George Maponga, Masvingo Bureau
The Government has re-affirmed its commitment to pay civil servants their 2016 bonuses, saying all its workers will receive their 13th cheque by next month.

Minister Prisca Mupfumira

Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Prisca Mupfumira yesterday said Government would not disappoint the civil servants.

Government staggered payment of 2016 bonuses because of resource challenges, but most of the civil servants have already been paid.

Speaking during the commemoration of the Africa Public Service Day in Masvingo yesterday, Minister Mupfumira said bonuses would be paid without fail.

‘’I want to assure you that Government will abide by the dates that were announced for the payment of bonuses and by August this year all the civil servants would have been paid their dues,” she said.

“The money is definitely coming. The payments are being staggered, but the money is definitely coming through.’’

Minister Mupfumira applauded the civil servants for working hard for the success of Command Agriculture.

The country expects over four million tonnes of grain this season.

President Mugabe last week described Command Agriculture as a “beautiful programme”.

‘’The Command Agriculture programme was also a huge success because of you,” said Minister Mupfumira. “The foot soldiers were greatly committed to its fruition. It is through your hard work and unity that the drought mitigation strategy has been a success.’’

Minister Mupfumira said the Government was committed to improving conditions of service for its workers, as evidenced by the creation of the National Building Society (NBS).

The bank is owned by the National Social Security Authority and has a number of facilities aimed at cushioning civil servants from the economic  challenges.

Minister Mupfumira said the NBS Masvingo branch will open its doors to the public before year end.

“This year we have NSSA and its subsidiary NBS,” she said. “The building society seeks to promote social security through decent and affordable housing, access to a cocktail of loans and other financially inclusive packages delivered in a transparent and efficient manner.

“NBS is here in full force to open your accounts which will be a gateway to housing loans, mortgages and other loans.’’

In his address at the meeting, Public Service Commission chairperson Dr Mariyawanda Nzuwah urged civil servants to remain resilient in the face of challenges.

‘’We must surely thank President Mugabe for making sure civil servants were given their 2016 bonuses after he personally ordered that the money be paid,” he said.

“Civil servants must continue to work hard even in the face of challenges so that our country develops.’’

Dr Nzuwah dissuaded civil servants from “continously” demanding a pay rise.

‘’This issue of civil servants pushing for salary increment has its own fair share of problems because the moment a pay increment for Government workers is announced, everything else also goes up, from rentals to transport fares, so we must always put that in mind,” he said.

Dr Nzuwah said it was wise for Government workers to negotiate for non-monetary incentives.

The Africa Public Service Day is commemorated on June 23.

President Alpha Conde

Nduduzo Tshuma in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
THE 29th Ordinary Session of the African Union Heads of State and Government kicked off here yesterday with calls for the continent to provide an enabling environment for the development of the youths who form the majority in Africa.

In his inaugural address as AU chairperson, Guinea President Professor Alpha Conde, said failure to invest in the youth would have a negative impact on the development of Africa.

Prof Conde’s sentiments dovetail with President Mugabe’s calls for the emancipation of the youth through involvement in all sectors of the economy.

President Mugabe, who is among the leaders attending the summit, has a running youth interface programme where he is touring the country’s 10 provinces to listen and attend to the needs of the youth.

Themed “Harnessing the demographic dividend through investments in the youth,” the two-day summit ends today.

Said Prof Conde, “Aware of the importance of human capital, the AU has decided to harness the African youth, to find ways and means of developing the youth which constitute 70 percent of the total population.

“The holistic management of the challenges faced by the youth call on us to find alternatives to build economies that are resilient and capable of ensuring the space for the youth in our continent.”

Prof Conde said such an approach would reassure the determination of the youth to convince them that Africa is the best place for them and a source of self-sustenance.

He said there was a need to inculcate a sense of duty and responsibility in the youth by involving them in decision making processes.

Prof Conde said Africa needed an educated and developed youth that would unleash its creative genius towards nation building and development, peace and stability.

He emphasised the need to create a conducive environment for the development of the youth through the provision of among other things, adequate training and health facilities, for the transformation of systems and methods of government through improved and better awareness of the continent’s developmental needs.

“It is imperative on us African leaders that if we don’t invest in the youth, we would have failed our duty and compromised dangerously the future of our youth,” said Prof Conde.

“We would have condemned them to unemployment and immigration to become parasites and beggars.”

Prof Conde hailed efforts towards the self-financing and reform of the AU saying the continental body would not only earn independence and respect but will also be able to equally contribute towards the running of world affairs.

He said Africa has taken its destiny into its own hands and will emerge a stronger and peaceful destination that will attract investment from other partners.
Earlier addressing the Summit, the chairperson of the AU Commission, Mr Faki Mahamat, said the continental body was committed to strengthening peace and security efforts by encouraging political solutions in violence afflicted regions. He urged cooperation between governments, civil society and the private sector in the mitigation of the scourge of drought, famine and terrorism in some parts of the continent.

United Nations Deputy Secretary General Amina Mohammed said investing in the youth will contribute towards a peaceful and prosperous future for Africa.

She commended African leaders for their commitment to self-reliance as reflected in their decision to fund 25 percent of the AU’s peace and support operations by 2020.

President of the State of Palestine who is also the chairperson of the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO), Mahmoud Abbas, paid tribute to the AU for supporting his country’s cause.

He also hailed the AU’s development programmes saying they would turn around the fortunes of the African continent.

The Summit is being attended by presidents Paul Kagame (Rwanda), Idris Derby (Chad), Sirleaf Johnson (Liberia) and Hary Rajaoniampianina (Madagascar) among others.

Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) Commander Lieutenant-General Philip Valerio Sibanda lays a wreath on the coffin of the late Lt-Colonel Eddie Sigoge Mlotshwa at Imbizo Barracks yesterday

Nqobile Tshili, Chronicle Correspondent
Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) Commander Lieutenant-General Philip Valerio Sibanda has said the army will defend the country’s sovereignty at all costs, noting that some citizens were taking for granted the sacrifices made in the attainment of independence.

Speaking at a funeral military parade to honour the late Lieutenant Colonel Eddie Sigoge Mlotshwa at Imbizo Barracks yesterday, Lt Gen Sibanda said the military will not stand aside when the country’s independence is being denigrated.

He said the country’s citizens should emulate the late Lt-Col Sigoge whose commitment to the country cannot be questioned.

“Throughout his life, the late Lieutenant Colonel was dedicated to the preservation of the national sovereignty of his motherland. As we pay our last respects to Lt Col Sigoge, we must not forget the sacrifices he and other heroes and heroines made for the freedom of our motherland Zimbabwe.

“This is something which is being taken for granted by some of the country’s citizens. We must defend Zimbabwe’s independence and sovereignty at all  costs. We must uphold the principles and values that the late Lieutenant Colonel has left,” said Lt Gen Sibanda.

The army gave Lt-Col Mlotshwa a 21-gun military salute in preparation for his cremation to be conducted at Glen Forest in Harare on Wednesday.

His remains will be disposed off in the Zambezi valley in fulfilment of his wish.

Lt-Gen Sibanda chronicled Lt-Col Sigoge’s exploits in the war of liberation, detailing his patriotism before and after independence.

“In 1969, the late Lieutenant Colonel abandoned education for the armed struggle after he got fed up with the brutality and injustice meted out to the black majority back home by white colonial oppressors of the then Southern Rhodesia now Zimbabwe,” said Lt-Gen Sibanda.

“Thus the spirit of nationalism and the urge to correct the colonial injustices influenced him to become a freedom fighter.”

He said Lt-Col Mlotshwa became one of the elite Zipra commanders who trained most freedom fighters.

“Important to note, is that the late freedom fighter played a pivotal role which saw many comrades passing through his hands as an instructor. His resilience and enthusiasm during times of hardships and turbulence of the revolution greatly motivated his fellow comrades and kept their minds focused on the liberation cause,” he said.

Lt-Gel Sibanda said at the attainment of independence Lt-Col Mlotshwa was attested into the ZNA where he served until he was discharged.

“In 1981 he was posted to the 44 Infantry Battalion in Gutu as the Battalion Commander. From 22 Infantry Battalion he was posted to 52 Infantry Battalion in Nyanga. In 1984 he was posted to the School of Infantry at Llewellyn Barracks (now Imbizo) as the commandant where he served until his exit from the organisation in the mid 1980s,” said Lt-Gen Sibanda.

He said Lt-Col Mlotshwa’s death was a huge loss for the country and his family.

In an interview on the sidelines of the parade, Welfare Services for War Veterans, War Collaborators, Former Political Detainees and Restrictees Minister Retired Col Tshinga Dube said Bulawayo province had requested that Lt-Col Mlotshwa be conferred with a national hero status but the Zanu-PF Politburo did not approve the request.

“He was a member of the Zipra High Command meaning he was a very senior person. Even today most of the commanders are here to pay their last respects to him. Although he was no longer in the army the military funeral parade and salute is a very important honour befitting him,” said Rtd Col Dube.

Retired Brigadier-General Abel Mazinyane and Zapu president Dumiso Dabengwa were among ex-Zipra commanders who paid tribute to Lt-Col Mlotshwa.

Rtd Col Mlotshwa died last week on Sunday at Mater Dei Hospital in Bulawayo. — @nqotshili

Professor Jonathan Moyo

Harare Bureau
Higher and Tertiary Education, Science and Technology Development Minister Professor Jonathan Moyo must be dismissed from Zanu-PF and Government for his unbecoming behaviour, the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association said yesterday.

The ZNLWVA urged President Mugabe to take the action against Prof Moyo.

Addressing journalists in Harare yesterday, ZNLWVA chairman Mr Christopher Mutsvangwa said Prof Moyo had “run amok by shredding every rule book in the country” when he attacked the characters of a Vice President (Emmerson Mnangagwa) and Cabinet ministers.

“We cannot have that kind of traitor because of his background, maverick because of his behaviour, an anti-government programme minister because he denounces Command Agriculture even when the President tries to caution him, he still defies the President,” he said.

“We cannot continue to have such a kind of man in the midst of Zimbabwe’s body politic.

“We are saying to the President enough is enough. Jonathan Moyo is literally in a brawl. He behaves like a mad dog in a manger.”

Mr Mutsvangwa said Prof Moyo was obsessed with succession.

“He is angry that this revival of the economy is creating a closing window where the agenda for economic abortion will not succeed,” he said.

“The only thing that Jonathan and his group talk about is succession, but everybody else in the country is concerned about the degradation of the economy.”

Prof Moyo has been attacking Command Agriculture on social media dismissing it as “VP Mnangagwa’s Ugly-Culture”.

“We are saying enough is enough, particularly when he starts scolding our generals,” he said.

“This is an army which we value so much. Every Zimbabwean family lost someone to make the Zimbabwean army be what it is today.

“He denounces (Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, General Constantino Guvheya) Chiwenga who went to war as a young man, probably at 14 years and rose to become the top general in all the battles of that war.”

