NHS dismisses allegations of mismanagement

SOE cites audited records and policy documents to counter whistleblower claims

Nyashadzashe Ndoro—Chief Reporter

National Handling Services, the state-owned enterprise under the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, has moved to quash corruption allegations targeting its board chairman, Advocate Godwin Nyengedza, its executive team, and associated firms.

In an interview with Zim Now, the company—responsible for operations at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport and management of the Zimbabwe Dry Port in Walvis Bay, Namibia—described the claims as “false, malicious, and designed to discredit ongoing reforms.”

Travel and “Double Dipping” Claims

Whistleblowers alleged that Nyengedza spent more than US$140,000 on overseas trips in just three months late last year and further accused him of “double dipping” by claiming allowances while requesting an extra US$6,000 for entertainment during a governance trip to South Africa.

NHS, however, produced audited figures showing that between September and December 2024, Nyengedza’s sanctioned international travel cost a total of US$11,341.27—a fraction of what was claimed. The company stressed that all travel was approved through Cabinet authority, complied with government circulars, and was undertaken for benchmarking best practices in corporate governance.

“Allegations of double dipping are without foundation and bordering on criminality. They should be dismissed with the contempt they deserve,” NHS said.

Board Meetings and Accommodation

Critics also alleged that Nyengedza pressured executives to host board meetings at expensive hotels outside Harare, inflating allowances. NHS acknowledged that some meetings are held outside the capital but said they are deliberately paired with corporate activities to maximize value for money.

The board cited the July 2025 strategy review in Bulawayo, which coincided with the commissioning of a school block at Majiji Primary in Matabeleland North. Accommodation, it said, was in “standard hotels” such as Holiday Inn Bulawayo, with all costs subject to audit.

Pension Arrears

Another allegation concerned a supposed US$900,000 pension debt. The NHS confirmed arrears but said the actual figure was US$661,960.53 and ZWG$4.98 million as of July 2025, largely inherited from past administrations. Management reported that remittances resumed in June 2025 and that some payouts dating back to 2022 had already been cleared. A debt restructuring exercise is under review.

Child Minder Policy

Questions were also raised over the company secretary allegedly travelling with her child and maid at company expense. NHS clarified that a Child Minder Assistance Policy, introduced in 2023, allows breastfeeding mothers to travel with a minder during official duties. The policy, the company stressed, applies to all eligible employees and not just to one individual. Claims of European travel with dependents were dismissed as “false and malicious.”

Sale of Assets and Legal Fees

Allegations that Nyengedza was seeking to sell NHS and the Zimbabwe Dry Port to Unifreight for US$7 million were described as “senseless.” Management emphasized that as a government-owned entity, no individual has authority to dispose of NHS assets.

On concerns about legal fees, NHS denied claims of US$200,000 paid without tender. It said Maguchu and Muchada Attorneys were selected from three proposals due to their expertise in labor law, which was critical in managing the suspension of executives. The board argued that external counsel was essential for independence and impartiality.

Dry Port Losses and Leadership Appointments

Allegations that Acting CEO Philip Rambakudzibwa was handpicked to protect Nyengedza and failed to detect losses of over R1.3 million at the Zimbabwe Dry Port were also rejected. NHS clarified that audited statements show losses of N$587,248, caused by fraud by a former accountant. The issue, the board said, was fully disclosed at the 2023 AGM. Rambakudzibwa’s appointment was defended as merit-based, reflecting his leadership record and deep knowledge of NHS operations.

Salaries and Staff Welfare

Whistleblowers claimed staff salaries were delayed while the board prioritized perks. The NHS insisted salaries are current and board fees are publicly disclosed at AGMs. It highlighted recent progress under the acting executives, including the revival of staff medical aid, refurbishment of staff facilities, resumed pension payments, acquisition of new equipment, and investment in community projects.