The Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZIMSTAT) has appointed economist Tafadzwa Bandama as its new Director-General, replacing Taguma Mahonde, who was suspended last year due to fraud allegations.
Mahonde faces charges for allegedly claiming a US$4,000 school fees allowance for a non-existent child. Prosecutors claim he misrepresented his family size to receive increased benefits, violating the Prevention of Corruption Act and obstructing justice.
The agency believes Bandama will bring extensive experience to her new role, having worked with the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries, and the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office.
ZIMSTAT said Bandama’s expertise in macroeconomics, statistics, and policy analysis will be valuable assets to the agency.
The agency’s board chairman, John Mafararikwa, announced Bandama’s appointment, citing her wealth of experience and significant contributions to the field of economics.
“The Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency Board of Directors, in accordance with Section 9 of the Census and Statistics Act, (Cap 10:29) and Section 17 of the Public Entities Corporate Governance Act, (Cap 10:31), is pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs. Tafadzwa Martia Bandama as the new Director-General of the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZIMSTAT), with immediate effect,” Mafararikwa stated.
“Mrs Bandama brings a wealth of experience to this role, having established herself as a seasoned economist with a specialization in macroeconomics. Her expertise encompasses statistics, central banking, policy analysis, and data-driven insights.
“Prior to her appointment, Mrs Bandama held key positions at the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries, ZIMSTAT, and the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office.
“Her professional journey is marked by significant contributions to the field of economics, including the successful direction of ZIMSTAT’s macroeconomics statistics production during the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Mahonde is out of custody on US$200 bail after being arrested by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC).
Before the arrest, he tried to cover up the offense by refunding ZWL756 047.33. The refund was only worth US$826.
Investigations by Nehanda Radio uncovered shocking allegations of abuse of authority against Mahonde. He allegedly exploited his position to receive lucrative benefits, including school fees allowances and top-of-the-line vehicles.
Mahonde’s questionable transactions include purchasing his service car, a Toyota Land Cruiser, for a staggering US$300, a fraction of its true value, after three years of service.
Additionally, he acquired a Land Rover Discovery in 2021, resulting in ownership of two vehicles in just five years.
This was happening at a time when ZIMSTAT was failing to pay its employees.
