The Benefits of Sustainable Travel: How to Reduce Your Impact

 Nyamasoka Shyleen 

Staff Writer 

As travelers, we've all been there - standing in front of a breathtaking monument, surrounded by vibrant culture and feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience it. But have you ever stopped to think about the impact of your travels on the places you visit?

Tourism can have a profound effect on local environments and communities, from contributing to pollution and waste management issues to disrupting traditional ways of life. However, it's also a powerful tool for driving positive change.

By embracing sustainable travel practices, you can reduce your impact, support local economies, and enhance your travel experiences. Here are just a few reasons why sustainable travel matters:

Preserve the Places You Love

When you travel sustainably, you're helping to preserve the very places that make your journeys so unforgettable. From the stunning beaches of Bali to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, sustainable tourism supports conservation efforts and protects these incredible destinations for future generations.

Support Local Communities

Sustainable travel is about more than just reducing your carbon footprint - it's also about supporting local communities and promoting cultural exchange. By choosing locally-owned accommodations, eating at family-run restaurants, and shopping at community markets, you're putting money directly into the pockets of the people who need it most.

Enhance Your Travel Experiences

Sustainable travel isn't just good for the planet - it's also a more immersive and authentic way to experience different cultures. When you take the time to learn about local customs, traditions, and ways of life, you'll gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the places you visit.

So, how can you make your travels more sustainable? Here are a few practical tips to get you started:

1. Choose eco-friendly accommodations: Look for hotels, hostels, and resorts that have implemented sustainable practices, such as reducing energy consumption, conserving water, and reducing waste.

2. Use public transportation: Instead of renting a car or taking taxis, use public transportation to get around. Not only is it more environmentally-friendly, but it's also a great way to meet locals and experience the culture.

3. Reduce single-use plastics: Bring a reusable water bottle, straw, and shopping bag to reduce your use of single-use plastics.

4. Respect local customs and environments: Take the time to learn about local customs, traditions, and environmental concerns. Respect sacred sites, wildlife, and natural habitats.

5. Support local businesses and communities: Choose locally-owned accommodations, eat at family-run restaurants, and shop at community markets to put money directly into the local economy.

By incorporating these sustainable travel practices into your next adventure, you'll not only be reducing your impact on the environment but also enhancing your travel experiences and supporting local communities.

So, where will your next sustainable adventure take you?

Cholera Alert: Protecting Zvishavane from the Outbreak

Nyamasoka Shyleen

Staff Writer

Zvishavane is on high rate as Zimbabwe battles a cholera outbreak with 579 cases and 13 fatalities reported nationwide highlighting the need for continued precautions.

According to recent statistics, Zimbabwe has recorded a total of 579 cholera cases and 13 fatalities as of March 12, 2025. The outbreak has affected several districts, including Harare, Mazowe, Bindura, Kariba, Mt Darwin, Uzumba Maramba Pfungwe (UMP), Beitbridge, Chiredzi, and Hwedza.

The most alarming aspect of this outbreak is its rapid spread to areas that were previously unaffected by the disease. Historically, cholera outbreaks in Zimbabwe have been concentrated in urban centers and known hotspot districts. However, the current outbreak has breached these traditional patterns affecting both rural and peri-urban areas.

In Harare, the epicenter of the outbreak, 34% of the total cases have been reported. Mazowe District has recorded 21% of the cases, while Bindura and Kariba have reported 12% and 8% respectively.

The outbreak has been attributed to the country's fragile water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure. Erratic water supply, limited sanitation facilities and poor waste management have created an environment conducive to the spread of the disease.

As Zvishavane residents go about their daily lives, it is essential to remember that prevention is key. By taking simple precautions, such as washing hands regularly, drinking clean water and avoiding contaminated food, residents can protect themselves and their loved ones from the disease.

The government and health authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases to the nearest health center. By working together, Zvishavane can remain cholera-free and avoid the devastating consequences of the outbreak.

