Deans

Precious Hove is the dean for faculty of Management and Entrepreneurial Sciences at Women University in Africa, Zimbabwe.  Precious Hove holds a Doctorate degree in Business Management obtained from Witwatersrand, South Africa, a Master’s degree in Strategic Management, obtained from Chinhoyi University of Technology, an Honors degree in Business Management obtained at Midlands State University and a Diploma in Education, obtained from the University of Zimbabwe. Precious possess leadership skills and promotes team spirit at work.  She is a an honest person with confidence in her work. Precious is a woman of integrity.   Over the years, Precious has developed interest in business management, new product developments, entrepreneurship and knowledge management.  She has co-authored several publications in those areas. Precious has over 15 years’ experience at Universities.

Executive Director – Marondera Campus, and Dean – Faculty of Agricultural Environmental and Health Sciences.

Dr Muziri holds a PhD in Horticultural Sciences from Stellenbosch University, an MSc in Crop Production from Africa University and a BSc in Crop Science from the University of Zimbabwe. Dr Muziri has university experience spanning 23 years. Prior to joining Women’s University in Africa, Dr Muziri lectured for 15 years at the Midlands State University where he served in the following positions: Chairperson of Department (5 years), Deputy Dean (4 years) and Acting Executive Dean (1.5 years). He was also appointed Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Horticulture at Stellenbosch University in 2016, Visiting Scholar at Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium, in 2013 & 2014. He served as a Sabbatical Fellow at Livingstonia University in 2024, where he taught diploma and degree students.

Dr Muziri has received and managed many grants for research and community developments. He was part of concept note and proposal development for three (3) multisectoral development projects proposals, one of which culminated in the Sizimele Action for Resilience Building, funded under the Zimbabwe Resilience Building Fund (ZRBF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). He was Co-Principal Investigator in the Beneficiation and Commercialization of Indigenous Fruit and Herbs Project funded by the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development. Dr Muziri was the lead in the proposal development for the Holy Cross Irrigation project, in Chirumanzu, and led its implementation for the first 11 months. Dr Muziri is also the 2024 recipient of the Seeding Labs equipment (Boston, USA).

Dr Muziri has extensive international experience and exposure in higher education. He has presented academic papers in India, Belgium, South Africa, Malawi, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, and Botswana. He has also conducted academic visits to the India Institute for Horticulture Technology, the Proefcentrum Fruitteelt Research Center in Snt Truiden (Belgium), the Departments of Horticulture at Universities of South Africa, University of Swaziland and the Greenhouse Technologies in Botswana, where he was a consultant in mushroom production and hydroponics. Dr Muziri coordinated the introduction of Quinoa to Zimbabwe, managing the process of post entry quarantine and roll out to farmers. Dr Muziri’s current research interests are in the area of fruit science, postharvest biology, export horticulture and value addition.

Publications
Muziri, T, Theron, K.I., Cantre, D., Zi Wang, Verboven, P., Nicolai, B.M and Crouch, E.M. 2016. Microstructure analysis and detection of mealiness in ‘Forelle’ by means of X-ray computed tomography. Postharvest Biology and Technology, 120: 145-156.
Muziri T., Karen Theron., Nieuwoudt, H. H., L. Schoeman., E. M Crouch. 2018. Mealiness in ‘Forelle’ pear: relationship with TSS and its prediction based on FT-NIR spectroscopy. Acta Hortic, DOI. 10.17660/ActaHortic.2018.1201.46. p 339-346
Mangezi S, Manjeru P, Makuvaro V, Chaibva P, Mutetwa M and Muziri T (2026) Cattle manure amended soil influences germination and early seedling development of marula (Sclerocarya birrea (A. Rich) Hochst.). Front. Food Sci. Technol. 5:1734009. doi: 10.3389/frfst.2025.1734009.
Mlambo, N., Chifamba, M., Mhlahlayazi, T., Mwabvu, B., Chaginda, I., Madanzi, T., Takawira, M., Muziri, T. 2026. Influence of fruit maturity and slimy seed coat on seed traits and germination of horned melon (Cucumis metuliferus E. Mey. Ex Schrad.). Sci Rep (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-40932-6 (In press).
Moses Mutetwa, Pepukai Manjeru, Tendai Madanzi, Tavagwisa Muziri. 2025. Commercial Assessment of Horned Melon (Cucumis metuliferus) Cultivation in Local Economic Development and Social Well-being in Rural Livelihood of Zimbabwe. Agricultural Reviews. DOI:10.18805/ag.RF-400.

Mutetwa, M., Manjeru, P., Chaibva, P., Makaure, B., Chandiposha, M., Madanzi, T., Makuvaro, V., Muziri, T. (2025). Optimizing nitrogen fertilizer levels for improved growth, yield, and fruit quality in horned melon (Cucumis metuliferus E. Mey. ex Naudin). EUREKA: Life Sciences, 2, 3–13. https://doi.org/10.21303/2504-5695.2025.003878.

