY STAFF REPORTER

War veteran Blessed Runesu Geza, who rose to national prominence after publicly calling for the resignation of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has died in exile in South Africa, his family has announced.

In a statement released on Friday, the Geza family said he died on Thursday morning at a cardiac hospital in South Africa after a battle with cancer.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our hero Cde Blessed Runesu Geza, popularly known as Cde Bombshell,” the family said.

Geza, a liberation war veteran, gained a large following in recent years through his outspoken criticism of the government and his calls for political accountability, positioning himself as a vocal figure within Zimbabwe’s increasingly polarised political landscape.

The family said Geza “touched many lives with his fight for justice to ensure that all Zimbabweans realise their aspirations,” and urged the public to remain strong during what it described as a trying moment.

They also cautioned Zimbabweans against fundraising initiatives linked to his death, warning that some individuals may seek to “cash in” on the tragedy.

“We encourage Zimbabweans to ignore any call for GoFundMe towards his funeral,” the statement said.

Funeral arrangements are still being finalised and will be communicated in due course, the family added. They said a designated family spokesperson would be announced to handle all official communication.

Geza had been living outside Zimbabwe at the time of his death, having relocated to South Africa amid heightened political tensions.

BY STAFF REPORTER

A 31-year-old man from Tsholotsho has been sentenced to an effective six months in prison after being convicted of stealing and slaughtering his neighbour’s goat.

The incident occurred on 11 July 2024 when the complainant released his herd to graze at Mhlahlo grazing land. One black-and-white goat failed to return, prompting the owner and fellow villagers to launch a search.

The search led to the accused’s homestead, where the complainant positively identified the carcass of his missing goat. The man initially denied involvement in the theft, but investigations revealed overwhelming evidence linking him to the crime.

He was arrested and placed in police custody but later escaped while being taken to the police station. The escape was promptly reported, leading to his re-arrest.

The court sentenced the accused to 12 months’ imprisonment, with three months suspended on condition of good behaviour. A further three months were suspended on condition that he pays restitution amounting to ZAR1 500. He will therefore serve an effective six-month prison term.

In a statement, the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe commended communities for remaining vigilant and reporting crime promptly.

“Justice is strongest when citizens stand together against lawlessness. Silence and tolerance of crime only empower offenders,” the NPAZ said.

BY WANDILE TSHUMA

The Environmental Management Agency (EMA), in partnership with Lupane State University, has launched a community-based initiative to control and reduce the impact of the toxic plant Dichapetalum cymosum, locally known as Umkhawuzane or Gifblaar, which has caused significant livestock losses in Matabeleland North.

The initiative, focuses on managing the spread of the poisonous plant, which is widely recognised as one of the most dangerous threats to cattle in Southern Africa. Gifblaar is estimated to contribute to about eight percent of livestock deaths linked to toxic plants in the region. The plant contains fluoroacetate, a potent toxin that causes sudden death in animals and poses risks of secondary poisoning through the food chain.

According to EMA, the study was carried out in Ward 18 (Makhovula) in Lupane District and Ward 10 in Umguza District. It combined community sensitisation with mechanical and chemical control trials aimed at identifying effective ways to eradicate the plant.

Community engagements revealed a high level of awareness among farmers about the toxicity of Umkhawuzane. Farmers reported losing an average of three to four animals per household during the winter season, when forage is scarce and the plant remains green, increasing the risk of livestock consumption.

Results from the trials showed that mechanical removal of the plant produced promising outcomes. No regeneration was observed in areas where roots were excavated to depths of between one and 1.5 metres. However, chemical control using glyphosate only led to temporary suppression of the plant and did not achieve complete eradication, while also affecting surrounding vegetation.

EMA said the findings highlight the need for integrated and site-specific management approaches. These include effective mechanical removal, cautious use of chemicals, and continuous community education to prevent further losses.

The agency, together with Lupane State University, reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with local communities to protect livestock, improve rangeland management and reduce the economic losses caused by Umkhawuzane in Matabeleland North.