Masvingo – A land dispute involving Chief Murinye and Riverton Academy Extension (Murinye) has escalated, prompting the intervention of Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs, Ezra Chadzamira. The conflict centres around accusations that the school was constructed on unapproved grazing land, with the traditional leader allegedly attempting to disrupt its operations.
The saga unfolded dramatically on Sunday when Chief Ephias Munodawafa, the current Chief Murinye, blockaded the entrance to the newly established boarding school, preventing parents from dropping off their children for the start of the school term. Witnesses reported that the Chief parked his government-issued Isuzu vehicle, conspicuously lacking number plates, across the road leading to Riverton Academy Extension, causing kilometre-long traffic jams on both sides.
According to eyewitness accounts, Munodawafa ordered parents to turn back, asserting that the school would not open as scheduled because its owner, Philimon Mutangiri, had failed to seek his permission to build the institution. The Masvingo Mirror reported that the Chief insisted the construction was illegal and lacked the necessary paperwork.
However, Mutangiri has vehemently denied these allegations, accusing the Chief of extortion. He told reporters that Munodawafa had previously demanded that his homestead be connected to electricity, a demand Mutangiri claims he fulfilled by purchasing a transformer valued at approximately US$7,000.
Mutangiri further alleges that the Chief later returned with fresh demands, insisting that the school sign a contract guaranteeing free enrolment for all his children. This demand was rejected by the school, leading to the dramatic standoff on Sunday.
Police intervention eventually led to the removal of the Chief’s vehicle, allowing access to the school.
Following a meeting, during which Chief Murinye reportedly stormed out, Minister Chadzamira stated that while construction had begun before the paperwork was completed, the correct legal channels had been followed.
“We do not encourage illegal work. As a province, we follow the legal procedures of the government and the development that is encouraged by the President,” said Chadzamira. “The paperwork is in order. The applications and the approval are there. It is just that the construction of the school has preceded the paperwork.”
Chief Murinye’s primary contention revolves around alleged underhanded activities that allowed the school to be built on grazing land. Mutangiri, however, maintains that an agreement was reached between the two parties, involving the installation of the US$7,000 transformer at the Chief’s homestead.
Minister Chadzamira has affirmed that Riverton Academy Extension (Murinye) is permitted to operate as a satellite school while the outstanding paperwork is finalised with the relevant authorities.
“Students are at the school. Schools operate as satellites that is when the other one is registered and its paperwork is in order, the other one can operate as a satellite while the paperwork is being finalised,” Chadzamira explained.
This is not the first time Chief Munodawafa has found himself embroiled in controversy. In 2023, he reportedly fled on foot while being pursued by villagers in Village 33B after attempting to halt a funeral that was already underway. He claimed the burial was taking place within his jurisdiction without his authority, despite the area also being claimed by another chief. More than a dozen villagers were later arrested and convicted of assault in connection with the incident and were fined by a court.
Meanwhile, as schools open for the 2026 first term, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has issued a strong appeal to parents, guardians, school authorities, and transport operators to prioritise the safety and security of learners.
In a statement released on Monday, National Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi highlighted the increased movement on the roads associated with the opening of schools, urging extra caution from all stakeholders.
“As schools open for the 2026 first term proceedings, the Zimbabwe Republic Police appeals to parents, guardians, school authorities, transport operators and the general public to prioritise the safety and security of learners,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
Commissioner Nyathi particularly emphasised the importance of roadworthy and properly certified vehicles for transport operators ferrying pupils to and from schools.
“Drivers are reminded to exercise caution, avoid speeding and strictly comply with all road rules and regulations in order to prevent road traffic accidents. School authorities and transporters must also ensure that buses and other vehicles used to transport learners are not overloaded under any circumstances,” he said.
He also cautioned against learners travelling at night, citing increased risks such as road traffic accidents and criminal activities.
Given the ongoing rainy season, the police spokesperson urged learners and motorists to avoid attempting to cross flooded rivers, streams, or bridges.
“Learners should not attempt to cross flooded rivers, streams or bridges, either on foot or in vehicles. School authorities and motorists are encouraged to closely monitor weather conditions and road accessibility for the safety of school children,” he said.
Commissioner Nyathi further advised parents and school authorities against keeping large sums of cash at school premises, recommending that school fees and other payments be deposited through financial institutions.
“This will help minimise the risk of robbery and theft, as keeping large sums of cash at school attracts criminal elements, sometimes leading to armed robbery incidents,” he said.
He concluded by calling on members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious or criminal activities to the police.
“Above all, the public should report criminal activities on the National Complaints Desk number (0242) 703631 or via WhatsApp on 0712 800 197, or report at the nearest police station,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
Follow @MyZimbabweNews
