Marondera, named after the headman who ruled there more than a hundred years ago, is 74 km east of Harare along the main road to Nyanga and Mutare. It is the centre of a farming community, particularly tobacco and wine vineyards.

At present trade in the town is slow owing to the land distribution programme. Vineyards and wine-making remain, and in the same area there is a private game park.

The town was occupied by 5,000 Rhodesia Field Force army personnel during the Anglo Boer War.

Altitude is relatively high, making it a healthy, temperate climate. This could explain why there has been a proliferation of schools in the area.

The source of the stately Savé, Zimbabwe's largest inland river (prounounced Savee) is in the watershed hills south of Marondera.

Bernard Mizeki Shrine situated 25km outside Marondera. The highly respected and loved Christian Missionary and Evangelist was murdered after a local traditional healer blamed him and his teachings for natural calamities assailing residents in that area. People were suffering from drought, cattle disease and illness.

The hut where Mizeki was murdered is now the shrine. It is preserved with the addition of a platform floor with an altar built on the spot where Mizeki was sitting when he was stabbed.

Directions to the shrine:
Main Harare - Mutare Road. Pass Marondera town and Peterhouse School. Take the left turning to Theydon railway siding. Enquiries along that road would help to find the shrine.