By Dickson Bandera
EarGround TV producer and presenter Oscar Pambuka has received a brand-new vehicle and a cash gift from businessman Sir Wicknell Chivhayo in recognition of his advocacy against drug and substance abuse and his commitment to social and spiritual restoration.
In a public statement, Chivhayo said the gesture was rooted in the belief that “everyone deserves a second chance,” particularly those who demonstrate courage by acknowledging past mistakes and committing to change.
Chivhayo reflected on Pambuka’s journey, describing him as “one exceptionally talented young man who was once the face of national television,” whose iconic introduction, “The News at Eight, read by Oscar Pambuka,” became synonymous with journalistic excellence in Zimbabwe.
Pambuka’s life and career were derailed by drug addiction, leading to conviction, loss of employment and a prison sentence. However, he said what appeared to be the end marked a turning point.
“He accepted his shortcomings without excuse and made the difficult decision to go through rehabilitation by the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services, a decision which I salute him for,” Chivhayo said.
Rather than distancing himself from his past, Pambuka has since spoken openly about his experiences, using his story to warn young people about the dangers of drug and substance abuse.
Through EarGround TV where he pushes his advocacy on anti drugs, he has emerged as a vocal advocate for rehabilitation, recovery and behavioural change, particularly among the youth.
Chivhayo noted that Pambuka’s work aligns with national efforts to curb drug abuse, including initiatives led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the First Lady, Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, through the Angel of Hope Foundation.
“He has become living proof that rehabilitation works and that change is possible,” Chivhayo said, adding that Pambuka deserves recognition for being “the mouthpiece which has seen it all and can boldly say no to drugs.”
As part of the recognition, Chivhayo announced that Pambuka would collect a fully paid-for 2025 Toyota Fortuner 4×4 from Exquisite Car Dealership. He also disclosed that Pambuka would receive US$10 000 in cash for fuel and as a Christmas gift.
Reacting to the gesture, Pambuka described the reward as a divine blessing, saying it reaffirmed the value of consistent work and commitment to purpose.
Chivhayo concluded by expressing hope that Zimbabweans would one day hear Pambuka’s familiar sign-off on national television once again, stating, “Zimbabwe looks forward to the day we once again hear, ‘The News at 8, read by Oscar Pambuka.’”
The development has been widely viewed as a strong endorsement of rehabilitation, second chances and the role of media practitioners in shaping a drug-free society.
