A community in Masvingo is on high alert following the mysterious disappearance of a young pupil from Francis Aphiri Primary School. Anashe Mazhandu, a Grade 4 learner, went missing on the morning of September 11, 2025, sparking concern among her family, classmates, and teachers.
According to reports, Anashe was last seen around 6:30 a.m. when she left her home in the Mufamba area of Victoria Ranch to attend school at Francis Aphiri Primary. She was dressed in her school tracksuit and wore a sunhat, as described by her family. Since her disappearance, frantic searches and inquiries have been ongoing, but so far, no trace of the 10-year-old has been found.
Her sister, Annah Mazhandu, told Masvingo Mirror that the family first realized something was wrong when a classmate asked about Anashe’s absence. “We got worried when her classmate came inquiring as to why Anashe didn’t come to Francis Aphiri school. We asked around, but no one has seen her. We have also inquired from friends and relatives, and nothing has come up,” Annah said.
The family has since made an urgent appeal to the public for assistance in locating Anashe. They urged anyone with information about her whereabouts to come forward and contact them directly on 0787543440 or 0783680518. Members of the public can also reach out through the Masvingo Mirror helpline on 0775 036 812 or 0716 895 703.
Pupil Goes Missing at Francis Aphiri School
Anashe’s disappearance has left the Victoria Ranch community deeply worried. Residents describe her as a cheerful and well-behaved child, who is well-liked by classmates and neighbours alike. Local parents have expressed concern about the safety of children in the area, calling for increased vigilance and community cooperation to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Teachers at Francis Aphiri Primary School confirmed that Anashe did not report to class that morning. The school has reportedly mobilized staff and students to help search the surrounding neighbourhoods, while also coordinating with local authorities.
“It is unusual for a child like Anashe not to come to school without informing anyone. We are working closely with her family and the community to ensure that every effort is made to locate her as quickly as possible,” a school official said.
Local law enforcement has also been involved in the search. Officers have been canvassing nearby streets, speaking with neighbours, and following up on any tips that may provide leads. The police have appealed to the public to provide information that could assist in finding the missing pupil, urging people not to keep quiet if they know anything.
Community members have also joined in, forming search parties to cover the areas surrounding Mufamba and other parts of Victoria Ranch. Social media platforms have been flooded with posts urging anyone with information about Anashe to come forward, with photos and descriptions of the child shared widely in hopes of reaching as many people as possible.
The incident has reignited debates about child safety in Masvingo. Parents and community leaders are calling for stricter supervision of young learners, especially during the morning commute to school. Many stress the importance of having children travel in groups and maintaining regular communication with schools to prevent similar disappearances.
“We cannot afford to be complacent. Every child’s life is precious, and we must do everything possible to ensure their safety,” said one concerned parent.
While the community remains anxious, authorities have urged residents to stay calm and continue assisting with the search in a coordinated manner. They emphasised the importance of following proper channels when reporting sightings or information to avoid spreading false rumours that could complicate rescue efforts.
The family remains hopeful that Anashe will be found safe and unharmed. “We are praying and hoping that someone will come forward with information. We just want our little sister back,” said Annah Mazhandu.
Anyone with information regarding Anashe’s whereabouts is urged to contact the family directly on 0787543440 or 0783680518. Alternatively, the Masvingo Mirror helpline is also available at 0775 036 812 or 0716 895 703.
As the search continues, neighbours, friends, and local authorities remain united in the effort to locate Anashe and bring her safely back home. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance, community solidarity, and rapid action when a child goes missing.
Source – Masvingo mirror
