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SDB News Online, 16 kiton Street, Masvingo (2026)

08/08/2026

VP Chiwenga Hails Bishop Mupandasekwa’s 25 Years of Service, Calls for Prayers for Priests

08 August 2026

By Tafara Pande

GOKOMERE, MASVINGO — Vice President Retired General Dr Constantino Dominic Guveya Nyikadzino Chiwenga has commended Rt Rev Bishop Raymond Mupandasekwa for 25 years of dedicated priestly service, describing his ministry as a lasting contribution to the spiritual and socio-economic development of communities.

The Vice President was speaking at Gokomere Mission in Masvingo during celebrations to mark Bishop Mupandasekwa’s 25th priestly anniversary, also known as his Silver Jubilee.

Vice President Chiwenga said Bishop Mupandasekwa had faithfully walked the path of shepherding the faithful, carrying the immense responsibility that comes with priesthood while remaining committed to serving God and humanity.

He called on Christians to continuously pray for priests, saying their vocation comes with significant responsibilities and challenges.

“We should pray for our priests because they carry a heavy load. It is a difficult task, but they were chosen by God for this work. God is the one who protects and guides them in their ministry,” Vice President Chiwenga said.

He said Bishop Mupandasekwa’s journey was particularly significant because he was born and raised in Masvingo, where his parents made a living through farming.

According to the Vice President, the Silver Jubilee was therefore not only a celebration of the Bishop’s priesthood, but also a celebration of the fruits of a life dedicated to service.

Vice President Chiwenga praised Bishop Mupandasekwa for transforming the lives of many people through holistic and visionary leadership, saying his ministry had left an indelible mark on the church and society.

He said the Bishop had demonstrated leadership that went beyond spiritual matters by fostering unity within the church and promoting initiatives that have contributed to meaningful community development.

“Your ministry has transformed the lives of many. You have demonstrated holistic and visionary leadership, shaping the spiritual lives of many people and leaving an indelible mark through your service,” he said.

The Vice President further applauded institutions and programmes associated with Bishop Mupandasekwa’s leadership for continuing to provide guidance and promote sustainable development.

He highlighted the Bishop’s contribution to education, agriculture and community development, noting that the revival of farms and other development projects had contributed to livelihoods and food security.

Vice President Chiwenga also praised the Bishop’s work in providing care and support to vulnerable members of society, particularly through initiatives such as St John, which he said had helped restore dignity and provide hope to people with wounded souls.

He said such initiatives demonstrated the important role played by faith-based organisations in complementing national development efforts.

“Across Zimbabwe, faith organisations are playing a critical role in shaping our nation. Government respects the church for its contribution to social cohesion and for helping shape our morals as a people,” Vice President Chiwenga said.

He said Government and the church had a shared responsibility to work together in strengthening communities and promoting values that contribute to national development.

The Vice President also used the occasion to challenge Zimbabwe’s young people to draw inspiration from Bishop Mupandasekwa’s life of service and commitment.

He urged youths to reject drug and substance abuse, warning that the scourge was destroying individuals, families and communities.

“Let us take the life of Bishop Mupandasekwa as a role model. Let us stop the use of drugs because they destroy our communities. Zimbabwe’s future lies in the hands of the youth,” he said.

Vice President Chiwenga said the Silver Jubilee should also be viewed as a celebration of collective effort, noting that the Bishop’s achievements had been made possible through collaboration among the church, communities and other stakeholders.

He urged the congregation to remain united, pray continually and seek God’s guidance in confronting the challenges facing society.

“Let us pray without ceasing and seek God’s guidance. May this Jubilee inspire us because God has carried us this far. Let us remain united,” he said.

As the celebrations drew to a close, Vice President Chiwenga congratulated Bishop Mupandasekwa for reaching the 25-year milestone and prayed for continued wisdom, peace, love and strength as he carries on with his ministry.

“Congratulations on your Silver Jubilee. May the Lord grant you peace, wisdom and love, and may God continue to bless all of you,” Vice President Chiwenga said.

