Minister Tatenda Mavetera Denies Fake News Allegations Over Viral Dance Video

Minister of Information, Communication, Technology and Courier Services, Tatenda Mavetera, has dismissed allegations linking her to a viral video of floor twerking at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF).

The video, which has sparked widespread debate, features a woman in a black formal outfit engaging in the dance while on her hands and knees, joined by another woman dressed in the national fabric.

Together, they perform to Sekuru Gudo’s song Weru while being cheered on by a lively crowd.

Journalist Hopewell Chin’ono shared the footage on X, criticizing Mavetera’s alleged involvement and questioning the appropriateness of such behavior for a government minister.

He compared the incident to the dignity of Zimbabwe’s first Tourism Minister, Victoria Chitepo, suggesting she would be dismayed.

In his post, Chin’ono wrote, “Zimbabwe’s first Minister of Tourism was Victoria Chitepo. I wonder what she would make of today’s Minister of ICT, Tatenda Mavetera, presiding over these shameful acts by groups like Young Women 4 ED and ZANU-PF’s women in business at ZITF”.

Mavetera responded to the allegations, firmly denying her involvement and accusing Chin’ono of spreading misinformation.

iHarare reports that she clarified the video does not feature members of Young Women 4 ED, the group she leads and urged Chin’ono to verify facts before making accusations.

In her statement, Mavetera said, “Point of correction, please note that I only preside over Young Women 4 ED, which is not captured in this video you reference.

Why is my name Mavetera in your tweet? You always say you are trained to verify these things before posting.

We do not expect your calibre to be pushing fake news and false narratives.”