Tavagwisa Muziri, Pahla Innocent, Fanuel Tagwira. 2026. Effects of Municipal Phosphocompost on Groundnut Growth, Yield and Residual Soil Phosphorous. Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. (Accepted October 2024).

Paul Chaibva., Cecil Mugala, Veronica Makuvaro, Tavagwisa Muziri, Ignatious Chagonda, Blessing Mirika Ndau. 2023. Adaptability analysis of quinoa cultivation: A case study of Zimbabwe. Geographical Information Bulletin, Vol 2, pp 144 – 157. DOI: https://doi.org/10.50908/grb.2.0_144.

Moses Mutetwa., Ignatious Chagonda, Tadzwa Gwaziwa, Pamela Mangezi, Tapfumaneyi Midzi, Lawrence Sithole, Taurira Mtaita, Johnson Masaka and Tavagwisa Muziri. 2022. Effect of Trichoderma- Based Biofertilisers on the Flower and Fruit Pattern of Horned Melon (Cucumis metuliferus E. Mey. Ex. Naudin. International Journal of Agronomy. Volume 2022, Article ID 6866853.

Dube, O., Mudada, N., Gama T., Muziri T. 2022. A survey of Insect Pests Attacking Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) and their Natural Enemies in Zimbabwe. Journal of Plant Sciences. Vol 10, No 3, pp 91 – 95.

Tavagwisa Muziri., Paul Chaibva., Chofamba Anyway., Madanzi Tendai., Manjeru Pepukai., Mudada Nhamo., Manhokwe Sherpard., Mugari Amiel., Diego Matsvange., Murewi Cyril Tapiwa Farai., Liboster Mwadzingeni, Raymond Mugandani. 2020. Using principal component analysis to explore consumers’ perception toward quinoa health and nutritional claims in Gweru, Zimbabwe. Food Sci. Nutr. 2020. 00: 1-9. https://doi.org/10.1002/fsn3.2071.

John Nyoni., Tendai Madanzi., Joanah Midzi., Tavagwisa Muziri., Kapenzi Arnold. 2020. Response of Sweet Wormwood ( Artemisia annua L.) to Different Rates of Inorganic Nitrogen Fertilizer in Semi-Arid Zimbabwe. American Journal of Plant Sciences 11(04):529-537.

Ncumalo, KA, Masarirambi, MT., Mabuza, M., Muziri T., Masirirambi, T. 2017. Common physiological disorders of white / Irish Potato (Solanum tuberosum) tubers produced in Swaziland: A review. J. Agron. Agri Sci 1: 001.
Pahla, I., Tagwira, F., Muziri, T. and Chitamba, J. 2014.. Effects of pH, nitrogen and phosphorus on the establishment and growth of Moringa oleifera. International Journal of Agriculture and Forestry 2014, 4(3): 211-216.
Pahla, I., Muziri, T., Chinyise, T., Muzemu, S. and Chitamba, J. 2014. Effects of soil type and different pre-sowing treatments on seed germination and seedling vigour of Acacia sieberana. International Journal of Plant Research, 4 (2): 51-55.
Innocent Pahla, Martin Moyo, Simbarashe Muzemu, Tavagwisa Muziri. 2014. Evaluating the effectiveness of botanical sprays in controlling aphids (Brevicoryne brassicae) on rape (Brassica napus L.), International Journal of Agronomy and Agricultural Research, 5(1): 1-6.
Muziri, T., Theron, K. I and E. M. Crouch. 2013. ‘Forelle’ pear mealiness development as influenced by cell size. Acta Hortic. 1094: 515-523.
Pahla1, I., Muziri, T., Muzemu, S. and Chiedza, C. 2013. Effect of different sucrose concentrations on the vase life of different protea cultivars (Protea leucadendron and leucospermum). International Journal of Biosciences. 3(9): 208-213.
Mudzingwa, S. K., Muziri, T. 2013. Evaluation of selected crude aqueous botanical extracts against sap-sucking pests in vegetable production. Proceedings of the First International Conference on Pesticidal Plants, Vol 1. ISBN: 978-9966-033-00-0.
Madanzi, T., Chiduza, C., Richardson Kageler, S. J and T. Muziri. 2012. Effects of different plant populations on yield of different soyabean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) Varieties in a smallholder sector of Zimbabwe. Journal of Agronomy, 11 (1): 9 -16.
Madhara Temba Mabarani, James Chitamba and Tavagwisa Muziri. 2012. Fresh leaf yield and flowering responses of Brassica juncea varieties to varying nitrogen levels. International Journal of Agronomy and Agricultural Research (IJAAR) ISSN: 2223-7054.
Muziri, T. 2009. Farm management challenges for a country in transition: A case of Zimbabwe. Journal of International Farm Management Vol 4(4). ISSN 18162495.
Published Book Chapters
Parwada, C., Gumbo, A., Muziri, T. (2026). Exploring the Potential of Marginalised Small Grains for Achieving Food Security Under Climate Change. In: Ndhlovu, E. (eds) Agriculture and Sustainable Development in Sub-Saharan Africa: Resilience and Recovery Toward Sustainable Futures. Sustainable Development Goals Series. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-032-09881-8_19.
Stanlake Mangezi, Pepukai Manjeru, Raymond Mugandani, Veronica Makuvaro, Paul Chaibva, Moses Mutetwa, Bester Tawona Mudereri, and Tavagwisa Muziri. 2026. Diversity of Indigenous Fruit Trees and Their Role in Supporting Resilient Livelihoods in Marginal Areas of Zimbabwe: Case of Chirumanzu, Chivi, and Mberengwa Districts. In: Leal Filho, W., Matandirotya, N., Yayeh Ayal, D., Luetz, J.M., Borsari, B. (eds) Climate Change, Food Security, and Land Management. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-71164-0_40-1.

