Farai Dziva|The Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights (ZADHR) has called on the Ministry to urgently attend to the breakdown of radiotherapy machines at Parirenyatwa and Mpilo hospitals.
In a statement, the ZADHR said the breakdowns were causing great danger to cancer patients countrywide.
“ZADHR is reliably informed that the radiotherapy machines have been out of service for almost a month posing a great danger to cancer patients countrywide. The two radiotherapy centres are the only government facilities that offer such specialist oncology services in the country although the Mpilo hospital machines are rarely functional,” read the statement.
ZADHR has said that cancer patients are being denied their right to healthcare as provided by the Constitution of Zimbabwe through section 76.
“Clinically, delays or interruptions in accessing radiotherapy sessions may result in tumour cell repopulation and can also require that restaging of the tumours be done when normal service resumes. This is both costly to the health system as a whole and provides harmful treatment bottlenecks to cancer patients,” read the statement.
In Dar-es-Salaam, a Tanzanian Court must decide on honorable intentions in a case where a man hired his neighbor to get his wife pregnant.
It seems that Darius Makambako, 50 with his wife Precious 45, really wanted to have a child, but the renowned doctor had told the couple, the husband was sterile.
There was no doubt, the couple was tired of being in a 6-year childless marriage.
So Makambako, a member of the Tanzanian Police Force (Traffic Department), after claiming his wife’s protests, hired his neighbor Evans Mastano, 52, a fellow police officer in the country’s commercial city to impregnate his wife.
Since Evans was already married and the father of two beautiful daughters, plus looked very much like Darius to the boot, the plan seemed good.
Makambako paid Mastano 2,000,000 Tanzanian Shillings (equivalent to K10,000) for the job and for three evenings a week for the next 10 months in 2016.
Evans tried desperately, a total 77 different times to impregnate his friend’s wife Precious but failed.
Reports say Precious a nurse at a private clinic had decided to get a three months vacation leave (March to June 2016) to dedicate her time to sleeping with her husband’s best friend and neighbor in order to have her first child, but the man failed to impregnate her despite the husband leaving them in bed the whole day in most times.
And when Precious failed to get pregnant for 10 months, however, Makambako was not understanding and insisted that Evans have a medical examination, which he did in January 2017.
The doctor’s pronouncement that Evans Mastano was also sterile shocked everyone except his wife, who was forced to confess that Evans was not the real father of her two children, but his cousin Edward.
“I was forced to secretly sleep with her first cousin for these two children after realizing that my husband could not impregnate me for two years”, Angela told the Dar-es-Salaam Today News.
Now Makamboko is suing Evans for breach of contract in an effort to get his money back, but Evans refuses to give it up because he said he did not guarantee conception, but only that he would give an honest effort.
Farai Dziva|Outspoken Norton MP Temba Mliswa has argued that the country’s economy will only recover when everyone gets adequate cash from his or her bank.
“I met a friend of mine who is both a Zimbabwean and an economist. He told me something simple yet profoundly true. Its that, Zim has failed to pass a basic fundamental of what a good economy can do which is getting your cash from a bank. How low we have fallen,” said Mliswa.
“When travelling you are bound to meet interesting people. With Mosiuoa Lekota a veritable fighter in the struggle for black emancipation and my friend Michael Lewis an independent thinking person,” added Mliswa.
Farai Dziva|Norton MP Temba Mliswa has said Zimbabweans are suffering as a result of rampant corruption in government.
“We have many cases of gross corruption which have national significance negatively.
NSSA, Chiadzwa diamonds, Hwange scandal, ZINARA’s dubious tenders and many others where money has and is being abused. All these monies should have gone to supporting national production,” Mliswa said.
“Sanctions, understood as an abuse of power and use of destruction for political expediency, can also include corruption which is a self-imposed form of the same, more pernicious and damaging.”
(CNN)A landmark ruling concerning one of the most contested issues in sport — gender identity — has sent shockwaves through track and field in setting out new parameters for female athletes.
On Wednesday, double Olympic champion lost her appeal against the introduction of new rules regulating the testosterone levels for athletes with a difference in sex development (DSD).
The 28-year-old South African, who is hyperandrogenous — meaning she has elevated levels of testosterone — will now need to take medication to reduce her testosterone if she wants to compete internationally at events between 400 meters and one mile. Semenya is the dominant force in women’s middle distance running.
In its ruling the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) announced that its three-person panel had rejected Semenya’s challenge against athletics’ governing body — the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) — “by majority” but did add that it had “serious concerns as to the future practical application” of the new rules.
Under the IAAF’s policy, which will now come into effect on May 8, all DSD athletes, who are usually born with testes, would have to reduce their blood testosterone levels to below five nmol/L for a continuous period of at least six months, and maintain those levels continuously for the rest of their athletic career, if they want to compete internationally at middle-distance events.
Semenya wins the women’s 800m final during the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.
Hyperandrogenism is a medical condition estimated to occur in 5% to 10% of women.
An excess of testosterone has been found to increase muscle mass within females and cause increased strength, stamina and physical energy.
Some critics argue that skews what should be a level playing field in women’s athletics.
The IAAF believes DSD athletes have a competitive advantage — findings that were disputed by Semenya and her legal team.
A CAS statement said the panel was unable to establish that the DSD regulations were “invalid.” Although the Swiss organization also found the policy was discriminatory to athletes with DSD, CAS said “such discrimination is a necessary, reasonable and proportionate means of achieving the IAAF’s aim of preserving the integrity of female athletics in the Restricted Events.”
It was a conclusion Semenya — who has 30 days to appeal the CAS ruling to the Swiss Federal Tribunal — described as disappointing.
“I know that the IAAF’s regulations have always targeted me specifically. For a decade the IAAF has tried to slow me down, but this has actually made me stronger,” Semenya, the most dominant middle-distance runner of her generation, said in a statement released by her representatives.
“The decision of the CAS will not hold me back. I will once again rise above and continue to inspire young women and athletes in South Africa and around the world.”
Semenya’s representatives said the Olympian was pleased that CAS had found the IAAF rules to be discriminatory against DSD athletes, but was disappointed that two of the arbitrators had deemed such discrimination to be necessary.
“Ms Semenya is reviewing the decision with her legal team and considering whether to file an appeal,” the statement continued.
Whether Wednesday’s decision draws a line in the sand for track and field’s governing body over such a complex issue remains to be seen.
Within the statement, CAS expressed some concerns over the application of the IAAF regulations, which included: the unintentional non-compliance of the strict testosterone levels, the absence of concrete evidence on the advantage higher testosterone gives athletes at distances over 1500 meters and the “practical impossibility” of compliance.
Referring to potential health issues, CAS said: “The side effects of hormonal treatment, experienced by individual athletes could, with further evidence, demonstrate the practical impossibility of compliance which could, in turn, lead to a different conclusion as to the proportionality of the DSD Regulations.”
Semenya is pictured competing at the Rio Olympics in 2016.
The South African Ministry of Sport has told CNN it plans to appeal the CAS ruling to prevent the implementation of the new rules.
“We are naturally very disappointed with the decision. This is not only against human rights but also a blow to all South Africans. We are committed to lobby other athletics bodies to stand behind us. This wasn’t only Caster Semenya’s case but also Athletics South Africa and we plan to study the report in detail. We plan to appeal this decision,” a spokesperson said.
On Twitter, the South African government quoted sports minister Tokozile Xasa as saying that the IAAF’s rules “trample on the human rights and dignity of Caster Semenya and other women athletes.”
In a statement, the IAAF said it was “grateful” and “pleased that the regulations were found to be a necessary, reasonable and proportionate means of achieving the IAAF’s legitimate aim of preserving the integrity of female athletics.”
The rules were due to come into effect in November last year — with IAAF President Sebastian Coe saying at the time in a statement that the federation had a “responsibility to ensure a level playing field” — before being delayed by Semenya’s CAS challenge.
In a move which could have a wider impact, a statement to CNN from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) said it was working with a group of experts on creating guidelines to help international federations “shape sport specific policies and regulations in relation to fairness, safety and inclusivity and non-discrimination on the basis of gender identity and sex characteristics.”
Seismic impact
While the current number of hyperandrogenic and transgender athletes competing at international level is thought to be relatively low, Wednesday’s ruling is likely to have a seismic impact on the future of sport.
Tennis great Martina Navratilova said the CAS verdict was “dreadfully unfair” and “wrong in principle.”
The IAAF has said it will make an exception for athletes wishing to compete under the new regulations at the World Championships in Doha this September.
Though the event is less than six months away, Semenya and other similar athletes will be allowed to begin taking medication before the end of this week to be eligible.
A statement from the IAAF said that no athlete “will be forced to undergo any assessment” and that any treatment was up to the individual athlete.
A career in the limelight
Semenya burst onto the scene as an 18-year-old at the 2009 world championships in Berlin where she won a first major gold, but she was unable to compete for much of 2009 and 2010 after undergoing gender verification tests, the results of which were never officially released.
The South African was eventually cleared to compete again, but a new rule which enforced testosterone limits was introduced in 2011. Yet that directive was subsequently overturned by CAS in 2015.
Semenya went on to win Olympic gold in Rio de Janeiro in 2016 — adding to a gold medal belatedly picked up in London four years earlier after her silver was upgraded because of a doping violation by the winner, Mariya Savinova of Russia.
British athlete Lynsey Sharp was reduced to tears after watching Semenya storm away to victory in Rio. Sharp stated at the time that it was “difficult” for others like her to compete.
On Friday, Semenya won gold in the 5,000 meters at the South African Athletics Championships. This represents a new event for the Olympic champion and one that would not be covered by the new IAAF rules.
MDC PRESIDENT ADV. NELSON CHAMISA ADDRESS ON INTERNATIONAL WORKERS DAY
1 MAY 2019 DZIVARASEKWA STADIUM
VIDEO LOADING BELOW…
The President of the ZCTU, Mr Peter Mutasa
The Secretary General of the ZCTU, Mr Japhet Moyo
Members of the ZCTU General Council
Affiliate Unions here present
ZCTU Veterans
EMCOZ
Govt representative Mr Ngorima
Zimbabwe labour centre rep
FES
ISO
ILo
Mps MPs, Councilors
Leaders of political parties here present, invited Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, Comrades and friends,
I have been favoured with this huge honour to speak here at this occasion where we celebrate the role of workers in our society and reflect on the struggles of the working class. Indeed this is a rare honour, where I am invited to address our own parent.
We meet at a time when the majority of Zimbabweans, young and old, are either out of work and without work, almost hopeless and jobless. Under these circumstances, action only can make things happen. Today is the day dedicated to all those who make efforts and never give up. Workers United will never be defeated. I wish I could say happy Workers’ Day!
Today marks one of the very important dates on the international and indeed, MDC’s all Working People’s calendar, Born as we are out of the desire for a decent living for the working class. We greatly recognise our roots in the Working People of Zimbabwe and in particular recognise the critical role of the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU).
We share and commemorate the blood and sweat of all those of us who spend their time and energy in the mines, the farms, the industry and all the different vocations that make this country and the world what it is today.
As we celebrate this important day, let us remember that in 1999 the conditions that precipitated and caused the birth of the Movement for Democratic Change out of the belly of the working class organisations, represented particularly by our mother, the ZCTU, still remain. Where there has been a change, it has been a change to the worst.
It was then in 1999 and still today that –
• There continues to be a deliberate failure of the economy to address the basic needs of most Zimbabweans, the disempowerment of the people, breach of the rule of law through state sponsored violence and abuse of human rights.
• There is a severe decline in incomes, employment, health, food, security and wellbeing of people – an unfair burden of which is borne by the working women.
• There is continued decline or deterioration and in some cases total collapse of public services.
• There continues to be weak growth in industry and marginalisation of the vast majority of the nation’s entrepreneurs because of incessant patronage and alarming levels of corruption.
• There is widespread corruption and lack of public accountability in political and economic institutions which has eroded the value of our earnings and pension.
As we gather across the country to pay tribute and honour the contribution of the worker in 2019, we must never forget how far we have come and where we are today.
The country has been run down into the edges of an abyss. The living conditions of the worker have been turned into a hell in a cell. The government is on an agenda to milk, to suck out and squeeze out the worker out of himself.
We ‘are at crossroads’ and must therefore ‘unite [to] fight neoliberalism and austerity’.
Our struggle is indeed the struggle of the working class.
