By Crime and Courts Reporter- Finance Ministry secretary George Guvamatanga, has been thrust into the spotlight following revelations of a sprawling corruption scandal involving over R800 million (approximately US$42 million) paid to companies linked to controversial businessman and convicted fraudster Wicknell Chivayo.
South African authorities are now investigating the case, which could potentially lead to arrests and cross-border prosecutions.
The scandal centres around a suspicious payment of over R1.1 billion made by Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Finance to Ren-Form CC, a Johannesburg-based printing company contracted to supply election materials for Zimbabwe’s August 2023 general elections.
Of this amount, more than R800 million was immediately funneled into a web of companies linked to Chivayo, including Intratrek Holdings and Dolintel Trading Enterprise, without any trace of services rendered or goods delivered.
At the heart of the matter is George Guvamatanga, the technocrat responsible for authorising all public payments in his role as Secretary for Finance and Economic Development.
As the government’s top paymaster, Guvamatanga has sweeping control over treasury disbursements—giving him the final word on payments such as the controversial Ren-Form deal.
While attention has largely focused on Chivayo and his associates, investigators in South Africa and Zimbabwe are now turning their gaze to Guvamatanga.
Confidential reports obtained by this publication suggest that no payment of such magnitude could have been processedwithout his direct approval.
The Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) in South Africa has flagged the Ren-Form transaction as a suspicious and coordinated scheme to loot Zimbabwean public funds under the guise of election procurement.
Furthermore, sources close to the investigation allege that Guvamatanga has amassed a string of high-value properties in South Africa’s Gauteng and Western Cape provinces, including a luxury townhouse in Sandton, a Cape Town apartment overlooking the Atlantic Seaboard, and a commercial building in Midrand—all held through proxies or shell companies.
None of these assets appear in his publicly declared assets or government filings, prompting questions about their financing and ownership.
The FIC has also alerted the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and South African Police Service (SAPS) to potential violations of anti-money laundering laws, including misrepresentation of source of funds, illicit financial flows, and racketeering.
Documents reviewed by ZimLive and corroborated by law enforcement officials show that once Ren-Form received the funds from the Zimbabwean treasury, more than R800 million was quickly disbursed to third parties, most of them Chivayo-linked companies. These payouts included:
R351 million to Asibambeki Platinum Group
R28.8 million to Kumba Group
R9.4 million to Indo Logistics
R5.4 million to Daytona (a luxury car dealership)
R5.6 million to NN Truck and Trailer
R1.6 million to Flight Centre SA
R4 million to Strauss Scher Inc (a law firm)
R1 million to Christian by Hadassah (a Zimbabwean cosmetics brand)
One of the most glaring red flags is a R156 million payment made to Edenbreeze, another Chivayo company, for vaguely defined “architectural and technical services”—raising suspicions of invoice padding and fictitious procurement.
In one shocking example, Ren-Form charged R23 million for a central server that could be sourced online for R90,000. Similarly, non-flushing toilets were invoiced at R68,700 each, and BVR kits—normally worth US$3,600—were billed at an inflated US$16,000 per unit.
The scandal might have remained hidden if not for a falling out between Chivayo and his associates, Mike Chimombeand Moses Mpofu, which led to leaked WhatsApp messages and voice recordings.
In the audio, Chivayo is heard bragging about bribing top Zimbabwean officials—including Guvamatanga—to greenlight the contract.
Though Chivayo has denied the recordings are his and issued a public apology to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, former CIO boss Isaac Moyo, Cabinet Secretary Martin Rushwaya, and ZEC chairperson Justice Priscilla Chigumba, he notably did not deny the payments occurred.
Meanwhile, Chimombe and Mpofu, who accused Chivayo of cutting them out of the deal, were arrested on unrelated charges in Zimbabwe and denied bail—moves widely perceived as political retribution aimed at silencing whistleblowers.
Despite growing public outcry, the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) and the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) have failed to take decisive action against any of the implicated individuals.
The Zimbabwean government has neither confirmed nor denied Guvamatanga’s role in authorising the payments, while Guvamatanga himself has remained silent, avoiding media engagements and public appearances.
Analysts say Guvamatanga’s long-standing ties to Mnangagwa and his cabinet have effectively shielded him from accountability.
Appointed in 2018 after a career in the banking sector, Guvamatanga is viewed as one of the regime’s key technocrats—tasked with keeping the country’s battered economy afloat while also managing the ruling party’s vast patronage networks.
With South Africa now taking the lead, pressure is mounting on Zimbabwean authorities to cooperate or risk diplomatic fallout.
FIC’s findings have already been shared with Interpol and several international anti-corruption watchdogs.
Should Guvamatanga be found to have facilitated or personally benefited from the illicit financial flows, he could face asset forfeiture and criminal prosecution in South Africa—even if Zimbabwean institutions continue to look the other way.
For many Zimbabweans, the scandal reinforces a painful truth: that elections are not just stolen at the ballot box but also turned into multi-million-dollar looting sprees by politically connected elites.
CAPS United coach Lloyd Chitembwe has accepted full responsibility for the team’s poor performance following a 2-1 defeat to Ngezi Platinum Stars on Sunday. The loss marked the team’s second consecutive defeat, pushing them into the relegation zone.
Speaking after the match, Chitembwe acknowledged that the buck stops with him, saying, “It is the sole responsibility of the coach to ensure the team wins matches. That responsibility is mine, and it does not lie with anyone else.”
He added, “I am the kind of person who does not shy away from that responsibility. I am responsible – big time – because, at the end of the day, the decisions I make are reflected in the team’s performance.”
Chitembwe expressed his disappointment with the team’s performance, stating, “It has not gone well – not only with the supporters, but also with the players. They are unhappy too. It has not sat well with me either. I am not happy.”
Feeling tired behind the wheel? It’s more than just uncomfortable—it’s dangerous. Drowsy driving is a serious risk that can lead to accidents and harm, not only to you but also to others on the road.
If you’re feeling fatigued, don’t push through it. “Take a break for a safer journey,” is the crucial reminder from road safety experts. Whether you’re on a long drive or simply feeling weary after a busy day, pulling over to rest can make all the difference.
Remember, “Every life matters.” Fatigue impairs your reaction time, judgment, and focus, increasing the chances of making a critical mistake. Don’t risk it—take a short break, stretch your legs, and recharge before continuing your journey.
Prioritize safety, and let your well-being guide you to safer travels. If you’re tired, stop, rest, and return to the road refreshed. It could save lives.
Produced by Safety and Victims Advocacy Foundation (The Gambia)
By A Correspondent | ZimEye | London, 7 April 2025 — In a dramatic escalation of Zimbabwe’s internal political strife, a war veterans’ group has alleged that Major Sean Mnangagwa, son of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has been appointed the de facto President of Zimbabwe, bypassing constitutional protocol and sidelining the incumbent Vice President, Constantino Chiwenga.
The accusation comes from a newly formed group calling itself the Defenders of Vice President Chiwenga and the Constitution of Zimbabwe – England Branch, led by self-described war veteran Cde Jekanyika. In a press release issued on 6 April in Luton, England, the group claims that Sean Mnangagwa’s rise is part of a broader “parallel state” orchestrated by First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa and powerful business magnate Kudakwashe Tagwirei.
Sean Mnangagwa
According to the document, Sean Mnangagwa is now effectively controlling the affairs of the state through covert military and intelligence appointments, despite having no constitutional authority. “The Zimbabwe National Army must designate Major Sean Mnangagwa a terrorist because he has a plan to attack critical infrastructures in order to put blame on a group of war veterans who are fighting against corruption,” the group’s statement reads.
The allegations come amid growing discontent within ZANU-PF’s military-aligned factions, many of whom have grown increasingly vocal about what they describe as endemic corruption, economic collapse, and abuse of state power by the Mnangagwa family. The press release also alleges that President Mnangagwa, said to be in deteriorating health, is being manipulated by those close to him, including his wife and son.
Notably, the veterans’ group calls for Vice President Chiwenga to assume leadership after Mnangagwa’s term ends in 2028 and contests the upcoming elections. They also call for Major Sean Mnangagwa to be stripped of any military authority, labelling him a “terrorist.”
The statement further highlights a litany of corruption scandals allegedly involving the President’s family, including looting from national schemes such as the Command Agriculture programme, the Presidential goat scheme, and the controversial Gwanda solar project. It also condemns the arrests of over 100 anti-corruption protesters and the detention without trial of journalist Blessed Mhlanga.
This development marks one of the most significant intra-party challenges to Mnangagwa’s leadership since he seized power in 2017 through a military-assisted transition that sidelined Robert Mugabe.
There has been no official response from the Zimbabwean government or ZANU-PF at the time of publication.
Glen View South was shaken by a wave of political violence on the night of April 5, 2025, when supporters of independent candidate Tonderai Chakaredza were targeted in a brutal attack.
The homes and vehicles of prominent opposition members, including Ward 23 Councillor Gaudencia Marera and Shadreck Rateiwa, were bombed by unknown assailants, believed to be politically motivated.
The attack occurs just days before the upcoming by-election on April 12, 2025, following the sudden passing of the Honorable Glandmore Hakata, which has created a political vacuum in the area and heightened tensions.
Councillor Gaudencia Marera, who resides at House Number 337 in Glen View 1 Extension, was left devastated after discovering that both his vehicles—a Nissan X-Trail (AGF6795) and a Honda Fit (AFL5622)—were destroyed in the attack. Similarly, his fellow opposition ally, Shadreck Rateiwa, who lives at 737 Dare Rechimurenga in Glen View 4 Extension, found his home severely damaged by the bombing.
The bombings caused extensive damage, shattering windows, damaging walls, and compromising the roofs of both properties. Councillor Marera spoke to Change Radio, visibly shaken, saying, “I am devastated by the bombing of my house and the destruction of my two cars. Politics should not resemble a life-and-death battle; rather, it is a contest aimed at representing the needs of our citizens. I vehemently condemn this violence and urge law enforcement to apprehend those responsible.”
Rateiwa, equally distressed, shared his outrage over the damage to his home and the loss of valuables. “My house was bombed, and countless valuables were lost. The damage amounts to thousands of U.S. dollars,” he said. “I am profoundly disappointed by the actions of these political thugs.”
Both Marera and Rateiwa are vocal supporters of independent candidate Tonderai Chakaredza, who is vying to represent Glen View South in the upcoming by-election. This violent episode has raised serious concerns about potential voter intimidation tactics being used by opposing political factions.
Honorable Eric Murai, the campaign leader for Chakaredza, condemned the violence and linked it directly to efforts to suppress support for his candidate. “Before the bombing, Councillor Marera and Rateiwa were actively campaigning for Chakaredza. This act of violence is clearly an attempt to intimidate our supporters and instill fear, aiming to suppress their willingness to vote for him,” Murai said.
According to Murai, police are already on the scene and are investigating the incident.
The political landscape in Glen View South is further complicated by the presence of several other candidates, including independent candidates Tungamirai Madzokere and George Makwangwaidze, along with Perpetua Mukanda of the National Constitutional Assembly (NCA), and Tsitsi Tranquility Towomhera, representing Zanu PF.
With the by-election fast approaching, the community is left grappling with the consequences of the violent attacks. As residents brace for the upcoming vote, the hope for justice remains strong, but the fear of more violence looms, threatening to undermine the integrity of the democratic process.
EDITORIAL: Hopewell Chin’ono will write lengthy posts insulting people like Chamisa…but lately, anything that involves Chivayo he is 🤐..Zvibvunzei kuti sei achinyarara?, asks Gamu
Hopewell will write lengthy posts insulting people like Chamisa…but lately, anything that involves Chivayo he is 🤐..Zvibvunzei kuti sei achinyarara? pic.twitter.com/GoaDRIqr9q
Those better at O Level Maths already know the only difference between the two “Daddy” characters is “Wick,” and the journalism title, as they are part of the same UK Slough gang together with Chief Jose (Joseph Mhaka), who Chin’ono will never mention. Mhaka fled UK soon after conviction for high profile cheque fraud in 2008, and was not as lucky as Hopewell Chin’ono who left UK 7 yesrs earlier when Britain’s fingerprinting system was still to be integrated post 911 upgrade. As a result, Chin’ono’s name change remains out of the cache, also because he was not convicted. However, his latest notorious operations were last year when he encouraged people to compromise airport security since 29 April 2024. One of the colleagues who Chin’ono encouraged is one Jennifer Banyure, who was encouraged by Chin’ono, to sabotage Gatwick Airport’s database on 26 Aug 2024.
Banyure engaged a hacker on Chin’ono’s encouragement to delete her other name she used to enter UK and then changed in the same year Chin’ono (previously surnamed Mukusha) changed his, 2001.
Banyure was captured on camera inside Nottingham’s St James Hotel with a hacker performing the hacking operation.
Under Chin’ono’s encouragements and instructions, Banyure moved over to try and rob a senior engineer of his multi million pound property. She did this using the fake identity she shifted to in the same year Hopewell Chin’ono changed his.
Following an investigation by ZimEye however, a Derby County Court judge Justice Pittman, has ruled a clean break resolution that blocks Banyure from her manoeuvres. This was after an identity fraud case was raised at court 2 weeks after the hacking attempt. The hacker was an undercover investigative journalist. WATCH THE FULL DOCUMENTARY HERE
Zimbabwean journalist and political prisoner Blessed Mhlanga has once again been denied bail, marking the third time he has faced such a ruling.
Mhlanga, known for his critical reporting on President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s actions, is being persecuted for exposing the government’s alleged wrongdoings. The Magistrate presiding over his case ruled that the bail application lacked merit.
Mhlanga is now scheduled to appear in court on 22 April 2025 for notification of his trial date.
Opposition leader Advocate Nelson Chamisa has made it clear that he will not be silenced by critics.
The MDC leader fired back at those attempting to undermine him, vowing to continue working towards his objectives despite the negative commentary.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Advocate Chamisa shared his thoughts, emphasizing that he would remain focused on his leadership journey.
He said:
“KEEP LEADING…When they talk bad about you everyday, either they fear you or they can’t handle you, or both. They are terrified by you. Keep leading them anyway. Never stop leading. Blessed Sunday!”
Chamisa’s statement reflected his determination to push forward, despite the ongoing criticism. His message to his supporters was clear: he will not be deterred by negativity and will continue to lead with strength and resolve.
The opposition leader’s remarks underline his resilience and commitment to his political agenda, even as he faces mounting challenges from his detractors.
Glen View South was rocked by a violent attack on the night of April 5, 2025, when supporters of independent candidate Tonderai Chakaredza were targeted in a bomb assault. The homes and vehicles of prominent opposition members, including Ward 23 Councillor Gaudencia Marera and Shadreck Rateiwa, were destroyed by unknown assailants believed to be politically motivated.
This attack comes just days before the April 12, 2025, by-election, triggered by the sudden death of Honorable Glandmore Hakata, creating a political vacuum and escalating tensions in the area.
Councillor Gaudencia Marera, who resides at House Number 337 in Glen View 1 Extension, was left devastated when he discovered that his two vehicles—a Nissan X-Trail (AGF6795) and a Honda Fit (AFL5622)—had been bombed. His fellow opposition ally, Shadreck Rateiwa, living at 737 Dare Rechimurenga in Glen View 4 Extension, also found his home severely damaged in the attack.
The bombings left extensive damage, shattering windows, damaging walls, and compromising the roofs of both properties. Councillor Marera spoke to Change Radio, visibly shaken, saying, “I am devastated by the bombing of my house and the destruction of my two cars. Politics should not resemble a life-and-death battle; rather, it is a contest aimed at representing the needs of our citizens. I vehemently condemn this violence and urge law enforcement to apprehend those responsible.”
Rateiwa, equally distraught, expressed his outrage over the destruction and the loss of his valuables. “My house was bombed, and countless valuables were lost. The damage amounts to thousands of U.S. dollars,” he lamented. “I am profoundly disappointed by the actions of these political thugs.”
Both Marera and Rateiwa are vocal supporters of independent candidate Tonderai Chakaredza, who is campaigning to represent Glen View South in the upcoming by-election. The violence has raised significant concerns about voter intimidation tactics being used by political adversaries.
Honorable Eric Murai, campaign leader for Chakaredza, condemned the attack, calling it a clear attempt to suppress support for his candidate. “Before the bombing, Councillor Marera and Rateiwa were actively campaigning for Chakaredza. This act of violence is clearly an attempt to intimidate our supporters and instill fear, aiming to suppress their willingness to vote for him,” Murai said.
Murai also confirmed that police are on the scene and conducting an investigation into the attack.
The political dynamics in Glen View South are further complicated by the presence of other candidates, including independent contenders Tungamirai Madzokere and George Makwangwaidze, along with Perpetua Mukanda of the National Constitutional Assembly (NCA), and Tsitsi Tranquility Towomhera, representing Zanu PF.
As the by-election approaches, the community is grappling with the aftermath of the violence. With residents bracing for the vote, there are growing concerns about the potential for more violence, casting a shadow over the integrity of the democratic process and the hope for justice in Glen View South.
Zanu PF hardliners descended on Glen View South Constituency over the weekend, gearing up for the April 12 by-election.
However, residents of the constituency have vowed to reject the Zanu PF candidate in favour of an independent candidate.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Citizens Against Economic Sanctions (CAES) expressed their support for the candidate Tsitsi Tawomhera and highlighted their commitment to the development of the constituency…
Behind Tsitsi Tawomhera for Glen View South By-Election
Citizens Against Economic Sanctions (CAES) Zimbabwe attended a pivotal meeting in Glen View South Constituency in support of candidate Tsitsi Tawomhera, which saw a strong turnout from party supporters and key political figures.
The gathering, held at PA D.O Pa Ground Pa Mapostori, emphasized the growing momentum behind her candidacy and the party’s commitment to the constituency’s development.
The event was graced by notable dignitaries, including Zanu PF National Political Commissar Munyadrazi Machacha, the Minister of Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Harare Metropolitan Province Senator Charles Tawengwa, and Special Presidential Adviser Dr. Paul Tungwarara.
Their attendance underscored the importance of the meeting and the role of Glen View South in the broader political context.
Leaders from CAES Zimbabwe, both at the Harare Provincial and National levels, were also present, demonstrating their strong support for Tsitsi Tawomhera as the candidate poised to bring positive change.
A significant moment during the gathering was the announcement of a US$200,000 Presidential Revolving Fund allocation for Glen View South Constituency, facilitated by Dr. Tungwarara on behalf of His Excellency Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa.
The funds are expected to drive local development initiatives, improve infrastructure, and create new economic opportunities for the constituency’s residents.
By Crime and Courts Reporter-Authorities in South Africa are investigating controversial businessman and convicted fraudster Wicknell Chivayo concerning corruption involving R800 Million.
The allegations stem from reports that the Finance ministry paid over R1.1 billion to a South African company contracted to supply election materials, of which more than R800 million (US$42 Million) was immediately deposited into Chivayo-linked companies’ bank accounts.
The revelations, detailed in a confidential forensic analysis by South Africa’s Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), have prompted urgent interest from South Africa’s law enforcement agencies, including the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and the South African Police Service (SAPS), who are now moving towards possible arrest and prosecution.
The financial trail leads directly to Ren-Form CC, a Johannesburg-based commercial printing company handpicked to supply materials to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) for the August 2023 general elections—bypassing public tender procedures.
The FIC which analyzed Ren-Form’s bank transactions from April 2023 to May 2024, uncovered that once the Zimbabwean treasury deposited over R1.1 billion into the company’s accounts, more than R800 million was rapidly siphoned off to companies controlled by Chivayo—primarily Intratrek Holdings and Dolintel Trading Enterprise.
Chivayo’s murky dealings are not new. In 2017, he was convicted of fraud and served time in prison over a failed multimillion-dollar Zimbabwe Power Company contract.
Despite his criminal record, Chivayo has managed to reinvent himself as a politically connected tenderpreneur, frequently flaunting his close relationship with President Emmerson Mnangagwa and other senior Zanu PF officials.
His growing influence within Zimbabwe’s power corridors has raised eyebrows, especially as his name continues to surface in multimillion-dollar contracts involving public funds. Chivayo has often been seen accompanying Mnangagwa on state functions and claims to enjoy the president’s full protection.
The Ren-Form contract would have remained shrouded in secrecy had it not been for a dramatic fallout between Chivayo and his business associates, Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu.
Audio clips and WhatsApp messages leaked to the media captured the trio squabbling over how to split “commission” payments from the Ren-Form deal. In the recordings, Chivayo brags about paying off senior government officials to secure the contract.
Although Chivayo has denied the voice recordings are his and apologized to Mnangagwa, former CIO director-general Isaac Moyo, cabinet secretary Martin Rushwaya, and ZEC chairperson Justice Priscilla Chigumba, the damage was already done.
His apology, notably, did not include a denial that payments were made—only regret for giving the impression that state institutions were complicit.
The leaked materials suggest that Ren-Form grossly inflated prices on a wide range of election materials—from ballot papers, biometric voter registration (BVR) kits, and servers to basic items like tents and non-flushing toilets—with the excess profits channeled as kickbacks to Chivayo and his partners.
In one instance, a central server valued at R90,000 online was billed at R23 million.
Non-flushing toilets were invoiced at R68,700 each—nearly seven times their retail cost. BVR kits, initially quoted at US$5,000, ballooned to US$16,000 by the time the invoice reached Zimbabwe’s treasury.
For comparison, the United Nations Development Programme paid just US$3,600 per unit for similar kits during the 2021 Honduran elections.
The FIC noted that once the payments landed in Chivayo-controlled accounts, money was swiftly transferred to multiple third parties.
These included a R156 million payment made directly by the Zimbabwean government to Edenbreeze, another Chivayo company, allegedly for “architectural and technical services.”
The FIC flagged Chivayo’s accounts for suspicious activities, citing the frequent movement of large, round-figure sums inconsistent with the account holder’s stated business profile.
He reportedly splurged more than R36 million from a personal account on luxury car purchases and made significant payments to law firms, car dealerships, travel agents, and obscure South African companies.
Among the entities receiving major payouts from Chivayo’s companies were:
Asibambeki Platinum Group: R351 million
Kumba Group: R28.8 million
Indo Logistics: R9.4 million
Daytona (luxury car dealer): R5.4 million
Flight Centre SA: R1.6 million
NN Truck and Trailer: R5.6 million
Strauss Scher Inc (law firm): R4 million
Christian by Hadassah (Zim makeup brand): R1 million
Although Chivayo denies any wrongdoing and insists the payments were legitimate business transactions, South African authorities appear unconvinced.
The FIC’s findings have not only been handed over to SARS and SAPS but also shared with Zimbabwe’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), which is yet to take meaningful action.
The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission initially pledged to probe the election contract scandal but has since gone quiet, fueling speculation of political interference.
Chimombe and Mpofu—who accused Chivayo of betrayal—have since been arrested in Zimbabwe on unrelated corruption charges and denied bail, a move critics say was meant to silence them.
Ren-Form, for its part, has denied wrongdoing, but must now explain how it retained only R300 million of the R1.1 billion it received, suggesting that over R800 million was systematically extracted through inflated pricing.
As pressure mounts in South Africa, and with fresh evidence implicating both Zimbabwean state officials and politically exposed persons, Wicknell Chivayo may finally face the long arm of the law—not in Harare, but in Johannesburg.
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By Crime and Courts Reporter-The South African government is investigating controversial Zimbabwean businessman and convicted fraudster Wicknell Chivayo following explosive revelations that Zimbabwe’s finance ministry paid over R1.1 billion to a South African company contracted to supply election materials—of which more than R800 million was immediately funneled into Chivayo-linked companies.
The revelations, detailed in a confidential forensic analysis by South Africa’s Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), have prompted urgent interest from South Africa’s law enforcement agencies, including the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and the South African Police Service (SAPS), who are now moving towards possible arrest and prosecution.
The financial trail leads directly to Ren-Form CC, a Johannesburg-based commercial printing company handpicked to supply materials to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) for the August 2023 general elections—bypassing public tender procedures.
According to documents seen by ZimLive, the FIC’s investigation, which analyzed Ren-Form’s bank transactions from April 2023 to May 2024, uncovered that once the Zimbabwean treasury deposited over R1.1 billion into the company’saccounts, more than R800 million was rapidly siphoned off to companies controlled by Chivayo—primarily Intratrek Holdings and Dolintel Trading Enterprise.
Chivayo’s murky dealings are not new. In 2017, he was convicted of fraud and served time in prison over a failed multimillion-dollar Zimbabwe Power Company contract.
Despite his criminal record, Chivayo has managed to reinvent himself as a politically connected tenderpreneur, frequently flaunting his close relationship with President Emmerson Mnangagwa and other senior Zanu PF officials.
His growing influence within Zimbabwe’s power corridors has raised eyebrows, especially as his name continues to surface in multimillion-dollar contracts involving public funds. Chivayo has often been seen accompanying Mnangagwa on state functions and claims to enjoy the president’s full protection.
The Ren-Form contract would have remained shrouded in secrecy had it not been for a dramatic fallout between Chivayo and his business associates, Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu.
Audio clips and WhatsApp messages leaked to the media captured the trio squabbling over how to split “commission” payments from the Ren-Form deal. In the recordings, Chivayo brags about paying off senior government officials to secure the contract.
Although Chivayo has denied the voice recordings are his and apologized to Mnangagwa, former CIO director-general Isaac Moyo, cabinet secretary Martin Rushwaya, and ZEC chairperson Justice Priscilla Chigumba, the damage was already done.
His apology, notably, did not include a denial that payments were made—only regret for giving the impression that state institutions were complicit.
The leaked materials suggest that Ren-Form grossly inflated prices on a wide range of election materials—from ballot papers, biometric voter registration (BVR) kits, and servers to basic items like tents and non-flushing toilets—with the excess profits channeled as kickbacks to Chivayo and his partners.
In one instance, a central server valued at R90,000 online was billed at R23 million.
Non-flushing toilets were invoiced at R68,700 each—nearly seven times their retail cost. BVR kits, initially quoted at US$5,000, ballooned to US$16,000 by the time the invoice reached Zimbabwe’s treasury.
For comparison, the United Nations Development Programme paid just US$3,600 per unit for similar kits during the 2021 Honduran elections.
The FIC noted that once the payments landed in Chivayo-controlled accounts, money was swiftly transferred to multiple third parties.
These included a R156 million payment made directly by the Zimbabwean government to Edenbreeze, another Chivayo company, allegedly for “architectural and technical services.”
The FIC flagged Chivayo’s accounts for suspicious activities, citing the frequent movement of large, round-figure sums inconsistent with the account holder’s stated business profile.
