A wave of fear has gripped Chipinge as an armed gang continues to target women living alone. Meanwhile, legal drama surrounds high-profile figures, and regional shifts are making waves across Southern Africa. Here is your comprehensive update for January 27, 2026.
Security Alert: Chipinge Gang Attacks Women Living Alone
Residents of Chipinge are on high alert following a series of terrifying raids by an armed gang. The group has been specifically targeting households where women live alone.
Latest Update:
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Arrest Made: Police have successfully apprehended one man in connection with the attacks.
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The Hunt Continues: Law enforcement remains on the hunt for the remaining gang members, who are still at large.
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Community Safety: Authorities are urging residents to fortify their homes and report any suspicious activity immediately.
Top Trending News: The Legal Battle Over Walter Magaya
Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries founder, Walter Magaya, is back in the spotlight as new details emerge regarding his recent arrest.
Why Magaya Was Arrested
As of January 2026, Magaya is facing five new rape charges involving at least four different women. The allegations span over several years, with one victim reportedly having a child with the cleric between 2018 and 2023.
History of Allegations
Magaya’s legal history is marked by a recurring pattern of serious accusations:
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Petronella Donhodzo Mandaza (2016): An MSU student who later attempted to withdraw her rape report citing death threats.
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Charity Dlodlo & Sarah Maruta (2019): Former members who alleged a systematic pattern of abuse within the congregation.
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The Maenzanise Family (2019): Publicly alleged their 17-year-old daughter was raped, though she later denied the claims in a video with her husband.
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Recent Cases (2023–2026): Incidents allegedly occurred at locations including the Yadah Hotel Presidential Suite and private residences in Borrowdale.
Key Events Today: First Lady in the Midlands
First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa is scheduled to re-start her community engagement programs in the Midlands Province this week.
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Wednesday, Jan 28 (Zhombe): Attending the Dare RaMambo platform to discuss cultural values and social cohesion with traditional leaders.
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Thursday, Jan 29 (Shurugwi): Hosting a humanitarian outreach at Douglas Grounds to distribute food hampers to vulnerable families.
Africa & Business News
Economic Shifts
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The Rand Strengthens: For the first time since July 2022, the South African Rand has dipped below R15 to the USD, signaling a significant shift in regional currency markets.
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RBZ Controversy: Economists, including Prof. Gift Mugano, have challenged the latest figures released by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, labeling them as “fake numbers” that do not reflect the reality on the ground.
Flood Crisis in Mozambique
ANAMOLA party president, Venâncio Mondlane, has challenged President Daniel Chapo to declare a State of Emergency. Mondlane is demanding an investigation into $11 million worth of missing mobile bridges and the “governmental tragedy” surrounding the closure of the N1 highway due to floods.
Foreign Pupils in South African Schools
Latest data reveals a high enrollment of foreign students in SA, led by:
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Gauteng: 128,054
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Western Cape: 59,138
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Limpopo: 16,566
Community & Lifestyle
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Valentine’s Day 2026: Trending themes this year include “Pastel Nostalgia” and “Experience-First” gifting. Local retailers are already rolling out perfume gift sets and jewelry specials.
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AFM University Update: Discussions continue surrounding the expansion of the AFM University and theological training programs as the church navigates its ongoing leadership transitions.
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Military Veterans: ZEVIC (PVT) LTD, the Zvimba East Veterans Investment Company, has issued a public warning following the suspension of its CEO and PR Director in December 2025.