• It is the struggle of the parent failing to send his child to school because of the exorbitant school fees;
• the struggle of the parent failing to feed his family because of the skyrocketing prices;
• the struggle of the graduate failing to secure a job opportunity in this country of unprecedented unemployment levels;
• the farmer struggling to get either inputs or reward for their hard labour;
• the teacher standing in front of kids on an empty stomach;
• the nurses attending to patients with her bare hands;
• the police officer standing on the roadside of a scorching day with a topless hat;
• the soldier who is loaded with bullets to kill his brother and sister demanding a better living wage yet clad in his frontless boot.
It is a struggle for everyone against an incompetent bloodthirsty elite that has captured the state, its resources, institutions and closed all avenues for change to rip off the country and deliberately plunge the poqulation into poverty.
You are aware already that as the MDC, your child, we went into the elections in 2018 with your mandate to take over the state and govern Zimbabwe justly, transparently, honestly, fairly and equitably.
The commitment of the working class in their project has been phenomenal, wonderful and commendable. This is indeed our first coming together as the working class since the 30 July 2018 Elections. Therefore, I am pleased to report to you at this opportune time.
We are meeting in a context whereby we won the elections resoundingly. The elections were a hard fought battle. I would like to congratulate every one of you for your hard work and deserved victory.
Our campaign, was incredible.
From this election, We have a strong presence in parliament. We are government in 28 urban councils out of 32 (88%).
Our support base contributes about 80% of the taxes collected in the country.
Our Presidential election campaign was massive and won the popular vote. We won this election and won it resoundingly. 2.6 million People voted for us. Even, on ZECs announced totals, this is the best tally our party has ever produced. It is also a significant increase with about a million votes from our previous best tally even by ZEC’s own figures I would like to thank all those that worked tirelessly to support the party and our campaign. We have many people that contributed their time, money and effort to this struggle.Workers made it possible to score this kind of victory.We thank you all.
Indeed we are at crossroads. We must fight neoliberalism and all its undesirable tentacles.We must resist austerity.We believe in ethical economic under an ethical state.
The market is a good servant but a dangerous master.
THE NATURE OF THE CRISIS..
On account of the disputed election in 2018. We have a crisis of confidence and deficit of trust born out of a political crisis of legitimacy. The crisis of governance manifests itself as an economic crisis.
We have been thrown back to the dark days of shortages of basic commodities, ubiquitous queues, hyperinflation and price increases.All workers have had their salaries’ purchasing power thoroughly eroded.Teachers, nurses, doctors and civil servants in general are suffering.The generality of the Workers in the private sector have not been spared either.
Farmers are not getting a fair reward out their hardwork.
Corruption is rife and rampant on the back of inexplicable immunity and impunity. We have too many dealers instead of genuine investors.Racketeering cartels connected to the the political elites continue to be a national menace.
On account of all this, we are united with the Workers in calling for an end to this suffering. The struggle is just and the fight is noble. We must never give in to cowardice and brutality. We must continue on our quest for freedom and prosperity. Those who have rigged your will and vote can’t rig the economy.
I would like to assure you that the MDC will continue be at the forefront of championing the workers’ cause. We shall remain united with our mother body in creating better conditions for our people.
As we move forward, I would like to assure the leadership of the ZCTU that we are working on modalities that will create a platform for deeper organic integration and engagement between the MDC and labour to advance the working class agenda.
I am quite aware that there is nothing to celebrate today on this important day, but I would like to promise you that the end is nigh and victory is near.
We want to ensure that the rights of all workers are respected. We must all unite in our demand for a decent living wage. We must all come together to create decent working conditions. Our economy must grow to create jobs for our graduates. Gone are the days where a connected political elite plunder the God-given resources of our beloved country whilst the worker wallows in poverty. The worker is the mainstay of our economy and well-being.
OUR WORKING CLASS AGENDA
The MDC will run a professional civil service strictly implementing the public administration and leadership principles provided for in section 194 of the Constitution.
These principles will guide the use of public resources, personnel ethics, and transparency of processes, continuous professional development and training with the goal to push the development agenda forward.
Beyond these, the government will honour the following obligation to its employees:
• Ensuring competitive remuneration in line with the standards maintained in neighbouring brother countries in the region.
• Provision for a public housing scheme for the civil servants.
• Affordable quality health insurance.
• Payment of a risk allowance especially for personnel in the medical services sector.
• Incentivising work in marginalised communities.
• Affording personnel continuous professional development and training including paid study leave.
• Ensuring that the security services of Zimbabwe are turned into institutions of excellence serving the interests of Zimbabweans and assisting civilian authority in maintaining the security of the country.
Further we shall institute a comprehensive labour market reform to achieve the following;
-one labour law for the country
-institutionalization of tripartite forum
-social protection of workers and their families especially through reform of NSSA.
-Redollarisation to ring fence incomes
-stopping of all harassment of Trade Unions
-Reindustrialisation to create jobs
-strengthening of collective bargaining through TNF and emphasizing the PDL
– Free testing and treatment of chronic diseases to cushion all workers.
-eliminate wage theft
– institute discipline into the market
– Focus on production and entrepreneurship
– Promote technology transfer
– Massive creation of jobs through public works progs, tourism, resuscitation of industries and accelerated smart agriculture.
I would like to thank and appreciate the role played by the ZCTU and all workers’ organisations. It is a daunting task to continue to lead the worker’s cause in this toxic political environment characterised by total disregard of human rights and inhuman brutality. Your courage and determination is an inspiration.
Most importantly, I would like to assure our people that we will not tire in our quest for freedom. We have put measures in place to intensify our demand for good governance and better living standards for us all. I equally thank you for your resilience and commitment. We have suffered enough and indeed, enough is enough.
LOCATING THE EXIT POINT OUT OF THE CRISIS- THE WAY FORWARD
We are calling for urgent but genuine and credible national dialogue to resolve the political crisis and legitimacy defect.On our part, we have a 5 point plan to deal with the following;
1)Legitimacy and disputed election
2)comprehensive political, economic
And electoral reforms
3)peace and nation building, national healing
4)International reengagement
5)Humanitarian and economic rescue programs
We are relentless in our pursuit of your stolen victory. We will ensure that you get the government of your choice that will deliver on the promise of the struggles of the working people of our country.
I thank you
God Bless You
Adv Nelson Chamisa
MDC President
Farai Dziva|Socialite and businesswoman has mesmerized Zimbabweans with her fancy dressing.
Responding to an online survey about her appearance, Zimbabweans were “hypnotized” by Pokello’ s photos.
See some of the comments below:
Amen Tafadzwa Masitoko:Is not a marrying type, unogara ne stress.
Farai Chags:A beautiful, fashionista and Socialite.
Mwaba Chintu:
She is Beautiful!!!
Mai Tendai:
Beautiful not many girls can carry that òutfit fact check this outfit below if you want to have a go with Pokello you will end up looking silly.
Lindah Namiwa: She is very pretty and she knows how to dress.
Senanisiwe Bhebhe:Beautiful, yes astoundingly beautiful The envy of many.
Rutendo Nyatsanza: She is the queen of swagger for sure and haakendenge.
Yvonne Tandari:She knows how to dress .l like her style.
Own Correspondent|COSAFA has suspended and fined Zimbabwe after failing to honour an agreement to host the 2019 edition of the COSAFA Cup.
Zimbabwe had committed to host the tournament then pulled out at the last minute.
However the Warriors will still be able to participate in the tournament that will now be hosted by South Africa.
A statement from Cosafa read:
ZIFA have received a conditional suspension from COSAFA, but can remedy the situation within two months if they confirm the country as hosts of the 2020 COSAFA Cup, and provide the already signed guarantees from the Zimbabwe government to this effect.
Failure to do so will see the association suspended, though the two-month grace period will allow the national team to compete in the 2019 COSAFA Cup in Durban, South Africa from May 25-June 8.
ZIFA have also been fined US$50,000, with a further amount of US$150,000 suspended until the above condition over 2020 hosting has been met.
Zimbabwe are the current holders of the tournament. The draw is set to take place on Thursday 2 May.
MDC PRESIDENT ADV. NELSON CHAMISA ADDRESS ON INTERNATIONAL WORKERS DAY
1 MAY 2019 DZIVARASEKWA STADIUM
VIDEO LOADING BELOW…
The President of the ZCTU, Mr Peter Mutasa
The Secretary General of the ZCTU, Mr Japhet Moyo
Members of the ZCTU General Council
Affiliate Unions here present
ZCTU Veterans
EMCOZ
Govt representative Mr Ngorima
Zimbabwe labour centre rep
FES
ISO
ILo
Mps MPs, Councilors
Leaders of political parties here present, invited Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, Comrades and friends,
I have been favoured with this huge honour to speak here at this occasion where we celebrate the role of workers in our society and reflect on the struggles of the working class. Indeed this is a rare honour, where I am invited to address our own parent.
We meet at a time when the majority of Zimbabweans, young and old, are either out of work and without work, almost hopeless and jobless. Under these circumstances, action only can make things happen. Today is the day dedicated to all those who make efforts and never give up. Workers United will never be defeated. I wish I could say happy Workers’ Day!
Today marks one of the very important dates on the international and indeed, MDC’s all Working People’s calendar, Born as we are out of the desire for a decent living for the working class. We greatly recognise our roots in the Working People of Zimbabwe and in particular recognise the critical role of the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU).
We share and commemorate the blood and sweat of all those of us who spend their time and energy in the mines, the farms, the industry and all the different vocations that make this country and the world what it is today.
As we celebrate this important day, let us remember that in 1999 the conditions that precipitated and caused the birth of the Movement for Democratic Change out of the belly of the working class organisations, represented particularly by our mother, the ZCTU, still remain. Where there has been a change, it has been a change to the worst.
It was then in 1999 and still today that –
• There continues to be a deliberate failure of the economy to address the basic needs of most Zimbabweans, the disempowerment of the people, breach of the rule of law through state sponsored violence and abuse of human rights.
• There is a severe decline in incomes, employment, health, food, security and wellbeing of people – an unfair burden of which is borne by the working women.
• There is continued decline or deterioration and in some cases total collapse of public services.
• There continues to be weak growth in industry and marginalisation of the vast majority of the nation’s entrepreneurs because of incessant patronage and alarming levels of corruption.
• There is widespread corruption and lack of public accountability in political and economic institutions which has eroded the value of our earnings and pension.
As we gather across the country to pay tribute and honour the contribution of the worker in 2019, we must never forget how far we have come and where we are today.
The country has been run down into the edges of an abyss. The living conditions of the worker have been turned into a hell in a cell. The government is on an agenda to milk, to suck out and squeeze out the worker out of himself.
We ‘are at crossroads’ and must therefore ‘unite [to] fight neoliberalism and austerity’.
Our struggle is indeed the struggle of the working class.
• It is the struggle of the parent failing to send his child to school because of the exorbitant school fees;
• the struggle of the parent failing to feed his family because of the skyrocketing prices;
• the struggle of the graduate failing to secure a job opportunity in this country of unprecedented unemployment levels;
• the farmer struggling to get either inputs or reward for their hard labour;
• the teacher standing in front of kids on an empty stomach;
• the nurses attending to patients with her bare hands;
• the police officer standing on the roadside of a scorching day with a topless hat;
• the soldier who is loaded with bullets to kill his brother and sister demanding a better living wage yet clad in his frontless boot.
It is a struggle for everyone against an incompetent bloodthirsty elite that has captured the state, its resources, institutions and closed all avenues for change to rip off the country and deliberately plunge the poqulation into poverty.
You are aware already that as the MDC, your child, we went into the elections in 2018 with your mandate to take over the state and govern Zimbabwe justly, transparently, honestly, fairly and equitably.
The commitment of the working class in their project has been phenomenal, wonderful and commendable. This is indeed our first coming together as the working class since the 30 July 2018 Elections. Therefore, I am pleased to report to you at this opportune time.
We are meeting in a context whereby we won the elections resoundingly. The elections were a hard fought battle. I would like to congratulate every one of you for your hard work and deserved victory.
Our campaign, was incredible.
From this election, We have a strong presence in parliament. We are government in 28 urban councils out of 32 (88%).
Our support base contributes about 80% of the taxes collected in the country.
Our Presidential election campaign was massive and won the popular vote. We won this election and won it resoundingly. 2.6 million People voted for us. Even, on ZECs announced totals, this is the best tally our party has ever produced. It is also a significant increase with about a million votes from our previous best tally even by ZEC’s own figures I would like to thank all those that worked tirelessly to support the party and our campaign. We have many people that contributed their time, money and effort to this struggle.Workers made it possible to score this kind of victory.We thank you all.
