BY DR MASIMBA MAVAZA Convicted businessmen Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, who have a combined net worth of around US$3 million and 24 children, are facing 35-year prison sentences for defrauding the state of millions meant for Zimbabwe’s poorest families. The duo was found guilty of using forged documents to secure a tender to supply 632,001 goats under the Presidential Goat Scheme, targeting vulnerable groups such as orphans, child-headed households, and the elderly. Prosecutor Whisper Mabhaudhi, in not much more than a whisper described the offence as “shocking the conscience” and urged High Court Judge Justice Pisirayi Kwenda to impose the maximum sentence. Chimombe’s lawyers, Arshiel Mugiya and Lovemore Madhuku, argued for leniency, citing his first-time offender status, diabetes, and willingness to make restitution. Mpofu apologised in a whisper to the President and the people of Zimbabwe, admitting to failing to verify the authenticity of documents. He revealed owning a US$1.5 million house, transferred to a family trust in 2017 or 2018. Sentencing is scheduled for Monday, December 8, 2025. The state is seeking asset forfeiture, aiming to recover losses from the US$7 million fraud. Post navigation Chief Justice Malaba’s Retirement Looms. Strengthening Zimbabwe’s Safety Culture: Practical Security Tips Every Citizen Must Know