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Herald Reporter

Zimpapers journalists excelled at the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) Awards, winning two out of four accolades presented to outstanding reporters for their work in exposing corruption.

The ceremony, presided over by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere, celebrated exceptional investigative journalism.

Dr Muswere said he was happy to lead the event, highlighting the media’s vital role in promoting accountability and integrity while combating corruption.

He praised President Mnangagwa for his commitment to fighting graft, which he termed a significant barrier to Zimbabwe’s economic progress.

“His Excellency, President Mnangagwa recently expressed strong sentiments regarding the pervasive issue of corruption, acknowledging its significant impact on Zimbabwe’s development,” said Dr Muswere.

He stressed the importance of holding those engaged in corruption accountable and warned against misinformation, which undermines public trust in institutions and the media.

“As we honour the achievements of this year’s winners, let us remember that it is their diligence in information gathering and fact-checking that has earned them this recognition,” he said.

The Herald’s Blessings Chidakwa won the Best Reporter on Service Delivery, Veronica Gwaze of The Sunday Mail landed the Anti-Corruption Reporter of the Year award while Brenna Matendere of NewsHawks won the Best Reporter on Public Interest Issues and Miriam Mangwanya of NewsDay got the Best Reporter on Institutional Corruption.

ZACC Chairperson Mr Michael Reza said there was need for collaboration in combating corruption.

“This year’s Anti-Corruption Media Awards are being held under the theme, ‘Strengthening Collaboration for a Corruption-Free Zimbabwe’,” he said.  “Eradicating corruption cannot be the responsibility of a single entity; it requires collaboration across sectors, reinforcing the idea that everyone has a role to play.”

Mr Reza connected the fight against corruption to Zimbabwe’s broader development goals, stating that only through collective efforts can the country achieve its vision of becoming an upper-middle-income nation by 2030.

After receiving his award, Chidakwa expressed gratitude to The Herald newsroom team.

“I dedicate this award to The Herald Editor Victoria Ruzvidzo and the entire newsroom, who have moulded me into the journalist I am today. The exposure and support I have gained from Zimpapers is unparalleled, and I will forever be grateful,” he said.

The ZACC awards aim to encourage and recognise media efforts in exposing corruption, fostering accountability, and promoting a culture of transparency in Zimbabwe.