Dr Itai Hlonie Mafa is a self-motivated and critical social worker who is enthusiastic about academia, gender issues, social policing, social justice and sexual and reproductive health rights. She has a proven record in social research and has been consulted for research projects in Zimbabwe and South Africa. Dr Mafa is involved in various research committees in the faculty which has sharpened her research skills. She has also accumulated more than ten years of extensive experience in tertiary institutions as a lecturer for various Social Work courses and carrying out post-graduate research supervision. Dr Itai Hlonie Mafa has a well-developed teaching philosophy and a flexible attitude to work, with excellent communication and written skills. Dr Mafa has participated in curricula development and curricula review in Zimbabwe and South Africa, contributing to quality assurance. She is the current NASW-Z treasurer, a thought leader for ZIMCHE and was also involved in consolidating MBKs.

• PhD in Social Work: University of Fort Hare (2015-2017)
• Master of Social Science Social Work: University of Fort Hare (2013-2014)
• Bachelor of Social Work: University of Fort Hare (2009–2012)
• HEXCO Computer programs: Mutendi High School (2001-2004)

Published articles

Mukurazhizha, R and Mafa, I. (2022). Flaws in preparing children with disabilities for life after Institutional Care in Zimbabwe: Implications for Social Work Practice. Journal of Social Development in Africa, 37

Chisango, T., Mafa I., & Maunganidze, L. (2022). Investigating the sexist implications of Bride Price (Lobola) in Zimbabwe. Society doi:10.1007/s12115-022-00743-7

Chigangaidze, R., Mafa, I., Simango, T and Mudewe, E. (2022). Establishing the relevance of the Ubuntu philosophy in Social work Practice: Inspired by the Ubuntu World Social Work Month 2021 Celebration and the IFSW (2014) global definition of Social work. International Social work:Doi:10.1177/00208728221078374

Chatukuta, A and Mafa, I. (2022). The significance of the clinical social workers’ dress in the helping process: The clients’ perceptions. Practice: Doi:10.1080/09503153.2022.2035706

Simango, T.G and Mafa, I. (2022). Child Disciplinary Practices versus Child Rights in Zimbabwe: Viewed through Social Work Lenses Qualitative Sociological Review 18 (1) 114-131 DOI: https://doi.org/10.18778/1733-8077.18.1.06

Charamba, S., Mafa, I and Chikadzi, V. (2021). ‘In the eye of the storm’: An exploration of the psychosocial experiences of teen mothers in Zimbabwe. Indian Journal of Social Work (82) 12

Mafa, I., Simango, T. and Chisango, T. (2021). Under-Reportage of ‘Sex-For-Marks’ Cases within Public Universities in Zimbabwe. Sexuality, Gender and Policy Doi:10.1002/SGP2.12038

Mafa, I and Simango, T.G. (2021). Exploring the ‘Thigh-For-Marks’ Phenomenon among Public Universities in Zimbabwe. Journal of Human Rights and Social Work https:/doi.org/10.1007/s41134-021-00188-8

Chisango, T., Muridzo, N., Mafa, I and Khombo, S. (2021). An exploration of the stereotype content model to university lectures. Journal of Applied Social Sciences https:/doi.org/10.1177/19367244211026915

Mafa, I. (2021). Pertinent ills concomitant with matrifocality in Zimbabwe: Implications for development. Innovare Journal of Social Sciences, 9 (2):10-15

Muridzo, N, Chikadzi, V., Mahunste S and Mafa, I. (2021). Legal shortcomings in the VFS forums responding to child sexual abuse: Lessons from a Zimbabwean case study. African Journal of Social Work 11(1): 32-39

