A storm is brewing at Bubi Valley Conservancy in Beitbridge following serious allegations against a security manager, who is accused of sexually abusing several employees.
The conservancy, known for its recreational and leisure offerings, now finds its reputation under threat over Raphael Ruzvidzo’s alleged predatory behaviour that has sparked anger among staff and the local community.
Multiple sources claimed that Ruzvidzo has a long-standing pattern of sexually harassing female subordinates, reportedly abusing his position to manipulate and intimidate them.
Employees alleged that he frequently threatened to terminate the contracts of those who resisted his advances.
Insiders said Ruzvidzo has fostered a culture of fear within the conservancy by wielding his authority to silence critics with threats to terminate their contracts.
One female employee, who allegedly fell victim to his conduct, described how her professional life deteriorated after she rejected his advances.
“I love working in the park, but things changed with this manager,” she said.
“After I told him I am a married woman who deserves respect, my work life has never been good," she said.
- ‘Predator’ security manager accused of sexual abuse
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“People are afraid to speak up. It’s like walking on eggshells every day.”
Despite multiple reports made to upper management, there has been no visible action taken to address Ruzvidzo’s misconduct, leaving many employees disillusioned and afraid.
Since the whistleblower came forward, several other female workers have also spoken up.
One former housekeeper said she was eventually forced to leave her job and return to her rural home in Lupane due to continued pressure and fear.
Attempts to get a response from Ruzvidzo himself were unsuccessful as he was not answering his mobile phone.
However, when reached for comment, human resources manager Corrina Wardley dismissed the allegations and abruptly ended the call.
However, Southern Eye has it on good authority that Ruzvidzo has privately reached out to some victims trying to apologise.
The scandal has caught the attention of local advocacy group Empowered Women in Employment.
The group's programmes coordinator Tiyani Tshifudze did not mince words:
“No worker should endure abuse of any form, especially in a place that should embody the values of respect in the community,” he said.
“We stand firmly with the employees and demand immediate action from management.”
A local resident, who asked not to be named for fear of reprisal, spoke candidly about the disturbing situation:
“We heard there is a manager who abuses workers, including women who do not have power to stand for themselves,” the resident said.
“He abuses the husbands of females who would have refused to sleep with him.”
Bubi Valley Conservancy continues to be a popular destination for local and international tourists for game drives and hunting families.