Indeed we are at crossroads. We must fight neoliberalism and all its undesirable tentacles.We must resist austerity.We believe in ethical economic under an ethical state.
The market is a good servant but a dangerous master.
THE NATURE OF THE CRISIS..
On account of the disputed election in 2018. We have a crisis of confidence and deficit of trust born out of a political crisis of legitimacy. The crisis of governance manifests itself as an economic crisis.
We have been thrown back to the dark days of shortages of basic commodities, ubiquitous queues, hyperinflation and price increases.All workers have had their salaries’ purchasing power thoroughly eroded.Teachers, nurses, doctors and civil servants in general are suffering.The generality of the Workers in the private sector have not been spared either.
Farmers are not getting a fair reward out their hardwork.
Corruption is rife and rampant on the back of inexplicable immunity and impunity. We have too many dealers instead of genuine investors.Racketeering cartels connected to the the political elites continue to be a national menace.
On account of all this, we are united with the Workers in calling for an end to this suffering. The struggle is just and the fight is noble. We must never give in to cowardice and brutality. We must continue on our quest for freedom and prosperity. Those who have rigged your will and vote can’t rig the economy.
I would like to assure you that the MDC will continue be at the forefront of championing the workers’ cause. We shall remain united with our mother body in creating better conditions for our people.
As we move forward, I would like to assure the leadership of the ZCTU that we are working on modalities that will create a platform for deeper organic integration and engagement between the MDC and labour to advance the working class agenda.
I am quite aware that there is nothing to celebrate today on this important day, but I would like to promise you that the end is nigh and victory is near.
We want to ensure that the rights of all workers are respected. We must all unite in our demand for a decent living wage. We must all come together to create decent working conditions. Our economy must grow to create jobs for our graduates. Gone are the days where a connected political elite plunder the God-given resources of our beloved country whilst the worker wallows in poverty. The worker is the mainstay of our economy and well-being.
OUR WORKING CLASS AGENDA
The MDC will run a professional civil service strictly implementing the public administration and leadership principles provided for in section 194 of the Constitution.
These principles will guide the use of public resources, personnel ethics, and transparency of processes, continuous professional development and training with the goal to push the development agenda forward.
Beyond these, the government will honour the following obligation to its employees:
• Ensuring competitive remuneration in line with the standards maintained in neighbouring brother countries in the region.
• Provision for a public housing scheme for the civil servants.
• Affordable quality health insurance.
• Payment of a risk allowance especially for personnel in the medical services sector.
• Incentivising work in marginalised communities.
• Affording personnel continuous professional development and training including paid study leave.
• Ensuring that the security services of Zimbabwe are turned into institutions of excellence serving the interests of Zimbabweans and assisting civilian authority in maintaining the security of the country.
Further we shall institute a comprehensive labour market reform to achieve the following;
-one labour law for the country
-institutionalization of tripartite forum
-social protection of workers and their families especially through reform of NSSA.
-Redollarisation to ring fence incomes
-stopping of all harassment of Trade Unions
-Reindustrialisation to create jobs
-strengthening of collective bargaining through TNF and emphasizing the PDL
– Free testing and treatment of chronic diseases to cushion all workers.
-eliminate wage theft
– institute discipline into the market
– Focus on production and entrepreneurship
– Promote technology transfer
– Massive creation of jobs through public works progs, tourism, resuscitation of industries and accelerated smart agriculture.
I would like to thank and appreciate the role played by the ZCTU and all workers’ organisations. It is a daunting task to continue to lead the worker’s cause in this toxic political environment characterised by total disregard of human rights and inhuman brutality. Your courage and determination is an inspiration.
Most importantly, I would like to assure our people that we will not tire in our quest for freedom. We have put measures in place to intensify our demand for good governance and better living standards for us all. I equally thank you for your resilience and commitment. We have suffered enough and indeed, enough is enough.
LOCATING THE EXIT POINT OUT OF THE CRISIS- THE WAY FORWARD
We are calling for urgent but genuine and credible national dialogue to resolve the political crisis and legitimacy defect.On our part, we have a 5 point plan to deal with the following;
1)Legitimacy and disputed election
2)comprehensive political, economic
And electoral reforms
3)peace and nation building, national healing
4)International reengagement
5)Humanitarian and economic rescue programs
We are relentless in our pursuit of your stolen victory. We will ensure that you get the government of your choice that will deliver on the promise of the struggles of the working people of our country.
I thank you
God Bless You
Adv Nelson Chamisa
MDC President
MDC PRESIDENT ADV. NELSON CHAMISA ADDRESS ON INTERNATIONAL WORKERS DAY
1 MAY 2019 DZIVARASEKWA STADIUM
The President of the ZCTU, Mr Peter Mutasa
The Secretary General of the ZCTU, Mr Japhet Moyo
Members of the ZCTU General Council
Affiliate Unions here present
ZCTU Veterans
EMCOZ
Govt representative Mr Ngorima
Zimbabwe labour centre rep
FES
ISO
ILo
Mps MPs, Councilors
Leaders of political parties here present, invited Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, Comrades and friends,
I have been favoured with this huge honour to speak here at this occasion where we celebrate the role of workers in our society and reflect on the struggles of the working class. Indeed this is a rare honour, where I am invited to address our own parent.
We meet at a time when the majority of Zimbabweans, young and old, are either out of work and without work, almost hopeless and jobless. Under these circumstances, action only can make things happen. Today is the day dedicated to all those who make efforts and never give up. Workers United will never be defeated. I wish I could say happy Workers’ Day!
Today marks one of the very important dates on the international and indeed, MDC’s all Working People’s calendar, Born as we are out of the desire for a decent living for the working class. We greatly recognise our roots in the Working People of Zimbabwe and in particular recognise the critical role of the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU).
We share and commemorate the blood and sweat of all those of us who spend their time and energy in the mines, the farms, the industry and all the different vocations that make this country and the world what it is today.
As we celebrate this important day, let us remember that in 1999 the conditions that precipitated and caused the birth of the Movement for Democratic Change out of the belly of the working class organisations, represented particularly by our mother, the ZCTU, still remain. Where there has been a change, it has been a change to the worst.
It was then in 1999 and still today that –
• There continues to be a deliberate failure of the economy to address the basic needs of most Zimbabweans, the disempowerment of the people, breach of the rule of law through state sponsored violence and abuse of human rights.
• There is a severe decline in incomes, employment, health, food, security and wellbeing of people – an unfair burden of which is borne by the working women.
• There is continued decline or deterioration and in some cases total collapse of public services.
• There continues to be weak growth in industry and marginalisation of the vast majority of the nation’s entrepreneurs because of incessant patronage and alarming levels of corruption.
• There is widespread corruption and lack of public accountability in political and economic institutions which has eroded the value of our earnings and pension.
As we gather across the country to pay tribute and honour the contribution of the worker in 2019, we must never forget how far we have come and where we are today.
The country has been run down into the edges of an abyss. The living conditions of the worker have been turned into a hell in a cell. The government is on an agenda to milk, to suck out and squeeze out the worker out of himself.
We ‘are at crossroads’ and must therefore ‘unite [to] fight neoliberalism and austerity’.
Our struggle is indeed the struggle of the working class.
• It is the struggle of the parent failing to send his child to school because of the exorbitant school fees;
• the struggle of the parent failing to feed his family because of the skyrocketing prices;
• the struggle of the graduate failing to secure a job opportunity in this country of unprecedented unemployment levels;
• the farmer struggling to get either inputs or reward for their hard labour;
• the teacher standing in front of kids on an empty stomach;
• the nurses attending to patients with her bare hands;
• the police officer standing on the roadside of a scorching day with a topless hat;
• the soldier who is loaded with bullets to kill his brother and sister demanding a better living wage yet clad in his frontless boot.
It is a struggle for everyone against an incompetent bloodthirsty elite that has captured the state, its resources, institutions and closed all avenues for change to rip off the country and deliberately plunge the poqulation into poverty.
You are aware already that as the MDC, your child, we went into the elections in 2018 with your mandate to take over the state and govern Zimbabwe justly, transparently, honestly, fairly and equitably.
The commitment of the working class in their project has been phenomenal, wonderful and commendable. This is indeed our first coming together as the working class since the 30 July 2018 Elections. Therefore, I am pleased to report to you at this opportune time.
We are meeting in a context whereby we won the elections resoundingly. The elections were a hard fought battle. I would like to congratulate every one of you for your hard work and deserved victory.
Our campaign, was incredible.
From this election, We have a strong presence in parliament. We are government in 28 urban councils out of 32 (88%).
Our support base contributes about 80% of the taxes collected in the country.
Our Presidential election campaign was massive and won the popular vote. We won this election and won it resoundingly. 2.6 million People voted for us. Even, on ZECs announced totals, this is the best tally our party has ever produced. It is also a significant increase with about a million votes from our previous best tally even by ZEC’s own figures I would like to thank all those that worked tirelessly to support the party and our campaign. We have many people that contributed their time, money and effort to this struggle.Workers made it possible to score this kind of victory.We thank you all.
Indeed we are at crossroads. We must fight neoliberalism and all its undesirable tentacles.We must resist austerity.We believe in ethical economic under an ethical state.
The market is a good servant but a dangerous master.
THE NATURE OF THE CRISIS..
On account of the disputed election in 2018. We have a crisis of confidence and deficit of trust born out of a political crisis of legitimacy. The crisis of governance manifests itself as an economic crisis.
We have been thrown back to the dark days of shortages of basic commodities, ubiquitous queues, hyperinflation and price increases.All workers have had their salaries’ purchasing power thoroughly eroded.Teachers, nurses, doctors and civil servants in general are suffering.The generality of the Workers in the private sector have not been spared either.
Farmers are not getting a fair reward out their hardwork.
Corruption is rife and rampant on the back of inexplicable immunity and impunity. We have too many dealers instead of genuine investors.Racketeering cartels connected to the the political elites continue to be a national menace.
On account of all this, we are united with the Workers in calling for an end to this suffering. The struggle is just and the fight is noble. We must never give in to cowardice and brutality. We must continue on our quest for freedom and prosperity. Those who have rigged your will and vote can’t rig the economy.
I would like to assure you that the MDC will continue be at the forefront of championing the workers’ cause. We shall remain united with our mother body in creating better conditions for our people.
As we move forward, I would like to assure the leadership of the ZCTU that we are working on modalities that will create a platform for deeper organic integration and engagement between the MDC and labour to advance the working class agenda.
I am quite aware that there is nothing to celebrate today on this important day, but I would like to promise you that the end is nigh and victory is near.
We want to ensure that the rights of all workers are respected. We must all unite in our demand for a decent living wage. We must all come together to create decent working conditions. Our economy must grow to create jobs for our graduates. Gone are the days where a connected political elite plunder the God-given resources of our beloved country whilst the worker wallows in poverty. The worker is the mainstay of our economy and well-being.
OUR WORKING CLASS AGENDA
The MDC will run a professional civil service strictly implementing the public administration and leadership principles provided for in section 194 of the Constitution.
These principles will guide the use of public resources, personnel ethics, and transparency of processes, continuous professional development and training with the goal to push the development agenda forward.
Beyond these, the government will honour the following obligation to its employees:
• Ensuring competitive remuneration in line with the standards maintained in neighbouring brother countries in the region.
• Provision for a public housing scheme for the civil servants.
• Affordable quality health insurance.
• Payment of a risk allowance especially for personnel in the medical services sector.
• Incentivising work in marginalised communities.
• Affording personnel continuous professional development and training including paid study leave.
• Ensuring that the security services of Zimbabwe are turned into institutions of excellence serving the interests of Zimbabweans and assisting civilian authority in maintaining the security of the country.
Further we shall institute a comprehensive labour market reform to achieve the following;
-one labour law for the country
-institutionalization of tripartite forum
-social protection of workers and their families especially through reform of NSSA.
-Redollarisation to ring fence incomes
-stopping of all harassment of Trade Unions
-Reindustrialisation to create jobs
-strengthening of collective bargaining through TNF and emphasizing the PDL
– Free testing and treatment of chronic diseases to cushion all workers.
-eliminate wage theft
– institute discipline into the market
– Focus on production and entrepreneurship
– Promote technology transfer
– Massive creation of jobs through public works progs, tourism, resuscitation of industries and accelerated smart agriculture.
