EULOGY

Unfortunately, we have to start with sharing some sad news: Mr Geoff Hawskley very sadly passed away on 7th April 2026. Geoff joined the Rhodes Nygana Museum as a voluntary Treasurer in January 2013 and continued to support the museum until 2019. Our sincere condolences go to his family.

‘Geoff’, as he preferred to be called was born on 6th November 1935. He attended Ruzawi Prep School then followed in the footsteps of his two elder brothers’ to Plumtree School for Boys. He graduated from Gwebi Agricultural College where he was awarded Best Student of his year and later won a Nuffield Scholarship that gave him the opportunity to spend several months travelling and visiting farms overseas.

Geoff was a board member of the Seed Co-Op of Zimbabwe, his certificate as an Associate of the Royal Photographic Society, a photo with his fellow students and lecturers at Gwebi Agricultural College. He had a passion for history, wildlife, Dickens novels, law and wildlife photography. Later in life, while farming full time, he studied law in the evenings and at weekends: no small feat for a busy farmer

earning a Bachelor of Law degree. It was through his studies that he met Nanette his wife, who was one of his lecturers. It was while farming at Nyabira that he learned wildlife photography especially birds, a passion that stayed with him for the rest of his life. He went to Concession to continue farming next to his brother, John Hawskley, who tragically died. In memory of John, his brother, and the wider Hawksley family, Geoff commissioned a hide that still stands today overlooking Masuma Pan in Hwange National Park.

Geoff eventually retired, moved and settled into his weekend cottage in Juliasdale. Although he missed the farming life deeply, he quickly became a part of the community in Juliasdale, becoming known and loved by many over the years. He had a keen passion for local history and was actively involved with the Rhodes Memorial Museum in Nyanga. Geoff passed away peacefully in his sleep at 90 years of age.

Geoff was always a true gentleman who formed lifelong friendships across all generations.

Marshall Nyanhanda the curator at the museum worked with Geoff whom, he respected. He said that Mr Hawskley was a very kind man and would always bring him apples, plums, apricots and peaches to enjoy. The museum will remember him for all his great work that he did during his tenure as the Treasurer.

Rest well Mr Hawskley.

Donations

A big shout to Dawn Siemens, one of our Life members and Mr and Mrs Edgerten also life members for their recent donation.

It is thanks to special and generous people like this that assist the NTZ to continue its valuable work around Zimbabwe.

Very much appreciated!

Membership

We would very much like to thank Mr Thomas of Sustainable Afforestation Association for becoming our newest Corporate Member. Corporate membership allows for up to 6 individuals on the same subscription.

We look forward to welcoming and hosting you and you colleagues at one of beautiful sites soon.

Please do get in touch if your company would like to enjoy the many benefits of becoming a member including:

• Receiving our quarterly E-Newsletter
• Free entrance to NTZ properties in Zimbabwe
• Free access to overseas National Trusts with whom we have reciprocity See INTO ‘Passport to Places’ scheme

www.into.org /places/

• 10% off accommodation at La Rochelle Country Hotel. See larochellecentre.com

Tree Planting

We all need trees! As you are aware trees deliver so many different functions in the world including: combating climate change, providing a safe haven for biodiversity and wildlife habitats and food to a host of different species from mammals, birds to invertebrates. They improve human health for helping to purify the very air that we breath and provide us with food, medicine and shelter and are extremely good for our mental health and responsible for our landscapes. In short: trees are super heroes: our guardians. Trees are our health service and wildlife champions.

With this mind we are thrilled to announce that this year, for the very first time, the NTZ will be planting over 600 new trees at three key sites: At La Rochelle, Murahwa’s Hill and Worlds view. The tree species will be carefully selected for each of the different ecological conditions at the individual sites. Additionally, any invasive species will be removed before any new saplings are planted thus biodiversity will increase naturally. Mrs Clare Griffith’s who is much valued new Council Member, is managing the tree planting and she explained that each site will be visited beforehand and the exact location of planting will be agreed upon and mapped out. The field visit will take into consideration the abiotic factors will include: water, light, temperature, and soil, that interact with biotic factors in order influence the growth, survival, and reproduction of the trees and maintain ecosystem balance.

Even more important and significant Clare has managed to source ‘Heritage genetic seedlings’ for the NTZ. These are trees grown from seeds collected from trees that possess desirable, historical, or adapted traits such as superior growth, disease resistance, or resilience to local environmental stresses. Selected to ensure that new forests retain the genetic diversity and vigour of their ancestors and this is particularly critical when restoring local ecosystems.

The NTZ has a bold vision – to increase tree cover in Zimbabwe and we aim to make tree planting an annual event in the future. The seedlings are currently being propagated mainly in the Chimanimani and Chipinge districts.

