National
Victoria Falls’ popular ‘Prophet Amukela’ dies mysteriously
BY ISAAC NTULI
A prominent Victoria Falls church leader died under mysterious circumstances after he allegedly went outside his bedroom after being called by unidentified people in the middle of the night.
Amukela Nyathi from Lupinyu Village near the Victoria Falls International Airport died at his homestead early this month, leaving the community dumbfounded.
Pall bearers carrying Prophet Nyathi’s coffin at his homestead
Nyathi, who was 46 at the time of his death, was a popular self-proclaimed prophet and founder of the United African Apostolic Church.
A family member who requested to remain anonymous said the prophet, popularly known as Amukela, woke up in the middle of the night saying a voice was instructing to go outside.
“We understand that he complied and when he came back, his family members heard him knocking loudly on the door,” he said.
“They found him weak and frothing at the mouth. He was crawling and struggling to breathe.”
Nyathi was rushed to Victoria Falls Hospital, which is located about 19 kilometres from his homestead, but he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Hundreds of people attended the prophet’s burial
Hwange West Member of Parliament Godfrey Dube told mourners at the funeral that Nyathi had made a huge contribution in development projects around Hwange district.
“I am saddened to be witnessing the passing on of a man I spoke to recently,” Dube said.
“He was a man who helped many spiritually, but we have to accept it.”
United African Apostolic Church’s bishop for Hwange Pastor Albert Ndlovu said their church, founded by Nyathi, transformed many lives spiritually.
He said the prophet had the powers to heal the sick and helped barren women to conceive.
“The church has lost a hero of faith, and the community, someone who brought families together,” Ndlovu said.
“Many homes stand today because of Prophet Nyathi’s prayers and many barren wombs gave birth to children because of his ministering.
“Many people got freed from oppressive spirits because of his prayers and is the reason why I call him a community builder.”
Chidobe Ward 2 councillor Shakani Mukoma echoed similar sentiments, saying the Victoria Falls community had lost a spiritual leader.
“The community has lost a community developer who was always ready to serve his community whenever a new one arose.”
Nyathi rose to fame after ‘healing’ well known politicians, government officials and general citizens who came from as far as Harare to camp at his homestead
Locally, he was popular in rural settlements such as Matetsi,Chikandakubi, Kachechete and Nemanhanga among other communities.
Nyathi is survived by seven children.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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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