Mafa, I., Kange’the S. and Chikadzi, V. (2020). ‘Revenge Pornography’ and Women Issues: Implications for Social Work Practice and Women’s Rights. Journal of Human Rights and Social Work, 5 (1) : 118-128 https://doi:10.1007/s41134-020-00118-0

Mahuntshe, L., Muridzo, N., Chikadzi, V and Mafa, I. (2020). Responding to the COVID-19 pandemic in Zimbabwe: Lessons from 2018 Cholera outbreak. Journal of Social Development in Africa, 35 (Special Issue): 91-106

Mafa, I and Kange’the, S. (2019).Women-NGOs and Financial Viability: Implications for Women Empowerment Processes from a Social Work Perspective. African Journal of Social Work, 9(2):43-51

Muridzo, N., Chikadzi, V., Mafa, I and Chinyenze, P. (2018). Parental Circumstances leading to Child Sexual Abuse in Zimbabwe. Journal of Social Development in Africa, 33(2):135-168

Mafa, I and Kange’the S.M. (2016). Exploring the Underpinnings of Pseudo-Prostitution in Institutions of Higher Learning in selected African countries. Journal of Sociology and Anthropology, 7(3):167-174

Mafa, I & Kange’the S.M. (2016). A critical Analysis of the prostitution phenomenon, drawing examples from selected African countries: A Literature Review. Journal of Sociology and Anthropology, 7(4):279-288

Kange’the S.M and Mafa I. (2014). Evaluating the survival strategies adopted by single mothers to enhance their livelihood in Zimbabwe. Mediterranean Journal, 5 (2): 1222-1229

Kange’the S.M and Mafa I. (2014). Dynamics associated with the state of cohabitation in developing countries. A literature Review. Mediterranean Journal, 5(4):601-609

Kange’the S.M and Mafa I. (2014). Assessing Post-Apartheid Poverty in South Africa. A literature Review. Mediterranean Journal, 5(1):449-456

Kange’the S.M and Mafa I. (2014). Dynamics associated with matrifocality in Zimbabwe. Journal of Sociology and Anthropology, 5(2):131-139

Published Book Chapter (s)

Mudewe, E., Simango, T., Mafa, I and Chingangaidze, R. (2022). Demystifying the National Case Management System in Child protection. In Professional Social Work in Zimbabwe: Putting Children First. Beyond the Vale Publishing: Edenvale, South Africa

Published Book (s)

Mafa, I. (2020). Identity and Identity Crisis: A Practical Guide to Finding Your True Self. Kindle Direct Publishing

Dr. Abigail Rudorwashe Benhura attained her PhD in Conflict, Transformation and Peace Studies from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa in 2017. She immediately enrolled for her Postdoctoral Studies with the same university until December 2018. She also holds an MSc in Development Studies from the Women’s University in Africa. During this period, she was also the University of KwaZulu-Natal coordinator of the Young Women’s Leadership Workshop, an African Gender Institute sponsored organization which brought together 7 universities from the SADC region. These universities tackled institutional gendered issues that mainly affected young female students during their study periods. She joined WUA in 2019 as a senior lecturer in Child Sensitive Social Policies where she rose to the position of the department’s coordinator before being appointed to the position of the Dean of Students in 2021.
As the Dean of Students, she sees to the general welfare of students which covers physical and mental health, counselling during bereavement, advice and moral support to students experiencing emotional stress. Her responsibilities also encompass facilitating students’ participation in sports, clubs and social activities, institutional governance and accommodation needs. During her tenure as the Dean of Students, the Department of Student Affairs has become more inclusive of students in WUA satellite campuses as they participate in a wide range of areas such as the Student Representative Council, clubs and societies, inter-institutional sports tournaments and national events. She facilitated the amendment of the SRC Constitution to include a Gender and Inclusion Secretary whose responsibility is to ensure that students’ diversity and needs are catered for such as disability-induced needs, mature students or single (mothers) parents’ unique needs as they pursue their studies. Various WUA teams have also reached varying levels of success in the highly competitive Zimbabwe Universities Sports Association (ZUSA), Zimbabwe Tertiary Institutions Sport Union (ZTISU) and Confederation of Universities and Colleges Sports Association (CUCSA), SAYWHAT Quiz and Debate.
In the academic arena, Dr Abigail Benhura is a seasoned researcher who has done extensive research on forced migration, with keen interest on the migrants’ lived realities, access to (or lack of) basic services and the general socio-political and economic implications of the populations’ involuntary mobility. Her doctoral research interrogated the provision of secondary school education in displaced communities in Zimbabwe. She has also made her mark in regional and international scientific research conferences where she presented papers predominantly in forced mobilities and more recently, in social protection policy and services. She has won grants, done collaborative and individual research on various topical issues such as gendered perspectives on the efficacy of social protection services, intersections of gender, disabilities and poverty in the informal sector as well as in the tourism sector.