Edited by Godfrey Gusha

08/08/2026

Thousands Gather at Gokomere Mission as Bishop Raymond Mupandasekwa Marks 25 Years of Priestly Service

08 August 2026

By Tafara Pande

GOKOMERE, Masvingo — Thousands of congregants, government officials, political leaders, traditional leaders and well-wishers have gathered at Gokomere Mission in Masvingo to commemorate the 25th Priestly Anniversary of Rt Rev Bishop Raymond Mupandasekwa, in a celebration marked by faith, fellowship and national recognition.

The milestone celebration has drawn a high-profile gathering, with Vice President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Retired General Dr Constantino Dominic Nyikadzino Chiwenga, among the distinguished guests attending the occasion.

Also present is Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Masvingo Province, Hon Ezra Ruvai Chadzamira, who is also the Member of Parliament for Masvingo West Constituency and a Central Committee member of ZANU PF.

The event has further attracted senior Government officials, with Permanent Secretary Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa represented by Director Coordination Mrs Rosemary Chingwe. Director Caleb Mahoya of Agritex is also among the officials attending the celebrations.

The gathering has brought together people from across different sectors of society, including ZANU PF Elders Council member Mr Dzikamai Mavhaire and Cde Mainah Mandava , other Government and party officials, traditional leaders, church representatives and thousands of congregants who have converged at the historic mission to honour Bishop Mupandasekwa's quarter-century of priestly service.

The 25-year milestone represents a significant chapter in Bishop Mupandasekwa's religious journey and is being celebrated as an opportunity to recognise his years of service to the Church and the wider community.

Gokomere Mission has been transformed into a hive of activity as congregants and guests participate in the celebrations, with messages of gratitude, fellowship and reflection taking centre stage.

The presence of national and provincial leadership has further elevated the significance of the occasion, underscoring the important role played by religious institutions and their leaders in Zimbabwean communities.

More updates from the celebrations will follow as the occasion unfolds.

Edited by Godfrey Gusha

07/08/2026

City of Masvingo Joins National Clean-Up Campaign at Provincial Heroes Acre

07 August 2026

By Tafara Pande

Masvingo - The City of Masvingo today joined communities across the country in the National Clean-Up Campaign held at the Masvingo Provincial Heroes Acre, reaffirming its commitment to environmental protection and the promotion of clean, safe and healthy surroundings.

The initiative attracted participation from various stakeholders, including Government ministries and departments, the business sector, schools, civic organisations and members of the community. Their collective involvement highlighted the importance of unity and shared responsibility in keeping public spaces clean while preserving the dignity and honour of the nation’s heroes.

During the exercise, participants cleaned the Provincial Heroes Acre and surrounding areas, promoting environmental responsibility, civic pride and responsible waste management. The campaign also underscored the need for individuals, communities and institutions to play an active role in maintaining clean environments.

The City of Masvingo has urged residents to adopt responsible waste disposal practices and to take part in future clean-up programmes as the city continues working towards building a cleaner, greener and healthier Masvingo.

Edited by Godfrey Gusha

07/08/2026

Zim hip-hop artist, Mukudzei Chitsama, popularly known as Holy Ten, has been remanded to August 27 as investigations continue into allegations that he r***d a 14-year-old girl.

07/08/2026

The Zimbabwe Sugarcane Industry Development Plan (2026–2035) has now been officially launched, marking the beginning of a new era for one of Zimbabwe's most strategic agricultural industries. The landmark blueprint is expected to drive investment, expand production, promote value addition, create thousands of jobs and strengthen the country's position as a regional agro-industrial leader. With Government, industry players and investors united behind the vision, the launch signals renewed momentum towards achieving Vision 2030 and transforming Masvingo Province into a key engine of Zimbabwe's economic growth.

07/08/2026

Masvingo Unveils Bold 10-Year Sugar Industry Blueprint as Hon. Chadzamira Declares Province 'Open for Business'

07 August 2026

By Tafara Pande

Chiredzi – Masvingo Province has taken a decisive step towards transforming Zimbabwe's agricultural economy following the official launch of the Zimbabwe Sugarcane Industry Development Plan (2026–2035), with the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Masvingo Province, Ezra Ruvai Chadzamira, declaring the province "Open for Business" before government leaders, investors, industry players and development partners gathered at Hippo Valley Country Club in Chiredzi.