He reportedly splurged more than R36 million from a personal account on luxury car purchases and made significant payments to law firms, car dealerships, travel agents, and obscure South African companies.
Among the entities receiving major payouts from Chivayo’s companies were:
Asibambeki Platinum Group: R351 million
Kumba Group: R28.8 million
Indo Logistics: R9.4 million
Daytona (luxury car dealer): R5.4 million
Flight Centre SA: R1.6 million
NN Truck and Trailer: R5.6 million
Strauss Scher Inc (law firm): R4 million
Christian by Hadassah (Zim makeup brand): R1 million
Although Chivayo denies any wrongdoing and insists the payments were legitimate business transactions, South African authorities appear unconvinced.
The FIC’s findings have not only been handed over to SARS and SAPS but also shared with Zimbabwe’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), which is yet to take meaningful action.
The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission initially pledged to probe the election contract scandal but has since gone quiet, fueling speculation of political interference.
Chimombe and Mpofu—who accused Chivayo of betrayal—have since been arrested in Zimbabwe on unrelated corruption charges and denied bail, a move critics say was meant to silence them.
Ren-Form, for its part, has denied wrongdoing, but must now explain how it retained only R300 million of the R1.1 billion it received, suggesting that over R800 million was systematically extracted through inflated pricing.
As pressure mounts in South Africa, and with fresh evidence implicating both Zimbabwean state officials and politically exposed persons, Wicknell Chivayo may finally face the long arm of the law—not in Harare, but in Johannesburg.
By Business Reporter-The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has announced plans to gradually phase out the US dollar and permanently replace it with the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG)ZiG .
RBZ has satered printing the ZiG notes in a desperate attempt to shore up confidence, despite the currency having lostvalue within a month of its debut in April last year.
RBZ Governor John Mushayavanhu confirmed the central bank’s plan to enhance and print new notes, citing a “gradual de-dollarisation roadmap” and claiming the rollout of new designs will take between six months and two years – a delay critics say will do nothing to reverse the eroding trust in the local currency.
“The Reserve Bank is working on enhancing the quality and design of the ZiG banknotes in line with international standards,” Mushayavanhu said, adding that the process was part of broader measures to transition to a monocurrency regime by 2030.
But economists and ordinary Zimbabweans alike are not convinced.
The latest developments expose a troubling pattern in President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration — a repetition of the same failed currency policies implemented under former President Robert Mugabe.
Since 2000, Zimbabwe has introduced and abandoned a string of currencies and monetary instruments, including bearer cheques, bond notes, and electronic RTGS dollars — all of which collapsed under inflation and public rejection.
Mnangagwa’s rise to power in 2017 was marked by promises of economic reform, foreign investment, and a break from Mugabe-era economic mismanagement.
However, the ZANU PF government has doubled down on centralised economic control, monetary policy manipulation, and a hostile business environment, pushing the country further away from genuine recovery.
The latest currency experiment — the ZiG — was marketed as a gold-backed solution to instability.
But it has done little to instil confidence among citizens and investors. Instead, many Zimbabweans continue to rely on the US dollar for everyday transactions, with local currency use hovering at just 35 percent, despite official efforts to enforce de-dollarisation.
While RBZ insists that price stability and controlled inflation — including a reported negative food inflation rate of -0.5%— are signs of ZiG’s success, the broader economic picture remains bleak.
Rent shocks, fuel volatility, and shortages in essential goods continue to undercut official optimism.
The government claims that end-2025 annual inflation will be contained below 30%, paving the way for a 6% GDP growth.
But these projections appear detached from the real challenges facing Zimbabwe’s informalised and largely dollarised economy.
What Zimbabwe needs, economists argue, is not another short-lived local currency, but structural economic reforms to restore investor confidence. These include:
A credible, independent monetary authority
A transparent fiscal policy with zero tolerance for corruption
Property rights that are respected and upheld
Political stability and democratic governance
Rule of law that protects both citizens and investors
Without these fundamentals, any currency — be it ZiG or otherwise — is bound to fail.
From bearer cheques to bond notes, from RTGS dollars to ZiG — Zimbabwe’s monetary history is littered with broken promises and vanished savings.
The return to printing more notes signals not stability, but desperation.
And as long as President Mnangagwa’s government refuses to address the root causes of economic collapse — cronyism, corruption, and policy inconsistency — the ZiG will join the ghosts of currencies past.
Controversial Shake-Up in Zimbabwe’s Special Forces Sparks Allegations of Foul Play
Harare – April 2025
A highly contentious change in the command of Zimbabwe’s elite Special Air Services (SAS) has raised alarm across military and political circles, as allegations surface that the decision was not sanctioned by President Emmerson Mnangagwa himself, but rather orchestrated by First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa and her son, Major Sean Mnangagwa.
The appointment, formalized through a letter dated March 28, 2025, installed Lieutenant General Emmanuel Matatu as the new army commander and directed the promotion of Major Edmore Madhema to the leadership of the SAS. The letter, which bore President Mnangagwa’s signature, was allegedly drafted without his knowledge, according to military insiders.
Sources claim that the letter was timed to coincide with the run-up to major anti-Mnangagwa protests planned for March 31, 2025. The controversial directive removed Lieutenant Colonel Maisiri from his command of the elite SAS unit and reassigned him to an undefined “appointment elsewhere.”
Edmore Madhema, now reportedly promoted to lieutenant colonel, previously served as the commander of the army training school in Mbalabala. His appointment is raising serious concerns, given his alleged involvement in grave human rights violations. Army sources link him to the abduction and murder of Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) supporter Tapfumaneyi Masaya. Masaya was reportedly seized while campaigning in Mabvuku in November 2023, ahead of a parliamentary by-election. His body was later discovered under suspicious circumstances.
The military reshuffle has raised fears of deepening factionalism within Zimbabwe’s armed forces, with concerns that powerful figures within the First Family are positioning loyalists in key military posts to consolidate political control ahead of expected turbulence. Analysts suggest the move could indicate growing distrust or disengagement between President Mnangagwa and the military establishment, as well as attempts by the First Lady to shield the presidency from internal dissent.
While no official comment has been made by State House or the Ministry of Defence, the controversy has already triggered tension within the ranks, particularly among senior officers alarmed by what they view as unlawful interference in military appointments.
First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa was reached for comment.
As pressure mounts for transparency and constitutional order within the defence forces, observers warn that continued manipulation of military institutions for political ends could further destabilize the country, already grappling with economic hardship and civil unrest.- Bulawayo24/additional
By Diplomatic Correspondent- The British government has directed health care centers to prioritize hundreds of care workers, including Zimbabweans, who were stranded in the UK after falling victim to Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) scams.
Starting 9 April, care providers in England will be legally required to prioritise recruiting international care workers already residing in the UK before turning to new overseas applicants.
The change is expected to benefit scores of Zimbabweans who were left jobless, vulnerable, and facing deportation after being defrauded by rogue sponsors.
Over the past three years, dozens of Zimbabwean migrants were lured to the UK by unlicensed or unscrupulous”employers” — many of them fellow Zimbabweans — who illegally charged them thousands of pounds for CoS documents, promising employment that never materialised.
Investigative reports by ZimEye exposed how these fake sponsors ran dubious care companies, only to shut them down or disappear once the workers arrived.
Victims were left in legal limbo, homeless, and unable to legally work.
In many cases, they had sold homes and taken out loans back home to secure the false promises of a better life in Britain.
In response to growing outrage and systemic abuse, the UK government has revoked over 470 sponsor licences in the care sector between July 2022 and December 2024, affecting more than 39,000 workers.
Many of these were linked to exploitation, debt bondage, and visa fraud.
Announcing the new rules in Parliament, the Home Office said care providers must now prove they have tried to recruit workers already in England — including those whose original sponsors lost their licences — before bringing in fresh recruits from abroad.
“This ensures that those who came to the UK to pursue a career in adult social care can do so,” said Seema Malhotra, Minister for Migration and Citizenship. “We are requiring employers to prioritise international care workers who are already here and seeking new sponsorship, before recruiting from overseas.”
Malhotra added that the government is committed to tackling visa abuse and exploitation, including banning employers from charging workers sponsorship fees — a practice that has left many Zimbabweans in deep debt and despair.
Stephen Kinnock, Minister of State for Care, echoed these sentiments, saying: “As we crack down on shameful rogue operators, we must do all we can to get the victims back into rewarding careers in adult social care.”
Alongside the changes, new wage requirements will be enforced: Skilled Worker visa holders, including care workers, must now earn at least £12.82 per hour.
Similar adjustments are being made for health and education workers, aligning pay with national scales.
The government is also tightening the Short-Term Student visa route, amid fears it is being exploited by non-genuine applicants.
New powers will allow immigration caseworkers to refuse visas suspected of being used to bypass work rules.
For many Zimbabweans stranded in the UK due to CoS scams, the changes bring a long-awaited opportunity to stay legally, find genuine employers, and rebuild their lives.
“This is a significant reprieve for our people,” said a Zimbabwean community organiser in Birmingham. “After years of suffering in silence, many will finally have a path to stability.”
It’s time for a structured “mercy killing” in defence of the demands and purpose of a country that necessarily exists for the benefit of all. Rovai dzoro…….
If our security forces don’t act readily and harshly for the robust and heightened protection of GOD and Country then perhaps we must take away all their weapons from them and have them be underwear models for camouflage clothing.
It’s time when life lived in structured pernury and bondage demands that it’s not worth the value of its perpetuation in the present state. The way that this once great nation of Dzimbahwe has been neutered, looted and raped demands the drawing of a line in the sand.
Nomore indifferent care and learned helplessness as the hordes of pillaging impostors take turns engorging their vulturous indulgences and themselves to the natural glories gifted on this nation. It’s time we draw the daggers, we beat the drums of war and call for a final reckoning.
It’s time to not just drive the oppressor, the defiler of our virtues, the creator of foreign rituals, the generator of all that is ruining of all society and people to get LIQUIDATED. The land must be cleansed, our people avenged and destiny redirected.
Murumukai, mukai, tonderai, tendai and tarisai that now is the time. It’s time for political dirt to be driven out of our lands. Zinwanhanga, must be stopped and now. It’s the final countdown……
In a move that has raised eyebrows across Zimbabwe, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration has launched a programme to bribe journalists nationwide. The programme, spearheaded by Mnangagwa’s special advisor, Paul Tungwarara, aims to incentivize journalists and content creators to promote the government’s narrative and achievements, particularly under Mnangagwa’s leadership.
On Saturday, a statement from the President’s office outlined the details of the initiative, calling on journalists and content creators in all 10 provinces of Zimbabwe to participate in the scheme. The announcement included a direct appeal to journalists, urging them to “be part of the change” and “share the truth,” implying that the “truth” in this context is aligned with the government’s version of events.
The statement reads: “Attention Provincial Journalists And Content Creators: Be Part Of The Change, Step Up And Share The Truth. Announcement to Journalists And Content Creators in all 10 provinces of Zimbabwe. Join the Munhumutapa Digital Hub and share your positive stories highlighting the ongoing transformation under President E.D. Mnangagwa’s leadership.”
The programme, called the Munhumutapa Digital Hub, is described as a “powerful digital space” created to promote Zimbabwe’s growth, celebrating the accomplishments of the current administration. It encourages journalists to collaborate and highlight the success stories under the Second Republic, a term used by the government to refer to Mnangagwa’s leadership. The initiative claims to foster “collaboration and celebrating the achievements and impactful work” of the government.
One key element of the programme is the promise of rewards. The statement goes on to say: “Exciting awards will be given to those who craft and post valuable, impactful content. Your content could earn you exciting rewards while helping to shape the future.”
This promise of rewards has fueled speculation that the government is attempting to buy favorable media coverage, raising concerns over the ethics of such an approach. Critics argue that this may undermine journalistic integrity, as journalists could feel compelled to create content that aligns with the government’s narrative in order to receive the promised rewards.
The Munhumutapa Digital Hub is not just a platform for digital content; it represents an expansion of the government’s reach into the media landscape. According to the statement, structures for the initiative are being set up in all provinces of Zimbabwe, indicating that the programme is likely to have national implications. The email provided for journalists to join the initiative—[email protected]—gives further credence to the idea that the government is actively recruiting journalists to participate.
While some may argue that the initiative is an effort to promote positive stories and national progress, the move has nonetheless drawn skepticism. Critics point out that providing financial incentives to journalists could compromise the objectivity of the media, potentially turning it into a tool for government propaganda rather than a space for independent reporting.
In response to the announcement, opposition leaders have expressed concerns about the manipulation of media for political gain. They argue that the government is using this initiative to control the narrative and suppress any negative stories that may tarnish Mnangagwa’s image, particularly ahead of the upcoming elections.
In conclusion, the Munhumutapa Digital Hub may be seen as a strategic move to garner media support for Mnangagwa’s administration. However, it raises important questions about the independence of the media in Zimbabwe and the ethical implications of offering rewards for positive reporting. As the programme rolls out, the true impact on journalism in Zimbabwe will become clearer, but the initial signs point to a deepening of state influence over the media landscape.
Miners4ED, a ZANU PF affiliate, hasn’t commented on the killing of an artisanal miner at a Chinese-run mine. At their annual National Chairman’s Conference, they focused on formalizing operations. “We’re urging our members to formalize and legalize their operations,” said Cde Coussie Anashe, CEO of Miners4ED.
The conference highlighted developmental projects, including an orphanage and community hall. Minister Marian Chombo praised Miners4ED’s efforts, emphasizing the importance of safety and formalization. However, the organization remained silent on the persecution of miners by Chinese nationals.
By Diplomatic Correspondent-Hundreds of Zimbabwean care workers stranded in the UK after falling victim to Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) scams have been handed a lifeline following a new policy shift by the British government.
Starting 9 April, care providers in England will be legally required to prioritise recruiting international care workers already residing in the UK before turning to new overseas applicants.
The change is expected to benefit scores of Zimbabweans who were left jobless, vulnerable, and facing deportation after being defrauded by rogue sponsors.
Over the past three years, dozens of Zimbabwean migrants were lured to the UK by unlicensed or unscrupulous”employers” — many of them fellow Zimbabweans — who illegally charged them thousands of pounds for CoS documents, promising employment that never materialised.
Investigative reports by ZimEye exposed how these fake sponsors ran dubious care companies, only to shut them down or disappear once the workers arrived.
Victims were left in legal limbo, homeless, and unable to legally work.
In many cases, they had sold homes and taken out loans back home to secure the false promises of a better life in Britain.
In response to growing outrage and systemic abuse, the UK government has revoked over 470 sponsor licences in the care sector between July 2022 and December 2024, affecting more than 39,000 workers.
Many of these were linked to exploitation, debt bondage, and visa fraud.
Announcing the new rules in Parliament, the Home Office said care providers must now prove they have tried to recruit workers already in England — including those whose original sponsors lost their licences — before bringing in fresh recruits from abroad.
“This ensures that those who came to the UK to pursue a career in adult social care can do so,” said Seema Malhotra, Minister for Migration and Citizenship. “We are requiring employers to prioritise international care workers who are already here and seeking new sponsorship, before recruiting from overseas.”
Malhotra added that the government is committed to tackling visa abuse and exploitation, including banning employers from charging workers sponsorship fees — a practice that has left many Zimbabweans in deep debt and despair.
Stephen Kinnock, Minister of State for Care, echoed these sentiments, saying: “As we crack down on shameful rogue operators, we must do all we can to get the victims back into rewarding careers in adult social care.”
Alongside the changes, new wage requirements will be enforced: Skilled Worker visa holders, including care workers, must now earn at least £12.82 per hour.
Similar adjustments are being made for health and education workers, aligning pay with national scales.
The government is also tightening the Short-Term Student visa route, amid fears it is being exploited by non-genuine applicants.
New powers will allow immigration caseworkers to refuse visas suspected of being used to bypass work rules.
For many Zimbabweans stranded in the UK due to CoS scams, the changes bring a long-awaited opportunity to stay legally, find genuine employers, and rebuild their lives.
“This is a significant reprieve for our people,” said a Zimbabwean community organiser in Birmingham. “After years of suffering in silence, many will finally have a path to stability.”
By Dorrothy Moyo | ZimEye | In an escalation of ZANU PF’s internal succession war, Zimbabwe’s Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi has allegedly urged First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa to move swiftly and decisively to fire Vice President Constantino Chiwenga—declaring that the former general should “forget about succeeding President Mnangagwa in 2028.”
The revelation comes from a pair of high-level, JOC-style meetings—first held in Borrowdale, then at Precabe Farm, President Mnangagwa’s private estate. The gatherings were attended by Mnangagwa himself, Ziyambi, State Security Minister Lovemore Matuke, First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa, and senior operatives including Owen ‘Mudha’ Ncube. Sources say the meetings bore the hallmarks of a Joint Operations Command (JOC) council, even if not officially designated as such.
According to leaked intelligence notes, the agenda was clear: to eliminate internal resistance to Mnangagwa’s continued rule and neutralize potential threats—including Chiwenga and Retired Lieutenant General Engelbert Rugeje. One attendee reportedly volunteered to “carry out the task,” referencing a prior failed operation targeting Rugeje, where gunfire erupted but the former general was absent from the property.
The Precabe meeting followed a tense session in Borrowdale, where the newly installed army commander reportedly warned that if Chiwenga were removed, “the barracks will be hot to touch,” and even he, the commander, might not be able to enter. The statement was viewed as a stark reminder of Chiwenga’s lingering grip on the military.
Ziyambi, meanwhile, has privately dismissed any suggestion that Chiwenga remains in line to succeed Mnangagwa. In a WhatsApp exchange with ZimEye, he shot back at claims the VP was being groomed for 2028: “Who said he cannot be elected in 2030?”—a loaded statement widely interpreted as confirmation that Chiwenga has been politically iced out.
Inside sources close to Auxillia Mnangagwa say she’s grown increasingly wary of Chiwenga’s ambitions and has aligned herself with efforts to extend ED’s rule beyond 2028. Ziyambi reportedly cited a resolution “launched last year at Precabe by Shamu and Tshabangu in ED’s presence” that laid the groundwork for Mnangagwa’s prolonged stay in power, bypassing any VP-led transition.
The meeting reportedly turned theatrical when Mfanha Mutamba declared, “Shefu, if you want me to go arrest him (Chiwenga), I can do it,” underscoring the volatile nature of the political climate and the raw loyalty driving these confrontations.
While Chiwenga has remained publicly silent, insiders suggest he is consolidating support within the military and war veterans. With the JOC-like gatherings deepening factional divides, Zimbabwe finds itself on the brink of a dangerous internal showdown—one not fought in parliament or at the ballot box, but behind closed doors at Precabe.
MWOS FC has surged to the top of the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League table, securing a narrow 1-0 win over ZPC Kariba. The Norton-based team now boasts eleven points, thanks to a crucial first-half goal from Billy Vheremu. Making their debut in the league, MWOS currently holds a one-point lead at the summit of the standings.
In other matches, Dynamos suffered their first defeat of the season at the hands of Manica Diamonds at Sakubva Stadium. The Glamour Boys had started the campaign on a strong note, with three draws and a win, but were ultimately undone by Donald Teguru’s 15th-minute strike for the Gem Boys.
Elsewhere, Scotand FC dominated Bikita Minerals with a convincing 3-0 victory. The newcomers secured their win with goals from Walter Musona and Mthokozisi Msebe, as well as an own goal in the second half.
Defending champions Simba Bhora edged out TelOne 1-0, while Greenfuel secured a narrow 1-0 win over Yadah.
When navigating roundabouts or joining a road, it’s important to be mindful of long vehicles, such as trucks or buses, which may need to use more than one lane to make their turns. These vehicles require additional space and may take a different course than expected to safely maneuver through the area.
To ensure safety for both yourself and the driver of the long vehicle, stay well back and give them plenty of room. Remember, their size and turning radius mean they need extra space to complete the maneuver without obstruction. By keeping a safe distance and being patient, you help prevent accidents and ensure smoother traffic flow for everyone on the road.
Always be aware of the needs of larger vehicles, particularly in tight spaces like roundabouts or when merging onto busy roads. Safety and awareness are key to preventing collisions and promoting safer driving habits.
Produced by Safety and Victims Advocacy Foundation (The Gambia)
The list of women, men plus vulnerable people endangered by Hopewell Chin’ono since 2014, including some who he lured to his Chisipite house claiming he is their “Daddy” figure, include –
Chamisa at Hopewell Chin’ono’s home in 2022, after being promised Daddyistic wisdom.
1. CCC President Nelson Chamisa, from whom Chin’ono needed political endorsement, before turning to destroy his party and career.
2. Rape trial complainant at Falkirk in 2014, against whose safety, Chin’ono competed with the rape suspect to lure her into an affair.
3. NHS expert Grace Mupfurutsa who Hopewell Chin’ono has falsely claimed was sent to a media outfit for an interview on 18 Aug 2020, something that did not happen and Mupfurutsa had shot her son live video the day before on 17 Aug 2020.
4. Several women and tortured activists in the civil society upon whom the army was unleashed after Chin’ono advised the minister of Defence to deploy security forces in order to achieve the avoidance of political tension.
5. Several women who’ve request anonymity and state they were approached in their inbox windows for an affair (see documents).
Check his record. He makes sure that anybody who matters in Zim politics owes him something in order to shut them from speaking against him or challenge the status quo
Anybody who challenges the current government without being close to Hopewell is scandalised and “sold out” by Hopewell to the authorities…,” writes Hulu, @pachisolife
Scores of Zimbabweans continue to testify with compelling evidence that @daddyhope Hopewell Chin’ono has over the decade since 2014 been using journalism/activism to compromise news sources, including his own written admission that he corrupted the Minister Of Defence advising… https://t.co/sQwE92wyGRpic.twitter.com/Y8KdLcv4UM
The National Constitutional Assembly (NCA), led by Professor Lovemore Madhuku, is determined to secure a victory in the upcoming Glen View South by-election set for April 12, 2025.
At a star rally held in the Glen View South constituency on Saturday, Madhuku exuded confidence in his party’s ability to perform strongly in the election, positioning the NCA as a serious contender to challenge the political status quo.
During the rally, Madhuku passionately rallied support for Perpetua Mukanda, the NCA’s candidate for the by-election. He made it clear that the NCA is ready to go up against the established political parties and achieve victory.
“We are here to claim victory. We are a strong and formidable entity. After all, we are no pushovers,” Madhuku declared, his words galvanizing the crowd and reinforcing the party’s resolve to bring change to the region.
Mukanda, the NCA’s representative in Glen View South, also took part in the rally, drawing attention from the community. Her candidacy has brought hope to NCA supporters, who are eager to expand the party’s influence in the area.
While the Glen View South by-election is expected to be a tough contest with various political players involved, the NCA is focused on achieving a decisive win. The party aims to position itself as a key political force in Zimbabwe’s changing political landscape.
With the election just days away, the NCA’s message of empowerment and change is gaining traction among voters in Glen View South, who are preparing to make their voices heard at the polls.
Tsitsi Tawomhera is representing Zanu PF in the by-election.
The Zanu PF Women’s League made a powerful show of support for their candidate, Tsitsi Tawomhera, as they descended on Glen View South Constituency this past Saturday to rally voters ahead of the upcoming by-election.
A strong contingent of Zanu PF leaders attended the event, including Politburo member Charles Tavengwa, the Women’s League National Finance Secretary Mai Mugabe, Harare Provincial Chairperson Masimerembwa, and several other prominent provincial figures.
During the rally, Tsitsi Mugabe, a key figure in the Women’s League, addressed the crowd, expressing unwavering confidence in the party’s victory. “We are winning resoundingly here. Zanu PF is for the people,” she declared, a statement that was met with loud cheers from the gathered supporters.
The presence of these high-ranking officials underscored the importance of the by-election for the party, with the Women’s League mobilizing resources and support to ensure Tawomhera’s victory. The event was filled with energy as party loyalists gathered to reaffirm their commitment to Zanu PF’s leadership and vision for the country.
As the by-election approaches, Zanu PF appears determined to secure Glen View South, and the Women’s League’s active involvement highlights the party’s ongoing efforts to galvanize support at the grassroots level. With leaders like Tsitsi Tawomhera at the forefront, Zanu PF aims to further solidify its presence in the region.
The National Constitutional Assembly (NCA), led by Professor Lovemore Madhuku, is poised to secure a victory in the upcoming Glen View South by-election set for April 12, 2025. During a star rally held on Saturday in the Glen View South constituency, Madhuku expressed unwavering confidence in his party’s chances, positioning the NCA as a formidable political force.
At the rally, Professor Madhuku rallied support for the party’s candidate, Perpetua Mukanda, who will represent the NCA in the highly anticipated by-election. Speaking to a crowd of supporters, Madhuku emphasized the party’s readiness to challenge the political establishment and secure a victory.
“We are here to claim victory. We are a strong and formidable entity. After all, we are no pushovers,” Madhuku declared passionately. His words resonated with the crowd, reinforcing the party’s message of strength and determination in the political landscape.
Mukanda, who is the NCA’s candidate for Glen View South, was also present at the rally, garnering significant attention from the constituents. Her candidacy has sparked a sense of hope among the NCA’s supporters, as they aim to expand their political influence in the region.
The Glen View South by-election is expected to be a closely contested race, with multiple political parties vying for the seat.
The NCA, however, is aiming for a decisive win, positioning itself as a key player in Zimbabwe’s evolving political environment.
With just days left until the election, the NCA’s message of empowerment and change is resonating strongly with voters in Glen View South, as they prepare to head to the polls.
A Zimbabwean artisanal miner lost his life in a tragic incident at the Chinese-owned Sino Africa Huijin mine in Premier Estate, Old Mutare, on Wednesday night. The security guards allegedly shot the miner three times in the face, prompting widespread condemnation.
Farai Maguwu, Director of the Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG), expressed outrage over the incident, describing it as a clear case of homicide. Maguwu questioned the legitimacy of the guards’ actions, citing a lack of self-defense and clear intent to kill.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) have launched an investigation into the allegations, assuring the public that full details will be released soon. However, concerns have been raised over the police’s alleged acceptance of fuel from the Chinese compound, sparking questions about potential bias in the investigation.
The incident has sparked violent protests in the community, with locals demanding justice for the victim and accountability from the mining company. The CNRG is calling for a thorough investigation, a forensic audit of the mine’s finances, and the deportation of the Chinese operators.
This incident is not the first controversy surrounding Sino Africa Huijin. Previous concerns have been raised over the mine’s safety standards, labour practices, and alleged links to gold smuggling.
In January, a worker died under unclear circumstances, and the company offered inadequate compensation to the family .