INTO Tropical Gardens

The NTZ is a proud member of the new INTO Tropical Gardens network initiative and we have been selected to host our INTO colleagues and to showcase the work that is happening here. Two colleagues Mrs Helena Bennett and Mrs Martina Peters from St Helena arrive in May and we cannot wait to meet them. This is a fantastic opportunity that has arisen for the NTZ and our enormous thanks got to INTO for providing the funding to make this trip possible.

The focus of their visit is to talk about themes around Climate change adaptation and resilience, Shared colonial legacies and heritage. INTO Tropical gardens has a network theme that also includes community outreach and the revitalisation of native and ethnobotanical plant knowledge. Participants in the group expressed a strong desire to learn from one another, share best practices and explore how gardens can be tools for education, healing and cultural revival. During their five-day stay here our visitors will visit La Rochelle gardens and Worlds View properties.

INTO Conference

This year’s INTO conference will be held in Bavaria with the theme: ‘Places with purpose Community, connection and the case for heritage’. The annual INTO conferences bring together the global family of National Trusts to explore how heritage can serve communities, foster connection and shape a sustainable future.

We are thrilled to announce that the NTZ has received part funding from the INTO for a member of the Executive Council to attend the four day gathering which offers a vibrant mix of discussion, discovery and hands on learning shaped by the priorities of our global movement.

Four keynote speakers will explore big, future facing questions: What does it mean to be a National Trust today? How can heritage organisations plan for the long term in an increasingly polarised world? How can we build deeper, more meaningful connections between people, heritage and nature – benefiting both communities and the planet? How can we better understand the needs of the communities we wish to welcome?

The conferences are a good way for members to navigate challenges by exchanging experiences, building new connections, having light bulb moments and finding inspiration to move forward. In a digital age it is so good to actually meet people in the flesh all sharing a common interest and to build up a valuable network

The NTZ is so delighted to be able to represent Zimbabwe and to be part of the African delegation to which we are affiliated to highlight the Challenges faced around the continent. The NTZ is ever grateful for the continuing support and funding that INTO has provided us with.

New: Website

We have added two new areas onto our website: the first page is to show case and publicly thank the funders that have and continue to support the NTZ financially. We know you have a lot of choices when it comes to donating, and we are so grateful that you chose to donate to our cause. We have a lot of work to do, and your generous donation helps us get that important work done.

The second new area has been created to enable the NTZ to upload videos of our beautiful sites, visitors, events and also share our challenges. Please bear with us whilst we start to make the content and upload it.

We are delighted to share news on each of our properties with you.

La Rochelle Country House

We are pleased to report that La Rochelle country house and gardens are looking magnificent and recent upgrades include: the Managers house which has under gone a total upgrade, the irrigation and watering systems have been improved, a new smaller Boardroom facility has been built, the kitchen exhaust facilities have been up graded, there have been air conditioning installations, new carpets and upholstery of furniture. Very exciting is that the camping site has been rejuvenation creating a new visitor choice for people wishing to camp in the stunning gardens. The swimming pool has been refurbished redone, lawns have been re-planted and the Rose Gardens have been renovated. We do hope that you will come and enjoy all these new upgrades to the property. The gardens, nursery, and orchid assets remain a significant part of La Rochelle’s identity and heritage value. Here are photos of the fascinating and unique heritage orchids at La Rochelle.

It has to be said despite many challenges La Rochelle has remained operational throughout and has continued to invest significant effort into preserving estate standards, upgrading critical infrastructure, and sustaining the broader functionality of one of Zimbabwe’s most historically important heritage properties.

The challenges of running such a hotel commercially has been difficult due to a softer tourism demand, lower occupancy and continued pressure from infrastructure, maintenance, and security costs. A major driver of the occupancy decline has been the substantial reduction in USA and UK aid-funded NGO activity, which historically contributed meaningfully to La Rochelle’s conferencing, accommodation, and workshop business. The withdrawal or downsizing of this sector has materially impacted occupancy and conference revenues.

Alarmingly over the past four years, Zimbabwe has experienced an unprecedented increase in illegal artisanal mining around the country. La Rochelle is situated in Penhalonga which is no exception as it is located in the Mutare Greenstone Belt, which is one of the richest gold belts in Zimbabwe. The mountains of Penhalonga are the watershed of several rivers such as Mutare, Imbeza and Tsambe, that are currently swarmed with artisanal miners searching for alluvial gold. There have been several instances land grabbing and mineral exploitation in the whole Imbeza Valley.

The area is perilous where unregulated pits, collapsing shafts, and unsafe underground operations and many people have been seriously injured and lives have been lost as every descent into the pits is a gamble with death and carried out without safety gear, structural support, or emergency rescue systems on stand-by.

Illegal artisanal mines in the Penhalonga area

The environmental degradation is on a colossal scale and include: deforestation, over-stripping of overburden material, burning of bushes, use of harmful chemicals like mercury. This has led to the destruction of large tracts of land and river systems and ecosystem and polluted the Mutare River system.