I would like to thank and appreciate the role played by the ZCTU and all workers’ organisations. It is a daunting task to continue to lead the worker’s cause in this toxic political environment characterised by total disregard of human rights and inhuman brutality. Your courage and determination is an inspiration.
Most importantly, I would like to assure our people that we will not tire in our quest for freedom. We have put measures in place to intensify our demand for good governance and better living standards for us all. I equally thank you for your resilience and commitment. We have suffered enough and indeed, enough is enough.
LOCATING THE EXIT POINT OUT OF THE CRISIS- THE WAY FORWARD
We are calling for urgent but genuine and credible national dialogue to resolve the political crisis and legitimacy defect.On our part, we have a 5 point plan to deal with the following;
1)Legitimacy and disputed election
2)comprehensive political, economic
And electoral reforms
3)peace and nation building, national healing
4)International reengagement
5)Humanitarian and economic rescue programs
We are relentless in our pursuit of your stolen victory. We will ensure that you get the government of your choice that will deliver on the promise of the struggles of the working people of our country.
I thank you
God Bless You
Adv Nelson Chamisa
MDC President
Farai Dziva|A Zanu PF sympathiser has urged the nation to unite against what he says are sanctions against Harare.
Zimbabwe Amalgamated Council of Churches spokesperson Davison Gomo said the nation should unite if the war against sanctions is to be won.
Gomo has said it is a pity that Zimbabweans have been living under the belief that sanctions are not in any way affecting the economy.
“Sanctions were designed to make everyone suffer,” he said.
“They are not meant for a few individuals as those who imposed them have made everyone to believe.”
“It is sad that people are busy insulting our President saying he is failing. They say that because they were made to think so by these liars. But truth be told, sanctions are the cause of all this suffering we are experiencing.”
“Let us stop blaming the new dispensation, rather Zimbabwe should join President Mnangagwa in the fight against these illegal sanctions.”
Farai Dziva|A Zanu PF apologist has sensationally claimed that the United States lied about the facts behind the imposition of sanctions on Harare.
Jimaya Muduvuri who is the chairperson of a lobby group, Coalition Against Sanctions (CAS), has claimed the sanctions are real and not targeted.
Muduvuri said Zimbabweans were now aware that the United States lied that sanctions imposed on the country were targeted.
“It is now public knowledge that America was lying all these years to the people of Zimbabwe that the sanctions were targeted at few individuals and organisations in Zimbabwe,” claimed Muduvuri.
“What is left now is for Zimbabweans to come out, unite and use one voice in calling for the unconditional removal of these illegal sanctions.
It is important for those with knowledge to educate others on the effects of these sanctions and the impact they have on everyone’s lives.”
This picture of the Harare- Chiredzi Highway reflects the bad state of Zimbabwe’ s roads.Zim’ s roads are too narrow thereby posing a high risk of accidents…
As the world commemorates Workers Day, National People’s Party (NPP) joins the Nation in mourning the loss of freedom and happiness of our workers..
Freedom for the workers means eradication of poverty, emancipation from gender discrimination and an end to unemployment..
Happiness entitles all workers to enjoy the power of their hard earned wages through affordable low priced goods and services..
It’s no longer a secret that hardships and problems bedevilling Zimbabwe workers are Politically motivated..
As we commemorate workers day, perhaps it’s time for us as a country to take stock and audit our achievements and failures since the 30th June 2018 Elections …
Are we happy with the working conditions that our workers are being subjected to?
Are we happy with the wages and salaries that our workers and civil servants are getting?
Are we happy with the commodity prices that our farmers are getting from their hard work?
In every election, yes we accept that there will be winners and losers but at the end of the day when losers and winners come together, the country becomes the Ultimate Winner.
With this in mind, as NPP, we recognise one important role which we are supposed to perform to ensure a betterment of our people’s lives.
Our SHADOW role will grow big as we continue to point out at all the wrongs by Government and Local Councils without fear or favour.
Our duty is to keep all elected officials on check…service delivery tops the list of people’s aspirations and as such we are going to speak with loud voices until we are heard..
We must not make service delivery a political game where Zanu PF and MDC blame each other for skewed and poor services…We will not accept excuses from Government as they seek to hide behind sanctions for their poor economic performances.
Major cities and towns are running without water and clean water for that matter, MDC led Councils should raise up their standards of service delivery , refuse collection should be prioritized and all burst sewer attended to.. A renewal of old water and sewer pipes should be implemented as a matter of urgency as promised..
Yes we are not in Parliament neither are we in Council Chambers but our petitions will find there way up there ..
We are going to speak with loud voices that our People are being over Taxed.. We will never be silenced until all unscrupulous levies have been scrapped off..
We are going to make noise when Bills such as Maintenance of Peace and Order Bill (MAPO) are to be passed into law.
Why should Parliament waste precious time in debating this bill, which simply belongs to the dustbin. Instead the Parliament should deliberate extensively on a comprehensive YOUTH policy as well as electoral reforms..
With this new law, why should Zanu PF be allowed to legitimize the militarization of the state and by so doing, stripping our people of their rights to Freedom and Association..
We are going to make noise until free Primary and Secondary education is introduced in our country as promised..
The ever skyrocketing prices of food, mobile data and medicines is indeed sending most Zimbabweans to their graveyards early and faster..
It’s time to let big brains move the country forward… An economic turn around can only be realized if we all start listening and respecting the will of the people…
Our view is that Imposition of price controls is the last line of economic and political defense, A desperate attempt by Zanu PF led Government to hang on to power when the economic wind is naturally self explanatory.. If there are Businesses which are sabotaging the economy why can’t the Government name and shame the saboteurs than to let the lives of thousands of workers slide further into misery…
Numbers don’t lie…
The high percentages of unemployment is a clear indication that industrialization to be achieved now requires injection of new ideas..
Deals this and mega deals that, infact this mantra, Zimbabwe is open for loans is not taking us anywhere.. Loans and more loans will never solve our problems but rather continue to pile more burdens for the next generations..Our mindset as a country need to change speedily ..
Zimbabwe is not a poor country it’s time we should turn our natural resources to good use for the benefit of our people through infrastructure development and technological advancements ..We cannot continue begging money for medicines and hospital equipment.. Why should we continue to beg for construction of bridges and roads when we pride ourselves of being the over naturally resourced country on earth…
Why should we import wheat for bread and maize for Sadza when we have dams for irrigations..?
What happened to the the discoveries of gas in Lupane..what happened to the the discoveries of oil deposits in the Zambezi basin.. what happened to the discoveries of lithium and platinum in the great dyke..?
Where are our diamonds going..? Where is our precious gold going…? What’s happening to our Platinum and Chrome..?
Yes we will not keep silence when only a few continue to parcel themselves a cake that must be shared equally to all..
As the workers reflect on their hardships we solidly rally behind their efforts of providing for their families…
Child labour is on the increase due to high levels of Poverty in Zimbabwe…Children continue to be abused in Agriculture and mining sectors were small scale players engage children mostly for free Labour and minimum wages.
We should not forget these children who are struggling to fend for themselves and their families on this day..
Yes we will never keep silence when our children continue to be abused and exploited…
By Own Correspondent- President Mnangagwa has ordered a Chinese company to stop its planned quarry mining activities in Domboshava which would have resulted in the eviction of 20 000 villagers.
The order comes after the Chinese company had already ordered villagers to vacate the area to create space for the project.
Energy Mutodi, Information deputy minister and local MP, confirmed the development yesterday. He said that president Mnangagwa indicated that the area was not open for mining since it is a tourism resort. Mutodi said:
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has come to the rescue of Domboshava villagers, who were facing eviction by a Chinese quarry mining firm, Aihua Jianye. The President has ordered that the firm stops mining activities in the area known for its rock art and as a tourist attraction.
Mutodi recently accused an MDC councillor Tapiwa Murima and district administrator, Priscah Dube of illegally allowing the Chinese firm to mine at Garimo Hill. The MDC has however since refuted the allegations.-Newsday
Today we recognise the role played by our workers in our economy and society. Our workers are an integral cog as we restructure, reform and rebuild our economy, and we appreciate the contributions, hard work and sacrifices that you continue to make.
We are well aware of the challenges faced by the labour sector. We are committed to increasing the number of people in employment and to ensuring the dignity of all workers, through restoring your purchasing power, improving our transport system, housing delivery, and clean water, sanitation and energy provision.
Our freedom and independence was won through hard work, unity and sacrifice. Let us all therefore celebrate this 2019 Workers Day with renewed determination, solidarity and hope. With unity and hard work, we shall realise our goals.
By Own Correspondent- The Movement for Democratic Party has dismissed claims by the ruling party of a plot to unseat president Mnangagwa as mere excuses to crackdown on protestors.
Speaking during a press briefing, the MDC spokesperson, Jacob Mafume said:
We have said this before, that Zimbabwe is captured by very dangerous group of people, who are irrational, unreasonable, paranoid and will do anything to crush dissent in pursuit of their power retention agenda.
They reveal another attempt to victimise Zimbabweans, justify premeditated crackdown on actors in the democratic movement.
Mafume’s sentiments follow a stern warning by minister of Home Affairs, Cain Mathema on Monday to the opposition and some civil society organisations against protests which he said were meant to remove the incumbent government.
Mafume further said that this was ZANU PF’s archaic strategy which will not work this time as the MDC is fully aware of its rights and freedoms. He added that instead of intimidating citizens, the e government is supposed to be looking at ways to mitigate the crisis it created.-ZimMail
By MISA | On 30 April 2019, Econet Wireless became the latest mobile network operator to hike the cost of mobile data.
In February this year, the Reserve Bank devalued the local RTGS dollar against the United States dollar. Since that announcement, Internet service providers and mobile network operators have increased data costs in the name of realigning their prices to the “correct” United States dollar value.
These recent increases ignore the fact that even before the official devaluation in February, Internet service providers, and mobile network providers had already implemented several data cost increases in the name of coping with rising inflation and service delivery costs.
The latest hikes in data costs have rekindled debate about the affordability of Internet access in Zimbabwe, especially in an environment where income or salaries have remained static.
Howmuch.net’s comparative report on mobile data costs illustrates the confusing effect that the government-sponsored USD to RTGS dollar exchange rate has had on measuring the affordability of local Internet costs.
According to Howmuch.net, a gigabyte of data costs US$70 in Zimbabwe. This figure does not take into consideration the official inter-bank exchange rate. The actual average cost of mobile data in USD terms is around US$15 to US$20 which translates to between RTGS $45 to RTGS $70 depending on the value of the exchange rate used.
Local Internet service providers and mobile network operators have capitalised on this same confusion to continuously and unjustifiably increase data costs.
In a statement dated 24 April 2019, the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) states that mobile network operators can legally charge up to 0,05 RTGS cents per megabyte or RTGS $50 per gigabyte before tax.
It is important to note that Zimbabwean mobile network operators mainly sell bundled data. Bundled data refers to data bundles that limit access to specific Apps such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Twitter.
Alternatively, some bundle data expires within a limited amount of time. In the Zimbabwean context, mobile data expires after a 30-day period.
At face value, this pricing model appears to be more affordable. However, this pricing structure is actually more profitable for mobile network operators and more expensive for the consumer. For example, if a subscriber buys a 1-gigabyte bundle of data that is valid for a day at RTGS $5, that subscriber would, in theory, spend around RTGS $150 on Internet in a 30-day month.
The POTRAZ threshold for data costs translates to about $15 to $20 per gigabyte in United States dollar terms. A regional comparative would show that Zimbabwean data is not that expensive, considering for example that South Africa charges an average US$11 per gigabyte of data.
Unfortunately, the Zimbabwean situation is made complex by the fact that the cost of services such as the Internet and mobile data have gone up in response to the devaluation of the RTGS dollar, but average salaries or incomes have remained largely stagnant.
That is why the debate on Internet costs in Zimbabwe should be in relation to the national average monthly income and not the cost of data in neighbouring countries or regions. If average monthly income is about RTGS $450 that means the current cost of a gigabyte of data is more than 10% of an average Zimbabwean’s salary. That is unjustifiably high.
The Alliance for Affordable Internet (A4AI) has come up with a formula that caters for each country’s unique conditions. The A4AI argues that the Internet is affordable if a gigabyte of mobile out-of-bundle broadband data is priced at 2% or less of average monthly income. In terms of this formula, Zimbabwean mobile data is still woefully expensive.