By Business Reporter-The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) now says it is printing more the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG)ZiG notes in a desperate attempt to shore up confidence, despite the currency having lost value within a month of its debut in April last year.
RBZ Governor John Mushayavanhu confirmed the central bank’s plan to enhance and print new notes, citing a “gradual de-dollarisation roadmap” and claiming the rollout of new designs will take between six months and two years – a delay critics say will do nothing to reverse the eroding trust in the local currency.
“The Reserve Bank is working on enhancing the quality and design of the ZiG banknotes in line with international standards,” Mushayavanhu said, adding that the process was part of broader measures to transition to a monocurrency regime by 2030.
But economists and ordinary Zimbabweans alike are not convinced.
The latest developments expose a troubling pattern in President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration — a repetition of the same failed currency policies implemented under former President Robert Mugabe.
Since 2000, Zimbabwe has introduced and abandoned a string of currencies and monetary instruments, including bearer cheques, bond notes, and electronic RTGS dollars — all of which collapsed under inflation and public rejection.
Mnangagwa’s rise to power in 2017 was marked by promises of economic reform, foreign investment, and a break from Mugabe-era economic mismanagement.
However, the ZANU PF government has doubled down on centralised economic control, monetary policy manipulation, and a hostile business environment, pushing the country further away from genuine recovery.
The latest currency experiment — the ZiG — was marketed as a gold-backed solution to instability.
But it has done little to instil confidence among citizens and investors. Instead, many Zimbabweans continue to rely on the US dollar for everyday transactions, with local currency use hovering at just 35 percent, despite official efforts to enforce de-dollarisation.
While RBZ insists that price stability and controlled inflation — including a reported negative food inflation rate of -0.5%— are signs of ZiG’s success, the broader economic picture remains bleak.
Rent shocks, fuel volatility, and shortages in essential goods continue to undercut official optimism.
The government claims that end-2025 annual inflation will be contained below 30%, paving the way for a 6% GDP growth.
But these projections appear detached from the real challenges facing Zimbabwe’s informalised and largely dollarised economy.
What Zimbabwe needs, economists argue, is not another short-lived local currency, but structural economic reforms to restore investor confidence. These include:
A credible, independent monetary authority
A transparent fiscal policy with zero tolerance for corruption
Property rights that are respected and upheld
Political stability and democratic governance
Rule of law that protects both citizens and investors
Without these fundamentals, any currency — be it ZiG or otherwise — is bound to fail.
From bearer cheques to bond notes, from RTGS dollars to ZiG — Zimbabwe’s monetary history is littered with broken promises and vanished savings.
The return to printing more notes signals not stability, but desperation.
And as long as President Mnangagwa’s government refuses to address the root causes of economic collapse — cronyism, corruption, and policy inconsistency — the ZiG will join the ghosts of currencies past.
By A Correspondent | ZimEye | President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s daughter, Farai on Sunday morning played out’hwugananda’ when she rammed into the RGM Aiport without a ticket.
She was at the time escorting her husband.
For security this secured departure area should
Farai Mnangagwa and her husband who’s flying towards South Africa on Sunday. Farai Mnangagwa…Just after she broke into the secured Airport departure area as if she owns the airport.
For diesel truck enthusiasts, squeezing every bit of performance from a 6.7L Cummins engine is a constant goal. Two popular modifications in the aftermarket World are the6.7 grid heater deleteand upgrading the Cummins air intake horn. These modifications offer distinct benefits, from improved airflow to enhanced engine responsiveness. This article will provide an in-depth look at these modifications, discussing what they are, how they work, their benefits and drawbacks, and practical tips for installation and maintenance. Whether you are a racing enthusiast or a daily driver looking for improved efficiency, understanding these modifications can help you unlock additional power and reliability from your diesel engine.
The Role of the Grid Heater in the 6.7L Cummins
What Is a Grid Heater?
The grid heater is integrated into the intake system of the 6.7L Cummins engine. Its primary function is to warm the incoming air during cold starts. This warming helps improve fuel atomization and combustion efficiency when the engine is not at its ideal operating temperature. In colder climates, the grid heater ensures that the engine starts smoothly and minimizes white smoke emissions during the initial seconds of operation.
Challenges with the Grid Heater
Despite its benefits for cold-weather performance, the grid heater can present several challenges:
Airflow Restriction: The grid heater can act as a bottleneck in the intake system. While its design is intended to provide warmth, it may inadvertently restrict the volume of air reaching the engine, particularly under high-load conditions.
Carbon Buildup: Over time, soot and carbon deposits can accumulate on the grid heater. This buildup further restricts airflow, negatively affecting engine efficiency and power output.
Potential for Mechanical Failure: The grid heater and its fasteners, including bolts, are susceptible to wear and corrosion. Over time, this can lead to issues such as loose or broken bolts, which may compromise the integrity of the intake system.
The Concept of a 6.7 Grid Heater Delete
What Does “Grid Heater Delete” Mean?
Deleting a grid heater involves removing the component from the intake system and replacing it with a modified plate or spacer. The primary objective of this modification is to eliminate the airflow restrictions imposed by the heater grid, thereby allowing a greater volume of cool, dense air to enter the engine. By doing so, the engine can breathe more freely, resulting in improved combustion and potentially higher performance.
Benefits of Performing a Grid Heater Delete
Improved Airflow: Removing the grid heater removes a physical barrier in the intake system. This results in a more open airflow path that can significantly boost the amount of air reaching the combustion chambers. More air means a better air-fuel mixture and enhanced power output.
Enhanced Engine Response: With a less restricted intake, the engine responds more quickly to throttle inputs. This leads to improved acceleration and responsiveness, a critical advantage for performance applications.
Lower Exhaust Temperatures: Increased and more efficient airflow helps maintain cooler intake air temperatures. This can lead to lower exhaust gas temperatures (EGTs), reducing stress on engine components and contributing to longer engine life.
Simplified Maintenance: The grid heater can accumulate deposits and require regular cleaning or replacement. Deleting it eliminates a potential source of maintenance headaches, simplifies upkeep, and reduces long-term costs.
Drawbacks and Considerations
Cold Weather Concerns: One of the grid heater’s primary functions is facilitating easier cold starts. Without it, vehicles operating in frigid climates might experience harder starts, increased white smoke during the warm-up phase, and rough idling until the engine reaches operating temperature.
Emissions Implications: Removing the grid heater, which is part of the emissions control strategy, might have regulatory implications in certain regions. Modifications must comply with local emissions standards and inspections.
Application Specificity: The benefits of a grid heater delete are more pronounced in warmer climates or vehicles used primarily for performance rather than everyday driving in cold conditions. Evaluate your typical operating environment before making this modification.
Exploring the Cummins Air Intake Horn Upgrade
What Is an Air Intake Horn?
The air intake horn, often simply referred to as the intake horn, is a key element of the engine’s air intake system. It connects the intercooler piping to the intake manifold, directing the airflow into the engine. A well-designed Cummins air intake horn is engineered to minimize turbulence and ensure a smooth, continuous flow of air, which is critical for efficient combustion.
Advantages of Upgrading the Air Intake Horn
Maximized Airflow: Aftermarket air intake horns are typically designed with larger diameters and smoother internal passages than stock components. This improved design reduces resistance and allows a higher volume of air to reach the engine, boosting combustion efficiency and power output.
Improved Turbo Response: In turbocharged engines like the 6.7L Cummins, quicker and more efficient airflow leads to faster turbo spool-up. A responsive turbo means you experience less lag, translating into quicker acceleration and improved engine performance.
Better Fuel Economy: With increased airflow and improved combustion efficiency, the engine can operate more efficiently. This improved efficiency can result in better fuel economy over the long term, especially when the engine is tuned to take full advantage of the new intake design.
Durability and Longevity: Aftermarket intake horns are constructed from high-quality materials such as billet aluminum or reinforced polymers. These materials improve performance and offer excellent resistance to heat, corrosion, and wear, ensuring that the component lasts for many years, even under demanding conditions.
Considerations for Air Intake Horn Upgrades
Compatibility: Ensure the upgraded intake horn is designed for the 6.7L Cummins engine. Proper fitment is crucial for maximizing performance gains and avoiding installation issues.
Installation: While many air intake horn upgrades are designed for bolt-on installation, some may require additional modifications or professional assistance. Following the many manufacturing instructions closely ensures a secure and leak-free installation.
Cost vs. Benefit: High-performance air intake horns can be a significant investment. Evaluate the expected performance gains relative to the cost, and consider whether the upgrade aligns with your overall performance goals and budget.
Comparing Grid Heater Delete and Air Intake Horn Upgrades
Synergistic Benefits
Deleting the grid heater and upgrading the air intake horn are two modifications that can work synergistically to improve overall engine performance. Removing the grid heater eliminates an airflow bottleneck, while the upgraded intake horn further refines the airflow path, ensuring maximum air reaches the combustion chambers. Together, these modifications can lead to a more aggressive throttle response, increased horsepower, and better fuel efficiency.
Choosing the Right Strategy
Deciding between a grid heater delete and an air intake horn upgrade—or even implementing both—depends on your specific needs and operating conditions:
Performance Focus: If your primary goal is to maximize power and you operate mainly in warmer climates, a grid heater combined with an upgraded intake horn might be the optimal solution. This combination allows the engine to breathe more freely, resulting in significant performance gains.
Cold Weather Considerations: For those in colder regions, retaining the grid heater might be necessary for reliable cold starts. In such cases, upgrading to an intake horn with enhanced airflow properties can still provide performance benefits without compromising start-up reliability.
Installation and Tuning: Practical Tips
Preparation and Installation
Gather the Necessary Tools: Ensure you have all required tools, such as socket sets, screwdrivers, and torque wrenches. A clean, organized workspace will help streamline the installation process.
Disconnect the Battery: For safety, always disconnect the battery before beginning any modifications to prevent accidental electrical shorts or injuries.
Careful Removal: If performing a grid heater delete, carefully remove the existing grid heater and associated components. Note the mounting points and sensor connections. Remove the stock component for an intake horn upgrade while keeping all hardware organized for reassembly.
Use New Gaskets and Fasteners: When reinstalling components, use high-quality gaskets and, if necessary, replacement bolts to ensure a secure, leak-free installation.
Tuning After Modifications
Once the modifications are complete, it is crucial to have your engine’s air-fuel ratio properly. With increased airflow, the engine’s air-fuel mixture may need to be recalibrated to ensure optimal combustion.
Ignition Timing: Fine-tuning the ignition timing can maximize the benefits of improved airflow, preventing detonation and ensuring smooth performance.
Monitoring Performance: Utilize performance monitoring tools to track key parameters such as boost pressure, exhaust gas temperatures, and throttle response. This data can help you make further adjustments to optimize engine performance.
Real-World Impact and User Experiences
Many diesel enthusiasts who have modified their 6.7L Cummins engines report significant improvements in performance after performing a grid heater delete and upgrading their air intake horns. Users often note:
Stronger Throttle Response: Drivers experience a more immediate response when accelerating, with reduced lag and a more aggressive engine sound.
Higher Horsepower Gains: Combining improved airflow and optimized combustion can lead to measurable increases in horsepower and torque, particularly noticeable during high-load conditions.
Enhanced Fuel Efficiency: Efficient combustion boosts performance and contributes to better fuel economy over time.
Feedback from the community underscores the importance of tailoring these modifications to your specific needs. For instance, those in warmer climates often opt to delete an entire grid heater. At the same time, users in colder regions prefer to upgrade the air intake horn while retaining some heating functionality. Regular maintenance and tuning further ensure that these modifications deliver peak performance.
Conclusion
Optimizing the intake system of your 6.7L Cummins engine is key to unlocking its full potential. Both a grid heater delete and an upgraded air intake horn offer distinct advantages that can improve airflow, throttle response, horsepower, and fuel efficiency.
A grid heater delete removes a critical bottleneck in the intake system for performance enthusiasts, allowing cooler, denser air to fuel combustion. This modification is particularly effective in warmer climates, where cold start issues are less of a concern. Conversely, an upgraded air intake horn refines the pathway for incoming air, ensuring that every cylinder receives maximum airflow. This upgrade boosts performance and contributes to more efficient combustion and smoother engine operation.
Ultimately, the decision between these modifications—or the choice to implement both—depends on your specific operating environment and performance goals. By carefully evaluating the benefits and potential drawbacks, consulting with experienced professionals, and ensuring proper installation and tuning, you can achieve a high-performance, reliable, and efficient diesel engine that meets your demands.
With the right approach, these modifications can transform your driving experience, making your 6.7L Cummins engine more responsive and powerful. Embrace the potential of a finely tuned intake system and enjoy the enhanced performance, efficiency, and reliability of optimizing every aspect of your diesel powerhouse.
By Munacho Gwamanda-President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s grip on power appears to be slipping, amid growing calls for his impeachment following revelations suggesting he may be suffering from vascular dementia.
If this condition is confirmed, the constitution allows Mnangagwa to be impeached for his fitness to govern.
War veteran and former Zanu PF central committee member Blessed Geza alleges that Mnangagwa’s deteriorating mental health has rendered him unfit for office.
During the recent inauguration of Lieutenant General Anselem Sanyatwe as Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces at State House, Mnangagwa reportedly failed to recognise his long-time political ally and Minister of Local Government, July Moyo.
According to sources present, the President asked, “Who is this man? Where is he from, and what does he do?” In a separate incident just days later, Mnangagwa reportedly expressed surprise that the country’s railway system was not operational — an issue that has been a public concern for years.
Geza claims these episodes are symptomatic of vascular dementia, a progressive cognitive disorder caused by reduced blood flow to the brain.
The condition affects memory, judgment, reasoning, language, and spatial awareness.
Sufferers may also experience confusion, irritability, depression, and problems with balance and coordination.
According to Geza, a clique of “looters” within Mnangagwa’s inner circle is exploiting his condition — allegedly manipulating him to sign documents and approve controversial decisions without full awareness of their implications.
He claims frequent and unusual visits to the President’s official residence by senior officials have raised suspicions that the ailing leader is being used as a rubber stamp by powerful interests.
Geza further revealed that a group of lawmakers has begun informal discussions on launching impeachment proceedings against Mnangagwa, citing incapacity and dereliction of duty.
If successful, this would be the first time in Zimbabwe’s history that a sitting President is removed on medical grounds.
The health revelations come at a time of renewed tensions within the ruling Zanu PF party, as long-simmering power struggles between Mnangagwa and his deputy, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, resurface.
The two men have shared an uneasy alliance since the 2017 military coup that toppled long-time leader Robert Mugabe.
Although Chiwenga was instrumental in Mnangagwa’s rise to power, their relationship has grown increasingly strained, with factional battles often playing out behind closed doors.
Chiwenga, who commands significant influence within the military and war veterans’ circles, has long been viewed as a potential successor — or rival — to Mnangagwa.
His ambition to lead has been an open secret in party corridors, and many see the current health scare as a political opportunity for him to consolidate his position.
Sources within Zanu PF say Mnangagwa has in recent months moved to sideline Chiwenga loyalists, while simultaneously promoting his own allies in both the security sector and government ministries.
Mnangagwa’s health crisis also has regional implications.
He currently serves as Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) — a position he assumed in August 2024.
Any instability in Zimbabwe’s leadership could ripple across the region, especially given the country’s strategic location and historical political volatility.
When the then Information Minister Jonathan Moyo incited the bombing of Strive Masiyiwa’s business in 2001, no one thought 24 years later the same person would be the one to accuse the Econet boss, now exiled, over investor arrogance.
Harare – 6 April 2025
By A Correspondent | Former Zimbabwean Information Minister Jonathan Moyo has ignited a fiery online clash with telecoms tycoon Strive Masiyiwa, criticising the Econet founder’s remarks on Africa’s investment environment, and accusing him of arrogance and hypocrisy.
In a strongly worded Twitter post, Moyo lambasted Masiyiwa’s declaration at the Global AI Summit on Africa in Kigali, Rwanda, where the billionaire businessman told African leaders that if an investment environment is not conducive, serious investors like himself would not complain — they would simply “walk away.”
“We won’t come back and tell you your investment environment doesn’t work. We just walk away,” said Masiyiwa, urging African governments to create supportive ecosystems for capital mobilisation and tech development.
Moyo, who as Mugabe’s Information Minister was accused of leading a crackdown on independent media — including reportedly orchestrating the 2001 bombing of The Daily News, where Masiyiwa was a key investor — hit back sharply.
“It was unnecessary and rather recklessly arrogant,” Moyo wrote, accusing Masiyiwa of ignoring the mutual nature of investment relationships. He added that Econet, the company that made Masiyiwa a billionaire, has “become notorious for predatory business practices” in Zimbabwe, offering “shoddy and overpriced telecoms” while showing “no listening culture whatsoever.”
Moyo went on to suggest that Zimbabwean consumers — whom he claims have been “ripped off” — might one day take a cue from Masiyiwa’s own rhetoric and “just walk away” from Econet.
But Moyo’s outburst was quickly challenged by others who highlighted Moyo’s past as a key architect of Zimbabwe’s oppressive media landscape.
“Is the issue about becoming a billionaire (which even criminals can), or about living in a conducive environment?” Chikanza tweeted. “@StriveMasiyiwa5 isn’t concerned about making billions, which scammers like ED have, but about being in a conducive environment where businesses thrive,” said one commentator.
Another critic said: “Out of interest @ProfJNMoyo why is the ecosystem not conducive for investment in Zimbawe? Why hasn’t it been conducive since early 2000? I think Strive was very honest there…”
The Twitter storm has reignited debate over Zimbabwe’s troubled investment climate, government accountability, and the historical role Moyo played in undermining press freedom and hounding entrepreneurs like Masiyiwa out of the country.
Observers note the irony of Moyo — once the face of draconian anti-business policy — now posturing as a defender of investor–state dialogue, especially given his past attacks on media and private enterprise.
With Zimbabwe’s economy still struggling to attract foreign direct investment, and tech giants like Nvidia bypassing Harare for more stable hubs like Nairobi and Kigali, Masiyiwa’s words seem to have struck a nerve — especially in those who once chased him away.
By Business Reporter-A year after its dramatic launch, Zimbabwe’s newest currency, the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG), is fast becoming another phantom in the country’s long trail of failed monetary experiments.
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) now says it is printing more ZiG notes in a desperate attempt to shore up confidence, despite the currency having lost value within a month of its debut in April last year.
RBZ Governor John Mushayavanhu confirmed the central bank’s plan to enhance and print new notes, citing a “gradual de-dollarisation roadmap” and claiming the rollout of new designs will take between six months and two years – a delay critics say will do nothing to reverse the eroding trust in the local currency.
“The Reserve Bank is working on enhancing the quality and design of the ZiG banknotes in line with international standards,” Mushayavanhu said, adding that the process was part of broader measures to transition to a monocurrency regime by 2030.
But economists and ordinary Zimbabweans alike are not convinced.
The latest developments expose a troubling pattern in President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration — a repetition of the same failed currency policies implemented under former President Robert Mugabe.
Since 2000, Zimbabwe has introduced and abandoned a string of currencies and monetary instruments, including bearer cheques, bond notes, and electronic RTGS dollars — all of which collapsed under inflation and public rejection.
Mnangagwa’s rise to power in 2017 was marked by promises of economic reform, foreign investment, and a break from Mugabe-era economic mismanagement.
However, the ZANU PF government has doubled down on centralised economic control, monetary policy manipulation, and a hostile business environment, pushing the country further away from genuine recovery.
The latest currency experiment — the ZiG — was marketed as a gold-backed solution to instability.
But it has done little to instil confidence among citizens and investors. Instead, many Zimbabweans continue to rely on the US dollar for everyday transactions, with local currency use hovering at just 35 percent, despite official efforts to enforce de-dollarisation.
While RBZ insists that price stability and controlled inflation — including a reported negative food inflation rate of -0.5%— are signs of ZiG’s success, the broader economic picture remains bleak.
Rent shocks, fuel volatility, and shortages in essential goods continue to undercut official optimism.
The government claims that end-2025 annual inflation will be contained below 30%, paving the way for a 6% GDP growth.
But these projections appear detached from the real challenges facing Zimbabwe’s informalised and largely dollarised economy.
What Zimbabwe needs, economists argue, is not another short-lived local currency, but structural economic reforms to restore investor confidence. These include:
A credible, independent monetary authority
A transparent fiscal policy with zero tolerance for corruption
Property rights that are respected and upheld
Political stability and democratic governance
Rule of law that protects both citizens and investors
Without these fundamentals, any currency — be it ZiG or otherwise — is bound to fail.
From bearer cheques to bond notes, from RTGS dollars to ZiG — Zimbabwe’s monetary history is littered with broken promises and vanished savings.
The return to printing more notes signals not stability, but desperation.
And as long as President Mnangagwa’s government refuses to address the root causes of economic collapse — cronyism, corruption, and policy inconsistency — the ZiG will join the ghosts of currencies past.
Opinion Analysis: Does Minister Tino Machakaire’s Language Reflect Basic O’Level English Competency?
The controversy surrounding Zimbabwe’s Youth Minister, Tino Machakaire, and his recent public insult directed at a disabled man has triggered widespread outrage—not just for the content of his remarks, but also for the grammatical structure and tone used. This moment offers a revealing opportunity to evaluate whether Machakaire’s communication aligns with what would be expected from someone who has passed O’Level English—a basic qualification for formal communication and leadership roles in Zimbabwe.
Did Minister Tino Machaikire pass his O’Level English, seeing latest his public insult of a disabled man crying for help?
Syntactical Incoherence and Structural Ambiguities
In the leaked exchanges, the minister’s responses (captured in screenshots and reactions from ZimEye and social media) exhibit serious grammatical faults, including:
Poor subject-verb agreement
Unclear sentence construction
Overuse of capitalisation for emphasis (which often signals an attempt to sound authoritative while masking weak grammatical composition)
Lack of coherence in how thoughts are joined, indicating a deficiency in conjunction use and logical flow.
For instance, while the specific insult directed at the disabled activist has not been directly quoted in these images, the widespread outrage reflects that his phrasing not only lacked empathy but also failed the test of articulate leadership. This supports a broader concern: If a public figure cannot formulate a grammatically sound and respectful rebuttal, what does that suggest about their literacy and suitability for public office?
2.
Public Backlash and Crowd Linguistic Judgement
ZimEye’s Twitter poll asks a biting but pointed question: “Did Minister Tino Machaikire pass his O’Level English…?” The leading poll response—“PRODUCE IT NOW OR GO HOME” (64%)—underscores public skepticism about his academic credentials and the quality of his written expression.
In the comments, Cde Knox Chivero plainly states, “He didn’t. He failed, he was at St Marys Makanda.” While this is anecdotal, the overwhelming public sentiment is that Machakaire’s linguistic performance falls below even a pass in secondary school English.
Comments on Facebook further intensify the issue:
“Disgraceful and arrogant… he needs to be respected like any person who has his rights to air his views without being questioned” (Zeitgeist Mpofu) — pointing not only to the insult but how it was poorly articulated.
“In a normal country this would attract outrage leading to a painful resignation” (Kudakwashe Chirume) — linking language with accountability.
“Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks” (Apostle Yotamu) — quoting scripture to frame the minister’s syntax as reflective of character.
These responses point to a collective linguistic judgment by citizens—ordinary people who may not hold PhDs, but who recognize ill-formed English and rhetorical arrogance when they see it.
3.
A Deeper Cultural Literacy Deficit
In Zimbabwe, passing O’Level English is not merely a test of grammar—it is a gatekeeper to employment, credibility, and status. When a minister, especially one leading youth portfolios, demonstrates poor command of English, it undermines confidence in the education system and the meritocratic ideals it was supposed to serve.
Language is not neutral. In this case, the minister’s perceived failure to communicate in standard English while addressing a vulnerable citizen suggests both linguistic weakness and a deeper failure of empathy. The backlash is not just about words—it’s about leadership integrity, emotional intelligence, and basic decency.
Minister Machakaire’s recent statements do not appear to meet the syntactic or compositional standards expected of someone who has passed O’Level English. While public outrage is rightly focused on his offensive content, the linguistic form itself also deserves scrutiny. As citizens demand proof of qualifications, they are calling not just for papers, but for competence and accountability in the public discourse.
In a nation where language is a tool for both oppression and liberation, this case reveals much more than a grammatical lapse—it exposes a fracture in the credibility of Zimbabwe’s leadership.
HIGHLANDERS Football Club’s Chief Executive Officer, Brian Moyo, has stepped down from his position just four months after taking the helm. Moyo’s resignation follows an internal investigation into allegations of fraudulent activities, specifically claims that he inflated sign-on fees for two players recently acquired from Bulawayo Chiefs.
The club’s Chairperson, Kenneth Mhlophe, confirmed Moyo’s resignation in an official statement, assuring stakeholders that Highlanders remains committed to uncovering the truth behind the allegations.
Moyo took over as CEO after the late Sihlangu Dlodlo. However, concerns about financial mismanagement are not new to the club. Last year, independent auditors raised similar issues during the club’s Annual General Meeting, highlighting a pattern of alleged misappropriation of funds.
The 2030 Agenda has served as a wake-up call for Zimbabweans, revealing its negative impact on our country and its people. Interestingly, it has also unintentionally united many citizens in support of General Chiwenga, with growing hope that he will take the reins as Zimbabwe’s next leader.
The current state of governance in Zimbabwe is deeply concerning. Issues such as the misallocation of funds toward unnecessary programs continue to plague the nation. It is essential to promote sound corporate governance practices, particularly within state-owned enterprises.
Zimbabwe’s state-owned enterprises have faced serious challenges, including poor performance, corruption, and a lack of transparency. Research indicates that weak governance structures and a lack of accountability are significant contributors to these issues.
The Zimbabwean government must prioritize transparency, accountability, and good governance by establishing clear guidelines that ensure the separation of powers and foster a culture of responsibility and fairness.
By addressing these governance issues, Zimbabwe can unlock its full potential and work toward a brighter future for all its people.
Zimbabwe’s greatest reggae dancehall singer, Winky D, has once again proven his mettle with the release of his latest song, “Propaganda”. The track is being hailed as one of the best reggae songs ever written by a Zimbabwean artist, with fans praising Winky D’s thought-provoking lyrics and infectious beats.
“Winky D is the voice of the people,” said fan, Takudzwa Moyo. “He’s not afraid to speak truth to power and sing about the struggles of Zimbabweans. ‘Propaganda’ is a game-changer – it’s like he’s holding a mirror to society and forcing us to confront our realities.”
The song was produced by Dynamq, a renowned international reggae sound system selector and music producer from South Sudan. This collaboration has resulted in a track that is both authentic and innovative.
