By Takudziridzwa Nyama
Former Mashonaland West Minister of State Reuben Marumahoko has been arrested by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) on allegations of defrauding the Agricultural Rural Development Authority (ARDA).
According to a statement from the ZACC, Marumahoko is accused of falsely applying for agricultural inputs under ARDA’s commercial farmers’ joint venture program, claiming he had the capacity to cultivate 200 hectares of maize on irrigated land.
As a result of this misrepresentation, the former minister received 2.5 metric tonnes of maize seed, 1,300 bags of Compound D fertilizer, and various chemicals. However, it is alleged that Marumahoko only planted 46 hectares of maize, disposing of the remaining inputs. This action led to a financial prejudice of USD 37,950 for ARDA.
In a related note, Marumahoko is also linked to his wife, Andy Maririmba, who is currently on remand facing similar charges of fraud.
The investigation underscores ZACC’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption and hold public officials accountable for misappropriation of resources.