Delivering his welcome remarks, Hon. Chadzamira described the launch as a historic milestone that will reshape Zimbabwe's sugar sector into a globally competitive, climate-resilient and investment-driven agro-industrial powerhouse over the next decade.

He welcomed delegates to Chiredzi, Zimbabwe's sugarcane heartland, saying the new development plan represents a transformative roadmap that will accelerate industrialisation, value addition and sustainable economic growth.

The Minister paid tribute to President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the Devolution Agenda, which he said has empowered provinces to become drivers of their own economic development.

Hon. Chadzamira noted that the visible benefits of devolution have positioned Masvingo Province on a firm development trajectory towards Vision 2030, adding that the province remains committed to economic transformation under the President's guiding philosophy of "Economics, Economics and Economics."

He also called for national unity, peace and stability, stressing that Zimbabwe's favourable investment climate is founded on the sacrifices made by liberation heroes and heroines. As the nation prepares to commemorate Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day, he said Zimbabweans must continue building on the peace dividend to achieve lasting socio-economic development.

Describing sugarcane as the backbone of Masvingo's economy, Hon. Chadzamira highlighted the industry's enormous contribution to employment and national production. He said the sugar industry is Zimbabwe's second-largest employer after Government, directly supporting more than 13,000 workers while sustaining thousands more livelihoods through downstream industries.

According to the Minister, the sugar value chain remains central to Masvingo Province's economic strategy and will play a pivotal role in achieving the province's ambitious target of becoming a US$8 billion economy by 2030, in line with Zimbabwe's Vision 2030 agenda.

Hon. Chadzamira said the province has already embarked on significant expansion programmes aimed at increasing sugarcane production through improved yields and expanded irrigation infrastructure.

Among the flagship initiatives is the large-scale development at the Development Trust of Zimbabwe>, where approximately 30,000 hectares are being opened for sugarcane and citrus production. The project is expected to strengthen milling capacity while boosting ethanol production, renewable energy generation and export competitiveness.

The Minister used the occasion to send a strong investment message, inviting both local and international investors to take advantage of opportunities within Masvingo's expanding sugar value chain.

He identified renewable energy as one of the province's priority investment areas, encouraging Independent Power Producers and private investors to establish solar farms and small hydroelectric power plants that can supply Zimbabwe's growing agro-processing industry.

However, Hon. Chadzamira emphasised that while foreign investment remains welcome, local communities, indigenous farmers, women and young people must remain the primary beneficiaries of economic growth, in line with Zimbabwe's national development philosophy of "Nyika Inovakwa, Inotongwa, Nevene Vayo."

He also appealed to communities and employers to embrace returning Zimbabweans by integrating them into local economic activities and ensuring their families have access to essential services, including education for their children.

Closing his remarks, the Minister thanked Cabinet Ministers, senior government officials, investors, out-growers and stakeholders for supporting Masvingo Province's development vision.

He expressed confidence that the Zimbabwe Sugarcane Industry Development Plan (2026–2035) will unlock unprecedented opportunities for investment, industrial growth, employment creation and rural development, positioning Zimbabwe's sugar industry as a key driver of national economic prosperity over the next decade.

Edited by Godfrey Gusha

07/08/2026

Thousands Gather for ZCC Golden Jubilee as Bishop Dr. Nehemiah's 50 Years of Leadership Are Celebrated

07 August 2026

By Tafara Pande

MBUNGO, Zimbabwe – A spirit of celebration, thanksgiving and unity has filled the Zimbabwe Christian Church (ZCC) as thousands of worshippers from across Zimbabwe and around the globe converge for the Golden Jubilee celebrations marking 50 years of His Grace Bishop Dr. Nehemiah Mutendi's dedicated service following the passing of the church's founding leader, Bambo Samere Mutendi.

