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Parliament of Zimbabwe receives petition against elephant culling

Published

10 months ago

October 7, 2024

VicFallsLive

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

A petition opposing the government’s decision to cull 200 elephants has been submitted to the Parliament of Zimbabwe.

The Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG), a Zimbabwean registered trust, presented the petition on October 4.

According to the petition, “The Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife and Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZIMPARKS) are… tasked with the protection, management and administration of the wildlife of Zimbabwe.”

The petition states that the decision to cull elephants is unwarranted and will have devastating consequences for conservation and tourism.

“We believe the proposed slaughter of elephants will open a floodgate to poaching in a region where at least 28,000 elephants are killed by poachers every year.”

The petition also raises concerns about the impact on tourism, which is a significant contributor to Zimbabwe’s economy.

“Tourism is one of the 4 pillars that anchor our economy – contributing on average 5.8% to the country’s GDP and 8.6% of the total employment.”

Furthermore, the petition highlights the risk of zoonotic diseases associated with consuming wild animal meat.

“The World Health Organization has also warned that ‘meat or by-products of wild animals are particularly high risk due to the large number of new or undocumented pathogens known to exist in some wild animal populations’.”

The petitioners are calling on Parliament to exercise its constitutional role and hold the Ministry of Environment, Climate, and Wildlife accountable.

Government considers culling elephants to feed starving communities

“We beseech the Parliament of Zimbabwe to address these issues of public concern… Stop the proposed killing of elephants and investigate the real causes of the rising Human-Wildlife Conflict and recommend mitigating measures.”

National

Zimbabwe Republic Police officer faces charges for allegedly claiming to be ZRP boss

Published

8 hours ago

August 15, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY STAFF REPORTER

A Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officer appeared in court today facing charges of causing disaffection among police officers, procuring the use of a motor vehicle by fraud, and transmitting false data messages intending to cause harm.

Simbarashe Mandizvidza, an Assistant Inspector in the ZRP, was remanded in custody to Monday, when he will apply for bail.

According to the State, Mandizvidza on August 14, broadcast a video on his YouTube channel, Gondo Harishaye, claiming to be the head of the ZRP, despite knowing that Commissioner General Stephen Mutamba holds the position.

The State alleges that Mandizvidza’s actions were intended to cause disaffection among police officers, contrary to Section 30 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, Chapter 9:23.

Mandizvidza is also accused of procuring the use of a Ford Ranger vehicle by misrepresenting to Chief Inspector Chiteure that he had been instructed by Commissioner Makomo to use the vehicle for errands.

Furthermore, the State alleges that Mandizvidza transmitted false data messages on his YouTube channel, including claims that the ZRP Traffic section had been temporarily disbanded and that Chinese nationals must leave Zimbabwe within 48 hours.

The State indicated that it will oppose Mandizvidza’s bail application, citing the seriousness of the offenses and the need to protect the public interest.

The case continues on Monday.

In the community

Chief Mvutu installation underway

Published

19 hours ago

August 15, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

Hwange District is bracing for a historic event today as Chief Mvutu is officially installed as the new substantive chief.

The installation ceremony, which comes eleven years after the passing of Silibaziso Mlotshwa’s father in 2014, is featuring speeches, entertainment, and traditional greetings.

According to the programme, the ceremony will commence with the arrival of invited guests, followed by the arrival of distinguished guests.

The event will feature speeches by various dignitaries, including Richard Moyo, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, and Senator Chief Mtshane Khumalo, President of the National Council of Chiefs.

Other highlights of the ceremony include the investiture of Chief Mvutu, the paying of allegiance by village heads, and the presentation of gifts.

The installation ceremony marks a significant milestone in the district’s history, bringing to an end a protracted dispute over the chieftainship.

The event is expected to attract dignitaries, community leaders, and residents from across the district.

In the community

Nkayi man in court for alleged rape of minor

Published

20 hours ago

August 15, 2025

VicFallsLive

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

A 28-year-old man from Nkayi appeared before the Nkayi Magistrates’ Court, facing charges of raping his 15-year-old niece.

The prosecution alleges that the incident occurred on July 28, 2025, in a secluded bushy area. The accused is said to have sexually assaulted the minor after she refused his advances.

The matter was reported to the authorities, leading to the accused’s arrest. He has been remanded in custody pending his next court appearance.

The case has been referred to the Bulawayo Regional Court for further proceedings, with the accused set to appear on August 26.