The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has arrested Reuben Marumahoko, the former Minister of State for Mashonaland West Province, on charges of fraud. Marumahoko is accused of misrepresenting his ability to cultivate 200 hectares of maize under the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority’s (ARDA) commercial farmers’ joint venture program.
The former minister allegedly applied for agricultural inputs under false pretenses, claiming to have the capacity for large-scale maize farming. As a result, he received 2.5 metric tonnes of maize seed, 1300 bags of Compound D fertilizer, and various chemicals. However, Marumahoko only planted 46 hectares of maize, disposing of the remaining inputs and causing ARDA a financial loss of USD 37,950.
Interestingly, Marumahoko’s wife, Andy Maririmba, is also facing similar charges, having been arrested earlier this month. Marumahoko is set to appear in Chinhoyi Magistrate Court on November 12, 2024.