The historic commemorations officially began today and will run until Sunday, 9 August, with a packed programme featuring worship services, thanksgiving celebrations, gospel music, testimonies, youth activities and messages of faith that reflect five decades of steadfast spiritual leadership.

Congregants from all corners of the world have travelled to be part of the milestone event, turning the venue into a vibrant gathering of believers united in worship and gratitude. The influx of local and international visitors has created an atmosphere of joy, fellowship and renewed commitment to the church's mission.

The Golden Jubilee celebrates Bishop Dr. Nehemiah's remarkable journey of faith, leadership and service since assuming responsibility after the passing of Bambo Samere. Over the past 50 years, he has guided the church through periods of growth and transformation while strengthening its spiritual foundation and expanding its reach beyond Zimbabwe's borders.

Throughout the celebrations, church members are reflecting on the legacy of sacrifice, humility and unwavering commitment that has characterised Bishop Dr. Nehemiah's ministry. Many have described the jubilee as more than a commemoration of years in office it is a celebration of a life devoted to serving God and uplifting communities through faith.

The programme is expected to attract even larger crowds over the weekend, with believers looking forward to the main celebrations on Sunday. Organisers say the event will continue to focus on worship, thanksgiving and reaffirming the church's vision for future generations.

Edited by Godfrey Gusha

07/08/2026

Top Government Leaders Converge in Chiredzi for Landmark Zimbabwe Sugarcane Industry Development Plan Launch

07 August 2026

By Tafara Pande

CHIREDZI – Senior Government officials today gathered at Hippo Valley Country Club and the adjoining exhibition area ahead of the official launch of the Zimbabwe Sugarcane Industry Development Plan, a landmark initiative expected to strengthen the country's sugar value chain, enhance agricultural productivity and accelerate rural economic development.

Leading the high-profile delegation was Hon. Ezra Ruvai Chadzamira, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Masvingo Province, who was joined by the Minister of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development who is the Guest of Honor, Dr. Anxious Jongwe Masuka; the Minister of Industry and Commerce, Hon. Mangaliso Ndlovu; and the Minister of Lands and Rural Development, Hon. Vangelis Haritatos.

Also in attendance were Senator Robson Mavhenyengwa, Hon. Darlington Chiwa, Member of Parliament for Chiredzi West, while Hon. Yeukai Simbanegavi and Hon. Lovemore Matuke were expected to join the programme.

Upon their arrival, the ministers and accompanying dignitaries toured a series of exhibition stands showcasing innovations, technologies and investment opportunities within Zimbabwe's sugar industry. Exhibitors presented advancements in sugarcane production, irrigation, mechanisation, value addition, environmental sustainability and community development, reflecting the sector's growing role in driving national economic transformation.

Hon. Chadzamira's attendance at the event highlighted his unwavering commitment to supporting key developmental programmes in Masvingo Province. Earlier in the day, the Minister had participated in the National First Friday Clean-Up Campaign in Triangle before immediately proceeding to Chiredzi to join fellow Cabinet Ministers for the strategic agriculture programme.

His participation demonstrated a demanding schedule centred on environmental stewardship and economic development, underscoring Government's integrated approach to sustainable growth.

The official launch of the Zimbabwe Sugarcane Industry Development Plan is expected to provide a strategic roadmap for expanding production, increasing exports, promoting value addition and improving livelihoods for thousands of farmers and communities dependent on the sugar industry.

The gathering also reaffirmed Government's commitment to modernising agriculture, strengthening food and nutrition security, creating employment opportunities and unlocking the full economic potential of the Lowveld in line with Zimbabwe's national development aspirations.

As anticipation builds ahead of the official launch, stakeholders remain optimistic that the new development plan will usher in a new era of innovation, investment and inclusive growth for Zimbabwe's sugar industry, further cementing Masvingo Province's position as the country's leading sugar-producing region.

Edited by Godfrey Gusha

07/08/2026

Hon. Chadzamira Rallies Triangle Community to Champion Clean Environment Ahead of Heroes and Defence Forces Commemorations

07 August 2026

By Tafara Pande

TRIANGLE, Chiredzi District – Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Masvingo Province, Hon. Ezra Ruvai Chadzamira, has called on Zimbabweans to embrace environmental stewardship through collective action, saying a clean environment is a shared national responsibility that reflects patriotism, civic pride and respect for future generations.