Mr Mutsvangwa dismissed claims that the ZNLWVA was organising demonstrations against Welfare Services for War Veterans, War Collaborators, Former Political Detainees and Restrictees Minister Retired Colonel Tshinga Dube

He said those organising the demonstrations were errant job seekers with a dirty history.

Auditor-General Mrs Mildred Chiri

Auxilia Katongomara, Chronicle Reporter
Bulawayo City Council could be defrauding residents registering to be on the housing waiting list as it did not retain receipts for the home seekers, the Auditor General has said.

In her latest report for 2012, Auditor General, Mrs Mildred Chiri said there was a risk of fraud at the local authority due to poor receipting.

“The council did not maintain a waiting list for the sale of stands. In addition, the Council did not retain a copy of the receipt or the receipt number as proof of payment of the $16 deposit for one to be on the waiting list. There were instances identified where stamps on the application form that represent proof of payment were manually adjusted,” reads the report.

Mrs Chiri said there was risk of financial fraud on sale of stands and recommended that the Council maintain an up to date waiting list.

“Receipt numbers should be recorded on the applicant’s forms and the Council should retain a copy of the receipt,” recommended the AG.

Responding to the findings, management said their IT section would be working on a system to maintain the register of people on the waiting list that incorporates registry section and issues raised by auditors.

The city’s housing waiting list stands at 115 000 and residents pay an annual renewal fee of $16.

The Auditor General once again raised the red flag on the council’s asset register after the previous audit showed that it was in shambles.

In the latest report, Mrs Chiri said there was no differentiation between minor and major assets posing a danger that capital assets may be misappropriated if expensed as minor assets.

“City of Bulawayo accounts for fixed asset additions based on whether they are minor or major assets. There was no documented policy to give clarity on what constitutes a minor and major asset,” read the report.

The Auditor General recommended that a formal policy on what constitutes a minor and a major asset be documented to promote uniformity and consistency in the accounting for assets.

She noted that the city could have lost $7 million in meter reading adjustments after residents complained.

Mrs Chiri said there were instances where meter readings were used resulting in complaints due to overcharges.

She said the use of estimates was caused by a reduced number of Council meter readers.

“This led to significant subsequent adjustment of meter readings and the revenue figure. Total adjustments for the year ended December 31, 2012 amounted to a reduction in revenue of $15, 952, 046 (2011: 22 766 591) from the initial estimation to the actual,” read the report.

In response to her findings, management said by then council only had eight meter readers which saw it prioritising the central business district and industrial areas.

Management said the problem was alleviated by the hiring of more meter readers to bring the number to between 35 and 40 in 2013 resulting in reduction of the number of estimates that are done on residents’ bills.

Last month, the Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee said it had noted that Bulawayo City Council’s books are in shambles, raising the risk of embezzlement of funds and corruption.

The Committee, in a report presented in Parliament said it had noted that Bulawayo City Council does not have an asset register hence it was difficult to establish what the municipality was getting from rentals.

The committee said the absence of an asset register also makes it difficult to establish what type of buildings the city has and what income was being derived from such properties.

The committee’s chairperson, Ms Paurina Mpariwa told Parliament that her committee concluded that there is a culture of non-performance embedded in the local authority since there are no consequences for non-performing. — @AuxiliaK

Mr Felix Dube and wife at their wedding

Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, Plumtree Correspondent
A MINISTRY of Primary and Secondary Education official has dragged his visually impaired wife to court accusing her of beating him up and harassing him emotionally.

Mr Felix Dube, an accountant at the Bulilima District education office, begged a court to grant him a protection order against his wife, Mrs Vusile Dube.

He alleged she also habitually insulted him in the presence of their children.

“My wife has assaulted me on several occasions. At one time she used my phone to assault me. She once gained entry into my car with the assistance of her relative and took my valuables.

“She also shouts at me using vulgar words in the presence of our minor children. She has also locked me out of the house several times forcing me to sleep outside in my car and ripped up my clothes. I still love my wife but I beg the court to grant me a protection order as I fear for my life. She is tormenting me,” said Mr Dube.

Mr Dube told the court that his wife had on several occasions attempted to commit suicide as part of her efforts to disturb his emotions.

In her response Mrs Dube submitted an opposing affidavit applying for a protection order that was binding to both of them.

She denied assaulting or insulting her husband. She said he was taking advantage of her disability and health condition to assault her.

“My husband is the one taking advantage of my disability to assault me knowing that there is nothing I can do to defend myself. I have never disturbed his peace, taken his valuables or tore his clothes.

“In fact he has on several occasions confiscated my valuables. At one time he forcefully took my bank cards and refused to release them when I wanted to pay my medical bills,” she said.

Mrs Dube said she once filed a domestic abuse report against her husband but he pleaded with her to drop the charges and promised to change his behaviour.

She said her husband was manufacturing allegations against her to get rid of her.

Mrs Dube said her husband wanted her to move out of their home in order to accommodate other women.

Plumtree magistrate, Mr Joshua Mawere who presided over the matter granted a protection order that is binding on Mr Dube and his wife

@DubeMatutu

Auxilia Katongomara, Chronicle Reporter
JEHOVAH’S Witnesses are set to gather for annual regional conventions in Bulawayo starting this week.

Mr Cohen Chikwira, a Jehovah’s Witness spokesperson, said the regional conventions for Bulawayo begin on Friday at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair under the theme “Don’t Give Up.”

“Jehovah’s Witnesses in Zimbabwe are organising 57 conventions in seven languages. In Bulawayo, the first convention will be held from July 7 to 9 at ZITF Hall number 3 in Ndebele followed by a Shona convention from July 28 to 30 at the same venue.

