By Kwedu News
GWERU, Zimbabwe – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) 2025 Commissioner General’s race, held this past Saturday at Mkoba Teachers’ College, was not only a showcase of athletic prowess, but also a platform for artistic expression.
Gweru-based trio, High Voltage Poets, turned heads with an electrifying performance of their poem, “Run for Unity,” leaving a lasting impression on runners and spectators alike. Comprising Fungai Goronga (Fungie the Poet), Siphosami Ndlovu (The Village Poet), and the talented 14-year-old Delight Ndlovu (Dellah d’ Poet), the group masterfully blended sporting themes with a potent message of unity and perseverance.
The poem, penned by multi-lingual author and artistic director of High Voltage Poets, Dumisani Ndlovu, served as a poetic pep talk, reminding listeners of the untapped strength within each individual and the transformative power of unity in achieving collective goals. “Run for Unity” uses vivid imagery, drawing parallels between the race and a challenging mountain climb, to foster a positive mindset and encourage unwavering determination.
“The poem is designed to be a motivational anthem,” explains Dumisani Ndlovu. “It aims to ignite a sense of shared purpose and remind everyone of their inherent potential. The analogy of the mountain climb is deliberate, representing the obstacles we face, but ultimately, it underscores the possibility for greatness that resides within us all.”
The inclusion of the line, “wheelchairs to tracks,” further amplified the poem’s message of inclusivity, celebrating the diverse participants in the race and highlighting the importance of equal opportunity. The poem’s central refrain, “Run for Unity,” acted as a compelling call to action, emphasizing the urgency of collective action and fostering a sense of shared purpose.
“The ‘Run for Unity’ refrain is more than just a title; it’s an invitation,” Ndlovu elaborates. “It’s a call to action, urging everyone to actively participate in building a stronger, more unified community. It’s about recognizing that we are all running this race together, towards a common goal.”
While acknowledging the presence of familiar poetic devices, the resonating theme of community spirit and unwavering resilience captivated the Gweru audience. High Voltage Poets’ performance served as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of poetry to uplift, inspire, and nurture a strong sense of collective identity.
A deeper analysis of “Run for Unity” reveals its vibrant and energetic tribute to the power of community and collective action. The rhythm and movement created by the imagery of the “rhythm of our feet” highlights that unity isn’t a static concept. Instead, it is a continuous process that demands participation from every individual. The poem’s accessible language and inclusive message further underscore the significance of unity and community.
The poem’s effectiveness lies in its ability to strike a balance between inspiration and realism. The inclusion of “wheelchairs to tracks” serves as a powerful symbol of inclusivity and diversity, emphasizing that everyone, irrespective of their background or circumstances, is welcome to participate and contribute to the community. The poem also grounds the abstract concept of unity in tangible realities, referencing “Mkoba Teachers’ College” as a symbol of education, growth, and community development.
The High Voltage Poets’ performance at the ZRP Commissioner General’s race, which featured athletes from across the country competing in the grueling 21-kilometer race, served as a powerful reminder of the importance of unity, resilience, and the unwavering spirit within.
Their performance left a lasting impression on the audience, proving the power of poetry to inspire and uplift a community. It served as a unique blend of sport and art, reinforcing the idea that unity, much like a race, requires dedication, perseverance, and a collective commitment to achieving a shared goal. The success of “Run for Unity” at the ZRP race confirms the ongoing relevance and powerful potential of poetry to inspire and unite communities on a global scale.
New Gweru boss calms tensions at burial after tragic accident
Dumisani Ndlovu
GWERU– In a moment of profound leadership, Gweru’s newly appointed police chief, Chief Superintendent Dr. Leon Marongedze, successfully diffused a volatile situation at the funeral of Taurai Mhlahla, the victim of a recent police pursuit accident in Mkoba 1.
His empathetic approach resonated deeply with a grieving community, averting potential unrest and paving the way for a pursuit of justice.
Dr. Marongedze, just four months into his role in the Midlands province, faced a challenging task addressing a crowd deeply angered and mourning the loss of Mhlahla. Acknowledging his relative newness to the area, he began with a heartfelt expression of sorrow. “I am deeply sorry for the pain you are feeling,” he stated, his sincerity evident. “I am still new here, and learning the nuances of this community. As a police officer, I also recognize my shared humanity and understand your grief.”
His words struck a chord, serving to de-escalate the mounting tensions. Understanding the sensitivity surrounding the alleged involvement of Constable Sakala, Dr. Marongedze addressed the issue directly. “Regarding Constable Sakala, we must acknowledge that mistakes can happen,” he said. “It’s imperative that we work together to achieve justice and peace, preventing this tragedy from further dividing us.”
This balanced approach, both understanding and firm, effectively shifted the crowd’s focus from anger towards a collective desire for resolution and accountability. “We are committed to a thorough investigation into this tragic incident,” Dr. Marongedze pledged, his commitment clear. “Justice will be served, and those responsible will be held accountable for their actions.”
The palpable shift in the atmosphere was punctuated by applause, a powerful indicator of the community’s acceptance of Dr. Marongedze’s leadership. The funeral proceedings then continued with the community honoring Mhlahla, celebrating his life, kindness, and the positive impact he had on those around him.
Dr. Marongedze’s handling of the situation, characterized by sincerity and empathy, has been widely appreciated within the community. Many residents are hopeful that his leadership will foster improved relations between the police force and the public, ushering in a more compassionate and understanding approach in dealing with future crises. His actions have set a strong precedent for his tenure as Officer Commanding, Gweru District, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and accountability. The community now looks forward to seeing his commitment to justice fulfilled, and a renewed sense of trust building between the police and the people they serve.
