Tatenda Mavetera, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Information, Communication and Technology, is facing serious allegations of academic fraud.
Investigative platform DugUp claims that Mavetera hired an academic from Mutare to write her PhD dissertation, allegedly with the help of her Midlands State University (MSU) supervisor.
“On Tuesday, February 18, DugUp sent questions to Tatenda Mavetera, the Minister of ICT. On Wednesday, February 19, she sent veiled threats that implied she knew where to find our Lead Producer, Maynard Manyowa,” a representative stated.
Mavetera reportedly misuses the title “Dr.” despite an honorary degree from a disqualified institution, the International Institution of Philanthropy (IIP), which was banned by the Zimbabwe High Court from issuing degrees.
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The political implications of these allegations have raised concerns, particularly after Mavetera allegedly threatened DugUp’s Lead Producer when questioned about the claims.
Mavetera has been accused of utilizing a ghostwriter for her PhD, which has led to further scrutiny of her academic integrity.
Although MSU confirmed her enrollment, they did not address the ghostwriting allegations directly.
Calls for a thorough investigation into her credentials and academic practices have intensified, with critics urging the university to uphold academic standards and investigate the claims of misconduct.
As of now, the Zimbabwean government has not issued a response regarding these serious allegations against Minister Mavetera.
