By Ebi Kesiena
In Zimbabwe, a small village in Mashonaland West Province was thrown into turmoil after two government officials were arrested for allegedly diverting food aid intended for drought-affected villagers.
The accused, Mutsa Sibanda, 36, and Mazvitaishe Maisiri, 26, both officers from the Ministry of Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare, stand accused of stealing 31 bags of wheat meant to alleviate the suffering of the most vulnerable in Ward 19.
The alleged crime took place on August 12 at Negomo Primary School in Guruve, a day that was supposed to bring relief to many struggling families. Instead, it brought anger and disappointment as the food aid meant for the elderly and vulnerable was reportedly redirected by those entrusted to deliver it.
The incident came to light thanks to the vigilance of Headman Kazunga, the Ward 19 Chairperson. Kazunga had been deeply concerned when he noticed irregularities in the food distribution process. The officers had ordered local leaders to stay away from the site, an unusual directive that raised red flags. When Kazunga attempted to intervene on behalf of the excluded villagers, he was met with resistance and dismissal from the officers.
Heartbroken and determined to seek justice, Kazunga reported the matter to the authorities. His actions led to the arrest of Sibanda and Maisiri, who now face serious charges. The local community, still reeling from the betrayal, has praised Kazunga’s courage in standing up for those who were being left out.
On Thursday, Inspector Milton Mundembe, the provincial spokesperson for Mashonaland Central, confirmed the arrests and emphasized the importance of community cooperation in ensuring transparency. The case, now under investigation, highlights the ongoing struggle many Zimbabweans face in securing basic necessities and the critical role local leaders play in safeguarding their communities.
