Overview
The arrest of Walter Magaya, leader of Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD), on allegations of rape and fraud, has generated much public discussion.
Zim Now has delved into the archives from 2014 to present Magaya’s key legal, financial, and public controversies and allegations based on publicly available sources without asserting guilt.
1. Legal and Criminal Allegations
HIV Cure Claim (2018–2019):
In 2018, Magaya announced he had discovered a cure for HIV/AIDS and cancer using a herbal remedy called Aguma. Zimbabwean health authorities condemned the claim. Police raided his premises, and in 2019 he pleaded guilty under the Medicines Control Act. He was convicted and fined US$700.
Sexual Abuse Allegations:
In 2016, Magaya was arrested for rape after a university student accused him, but the complainant later withdrew the charges, citing external threats. The case did not go to trial.
In 2019, further allegations surfaced from named accusers, prompting the Zimbabwe Gender Commission to investigate. Magaya sought to block the probe but lost his appeal at the Supreme Court in 2021, which upheld the Commission’s authority.
On November 1, 2025, Magaya was arrested by the Zimbabwe Republic Police in connection with multiple allegations of rape and fraud. Investigations are ongoing.
2. Financial Controversies and Debt Issues
Housing Project (2016–Present):
Through Planet Africa, Magaya promised affordable residential stands. Despite collecting deposits from hundreds of congregants, including Zimbabwean diaspora members, many never received land or refunds. Legal action has been initiated by some investors.
Mining Scheme (2017–2019):
Magaya’s followers invested in a gold mining venture through Yadah Connect, with expectations of high returns. Years later, several investors reported they had not received either profits or their initial capital. Formal demands for repayment were issued in 2024.
Creditor Disputes and Property Seizures:
In 2020, a supplier accused Magaya’s company of defaulting on US$30,000 in equipment payments. In 2015, a couple sued him for nearly $2 million after seeding luxury items to his ministry. In 2025, a key Planet Africa property was auctioned after a creditor lawsuit, with competing claims from a Chinese contractor.
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Tax Disputes:
In 2018, ZIMRA raided Magaya’s businesses over suspected tax evasion. In 2019, they garnished PHD Ministries’ accounts over US$22 million in unpaid taxes. As of 2021, tax collection efforts were still active.
3. Public and Media Incidents
Stadium Capacity Claim (2023):
Magaya presented his Heart Stadium as a 5,000-seater during its public launch, a figure repeated by media and President Mnangagwa. A Zim Now inspection established capacity to be under 2,000 at around 1,580 seats.
Magaya’s organisation never challenged the Zim Now assertion and declined to respond to questions on the matter. https://zimbabwenow.co.zw/articles/13353/magayas-stadium-sham
Kwekwe Stampede (2014):
Eleven people died during a Magaya-led crusade due to overcrowding and closed exits. The tragedy sparked national concern about event safety at mass religious gatherings.
Bev Sibanda Incident (2014):
Magaya publicly converted dancer Bev Sibanda and supported her new business. Months later, she resumed dancing and filed a police report alleging harassment by his security team over her defection from the church.
Apostolic Sects Dispute (2015):
Magaya claimed Apostolic sects were influenced by marine spirits. The backlash prompted government intervention and warnings from political leaders. Magaya stepped back.
Media Lawsuit (2014):
Magaya sued Alpha Media for $20 million over a critical article, alleging defamation. Media outlets have described him as controversial and associated with the prosperity gospel.
4. Football and ZIFA Bid
Magaya has been active in Zimbabwean football, owning Yadah FC and donating to the national team. In 2023, he launched a bid to become ZIFA president but was disqualified for not meeting minimum academic requirements. His legal challenge to overturn the decision was dismissed by the High Court in 2025.
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