POTRAZ reports that as of 31 December 2018, 8,7 million Zimbabweans had access to the Internet. The same report indicates that most Zimbabweans accessed the Internet via their mobile devices. Increases in Internet costs, especially mobile data costs will most likely see a reduction in the number of Zimbabweans that can access the Internet.
Limited access to the Internet also means Zimbabweans will not be able to enjoy their rights to access information and to share their opinions in online spaces. This means that these inordinate hikes in data costs become an indirect attack on people’s constitutional rights.
In the long term, a reduction in the number of people with access to the Internet will in turn stunt economic growth in Zimbabwe.
About MISA Zimbabwe
The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zimbabwe was founded in 1996. Its work focuses on promoting, and advocating for, the unhindered enjoyment of freedom of expression, access to information and a free, independent, diverse and pluralistic media.
Statement By Emmerson Mnangagwa|Today we recognise the role played by our workers in our economy and society. Our workers are an integral cog as we restructure, reform and rebuild our economy, and we appreciate the contributions, hard work and sacrifices that you continue to make.
We are well aware of the challenges faced by the labour sector. We are committed to increasing the number of people in employment and to ensuring the dignity of all workers, through restoring your purchasing power, improving our transport system, housing delivery, and clean water, sanitation and energy provision.
Our freedom and independence was won through hard work, unity and sacrifice. Let us all therefore celebrate this 2019 Workers Day with renewed determination, solidarity and hope. With unity and hard work, we shall realise our goals.
By Own Correspondent- Zanu Pf has vowed to deal with economic terrorists revealing that the party was in the process of setting up teams to deal with such unscrupulous business people.
Said the Zanu Pf Youth League:
Monday the Zanu PF Youth League management committee met at the Revolutionary Party Headquarters and discussed a number of issues, notably the state of the economy, business arbitrage, and the threat posed by regime change purveyors under the guise of opposition.
Of major concern to us as the Vanguard of the governing party is the economic sabotage that businesses are practising, needlessly profiteering at the expense of the broad masses and increasing prices willy-nilly.
The price increases are unjustified and speculative and uncalled for. We hope that business will do the right thing and stop the madness before we descend on errant companies that are behaving like the terrorists, hurting the economy and blunting the country’s economic revival efforts.
We resolved, at our management committee meeting, that we need to cleanse the country of all systems that are in the habit of sucking our people and deal decisively with mafia business organisations that are syphoning and mopping foreign currency.
The Zanu PF Youth League is well aware that there is a cartel of foreigners working with some locals are pouring money to money changers and distort the exchange rate, these unscrupulous businesses then externalise the foreign currency to their home countries, we have their names and soon we are going to send our teams to checkmate them and end this madness.
Businesses should shape up or ship out and allow humane organisations to set base in the country. The economy is going through a revival phase but that should never be punitive to the consumer.
In a way, the price madness is yet another ploy to trigger demonstrations and we are aware of the actors behind these nefarious exercises.
Soon we are going to dispatch our monitors to check on compliance with our laws on the part of the companies and also call upon relevant authorities to crack the whip and break monopolies and cartels that are now holding the nation to ransom.
While we embrace austerity for prosperity and have tightened our belts to adjust to the situation which requires us to do so, we would the ministries of Finance and Industry to be sensitive to the plight of the masses and ensure that there is a balance between theory and practice.
Soon we are going to call for the total boycott of certain shops that are causing artificial shortages so as to justify price increases and if that route fails we will mobilise to shut down such enterprises that thrive on unjustified and terrorist actions.
By Own Correspondent- On Monday the Zanu PF Youth League management committee met at the Revolutionary Party Headquarters and discussed a number of issues, notably the state of the economy, business arbitrage, and the threat posed by regime change purveyors under the guise of opposition.
Of major concern to us as the Vanguard of the governing party is the economic sabotage that businesses are practising, needlessly profiteering at the expense of the broad masses and increasing prices willy-nilly.
The price increases are unjustified and speculative and uncalled for. We hope that business will do the right thing and stop the madness before we descend on errant companies that are behaving like the terrorists, hurting the economy and blunting the country’s economic revival efforts.
We resolved, at our management committee meeting, that we need to cleanse the country of all systems that are in the habit of sucking our people and deal decisively with mafia business organisations that are syphoning and mopping foreign currency.
The Zanu PF Youth League is well aware that there is a cartel of foreigners working with some locals are pouring money to money changers and distort the exchange rate, these unscrupulous businesses then externalise the foreign currency to their home countries, we have their names and soon we are going to send our teams to checkmate them and end this madness.
Businesses should shape up or ship out and allow humane organisations to set base in the country. The economy is going through a revival phase but that should never be punitive to the consumer.
In a way, the price madness is yet another ploy to trigger demonstrations and we are aware of the actors behind these nefarious exercises.
Soon we are going to dispatch our monitors to check on compliance with our laws on the part of the companies and also call upon relevant authorities to crack the whip and break monopolies and cartels that are now holding the nation to ransom.
While we embrace austerity for prosperity and have tightened our belts to adjust to the situation which requires us to do so, we would the ministries of Finance and Industry to be sensitive to the plight of the masses and ensure that there is a balance between theory and practice.
Soon we are going to call for the total boycott of certain shops that are causing artificial shortages so as to justify price increases and if that route fails we will mobilise to shut down such enterprises that thrive on unjustified and terrorist actions
The 47-year-old was found guilty of breaching the Bail Act last month after his arrest at the Ecuadorian Embassy.
He took refuge in the London embassy in 2012 to avoid extradition to Sweden over sexual assault allegations, which he has denied.
In a letter read to the court, Assange said he had found himself “struggling with difficult circumstances”.
He apologised to those who “consider I’ve disrespected them”, a packed Southwark Crown Court heard.
“I did what I thought at the time was the best or perhaps the only thing that I could have done,” he said.
In sentencing him, Judge Deborah Taylor told Assange it was difficult to envisage a more serious example of the offence.
“By hiding in the embassy you deliberately put yourself out of reach, while remaining in the UK,” she said.
In mitigation, Mark Summers QC had said his client was “gripped” by fears of rendition to the US over the years because of his work with whistle-blowing website Wikileaks.
“As threats rained down on him from America, they overshadowed everything,” he said.
As Assange was taken down to the cells, he raised a fist in defiance to his supporters in the public gallery behind him.
They raised their fists in solidarity and directed shouts of “shame on you” towards the court.
Assange now faces US federal conspiracy charges related to one of the largest leaks of government secrets.
The UK will decide whether to extradite Assange to the US in response to allegations that he conspired with former US intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning to download classified databases.
He faces up to five years in a US prison if convicted.
Wikileaks has published thousands of classified documents covering everything from the film industry to national security and war.
Assange was dramatically arrested by UK police on 11 April after Ecuador abruptly withdrew its asylum.
At a court hearing that same day, he was remanded in custody and called a “narcissist who cannot get beyond his own selfish interest” by district judge Michael Snow.
Days later, Swedish prosecutors said they were considering reopening the investigation into rape and sexual assault allegations against him.
At the time, Assange said he had had entirely consensual sex with two women while on a trip to Stockholm to give a lecture.
Prosecutors dropped the rape investigation in 2017 because they were unable to formally notify him of allegations while he was staying in the embassy.
Two other charges of molestation and unlawful coercion had to be dropped in 2015 because time had run out.
More than 70 UK MPs and peers have signed a letter urging Home Secretary Sajid Javid to ensure Assange faces authorities in Sweden if they want his extradition. BBC News
BY EMMERSON MNANGAGWA – FULL TEXT: Today we recognise the role played by our workers in our economy and society. Our workers are an integral cog as we restructure, reform and rebuild our economy, and we appreciate the contributions, hard work and sacrifices that you continue to make.
We are well aware of the challenges faced by the labour sector. We are committed to increasing the number of people in employment and to ensuring the dignity of all workers, through restoring your purchasing power, improving our transport system, housing delivery, and clean water, sanitation and energy provision.
Our freedom and independence was won through hard work, unity and sacrifice. Let us all therefore celebrate this 2019 Workers Day with renewed determination, solidarity and hope. With unity and hard work, we shall realise our goals.
A non-league footballer plunged a stadium into darkness after he was sent off – because he thought the switch was for the showers.
Julius Muraga was given his marching orders in the 73rd minute of Kidlington Development’s Hellenic League Division One West clash with Cheltenham Saracans.
But moments after Muraga walked off the pitch the whole ground suspiciously suffered a blackout.
The travelling player held his hands up at the gaffe but insisted it wasn’t a case of maliciously attempting to abandon the match at the DN Fire Stadium.
The DN Fire Stadium, home of Cheltenham Saracens, was plunged into darkness
Muraga had reached the dressing rooms and flicked a switch to get a head start in the showers, but instead he had hit the power on the floodlights.
Muraga said: “After entering the changing rooms, I inadvertently turned off the floodlights thinking I was turning on the showers.”
The game was delayed for about five minutes before Saracans completed their 3-1 victory – which had seen Kai Mahon, Ryan Smith, Sean McKeon all score for the hosts, with Jimmy Deabill netting for the visitors.
Julius Muraga was sent off before his blunderThe DN Fire Stadium was plunged into darkness
Nick Duval, chairman of the Kidlington club’s trustees, said: “It was a genuine mistake. Julius hasn’t got a malicious bone in his body. He is a smashing lad.
“It’s just bizarre that they put the switch for the floodlights in the opposition changing rooms.”
The game re-started after five minutes
A spokesman for the club added: “As far as we can see the player simply ‘switched off’.”
The result clinched second place in the sixth tier for Saracans – who two years ago finished the season with a goal difference of -105.
They will now go head-to-head with Easington Sports for promotion.
Cabinet yesterday passed principles on the proposed amendments to the Guardianship of Minors Act, 2014 to align it to the new Constitution. The new law will confer equal rights on mothers and fathers. The current law favours mothers in regard to the custody of children.
— Ministry of Information, Publicity & Broadcasting (@InfoMinZW) May 1, 2019
By Own Correspondent- Harare residents have threatened to sue Harare City Council for disconnecting water on properties of defaulters.
In an interview with a local publication, Community Water Alliance programmes manager Hardlife Mudzingwa said that the provision of potable water is a human right. He said:
Our legal argument is based on Sections 44, 46(1) (c) and 86 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment No. 20 of 2013.
Section 44 compels government at every level to among other obligations, respect the human right to water.
Respecting the human right to water means that where there is a supply of potable water, there must be limited interference in the enjoyment of that right.
Respecting the human right to water is of immediate effect and it is not subjected to the availability of resources.
Disconnecting water is a retrogressive measure and goes against Section 77 requirement of progressive realisation of the human right to water.
Section 46(1)(c) compels Zimbabwe, when interpreting human rights, to take into account international law, treaties and conventions to which Zimbabwe is a party.
Zimbabwe is a signatory to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR).
General Comment 15 entitles everyone to available, accessible, sufficient, acceptable and quality potable water.
This threat of a lawsuit comes at a time when water availability in the city can no longer be taken for granted. Residents in some suburbs have gone for weeks without the precious liquid.-DailyNews
A Young Nigerian woman, Zainab Aliyu who was arrested in Saudi Arabia in December 2018, over drug trafficking has been found to be innocent.
Zainab was found to be a victim of an Airport syndicate group that plant hard drugs in the bags and even go as far as tagging an unsuspecting traveller’s name and particulars to a bag with drugs.
The group was arrested after investigations were carried out, and their WhatsApp messages gave them away.
The suspects Sani Suleiman, Alhaji Gabari, and Umar Sanda and their Whatsapp conversation on this numbers 080645499791, 08036066448, gave them away. Airport officials led by Mr Adetunji who approached Zainab about her bag has been arrested.
Those fingered in the confession are Idris Umar, Sanni Suleiman, Nuhu Adamu, Rhoda Adetunji, Udosen Henry and Sanni Hamisu.
However, the lawmaker representing Kaduna Ventral at the Senate, Shehu Sani has advised the parents of the victim to send a petition to the National Assembly, stating her innocence to enable NASS to move a move to action for her case.
If the Parents o.f Zainab Habibu Aliyu, the Nigerian girl in detention, in Saudi Arabia can immediately send a petition to NASS stating her case and innocence, we can move action to highlight her case and demand for urgent action to secure her freedom, He wrote via Twitter on Monday morning.
MDC Midlands province has been ordered by the party’s national organising committee to re-run district congresses where the electoral process was marred by irregularities.