Local residents have reported that the water in their streams has turned brown arising from mercury and cyanide deposits from artisanal gold mines detected in Lake Alexander, about 32 kilometres from the mines. Local communities are drinking highly contaminated water.

Gold panning processes on the river banks, beds and the surrounding areas discharge huge amounts of loose silt and heavy metals into the river system. Eventually these are washed into the dams, increasing the risk of siltation, flooding and drying up of water reservoirs

This situation continues to place increasing strain on both operations and the broader preservation of the NTZ flagship heritage asset. La Rochelle and the NTZ are actively working to prevent the encroachment on to the La Rochelle estate, we are talking to key government officials about the prevention of the environmental and health disaster that is happening on a daily basis very close to our flagship property. It is hoped that the law is followed and there is no breach of the legislation that states there is to be no mining on NTZ properties.

RHNE: A Tapestry of Zimbabwe’s Rich Heritage

Nestled in the scenic Nyanga district, the Rhodes Nyanga Museum stands as a testament to Zimbabwe’s multifaceted history and cultural richness. This hidden gem offers visitors a captivating journey through time, showcasing a diverse collection that weaves together the stories of legendary figures, colonial encounters, and the nation’s struggle for independence. At the heart of the museum’s collection is the history of Cecil John Rhodes, the British imperialist who played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s past. The museum’s displays include furniture and artefacts once owned by Rhodes, providing a tangible link to the era of colonial expansion.

Beyond the colonial era, the museum delves into Zimbabwe’s pre-colonial heritage, showcasing the traditions and achievements of the region’s indigenous peoples. Visitors can explore exhibits highlighting the country’s cultural heritage, including traditional crafts, music, and art.

The museum’s liberation heritage section pays tribute to Zimbabwe’s struggle for independence, featuring artefacts, photographs, and personal stories of those who fought for freedom. This poignant display serves as a reminder of the nation’s resilience and determination.

natural heritage section, which explores the unique ecosystems and wildlife of the Nyanga region. The museum’s commitment to preserving the environment and promoting conservation efforts is evident throughout this exhibit.

The Rhodes Nyanga Museum is more than just a repository of artefacts; it serves as a heritage hub for schools across the country. By providing interactive exhibits and educational programs, the museum is helping to shape the next generation’s understanding of their nation’s history and cultural identity.

In line with Zimbabwe’s heritage-based curriculum, the museum is working to enhance its displays and attract more visitors. The committee’s efforts aim to create a more immersive experience, allowing visitors to connect with the past and appreciate the complexities of Zimbabwe’s heritage.

As a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty, the Rhodes Nyanga Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to understand the essence of Zimbabwe. Come and experience the rich tapestry of this remarkable nation, and discover the stories that make it truly unique.

Roof repairs

In March Mr Hallowes was invited to the museum to undertake a ‘Building Infrastructure Condition Assessment Report’. The assessment was undertaken in order to evaluate the integrity of its infrastructure and heritage features. As a site of historical significance, the museum requires periodic evaluations to ensure both structural stability and functional usability. The assessment focused on key components, including the roof, walls, doors and windows, drainage systems, and ancillary elements such as fascia boards and eaves, with particular attention to degradation from water ingress, corrosion, timber decay, and masonry or plaster deterioration.

The report stated: that the RHNE has a gabled roof supported by mature gum timber beams and purlins. While much of the timber remains in good condition the north-eastern roof elevation features eaves below 200 mm, are allowing rainwater to seep into the walls and adversely affecting exterior and interior finishes, contributing to the dampness, paint deterioration, and potential long-term structural damage.

Additionally, the wall plate in the museum office has deteriorated and requires replacement to ensure proper roof support. Overall, the roof and ceiling are in a deteriorated condition and there is an urgent need for maintenance and rehabilitation to preserve structural integrity and protect the building’s historical artifacts and monuments at risk and raising serious conservation concerns. The proposed roof repairs will enhance visitor experience. The RNHE museum receives many visitors locally (especially school children) and also visitors regionally and internationally. The NTZ has submitted a proposal requesting funding, so please keep your fingers crossed that the proposal is accepted and we can go ahead and make the necessary repairs.

Easter Fair

The museum held an Easter fair that was different from the usual crafts sales and a speaker on a subject of local interest. This year’s fair focused on plants, flowers and gardens. Stall holders sold gardening books and accessories, plants, shrubs and flowers. There were also fruit and vegetable stalls and home-made soaps.

We are pleased to report that the fair was a success. We had 250 visitors to the fair!

The Museum wish to change the displays and artefacts regularly, some after 6 months and other after year, to give our visitors a wider range of materials to see. The university students on yearly placements are a great resource to the Museum.

