Community Talk, Gweru (2026)

20/12/2025

SIMON KUFANDADA SCOOPS SOCCER STAR OF THE YEAR AT MCM ESTATES NRSL AWARDS

From News Byte Zw

Simon Grey Kufandada capped a stellar 2025 season by clinching the prestigious Soccer Star of the Year award at the MCM Estates NRSL Annual Awards and 2026 Sponsorship Unveiling Ceremony, held to honour outstanding performers across the league.

Kufandada, who also finished as the league’s top goal scorer with 17 goals, walked away with the top accolade ahead of Emmanuel Zinyama, who was named first runner-up, and Trevor Tawanda Bhunu, who settled for second runner-up. The Soccer Star of the Year award came with a 300-square-metre stand at CHESA Wildlife Resort, underscoring the growing value being attached to excellence in the league.

The awards ceremony also recognised exceptional contributions by match officials, with Langton Makokowa being named Referee of the Year, Zondiwa Ngosana winning First Assistant of the Year, Nkanyiso Moyo scooping Second Assistant of the Year, and Stephen Amos being crowned Match Commissioner of the Year.

Paul Chimalizeni was voted Coach of the Year for his impressive leadership over the season and was also rewarded with a 300-square-metre CHESA Wildlife Resort stand. Wilson Brown, whose consistency between the posts stood out, was named Goalkeeper of the Year and received a similar prize.

Rising talent Tendai Kamwanda took home the Rookie of the Year award, while a strong list of Soccer Star finalists highlighted the depth of talent in the league. The finalists included Trevor Bhunu, Simon Kufandada, Tinashe Balakasi, MacClive Phiri, Ignatius Mavende, Wilson Brown, Emmanuel Zinyama, Brandon Mpofu, Marlon Maziriri, Ashwin Chihowa and Junior Meya.

The ceremony also marked the unveiling of the NRSL’s 2026 sponsorship package by MCM Estates, signalling continued corporate backing for the league and reinforcing confidence in the growth and professionalism of domestic football.

Organisers said the awards were meant to motivate players, officials and coaches, while setting higher standards ahead of the 2026 season.

20/11/2025

𝗠𝗜𝗟𝗔𝗡: 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗠𝗜𝗗𝗟𝗔𝗡𝗗𝗦’ 𝗠𝗢𝗦𝗧 𝗜𝗠𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗩𝗘 𝗟𝗜𝗙𝗘𝗦𝗧𝗬𝗟𝗘 𝗗𝗘𝗦𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗬𝗘𝗧🔥

Staff Writer

I finally discovered the place everyone in Gweru has been whispering about — and wow, Milan is truly on another level. This is not just a restaurant. It’s not just a club. It’s not just a spa. It’s an entire world built inside the Midlands, and entrepreneur Mohamad Taleb has absolutely nailed it.

From the moment you walk in, Milan feels like a mini city of its own — with a beauty spa, saunas, hair salon, sushi bar, children’s play centre, water fountains where people take pictures all day long, an executive-standard car wash, open spaces for lovers and families, and a restaurant serving some of the best food Gweru has ever tasted.

And here’s the wild part: families, kids, travellers, nightlife lovers — everyone fits into the same space comfortably and safely. The vibe is clean, classy and inclusive.

I spoke to some of the people behind the magic:

💆‍♀️ At the Spa, therapist Millicent told me:

“We’re fully booked most weekends! People love that they can now get international-standard wellness services right here in Gweru.”

🍣 At the Sushi Bar, chef Marshal Mataka said:

“We thought sushi would be niche, but people are coming from Harare and Kwekwe just to try it. This place has become a destination!”

And it really has. Tourists, travellers, even artists — Jah Prayzah and Musa Keys have performed here — are now making Milan their stopover. On Sundays, the complex even transforms into a church auditorium for local congregations.

But what impressed me most is Taleb’s vision.
He told me:

“I wanted to improve Gweru’s standards and give back to the Midlands. This is about excellence, not profit. We brought Harare’s standard to Gweru — and even better.”

Milan also empowers young entrepreneurs by renting out shops on a profit-sharing model and employing many locals directly and indirectly.

Today, Milan has become Gweru’s top spot — a home for everyone, all races, all ages, all backgrounds. Whether you want sushi, a spa treatment, family fun, a night out, or just a beautiful place to take pictures, this is the place.

Gweru’s City of Progress finally has a lifestyle hub that matches its name — and Milan is leading the way.

If you haven’t been yet… trust me, GO.

18/11/2025

This is a worthy cause — let’s rally behind it. Whether in cash or kind, your support can change someone’s life.