From August 4 to 6 there will be an English convention at the Amphitheatre,” said Mr Chikwira.

He said admission to each event will be free and the conventions begin at 9:20AM each day.

Mr Chikwira said the programme is divided into 52 parts and will be presented in a variety of formats, including brief discourses, interviews, and short videos.

@AuxiliaK

Dr Lazarus Dokora

Oliver Kazunga, Senior Reporter
THE Government needs an estimated $18,5 million to fund the schools feeding programme up to the end of next term, Primary and Secondary Education Minister Dr Lazarus Dokora has said.

The schools feeding initiative was introduced by Government in May last year following a poor harvest but the Government has said the feeding programme is now a permanent feature in schools to enable pupils from poor families to concentrate on their education.

Responding to questions in Parliament last week, Dr Dokora said in collaboration with other Government ministries, they had scaled-up the programme to cover all primary school pupils.

“The calculation of the component of grain requirement to the end of next term in December is about $18.5 million. Communites are expected to complement Government by providing relish for the feeding programme,” he said.

Dr Dokora said both urban and rural primary schools were covered by the programme.

“When we began schools feeding at the infant level last year, the urban sector was excluded except where there was confirmed hardships. For instance, in the areas in Harare, I can cite the areas in Epworth. Those were identified under the Zimbabwe Vulnerability Assessment Committee (Zimvac) as requiring this kind of measure,” he said.

Dr Dokora said starting from May next year, Government expects to introduce the feeding scheme at day secondary schools.

@okazunga

Bongani Ndlovu/Nqobile Tshili, Chronicle Correspondents
ZIMPAPERS’ Live streaming of the Bulawayo Arts Awards attracted a record 130 000 views in four hours as the media group moves to bolster its market share in the digital media sphere.

The awards were live streamed on The Chronicle website and the publication’s Facebook page Chronicle Zimbabwe last Friday night, for an uninterrupted four hour period.

While 130 000 reached the live stream, 30 000 watched it for the whole period.

Zimpapers acting head of digital services Mr Godfrey Koti said the live streaming is in line with the company’s policy to have a global reach.

Mr Koti, who also doubled up as a presenter during the awards ceremony, said the future of the company is in its ability to penetrate the social media market and the awards set a good target for Zimpapers’ digital thrust.

“The attention to social media is also recognition of trends that are ongoing in the world. So our focus is to keep engaging in delivering content to all the people in all parts of the world. Some of the viewers were as far away as America, the United Kingdom and South Africa among other countries,” he said.

Mr Koti said through live streaming, Zimbabweans abroad were able to get real time content on developments in the country.

“We were overwhelmed by the response. A reach of 130 000 people on a four hour broadcast is not a small achievement. We had plans of having people watching but we did not expect so many people to follow and let alone engage and tell us what they think and be part of the show,” he said.

The Bulawayo digital team consisting of Online Editor Stanford Chiwanga, Social Media Editor Vusumuzi Dube and Online News Editor Temba Dube were also credited for their role in producing the content.

Zimpapers General Manager for Digital and Publishing Mr Marks Shayamano said digital content was an in thing and the company would continue providing its customers media products they want.

“The media industry is now going digital and as a company we don’t need to be caught napping. Zimpapers has been a trendsetter in the media and live streaming the awards gave us an opportunity to prove to our potential clients that we strive to provide a world class service,” he said.

Mr Shayamano said the future of revenue generation in the media sector is through digital content.

Readers commended The Chronicle for live streaming the awards.

Becky Allen: “Didn’t expect to watch such a wonderful Show from my hometown…… Siyabonga Zimpapers digital and Ingwebu. And the organisers. You just ……..up……There !!!!”

Herbert Sibanda: “Thanks The Chronicle. Job well-done. Okuhle kuyabukwa.”

Noma Nkwali Gagisa: “Siyabonga watched from Germany picture and sound quality all on point.”

Evidence Tee: “Bulawayo rocks, the people have spoken, Chronicle has blessed us, all we want now is our own TV station to showcase our talent.”

Nqobindabayokufa Siwela: “Okuhle kuyabukwa I have got No words but to say thank u Chronicle and Metro FM indid wht u talk it’s what u do so let’s walk the talk and talk the walk well done bathi khuluma usenza do not just talk you have shown people that Yes it can be done well done guys.”

Thulisile Sibanda based in Namibia said the awards made her homesick.

Mrs Marjorie Munyonga

Pamela Shumba, Senior Reporter
CONSTRUCTION work at the Gwayi-Shangani Dam in Matabeleland North Province resumed on Monday following the release of $5 million towards the project by Treasury.

Zimbabwe National Water Authority (Zinwa) corporate communications and marketing manager Mrs Marjorie Munyonga yesterday said the contractor was back on site while Zinwa had also deployed its personnel to oversee the resumption of the project.

“China Water and Electric Corporation, the Gwayi-Shangani contractor is back on site and already crushing stones for concrete works. The contractor is also expected to soon clear rubble from the river bed as well as rehabilitate access roads to the project site among other works.

“Zinwa has also moved in the requisite personnel to oversee the resumption of work at the project,” said Mrs Munyonga in a statement.

She said more resources would be availed as the project moves on adding that its completion will bring socio-economic transformation to the surrounding communities.

“On completion, the dam, which is on the confluence of Gwayi and Shangani Rivers, is expected to bring about a lot of socio-economic transformation for surrounding communities and other parts of the drought prone Matabeleland North Province through the supply of irrigation water.