Mabukuwene

Mabukuwene is alive and inviting. The aloes are revealing their annual flowering, firm and full of juice, prickly pears shine in bright flowers and the green lantana camara is overshadowed by the thick tall grasses and wild flowers nourished by rains that have drenched Bulawayo over the past three months.

The clearing of the lantana camara is an ongoing task, teams of fit, young men have cut, slashed and poisoned this invasive weed throughout the property and some uprooting has been done, a labour of love which has been continual since mid 2016.

Our huge thanks to the sponsorship of the Meikles Trust (MT), which has facilitated the clearing of the highly invasive weed and the general upkeep of the property. The MT has funded salaries for two workers as well as casual workers that come in annually to help with the lantana camara clearing, the purchasing of brush cutters and spares, protective gear, herbicides to kill the weed and tools.

The team has been hard at work. Footpaths have been cleared around the entire property enabling easy access around Mabukuwene. A fire guard is in place and the fences have been mended where they were breached by people coming in to gather firewood and to poach the rock dassies and guinea fowl on the property. With 2 employees living on the property, there have been no incidents of unwanted visitors for quite some time.

The revamped ‘cottage’/hall/meeting place, ablutions, lookout, are in good order and the water situation for this area and the staff quarters is under control.

The Meikles family cemetery on the property is well maintained and recently two family members were interred on the property.

Consideration is to be made to attract school groups and environment societies for educational tours and meetings at Mabukuwene. In the past we have hosted the Birdlife of Zimbabwe, the Aloe Society and the Spider Club of Zimbabwe as well as the History Society. In addition, we could consider other light activities like limited lectures and small group meetings where people could use the ‘meeting place’.

Besides this there are opportunities to involve universities to do research on the biodiversity of the garden which is rich in bird life, small mammals, dassies, guinea fowl, snakes, bats, rodents, spiders and a range of trees, shrubs and plants.

Murahwa’s Hill: Education Centre

The good news keeps on going. The NTZ has received very generous funding form the Helen Hyslop Trust for development at Murahwa’s hill. The late Mrs. Hyslop, who served on the Executive Council for many many years,  was very passionate about Murahwa’s Hill and her substantial funding will assist not only with the protection of the site with new walling but, once open, the new education center, car park and toilet block will enable the site to be fully open and attract visitors, including school children and therefore, hopefully become financially self-sufficient. Construction will commence in June. We are very excited about this new and important project and look forward to the opening of the centre to which we will send you an invitation to join in the celebrations.

Worlds View

We are pleased to report that the site is doing very well and received good rains and planted beds have regrown from last years’ dry season. The aloes planted along the contour ridges have filled out and will flower this year.

The view hosted a very important person: The Right Hon Evelyn Ndlovu Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife visited Worlds View and she told us that she loved her time exploring the hill and she remarked on the beautiful view across the valley. We thank you for coming to visit and hope to see you again.

In addition to the Right Hon Minister the hill has received a good number of visitors and here are some of the reviews that they very kindly posted on Google business review:

Google reviews

Over the past 5 years we announce with great pride, that Worlds View receives a 5 star rating on almost of all its business reviews on a consistent basis ranking it as one of the premier tourist attractions and visitor experience enjoyments in Nyanga!

We would like the share some of the review comments that we have received with you: 5 stars: 2 weeks ago – Breath taking

5 stars: 4 weeks ago – Spectacular and unforgettable, especially on a clear day when you can see far across the Eastern Highlands. The road to get there is rugged, you need a car with high clearance.

5 stars: 4 weeks ago – Always awesome

5 stars: 4 weeks ago – Good chilling cool space 5 stars: 4 weeks ago – Wonderful

5 stars 5 weeks ago – Beautiful scenery. 5 stars: 6 weeks ago – Great view

5 stars: 11 weeks ago – A beautiful experience. The hike took 45 minutes but it was worth it. The view from the top was breath taking.

5 stars: 16 weeks ago -Fantastic point of interest and the highest point in Zimbabwe you can reach with a car. We took the “Worlds View Drive” to get here.

5 stars: 17 weeks ago – Fee is: USD 3 per Person. more than fair. Such a nice place with great views

New Plans:

The update of a visitor centre will begin in April after Independence weekend. This will include:

• Update of picture gallery with adequate lighting and displays
• Geological and ecological information of the site
• New flower selling display
• More and better equipped dustbins.
• Pathway to ruins to be made
• Ruins to be totally cleared
• Signage around the property and on the roads leading to the site
• Combine with Sculptors team to enable them to do walking tours of the area and Educate in terms of Cultural Heritage.

The view has also experienced land tenure issues with people trying to stake one section of land adjacent to NTZ property in Little Connemara (approx. 15ha) has been fenced off and appropriated. Little Connemara Ltd (LCL) has placed an injunction with the High Court. The NTZ will support the local community in Little Connemara with the process.

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