Takavafira Zhou, the MDC Midlands provincial spokesperson confirmed the development and said the date for the new rounds of congresses in the four districts would be announced soon.
The affected districts are Gokwe-Kabuyuni, Chiwundura, Kwekwe and Chirumanzu South.
“Teams led by the party’s organising department have been set up to complete the task, and the respective constituencies would be officially notified of the dates,” he said.
The major irregularity that marred the district congresses was participation and voting of in elligible delegates.
In some cases, candidates wishing to be voted into power bussed people who were not in the party structures to vote in the congresses. Sporadic cases of violence were also recorded due to jostling for posts between rival camps.
Zhou also indicated that the provincial executive meeting held on Sunday had begun the process of appointing portfolio secretaries from the province’s 28 constituencies in order to ensure fair representation in the leadership.
The process started after the provincial executive resolved to incorporate at least three party cadres from each constituency into the main wing.
“Emphasis was also put on consistent and persistent service in the party, gender equity, alliance integration and post-provincial congress integration.
“All in all, 20 constituencies were dealt with and the remaining eight could not be worked on because of failure to submit CVs of preferred cadres seconded to be part of the provincial executive,” said Zhou.
The Midlands province will this year host the MDC’s fifth elective congress from May 24 to 26 in the provincial capital, Gweru.
Party president Nelson Chamisa will safely secure his post after being nominated by all the 13 provinces.
The late MDC founder, Morgan Tsvangirai’s memorial was on the agenda at the Sunday meeting and Zhou urged MPs and Senators to assist supporters with transport to Buhera, where the event is set to be held this Saturday.
By Own Correspondent- President Emmerson Mnangagwa has met members of the Presidential Advisory Council (PAC), with discussions on how to move the country forward topping the agenda.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, the President said Government and the PAC members were concerned about challenges facing the nation.
“The meeting has been extremely educative on both sides, sharing of information about the challenges facing our country,” he said. “We are happy that all of us are concerned about our country and are putting our heads together to make sure we move our country forward as a people.”
President Mnangagwa was confident that once the Tripartite Negotiating Forum (TNF) is signed into an Act, in due course, it would move the country forward.
“This is what will create the Zimbabwe we want,” he said. PAC spokesperson Mr Joe Mutizwa said they discussed key issues affecting the country.
“We are hopeful, given the exchanges we had this afternoon,” he said. “We will see certain actions being taken in the interests of the country.”
President Mnangagwa early this year established the 26-member PAC to advise and assist him in formulating key economic policies and strategies that advance Vision 2030.
Vision 2030 entails making Zimbabwe an upper middle-income country with gross national income (GNI) per capita of between $3 896 and $12 055, according to the World Bank’s technical calculations, implying high standards of living for citizens.
The advisory council comprises experts and leaders drawn from diverse sectors like business, health and social protection, agriculture, governance and human rights, faith-based organisations, tourism, education, minorities, ICT, civic society, communication and media management.
Yesterday’s meeting was also attended by the two Vice Presidents Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi, Cabinet ministers, including Minister of Finance and Economic Development Professor Mthuli Ncube and RBZ Governor Dr John Mangudya, among other top-ranking Government officials.-StateMedia
By Own Correspondent- RioZim announced that its US$2 billion Sengwa Thermal Power Station project in Gokwe is expected to start within the next 12 months.
In a statement which accompanied the listed mining group’s audited financial results for the year ended December 31, 2018, RioZim chairman Lovemore Chihota said:
“The group made strides in the Sengwa Power Station Project, which entails the development of a 2 800 megawatt power station in phases of 700MW each.
As the project gained significant traction during the year under review, the company has now set ambitious targets for 2019, which will culminate in the project kick off in the next 12 months.
In this regard, the group has lined up strategic initiatives, which if successfully implemented will significantly improve the group’s fortunes.
The major projects include the construction of the BIOX plant at Cam & Motor Mine and the Sengwa Power Station Project.”-StateMedia
Botswana’s President Seretse Ian Khama (L) shakes hands with his vice-president Mokgweetsi Masisi during a rally in his village Serowe on March 27, 2018, before officially stepping down on March 31 and handing power to his vice-president on April 1.
Analysis|Will the increasingly ugly and public spat between Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi and his predecessor Ian Khama remain just a shoving match? Or could it rock the ruling Democratic Party and even jeopardise the stability of Africa’s hitherto most stable country?
Relations between the former bosom buddies have plummeted since Masisi, previously Khama’s education minister and deputy, took over as president last April. Masisi, who surprisingly admits to having been a ‘bootlicker’ back then, dutifully accepted everything Khama said or did when he was in his cabinet.
He charmed Khama into appointing him deputy president, lining him up for the top job. But the moment he got it, he began asserting himself, reversing a raft of Khama decisions and appointments. Masisi also restricted Khama’s perks and privileges, including reportedly curbing the former president’s proclivity to commandeer and fly official aircraft whenever he wanted to.
Masisi scrapped Botswana’s complete hunting ban and is now allowing controlled culling of its huge elephant population. This policy was dear to the heart of the arch-conservationist Khama. Masisi has also relaxed some of the strict liquor laws that Khama imposed.
President Masisi reversed many Khama decisions and appointments, and restricted Khama’s perks
Masisi has made several other changes that Khama doesn’t like. Khama was never very fond of China and publicly berated it for the poor quality of its workmanship in a coal-fired power station it built in Botswana. He also defied Beijing’s ultra-sensitivities around granting any recognition at all to the Dalai Lama, Tibet’s spiritual leader.
Khama was en route to meeting the Buddhist patriarch in India last weekend when he spoke to City Press at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport. He said Masisi’s administration didn’t support his visit because it had taken a different tack on China, doing China’s bidding and agreeing to have no contact with those, like the Dalai Lama, whom Beijing did not like.
Masisi’s administration also seems to have changed tack on Zimbabwe. Where Khama stood out in the Southern African Development Community by openly criticising former president Robert Mugabe, Masisi seems to be toeing the regional line by providing political and even financial support to Mugabe’s successor Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Masisi has also removed officials close to Khama. He demoted his brother Tshekedi Khama from the important tourism portfolio to youth and sports. University of Botswana political scientist Leonard Sesa says Ian Khama had hoped that Masisi would repay his loyalty by promoting his brother to deputy president. Masisi also fired and arrested Khama’s intelligence chief Isaac Kgosi and replaced him with Peter Magosi – whom Khama had once fired.
Sesa, who last April opined that Khama had complete trust in Masisi, says there is now a ‘total rift’ between the two men. So much so that Khama has openly backed his former foreign minister Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi to challenge Masisi for the ruling Botswana Democratic Party’s presidential nomination for the October elections. The BDP has governed since independence and it will be the first time that a sitting national president will be challenged for the party’s nomination.
Khama has backed his former foreign minister to challenge Masisi for the BDP’s presidential nomination
This represents a complete shift from the BDP tradition of carefully choreographing presidential successions. The president has always resigned some 18 months before elections, handing over to his deputy, who thereby learns the ropes – and gains the advantage of incumbency over presidential rivals. The system has been sharply criticised for being less than fully democratic. Khama has now upset that tradition with unpredictable consequences for the BDP and the country.
Khama told City Press that Masisi’s administration was threatening to suspend several councillors who had attended a meeting in his home village – which is also Venson-Moitoi’s home village – to discuss negative developments in Botswana. Khama said many of the councillors threatened with suspension were also delegates to the BDP’s elective conference in April and supporters of Venson-Moitoi. He suspected the suspensions were a stratagem to decrease the votes in her favour.
If the councillors were suspended, this could split the BDP, he warned. This could in turn sabotage the party’s chances of winning a majority in Parliament forcing it, at the least, to go into a coalition with other parties to retain power.
Sesa shares Khama’s view that the BDP could split after the elective conference. Venson-Moitoi could lead a breakaway faction to form a new party if she loses the BDP nomination, which seems likely. Sesa disagrees, though, with Khama’s prediction that this split would cost the BDP victory in the October elections. He believes the opposition in Botswana is so divided that it will still not prevail.
Botswana’s ruling party has steadily lost support over the years, dropping to 53% in 2014
Nonetheless that victory cannot be guaranteed when one considers that the BDP has been steadily losing support over the years, dropping to 53% in the 2014 general elections. It seems now that only a weak opposition and a happy distribution of the vote in a first-past-the-post constituency system could save the BDP.
The extent of Khama’s animosity towards Masisi was evident in the City Press interview where he accused Masisi of dragging Botswana backwards and even threatened to seek international intervention, if necessary, to ‘return Botswana to stability’. What exactly constituted the instability, he did not elaborate on. Khama himself seems largely responsible for such instability.
Many suspect though that the large pride and ego of Khama – the son of independent Botswana’s first president Sir Seretse Khama and a member of the country’s aristocracy – has been hurt by what he sees as his successor’s dismantling of his legacy, that he will not give up the fight.
The ramifications for Botswana are uncertain. This is a country renowned as Africa’s most stable. Much of that stability is owed, rightly or wrongly, to the BDP’s steady hand on the tiller. Maybe that’s also been a rather dead hand. Certainly the BDP has not addressed some critical existential questions, like where will the money come from when the diamonds are all gone.
So maybe, after half a century of rule by one party, Botswana needs new political blood. But there are no obvious opposition leaders waiting in the wings. And certainly none with any bright ideas about tackling the country’s major challenges. And let us not forget that political stability is a commodity rarer and more precious than diamonds on this continent.
By Own Correspondent- MDC president Nelson Chamisa said that Workers’ Day to Zimbabweans has little meaning as many are either out of work or without work.
Chamisa said this in a post on microblogging site, Twitter.
He wrote:
“Labour day in Zimbabwe. Many are either out of work or without work, almost hopeless and jobless. Only Change can make things happen. Today is the day dedicated to all those who make efforts and never give up. Workers United will never be defeated. I wish I could say happy Workers’ day!”
The 1st of May is the day set aside for celebrating workers globally. In Zimbabwe, May Day has become hollow and meaningless as some sources estimate that about 90 per cent of adults is unemployed.
The MDC was formed as a labour-backed political party in 1999. At formation, most of the leaders had trade union backgrounds among them, founding president Morgan Tsvangirai and vice president Gibson Sibanda.
By Own Correspondent- A 16 year old Four pupil at St Bernards High School in Bulawayo’s Old Pumula suburb was found hanging at home in Pumula North on Monday in a suspected case of suicide.
Thembelihle Gombora allegedly hanged herself from the roof trusses of the family’s bedroom in the evening.
She lived with her grandmother as her parents work in South Africa. Before the alleged suicide on Monday evening, Thembelihle had not slept at home on Saturday and Sunday, only coming back in the morning on the day she killed herself.
It appears she was reprimanded and decided to commit suicide after sending WhatsApp messages to her friends. Acting Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Abednico Ncube confirmed the incident.
“I can confirm that we are investigating a case of sudden death where a pupil from St Bernards High School allegedly hanged herself,” he said.
A Chronicle news crew visited the pupil’s family home and family members said they were still in shock and devastated by the pupil’s death.
Her aunt who declined to be named said she had not shown any signs of depression.
She, however, suggested that the deceased had been a troublesome child.
“Thembelihle was staying with her grandmother and other children here and we always got reports of her misbehaving such that gogo always complained about it. I was shocked to hear of her death because, except her misbehaving, she had not shown any signs of depression suggesting she could take her life,” she said.
The aunt said the pupil did not sleep home on Saturday and Sunday, only to come on Monday in the morning and hanged herself in the evening.
“She was in the company of bad friends and she had strange habits considering her age. On the day she killed herself, her grandmother had told her to prepare some meat on the stove.
“All she did was to burn the meat and after that, she poured a lot of water and closed the pot to hang herself in the bedroom,” she said.
The aunt said before locking herself in the house to commit suicide, she was overheard sending WhatsApp voice messages to her friends.
She said the deceased did not leave any note except the WhatsApp messages, which they have not listened to yet because the phone was taken by the police.
“She left a 21-minute voice note on WhatsApp but we haven’t listened to it because the cell phone switched off and was taken by the police. We were surprised to hear her talking on her phone because we did not know that she had a cellphone,” she said.
Thembelihle’s aunt said the deceased used a belt to hang herself and when her grandmother found her hanging, she cut it off thinking that she was still alive.
She said Thembelihle’s body was taken to the United Bulawayo Hospitals for postmortem.