“I’m blown away by Winky D’s lyrical genius,” said fan, Rumbidzai Muzondo. “He’s a true artist who wears his heart on his sleeve. ‘Propaganda’ is a call to action, a reminder that we need to stand up for what we believe in and fight for our rights.”
Winky D’s music has always been a reflection of his surroundings and the struggles of his people. His Extended Play album, “Pabho”, is available to purchase or stream on various platforms, including Qobuz, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
“Winky D is a shining star in the Zimbabwean music scene,” said fan, Tawanda Zvandasara. “He’s a beacon of hope for the youth, a reminder that our voices matter and that we can create change through our art.”
With “Propaganda”, Winky D cements his position as one of Zimbabwe’s most influential musicians, using his platform to speak truth to power and inspire his fans to take action.
By Farai D Hove | In a stunning climbdown, economist and former presidential advisor Eddie Cross has issued a formal apology to President Emmerson Mnangagwa after previously accusing the First Family of grand-scale corruption. Cross, who is also the author of Mnangagwa’s official biography, now says he cannot substantiate the claims he made in a televised interview last week.
In his statement dated 5 April, Cross admitted:
“I recognised that I should not have involved his family, and I apologized unreservedly… I outlined what I was hearing but could not provide firm evidence to support these allegations and rumors. I again apologized and said I would withdraw my statement on this matter.”
However, Cross did not address the glaring contradictions he himself once published regarding Mnangagwa’s Rhodesian-era arrest story—claims that undermined the very basis of the President’s liberation war credentials. The omission has fuelled backlash, with several prominent Zimbabweans accusing Cross of hypocrisy, dishonesty, and selective contrition.
REAL REACTIONS FROM PUBLIC FIGURES:
Hon. Job Sikhala, opposition politician and former political prisoner, blasted Cross for abandoning principle under pressure:
“You called me names when I was persecuted under incarceration by these people calling me a street kid, Eddie Cross. Vazokupinza busy ka Eddie. That’s what happens in life if you don’t know!!!”
Charlton Hwende, Member of Parliament and Citizens Coalition for Change official, questioned Cross’s credibility altogether:
“Eddie Cross uyu akamboita kuti ndi dzingwe mu party after he lied during a NEC meeting that he saw me driving a truck full of youths that assaulted Hon Khupe in Bulawayo. That time I was actually in Namibia… Cross apologized for lying.”
Dr. Walter Mzembi, former cabinet minister, added that Cross had long played a divisive role:
“Mr President @edmnangagwa, Eddie Cross set us on an irrevocable collision course with you to this day, when he addressed Cape Town Press Club, six years ago and made this treasonous…”
Victor Moyo, a social commentator, kept it blunt:
“Azvipinza busy iye ega Eddie Cross wacho.”
(“Eddie Cross brought this mess upon himself.”)
@merrimen_jam, in a widely liked tweet, condemned Cross’s moral compromise:
“Hypocrisy is the lowest form of uselessness that a man can do. There is a huge price to pay for choosing wrong sides in times of great moral conflict… I hope they fry him.”
Despite the apology, many view Cross’s retreat as a cautionary tale of what happens when public figures speak out—and then backpedal—under political heat. Calls are now growing for him to publicly clarify all his previous claims, including the highly contested liberation war narrative he once discredited.
By Munacho Gwamanda- Ware veteran and former Zanu PF central committee member Blessed Geza is pushing for the impeachment of President Emmerson Mnangagwa after revelations that he may have vascular dementia.
If this condition is confirmed, the constitution allows Mnangagwa to be impeached for his fitness to govern.
Geza, alleges that Mnangagwa’s deteriorating mental health has rendered him unfit for office.
During the recent inauguration of Lieutenant General Anselem Sanyatwe as Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces at State House, Mnangagwa reportedly failed to recognise his long-time political ally and Minister of Local Government, July Moyo.
According to sources present, the President asked, “Who is this man? Where is he from, and what does he do?” In a separate incident just days later, Mnangagwa reportedly expressed surprise that the country’s railway system was not operational — an issue that has been a public concern for years.
Geza claims these episodes are symptomatic of vascular dementia, a progressive cognitive disorder caused by reduced blood flow to the brain.
The condition affects memory, judgment, reasoning, language, and spatial awareness.
Sufferers may also experience confusion, irritability, depression, and problems with balance and coordination.
According to Geza, a clique of “looters” within Mnangagwa’s inner circle is exploiting his condition — allegedly manipulating him to sign documents and approve controversial decisions without full awareness of their implications.
He claims frequent and unusual visits to the President’s official residence by senior officials have raised suspicions that the ailing leader is being used as a rubber stamp by powerful interests.
Geza further revealed that a group of lawmakers has begun informal discussions on launching impeachment proceedings against Mnangagwa, citing incapacity and dereliction of duty.
If successful, this would be the first time in Zimbabwe’s history that a sitting President is removed on medical grounds.
The health revelations come at a time of renewed tensions within the ruling Zanu PF party, as long-simmering power struggles between Mnangagwa and his deputy, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, resurface.
The two men have shared an uneasy alliance since the 2017 military coup that toppled long-time leader Robert Mugabe.
Although Chiwenga was instrumental in Mnangagwa’s rise to power, their relationship has grown increasingly strained, with factional battles often playing out behind closed doors.
Chiwenga, who commands significant influence within the military and war veterans’ circles, has long been viewed as a potential successor — or rival — to Mnangagwa.
His ambition to lead has been an open secret in party corridors, and many see the current health scare as a political opportunity for him to consolidate his position.
Sources within Zanu PF say Mnangagwa has in recent months moved to sideline Chiwenga loyalists, while simultaneously promoting his own allies in both the security sector and government ministries.
Mnangagwa’s health crisis also has regional implications.
He currently serves as Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) — a position he assumed in August 2024.
Any instability in Zimbabwe’s leadership could ripple across the region, especially given the country’s strategic location and historical political volatility.
The Zimbabwe national football team, also known as the Warriors, has made significant gains in the latest FIFA Rankings, released on Thursday. After a busy international break, the team has climbed five places to reach number 116 globally, their highest position since September 2021.
During the recent FIFA international break, the Warriors played two crucial matches against Benin and Nigeria in Group C of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. Although they didn’t secure any wins, their draws against higher-ranked opponents earned them ten valuable points. The team drew 2-2 with Benin and 1-1 with Nigeria, showcasing their resilience and determination.
This impressive performance has not only boosted their global ranking but also propelled them to number 30 in Africa, a three-place rise. While Morocco remains the top-ranked team on the continent, the Warriors’ progress is a promising sign for Zimbabwean football.
Globally, Argentina continues to hold the top spot in the FIFA Rankings, but the Warriors’ climb is a notable achievement, especially considering their recent performances against stronger opponents.
With this momentum, the team is poised to make further gains in the rankings and potentially challenge for a spot in the World Cup.
By Munacho Gwamanda- President Emmerson Mnangagwa is facing a fresh political crisis, amid revelations that he may have vascular dementia — a condition that, if confirmed, could trigger impeachment proceedings over his fitness to govern.
The claims were made by war veteran and former Zanu PF Central Committee member Blessed Geza, who alleges that Mnangagwa’s deteriorating mental health has rendered him unfit for office.
Geza argues that under Zimbabwe’s Constitution, the President can be removed on the grounds of incapacity due to ill health.
During the recent inauguration of Lieutenant General Anselem Sanyatwe as Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces at State House, Mnangagwa reportedly failed to recognise his long-time political ally and Minister of Local Government, July Moyo.
According to sources present, the President asked, “Who is this man? Where is he from, and what does he do?” In a separate incident just days later, Mnangagwa reportedly expressed surprise that the country’s railway system was not operational — an issue that has been a public concern for years.
Geza claims these episodes are symptomatic of vascular dementia, a progressive cognitive disorder caused by reduced blood flow to the brain.
The condition affects memory, judgment, reasoning, language, and spatial awareness.
Sufferers may also experience confusion, irritability, depression, and problems with balance and coordination.
According to Geza, a clique of “looters” within Mnangagwa’s inner circle is exploiting his condition — allegedly manipulating him to sign documents and approve controversial decisions without full awareness of their implications.
He claims frequent and unusual visits to the President’s official residence by senior officials have raised suspicions that the ailing leader is being used as a rubber stamp by powerful interests.
Geza further revealed that a group of lawmakers has begun informal discussions on launching impeachment proceedings against Mnangagwa, citing incapacity and dereliction of duty.
If successful, this would be the first time in Zimbabwe’s history that a sitting President is removed on medical grounds.
The health revelations come at a time of renewed tensions within the ruling Zanu PF party, as long-simmering power struggles between Mnangagwa and his deputy, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, resurface.
The two men have shared an uneasy alliance since the 2017 military coup that toppled long-time leader Robert Mugabe.
Although Chiwenga was instrumental in Mnangagwa’s rise to power, their relationship has grown increasingly strained, with factional battles often playing out behind closed doors.
Chiwenga, who commands significant influence within the military and war veterans’ circles, has long been viewed as a potential successor — or rival — to Mnangagwa.
His ambition to lead has been an open secret in party corridors, and many see the current health scare as a political opportunity for him to consolidate his position.
Sources within Zanu PF say Mnangagwa has in recent months moved to sideline Chiwenga loyalists, while simultaneously promoting his own allies in both the security sector and government ministries.
Mnangagwa’s health crisis also has regional implications.
He currently serves as Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) — a position he assumed in August 2024.
Any instability in Zimbabwe’s leadership could ripple across the region, especially given the country’s strategic location and historical political volatility.
When navigating roundabouts or joining a road, it’s important to be mindful of long vehicles, such as trucks or buses, which may need to use more than one lane to make their turns. These vehicles require additional space and may take a different course than expected to safely maneuver through the area.
To ensure safety for both yourself and the driver of the long vehicle, stay well back and give them plenty of room. Remember, their size and turning radius mean they need extra space to complete the maneuver without obstruction. By keeping a safe distance and being patient, you help prevent accidents and ensure smoother traffic flow for everyone on the road.
Always be aware of the needs of larger vehicles, particularly in tight spaces like roundabouts or when merging onto busy roads. Safety and awareness are key to preventing collisions and promoting safer driving habits.
Produced by Safety and Victims Advocacy Foundation (The Gambia)
Zimbabwe’s greatest reggae dancehall singer, Winky D, has once again proven his mettle with the release of his latest song, “Propaganda”. The track is being hailed as one of the best reggae songs ever written by a Zimbabwean artist, with fans praising Winky D’s thought-provoking lyrics and infectious beats.
“Winky D is the voice of the people,” said fan, Takudzwa Moyo. “He’s not afraid to speak truth to power and sing about the struggles of Zimbabweans. ‘Propaganda’ is a game-changer – it’s like he’s holding a mirror to society and forcing us to confront our realities.”
The song was produced by Dynamq, a renowned international reggae sound system selector and music producer from South Sudan. This collaboration has resulted in a track that is both authentic and innovative.
“I’m blown away by Winky D’s lyrical genius,” said fan, Rumbidzai Muzondo. “He’s a true artist who wears his heart on his sleeve. ‘Propaganda’ is a call to action, a reminder that we need to stand up for what we believe in and fight for our rights.”
Winky D’s music has always been a reflection of his surroundings and the struggles of his people. His Extended Play album, “Pabho”, is available to purchase or stream on various platforms, including Qobuz, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.
“Winky D is a shining star in the Zimbabwean music scene,” said fan, Tawanda Zvandasara. “He’s a beacon of hope for the youth, a reminder that our voices matter and that we can create change through our art.”
With “Propaganda”, Winky D cements his position as one of Zimbabwe’s most influential musicians, using his platform to speak truth to power and inspire his fans to take action.
Zaka Ward 24 Zanu PF Councillor Zivanai Zvada is currently in police custody after being arrested on April 1, 2025, for allegedly inciting public disorder.
The arrest stems from a message he forwarded in a local WhatsApp group on March 31, which included the controversial slogan “Mnangagwa must go.”
According to a source, Zvada’s arrest is tied to his support for war veteran Blessed Geza, who has been vocal in challenging President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s attempts to undermine the constitution. The source revealed: “He is being accused of taking Blessed Geza’s side.” Geza, who led protests on March 31 against Mnangagwa’s actions, has also been spearheading efforts to initiate impeachment proceedings against the President.
The arrest of Zvada comes at a time of growing political unrest in Zimbabwe, with many citizens and activists criticizing Mnangagwa’s leadership and calling for his removal. Geza’s push to challenge Mnangagwa’s constitutional actions has garnered attention, and the protests have sparked significant debate on the state of governance in the country.
Zvada’s situation reflects the increasingly tense political climate, with local government officials now finding themselves at odds with the ruling party over the growing discontent.
His arrest has sparked further discussions on freedom of expression and political dissent in Zimbabwe.
By Garikai Chaunza- A prominent Zimbabwean scholar is playing a key role in shaping the academic future of postdoctoral fellows at Rhodes University.
Professor Sybert Mutereko, Director of the Centre for Postgraduate Studies (CPGS) at Rhodes, recently led a successful Postdoctoral Networking Forum in partnership with the university’s Global Engagement Division.
The event, held on March 26, marked the conclusion of the 2025 Annual Postgraduate Orientation Programme and brought together early-career researchers from across disciplines to explore opportunities for academic growth and collaboration.
In his opening remarks, Prof Mutereko introduced the Postdoctoral Framework currently under development and invited feedback to ensure it meets the needs of fellows.
He emphasized Rhodes University’s commitment to nurturing postdocs through three pillars:
Research Leadership – Supporting postdocs to lead interdisciplinary projects.
Skills Development – Enhancing teaching and research capabilities via CHERTL and CPGS.
International Collaboration – Facilitating global research partnerships and scholar mobility.
“Rhodes University is your platform to grow, lead, and innovate,” he said. “Don’t limit yourself to publishing from your PhD. Think bigger. Apply for grants, start your own research initiatives, and transition into academic leadership.”
Rhodes University Vice Chancellor, Prof Sizwe Mabizela
Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sizwe Mabizela, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to postdocs, emphasizing their value to the research enterprise.
“We are determined to ensure that you are not treated as cheap labour, but rather as scholars in your own right,” he said.“Our goal is to help you build strong academic profiles and transition into tenured roles with ease.”
Prof Mabizela also promised increased institutional support, structured programs, mentorship, and funding opportunities, acknowledging the often invisible contributions of postdocs.
“At Rhodes, we inspire imagination, awaken curiosity, and nurture creativity. You have a chance to shape this culture through your mentorship, collaboration, and scholarship,” he said.
Postdoctoral fellow Dr. Sixolile Centane, from the Department of Inorganic-Analytical Chemistry, delivered a powerful address raising two pressing concerns: lack of mentorship in publishing and limited access to funding.
“Publishing is essential for career progression, especially for those aiming for lecturing positions,” she said. “But not all of us had access to academic writing support during our PhDs. We need structured guidance.”
She also highlighted the need for sustainable research funding, travel grants, and support for attending international conferences.
International fellows also flagged administrative hurdles such as visa delays and banking restrictions.
In response, Ms Orla Quinlan, Director of Global Engagement, assured participants that these matters were being addressed at the institutional level.
New Postdoc Fellows Executive Committee with VC Mabizela and Prof Mutereko
The forum concluded with the election of the Postdoctoral Representative Body, designed to give fellows a voice within the university structure:
Chairperson: Dr. Melvine Ouma
Deputy Chairperson: Dr. Bimbo Faforowo
Social & Community Rep: Dr. Nasiphi Ntshanga
Academic & Research Rep: Dr. Eric Maina
Secretary: Vacant
Dr. Ouma, originally from Kenya, shared her journey of navigating life at Rhodes with little guidance.
“When I arrived, I felt unanchored — neither student nor staff. I had to figure it out by trial and error,” she said. “I want future postdocs to have a better, clearer support structure.”
The Centre for Postgraduate Studies hosts the Postdoctoral Networking Forum annually to foster peer connections, encourage research collaboration, and introduce new fellows to available support systems.
The Centre also runs ongoing academic development programs aimed at empowering postgraduates and early-career researchers.
A senior Zanu PF official in Masvingo has passed away under mysterious circumstances.
In a statement on Friday, Zanu PF Masvingo North Constituency MP Brian Mudhumi expressed his grief, saying:
“Today ( Friday ) I was at Zimuto Siding Center to pay my last respects to Cde Tandanda, our Ward 2 District Chairman.
It is a painful moment for our constituency, losing such a luminary and cadre of our great party, Zanu PF.”
He continued, “Two weeks ago, we were together, and he introduced me at Mazambara School, and now we are at his funeral… Very painful indeed. Cde Tandanda’s party history dates back to Cde Stan Mudenge’s era, and up to the time of his untimely death, he had been a stalwart of our party. Tinoti Zororai murugare Cde, RIP Baba Vimbai Zimuto.”
“Tandanda’s death has left a significant void in the party, with many remembering him as a dedicated and long-standing member of Zanu PF,” a party official said.
Zaka Ward 24 Zanu PF Councillor Zivanai Zvada is currently in police custody after being arrested on April 1, 2025, for allegedly inciting public disorder. The arrest stems from a message he forwarded in a local WhatsApp group on March 31, which included the controversial slogan “Mnangagwa must go.”
According to a source, Zvada’s arrest is tied to his support for war veteran Blessed Geza, who has been vocal in challenging President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s attempts to undermine the constitution. The source revealed: “He is being accused of taking Blessed Geza’s side.” Geza, who led protests on March 31 against Mnangagwa’s actions, has also been spearheading efforts to initiate impeachment proceedings against the President.
The arrest of Zvada comes at a time of growing political unrest in Zimbabwe, with many citizens and activists criticizing Mnangagwa’s leadership and calling for his removal. Geza’s push to challenge Mnangagwa’s constitutional actions has garnered attention, and the protests have sparked significant debate on the state of governance in the country.
Zvada’s situation reflects the increasingly tense political climate, with local government officials now finding themselves at odds with the ruling party over the growing discontent.
His arrest has sparked further discussions on freedom of expression and political dissent in Zimbabwe.
By Munacho Gwanda–Christopher Mutsvangwa has crossed the redline after attacking the retired generals and directly ridiculing the recent demotion of Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) Commander General Anselem Sanyatwe, suggesting he was removed for aligning with war veterans led by Blessed “Bombshell” Geza, who has been pushing for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s ouster.
Mnangagwa’s abrupt shake-up of Zimbabwe’s security leadership, including Sanyatwe’s removal, comes amid escalating tensions within Zanu PF and fears of internal dissent ahead of the March 31 protests organized by disgruntled war veterans.
While Mutsvangwa did not mention Sanyatwe by name, he made veiled references to individuals who allegedly sought to use the army for political ambitions.
Speaking at a press conference in Harare, Mutsvangwa lauded Mnangagwa’s move, stating that it was a “masterstroke” that thwarted those who believed they were “anointed to lead and own the Zimbabwe National Army.”
Sanyatwe, a close ally of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, was unceremoniously replaced by Lieutenant General Emmanuel Matatu and reassigned as Minister of Sports, replacing International Olympic Committee president-elect Kirsty Coventry.
His demotion is widely seen as part of Mnangagwa’s broader effort to weaken Chiwenga’s influence within the military and neutralize potential threats to his leadership.
Sanyatwe’s dismissal is the latest episode in the ongoing rivalry between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga, a factional battle that has shaped Zimbabwean politics since the 2017 coup that ousted Robert Mugabe.
Chiwenga, who played a pivotal role in installing Mnangagwa as president, has seen his influence gradually eroded through strategic purges of his military allies.
In recent months, Mnangagwa has reshuffled the top echelons of the security sector, ensuring that key positions are filledwith loyalists. This includes:
Replacing Police Commissioner-General Godwin Matanga with Stephen Mutamba in January.
Appointing former Parks boss Fulton Mangwanya as head of the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO), replacing Isaac Moyo.
Now, removing Sanyatwe and restructuring the military leadership.
The move is widely interpreted as an effort to pre-empt any internal coup attempts and to consolidate Mnangagwa’s grip on power ahead of 2028, when speculation is rife that he may seek a controversial third term.
The shake-up comes amid growing unrest within Zanu PF’s war veterans faction, led by Geza, which has been vocal about corruption and worsening economic conditions.
The veterans had called for mass protests on March 31, citing government mismanagement.
Mutsvangwa, himself a war veteran, dismissed the dissenters as power-hungry opportunists and insisted that the “new security leadership has proven its loyalty to the President and the Constitution.”
However, analysts believe that Sanyatwe’s removal is a direct blow to Chiwenga, further weakening his prospects of succeeding Mnangagwa.
The two leaders have long been locked in a cold war over the 2028 succession, with Chiwenga’s faction seeing Mnangagwa’s security reforms as a deliberate marginalization of military power in favor of civilian control.
As Mnangagwa tightens his hold on Zimbabwe’s security forces, the battle lines between him and Chiwenga continue to deepen, raising speculation about how long this fragile power balance will last.
By A Correspondent | ZimEye | Zimbabweans are demanding answers after police officers were caught refueling their vehicles at the Sino Africa Huijin compound shortly after attending a gruesome murder scene—raising widespread concern over potential bribery and collusion between law enforcement and the accused.
According to Farai Maguwu, Director of the Centre for Natural Resources Governance (CNRG), up to seven Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) vehicles lined up for fuel at the Chinese-owned compound at Premier Estate in Penhalonga. This occurred in the immediate aftermath of a reported homicide in which a Zimbabwean artisanal miner was shot three times in the face by security guards at the same location.
“@PoliceZimbabwe is it lawful for ZRP to get fuel from murder suspects? Was this a bribe? Will justice be served?” Maguwu posted on X (formerly Twitter), sparking intense national outrage.
The victim, described as an unarmed miner, was allegedly murdered with “actual intent to kill,” as Maguwu put it. He noted that guards were not acting in self-defense and labeled the incident a “clear case of homicide.”
Public Reaction:
The public backlash was swift and fierce:
Renowned academic and political analyst Ibbo Mandaza condemned the act, stating: “This is a blatant criminal act, murder! What action so far?” In a separate comment, he added simply: “Incredible!” in disbelief at the police refueling claims.
Social media user @drjaytee87, reflecting public shock, responded: “What?”
Another commenter, Tatenda Kutsirayi, pointed to the serious breach of ethics: “Interfering with suspects. This is wrong at all layers.”
Police Statement:
In response to the growing outcry, the Zimbabwe Republic Police released a statement on Saturday:
“Reference is made to the social media post by Farai Maguwu of Centre for Natural Resources Governance in connection with the violence, murder and allegations that the ZRP vehicles accessed fuel at Sino Africa, Huijin, Premier Estate, Penhalonga while attending to the report. The ZRP assures the public that investigations are being conducted in connection with the allegations. Full details will be released in due course.”
A Crisis of Confidence
Maguwu had earlier reported that the victim’s body remained on the scene for hours while police failed to respond, compounding concerns about the state’s willingness—or ability—to enforce the law in cases involving powerful foreign-owned enterprises.
This incident has reignited public debate over the role of Chinese investments in Zimbabwe’s mining sector and their relationship with state authorities. It also deepens suspicions that justice is often subverted when economic and political interests are involved.
As pressure mounts, legal observers and civil society are calling for an independent investigation and the immediate suspension of officers involved in the fuel acquisition pending the outcome of the probe.
By Munacho Gwamanda – ZANU-PF Mashonaland East Provincial Chairperson Daniel Garwe has emerged visibly shaken after anti-Mnangagwa protests held on March 31 by exiled war veteran and former party insider Blessed Geza — in what insiders describe as a sign of growing panic within President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s inner circle amid signs of a mounting internal revolt led by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga’s loyalists.
Garwe, a vocal Mnangagwa ally and one of the chief proponents of the President’s contentious Vision 2030 agenda, took to the campaign trail in Harare this week, furiously lashing out at Geza and indirectly warning those seen as sympathisers of the rising Chiwenga faction.
Speaking during a rally to support Glen View South parliamentary candidate Tsitsi Tranquillity Tawomhera on Wednesday, Garwe said:
“President Mnangagwa won the election (in 2023). Now, in his second term, some people are already plotting, saying they can’t wait for his term to end and are calling for demonstrations to remove him. What do they mean they ‘can’t wait?’”
His remarks came just days after Geza’s March 31 protests, which, while largely symbolic, reportedly rattled Mnangagwa loyalists already on edge over growing discontent within ZANU-PF and deepening whispers of a looming palace coup.
Behind the theatrics lies a bitter and long-running power struggle between Mnangagwa and his deputy, Chiwenga. While Mnangagwa owes his presidency to the 2017 military coup that ended Robert Mugabe’s rule — an operation spearheaded by then-commander Chiwenga — the two have grown increasingly distant.
Chiwenga, who harbours his own presidential ambitions, has reportedly grown frustrated with Mnangagwa’s attempts to extend his rule beyond two terms, as well as with the sidelining of key military figures from government and party structures.
Once a low-profile war veteran, Geza is believed to be aligned with hardline elements sympathetic to Chiwenga’s faction and the former Mugabe-era camp led by exiled politician Saviour Kasukuwere.
At the rally, Garwe thanked citizens for ignoring calls to protest and threatened Geza directly:
“A stray dog always has an owner… If you want to know its master, beat the dog, and the owner will come out.”
He challenged Geza to return from exile in South Africa:
“I will make Geza wear an apology jersey for his rebellious utterances… Comrades, tell Geza the time for rebels is over.”
Though Garwe did not name Chiwenga, ZANU-PF insiders say the Mnangagwa camp is increasingly suspicious of the Vice President’s silence on internal dissent.
With war veterans like Geza openly questioning Mnangagwa’s legitimacy, and young party activists disgruntled by economic mismanagement and corruption scandals, the President’s support base is under siege — not from the opposition, but from within.
The family of this ZAOGA senior pastor using 3 different IDs, are demanding an apology as the church @FIFMI has allowed him to continue employed for years on “a silly lie that he got trained for pastoral work as a street-kid living in Salisbury Rhodesia’s CBD area for 8 months, clear fiction during apartheid in the 1970s.”