“The dam will also have the capacity to generate six mega-watts of electricity. The resumption of work at the dam and its subsequent completion are among the key benchmarks Government set for the Infrastructure and Utilities Cluster under the Zimbabwe Agenda for Sustainable Socio-Economic Transformation (Zim-Asset),” Mrs Munyonga said.

Last month, Finance and Economic Development Minister Patrick Chinamasa said Government had secured $37 million to clear arrears owed to the contractor and lay the ground for the beginning of the long-awaited project.

He said Government had set aside $17 million owed to the contractor and $20 million to resume the project adding that the completion of the Tokwe-Mukosi Dam in Masvingo paved way for the prioritisation of the Gwayi-Shangani Dam, which is a major component of the National Matabeleland Zambezi Water Project (NMZWP).

The resumption of work at the dam site follows the suspension of work by the contractor in 2013 due to lack of funding.

Gwayi-Shangani, which will be Zimbabwe’s third largest water reservoir after Tokwe-Mukosi and Lake Mutirikwi, is a major component of the National Matabeleland Zambezi Water Project which is considered the long term solution for Matabeleland’s water challenges.

The National Matabeleland Zambezi Water Project consists of the dam and a pipeline to Bulawayo with an envisaged green belt being established on either side of the pipeline.

With a holding capacity of 635 million cubic metres of water, Gwayi- Shangani dam will be the largest water body in Matabeleland North Province.

@pamelashumba1

Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education Professor Jonathan Moyo (right) stresses a point to Vice President Mphoko while Ministers Dr Ignatius Chombo and Saviour Kasukuwere look on during a tour of temporary classrooms for children affected by floods at Sipepa in Tsholotsho on Monday

Pamela Shumba, Senior Reporter
VICE President Phelekezela Mphoko on Monday commissioned the new settlement scheme in Tsholotsho for more than 300 families who were relocated after being displaced by floods early this year.

The floods destroyed infrastructure, roads, bridges and livestock and left hundreds of people homeless in most parts of the country with Tsholotsho being the most affected.

The 317 households had been staying at a temporary camp at Sipepa Hospital before being allocated stands at Tshino and Saudweni villages.

VP Mphoko also officiated at a graduation ceremony for 152 youths who completed national youth service training and launched an identification and registration programme to assist thousands of villagers in the district who do not have identity particulars.

He called on all ministries, departments and partners to be involved in the recovery plan for the people of Tsholotsho.

“Now that the affected villagers have been moved from Sipepa Camp and allocated family stands, this is a clarion call for us to work together and the local government ministry to accelerate the provision of decent accommodation to the villagers before the start of another rainy season.

“I’m glad that the ministry has since mobilised its technical staff in Matabeleland North Province and as they carry out this task they must not forget that a skills survey done here in Tsholotsho indicates that there are also skilled builders who can be hired to construct resilient infrastructure,” said VP Mphoko.

He said the Government will prioritise the construction of a school at the new settlement and provision of clean water and sanitation facilities.

“The provision of clean potable water remains a priority. The Government is already working with DDF to drill 12 boreholes whose water will eventually be reticulated to various corners of the settlement including our schools and clinics.

“I’m glad that the water, sanitation and hygiene at Tshino Primary School is in order notwithstanding that enrolment levels have increased from 500 to 900 pupils,” said VP Mphoko.

He expressed concern over the slow progress in the opening of access roads within the settlement due to the Kalahari sands in the area and urged officials on the ground to be resilient.

VP Mphoko urged Professor Jonathan Moyo, the local MP, other ministers and the CPU officials to continue working together to end the suffering of the people.

The Minister of Local Government, Public Works and National Housing, Cde Saviour Kasukuwere said Government was also focusing on flood victims in other areas such as Mberengwa, Bikita, Mashonaland East and Matabeleland South provinces.

He added that Government was grateful for the assistance received from China, Japan, Algeria, Namibia, Botswana and various partners in the country.

The villagers are housed in tents at their stands with each family expected to have a well built toilet, three roomed house, granary and kitchen.

A total of 164 toilet pits have been dug, lined up and built up to slab level.

The event was attended by Tsholotsho North MP, who is also Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Science and Technology Development, Prof Moyo, Home Affairs Minister Cde Ignatius Chombo and his deputy Cde Obedingwa Mguni, Cde Kasukuwere, the Minister of Youth, indigenisation and Economic Empowerment Cde Patrick Zhuwao, the Registrar General Mr Tobaiwa Mudede, traditional leaders and senior officials from different departments.

@pamelashumba1

Whinsley Masara, Chronicle Reporter
A MAN man from Inyathi in Bubi District is battling for life in the Intensive Care Unit at Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo following an assault by four patrons at a local bar in a dispute over 25 cents.

Mr Tinashe Chikwira (26) sustained serious injuries when the four stoned and punched him on Tuesday last week.

The vicious attack occurred at around 6PM at Mahamba Business Centre.

Mr Chikwira was first taken to Inyathi Hospital before being transferred to Mpilo Central Hospital where his condition is said to be critical.

His rivals have been arrested and charged with attempted murder and will appear in court soon.

Foreman Mangena (42) Of Khumakani Area, Village 3 Badala, Luckson Ngwenya (32) of Zebron Ngwenya’s Homestead, Maqaqeni Area, Khulekani Nkomo, (32) of Std 26, 6th Ave, Cooperative Inyathi and Bongani Ngwenya (25) of Zebron Ngwenya’s Homestead in Maqaqeni Area allegedly lost their tempers when Mr Chikwira began arguing with a bar lady over 25c.

A patron, Mr Mncedisi Moyo, said a misunderstanding broke out between Chikwira and the bar attendant, Miss Lorraine Mpofu (25) over 25 cents inside Zakheyo Bar at Mahamba Business Centre.