Protect Yourself, Protect Your Community

• Wash your hands regularly with soap and clean water
• Drink clean and safe water
• Avoid contaminated food and drinks
• Report any suspected cases to the nearest health center
• Stay informed about the outbreak and follow public health guidelines

Remember, prevention is key. Let's work together to keep Zvishavane cholera-free.

BLESSING NCUBE SWEEPS ZIMBABWE'S ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY BY STORM

Nyamasoka Shyleen

Staff Writer

                                                               picture of Blessing Ncube

Blessing Ncube, popularly known as Miss Bee is rapidly becoming a household name in Zimbabwe's entertainment industry. 

Born in Zvishavane in 1999, Blessing's journey to stardom began at Shabani Primary School. Despite humble beginnings in the Makwasha Bhiza neighborhood. Her talent and determination have propelled her to dominate the film industry.

Blessing's breakout role in the acclaimed film "The Blue Estates," which premiered on ZBC and multiple channels, cemented her status as a rising star. Her powerful performance earned her widespread recognition and praise with many critics noting her natural talent and charisma on screen.

Her success inspires young people from Zvishavane and beyond demonstrating that talent and hard work can overcome any background. Blessing's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication showing that with passion and drive, anything is possible.

As Blessing Ncube continues to make waves in the entertainment industry, fans eagerly await her next move. With her star on the rise, Miss Bee is poised to become a household name in Zimbabwean showbiz. Her talent, combined with her down-to-earth personality, has won the hearts of many and she is sure to continue inspiring and entertaining audiences for years to come.

Noevale residents urged to be vigilant amidst rising crime rates

 Nyamasoka Shyleen

Staff Writer

crime and courts

Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Zvishavane, Midlands has cautioned Midlands State University (MSU) students to be vigilant with their personal belongs when the new semester commences and comes to a close as theft cases have been on the rise in Noevale area.

Thieves have been targeting students’ residences both on and off campus making off with valuable goods such as laptops, phones and cash. The thieves seem to strike during peak hours when students are in class or away from their residences. At most, thieves strike when the semester begins as most students will be away for freshman parties and also at the close of the semester whereby students would go out at night celebrating the end of the semester.

“We’ve had reports of thieves breaking into students’ rooms, especially during peak hours when students are at campus or away from their residences”, says Angela Banda, a Kandodo and Noevale ward 10 councilors. “We urge students to be cautious and report any suspicious activity to the police immediately”, she added.

A local resident, Primrose Moyo expressed concern about the safety of students in the area. “These children are our children and we want to ensure they’re safe. We need to work together as a community to prevent these thefts”. She also said that as a community, they are going to help students to protect their valuable goods because they treat them like their own children.

“I lost my laptop, phone and groceries to thieves last semester. It was a huge setback and I was at the bar with others as we were done with exams but I have learned to be more careful now,” Paddington Taderera a level4.2 studying Development Planning and Management shared his experience of being a victim of theft. It is believed that the thieves knows that the semester is now closing and most students will be out during the night and will be drunk, so they take that as an opportunity to strike.

Constable Kamuchira Rolnald from Zvishavane Police Station has advised students and residents to take precautions to secure their valuables. “As ZRP, we’ve set patrols in the area but we need the community’s help to prevent these crimes. Students should keep their valuables secure and residents should report any suspicious activity to us”. 

The police offered the following safety tips:

⦁ Keep valuables secure and out of sight

⦁ Avoid walking alone at night

⦁ Keep doors and windows locked

⦁ Report any suspicious activity to the police

⦁ Avoid going out at night

Residents and students are commended to work together to prevent theft and ensure a safe and secure community.

Zvishavane's Littering Epidemic, Quest for Change

 by Nyamasoka Shyleen

Staff Writer

a dumping site in Noevale, Zvishavane (a threat to environment and health)

 Zvishavane town's streets, rivers and public spaces have become dumping grounds for all manner of waste from plastic bottles and food wrappers to waste furniture and hazardous materials despite its natural beauty.