The family of this ZAOGA senior pastor using 3 different IDs, are demanding an apology as the church @FIFMI has allowed him to continue employed for years on “a silly lie that he got trained for pastoral work as a street-kid living in Salisbury Rhodesia’s CBD area for 8 months,… https://t.co/pC8dcM3W5Qpic.twitter.com/klTD3UqI5r
The family of this ZAOGA senior pastor using 3 different IDs, are demanding an apology as the church @FIFMI has allowed him to continue employed for years on “a silly lie that he got trained for pastoral work as a street-kid living in Salisbury Rhodesia’s CBD area for 8 months,… https://t.co/OchEGkJ8aDpic.twitter.com/4lfmYXaGbm
“If President Trump came here today, when I'm still around, I'll be able to talk to him. I'll be able to make requests from him and say, Oh, Mister President, Zimbabwe is open for business. I know Americans like… https://t.co/0BEJFISG7Rpic.twitter.com/v0KQLizzzq
Vitalis Mushayavanhu, Elizabeth’s husband, was residing in Wales at the time of his unexpected death, while Elizabeth was working in Harrogate. The couple, originally from Zimbabwe, had been living apart due to work commitments. Now, Elizabeth faces the daunting and emotional task of repatriating her husband’s body back to Zimbabwe for burial, a process estimated to cost £10,000.
“Elizabeth is the most kind, caring, and compassionate person,” Nicola wrote in the campaign description. “She has cared for our clients with dignity and respect, and now it’s our turn to give back and support her.”
The campaign emphasizes the emotional and financial toll on Elizabeth, who is grieving while trying to arrange her husband’s return to his family and homeland. Nicola is calling on the public to help make this possible by donating or sharing the fundraiser.
“This is not something she should have to be worrying about while grieving her husband’s passing,” Nicola added.
The community is rallying around Elizabeth in this time of sorrow, showcasing the power of solidarity in the face of personal loss. Anyone wishing to help can find the campaign online under the name “Vitalis Mushayavanhu.”
For those able to support, every donation brings Elizabeth one step closer to giving her husband the farewell he deserves.
Contact:
For more information or to donate, please visit the official fundraising page or contact Caremark Harrogate.
Zimbabwe has experienced a concerning rise in snake bites this year, with a total of 1,686 reported cases and six fatalities, according to the latest situational report from the Ministry of Health. The report, released yesterday, highlights the ongoing risks posed by snakes in both rural and urban areas across the country.
The Ministry of Health noted, “The increase in snake bites this year has become a significant public health concern, especially with the onset of the rainy season when snake activity tends to rise.”
Snake bites in Zimbabwe are often encountered by individuals in agricultural and rural communities, where people are more likely to come into contact with venomous snakes while working or walking in the fields. Additionally, the report emphasized the importance of prompt medical attention, as timely intervention can greatly reduce the chances of severe complications or death.
In response to this growing concern, the Ministry of Health has called for increased awareness about snake safety, as well as better access to antivenom treatment in affected areas. Health experts also encourage the public to avoid areas known to have high snake activity, wear protective clothing, and seek medical help immediately after a snake bite.
As the situation develops, authorities are urging both local communities and healthcare providers to be vigilant and prepared for the possibility of more snake bite cases in the coming months.
Zimbabwe has experienced a concerning rise in snake bites this year, with a total of 1,686 reported cases and six fatalities, according to the latest situational report from the Ministry of Health. The report, released yesterday, highlights the ongoing risks posed by snakes in both rural and urban areas across the country.
The Ministry of Health noted, “The increase in snake bites this year has become a significant public health concern, especially with the onset of the rainy season when snake activity tends to rise.”
Snake bites in Zimbabwe are often encountered by individuals in agricultural and rural communities, where people are more likely to come into contact with venomous snakes while working or walking in the fields. Additionally, the report emphasized the importance of prompt medical attention, as timely intervention can greatly reduce the chances of severe complications or death.
In response to this growing concern, the Ministry of Health has called for increased awareness about snake safety, as well as better access to antivenom treatment in affected areas. Health experts also encourage the public to avoid areas known to have high snake activity, wear protective clothing, and seek medical help immediately after a snake bite.
As the situation develops, authorities are urging both local communities and healthcare providers to be vigilant and prepared for the possibility of more snake bite cases in the coming months.
Silobela Man in Court for Poisoning Wife in Tragic GBV Incident
Kwekwe, Zimbabwe – April 5, 2025
A 29-year-old man from Qaqani Village in Silobela has been brought before the Kwekwe Magistrates’ Court facing murder charges in connection with the death of his wife, nearly a year after a violent domestic dispute.
Norest Ndhlovu, of Chief Malisa’s area, stands accused of fatally poisoning his wife during a domestic altercation on the night of May 17, 2024. According to court documents, Ndhlovu allegedly assaulted his wife and forced a poisonous substance down her throat around 9:00 PM. The victim was rushed to hospital, treated, and later discharged, but her condition remained precarious over the following months.
Despite multiple hospital visits, the woman succumbed to the long-term effects of the poison on March 4, 2025, prompting the murder charge. Ndhlovu was remanded in custody and is expected to reappear in court on April 17, 2025.
The case has sparked renewed calls for action against gender-based violence (GBV). The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) has urged the public to seek peaceful ways of resolving domestic conflicts and to make use of third-party mediation services where possible.
#CrimeDoesNotPay | #EndsGBV
This is a developing story. More updates to follow.
By Dorrothy Noyo | ZimEye | Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe is under scrutiny after being caught on camera attempting to get Vice President Constantino Chiwenga to drink from a specific, suspicious bottle of water—an offer the VP pointedly refused.
The incident, captured at a recent public event, shows Garwe handing Chiwenga a particular bottle and insisting he drink it. Chiwenga, visibly cautious, declined. The moment has sparked widespread speculation about internal tensions and raised questions about Garwe’s intentions.
Days later, in a defiant speech at a ZANU-PF rally in Glen View South, Harare, Garwe tried to shift attention from the now-viral footage by declaring that President Emmerson Mnangagwa will not be removed from power, despite rumblings of discontent from within the ruling party’s own ranks.
“President Mnangagwa won the election in 2023. Now, in his second term, some are already plotting, saying they can’t wait for his term to end and are calling for demonstrations to remove him. What do they mean they ‘can’t wait’?” Garwe asked, speaking in support of ZANU-PF parliamentary candidate Tsitsi Tranquillity Tawomhera. “Cde Mnangagwa is our President, whether they like it or not.”
While Garwe publicly praised Mnangagwa’s development initiatives—such as the Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme and the Presidential Borehole Scheme—his credibility was overshadowed by the unanswered question still hanging over the water bottle exchange with Chiwenga.
In an aggressive tone, Garwe also launched a tirade against fugitive former party member Blessed Geza, calling him a “stray dog” and threatening to humiliate him if he returned to Zimbabwe. “Geza, stay in South Africa with (Saviour) Kasukuwere if you want. Our President is Emmerson Mnangagwa,” he said.
But it’s not Geza or Kasukuwere drawing attention—it’s Garwe himself, and the lingering discomfort of a Vice President who refused to drink what was offered.
The optics are damning: a senior minister, caught on video, trying to hand the Vice President a specific bottle—then standing days later to denounce imagined coups and pledge loyalty to the very President at the center of growing internal unease.
As tensions simmer behind the scenes, Zimbabweans are left wondering what, exactly, was in that bottle—and why Chiwenga didn’t want it.
Possible Forehead Injury Observed on President Emmerson Mnangagwa During Victoria Falls Visit
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe – 4 April 2025
By A Correspondent | ZimEye | Photographs captured during President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s public appearance at Victoria Falls on Friday have sparked concern and speculation after he was seen with a pronounced swelling on his forehead, just above his left brow. The swelling appears significant in size and is visibly discoloured, suggesting a recent injury or underlying medical condition.
Observations from the Images
In the series of images released by InfoMinZW, President Mnangagwa is seen engaging in a formal handshake, dressed in his signature scarf in Zimbabwe’s national colours. However, what draws immediate attention is the abnormal protrusion on his forehead. The lump is raised, rounded, and shows signs of inflammation — characteristics consistent with trauma or a localized medical issue.
The swelling appears fresh and tender, suggesting the injury may have occurred within the previous 24 to 48 hours. While no bandaging or covering is visible, the prominence of the swelling implies that the President either opted to attend the event despite discomfort or that his team deemed it manageable enough to proceed without concealment.
Possible Medical Explanations
Based on visual cues, the following are plausible causes of the forehead swelling:
Blunt Force Trauma: The most straightforward explanation could be a bump caused by an accidental knock against a hard object — such as a door, cabinet edge, or accidental fall. The size and position of the swelling support this theory. In older individuals, even a minor impact can lead to significant swelling due to skin thinning and vascular fragility.
Insect or Spider Bite Reaction: Some insect bites can cause rapid swelling, especially if the bite is near vascular or sensitive skin zones like the forehead. If it was an allergic reaction, accompanying redness or rash might also be visible, though this is not clearly seen in the photographs.
Cyst or Abscess Flare-up: Sebaceous cysts or localized infections beneath the skin can also swell quickly and painfully. A sudden flare-up could cause temporary distortion of the area and would require minor medical intervention.
Medical Procedures or Cosmetic Interventions: Although speculative, the swelling could also be post-procedural — either from a minor dermatological treatment or an injection (e.g., cortisone or fillers). However, given the swelling’s shape and size, trauma seems a more likely explanation.
Underlying Health Issue (Less Likely): While less likely from a single external observation, some health conditions like vasculitis or cranial infections can manifest as swellings. However, these are usually accompanied by other systemic symptoms.
Political and Public Implications
President Mnangagwa’s appearance with a visible injury — and no official explanation offered — raises questions not only about his health but also the internal protocols surrounding his public image. In tightly controlled state media environments, any deviation from carefully managed appearances is typically avoided or quickly explained away.
The decision to appear publicly without addressing the injury might have been intended to project strength or normalcy. Still, it inevitably invites public curiosity, particularly in a nation sensitive to leadership optics and political symbolism.
Conclusion
While the exact cause of the injury remains unconfirmed, the swelling on President Mnangagwa’s forehead appears consistent with recent blunt trauma or a localized inflammatory reaction. In the absence of an official statement, the public is left to speculate, fueling intrigue around both his health and the state’s communication strategy.
Given Zimbabwe’s complex political environment and Mnangagwa’s central role, even a minor visible injury like this carries outsized symbolic weight — especially in an election-sensitive or succession-rumour-prone atmosphere.
Dear @ajiunit @aljazeera. When are you going to observe Par 6, and Recital A1, of the contract you and I agreed to dated 21 Feb 2019, since the man you advertise as an Anti Corruption Activist, on our story I launched in 2015, @daddyhope not only has a serious ongoing inquiry to answer both Al Jazeera employees and his former employer for corruption in Zim (£50,000 sportscar loan port-smuggling 1996; human rights abuses against sources 2018-2024 destroying parliamentary-democracy and killing civil society members; and UK Heathrow and Gatwick Airport security breaches May-Aug 2024 being examples), but also admits to accusing the ZimEye source of tension with the Minister of Defence, something that’s causing serious harm to people 2018-2024; and as disclosed during meetings in 2022-23, he is also a publicly known collaborator working with the publicist/mentor of Uebert Angel, and the fugitive Shepherd Bushiri, Maynard Manyowa @iAmKudaMaynard . Since there is evidence of Mr Hopewell Chin’ono causing harm to the ZimEye business operation of exposing corruption that Al Jazeera contracted me for, when are you taking measures possible to protect the source who are at risk?
When are you going to take measures to safeguard the integrity of the ZimEye media operations of exposing corruption in Zimbabwe of Uebert Angel and his mentee’s collaborator, Hopewell Chin’ono?
As you know well, you had advance investigation-warnings of this man during work meetings in Sept 2022, not only by me, but by another Al Jazeera staffer, and an error was done to publicise him as if he is an Anti Corruption Activist in Dec 2022, 3 months later, another 2 years have elapsed and more human rights harm has been done to the ZimEye core source for the documentary(the Zimbabwe Civil Socieify) leading to scores members of then source going into hiding, and even Nelson Chamisa being harassed by your Anti Corruption Activist, Hopewell Chin’ono.
Seeing that two economies are at stake, Zimbabwe and UK, where you are headquartered and so far Chin’ono has encouraged an identity scammer who changed name in the same year he changed his own, to compromise Gatwick Airport records, a case ruled on at Derby County Court in Oct 2024, can you communicate clearly to stop this harm to media business, and the public in general in line with ethics of journalism and fairness.
Your Anti Corruption Activist, @daddyhope is copied herein on this public space where his disruptive conduct caused me to create over 3 different Twitter handles in order to address his disinformation.
In what you do, kindly also label him by his real “Daddy” title he subjects the public to, not an activist, as the latter has been observed in multiple prosecutions to be harmful to the public, particularly minors and women in general. For ease of reference, is the Falkirk, Scotland Prosecution of another Daddy character he as is published, stands accused of interfering in by attempting to lure the main complainant in the prosecution over rape of kids and women in 2014.
Kindly, notify the public and do what’s necessary to protect the news source.
In this light, as you stripped ZimEye and myself of the power to inform, protect the source and expose corruption, kindly also safeguard the UK and Zimbabwe public, by informing them that your Anti Corruption Activist Hopewell Chin’ono has grown his career, by deceiving the news community that Grace Mupfurutsa, a ZimEye contributor since 2016, who is an NHS expert, was sent by the Zimbabwe regime to a media outfit called Gambakwe Media on 18 Aug 2020. The incident did not happen and time-stamps are clear to the effect.
GRAHAMSTOWN, South Africa – Aspiring academic and political scientist Neil Batsirai Maheve has graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Political Science and International Relations from Rhodes University, joining a growing list of Zimbabweans who continue to make remarkable strides in higher education across Southern Africa.
Maheve was capped on Wednesday during Rhodes University’s 2025 graduation ceremony—a colourful and proud occasion marked by academic regalia, celebration, and a deep sense of achievement.
His research adds to the body of critical scholarship emerging from Zimbabwean intellectuals determined to contribute meaningfully to African development discourse.
His thesis, titled “Rethinking Development in Post-Colonial Zimbabwe: The Case of the CAMPFIRE Programme in Kanyemba,” delves into the paradoxes surrounding development, wildlife conservation, and human livelihoods in marginalised communities.
In his abstract, Maheve writes:
“This study explores the attitudes of two communities living in Kanyemba, Zimbabwe, towards CAMPFIRE, a community-based natural resource management programme. The study reveals the nuances and ambiguities Kanyemba residents feel towards development and the differences in the experiences of the two communities. In so doing, the study challenges some aspects of post-development theory, which advocates for the rejection of development, by showing the complicated and ambivalent ways in which marginalised communities engage with development programmes.”
His work makes a significant contribution to debates on participatory development, rural livelihoods, and the contradictions that often accompany externally imposed ‘development’ initiatives in the Global South.
Maheve’s academic journey is a testament to the resilience and enduring pursuit of excellence among Zimbabwean scholars.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts Honours Degree in History and a Master’s Degree in African History, both obtained from the University of Zimbabwe.
In 2020, he undertook a fellowship at Midlands State University, where he conducted research on Indigenous Fruits and Herbs—reflecting his enduring interest in indigenous knowledge systems and African-centred scholarship.
Rhodes University has awarded Maheve a Postdoctoral Fellowship in its Department of Political and International Studies, where he will continue his research and mentorship work.
Maheve joins a long and distinguished line of Zimbabweans who have earned doctoral degrees from Rhodes University, one of South Africa’s most prestigious institutions.
Over the years, Zimbabwean scholars have excelled in fields ranging from journalism and media studies, political science, education, and the humanities to natural and environmental sciences.
Despite economic hardship, political instability, and systemic barriers to education back home, Zimbabweans remain among the most educated populations on the African continent.
Their determination to pursue education—even across borders—speaks to a deep cultural respect for learning, perseverance in the face of adversity, and an unwavering belief in education as a pathway to individual and collective empowerment.
Many Zimbabwean PhD holders from Rhodes University have either returned home or gone overseas to teach at local universities, lead community development programs, and influence public policy—contributing to a quiet but powerful intellectual renaissance.
Speaking after the ceremony, Maheve said his academic journey was inspired by a desire to give voice to communities often excluded from elite policy spaces.
“Research should not be for the shelves; it should speak to the lives of ordinary people. My work is rooted in my home area’s realities and the experiences of those who are often ignored,” he said.
As he begins the next chapter of his academic career, Maheve embodies the spirit of pan-African scholarship: critical, community-focused, and committed to rethinking development in ways that centre African voices.
Manchester City is bracing itself for an emotional farewell as Kevin De Bruyne prepares to bid adieu to the club this summer.
The Belgian midfielder’s illustrious 10-year stint at the Etihad Stadium will come to an end as his contract expires.
De Bruyne’s impact on Manchester City has been profound. As a pivotal player, he has been instrumental in shaping the team’s success, contributing significantly to their dominance in English football. His exceptional vision, passing range, and control have made him a beloved figure among the City faithful.
Throughout his decade-long tenure, De Bruyne has been an integral part of Manchester City’s trophy-laden era, helping the team secure numerous honors, including Premier League titles, FA Cups, and League Cups. His individual accolades are equally impressive, with multiple selections to the PFA Team of the Year and the UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season.
As De Bruyne prepares to embark on a new chapter in his career, Manchester City fans will undoubtedly reflect on the countless memories he has created at the Etihad. His legacy will undoubtedly be celebrated for years to come, cementing his status as one of the greatest players in Manchester City’s history.
This Sunday, Rufaro Stadium will play host to a thrilling encounter between CAPS United and log leaders Ngezi Platinum FC. The Harare giants are determined to turn their season around, currently sitting 14th on the log with four points from four matches.
CAPS United’s Assistant Coach, Tonderai Marime, acknowledged that the team’s performance has not met expectations. “We’ve analyzed our games, and we feel we’re underperforming. The recent result didn’t reflect our efforts, but we’re aware that as CAPS United, we’re expected to deliver.”
Marime emphasized that Sunday’s match against Ngezi Platinum is a must-win to restore the team’s pride. “We need to capitalize on our chances and get back to winning ways. We’re confident in our abilities, and we’re ready to face the challenge.”
Ngezi Platinum, on the other hand, is riding high on a wave of success, having collected maximum points in their last outing against Triangle. They currently occupy pole position, six points ahead of CAPS United.
The match promises to be an exciting encounter, with CAPS United seeking to revive their season and Ngezi Platinum looking to maintain their lead.
When navigating roundabouts or joining a road, it’s important to be mindful of long vehicles, such as trucks or buses, which may need to use more than one lane to make their turns. These vehicles require additional space and may take a different course than expected to safely maneuver through the area.
To ensure safety for both yourself and the driver of the long vehicle, stay well back and give them plenty of room. Remember, their size and turning radius mean they need extra space to complete the maneuver without obstruction. By keeping a safe distance and being patient, you help prevent accidents and ensure smoother traffic flow for everyone on the road.
Always be aware of the needs of larger vehicles, particularly in tight spaces like roundabouts or when merging onto busy roads. Safety and awareness are key to preventing collisions and promoting safer driving habits.
Produced by Safety and Victims Advocacy Foundation (The Gambia)
South Africa- The government has extended the deadline for Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) holders and other visa applicants to the end of September.
The affected are those whose documents expired at the end of March.
The new deadline, now set for 30 September, provides temporary relief for thousands of Zimbabweans who have been left in limbo as authorities work through a backlog of visa and permit applications.
Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber announced the extension on Tuesday under Immigration Directive Number 4 of 2025.
He acknowledged that despite efforts to clear outstanding applications, many remain unprocessed due to administrative delays. “The Department of Home Affairs has been working to resolve the backlog in its visa and permitting system. However, many applications will not be ready for collection before the 31 March deadline due to delays in printing and processing,” Schreiber said.
The decision is particularly significant for Zimbabweans on the ZEP, a special dispensation permit that has been in place since 2009.
Originally introduced as the Dispensation of Zimbabweans Project (DZP), it was later restructured into the Zimbabwe Special Permit (ZSP) in 2014 and the current ZEP in 2017. The ZEP has provided a legal pathway for Zimbabweans who moved to South Africa, but its future remains uncertain. The South African government has indicated plans to phase out exemption permits, urging Zimbabweans to apply for mainstream visas or consider returning home. Around 178,000 Zimbabweans were eligible to apply for new exemption permits, which are set to expire at the end of November. However, processing delays have left many waiting for clarity on their legal status. Under the latest directive, ZEP holders and other affected visa applicants will not be declared undesirable if they choose to leave South Africa before 30 September. Those awaiting the outcome of waiver applications can travel in and out of the country without penalty until then. However, non-visa-exempt individuals with pending waiver applications must apply for a port of entry visa before re-entering South Africa. The directive also applies to long-term visa applicants but does not cover those awaiting permanent residence decisions. Only foreign nationals who have legally entered South Africa and submitted their applications via VFS Global, with verifiable proof of submission, will qualify for this concession. -Online
Two suspects were fatally shot while three others were arrested in connection with the killing of a Bulawayo police officer who was attending a crime scene in Tshabalala suburb.
Sipho Ncube (24) and Dumisani Ndlovu (32) attempted to flee from arrest, leading to a violent shootout with police detectives along Harrow Street, Sauerstown in Bulawayo on Sunday.
Both men later succumbed to gunshot wounds after being admitted to United Bulawayo Hospitals.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the development in a statement.
He said, “In reference to the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s press statement released on March 28, 2025, regarding the shooting of police officer Sergeant Abel Masava in Sizinda, Bulawayo, at approximately 0030 hours, we confirm the arrest of Mandlenkosi Albert Munangati (26), Clifford Desmond Nare (33), and Thabo Dube (24) in connection with the murder. The firearm used to kill the officer has been recovered from the suspects.”
Nyathi further revealed that the suspects were also connected to a series of armed robberies in the Bulawayo area that occurred between April 22, 2024, and March 28, 2025. “On March 30, 2025, detectives received information linking a Honda Fit vehicle, registration number AGG 8380, to the murder and several armed robbery cases in Bulawayo. The vehicle was tracked, leading to the arrest of Munangati,” he said.
Upon interrogation, Munangati implicated the other suspects, which led to the recovery of five firearms, including a National Browning pistol, Blow F92 Blank pellet gun, Long Rifle 12GA 76/3-inch-long, Vizor Pistol, shotgun, and a sword.
Two other suspects, Sipho Ncube and Dumisani Ndlovu, attempted to flee when confronted by police. A shootout ensued along Harrow Street, resulting in their deaths after being admitted to United Bulawayo Hospitals.
“The suspects are linked to 25 armed robbery cases, including one at a supermarket in New Luveve on December 28, 2024, where cash and three cellphones were stolen. Another robbery occurred at a funeral parlour in Kelvin North, Bulawayo, on February 10, 2025, where US$3,608, R21,130, and a cellphone were taken,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
He added that the suspects were also involved in a robbery at a service station at the corner of Nketa Drive and Rangemore Road on March 2, 2025, where a shotgun and a cellphone were stolen. Investigations revealed that the group targeted service stations, liquor outlets, supermarkets, funeral parlours, and gas operators.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police appreciates the public for providing valuable information that led to the arrest of the suspects. We encourage the public to continue sharing information via the National Complaints Desk at (0242) 703631, WhatsApp on 0712 800 197, or report to the nearest police station. We reiterate that the fight against robbery syndicates in the country will continue relentlessly, and the law will take its course without fear or favour,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
Controversial Zanu PF businessman Wicknell Chivayo has donated a brand-new vehicle to Zion Christian Church (ZCC) leader Bishop Nehemiah Mutendi.
In a statement released on Friday morning, Chivayo expressed:
TIRIPA JOIN YE ZION
“There is nothing more fulfilling in this life than witnessing compassion being extended to the less privileged and vulnerable members of our communities, especially children, women, and young girls who face limited educational opportunities and have grown up in abject poverty. The remarkable work of the Zion Christian Church in Masvingo, led by His Grace Bishop Nehemiah Mutendi and Amai Mutendi, is a true testament to selfless giving and love for one another.
I am filled with great pride knowing that following my donation of US$1 million in April of last year, the ZCC has made phenomenal progress in supporting charitable organizations and making donations to hospitals and schools under the guidance of His Grace and Amai Mutendi. I was impressed by the audited financial statements provided, showing the clear allocation of funds and their impact.
Bishop Mutendi, your dedication to providing opportunities for the underprivileged within communities is unparalleled. During my visits to Mbungo and Defe, I was deeply impressed by the extensive initiatives the church has undertaken under your spiritual leadership. The magnificent church and the journey to the holy shrine to witness ‘Parere Muporofita Sameri,’ though from a distance, was spiritually fulfilling. Particularly notable is the church’s commitment to paying school fees for orphans and vulnerable children, caring for the elderly, and initiating community projects to combat drought-induced hunger and socio-economic challenges in Masvingo and across the country. This aligns perfectly with President E.D. Mnangagwa’s mantra, ‘Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo.’
In recognition of your extraordinary work, His Grace, Bishop Mutendi, and the crucial role Amai Mutendi plays in supporting the spiritual leadership of such a large congregation, I had the honor of personally selecting a fitting gift as a small token of my appreciation for them. Yesterday, I was delighted to purchase a 2025 Range Rover Autobiography SV valued at US$400,000 for the Bishop, and a 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series valued at US$190,000 for Amai Mutendi, both brand new, to support their philanthropic and evangelical endeavors.
I would be most honored to receive His Grace’s acceptance of this small gesture, acknowledging the remarkable work of God that he is tirelessly advancing through the ZCC.
By Business Reporter-Renowned entrepreneur and WestProp Holdings Chief Executive, Mr. Ken Sharpe, has inspired Zimbabweans to focus on building generational wealth that endures beyond their lifetimes and uplifts entire communities.
Addressing the CEO Africa Roundtable Zimbabwe Wealth and Retirement Summit, Mr. Sharpe delivered a powerful message on the purpose and value of wealth.
“Wealth is not just about accumulating riches; it’s about leaving a lasting legacy,” he declared. “God blesses us to be a blessing to others. It’s our responsibility to use our wealth to uplift those around us — through family, philanthropy, or community development.”
A self-proclaimed “man of the future,” Mr. Sharpe is not only talking legacy — he’s building it.
Under his visionary leadership, WestProp has set an ambitious target to lay one billion bricks by 2050, reshaping Zimbabwe’s urban landscape and economic prospects.
From pioneering developments like Millennium Heights, Pomona City, and Warren Hills Golf Estate, to transforming housing into hubs of opportunity and lifestyle, Sharpe is championing smart, sustainable growth grounded in Christian values and ethical leadership.
“We must think beyond our own lifetimes,” he said. “We can’t take our wealth to the grave, but we can pass down its values and purpose. Our children and grandchildren must learn about wealth creation, moral integrity, and hard work.”
Mr. Sharpe also applauded the CEO Africa Roundtable for fostering dialogue and innovation.
“Together, we can make a difference in Zimbabwe. Let’s unite to build a brighter future for our nation and generations to come.”
More than just bricks and buildings, Ken Sharpe is constructing a vision of hope, responsibility, and lasting prosperity — setting the blueprint for a better Zimbabwe.