“There was a misunderstanding between the two over 25 cents change when Lorraine told him that she didn’t have it as yet, resulting in Chikwira getting angry.

“Lorraine asked Mangena to assist her by throwing Chikwira out of the bar. Mangena dragged Chikwira outside the bar by his belt and punched him.

“Three others joined in and hit Tinashe who was fleeing. They pursued him while throwing stones at him,” he said.

Mr Moyo said a stone landed on Mr Chikwira’s head and he lost consciousness.

“The four caught up with him. They kicked and punched him all over his body. A group led by a Zimbabwe National Army officer, Corporal Shakespeare Macharaga, came to Tinashe’s rescue,” he said.

Mr Chikwira was ferried to Inyathi District Hospital for treatment and because of his critical condition; he was transferred to Mpilo Central Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit.

Matabeleland North police spokesperson Inspector Siphiwe Makonese could not be reached for comment.

She was said to be attending a meeting in Victoria Falls.

@winnie_masara

Minister Joram Gumbo

Felex Share, Harare Bureau
At least 45 engineers from China are expected in the country next week to begin works on the $1 billion Beitbridge-Harare Highway dualisation project, whose implementation programme has been presented to President Mugabe.

Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Dr Joram Gumbo told our Harare Bureau on Monday that the company contracted to dualise the highway, Geiger International of Austria, had started bringing in their funds.

The Austrian company was contracted by Government to carry out the project under a 25-year build-operate-transfer (BOT) model at a cost of $998 million.

It will work with Zhejiang Bayong Highway Engineering Company of China.

“As promised by the contractor during the ground breaking ceremony, I am pleased to say that they have sent us their programme for the dualisation of the Beitbridge-Harare section of our road,” Dr Gumbo said.

“I have informed the President and have also given him their implementation programme. We are excited as a ministry by the development and they are anxious to compete the programme in three years. They have started bringing their money in as they have opened bank accounts.”

Dr Gumbo said engineers were waiting for work permits to come into the country.

“They have given us a list of 45 engineers who are coming for the preliminary works which include the selection of local participants in the project,” he said.

“They have also kept their word that 40 percent of the works to be done should be reserved for locals. The issuance of visas for the 45 engineers is on.”

The project, which fits into the Zim-Asset infrastructure and utilities cluster, is expected to stimulate economic development.

Thousands of jobs will be created with skilled and non-skilled personnel being hired, while there would be business opportunities for local firms and citizens.

The Government has negotiated that 40 percent of the dualisation project benefits locals as part of empowering indigenous people.

The dualisation of the highway is expected to reduce carnage and increase the flow of goods and tourists in and outside the country.

Dr Gumbo said actual construction was expected to begin in August.

“They have already identified their sites for camping and the main one will be in Masvingo for distribution of equipment going south and coming to Harare,” he said.

“Everything is on course and they should be fully on the ground beginning next month. These issues take time considering the amount involved, but they have done that within a short period, setting the stage for actual construction.”

The project will be done in phases and the first phase includes the Beitbridge-Harare Highway, while the second phase will be on the Harare-Chirundu stretch.

Vice President Mphoko has his picture taken for the national ID during a demonstration at the national launch of registration for the flood victims at Sipepa on Monday. Looking on are members of staff from the registrar general’s office

Pamela Shumba, Senior Reporter
VICE President Phelekezela Mphoko has reiterated the importance of assisting villagers in Tsholotsho to acquire identity particulars, saying it is part of the peace and reconciliation process.

VP Mphoko launched a national identification programme in Tsholotsho on Monday as part of Government’s efforts to support victims of the post-independence disturbances that rocked parts of Matabeleland and Midlands regions in the 1980s.

“Due to those disturbances, many people in Tsholotsho, Nkayi, Matabeleland South and Midlands don’t have birth certificates and identity cards.

“They can’t even claim their inheritance because they don’t have the documents. Everyone has a right to have documents as long as they are Zimbabwean.

“As Minister responsible for Peace and Reconciliation, it is my duty to make sure that these people are assisted. The disturbances caused a lot of problems and they must be solved. It’s sad that some people can’t even write because they didn’t go to school. These people have never voted because they don’t have these important documents,” said VP Mphoko.

The VP, who was one of the senior Zapu officials during the transition from colonial rule to Independence on April 18, 1980, said his ministry was also planning to rebury victims of the disturbances who did not get decent burials.

“We’ll not talk about compensation for now because it requires a lot of money. We want to make sure those who don’t have identity particulars have them and make sure that the bones that are lying around are given decent burials.

“We’ll work with the police to carry out the exercise. There are also mass graves here. It’s unfortunate we can’t rebury them but we’ll make sure these people are given the respect they deserve,” said VP Mphoko.

The VP maintained that the disturbances were a Western conspiracy bent on destabilising the newly-independent Zimbabwean State.

“The disturbances that happened after Independence were not because of President Mugabe’s problem, it was a Western conspiracy to destabilise the newly-independent state of Zimbabwe.

“While other people have said they don’t want to ask for forgiveness, President Mugabe has acknowledged that it was a moment of madness,” said VP Mphoko.

He challenged Zimbabweans to unite and co-exist peacefully saying the successful execution of the war of liberation that removed minority rule was an example of what a united people could achieve if they worked in unison.

The VP called on the contractors that will be responsible for the construction of the new homesteads for the flood victims to employ locals and desist from bringing people from other areas.

Home Affairs Minister Dr Ignatius Chombo said his ministry was aware that some villagers in Tsholotsho lost their documents to floods and was committed to addressing the issue.