12/11/2025

EAT N LICK IN HOT SOUP: FAST FOOD GIANT ACCUSED OF CHEATING WORKERS AND SERVICE PROVIDERS

Once celebrated as one of Zimbabwe’s fastest-growing fast-food brands, Eat n' Lick.zw has again made headlines — this time for all the wrong reasons — as reports emerge that the company is failing to pay workers and service providers, with some claims dating back to May.

The chain, which has faced repeated accusations of poor management, unprofessional conduct, and “slave-driving” tactics, is said to owe thousands to disgruntled employees and suppliers who now describe the company’s leadership as “crooked, arrogant, and heartless.”

“The management at Eat n Lick is incompetent and extremely unfair. They use people and don’t even bother to pay — not even in instalments,” fumed one service provider who shared evidence of unpaid invoices.

At the centre of the storm are Munyaradzi Gwatidzo, a minority shareholder, and Dr. Alufisha, the company’s general manager, who sources allege have been spinning “one lie after another” while hiding behind religious façades.

Multiple attempts to get a comment from the company’s spokesperson were unsuccessful.

The controversy comes amid growing customer frustration over deteriorating food quality and service standards. Social media has been flooded with complaints, with the chain’s once-popular shawarma now among the most condemned items on the menu.

Several affected workers and contractors have hinted at legal action to recover their dues — a move that could further expose the cracks in what was once one of Zimbabwe’s most promising fast-food success stories.

11/11/2025

𝗙𝘂𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗳𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝗭𝗶𝗺 𝗮𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗳𝘁 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘀

By News Byte Zw

A fugitive Chinese national who fled Zimbabwe while facing theft charges is now accused of spearheading a smear campaign aimed at discrediting his former business associates and destabilising a joint mining venture valued in the millions.

Xu Zhixue, who was working for Podhill (Private) Limited, escaped to China earlier this year after he was released on summons by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Gweru.

He had been arrested for allegedly stealing nearly US$4,800 from the company’s Standard Chartered Bank account — an offence recorded under RRB 248/03/25 at ZRP Gweru Central.

Police sources confirmed that Xu vanished shortly after being granted temporary release, failing to appear in court as required.

His whereabouts remained unknown until recently, when his name resurfaced in what industry insiders are describing as a “well-orchestrated campaign” to damage the reputation of Podhill’s majority shareholder, Generous Resources (Pvt) Ltd, and its chairman.

Investigations indicate that the fallout between the chairman and Xu Zhixue — together with Xu’s uncle, Li Yajun — marked the beginning of a bitter feud that has spilled across borders.

Sources close to the matter allege that after leaving Zimbabwe, Xu and Li conspired to fabricate documents suggesting that Podhill had smuggled over 120 kilograms of gold, worth nearly US$10 million, out of the country.

The sensational allegations, which were published in sections of the local media, were reportedly based on AI-generated documents designed to appear authentic.

The purported “evidence” quickly circulated online, raising alarm within the mining industry and prompting a preliminary inquiry by law enforcement authorities — which has since confirmed there is no record of such a smuggling operation.

Podhill (Private) Limited is a joint venture between Generous Resources (Pvt) Ltd (which holds 60 percent of the shares) and Milhub (Pvt) Ltd, which owns 40 percent.

Milhub’s principal shareholders are Mohamad Taleb and Mohamad Karim, both Australian nationals with long-standing business interests in Zimbabwe.

Speaking to this publication, Mr Taleb expressed deep concern over the reputational and financial harm caused by the false allegations.

“I have worked and invested in Zimbabwe for over 20 years, contributing to local employment and development. It is heartbreaking to see malicious lies being spread by people who once benefited from this partnership,” said Taleb.

“The false story has not only disrupted operations but also shaken investor confidence. Our shareholders are innocent, yet we are now battling to repair the damage caused by a fugitive who is trying to settle old scores.”

The controversy has sent ripples through the mining community, with stakeholders warning that such false reports could deter foreign investment in Zimbabwe’s gold sector.

An official close to the Ministry of Mines, speaking on condition of anonymity, said authorities are aware of the misinformation campaign and are working with law enforcement counterparts to track Xu Zhixue’s activities abroad.

“This is a clear case of a disgruntled individual attempting to weaponize fake information. We are treating the matter seriously because it tarnishes the image of Zimbabwe’s mining sector,” the official said.

Meanwhile, police have maintained that Xu Zhixue remains a wanted person in connection with the theft case and could face further charges related to cyber defamation and the dissemination of falsified information.

05/11/2025

Private Doctors to Honour Health Heroes at Inaugural National Awards

Staff Reporter

Zimbabwe’s private medical practitioners have launched the inaugural National Medical and Health Excellence Awards (NMHEA), a landmark event aimed at recognising outstanding individuals and organisations in the country’s health sector.

The awards, organised by the Medical and Dental Private Practitioners of Zimbabwe Association (MDPPZA) led by Professor Johannes Marisa, will be held on November 28, 2025, at the Newlands Country Club in Harare under the theme “Celebrating Champions in Healthcare Delivery.”