For many residents, littering has become a deeply fixed habit with some even viewing it as a convenient and harmless way to dispose of their trash, but the truth is far from harmless. The town's littering epidemic has severe consequences for the environment, public health and the local economy.

"I've lived in Zvishavane all my life and it's heartbreaking to see our town being treated like a garbage dump," said Themba Moyo, a concerned resident. "We need to educate our people about the importance of proper waste disposal and the impact that littering has on our community."

In December 2018, President Emmerson Mnangagwa launched the National Clean-up campaign which is a monthly initiative aimed at promoting environmental cleanliness and beautification of cities and towns. The campaign is observed on the first Friday of every month which seeks to bring together citizens, government agencies and private sector organizations to clean up public spaces, streets and waterways. As part of this initiative, various clean-up campaigns have been organized across the country including Zvishavane where residents, schools and businesses have come together to promote a culture of cleanliness and environmental stewardship.

"We're proud to be part of this initiative," Veronica Mlambo, a local environmental activist. "The National Clean-up Campaign has given us a platform to raise awareness about the importance of proper waste management and to mobilize our community to take action." She added.

Through community clean-up events, workshops and educational campaigns, the people of Zvishavane are slowly but surely beginning to understand the importance of proper waste management. "It's time for us to take responsibility for our actions and work towards creating a cleaner, healthier environment for ourselves and future generations," says Angela Banda, a councilor of ward 10 in Noevale and kandodo areas.

As the people of Zvishavane continue on their journey towards a litter-free future, their story serves as a powerful reminder that education, awareness and community engagement are key to creating positive change.

The fight against littering in Zvishavane is a long-term effort that requires the commitment and participation of every resident, but with the National Clean-up Campaign providing a framework for action, the town can overcome its littering epidemic and become a model for environmental sustainability.

Discover the beauty of The Green Village Mtonjeni Garden

by Nyamasoka Shyleen

Staff Writer

                                                  Green Village Mtonjeni Gardens picture


 Placed away in Platinum Park, just off the Gweru Road lies a breathtaking oasis that is redefining the tourism landscape of Zvishavane, The Green Village Mtonjeni Garden. 

The place is an invention of entrepreneur Memory Mugova which is a multifaceted haven that seamlessly blends natural beauty, recreation and tasty cuisine.

This attractive venue is an idea setting for a collection of events including weddings, parties and corporate functions. The lush gardens are decorated with vibrant flora which provides a peaceful backdrop for memorable photographs. A playground is also available catering to families seeking a fun-filled day out.

The question is, “what truly sets The Green Village Mtonjeni Garden apart?” well the answer to that one is, its culinary offerings. Customers can indulge in a diverse range of mouth-watering dishes from classic chicken and chips to traditional delicacies like Sadza, mazondo, guru, and gango. The braai facilities are also a hit among visitors.

                                                                 Pictures showing from left: gango, sadza neguru and sadza nezondo 

During an interview with The Seventh Oracle, Ronald Kuhwaura sang praises about this captivating venue. “The Green Village is a treasure trove of natural beaty and warmth. The food is exquisite and the services is top-notch. I believe that The Green Village is the best in Zvishavane,” he said.

Another visitor, Sithabile Dube raved about the food, “the sadza and mazondo were cooked to perfection and I’ve never tasted anything like it before.”

“I recently hosted my birthday party here and it was an unforgettable experience. The gardens are stunning and the playground kept the kids entertained for hours,” added Nkosilathi Ncube.

children playing ground

Owner Memory Mugova’s passion for creating a unique and enjoyable experience is deep. “We’re committed to provide a welcoming space where families, friends and colleagues can come together and create lasting memories,” she said.

The Green Village Mtonjeni Gardens is an absolute must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Zvishavane. With its captivating environment, services and exceptional food, this hidden gem is poised to become a flagship tourist attraction in the region.

"So, cousins, why not plan your next visit to The Green Village Mtonjeni Gardens and experience the magic for yourself?"