Speaking during the First Friday of the Month National Clean-Up Campaign held in Triangle today, Hon. Chadzamira commended the overwhelming participation of stakeholders, including the business community, Chiredzi Rural District Council, Government departments, non-governmental organisations and residents, who joined hands in cleaning the town in line with President 's National Clean-Up initiative.

"I would like to begin by honouring and thanking everyone who has dedicated their time to cleaning up our environment," said Hon. Chadzamira. "Your participation demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting our natural environment for the benefit of both present and future generations."

He said the Presidential proclamation designating the first Friday of every month as National Clean-Up Day continues to play a critical role in promoting a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable Zimbabwe.

The Minister highlighted that this month's clean-up campaign is being held under the theme, "Green Travelling and Eco-Friendly Gatherings: Honouring Our Heroes in a Clean Environment," a timely reminder as the country prepares to commemorate Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day.

Hon. Chadzamira urged travellers, transport operators, institutions and communities to promote responsible travel, maintain litter-free transport corridors and ensure that public gathering places, roadsides and national shrines remain clean and dignified.

"As we prepare for our national commemorations, every journey should contribute to cleaner roadsides, safer transport corridors, reduced veld fire risks and cleaner public spaces that honour our national heroes," he said.

The Minister stressed that environmental cleanliness extends beyond aesthetics, noting that clean surroundings improve public health, mental well-being and community pride. He said orderly public spaces encourage active citizenship while reducing pollution and preventing disease outbreaks.

Hon. Chadzamira called for stronger collaboration among local authorities, the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), industries, transport operators, businesses, faith-based organisations, sugar cane farmers, residents and the travelling public to keep bus termini, roads, shopping centres and other public spaces clean throughout the month.

He also encouraged the public to embrace waste reduction, recycling and responsible waste disposal as Zimbabwe advances towards its Zero Waste Declaration, describing waste as a valuable resource that can create employment opportunities through innovation and recycling initiatives.

According to the Minister, transforming waste into wealth will not only create jobs but also contribute to the achievement of Vision 2030, which seeks to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy while addressing social challenges such as drug and substance abuse.

Hon. Chadzamira concluded by urging citizens to make environmental cleanliness a daily habit rather than a monthly exercise.

"Together, let us embrace the transformative power of everyday cleaning and work towards a brighter, cleaner and healthier future for all," he said.

Edited by Godfrey Gusha

07/08/2026

Triangle Community Rallies Behind President Mnangagwa's First Friday Clean-Up Campaign

07 August 2026

By Tafara Pande

TRIANGLE, Masvingo Province – Residents of Triangle have begun gathering in large numbers for the First Friday National Clean-Up Campaign, a flagship environmental initiative spearheaded by His Excellency President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, aimed at promoting cleanliness, environmental sustainability, and public health across Zimbabwe.

The campaign has drawn enthusiastic participation from community members, local leaders, government officials, and stakeholders, all united by a shared commitment to creating a cleaner and healthier environment.

The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Masvingo Province, Hon. Ezra Chadzamira, is expected to join the programme, reaffirming the Government's commitment to environmental conservation and community-driven development initiatives in line with the national development agenda.

Also taking part in the clean-up exercise is the Permanent Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa and Deputy Director for Infrastructure, Mr. Clorence Matewe, who joined residents as they rolled up their sleeves to remove litter and improve the cleanliness of public spaces in Triangle.

The First Friday Clean-Up Campaign has become an important monthly national event, encouraging citizens from all walks of life to take responsibility for protecting their surroundings while promoting good sanitation practices and environmental stewardship.

The vibrant participation witnessed in Triangle reflects the growing public appreciation of the initiative and the community's determination to contribute towards a cleaner, greener, and healthier Zimbabwe.

More updates will follow as the event unfolds.

Edited by Godfrey Gusha

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