“We’re here to support VP Mphoko who requested us to bring the Registrar General’s department so that those who don’t have identity particulars are assisted,” said Dr Chombo.

The Member of Parliament for Tsholotsho North, Professor Jonathan Moyo, recently said the floods had revealed a cruel reality and created an opportunity for Government to address the challenge.

This was after the local Civil Protection Unit (CPU) revealed that out of 150 pupils from Mahlaba Primary School, which was destroyed by the floods, only four had birth certificates.

The pupils included those who are supposed to register for Grade Seven, Ordinary Level and Advanced Level examinations.

A total of 490 people at the Sipepa transit camp where the flood victims were accommodated also did not have birth records, a development that Prof Moyo described as a serious problem.

The event, where a total of 152 youths graduated after completing a national youth service training, was also attended by Home Affairs Minister Dr Chombo and his deputy Obedingwa Mguni, Local Government, Public Works and National Housing minister Cde Saviour Kasukuwere and the Minister of Youth, indigenisation and Economic Empowerment Cde Patrick Zhuwao.

The Registrar General Mr Tobaiwa Mudede, traditional leaders and senior officials from several Government departments also attended the event.

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Vice President Mnangagwa

Walter Nyamukondiwa in Lions Den
VICE President Emmerson Mnangagwa has urged Zimbabweans not to be distracted by the vilification of Government’s initiatives to revive the agriculture sector in the private media as the bumper harvest was visible for everyone to see.

Speaking during a tour of the Grain Marketing Board Lion’s Den depot, VP Mnangagwa said while others had chosen to call the highly successful Command Agriculture programme Command Ugly-Culture, President Mugabe was happy with the bumper harvest.

“Ignore what’s written in the papers, they are just out to make profit. The maize is there in the fields, regardless of what they write,” said VP Mnangagwa.

He said people should work together.

The remarks appeared directed at Higher and Tertiary Education, Science and Technology Development Minister Professor Jonathan Moyo who has religiously condemned the programme.

“The President is happy. Some said Command Ugly-Culture, President said Beautiful culture. So let’s continue working together as one family,” said VP Mnangagwa.

He said people should sit down to find solutions to common challenges.

This comes amid indications the country is set to surpass previous deliveries following overwhelming support of the Command Agriculture, Presidential Inputs Scheme and individual effort.

The country expects over three million tonnes of grain.

Figures so far show that Lion’s Den depot alone is 2 000 metric tonnes shy of filling the ninth silo out of 29 at the initial stages of grain deliveries.

“Don’t worry about being criticised. The more we are criticised the harder we will work. We pray God gives us more rains.”

He said an aerial view of parts of Mashonaland West Province showed that the bulk of the grain was yet to be harvested.

Makonde district Agritex extension officer Mrs Jesilina Katanda told VP Mnangagwa challenges faced by farmers included shortage of combine harvesters with only 25 throughout the district.

This has affected the winter wheat crop as most of the maize is still in the field.

Meanwhile, Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Christopher Mushohwe yesterday also castigated individuals speaking ill of Command Agriculture.

Minister Mushohwe said mere talking without evidence remained empty talk and should be treated as such.

He said this on the sidelines of his tour of Univern Enterprises’ premises in Harare.

Univern Enterprises, which also trades as Southern Region Trading Company, is working with the police to develop a computerised traffic system to monitor all activities at roadblocks on real time basis.

“People are entitled to their views but if you talk about something that you cannot prove then it means it is just empty talk,” he said.

“People have got the constitutional right to express their views, to vent their anger on certain things or even their perception but a perception which is not a fact remains a perception.

“If indeed people think that there is corruption in Command Agriculture let that be proved. This is why I am talking about the police. Let that be reported to the police so that the law can take its course.”

The late Abel Sithole

Bongani Ndlovu, Showbiz Correspondent

FOUNDING member of Jazz group the Cool Crooners Abel Sithole, who died on Sunday, has been declared a liberation war hero and will be buried on Friday.

Sithole died at the age of 83 at Mpilo Central hospital on Sunday where he had been admitted for two weeks after suffering a stroke.

A war veteran of note Sithole will be buried at the Nkulumane Heroes’ Acre according to Bulawayo War veterans chairman Cephas Ncube.

“Sithole will be buried at the Nkulumane Heroes’ Acre in Bulawayo alongside Matshingelani Nyathi who also died on Sunday. A statement from the war veterans shall be given out on Friday at the burial,” said Ncube.

Mourners are gathered at 17 Sotshangane Flats in Nguboyenja Bulawayo.

 More details to follow. . .

Pamela Shumba, Senior Reporter
MATABELELAND North provincial administrator Ms Latiso Dlamini has implored the Government to prioritise the construction of schools in Tsholotsho to cater for children who were affected by floods who are crowded at Tshino Primary School following the relocation of villagers.

A total of 371 families, 54 percent of them being children, were last month relocated from Sipepa transit camp after being displaced by floods.

They have since been allocated new stands at Tshino and Sawudweni villages with the Government expected to build homesteads for them.

Speaking during the launch of the national identification programme by Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko on Monday, Ms Dlamini said enrolment at Tshino Primary School had risen from 500 to 900, a number too big for the school.

“We’re excited that the families have been moved from the transit camp to the new villages and we’re grateful to Government for making this possible. This is a proposal we made years ago. We, however still have a mammoth task before us to build homesteads for these people. They are currently using tents for shelter.

“Another challenge we’re facing is that the enrolment at Tshino Primary School increased from 500 to 900. The school unfortunately cannot accommodate this number due to inadequate infrastructure and facilities. Some of the children are using tents as classrooms,” said Ms Dlamini.