In a notable move signaling internal unrest, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has removed Dr. Sithembiso Nyoni from her role as the Minister of Environment, Climate, and Wildlife.
This decision came as a surprise and has fueled growing speculation about political instability within the government.
The Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr. Martin Rushwaya, confirmed the change in a statement, noting that Nyoni’s removal was effective immediately and made in accordance with Zimbabwe’s constitution. The statement read:
“His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Cde Dr. E D Mnangagwa, has in terms of section 340, subsection (1), paragraph (f), as read with section 108, subsection (1), paragraph (a) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, removed Sithembiso Gile Gladys Nyoni from the position of Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife with immediate effect.”
The removal of Dr. Nyoni comes amidst rising tensions within Zimbabwe’s political landscape. Recently, war veteran Blessed Geza has openly challenged President Mnangagwa’s efforts to extend his political tenure beyond constitutional limits, sparking protests. Geza’s opposition, particularly regarding Mnangagwa’s alleged attempts to secure a third term, has fueled growing unrest, contributing to the broader political uncertainty in the country.
This shake-up in the Cabinet could be seen as part of the ongoing political turbulence surrounding Mnangagwa’s leadership.
War veteran Blessed Runesu Geza, widely known as Comrade Bombshell, declared that he and his colleagues, who oppose President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s third-term aspirations, are now pursuing the impeachment route.
Impeachment is a legal procedure used to formally accuse a public official, such as a president, of misconduct or illegal actions while in office, with the ultimate aim of removing them from office if they are found guilty.
In a video posted on his YouTube channel on April 2, Geza announced that they have taken significant steps in their push to remove President Mnangagwa from power. “Today, I am announcing a further step in our fight to rescue Zimbabwe from Emmerson and his looting mafia. We have escalated our efforts. We are moving forward with the impeachment of President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa. The die is cast, and tomorrow we begin this process,” Geza stated.
Geza went on to elaborate that their move for impeachment stems from claims that President Mnangagwa is no longer mentally capable of performing his duties. “We are constitutionalists, so we are using the Constitution to reclaim the country. Section 97(1)(d) of the Constitution allows for the removal of a president due to incapacity to perform presidential functions, specifically when there is a lack of mental capacity,” he added.
The war veteran further claimed that President Mnangagwa is suffering from vascular dementia, which he believes renders the president incapable of fulfilling his presidential responsibilities effectively. Vascular dementia is a condition caused by poor blood circulation to the brain, leading to cognitive impairment such as memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with thinking and problem-solving.
“Mnangagwa is suffering from vascular dementia,” Geza asserted. “We have copies of his medical records. His doctors have informed him, his family is aware, and the looting mafia knows about it too.”
Geza claimed that some members of Mnangagwa’s family and associates, particularly individuals linked to businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei, are exploiting the president’s condition. “They are taking advantage of his memory loss and confusion to have him sign documents that promote their corruption and looting,” he said.
According to Geza, the extent of Mnangagwa’s cognitive decline is severe. “Last Thursday, he forgot who July Moyo was and which ministry he heads. He even argues with his aides about whether he is at home or in the office. The situation is dire,” Geza explained.
He further accused those around the president of manipulating his condition for their benefit. “As a result, vultures are circling. They are looting in his name, selling off state-owned enterprises, and making decisions like hiring and firing officials as if they are in charge,” Geza claimed.
Geza went on to highlight that unelected individuals have been taking advantage of Mnangagwa’s condition to exercise presidential powers. “Unvetted individuals, whom the public didn’t elect, are now wielding presidential authority. They follow him to his farm, awarding government tenders in his name. They seize land in his name, and they even appoint or dismiss high-ranking officials such as army generals on his behalf. It’s become a free-for-all for the criminals around him,” he said.
In the past, President Mnangagwa had mentioned that he was aware of some members of parliament plotting to impeach him after his election. “In May 2018, Mnangagwa informed ZANU-PF members that he had received intelligence about potential impeachment attempts,” Geza recalled.
Prominent businessman and Doves Holdings Board Member, Farai Matsika and his Chief Executive Officer, Edison Gatsi, allegedly launched a savage and vicious physical attack on a defenceless female General Manager at Botha Gold Mine in Bindura after she rightfully denied them unlawful entry.
The shocking incident unfolded when Matsika and Gatsi attempted to force their way into the mine with heavy equipment, despite having no contract or legal right to access the property.
The female General Manager, a respected professional, stood her ground and politely refused them entry, only to be met with a torrent of unprintable profanities and unprovoked, barbaric physical violence.
Doves Chief Executive Officer, Edison Gatsi,
Eyewitnesses report that Gatsi, in a fit of rage, lashed out at the woman, leaving her with injuries and a smashed mobile phone in what can only be described as a blatant act of male intimidation and brutality. Had mine security not intervened swiftly, the situation could have escalated into an even more horrific assault.
The traumatised victim has since reported the assault to Bindura Central Police Station under RRB Number: 12/04/25CR. However, given the high-profile status of the accused, there are fears that wealth and influence may be used to sweep this shameful incident under the rug.
This is not the first time Matsika and Gatsi have been embroiled in scandalous misconduct. In 2021, the pair faced allegations of stripping a life assurance firm of its assets, raising serious questions about their ethical standards and disregard for the law. Now, their thuggish behaviour has escalated to physical violence against a woman in the workplace.
This brazen attack is not just an assault on one woman, it is an affront to professional women everywhere who face intimidation and aggression in male-dominated industries. The Botha Gold Mine incident must serve as a wake-up call: no one is above the law, and violence against women, especially in the workplace, must be met with the full force of justice.
Tarusenga Makamba, a prominent Zanu PF figure from Chiredzi, has been denied bail and will remain in custody until his next court appearance on April 16.
Makamba’s arrest is linked to allegations of inciting public violence, which authorities claim is connected to his support for war veteran Blessed Geza’s calls for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s removal.
The controversy surrounding Makamba’s arrest centers on an audio message he sent to a Zanu PF WhatsApp group, which authorities interpret as a coded message of support for Vice President Constantino Chiwenga.
The message, “Chikomo cheHwedza ngachipfungaure,” is believed to refer to Chiwenga’s hometown of Wedza and is seen as a veiled endorsement of his alleged bid to succeed Mnangagwa.
Makamba’s lawyer, Wellington Muzenda, argued that the audio message does not constitute an offense, as it does not explicitly mention Zanu PF or the government.
Additionally, Muzenda pointed out that the phrase refers to a mountain in Hwedza, which holds cultural significance.
However, the magistrate, Tendai Mutamba, dismissed Makamba’s application, ruling that he will remain in custody.
The case has sparked concerns about freedom of speech and political expression in Zimbabwe.
Under Section 97 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe (2013)
Motion in terms of section 97(1)(d) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe regarding the “inability to perform the functions of the office of President because of lack of mental capacity to discharge the duties and functions of the office of the President.”
Further a Motion flowing from the said lack of mental capacity to discharge the duties and functions of the office of the President, a motion in terms of section 97(1)(c) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe regarding the “willful violation of the Constitution.”
Whereas section 97 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe provides for the removal of the President from office on any of the five (5) grounds set out in section 97(1)(a) to (e).
Whereas circumstances and events have arisen as well as facts ascertained from medical teams dealing with the situation of the mental health and capacity of the President, that the President as of this day the 30th of March 2025 has been physically ascertained and medically confirmed to be exhibiting severe cognitive decline, affecting both long and short memory and thinking, judgment and behavior.
Concerned that the severe cognitive decline of the President is as a result of a confirmed and ascertained medical diagnosis of vascular dementia, a medical condition characterized by persistent and recurrent cognitive deficits, failures, and relapses.
Further concerned:
The President lacks mental capacity to perform the functions of his office.
His condition poses a national security risk.
He cannot make sound judgments on defense, economic policy, or diplomacy.
His incapacity has led to economic mismanagement, grand looting, and unchecked corruption.
He has failed to provide coherent policy direction and respect for the Constitution.
Instances of delusional statements, memory lapses, and inability to recognize his own senior officials have been reported.
Whereas due to this decline, the President has made irrational and detrimental decisions (the irrational decisions) and persons around him have seized his executive authority, making decisions purportedly in his name (the captured decisions).
Some of the Irrational & Captured Decisions by President Mnangagwa:
Fraudulent issuance of Treasury Bills to Kudakwashe Tagwirei, resulting in currency collapse and loss of approx. US$4.5 billion from 2019–2024.
Privatization of POSB Bank and laundering of US$6 billion via dubious investors (the Hebrew Group), instructed by the President and Attorney General Virginia Mabhiza.
Looting of US$1.9 billion via sale of Kuvimba Mining House shares, involving Tagwirei, Mthuli Ncube, George Guvamatanga, and John Mangudya.
Grand looting through dubious Presidential projects, e.g.:
Hijacking of the e-passport system, turning it into a looting scheme bringing in tens of millions of US$ annually, channeled via CBZ Bank and Blue Star (controlled by Tagwirei and Mnangagwa Jr.).
Covering up a US$100 million ZEC fraud involving Wicknell Chivhayo, Mike Chimombe, and Moses Mpofu, with cash siphoned from the Treasury and shared with the President’s family.
Ministry of Finance’s mismanagement, led by Ncube and Guvamatanga, issuing billions in Treasury Bills, leading to pension collapse and investor distrust.
Ballooning national debt, now US$21.1 billion, up from US$9.9 billion under Mugabe, with no sustainable repayment plans.
Gold Export Incentive Scheme looted by Scott Sakupwanya and Tagwirei through Betterbrands, with over US$750 million defrauded from the Treasury.
Issuance of Dangerous Drugs Permits to allies (via Chivhayo), fueling illegal drug trade bringing in millions of US$, enriching the criminal network.
Vision 2030 campaign, deemed unconstitutional and irrational, allegedly aimed at illegally extending the President’s term and deepening national debt.
Now Therefore, the Senate and National Assembly in joint sitting are called upon to pass a resolution:
Authorizing the Committee on Standing Rules and Orders to appoint a joint committee (under section 97(2)) to investigate the removal of the President on the grounds in section 97(1)(c) and (d).
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has expressed satisfaction with the performance of the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency, marking one year since its introduction. Despite some fluctuations in its value, the central bank remains optimistic about its role in the country’s economic landscape.
RBZ Governor John Mushayavanhu highlighted the positive reception the ZiG has received since its launch, acknowledging the challenges it faces but emphasizing its stability. “We have seen wide acceptance of ZiG and stability. It has been a year now since we introduced ZiG, and there is stability,” Mushayavanhu said in a recent statement.
While the ZiG has faced some depreciation over the past year, it continues to serve as an important tool for Zimbabweans looking for an alternative to the volatile local currency. The central bank’s report underscores that the overall acceptance of ZiG by the public and businesses has contributed to a more stable financial environment.
Despite the challenges, the RBZ remains confident that the ZiG will continue to play a crucial role in Zimbabwe’s economy, particularly in times of uncertainty, and is committed to monitoring its progress and making adjustments where necessary.
South Africa- The Department of Home Affairs has extended the deadline for Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) holders and other visa applicants to the end of September.
The affected are those whose documents expired at the end of March.
The new deadline, now set for 30 September, provides temporary relief for thousands of Zimbabweans who have been left in limbo as authorities work through a backlog of visa and permit applications.
Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber announced the extension on Tuesday under Immigration Directive Number 4 of 2025.
He acknowledged that despite efforts to clear outstanding applications, many remain unprocessed due to administrative delays. “The Department of Home Affairs has been working to resolve the backlog in its visa and permitting system. However, many applications will not be ready for collection before the 31 March deadline due to delays in printing and processing,” Schreiber said.
The decision is particularly significant for Zimbabweans on the ZEP, a special dispensation permit that has been in place since 2009.
Originally introduced as the Dispensation of Zimbabweans Project (DZP), it was later restructured into the Zimbabwe Special Permit (ZSP) in 2014 and the current ZEP in 2017. The ZEP has provided a legal pathway for Zimbabweans who moved to South Africa, but its future remains uncertain. The South African government has indicated plans to phase out exemption permits, urging Zimbabweans to apply for mainstream visas or consider returning home. Around 178,000 Zimbabweans were eligible to apply for new exemption permits, which are set to expire at the end of November. However, processing delays have left many waiting for clarity on their legal status. Under the latest directive, ZEP holders and other affected visa applicants will not be declared undesirable if they choose to leave South Africa before 30 September. Those awaiting the outcome of waiver applications can travel in and out of the country without penalty until then. However, non-visa-exempt individuals with pending waiver applications must apply for a port of entry visa before re-entering South Africa. The directive also applies to long-term visa applicants but does not cover those awaiting permanent residence decisions. Only foreign nationals who have legally entered South Africa and submitted their applications via VFS Global, with verifiable proof of submission, will qualify for this concession. -Online
By Courts and Crime Reporter- The deputy head of Masase High School in Mberengwa is wanted by the police in connection with the sodomy of over 35 pupils at the school!
Anymore Gumbo reportedly sneaked out of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Zimbabwe (ELCZ)-run school premises on Friday after police descended to investigate the shocking reports.
Sources say Gumbo would lure pupils into his office before attacking them in a horrific abuse of power.
Police and education officials have launched a probe, but insiders claim the school’s headmaster, Mr Albion Masukume, tried to cover up the scandal! “Officials rushed to the school after an anonymous tip-off from a teacher. The headmaster runs a tight ship—pupils can only report issues to him, leaving many victims suffering in silence,” fumed a parent whose child was brutalised.
The parent even dropped a bombshell, alleging the headmaster himself could be involved!
Masukume admitted the scandal but denied any role, claiming he had informed parents and handed the case to police.
In a shaky letter, he wrote: “I write with sorrow… allegations of child abuse by a staff member were reported. Investigations are underway.” Midlands police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed Gumbo is STILL AT LARGE!
Minister Owen ‘Mudha’ Ncube Celebrates Explosives Manufacturing, Amid Allegations of Plotting False Charges Against War Veteran Activist
GWERU – Friday, 4 April 2025
By A Correspondent | In a startling development likely to intensify political tensions, Zimbabwe’s Minister of State for Midlands Province, Hon. Owen “Mudha” Ncube, is today publicly celebrating the province’s monopoly over civil explosives manufacturing — a move that appears to validate explosive claims recently made by war veteran and anti-corruption activist Blessed Geza.
The minister is currently attending the Midlands Investment Conference in Gweru, where he is spearheading a campaign to rebrand the province as Zimbabwe’s investment epicenter under the theme “Midlands Province: The Resource Centre of Zimbabwe – Unlock and Explore Unlimited Opportunities.” Among key highlights showcased is the province’s role as the sole supplier of Zimbabwe’s civil explosives, alongside strategic investments in mining, agriculture, and infrastructure.
Owen Mudha on Friday
But beneath the polished veneer of investment pledges and urban development promises, critics say there’s a darker undertone. Activist Blessed Geza, a vocal critic of corruption within the ruling elite, recently raised alarms that Minister Ncube is involved in a covert operation to falsely accuse him of criminal conduct — including the potential use of explosive-related charges.
Geza, known for exposing elite abuses and calling for transparency in security-linked investments, warned that the strategic positioning of Midlands in the civil explosives industry grants Ncube not only economic clout but dangerous leverage to fabricate cases against political opponents.
Owen Ncube chatting together with Mthuli Ncube
“This is not just about investment — it’s about control,” Geza said earlier this week. “The Minister is weaponizing industrial power for personal vendettas. The explosives angle is not coincidental; it’s calculated.”
Today’s emphasis by Minister Ncube on Midlands’ 100% control over Zimbabwe’s explosives sector — delivered with visible pride — may lend credence to those fears.
Observers also note the minister’s push for “efficient service delivery” and “fast-tracked approvals” during the conference may mask efforts to bypass oversight in sensitive sectors, including arms-linked production.
The five-day Midlands Investment Conference, running from 25 to 29 March at Village Lodge in Gweru, features major stakeholders including Dinson Iron and Steel Company, which is contributing 50MW to the national grid, and updates on the Manhize Smart City development.
However, for some, the biggest development isn’t in steel or smart cities — it’s the chilling implications of what happens when a provincial minister with a controversial history gains unchecked influence over explosive resources in a country already wrestling with political repression and corruption.
A deputy head at Masase High School in Mberengwa has fled, following allegations of child abuse misconduct. According to a letter from the school head, Masukume A, the allegations were reported, prompting swift action from the authorities.
“The allegations of child abuse by one of our staff members was reported,” the school head wrote. “Currently, thorough investigations by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education and the police are underway. The alleged victim was taken to hospital swiftly and was examined by a medical doctor. A police report was filed with the Victim Friendly Unit at Mberengwa Charge Office the same day.”
The school head assured parents and guardians that updates on the investigation’s findings will be provided as soon as possible. “Meanwhile, the alleged perpetrator is not at the station and is being sought after for interrogation so that he responds to the allegations,” the letter stated.
“I shall update you in the shortest possible time frame on the findings once the investigations are concluded. I thank you.” – Masukume A, School Head, Masase High School.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of students at the school. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the whereabouts of the deputy head to come forward.
Two suspects were fatally shot while three others were arrested in connection with the killing of a Bulawayo police officer who was attending a crime scene in Tshabalala suburb.
Sipho Ncube (24) and Dumisani Ndlovu (32) attempted to flee from arrest, leading to a violent shootout with police detectives along Harrow Street, Sauerstown in Bulawayo on Sunday.
Both men later succumbed to gunshot wounds after being admitted to United Bulawayo Hospitals.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the development in a statement.
He said, “In reference to the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s press statement released on March 28, 2025, regarding the shooting of police officer Sergeant Abel Masava in Sizinda, Bulawayo, at approximately 0030 hours, we confirm the arrest of Mandlenkosi Albert Munangati (26), Clifford Desmond Nare (33), and Thabo Dube (24) in connection with the murder. The firearm used to kill the officer has been recovered from the suspects.”
Nyathi further revealed that the suspects were also connected to a series of armed robberies in the Bulawayo area that occurred between April 22, 2024, and March 28, 2025. “On March 30, 2025, detectives received information linking a Honda Fit vehicle, registration number AGG 8380, to the murder and several armed robbery cases in Bulawayo. The vehicle was tracked, leading to the arrest of Munangati,” he said.
Upon interrogation, Munangati implicated the other suspects, which led to the recovery of five firearms, including a National Browning pistol, Blow F92 Blank pellet gun, Long Rifle 12GA 76/3-inch-long, Vizor Pistol, shotgun, and a sword.
Two other suspects, Sipho Ncube and Dumisani Ndlovu, attempted to flee when confronted by police. A shootout ensued along Harrow Street, resulting in their deaths after being admitted to United Bulawayo Hospitals.
“The suspects are linked to 25 armed robbery cases, including one at a supermarket in New Luveve on December 28, 2024, where cash and three cellphones were stolen. Another robbery occurred at a funeral parlour in Kelvin North, Bulawayo, on February 10, 2025, where US$3,608, R21,130, and a cellphone were taken,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
He added that the suspects were also involved in a robbery at a service station at the corner of Nketa Drive and Rangemore Road on March 2, 2025, where a shotgun and a cellphone were stolen. Investigations revealed that the group targeted service stations, liquor outlets, supermarkets, funeral parlours, and gas operators.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police appreciates the public for providing valuable information that led to the arrest of the suspects. We encourage the public to continue sharing information via the National Complaints Desk at (0242) 703631, WhatsApp on 0712 800 197, or report to the nearest police station. We reiterate that the fight against robbery syndicates in the country will continue relentlessly, and the law will take its course without fear or favour,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
Which “Daddy” character created “Mutsvangwa’s fled to Dubai” WhatsApp-Lie in order to discredit Blessed Geza, has spent 7 years trying to destroy Chamisa, and still can’t name his Airport-paperwork’s source?
“Belly First, Beer Later? Can You Reduce Belly Fat Without Giving Up the Brew?”
By Dorrothy Moyo | A recent image that surfaced online—featuring a confident man dressed head-to-toe in branded white Mario Morato gear, clutching a green bottle and proudly displaying a sizable belly—has reignited a timeless question: can you reduce belly fat without quitting beer? It’s a query as old as the six-pack itself (and we don’t mean abs).
Let’s unpack the realities based on scientific literature and expert medical advisories.
⸻
The vital picture
Understanding Belly Fat (Visceral Fat)
Belly fat isn’t just a fashion concern; it’s a health one. According to the Mayo Clinic, excessive abdominal fat—especially visceral fat that wraps around internal organs—is linked to an increased risk of:
• Cardiovascular disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• Sleep apnea
• Certain cancers
This type of fat is hormonally active, increasing inflammation and insulin resistance—two major red flags in chronic disease development.
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Beer and Belly Fat: The Link
Beer contributes to belly fat for a few key reasons:
1. Caloric Density: One bottle of beer can contain between 150–250 calories. Multiply that over multiple drinks per week, and it adds up fast.
2. Empty Calories: Beer lacks nutritional value, meaning you’re consuming calories that don’t help with satiety.
3. Hormonal Effects: Alcohol can increase estrogen levels and reduce testosterone, which may impair fat burning and muscle gain.
4. Increased Appetite: Studies show alcohol can spike hunger and reduce inhibition, making you more likely to overeat.
That said, moderation is key—occasional beers aren’t necessarily the villain.
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So… Is There a Tip to Reduce Belly Fat Without Quitting Beer?
Yes—but it’s about trade-offs, not magic.
Here are research-backed strategies to trim the belly while keeping the bottle (within reason):
1. Limit to Light/Lower-Calorie Beer
Switch to beers that have fewer than 100 calories per serving. This small shift can save hundreds of calories per week.
2. Intermittent Fasting
Medical studies (JAMA, 2020) show that intermittent fasting (e.g., 16:8 method) can lead to belly fat loss, even if calories aren’t drastically cut.
3. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
Short bursts of intense exercise (20–30 minutes, 3x/week) are shown to significantly reduce visceral fat—without requiring long workouts.
4. Protein-Rich Diet
Eating more lean proteins (e.g., eggs, beans, fish) helps preserve muscle mass and burn fat more efficiently, offsetting the metabolic hit from alcohol.
5. Track What You Eat and Drink
Apps like MyFitnessPal help you become aware of “liquid calories.” You don’t have to stop drinking—just budget for it.
6. Improve Sleep & Reduce Stress
Chronic stress and poor sleep spike cortisol, which promotes fat storage—especially in the belly.
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Final Word
To the man in the picture—and those like him living large in every sense: you can have your beer and burn the belly too, but only if you’re strategic. Health is about balance, not extremes.
So yes, toast to life—but maybe follow it up with a brisk walk, some grilled chicken, and a few push-ups. Your belly—and your future self—will thank you.
Seoul, South Korea – In a historic decision, South Korea’s Constitutional Court has unanimously voted to remove President Yoon Suk-yeol from office following his controversial declaration of martial law late last year.
Yoon had briefly imposed martial law on the night of December 3, citing concerns that anti-State and North Korean forces had infiltrated the government. However, military and police officials later testified that Yoon had ordered them to detain political opponents and block the National Assembly from voting to revoke his military rule.
The National Assembly voted to impeach Yoon on December 14, but the Constitutional Court’s ruling was required to officially remove him from office. With this ruling, South Korea’s government now has 60 days to hold a new presidential election. In the interim, Acting President Han Duck-soo will assume leadership.
Delivering the verdict, Justice Moon Hyung-bae dismissed Yoon’s justifications for declaring martial law and condemned his actions as a severe breach of constitutional order.
“The defendant mobilized military and police forces to dismantle the authority of constitutional institutions and infringed upon the fundamental rights of the people,” Justice Moon stated. “In doing so, he abandoned his constitutional duty to uphold the Constitution and gravely betrayed the trust of the Korean people.”
The ruling was met with widespread public reaction. Outside the courthouse, thousands of demonstrators, including families who had protested for months, cheered and wept with relief. Meanwhile, Yoon’s supporters, primarily older citizens, reacted with disappointment, with some voicing claims of a “rigged process” and “corruption.”
The impeachment case has been a divisive issue in South Korea, sparking weeks of protests both in favor of and against Yoon. Interest in the trial was exceptionally high, with 96,370 people applying for just 20 public seats available inside the courtroom.
News about a successful impeachment will be read by citizens of other countries like Zimbabwe with keen interest following a recent call by war veteran Blessed Geza for the removal of Emmerson Mnangagwa, in Geza’s Wednesday speech. A top kingmaker and prophet of Mnangagwa’s at the weekend said Geza is giving “all of us a bath.”
The country now looks ahead to the upcoming election, which will determine South Korea’s next leader and set the course for its political future.- Agencies
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has clarified that it has no plans to raid the safe deposit boxes of private businesses and individuals, contrary to reports in a local daily newspaper.
In a statement released on Wednesday, RBZ Governor Dr. John Mushayavanhu reassured the public that the central bank respects property rights.
Dr. Mushayavanhu stated, “We have no intention of swooping on safe deposit boxes,” reaffirming the bank’s commitment to safeguarding private property.
His comments follow concerns raised earlier in February 2025, during the release of the Monetary Policy Statement, where he highlighted the potential abuse of safe deposit boxes and underground banking systems.
He had urged businesses and individuals to take advantage of the “attractive interest rates on savings and time deposits” offered by formal financial institutions.
Plans to revive Zimbabwe’s struggling leather industry are in motion, with the government taking steps to strengthen its systems and revitalise the leather value chain. These plans were outlined during the Parliamentary Question and Answer session this Wednesday.
Minister of Industry and Commerce, Honourable Mangaliso Ndlovu, addressed Parliament, revealing a collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and other key ministries. “I spoke of a collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture among other ministries. I highlighted that we have not done as much as we want in our leather sector. We will be working with rural communities to create a system where leather will be produced,” he said.
He further assured that local companies like Bata are on a recovery path. “Bata is on its recovery path,” Ndlovu stated. The minister also emphasized efforts to expand both the domestic market and international exports, particularly to Zambia. “We are trying to make sure we expand the domestic market, and we are expanding to export to other countries, including Zambia,” he added. He revealed that government departments have been instructed to make local purchases to help boost the leather industry. “Government departments have been directed to make local purchases, which will also help expand the leather industry,” Ndlovu noted.
In addition, the government is keeping pace with technological advancements, as highlighted by the Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Honourable Kazembe Kazembe. Kazembe spoke about the introduction of automated border control systems at key ports of entry, aimed at improving security and reducing smuggling. “We have done a lot in deploying technology at airport and border technology. We have tried to computerise all our systems and the online border management systems, and we now have e-gates without the help of any officer,” Kazembe said.
