Zimbabwe’s government is under growing pressure to tighten regulations on traditional healers, including prophets and spiritualists, following disturbing reports of fraud, abuse, and dangerous rituals. The call comes after recent media coverage revealed self-proclaimed healers claiming to send bees to attack people as a form of spiritual punishment, raising serious concerns about public safety and accountability.
Videos circulating on platforms like Facebook show individuals being surrounded by swarms of bees, with some prophets claiming to control the insects using spiritual powers. Investigations by Kwayedza found that some of these “healers” offer money to paid actors for staged testimonials, falsely accusing others of witchcraft or supernatural offenses. Others are allegedly using a queen bee ritual to attract bees without stinging, further misleading vulnerable citizens.
Prominent Chitungwiza-based prophet Miracle Paul has called for urgent action, saying the absence of firm regulation has created an environment for exploitation. “Anyone can set up a shrine in the bush, gather people, and claim to heal, without background checks or accountability. Some of these so called prophets may even be criminals in hiding,” he warned. He urged the Traditional Medical Practitioners Council of Zimbabwe (TMPC) to enforce strict licensing and oversight.
TMPC administrator Freeman Kanodeweta confirmed that complaints from the public about fraudulent healers have been escalating. He stated that registered practitioners must follow existing regulations and that enforcement is carried out jointly with law enforcement agencies. However, some communities remain complicit, with local leaders allegedly collaborating with unregistered healers to extort money from villagers under false pretenses.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi also sounded the alarm, warning citizens not to invite unknown prophets or healers into their homes. “We’re seeing cases of rape, poisoning, and theft disguised as spiritual healing. If you suspect criminal activity or have been exploited, report immediately to your nearest police station,” he said. The authorities are urging the public to verify credentials and avoid engaging with unregistered spiritual practitioners.
