Lawson Chiwara: Words, Learning, and Life

Zaka-The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority vowed to act after a rogue hippopotamus began terrorizing Danda—but days later, their trucks are nowhere in sight. Spotted near Danda Primary School on Tuesday, the three-year-old hippo has since trampled crops and put lives at risk, while villagers wait in vain for the help they were promised. When contacted earlier this week, the Authority assured residents they were on their way to capture the animal. Yet, as of today, no rangers have arrived. Farmer Temba Ncube, whose maize and sorghum fields were devoured, is reeling. “They said they’d come, but my crops are gone, and I’m left with nothing,” he said. At the school, Headmaster Mr Vakai has resorted to escorting students home himself. “I can’t trust their words when my learners are in danger,” he said. Villagers are fed up. “We were told help was coming—where is it?” demanded resident Maria Moyo. “This hippo could kill someone while they drag their feet.” Village head John Du...

Teaching English in rural Zimbabwe has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my career. At Danda Secondary School, I’ve honed resilience, creativity, and adaptability, turning challenges into opportunities. In 2024, I boosted pass rates from 9% to 28.9% by crafting tailored lessons for diverse learners despite limited resources. Now, as I pursue ESL certification, I’m eager to bring these skills to international schools—especially in vibrant hubs like the UAE. My journalism experience sharpens my teaching, equipping me to guide students in effective writing and critical thinking, skills vital in today’s world. I’m ready for the next step: to inspire global classrooms and empower students to reach their potential. The lessons from rural Zimbabwe have prepared me to make a difference, wherever the journey takes me.

The Silence is Broken: My Journey Through Writer's Block It's been 40 days and 40 nights since I last shared my thoughts with you on this blog. My last post was on October 18, 2024, and I know some of you may have been wondering what happened. The Blank Page Stared Back at Me Every day, I would sit in front of my computer, staring at the blank page, waiting for inspiration to strike. But the words wouldn't come. The ideas that once flowed effortlessly seemed to have dried up, leaving me feeling frustrated, desperate, and disconnected from my passion. The Struggle is Real As the days turned into weeks, and the weeks into months, I found myself making excuses for not writing. I'd tell myself that I was too busy or that I needed a break, but deep down, I knew I was struggling to find my voice again. Breaking the Silence Today, I've decided to break the silence. I've realized that writer's block is a normal part of the writing process, and the only way to overco...

Expert Zimsec English Teacher Seeking International Opportunities As a seasoned educator with 10+ years of experience, I've successfully guided students through Zimsec English Language and Literature exams. My expertise includes: Zimsec English syllabi Exam preparation strategies Marking and assessment Now, I'm eager to share my knowledge globally! Seeking international teaching opportunities in: English Language/Literature Exam prep and assessment Curriculum development Let's connect!

Shadows in the Dark Chiwara Lawson  Chapter 1 - 1302 hours, Mkoba 18, Gweru, Zimbabwe In the industrious heart of Mkoba 18, Amon Chisungo's workshop stood as a testament to perseverance. His son, Michael, a 24-year-old journalism graduate, was there, his hands begrudgingly busy with manual labor instead of the investigative work he was trained for. The lack of job opportunities had tethered him to his father's trade, each spray-painted chair a reminder of his unutilized potential. Michaela, his sister, was the embodiment of focus, her eyes scanning the lines of her textbooks as she prepared for her Zimsec Olevel Examinations. Her aspirations were pinned on the hope of higher education, a path she wished to tread without stumbling over the obstacles that had hindered her brother. Their father, Amon, approached Michael with a look of understanding. "Son, your degree is a powerful tool, and this workshop... it's just a stepping stone." Michael, pausing hi...

Rekindling the Flame By Chiwara Lawson  In the vibrant Mkoba townships, where the scent of braai smoke and freshly baked bread filled the air, Kuda and Nomsa's love was once a beacon of hope, shining bright like a sunset over the rolling hills. But as Kuda's social media influence grew, their relationship began to fade like a dying ember, leaving Nomsa feeling neglected and uncherished. One day, Nomsa confronted Kuda, her voice trembling like a leaf in the wind. "I feel like I'm losing you, Kuda. You're always 'on' for your followers, but what about me? What about our love?" Kuda listened, his heart heavy with regret, and realized he needed to make a change. With newfound determination, Kuda began to prioritize his relationship. He started by actively listening to Nomsa, engaging in meaningful conversations, and seeking help for his sexual struggles. He took steps to address his performance issues, understanding that his body and mind were ...

"The Eternal Vigil: God's Unwavering Watch" By Chiwara Lawson  God, the Creator, was exhausted, His divine energy drained from sustaining the universe for eternity.  He had witnessed the birth and death of stars, the rise and fall of civilizations, and the joys and sorrows of His children. He had loved them all, but also felt their pain and suffering, endured their prayers and curses, their praise and blasphemy, their faith and doubt. God longed for a moment of rest, a brief escape from His endless responsibilities. "I wonder what it would be like to close My eyes and drift into oblivion, to let go of My control and trust in My creation," God thought to Himself, His mind weary from the weight of eternity. "I wonder if I would dream, and what I would dream of. I wonder if I would wake up, and what I would find when I did." But God knew He could not sleep. He was God, after all. He was the source of all existence, the alpha and the omega, the beginning a...