He also mentioned the successful implementation of e-visas, with systems now in place at major border posts like Victoria Falls and Beitbridge. “We have deployed this at Victoria Falls and Beitbridge. Now e-visas are available, and we have started embarking on this journey,” he concluded.
When top govt prophet Andrew Wutaunashe at the weekend all of a sudden begun praising war veteran Blessed Geza as the man who’s fixing and bathing ‘all of us,’ no one would have thought the state is soon to launch a completion with him (Geza).
Geza on Wed exposed President Mnangagwa crony Kuda Tagwirei over land permit issuances.
ED’s Prophet Wutaunashe Performs U-Turn On Blessed Geza, Praises Him As The Man Fixing And Bathing The Whole Country👇 pic.twitter.com/0kFMaNijpk
Within 48 hours, Government has abruptly halted the issuance of development permits, citing a crackdown on land barons.
Is this about protecting home-seekers — or targeting powerful businessman and alleged land baron-in-chief, Kudakwashe Tagwirei?
The move comes 2 days after whistleblower and anti-corruption crusader Blessed Geza gained traction with his exposés linking Tagwirei to illegal land grabs, fraudulent title schemes, and the weaponisation of urban planning for political patronage. Geza’s revelations — including alleged connections between Tagwirei’s companies and illicit land allocations in Harare, Chitungwiza, and Mazowe — have sparked public outrage and calls for accountability at the highest levels.
Now, government officials, led by National Housing and Social Amenities Minister Soda Zhemu, are positioning themselves as saviours of the urban poor, suspending all new development permits “to curb the menace of land barons.” But observers say the timing is too convenient — and the target too vague.
“They should not go to land barons,” said Zhemu in an interview with state media. “Currently, there is no State land that you can apply for and get granted authority to do some developments. That has been stopped.”
Yet nowhere in the Minister’s statement was Tagwirei mentioned — a glaring omission given his widely reported role in acquiring and parcelling out vast tracts of state land through opaque entities allegedly connected to the Office of the President and Cabinet.
Critics say the government’s campaign is an attempt to deflect mounting pressure and reframe the narrative — turning a citizen-led movement into a state-controlled project. The suspension of permits, they warn, could freeze out smaller developers and housing cooperatives while preserving the interests of politically connected elites already in possession of contested land.
“This is not a clean-up; it’s a cover-up,” said one urban planning analyst, speaking on condition of anonymity. “They’re trying to cut off the head of the grassroots revolt by hijacking the body. Geza’s work is threatening the foundations of elite control over urban land — and now they’re moving to neutralise him by pretending to be the ones cleaning up the mess.”
The government’s sudden pivot also coincides with plans to issue 65,000 title deeds — a move seen as a populist gesture ahead of key by-elections and potential early presidential primaries. Areas mentioned, like Epworth and Chitungwiza, are epicentres of land-related discontent — and key battlegrounds in the war for urban votes.
Meanwhile, Geza remains defiant. In his latest online post, he challenged authorities to “name and shame the real land barons — not just the foot soldiers,” and reiterated his call for a public inquiry into how Tagwirei and his associates acquired state land without parliamentary oversight.
As the battle lines shift, one thing is clear: the land baron crisis is no longer just a housing issue — it’s a political earthquake in the making.
Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube for endorsing the Pomona Waste Management project, despite its association with controversial businessman Dilesh Nguwaya, who is widely seen as a Chigananda—a politically connected tender-preneur rather than a credible entrepreneur:
Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube has once again placed political loyalty above public accountability, offering glowing praise for the GEO Pomona Waste Management project—despite widespread concerns over the integrity of its frontman, Dilesh Nguwaya, a convicted figure many Zimbabweans know more for scandal than business acumen.
Nguwaya, widely regarded as a Chigananda—a tender-preneur thriving on government contracts and opaque deals—led the Minister on a carefully choreographed tour of the Harare waste management site this week. The visit appeared less about oversight and more about endorsing a controversial deal that critics say reeks of crony capitalism.
Following the visit, Ncube hailed the project as “very transparent,” applauding everything from its engineers to its water treatment system. “I almost drank it,” he quipped, ignoring the elephant in the room: Nguwaya’s checkered history, which includes ties to dubious COVID-19 procurement scandals and allegations of fronting for politically connected elites.
That Ncube could describe a project associated with such a figure as “phenomenal” raises serious concerns about the government’s commitment to ethical investment. Transparency is not about glossy tours or well-rehearsed presentations; it’s about public procurement processes that are open, competitive, and accountable—something this deal has never been.
Worse still, the Pomona project was granted “national project status,” a designation that fast-tracks approvals and offers tax breaks—essentially rewarding a shady operator with public privilege, while ordinary entrepreneurs face red tape and exclusion.
This is not the first time Ncube has lent credibility to questionable ventures. But his continued alliance with characters like Nguwaya only reinforces perceptions that the so-called “new dispensation” is little more than a rebranded system of patronage and enrichment for the well-connected.
In October 2018, he promised to change govt policy on respecting property rights.
He gave the below responses to questions at London’s Chatham House institute.
Simba Chikanza: “Would you not agree that your commitment to the rule of law and to property rights is in question sir and I’m quoting here, legal experts from Veritas, who have raised for instance, two issues, the declaration of a military cantonment-area, on which there are mining claims, and the imposition of increased taxes, And electronic money transfers and they say this has raised questions about the government’s respect for property rights, and broadly the commitment to the rule of law.
And honorable Minister Sir, it is not true that the only violent incident post-election is the one August there are numerous incidents of political violence that have continued even into this week and I’ve got a whole database here hereof people who either had their houses demolished, many have even been beaten on the streets we’re talking violence not by civilians; violence by either the military or members of the police force, and Sir, minister, do you not agree that your commitment to the rule of law and to property rights, your commitment to economic recovery is in question said since this is happening in your period?
Minister Mthuli Ncube replied saying, “…Simba on this issue about the commitment to the rule of law, I understand why you are saying it (sic) err, this incident, I don’t know what is true maybe you have better information than me which I suspect by the way, because I’ve only been in the country properly, not for one month but two weeks.”
Simba Chikanza: ” I’ve got full fact proof, checked, I’ve got a whole database that I can show you and the whole house; this is very very serious.
Mthuli Ncube: “I am hearing you but you see precedence is committed to abiding by the rule of law, you have said it on a full program, we are determined to do our best in this regard so but I’m not going to deny what you are saying as you have more information than me and I suspect, some so we are determined to make sure this stops and we abide by the rule of law, and expect property rights. I think what we are trying to do with the land issue as I was explaining and that it’s a simpler way we want to make sure.
As Zimbabweans grapple with deepening poverty, load-shedding, and collapsing services, one has to ask: who really benefits from Mthuli Ncube’s version of investment promotion? Because it’s certainly not the people.
Controversial Deals Endorsed by Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube (2018–2025)
Since his appointment in 2018, Zimbabwe’s Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube has been associated with several high-profile deals and projects that later attracted public criticism and allegations of corruption. These deals — often involving large government contracts or loans — have raised concerns about opaque procurement practices, politically connected beneficiaries, and lack of transparency in the management of public resources. Investigative journalists, civil society groups, and opposition figures have flagged a number of these cases, prompting parliamentary inquiries, lawsuits, or official audits. Below, we present a structured overview of the shady or controversial deals linked to Mthuli Ncube’s tenure, followed by detailed case-by-case descriptions.
Summary of Key Controversial Deals (2018–2025)
Year
Project/Deal
Involved Parties
Controversy
Outcome/Status
2017–19
Command Agriculture Scheme
Govt of Zim; Sakunda Holdings (K. Tagwirei)
~US$3bn unaccounted; no transparency; inflated costs .
Funds not fully accounted; Tagwirei sanctioned by US; Gov’t admitted opacity.
2020
COVID-19 “Drax” Contracts
Drax Int’l (Delish Nguwaya); Min of Health; Min of Finance
US$60m PPE/drugs deal; no PRAZ approval; inflated prices .
Contract cancelled amid scandal; Health Minister fired & arrested; Interpol probe launched.
2019–21
ZUPCO Bus Procurement Deal
Landela Inv. (Tagwirei-linked); Min of Local Gov; Treasury
Buses bought at ~$59k resold to gov’t at ~$213k ; no open tender; info withheld.
Deal exposed by media; Gov’t taken to court for transparency ; no officials held to account.
2022
Mbudzi Interchange Project
Fossil Contracting (Tagwirei-linked); Min of Transport; Treasury
Major road interchange in Harare; contract US$144m (IMF funds) ; contractor tied to president’s ally ; cost seen as inflated (double similar projects).
Project ongoing; Opposition MPs labeled it a “white elephant” and questioned value, but no cancellation.
2022
Pomona Waste-to-Energy Deal
Geogenix BV (M. Mërtiri & D. Nguwaya); Min of Local Gov; Harare City
30-year dumpsite deal ($40/ton fee) forced on city ; no tender; partner linked to President’s family .
Harare council resisted and suspended deal; Government initially insisted it’s “irreversible”; deal under review amid legal battles.
2019
Afreximbank Loan & Collateral
Afreximbank; Min of Finance; Reserve Bank (RBZ)
Secret $500m loan for new currency backed by platinum ; bypassed Parliament approval (unconstitutional) .
High Court ordered Ncube to disclose loan details ; Gov’t transparency under scrutiny; loan remained in place.
2020–23
Kuvimba Mining House Assets
Kuvimba (state fund); Tagwirei’s Sotic & Landela; Ministry of Finance
Transfer of mines (gold, platinum, nickel) from Tagwirei’s network to “state-owned” Kuvimba; ownership opaque; alleged front to benefit Tagwirei .
Ncube claimed state majority ownership; Investigations found Tagwirei links ; In 2023, gov’t borrowed $1.9bn to buy out Tagwirei’s stake amid controversy.
2007–08†/ 2020
RBZ Farm Mechanization Loans
RBZ; Ministry of Finance; Politically connected farmers
~US$1.4bn in equipment loans (2007–08) to chefs never repaid; Ncube’s Treasury assumed the debt quietly , saddling taxpayers.
Scandal erupted when beneficiaries list leaked (2020); Public outrage, but debt already absorbed; no repayment by beneficiaries.
†Note: The Farm Mechanization Scheme was implemented before Ncube’s tenure, but the debt write-off occurred under his watch (revealed in 2020), effectively endorsing the opaque bailout of politically connected beneficiaries.
Command Agriculture Input Scheme (2017–2019)
One of the largest financial controversies in recent years involves the Command Agriculture programme – a government-funded farming input scheme that operated as a public-private partnership. Although launched before Ncube’s tenure, the scheme’s financing continued under him and was championed by the new administration in 2018. In this arrangement, the government contracted Sakunda Holdings, owned by business tycoon Kudakwashe Tagwirei (a close ally of President Mnangagwa), to supply farmers with inputs like seed and fertilizer, with payment through Treasury Bills. The Office of the President and Cabinet oversaw the project, bypassing standard ministry controls .
By 2019, Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) – led by opposition MP Tendai Biti – uncovered that about US$3 billion disbursed for Command Agriculture in 2017–2018 could not be accounted for, raising suspicions of massive abuse . An Auditor-General’s report similarly found serious accounting irregularities. It later emerged that Sakunda had received over $1 billion in Treasury Bills plus $230 million in cash from 2016–2019 to run this programme . Yet, basic records of how these funds were used were missing, and officials in the Agriculture Ministry admitted they “had no clue” how the money was spent . This lack of transparency led observers to label Command Agriculture as “Zimbabwe’s own version of state capture,” benefitting a well-connected cartel.
Finance Minister Ncube’s Role: As Finance Minister, Ncube was responsible for funding this scheme and later acknowledged the problems. By late 2019, facing mounting evidence of mismanagement, Ncube admitted that the Command Agriculture programme lacked transparency and proper oversight . This public admission was significant – essentially confirming critics’ claims that the arrangement was opaque. Despite promises to reform the system, the damage had been done: taxpayers were left shouldering the cost of the missing billions. Meanwhile, Tagwirei’s company reaped huge rewards; in fact, Tagwirei was sanctioned by the U.S. in 2020 for allegedly using his political connections to siphon public funds, specifically citing his enrichment from Command Agriculture . No Zimbabwean officials were prosecuted for the missing funds, but the scandal heightened public mistrust. The Command Agriculture saga stands out as a case where Ncube’s Treasury poured funds into a politically connected venture with minimal accountability, only for the Minister to concede after the fact that it had become a conduit for corruption.
COVID-19 Medical Procurement (“Draxgate”, 2020)
In 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Zimbabwe’s government hastily entered a series of contracts for medical supplies that soon turned into a major corruption scandal, locally dubbed “Draxgate.” The Ministry of Finance (headed by Ncube) and Ministry of Health approved deals worth US$60 million with a company called Drax International (also known as Drax Consult SAGL) and a related firm Jaji Investments for procurement of COVID-19 test kits, drugs, and personal protective equipment (PPE) . These companies were barely established (one was 2 weeks old) and notably not registered with Zimbabwe’s Procurement Authority, a legal requirement for government suppliers . Drax was fronted by Delish Nguwaya, a businessman with a criminal record and known associate of President Mnangagwa’s sons, raising immediate red flags about the deal’s integrity .
Nature of the Controversy: Investigative journalists revealed that the Drax contracts involved grossly inflated prices and procedural violations. For example, Drax billed nearly $1 million for a consignment of PPE that included N95 masks at $28 each and coveralls at $90 each – at least $500,000 above prevailing market prices . Payments were routed to obscure accounts abroad (in Mauritius and elsewhere), suggesting an attempt to launder funds. It later emerged that government officials bypassed competitive tender processes to award these contracts, and that Drax had leveraged its political connections – even donating COVID test kits at State House in a publicity stunt with Ncube and the President present – to win the deals .
When details of the scandal broke, there was swift backlash. Under pressure from the public and watchdog groups, Ncube’s Finance Ministry initially suspended payments to Drax in late April 2020, calling the contracts into question. However, in an unusual reversal, Treasury (via Permanent Secretary George Guvamatanga) “exceptionally authorised” one Drax shipment in May 2020, citing urgent need , even as evidence of overpricing mounted. This fueled speculation of high-level complicity. The fallout was dramatic: Zimbabwe’s Health Minister Obadiah Moyo was arrested and charged with criminal abuse of office for his role in the Drax procurement, and was eventually fired by President Mnangagwa in July 2020 amid public outcry . International law enforcement got involved as well – Interpol opened a money laundering investigation after flags were raised in Europe over a suspicious $2 million payment from Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Finance to a newly formed Hungarian company (part of the Drax saga) .
Public and Political Reactions: The Drax scandal became a byword for COVID-19 corruption in Zimbabwe. Media exposés described it as an “egregious” example of how official corruption worsens the economic crisis . Opposition figures and civil society decried the siphoning of pandemic funds. For Mthuli Ncube, this deal was a major embarrassment – it happened on his watch and with his Ministry’s approval, undermining his public pledges of reform. In response, Ncube distanced himself and emphasized new stricter procurement oversight for future aid funds. Ultimately, the Drax contracts were cancelled and payments partly recovered. But the saga left a stain on Ncube’s record, illustrating how politically connected actors exploited an emergency for gain, with the tacit endorsement or negligence of the Finance Ministry.
ZUPCO Buses Procurement Deal (2019–2021)
Another controversial deal under Ncube’s tenure involved the acquisition of buses for the state-owned public transport company, ZUPCO (Zimbabwe United Passenger Company). Facing a transport shortage, the government in 2019 began importing hundreds of buses from China and Belarus. Rather than procure these buses directly, the government engaged a private intermediary – Landela Investments, a company linked to Kudakwashe Tagwirei (already prominently involved in multiple government schemes). Mthuli Ncube publicly supported efforts to revive ZUPCO’s fleet, often touting the arrival of new buses as a Second Republic achievement. However, it soon emerged that the procurement process was highly questionable and lacked transparency.
Involved Parties and Arrangement: Landela Investments (part of Tagwirei’s group) entered a hire-purchase agreement with the government’s Central Mechanical and Engineering Department (CMED) to supply buses to ZUPCO . In practice, Landela acted as the middleman importing buses from China, then selling or leasing them to the government. Investigative reports in 2020–2021 uncovered startling figures: Landela allegedly bought the buses for about US$58,900 each, and then sold them to the government for about US$212,000 each . This implied an almost four-fold markup, suggesting that tens of millions of dollars in public funds were being siphoned to the middleman. Furthermore, the deal never went to open tender, and key details – such as the total number of buses, prices, and contract terms – were kept secret, despite being public procurement.
By early 2021, suspicions of wrongdoing led The Zimbabwe Independent newspaper and Transparency International Zimbabwe (TIZ) to take an unprecedented step: they filed a lawsuit to compel Minister Ncube and others to release documents and information on the ZUPCO bus deal . The court filings cited the government’s refusal to honor requests for information and highlighted the public interest concerns. Ncube, along with Local Government Minister July Moyo and Transport officials, were listed as respondents . The very fact that media and an anti-corruption NGO had to go to court underscored the opacity of the deal. In their affidavit, the applicants pointed to “suspicious circumstances” and a “murky transaction” involving Landela – a company already “linked to corruption-accused businessman” Tagwirei .
Nature of the Controversy: The controversies surrounding this deal include possible price gouging, preferential treatment of a politically connected firm, and breach of procurement laws. Parliamentarians questioned why an intermediary was necessary at all if it only served to inflate costs to the taxpayer. There were also equity concerns: some of the buses were paid for by a state fuel levy, effectively making citizens fund an overpriced scheme that enriched a private player . The deal fed into the narrative of “cartels” dominating Zimbabwe’s economy, as Landela/Tagwirei appeared to enjoy monopolistic access to government contracts.
Outcome and Reactions: The ZUPCO bus procurement scandal became a hot topic in government circles. While Ncube defended the overall programme of fleet expansion as vital for public transport, he provided little explanation for the pricing discrepancies. Under pressure, officials eventually acknowledged the hire-purchase arrangement but claimed the prices included other costs like spare parts — explanations that critics found unconvincing. The High Court case seeking transparency was a bold move; though the outcome of the lawsuit has not been widely reported, it succeeded in drawing greater attention to the issue. No official was penalized, and additional batches of buses continued to be delivered. However, the scandal did taint the bus modernisation drive: an opposition MP described the ZUPCO saga as “the cost of corruption,” noting how a well-intended public project was undermined by rent-seeking and secrecy . For Ncube, the bus deal illustrated the risks of partnering with insider companies — a pattern that recurs in several deals under his watch.
Mbudzi Interchange Road Project (2022)
In 2022, the government launched an ambitious infrastructure project to build the Mbudzi Traffic Interchange in Harare – a massive flyover and cloverleaf junction designed to ease congestion at a busy intersection. Minister Mthuli Ncube earmarked funding for this project as part of a broader infrastructure push, including allocating a portion of Zimbabwe’s IMF Special Drawing Rights (SDR) windfall to it . However, the Mbudzi Interchange quickly became entangled in controversy over its cost and the procurement process, amid allegations that politically connected contractors were unduly benefitting.
Contract Award and Cost Controversy: The construction contract for Mbudzi was awarded to Fossil Contracting, a company that local media identified as being linked to Kudakwashe Tagwirei – the same well-connected mogul involved in Command Agriculture and ZUPCO deals . This raised eyebrows given Tagwirei’s closeness to power. More striking was the project’s price tag. Government documents showed an allocation of US$144 million for the Mbudzi Interchange, funded over several years (including through the SDR funds) . Engineers and economists immediately questioned this figure as excessive. For comparison, a similarly complex highway interchange in South Africa (the huge Spaghetti Junction upgrade in Durban) had cost roughly US$77 million, about half the Mbudzi budget . Yet the Mbudzi project is smaller in scale. This discrepancy led to suspicions that the cost was inflated – possibly due to corruption or kickbacks built into the contract.
Lack of Transparency: Details on how Fossil Contracting was chosen remain scant. Critics allege that the tender process was not truly competitive, possibly a directed award to an ally’s firm. The Ministry of Transport defended the cost by citing currency volatility and the need to relocate utilities and hundreds of households, but skepticism remained. Opposition member of Parliament Temba Mliswa was particularly vocal, calling the interchange deal a potential “white elephant” and demanding a breakdown of the $144m budget. Civil society groups pointed out that Zimbabwe’s procurement oversight, the Procurement Regulatory Authority, had not publicly vetted this project, feeding perceptions of a “mega-deal” rife with insider influence.
Public and Political Reactions: Within Parliament, questions were raised about whether value for money was being achieved. The government, including Ncube, maintained that investing in infrastructure was necessary and that the interchange would be a “game changer.” Yet the controversy lingered in the media with headlines about the project’s ballooning costs and Tagwirei’s name surfacing once again. The issue played into the broader narrative of corruption in big public works. As one observer noted, “there is a sense of obscurity and lack of transparency” in such projects, even as they are touted as development milestones .
Despite the criticism, the Mbudzi Interchange construction moved forward and is ongoing. There has been no official investigation or adjustment of the contract. The interchange is slated for completion to much fanfare, but the controversy underscored how even flagship infrastructure projects under Ncube’s economic plans have been plagued by allegations of cost inflation and crony capitalism. In this case, the intertwined interests of the state and Tagwirei’s business empire once again drew scrutiny, reflecting a pattern seen across multiple deals.
Pomona Waste-to-Energy Project (2022)
In 2022, the government, through the Ministry of Local Government and endorsed by the Finance Ministry, pushed a waste-to-energy project for Harare’s main landfill (Pomona dumpsite) that became one of the year’s most contentious deals. The project was a 30-year Build-Own-Operate-Transfer contract with a shadowy Netherlands-registered company called Geogenix B.V., aimed at generating electricity from solid waste. However, the terms of the deal and the manner of its approval led to immediate backlash from Harare city officials, residents, and opposition leaders, who decried it as a corrupt, one-sided arrangement that could bankrupt the city.
Key Details of the Deal: Geogenix B.V., owned by Albanian businessman Mirel Mërtiri (notorious in Europe for corrupt waste projects), was effectively hand-picked by Zimbabwe’s central government to manage the Pomona dumpsite . The company’s local frontman was Delish (Danish) Nguwaya – the same politically connected figure in the Drax COVID scandal – who is closely associated with the Mnangagwa family . The agreement did not go through a normal tender or competitive bidding. Instead, the Cabinet designated it a “national project,” allowing it to bypass standard procurement and even certain environmental approvals . Under the contract, Harare City Council (which is opposition-led) would be obligated to deliver at least 550 tonnes of garbage per day to Geogenix’s plant and pay US$40 per tonne as a tipping fee . This meant the city would pay the contractor approximately US$22,000 per day in 2022 for its own garbage, with the fee increasing to $26,000+ per day in subsequent years as minimum tonnages rose . Over a year, the fees were about US$8 million – a huge sum for a city already struggling to provide basic services .
Nature of the Controversy: The Pomona deal was criticized on multiple grounds. First, the idea of the city paying a private firm for each ton of waste (essentially buying back its own garbage) struck many as absurd and fundamentally unfair. Normally, a waste-to-energy operator would pay or charge a minimal fee for feedstock, not demand a guaranteed profit in hard currency regardless of output. Harare’s mayor at the time, Jacob Mafume, blasted the arrangement as essentially the city acting as a “landlord paying rent to a tenant” – a legally and financially nonsensical deal . Second, the contract was approved under questionable circumstances: it was rushed through by a faction of city councillors aligned with the ruling party after elected opposition councillors were temporarily disqualified by a court ruling . This raised suspicions that due process was subverted to push the deal through. Third, the involvement of Delish Nguwaya – already infamous from Drax – and the open secret that President Mnangagwa’s sons had interest in the project (they reportedly traveled with Nguwaya to negotiate with Geogenix’s owner in Albania) gave the project the aura of personal profiteering by the politically powerful .
Civil society and residents’ associations were quick to oppose the project. The Harare Residents Trust noted that residents were not consulted at all, and that the deal “will result in the cash-strapped local authority being plundered” . Environmental experts also pointed out that no proper feasibility study or environmental impact assessment was presented – the council was simply directed by central government to accept Geogenix BV’s proposal . The contract’s financial burden threatened to severely curtail the city’s budget for other services, essentially binding Harare to a debt trap for decades .
Political Fallout and Outcome: When news of the Pomona contract details became public, it set off a political tug-of-war. The new opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) councillors, upon regaining control of Harare, suspended payments to Geogenix and sought to cancel the deal in June 2022, calling it grossly prejudicial to the city . The Minister of Local Government, July Moyo, however, insisted the deal was government-approved and “irreversible,” and at one point even tried to compel the City of Harare to budget millions to pay Geogenix, reportedly considering using devolution funds (central government transfers) to cover the fees if the council refused . This essentially pitted Ncube’s Treasury (which allocates devolution funds) and the Local Government Ministry against the City Council and residents. The issue reached Parliament as well: MPs grilled Minister Moyo about why such a “corrupt agreement” was forced on the city and why Parliament was not consulted . Opposition MP Tendai Biti went as far as asking why the government was paying $22k daily even after the council had terminated the contract .
Under intense pressure, by late 2022 the central government appeared to climb down: reports indicated the government stopped billing the City of Harare for the Pomona project, effectively putting the deal on hold . Geogenix’s operations were stalled and the dispute headed to the courts, with an ongoing lawsuit by MP Allan Markham seeking to nullify the contract on legal grounds . As of 2023, the Pomona waste-to-energy deal remains unresolved – a potent example of how an opaque deal with a politically connected middleman (Nguwaya) and a foreign company was nearly pushed through at great public cost, only to be checked by local democratic resistance and public outcry. For Minister Ncube, who would have overseen any payments, the Pomona saga highlighted the tensions between centralised deals and local accountability, and further cemented perceptions that under his watch, large projects too often serve elite interests at the expense of citizens.
Secret Loans and Collateral Deals (2019–2020)
Mthuli Ncube’s tenure has also been marked by controversial borrowing practices that drew criticism for their secrecy and for mortgaging national assets. Notably, in 2019 the Ministry of Finance secured a US$500 million loan from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) under murky terms. The loan was ostensibly obtained to stabilize Zimbabwe’s volatile currency market (during the re-introduction of the Zimbabwean dollar), but it was not transparently disclosed to Parliament or the public as required by law .
Details and Controversy: Leaked information later revealed that Zimbabwe had pledged future platinum production as collateral for this Afreximbank loan . This means a portion of the country’s precious mineral export proceeds was committed to the lender. Such a guarantee of national resources should legally be approved by Parliament (per Section 300 of the Constitution), but Ncube’s ministry did not seek prior parliamentary approval . The loan only came to light when Ncube casually mentioned funds from “international banks” on social media, and Bloomberg News reported the platinum backing . This lack of transparency sparked alarm among lawmakers and civil society. It appeared to be a deliberate strategy to avoid scrutiny, as the government around that time was even proposing constitutional changes to remove the legislature’s oversight on foreign loans .