The aunt said they are not yet sure about funeral arrangements as they need to liaise with her parents who are still in South Africa.
“Her father called saying he will come today but the mother is still sorting out some things,” she said.
By Own Correspondent- The Association of Healthcare Funders of Zimbabwe (AHFoZ) has expressed concern over plans by medical aid societies to hike tariffs by up to 400 per cent.
Medical aid societies increased fees by between 30 and 40 per cent just 3 months ago.
AHFoZ released a statement on Tuesday which reads in part:
“A number of the providers have also approached the association to submit requests for additional or new increases to the current tariffs for various reasons. The increases range between 50 per cent and 400 per cent.
This follows soon after the recent upward review by 40 per cent and 30 per cent. Regrettably, the contributing medical aid members and employer groups had to bear this increase.
Judging from member feedback, another round of contribution increases so soon would be unaffordable for medical aid members, employer groups and health funders.
The association would like to urge all medical aid members to carefully consider any alternative options that may be available with the assistance of their health funders when faced with difficulties in accessing services.
Medical aid subscribers are being asked to pay top-up fees whenever they visit doctors notwithstanding the latest tariff hike.”-StateMedia
President Mnangagwa has implored employers to review salaries and conditions of service for their workers to improve their living standards.
Addressing the nation on the eve of 2019 Workers’ Day celebrations last night, the President paid tribute to workers for their role in building the national economy and sustaining families.
Government, he said, was aware of the plight of the workers and challenged employers to look into the issue of remuneration.
“My Government is fully aware of the challenges facing the labour sector,” he said.
“As we continue on the path of development and progress, I challenge employers to use this day as an opportunity to reflect and evaluate the welfare, remuneration, conditions of service, safety and state of workers, among other issues.”
President Mnangagwa saluted workers for their contribution in building the nation, saying they were an essential component in Government’s drive towards the attainment of Vision 2030.
“You are a sector that we are giving due attention in the Second Republic,” he said. “We know that with you as partners, we will realise the modernisation, industrialisation, growth and prosperity of our economy.”
President Mnangagwa reiterated Government’s commitment to restore the purchasing power of workers.
In addition, the President said his administration was committed to restore the decency and dignity of all workers.
He expressed disquiet over the counter-productive machinations by irresponsible and unpatriotic members of industry and businesses who continue to frustrate and undermine the economic, modernisation and industrialisation agenda.
“The wanton, unjustified increases in prices are unpalatable and may point to some other sinister motives,” said President Mnangagwa. “This conduct must stop forthwith. My Government will not stand by and leave workers and the generality of our people at the mercy of a small group with rent seeking and profiteering tendencies.”
Jane Mlambo|Opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) has blasted the ruling Zanu PF for seeking to eliminate its enemies through pushing everyone outside of the constitutional bounds, a trap the Nelson Chamisa led movement said they will not fall into.
Addressing journalists at the party headquarters yesterday, party spokesperson Jacob Mafume called for an urgent solution to the economic crisis as well as opening dialogue avenues with the opposition.
“They actually want the country to degenerate into chaos so that they can eliminate everyone they perceive an enemy, they are pushing everyone outside of bounds of the constitution,”
Jane Mlambo| The opposition MDC has refuted claims by deputy information minister Energy Mutodi that its councillor in Domboshava sold a mountain to a Chinese firm.
Addressing journalists in Harare yesterday, party spokesperson Jacob Mafume said no mining activity can take place without a license from the ministry of mines hence the claims that an MDC councillor is the culprit in the Domboshava eviction case was unfounded.
“We want to respond to unfounded allegations that an MDC councillor sold a mountain to a Chinese firm. The allegations are unfounded and baseless.
“No mining can take place e without a license from the Ministry of Mines, allocation of mining areas has never been in the hands of a councillor.
“Energy Mutodi is the centre of the confusion and we all know that Zanu PF is always at the centre of illegal eviction of residents for profit and patronage,” said Mafume.
By Pupurayi Togarepi|ON Monday the Zanu PF Youth League management committee met at the Revolutionary Party Headquarters and discussed a number of issues, notably the state of the economy, business arbitrage, and the threat posed by regime change purveyors under the guise of opposition.
Of major concern to us as the Vanguard of the governing party is the economic sabotage that businesses are practising, needlessly profiteering at the expense of the broad masses and increasing prices willy-nilly.
The price increases are unjustified and speculative and uncalled for. We hope that business will do the right thing and stop the madness before we descend on errant companies that are behaving like the terrorists, hurting the economy and blunting the country’s economic revival efforts.
We resolved, at our management committee meeting, that we need to cleanse the country of all systems that are in the habit of sucking our people and deal decisively with mafia business organisations that are syphoning and mopping foreign currency.
The Zanu PF Youth League is well aware that there is a cartel of foreigners working with some locals are pouring money to money changers and distort the exchange rate, these unscrupulous businesses then externalise the foreign currency to their home countries, we have their names and soon we are going to send our teams to checkmate them and end this madness.
Businesses should shape up or ship out and allow humane organisations to set base in the country. The economy is going through a revival phase but that should never be punitive to the consumer.
In a way, the price madness is yet another ploy to trigger demonstrations and we are aware of the actors behind these nefarious exercises.
Soon we are going to dispatch our monitors to check on compliance with our laws on the part of the companies and also call upon relevant authorities to crack the whip and break monopolies and cartels that are now holding the nation to ransom.
While we embrace austerity for prosperity and have tightened our belts to adjust to the situation which requires us to do so, we would the ministries of Finance and Industry to be sensitive to the plight of the masses and ensure that there is a balance between theory and practice.
Soon we are going to call for the total boycott of certain shops that are causing artificial shortages so as to justify price increases and if that route fails we will mobilise to shut down such enterprises that thrive on unjustified and terrorist actions.
A Mutare man, who was being accused of raping his seven-year-old daughter, was yesterday acquitted by Rusape regional magistrate Livingstone Chipadze after the State failed to prove a prima facie case against him.
Chipadze told the court yesterday that the mother of the complainant fabricated the rape charges and coxed her daughter into filing trumped-up rape charges after their relationship had broken down.
He said there was evidence that the seven-year-old complainant’s parents were going through serious matrimonial problems.
Chipadze said the complainant’s mother tried to manipulate a maid by increasing her pay to falsely testify in court against the man.
The accused was represented by prominent Mutare lawyer Chris Ndlovu.
The court noted that the complainant was a clearly coached witness and her evidence was rehearsed.
“The complainant’s mother showed the court that she is clearly a bitter person against the accused and in court did not dispute that her own sister had at one time used or raised false allegations of rape against her husband,” the magistrate said.
The complainant’s mother was also discredited by the maid as an alcoholic and an individual who had attempted to manipulate her to falsely testify against the accused.
In the application for discharge at the close of State case, the accused lawyer Ndlovu said the woman attempted to sway the maid, who testified in the matter, to lie to the police that she had heard the complainant screaming in the bedroom.
“She, the complaint’s mother had promised a pay increase of $30 if she falsely testified against the accused, such an unstable and manipulative mother and is capable of doing anything, faced with the prospect of losing custody of the children, she concocted the allegations,” he said.
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has ordered a Chinese company to stop its planned quarry mining activities in Domboshava, following an outcry by over 20 000 villagers who had already been ordered to vacate the area and pave way for mining operations.
Information deputy minister and local MP, Energy Mutodi confirmed the development yesterday, saying Mnangagwa had declared the area a tourism resort, where mining activities were prohibited.
“President Emmerson Mnangagwa has come to the rescue of Domboshava villagers, who were facing eviction by a Chinese quarry mining firm, Aihua Jianye. The President has ordered that the firm stops mining activities in the area known for its rock art and as a tourist attraction,” Mutodi said.
The Chinese company was reportedly planning to evict 20 000 people from their land after it was granted mining rights to extract quarry stones from a hill in the area.
On Saturday, Mutodi met with the affected villagers and they resolved to resist the order and accused an MDC councillor identified as Tapiwa Murima and the district administrator, Prisca Dube of illegally allowing the Chinese firm to mine at Garimo Hill.
Aihua Jianye sought to mine quarry near Mverechena Shopping Centre and this would have seen people who are located within the five-kilometre radius being removed to create space for the project.
This comes as communities in Mutoko in Mashonaland East province and other parts of the country where mining operations take place often cry foul over the manner in which investors treat locals and the environment without compensation.
In Mutoko, where there is heavy mining of black granite, villagers are said to be impoverished with no jobs and their environment ravaged, yet the mining firms pocket huge profits.
According to the Environmental Management Act, before a mining operation commences, it has to get an environmental impact assessment (EIA) certificate which details how nature and its inhabitants would be protected by the firm.
The Domboshava villagers are questioning how the firm got the licence and right to establish the concern without an EIA certificate.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has implored employers to review salaries and conditions of service for their workers to improve their living standards.
Addressing the nation on the eve of the 2019 Workers Day Celebrations last night, President Mnangagwa paid tribute to the workers for their role in building the national economy and sustaining families.
Government, he said, was aware of the plight of the workers and challenged employers to look into the workers’ remuneration.
“My Government is fully aware of the challenges facing the labour sector,” he said.
“As we continue on the path of development and progress, I challenge employers to use this day as an opportunity to reflect and evaluate the welfare, remuneration, conditions of service, safety and state of workers, among other issues.”
President Mnangagwa saluted the workers for their contribution in building the nation, saying they were an essential component in Government’s drive towards the attainment of vision 2030.
“You are a sector that we are giving due attention in the Second Republic,” he said.
“We know that with you as partners, we will realise the modernisation, industrialisation, growth and prosperity of our economy.”
President Mnangagwa reiterated Government’s commitment to restore the purchasing power of workers.
In addition, the President said his administration was committed to restore the decency and dignity of all workers.
He expressed disquiet over the counter-productive machinations by irresponsible and unpatriotic members of industry and businesses who continue to frustrate and undermine the economic, modernisation and industrialisation agenda.
“The wanton, unjustified increases in prices are unpalatable and may point to some other sinister motives,” said President Mnangagwa.
“This conduct must stop forthwith. My Government will not stand by and leave workers and the generality of our people at the mercy of a small group with rent seeking and profiteering tendencies.”
President Mnangagwa assured workers that Government would continue to protect them and to be the guarantor to their constitutionally enshrined rights.
He said the transport system should be viable, while housing delivery, clean water, sanitation and energy should also be adequate and affordable.
President Mnangagwa recently unveiled a fleet of ZUPCO buses which will ease the transport costs in both urban and rural areas.
“The comprehensive housing delivery programme and the smart cities concept will see better living conditions for our workers,” he said.
Through the ease of doing business reforms, President Mnangagwa said Government would continue to encourage and facilitate more exports across all sectors, which should translate to improved business performance and ultimately better conditions of service for the workers.
By Own Correspondent- Seed Co has issued a stern warning to farmers encouraging them to be wary of buying fake seed, which results in below average yields.
Fake maize seeds are mostly sold on the streets and by uncertified dealers. This was said by Seed Co southern region manager, Charles Munyoro.
He said:
“There has been a high influx of fake seeds in the market, which is being sold by some unscrupulous individuals.
These fake seeds usually result in low yields most of the time. Most fake seeds have a poor germination rate and by buying such seeds, farmers risk making losses.
As farmers prepare for the winter farming season, we urge them to desist from buying seeds from unregistered and uncertified dealers. There are a lot of registered seed processors in the country and farmers are encouraged to make use of them.
Seed Co has been promoting higher maize yields by farmers through its Eleven Tonne Plus Club Promotion.
In 2018 over 50 farmers from the Southern region entered the promotion and all the farmers achieved between 11 and 22 tonnes of maize per hectare.-StateMedia
Own Correspondent| In what could be a first, President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially welcomed the international delegates competing in Mr Gay World 2019 in Cape Town.
The 24 finalists arrived in South Africa this week and began a series of challenges and engagements leading up to the grand finale on Saturday when the winner will be announced.
“On behalf of all South Africans, I wish to extend a warm welcome to delegates who have arrived in South Africa for the 2019 Mr Gay World event,” tweeted Ramaphosa. “South Africa is pleased to host Mr Gay World delegates during #FreedomMonth.”
On behalf of all South Africans, I wish to extend a warm welcome to delegates who have arrived in South Africa for the 2019 Mr Gay World event. South Africa is pleased to host Mr Gay World delegates during #FreedomMonth. pic.twitter.com/QN991QbBo9
He later posted a second tweet, writing: “As we celebrate the freedoms afforded to all people in South Africa and affirm the democratic values of human dignity, equality & freedom enshrined in our Constitution, I wish Mr Gay World delegates well and I hope you enjoy your visit to the most beautiful places in the world.”