She said it was important for the Government to prioritise the construction of schools to accommodate the children and create a conducive environment for them and their teachers.

Ms Dlamini said the community also required a clinic, accessible roads and boreholes.

The Minister of Local Government, Public Works and National Housing Cde Saviour Kasukuwere said Government was already working on the required infrastructure.

“I’m happy that we’ve received a lot of support from China, Japan, India, Algeria, Botswana and Namibia to assist the flood victims. The financial support will go towards the construction project for the flood victims,” said Minister Kasukuwere.

He said local organisations such as CBZ, Glow Petroleum, Econet, Zimplats, the Diasporans and various non-governmental organisations have also made contributions to help affected people.

Each family, according to Government, will have a three-roomed house, a granary and a kitchen as well as a toilet built for it. A total of 164 toilet pits have already been dug, lined and built up to slab level.

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The late Abel Sithole

Bongani Ndlovu, Chronicle Correspondent
A FOUNDING member of Jazz group the Cool Crooners Abel Sinomotsi Sithole who died on Sunday, has been declared a liberation war hero and will be buried tomorrow at the Bulawayo Provincial Heroes Acre.

Cde Sithole died at the age of 82 at Mpilo Central Hospital where he had been admitted for two weeks after suffering a stroke.

Bulawayo war veterans chairman Cephas Ncube said a church service will be held at the late liberation war hero’s home at 17 Sotshangane Flats in Nguboyenja suburb in the morning before burial.

Born on June 4 in a family of seven, Cde Sithole started his music career when he joined a musical group The Golden Rhythm Crooners. It was through this group that they raised funds for political organisations around the country. The group was also popular outside the country’s borders with revolutionaries as they toured Zambia, Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire at that time) in 1958.

They also toured Malawi as well as Tanzania in 1961.

In Tanzania they met armed struggle leaders that included President Mugabe and his late wife Sally Mugabe, Jason Ziyaphapha Moyo, Joseph Msika and Leopold Takawira.

Cde Sithole then joined the struggle in 1967 and was part of the African National Congress (ANC), National Democratic Party (NDP) and the Zimbabwe African People’s Union (ZAPU).

Meanwhile, another war veteran Cde Matshingelani Nyathi who also died on Sunday at his home at Killspring Farm in the West Acre area at the age of 56, will also be buried at the Bulawayo Provincial heroes Acre tomorrow.

A founding member of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association, Cde Nyathi, joined the liberation war in 1976.

He was trained at Mboma Camp in Zambia in 1977.

After demobilisation in 1983, he joined the National Railways of Zimbabwe the following year as a manager and rose through the ranks until he retired in 2015 as a records management officer.

Mourners are gathered at 607045/14 Sizinda Flats in Bulawayo where a church service would be held in the morning before burial.

VP Phelekezela Mphoko

Pamela Shumba, Senior Reporter
TRADITIONAL leaders have appealed to Government to increase their monthly allowances.

Speaking on behalf of chiefs during a briefing before the launch of the national identification programme by Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko in Tsholotsho on Monday, Chief Mathuphula said monthly allowances that chiefs were getting from the government should be reviewed.

He appealed to VP Mphoko to speak to responsible authorities on behalf of traditional leaders.

“Chiefs are earning $300 per month and we feel that Government could do better than that. We have since presented our plea to President Mugabe and we’re also requesting the VP to assist us on that issue. We need motivation and recognition from Government, Chiefs all over the country are working hard to make sure that there’s peace in the communities,” he said.

“We are trying under the circumstances to work for the people and see that their lives are uplifted. With poverty rampant in the rural areas, we have a burden of feeding the poor and the vulnerable. As chiefs, the people look up to us. We don’t want a situation where chiefs end up begging from villagers.”

Recently, Zimbabwe Council of Chiefs president Chief Fortune Charumbira said they were in constant dialogue with the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development over the issue.

He said traditional leaders were being forced to personally fund customary courts.

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Sharon Chiware, Midlands Reporter
A 33-year-old hooker from Gweru has been sentenced to three months in jail after she stole $450 from a man who had engaged her for a “quick session” only to later fall asleep and pee in her bed.

Creamrose Mabasa (33) of Vhango Bar quarters appeared before Gweru Provincial Magistrate Mrs Phathekile Msipa facing a theft charge.

She denied the charge.

Mrs Msipa convicted and sentenced her to three months in jail.

One month was suspended on condition that she restitutes $450 to the complainant by July 31.

In passing the sentence, Ms Msipa said Mabasa took advantage of a drunken client.

“What you did was against the law because you took advantage of the drunk client.

“You also stole from him after you had received your full payment from him. You are sentenced to three months imprisonment and one month is suspended on condition you restitute $450 to the complainant by July 31,” she said.

Mabasa told the magistrate that she only received $8 from Chiemura Fanadzo as payment for sex and did not steal from her client.

“We agreed on a $8 payment for a quick session with my client and we entered into my room where we also found four couples doing their business.

“After the session l woke up my client who had dozed off and had peed in my bed.

“He quickly went to the toilet and he came back claiming that l had searched his wallet and stole his money,” she said.

Prosecuting, Mr Andrew Marimo said on June 24 at Vhango Bar, Mabasa was hired for sex by Fanadzo.

“The complainant went on to sleep wearing a short which contained a wallet which had $450 in the back pocket.

“The two went on to perform the services for the night, afterwards the complainant fell asleep,” he said.

Mr Marimo said Mabasa took advantage of her client who had dozed off and stole the complainant’s wallet.

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