The NMHEA will bring together medical professionals, policymakers, innovators, corporate leaders, and development partners in a ceremony designed to honour excellence, promote ethical standards, and strengthen collaboration within the health sector.

Speaking on the sidelines of the event’s concept launch, Prof Marisa said the initiative was born out of a desire to restore pride, professionalism, and motivation among healthcare providers across the country.

“Our healthcare system has heroes who go the extra mile every day, often unnoticed. This event is about celebrating those who uphold the highest standards of medical excellence and compassion,” he said.

The awards will feature several categories including Practitioner of the Year, Excellence in Patient Care, Community Service, Healthcare Innovation, Public Health Advocacy, and a Lifetime Achievement Award, among others. Media houses, pharmaceutical companies, and medical aid societies will also be recognised for their contributions to healthcare delivery.

The event will be jointly hosted by MDPPZA and Newsday Zimbabwe, with an exhibition and networking session preceding the awards ceremony. According to the organisers, the platform will also encourage dialogue, knowledge exchange, and partnership building between the medical and corporate sectors.

Sponsorship opportunities have been opened for corporates and institutions, with organisers promising extensive brand visibility through media coverage, online promotion, and post-event exposure lasting up to a year.

Prof Marisa said the NMHEA would become an annual fixture on the national calendar, helping to raise morale within the medical community while encouraging innovation and ethical practice.

“We want to build a culture of excellence that uplifts the image of our profession and inspires confidence in healthcare delivery across Zimbabwe,” he said.

The event is expected to attract wide participation from across the country’s health and business communities, marking a new era of recognition for Zimbabwe’s medical professionals.

01/11/2025

TARGETED PERSECUTION OR JUSTICE?
..PROPHET MAGAYA’S ARREST STIRS OUTRAGE AHEAD OF NIGHT OF TURN AROUND‼️‼️

A dramatic new chapter has unfolded in what many are calling a relentless campaign of persecution against Prophet Walter Magaya, after the Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries leader was arrested early Saturday morning in Harare — barely days before his much-anticipated Night of Turn Around.

The timing has ignited anger and disbelief among his followers, who see the move as a deliberate attempt to frustrate the prophet’s fasting and spiritual preparations for one of the ministry’s biggest events of the year.

Magaya, known for his vast humanitarian work and record of drawing tens of thousands to his services, was reportedly taken by a specialised police team over unspecified allegations of r**e and fraud — charges that supporters say have become a recycled tool to smear and silence him each time he rises to prominence.

Social media was ablaze within hours of the arrest, with loyal congregants describing it as a “coordinated spiritual assault sponsored to derail God’s work.”

Many insisted the prophet is being punished not for wrongdoing, but for his growing influence and the hope he inspires in a restless nation.

“Each time God is about to move mightily through His servant, the enemy strikes,” one follower posted. “But no weapon formed against the Prophet shall prosper.”

As his followers continue in prayer and fasting, the unfolding drama has deepened questions about whether the celebrated preacher is facing justice — or enduring yet another chapter of targeted persecution aimed at breaking his spirit ahead of a defining spiritual gathering.

Credit: News Byte Zw

24/10/2025

FROM DESPAIR TO DELIVERANCE: MAN OF GOD TRANSFORMS ANTHONY TOLE’S LIFE

Anthony Tole once lived in deep poverty — isolated, broken, and surrounded by heaps of garbage at his home. His life was in total disarray.

But everything changed when the Spirit of the Lord directed the Man of God Prophet Walter Magaya to him. After praying for Mr. Tole, the Man of God restored his dignity and even built him a new home.

Right now, the Man of God is at the Prayer Mountain, fasting and interceding.

Send your prayer requests to +263 78 332 6523 and he will pray for you.

17/10/2025

AMBASSADOR MUZAVAZI STUNS IN ICONIC “ZIM BLAZER” AT ZANU PF CONFERENCE

Ambassador Muzavazi turns heads in the iconic “Zim Blazer” — a showstopper stealing the spotlight and sparking national pride. 🇿🇼

The bold design is setting trends and making waves at the 22nd ZANU PF Annual People’s Conference.

14/10/2025

Zimbabwe seam bowler Francesca Chipare is now married. Chipare wedded over the past weekend.

Chipare made headlines when she bowled the famous Super Over that helped Zimbabwe land the first ever cricket gold at an African Games.

14/10/2025

Could this be the lucky man?

Musician Feli Nandi spotted with a mystery man 👀.

14/10/2025

This young fella, Evan, travelled to Kwekwe last weekend and returned home to Bulawayo with some gold of his own — clinching the Batsman of the Tournament award at the Goldridge (pun intended) Primary Festival.

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