National

MPs call for increased funding for cancer research and treatment

Published

10 months ago

September 13, 2024

VicFallsLive

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

On Thursday, Zimbabwe’s parliament engaged in a lengthy debate regarding the country’s response to cancer.

The discussion centered on a motion to enhance cancer awareness programs and modernize cancer treatment equipment at Mpilo and Parirenyatwa Hospitals.

The debate was sparked by Thokozani Khupe’s motion, which emphasized the need for collective action to address the growing threat of cancer in Zimbabwe.

Joseph Mapiki expressed support for the motion, highlighting the importance of unity in addressing the issue. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach, including awareness campaigns, research into traditional medicines, and investment in modern technology. He also stressed the importance of prevention, citing the need for a compulsory law promoting the consumption of small grains and a levy on sugary foods.

Perseviarance Zhou raised a point of order, questioning the validity of Mapiki’s statement regarding the use of herbs by women to maintain their “virginity.”

The Speaker acknowledged the difficulty in ruling on the matter, noting that while some concoctions may have negative effects, research has shown that certain traditional medicines can cause cervical cancer.

Spencer Tshuma emphasized the need for collective effort in addressing cancer, highlighting the devastating impact of the disease on individuals and families. He stressed the importance of early detection and treatment, citing the need for investment in modern equipment and trained personnel. He also emphasized the need for a multisectoral approach, involving government, NGOs, and private players.

Miriam Matinenga emphasized the importance of awareness campaigns, particularly in rural areas. He suggested that chiefs and traditional leaders play a crucial role in disseminating information about cancer and its effects.

Mail Nkomo expressed gratitude to President Mnangagwa for his support of Khupe’s treatment and emphasized the need for a unified approach to addressing cancer. She highlighted the importance of awareness campaigns, citing the success of HIV/AIDS awareness initiatives. She proposed that the Ministry of Health and Child Care, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information, develop a comprehensive campaign strategy to educate the public about cancer.

Did you know? Cancer is now acknowledged as a major cause of morbidity and mortality in Zimbabwe with over 7 500 new cancer cases and over 2 500 deaths being recorded per year, according to the Cancer Association of Zimbabwe.

The debate highlighted the critical need for a collective and comprehensive approach to address the growing threat of cancer in Zimbabwe. It emphasized the importance of awareness campaigns, research, investment in modern technology, and a multisectoral approach to prevent and treat cancer effectively.

National

Coal train in flames: NRZ locomotive damaged in fire incident

Published

3 months ago

April 16, 2025

VicFallsLive

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.

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.

National

Ranger killed by elephant in Kariba

Published

4 months ago

March 14, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

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

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.

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.

National

ZIMRA customs officer appears in court for criminal abuse of office

Published

5 months ago

February 3, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY STAFF REPORTER

A Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) customs officer, Phillip Kuvenga, has been accused of criminal abuse of office for allegedly assisting in the importation of banned motor vehicles.

Kuvenga, 28, who is stationed at Victoria Falls, allegedly received documents from clients, completed valuation sheets, and carried out the valuation process. However, he is accused of endorsing different chassis numbers to deceive his supervisors during the validation and approval process.

After obtaining approval, Kuvenga would capture the correct chassis numbers in the ASYCUDA World System. He would then alter or replace the documents submitted earlier to his supervisors.

The offense came to light when a motor vehicle that had not yet arrived in Zimbabwe was found to have been already registered. A thorough check by ZIMRA led to Kuvenga’s arrest.

Kuvenga appeared in court on February 1, where he was denied bail by Magistrate Gift Manyka. He is expected to appear in court again today for another bail hearing.