A strange fire has been burning continuously at a house in Chegutu’s Kaguvi Phase IV suburb since last week, drawing attention and concern from local residents and authorities.
The affected home belongs to a member of the Johane Masowe Apostolic Church. According to Chegutu Deputy Mayor Edward Dzeka, the fire began under unusual circumstances and has proven resistant to conventional methods of extinguishing. He is now calling on spiritual leaders and clergy for help in dealing with the unexplained phenomenon.
“I saw it with my own eyes. This isn’t something our Fire Brigade can resolve,” Dzeka said. “It reportedly began in a refrigerator, then spread to a broom and a church robe the homeowner was planning to wear for prayers.”
Much of the household property has since been removed, although some burned items, including a mattress, remain visible in the yard. The incident has become a local spectacle, attracting many onlookers from nearby areas.
Gift Chikaka, a spokesperson for the Chegutu Municipal Council, confirmed that the local fire services had attended the scene. Although no active flames were present upon their arrival, evidence of a recent fire—including soot and ashes—was found.
A neighbor, who introduced herself only as Chihera, speculated that the fire might be linked to spiritual or supernatural causes, hinting at the use of charms allegedly associated with the pursuit of wealth.
“People should work hard and avoid shortcuts to prosperity,” she said. “Pretending to be pious while engaging in questionable practices can have serious consequences. This situation should serve as a warning.”
Chihera also claimed that attempts to put out the fire using anointing water provided by church figures had failed. In fact, according to her, the flames intensified after the water was applied.
The homeowner has not made any public statements regarding the incident.
Kuno ku Chegutu mu ward 12 kune manenji arikuitika. Pane imwe imba zvinhu zvirikungotsva. Moto urikungobaka wega. Ukadzimwa unotanga kubaka futi pane imwe futi nhumbi kana mudziyo. @ChangeRadioZW @NewZimbabweCom pic.twitter.com/pxHM7v58Mi
— Councillor Edward Dzeka (@dzeka_edward) May 14, 2025
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