Opposition MP Allan Markham and the Community Water Alliance Trust took the matter to court in 2020, suing Ncube, the Reserve Bank, and Afreximbank for full disclosure . The lawsuit argued that by incurring such loans in secret, the executive was violating the Constitution and saddling citizens with debts without their knowledge or consent . In his response, Finance Secretary George Guvamatanga admitted that the $500m loan should have had Parliament’s approval, effectively conceding the breach, but he opposed nullifying the loan on grounds that it would breach contract obligations . This stance – acknowledge the illegality but keep the money anyway – did not sit well with transparency advocates.
Outcome: In a landmark judgment in December 2020, the High Court ruled in favor of the citizens on the transparency issue: Justice Happias Zhou ordered Minister Ncube to publish details of all loans and guarantees the government had entered into between January 2019 and December 2020 . Specifically, the Ministry of Finance was compelled to gazette the full Afreximbank loan agreement terms by January 2021 . This was a major victory for accountability. (The court, however, stopped short of cancelling the $500m facility, so the debt remained binding .)
Following the ruling, Ncube did release some information about various loans, although critics say many details (like collateral clauses) remained scant. The incident underscored “debt secrecy” as a form of bad governance . It also raised concern that Zimbabwe was mortgaging its future mineral wealth for short-term relief, potentially at unfavorable terms. Indeed, beyond this case, there have been other reports of opaque deals with Afreximbank and other lenders during Ncube’s term – for instance, additional facilities to finance fuel and grain imports, whose terms were never fully revealed. Each time, Parliament had to fight to get information.
For Mthuli Ncube, who initially defended the need for confidentiality to maintain creditor trust, the episode was a reputational blow. It painted his reformist image with a brush of old-fashioned non-transparency. Zimbabweans were reminded that even under new leadership, the Ministry of Finance was willing to trade national assets behind closed doors. The pushback from civil society and subsequent court-enforced transparency was a rare check on executive overreach in financial dealings. It set a precedent that even loans “endorsed” by Ncube must be exposed to public light – a principle that watchdogs continue to press, as government debt (now over $20 billion) grows partly due to such hidden arrangements.
Kuvimba Mining House and Tagwirei Asset Transfers (2020–2023)
In late 2020, Mthuli Ncube helped unveil a new entity called Kuvimba Mining House, presented as a vehicle for reviving Zimbabwe’s mining sector. Kuvimba was said to be majority-owned by the government (through a sovereign wealth fund and other state agencies) and holding a portfolio of lucrative mining assets – gold mines, nickel mines, and a stake in a platinum project. Ncube went so far as to tout Kuvimba as the answer to funding compensation for former white farmers, after Kuvimba declared a dividend of $5.2 million to the government in 2021 . However, almost immediately, questions arose about who really owned Kuvimba’s assets, and whether this was in fact a maneuver to launder or legitimize assets of Kudakwashe Tagwirei, who had recently come under US sanctions.
Involved Parties and Background: Many of the mines under Kuvimba had a murky ownership trail. Investigative reporting (Bloomberg, Financial Times, OCCRP, The Sentry) later revealed that Kuvimba’s assets were acquired from or through a Mauritius-based firm called Sotic International (and its Zimbabwean arm Landela), which was effectively Tagwirei’s investment vehicle . In early 2020, anticipating US sanctions, Tagwirei’s associates devised a “contingency plan” to restructure his holdings. This involved shifting mining assets into nominally state-controlled entities to obscure his involvement . Indeed, confidential communications obtained by reporters showed Tagwirei’s team moving shares of gold mines (Freda Rebecca), a nickel miner (Bindura Nickel Corp), and the Great Dyke Investments platinum venture into a new holding company eventually folded into Kuvimba . Essentially, Tagwirei’s private empire was partly rebaptized as ‘Kuvimba’.
The government’s line (mostly from Ncube) was that Kuvimba was 65% owned by the state and 35% by “private investors” whose identity was not disclosed . Skeptics pointed out the conflict: the government was claiming to own assets that months before were known to belong to Tagwirei’s companies. Ncube denied Tagwirei had any stake in Kuvimba, but refused to clearly identify all shareholders, citing a confidentiality agreement . This lack of clarity only fueled speculation that politically exposed persons were hiding behind Kuvimba’s corporate veil.
Nature of Controversy: The controversy has several layers. First, the origins of Kuvimba’s asset base appear to trace back to potentially corrupt or illicit transactions. For instance, one key asset, the Great Dyke Investments (GDI) platinum project, involved Tagwirei acquiring shares from former military-linked owners using millions of dollars he obtained by cashing out government TBills under questionable circumstances . If those assets end up in a “government” company without accounting for how they were paid for, it suggests the state is complicit in sanitizing dubious deals. Second, there’s the issue of the state possibly over-paying or assuming unknown liabilities to take over these mines. In 2023, it emerged that Zimbabwe’s new sovereign wealth vehicle (renamed Mutapa Investment Fund) borrowed a staggering US$1.9 billion to buy out the 35% private stake in Kuvimba – widely believed to essentially be Tagwirei’s remaining interest . Observers noted this valuation seemed inflated (implying Kuvimba as a whole being worth over $4.5 billion, which is hard to justify), raising the possibility of a massive payout to Tagwirei’s “mystery” partners for assets the government partly already controlled . Such a transaction would enrich those private holders (whoever they are) while the debt burden falls on the public.
Investigative voices have called this saga “state capture” in disguise – effectively the government entering joint ventures with a sanctioned tycoon and then buying him out with public funds. The Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) and The Sentry published evidence showing extensive connections between Tagwirei and Kuvimba, despite official denials . In one report, an insider bluntly stated that if Kuvimba acquired entities through Tagwirei’s shell companies, “it obtained them fraudulently and corruptly.” . This implies that the foundation of Kuvimba is tainted by the very corruption the government claims to be distancing itself from.
Outcome: As of 2023, the government asserts that Kuvimba (now under Mutapa Fund) is fully state-owned, after allegedly buying out private shareholders. This was intended to “erase all links with Kuda Tagwirei,” according to Africa Intelligence reporting . However, this outcome itself is controversial because of the secretive $1.9bn loan involved and questions on whether it was an arm’s-length transaction. Zimbabwe’s debt surged as a result . There has been no public audit of Kuvimba’s formation; Parliament was largely sidelined. The opposition and some economists have demanded an investigation, fearing that public money was used to bail out or handsomely reward politically connected insiders under the guise of nationalizing assets .
For Minister Ncube, the Kuvimba episode is a double-edged sword. On one hand, he can claim credit for innovative attempts to leverage mining for public benefit (Kuvimba did pay some dividends used for compensation programs). On the other hand, the opacity and strong whiff of nepotism/cronyism around Kuvimba’s ownership undermine the credibility of those efforts. It exemplifies a pattern where deals are struck with sanctioned or dubious entities with minimal disclosure, then later “regularized” in convoluted ways — leaving citizens unsure if the state is fighting corruption or enabling it. The full truth of Kuvimba’s formation may eventually come out, but meanwhile it stands as a controversial legacy of Ncube’s approach to public-private partnerships in mining.
RBZ Farm Mechanization Loan Write-Off (2020)
An additional controversy linked to Ncube’s tenure, though rooted in an earlier period, is the handling of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) Farm Mechanization Scheme debt. Between 2007 and 2008, the RBZ (under then-Governor Gideon Gono) gave out agricultural equipment like tractors and combine harvesters to politically connected individuals – mostly top officials and allies of the ruling party – under a loan scheme. These beneficiaries were supposed to repay the value of the equipment, but most never did, effectively receiving the assets for free. The issue stayed relatively quiet for years until mid-2020, when an opposition ex-MP published a list of beneficiaries (the “Gono List”), sparking public outrage over this opaque subsidy to the elite.
In July 2020, Finance Minister Ncube disclosed that the government had absorbed this RBZ debt as part of legacy obligations – meaning the outstanding loans (about US$1.4 billion) were put on the public ledger for taxpayers to foot . This revelation was startling: it confirmed that those well-connected farmers and officials who got equipment over a decade ago would never be made to pay, and instead the burden was passed to the ordinary citizen. Ncube’s statement, buried in budget documents, effectively endorsed the quiet write-off of loans to dozens of powerful individuals (including ministers, ex-Vice Presidents, judges, and relatives of top politicians).
Nature of the Controversy: The controversy centers on accountability and fairness. The Farm Mechanization Programme was essentially a huge freebie for the ruling class, done without parliamentary approval and kept off the books until Ncube’s move brought it to light. By legitimizing the debt assumption, Ncube was seen as condoning past corruption and patronage. Civil society groups and media commentators sharply criticized this outcome. They pointed out that while government often speaks of austerity and public sacrifice, it had quietly socialized a $1+ billion debt on behalf of a few hundred individuals who simply kept expensive farm equipment without paying a cent . Many called for those beneficiaries (often derogatorily termed “loan cheaters”) to be named and shamed – which the leaked list did – and to repay the value or face taxes on the windfall.
Ncube, however, defended the move as part of cleaning up RBZ’s balance sheet and moving forward. There was no serious effort under his ministry to recover the funds; instead, he argued that it was a legacy matter best put to rest. This stance was unpopular. The Zimbabwe Coalition on Debt and Development (ZIMCODD) and other watchdogs demanded an explanation for why taxpayers were “forced to pay huge amounts to settle illegally acquired debts” for the rich and connected . The episode fueled public anger on social media, with the hashtag #PayBackTheMoney trending as Zimbabweans learned that ministers, generals, and even former First Lady Grace Mugabe had gotten free farm equipment at their expense.
Outcome: Politically, the Farm Mechanization debt scandal further eroded trust in the government’s commitment to equality before the law. No beneficiary was ever compelled to reimburse the state. Instead, by writing off the loans, the government arguably normalized the impunity with which powerful figures had treated public funds. Some opposition politicians have vowed that a future administration will publish all names and pursue repayment, but under Ncube’s management of the Treasury, the matter was considered closed financially. In an editorial, one newspaper lamented that “the taxpayer is already footing the US$1.4 billion debt for the farm mechanisation programme which benefited mostly Zanu PF politicians, their families and acolytes.” This summary reflected public sentiment: that Zimbabwe’s citizens were punished with debt for the chefs’ benefit, and that Ncube’s Treasury had rubber-stamped it.
In summary, while not a “deal” in the traditional sense of a new project, the Farm Mechanization saga is instructive as a controversial decision under Ncube’s tenure that favored a connected few. It highlights how historic corruption was effectively excused and paid off using public resources, contributing to the narrative that under Mthuli Ncube’s stewardship, deals and decisions often protected political elites from accountability, even as he preached fiscal discipline to the nation.
From agricultural subsidies and public transport purchases to infrastructure contracts, waste management projects, secret loans, and mining takeovers, Mthuli Ncube’s term as Finance Minister has been replete with deals that courted controversy. Common threads run through these cases: lack of transparency, involvement of politically connected businessmen, disregard for standard procedures, and outcomes that privilege a few at the expense of the many. Each deal sparked public outcry – whether through parliamentary committees, investigative journalists, or civil society activism – indicating a persistent demand for accountability in Zimbabwe’s public finance management.
Ncube has often balanced a technocratic reformer’s rhetoric with the political realities of an administration riddled with patronage. In practice, this meant that even as he introduced some economic changes, he also presided over or approved arrangements that have been likened to “looting schemes” or described as corruption-plagued . The public and political reactions to these deals have ranged from protests and legal challenges to resignations and firings (as seen in the Drax case), but systemic change remains elusive.
In the end, the record from 2018 to date shows that many deals endorsed by Minister Ncube did not live up to principles of good governance. They have instead reinforced calls by observers that Zimbabwe needs stronger institutions to prevent abuse: from more robust procurement oversight and parliamentary control of borrowing, to protections for whistleblowers and independent investigations. As Zimbabwe moves forward, the legacy of these controversial deals serves as a cautionary tale — and a rallying point for those urging genuine transparency and accountability in how national projects and funds are managed.
Sources:
Xolisani Ncube, The Standard (Zimbabwe) – Mnangagwa’s cronies pocket millions from controversial input scheme
The Sentry – Fronts, Fakes, and Façades (investigative report on Tagwirei’s network)
Mduduzi Mathuthu, ZimLive – How Zimbabwe paid 2-week old company US$2m, sparking Interpol probe
Lindie Whiz, ZimLive – Tagwirei’s Zupco bus deal in sharp focus as newspaper goes to court
The Africa Report – Zimbabwe: Can Mnangagwa use corruption-plagued projects as electoral leverage?
Harriet Chikandiwa, NewsDay – MPs grill minister over Pomona deal
Frank Chikowore, FairPlanet – The foul waste-to-energy deal that could bankrupt Zimbabwe’s capital
The Zimbabwean – High Court ruling compels Ncube to disclose all loans
OCCRP – As U.S. Sanctions Loomed, a Tycoon ‘Mopped Up’ Zimbabwe’s … (investigation into Tagwirei/Kuvimba)
NewsDay (via Zimbabwe Situation) – Editorial on farm mechanisation debt
By Munacho Gwamanda-Former Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) Director-General Isaac Moyo, who was abruptly dismissed last year, was reportedly ousted due to his allegiance to disgruntled war veterans and army generals backing Vice President Constantino Chiwenga’s bid for the presidency, Zanu PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa has suggested.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa dismissed Moyo without notice in December last year, along with Fulton Mangwanya, former head of the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority.
Around the same time, Mnangagwa also retired Police Commissioner-General Godwin Matanga, replacing him with his deputy, Stephen Mutamba.
Mutsvangwa stated that these demotions were part of a calculated intelligence strategy to weaken Chiwenga and a faction of war veterans resisting Mnangagwa’s efforts to extend his rule beyond 2028.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Mutsvangwa suggested that Mnangagwa’s systematic replacement of top security officials was intended to preempt a potential coup.
“These changes ensure that security institutions remain professional and committed to constitutional order,” Mutsvangwa said, hinting at deep-rooted factional battles within the ruling party.
Last week, Mnangagwa also demoted Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) Commander General Anselem Sanyatwe.
Mutsvangwa openly ridiculed the demotions, implying that Sanyatwe and other high-ranking security figures were purged for aligning with war veterans led by Blessed “Bombshell” Geza, a vocal critic of Mnangagwa who has been advocating for his removal.
Chiwenga, who played a crucial role in Mnangagwa’s rise to power, has seen his influence gradually eroded through strategic purges of his military allies.
Sanyatwe’s removal is particularly significant.
A close associate of Chiwenga, he was reassigned to a relatively low-profile role as Minister of Sports, replacing International Olympic Committee president-elect Kirsty Coventry.
His demotion underscores Mnangagwa’s broader strategy to diminish Chiwenga’s influence within the military and ensure that key positions are occupied by loyalists.
Mnangagwa’s abrupt reshuffling of Zimbabwe’s security leadership came amid escalating tensions within Zanu PF and growing fears of internal dissent ahead of the successfully planned and executed March 31 protests by disgruntled war veterans.
The veterans, led by Geza, have been vocal about corruption and economic mismanagement within the ruling party.
Mutsvangwa dismissed the dissenters as “power-hungry opportunists,” asserting that the new security leadership had “proven its loyalty to the President and the Constitution.”
However, analysts view the shake-up as a preemptive strike against potential coup attempts and a deliberate effort to consolidate Mnangagwa’s grip on power ahead of the 2028 elections.
Speculation is rife that Mnangagwa may seek a controversial third term, a move that would further deepen factional divisions within Zanu PF.
Chiwenga’s faction perceives Mnangagwa’s security reforms as an attempt to marginalize military power in favor of civilian control, effectively sidelining those who helped him ascend to the presidency in 2017.
By A Correspondent | In a move that has sent fresh shockwaves through Zimbabwe’s political landscape, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has fired another cabinet minister, even as his own position hangs in the balance amid growing calls for his removal from office.
According to an official press statement released today by the Office of the President and Cabinet, Mnangagwa has removed Sthembiso Gile Gladys Nyoni from her post as Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, with immediate effect. The decision was made in terms of section 340(1)(f), read together with section 108(1)(a) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe.
Sithembiso Nyoni
The announcement was signed by Dr. M. Rushwaya, Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, and is dated April 3, 2025.
No official reason was given for Nyoni’s dismissal, but the move comes at a time when Mnangagwa himself is under intense political scrutiny. With factions within ZANU-PF reportedly mobilizing against him and growing public unrest over economic hardship and corruption scandals, speculation is rife that this firing may signal internal purges or attempts to reassert authority.
Nyoni, a veteran of Zimbabwean politics, previously served in various ministerial roles and was seen as a stabilizing figure within the cabinet. Her abrupt removal is likely to deepen uncertainty within the ruling elite and stir further intrigue about the president’s grip on power.
This marks yet another high-profile exit from Mnangagwa’s cabinet in recent months, raising questions about the coherence and stability of his administration as pressure mounts both from within the ruling party and from a restive population demanding reform.
Political analysts suggest the president may be attempting to consolidate power by removing ministers perceived to be disloyal or aligned with rival factions. However, with rumors of an impending vote of no confidence gaining traction, Mnangagwa’s political maneuvering may come too late to salvage his presidency.
This is a developing story. More details to follow.
By A Correspondent| Eight employees linked to Robert Mugabe International Airport, including two staff members from Zimbabwe’s National Handling Services (NHS), appeared in court this week over allegations of orchestrating the illegal transit of 23 Ethiopian nationals through Harare to Eswatini.
The accused—Gloria Chikukwa (27) and Ashley Zhaimu (27) of NHS, alongside immigration officers Vincent Shoshore (45)Gondoza Sunday (39), Terrence Mangwende (43),Innocent Tawanda Hamandishe (54), and security officials *Elliot Nhapi and Moses Tawanda Mutambai (29)—were remanded in custody by Harare magistrate Marewanazvo Gofa pending a bail hearing Thursday.
The National Handling Services (NHS), a key ground operations company at Zimbabwe’s major airports, faced scrutiny after its employees allegedly abused their positions to facilitate the smuggling scheme.
According to prosecutors, Chikukwa and Zhaimu—both NHS workers—reportedly escorted the Ethiopians through the airport’s restricted VIP route and concealed them overnight in the Vakacha Lounge, a premium facility reserved for dignitaries.
The Department of Immigration Control, led by Regional Immigration Officer Chakawuya Leslie, detailed how the group manipulated airport protocols.
“The accused wedged doors open with paper to bypass security checks, enabling unauthorised movement,” the court heard.
The operation unfolded over two days in March 2025. On March 15, five Ethiopians arrived on Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET 873 and were hidden by the accused. The following day, 19 more Ethiopians arrived on two additional flights (ET 873 and ET 34). Prosecutors allege NHS staff and immigration officials collaborated to falsify manifests, listing the Ethiopians as Russians, Turks, Indians, and Malawiansto evade detection.
By evening, all 23 individuals boarded Eswatini Airlines Flight RN401 to Manzini. The scheme unraveled when Eswatini authorities discovered the passengers lacked valid transit visas. Subsequent investigations exposed the falsified documents and implicated the Zimbabwean officials.
The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has announced the launch of an exciting design competition called ‘Warrior Pride’, inviting designers to submit their creative concepts for the national football team’s jerseys and related kit merchandise.
ZIFA revealed that the winning designer will be awarded a cash prize of $3,000, along with a fully sponsored trip to Morocco to attend the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 tournament. The competition aims to engage local talent in creating a fresh and inspiring look for the national team, showcasing the spirit of Zimbabwean football on the continental stage.
UK Sponsorship Scheme Exposed as Candidates Left Waiting in Multi-Thousand Pound Scam
By A Correspondent ● | ZimEye | London, March 21, 2025 — A damning exposé has revealed shocking mismanagement and scam in a UK-based sponsorship scheme, leaving dozens of international job seekers stranded after paying thousands of pounds for Certificates of Sponsorship (COS) that were never delivered.
At the center of the controversy is Emma Walker, a registered NHS nurse and recruiter who has been implicated in a chaotic web of fake papers, contradictions, failed verifications, and financial irregularities. Meeting minutes from a critical discussion on February 25th reveal an alarming picture of negligence and disarray affecting over 50 candidates, many of whom have been waiting since mid-2024 for services that were promised within six months.
Emma Walker
A Program Mired in Contradictions
Walker admitted during the meeting that two COS documents lacked certificate numbers and were provided via videos supposedly showing their issuance on a portal. However, under sustained questioning, she conceded that no checks were made with the Home Office to verify the authenticity of these documents.
Despite claiming to have “performed thorough checks,” Walker repeatedly asked for basic verification information, including the Home Office contact details — exposing an absence of due diligence in a system where candidates pay thousands for UK work opportunities.
Mounting Red Flags
The program, originally marketed as a streamlined six-month pathway to employment, has now extended to nearly 10 months for many. More troubling, the justification for delays — such as a “mandatory” training requirement before COS issuance — was debunked by industry experts as not being a legal prerequisite for certificate allocation.
In another alarming contradiction, Walker offered refunds to affected agents while still insisting during the meeting that she was unaware of the documents being counterfeit — raising serious questions about prior knowledge and transparency.
Financial Exploitation
Evidence reveals that candidates were charged up to £4,000 each, with Walker’s organization allegedly pocketing £1,000 per individual while agents retained the remainder. However, no clear communication was made to the candidates about this split, contributing to widespread confusion and dissatisfaction.
International candidates, including many from Africa and Asia, were promised one-month turnaround times for COS issuance. Yet some have now been waiting up to five months, with no concrete progress — fueling suspicions of systemic failure or worse, deliberate deception.
Industry Reaction
“This is textbook negligence,” said a veteran investigative journalist specializing in immigration scams. “Basic verification steps were ignored. Instead, candidates were given excuses and left hanging for months, despite having paid large sums.”
ZimEye also noted that Walker’s reliance on unverifiable videos instead of using standard Home Office verification procedures shows a reckless disregard for best practices.
Refund Promises Amid Fallout
Walker has now promised refunds within seven days after intense pressure from ZimEye and affected parties. However, there is growing skepticism in the community. Many candidates fear that their hard-earned money will not be fully recovered, given the multiple intermediaries involved and Walker’s shifting explanations.
Community advocates have called on authorities to investigate the scheme, citing concerns that this could be part of a larger pattern of exploitation targeting vulnerable job seekers abroad.
What’s Next?
While Walker has agreed to return funds to her clients, there is still uncertainty surrounding the total number of candidates affected and whether full accountability will be enforced.
As this story develops, the spotlight now shifts to both UK regulators and the Home Office to address mounting calls for tighter oversight of sponsorship schemes and recruitment practices that prey on foreign workers desperate for employment.
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If you or someone you know has been affected by this scheme or others like it, contact [news outlet contact] for confidential assistance.
In-form Magesi goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze has been named the Betway Premiership Player of the Month for March, after a series of remarkable performances that helped solidify his place as one of the league’s top shot-stoppers.
Chipezeze’s incredible run of form saw him keep an impressive four clean sheets in five matches during the month.
His ability to deny opposing teams goals was instrumental in his side’s success, with many observers praising his sharp reflexes, commanding presence in the box, and leadership at the back.
The goalkeeper’s consistency has not only boosted Magesi’s defensive record but has also been a key factor in their strong position in the league standings.
Chipezeze’s performances throughout March have certainly made a mark, earning him widespread recognition among fans and analysts alike.
“I’m grateful for the recognition, but this is a team effort,” said Chipezeze upon receiving the award. “The defense has been solid, and the collective work from the entire squad makes it easier for me to perform. I’ll continue to work hard and hope to keep contributing to the team’s success.”
Chipezeze’s clean sheet streak during March included several crucial saves in tight matches, where his ability to stay calm under pressure was pivotal. His performances reflect not only his individual skill but also his strong understanding of the game, positioning himself effectively and anticipating shots.
Distracted driving has become one of the most significant threats to road safety in recent years. It only takes a mere five seconds to look away from the road — whether it’s to read a text, search for a phone number, adjust your car’s music or GPS, or pick up something that’s fallen — but those five seconds can be deadly. In fact, that short moment of distraction can make the difference between a safe journey and a devastating crash.
While it might seem harmless to glance at your phone or fiddle with the radio for a moment, the consequences can be catastrophic. A vehicle moving at just 55 miles per hour travels the length of a football field in five seconds — a dangerous amount of time when you’re not focused on the road. Those precious seconds can lead to fatal accidents, leaving you, your passengers, and others on the road in harm’s way.
Every moment you spend driving is critical to the safety of everyone around you. It may feel like a small, insignificant distraction, but it can easily result in tragic outcomes. Consider the devastating impact an accident can have on your life and the lives of your loved ones. A crash could leave you struggling in a hospital bed, confined to a wheelchair, or worse, it could end your life. More importantly, it could leave your family in grief and financial turmoil, forever haunted by the absence of your presence.
Think about the effort you put into providing for your family. Imagine how your loved ones would cope without you. Your children may have to drop out of school, and your spouse may struggle to make ends meet. These are the harsh realities of distracted driving that we often fail to acknowledge. A momentary lapse in concentration could change everything for your family, and the consequences are often far-reaching.
The message is clear: every second behind the wheel is crucial. Never let a moment of distraction cost you everything. Stay focused, drive safely, and keep the ones you love safe. Your family needs you — don’t let a few seconds of distraction jeopardize their future.
Produced by Safety and Victims Advocacy Foundation (The Gambia)
At a Zanu PF event in Glen View South on Wednesday, Daniel Garwe, a close ally of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, issued a strong warning to war veteran Blessed Geza, labeling him a “bogus war veteran” and a “puppet.”
Garwe expressed his frustration, stating, “Why are you hiding in South Africa? We will expose Geza’s handlers very soon.
We know there are people who are sending him. Geza, Kasukuwere, and Nyokayemabhunu, we know what you are up to, but you will not succeed.”
He further emphasized Zanu PF’s resolve, adding, “We are ready to defend Mnangagwa and that I can assure you.” Garwe’s comments are part of a broader political tension as the party prepares for the upcoming by-election and ongoing internal power struggles.
Geza has boldly challenged Mr. Emmerson Mnangagwa’s third-term agenda. He is spearheading calls for Mnangagwa’s resignation, citing concerns over corruption, the gross mismanagement of the economy, and rampant looting. His criticisms have made him a prominent figure in opposition circles, and his actions are seen as a direct challenge to Mnangagwa’s leadership.