As we celebrate the freedoms afforded to all people in South Africa and affirm the democratic values of human dignity, equality & freedom enshrined in our Constitution, I wish Mr Gay World delegates well and I hope you enjoy your visit to the most beautiful places in the world.
John-Louis O’Neil, Vice-President of Mr Gay World, said that he was delighted by the president’s backing of the event and its contestants.
“We are absolutely honoured and the delegates are inspired by his message of love and support, especially in today’s world where it’s hard to find leaders who encourage the LGBTQA+ community,” said O’Neil.
Ramaphosa has often spoken out in support of LGBTQ+ equality. In October last year, he stated that the “violation of the rights and equal worth of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex people demeans our common humanity as South Africans.”
This year’s Mr Gay World contest features three delegates from Africa: South Africa’s Chris Emanuel, Botswana’s Oratile Victor Phofhedi and Namibia’s Rivelino Ronald Reinecke.
The other delegates hail from Europe, Asia, North America, South and Central America and Oceania. India (Suresh Ramdas) will for the first time take part as a free nation after homosexuality was decriminalised in September last year.
Mr Gay World 2019 was initially set to be held in Hong Kong, but it was moved to Cape Town due to a clampdown by the Chinese authorities on LGBTQ affirming events and campaigns.
HIGHLANDERS descended into chaos when two executive committee members were suspended for voting against the renewal of club chief executive officer Nhlanhla Dube’s contract, which ended yesterday.
Dube took over from veteran administrator Ndumiso Gumede on a two-year contract and it had appeared as a foregone conclusion that his tenure would be extended, but the executive thought otherwise.
This was apparently against the advice of the Highlanders’ board, which wanted Dube’s mandate renewed.
As a result vice-chairman Modern Ngwenya and secretary-general Israel Moyo were yesterday suspended by the board for allegedly refusing to have Dube’s contract extended.
“We hire and fire, that is part of our mandate as an executive and I can tell you that Dube’s contract has not been renewed.
“We don’t have anyone to replace him yet, but he is no longer the Highlanders head of secretariat and please note, he was not fired, his contract was simply not renewed because we largely felt our expectations of him were not met,” said a member of the executive, who did not want to be named.
The decision not to renew Dube’s contract, however, stunned the board, which summoned club chairman Kenneth Mhlophe to an impromptu meeting yesterday to demand answers.
“The constitution is very clear and if the board feels Dube deserves another chance they should tell us on what basis, but what they are doing now is really interfering with the duties of the executive.
“The human resources committee can recommend, but it does not mean that recommendation can be taken on board. The executive was chosen by the people to run the affairs of the club, not the board,” said another executive committee member.
Chronicle Sport can reveal that Mhlophe was roasted by the board for more than three hours as the “elders” demanded answers on why Dube’s contract was not renewed in accordance with their recommendation.
Efforts to get an official comment from board chairman Luke Mnkandla or board secretary Matthew Sibindi were unsuccessful as their mobile phones were not reachable.
One of the suspended executive committee members, however, said he was shocked by the decision.
“Look, Nhlanhla reports to the executive and the assessment marks carried out by an independent consultant gave him 55 percent when we wanted at least 75 percent and surely that means he did not meet our expectations. There are a lot of wrongs that were happening, including creating a prison atmosphere in the office, disrespecting the executive, except the chairman, and fighting with supporters, and we felt that was unbecoming of a chief executive officer.
“Daggers are drawn now and we will see who is going to win,” fumed the suspended executive committee member.
He said they found it absurd that their voting choices were revealed and wondered to whose benefit.
According to sources, some members of the executive wanted to pass a vote of no confidence in club chairman Mhlophe for alleged dereliction of duty.
THOUSANDS of cancer patients in Zimbabwe are at risk as the country has no functional radiotherapy machine.
The five at the two cancer units in the country located at Mpilo Central and Parirenyatwa hospitals have been down for some months now.
Mpilo last offered radiotherapy in November last year which forced patients to travel to Harare.
However one of the three working machines in Harare has since broken down leaving patients stranded.
Radiotherapy treatment uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumours and it also damages the DNA within cancer cells.
Officials said repairs will cost US$63 000 for the machine at Mpilo while the one at Parirenyatwa needs US$60 000.
The Minister of Health and Child Care Dr Obadiah Moyo could not be reached for comment but last week during a tour at Mpilo, he said all was in place to restore the service.
“We are happy that there is progress to install the uninterrupted power supply batteries as a long term solution to the problem because most of these breakdowns are due to power cuts. The contractors said they would not do anything until the installation and there is progress towards the reintroduction of radiotherapy,” said Dr Moyo.
The Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights (ZADHR) called on the Ministry to urgently attend to the breakdown of radiotherapy machines at Parirenyatwa and Mpilo hospitals.
In a statement, the ZADHR said the breakdowns were causing great danger to cancer patients countrywide.
“ZADHR is reliably informed that the radiotherapy machines have been out of service for almost a month posing a great danger to cancer patients countrywide. The two radiotherapy centres are the only government facilities that offer such specialist oncology services in the country although the Mpilo hospital machines are rarely functional,” read the statement.
ZADHR said that cancer patients are being denied their right to healthcare as provided by the Constitution of Zimbabwe through section 76.
“Clinically, delays or interruptions in accessing radiotherapy sessions may result in tumour cell repopulation and can also require that restaging of the tumours be done when normal service resumes. This is both costly to the health system as a whole and provides harmful treatment bottlenecks to cancer patients,” read the statement.
According to ZADHR the delays are increasing out of pocket health expenditures and consequently household poverty as patients seek care in private but costly alternatives.
“The right to palliative care is entwined to the right to health and we condemn the psychological trauma cancer patients are made to go through during these episodes,” the organisation said.
Dr Mpofu joined the MDC interim National Youth Executive lead by Learnmore Jongwe (with President Chamisa as National Coordinator) in 1999, after several years as a student leader. He was then elected the first Youth Assembly Secretary General at the party’s inaugural Congress in January 2000. He has been nominated for National Party Chairperson and is seeking further Nomination and endorsement.
EXPERIENCE
Senator Mpofu’s recently a Member of the Party Standing Committee and its Deputy Spokesperson. His experiences, persona and acquired skills will be best used in the National Chairperson position. In particular (but not limited to these);
1) As a Deputy Dean in a University, he was involved in overseeing conflict avoidance, management and resolution of conflicts and disputes between and amongst students, academics and administrative staff which experience and acquired skills will help the party, its structures and/or organs.
2) Dr Mpofu is a founding party member and the inaugural party National Youth Secretary General. While in post, he oversaw the general health and state of the Assembly. Also as a Youth Assembly Chief Administrator, Dr Mpofu monitored, supervised and oversaw that all elections in the assembly, external or otherwise were properly conducted in order to ensure that due process was followed in terms of the constitution and that each election met the standards expected of the values and principles of the Youth Assembly. It was the office of the Youth SG that also responded to any disputes that arose from election and he was able to resolve them with speed and satisfaction of aggrieved parties, a key attribute required for the position of the National Chairperson. So the skills attained in this position and other management experiences will undoubtedly come in handy for the office of the National Chairperson of the party especially at a time when the party is under heavy criticism for double candidates and election disputes.
3) Senator Mpofu has worked as the Chairperson of University-wide disciplinary Committee for several years, where he reviewed over 50 cases of academic misconduct. Such cases needed skill, attention to detail and research which experience will strengthen the position of the National Chair who is expected to Chair the National Disciplinary Committee. In addition, Senator Mpofu is currently the Deputy Spokesperson of the party a position that requires a good communicator that he has proved to be. As a Deputy Spokesperson he has used his skills as a good listener and these skills will enable me to be a good judge of character and cases that will be brought to him as the party National Chairperson.
4) In addition to the aforementioned, he has participated and chaired several committees and boards in business, academia and politics. The skills and experiences obtained thereof will not make him an alien to the Nation Chairperson’s remit as the chair of the Congress, the National Conference and the National Council.
Finally, Senator Mpofu is a committed founding member of the party who will serve his position with the greatest level of integrity, honesty and distinction while upholding and respecting the party constitution.
By Staff Reporter- Almost a year later following the announcement of Zimbabwe’s election outcome which declared Zanu Pf’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa as the winner, Justice Luke Malaba’s Constitutional Court full judgement report is yet to be availed.
The man who was declared the winner, is evidently showing that he has little oxygen left thus he has to rob someone for it.
Earlier in the year, Mnangagwa’s message portrayed in several state media headlines, was that his biggest contender in the July 2018 elections, MDC leader, Nelson Chamisa has to be replaced by a mature leader.
Legitimacy
But Chamisa has argued that it is not about maturity but legitimacy.
Mnangagwa is superitending an economy which seems to be crying to be told who the real President of the country is, because after piles and files of corruption beginning with the electoral one (filmed on ZBC TV), Mnangagwa has failed to convince that he is legitimate.
Chamisa’s fiery spokesman, Dr Nkululeko Sibanda speaking to ZimEye.com reveals this plot:
“It is very clear that the Malaba verdict which declared Mnangagwa the winner of the 2018 elections, has no figures to support it” and Justice Malaba even said so of the elections of which Mnangagwa deployed the army to shoot people in order to change election results as according to the full ZBC broadcast 8 months before (on the 15th Dec 2017.)
Earlier in April 2019, Mnangagwa possessed one window of opportunity, which was to sponsor someone inside the MDC party who can replace Chamisa. The only person back then was Chamisa’s long-time nemesis, MDC Secretary General, Douglas Mwonzora.
But after all 13 provinces voted unanimously for Chamisa as evidenced at the weekend, there is still some window for Mnangagwa, which is to build a cloud of criticism that will result in the MDC splitting. The method to be deployed is that of aggressive subversion against Chamisa’s character, portray him as a dictator, and someone unsuitable for leadership office.
It is hoped, this will serve the necessary bomb blast effect to de-legitimise Chamisa as the real elected MDC President.
As of yesterday, three groups had emerged, one led by former MDC councillor, Warship Dumba, another led by so called disgruntled MDC candidates for Bulawayo, and another operating on social networking, website, Twitter, labelling Chamisa a dictator.
On Monday there was a hot volcanic build-up on social media against Nelson Chamisa’s character as a trusted leader. He was criticized even for basics such as the powers the MDC constitution (left by the late leader Morgan Tsvangirai) give him. Instead of people attacking the Tsvangirai constitution, they were up in arms with the man who is still to be announced the elected MDC leader.
Through all these events, Mnangagwa’s loud message to Chamisa is very clear, ” it’s not over until it is over.”
Farai Dziva|Well placed sources in the Home Affairs Ministry have claimed Minister Cain Mathema will release the names of those plotting to overthrow Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government.
An official in the Home Affairs Ministry has said Mathema is in possession of documented information about the alleged plot to remove Mnangagwa.
“The Minister cannot disclose the information about the plot to overthrow the government at this juncture as doing so will compromise intelligence operations,” claimed the official.
On Monday Mathema claimed:“We have the names of the organisations and the names of the people who want to organise the demonstrations. At an opportune time, we will share their names.”
By Farai D Hove| ZANU PF President Emmerson Mnangagwa has threatened private businesses over the issue of overpricing.
Mnangagwa made his announcement as his deputy, Constantino Chiwenga labelled businesses “financial terrorists.”
The two’s verbal attacks came at a time when the government’s own parastatal NetOne was the first to increase data costs by 1,300%.
Delivering his May day message, Mnangagwa said: “The wanton, unjustified increases in prices are unpalatable and may point to some other sinister motives. This conduct must stop forthwith. My Government will not stand by and leave workers and the generality of our people at the mercy of a small group with rent seeking and profiteering tendencies.
“I urge you the workers of Zimbabwe, to remain resilient, hopeful and focused as we accelerate our determination and resolve to build the Zimbabwe we all want. I call for the protection of women against all forms of violence and abuse in the workplace. Let us also desist from child labour; foster fair and equal treatment; provide equal employment opportunities to all, including people living with disabilities.
“Grievances and differences must be settled through the correct procedures. As is the culture of the 2nd Republic, dialogue is key, hard honest work is fundamental and corruption of any kind must be exposed and reported.”
Farai Dziva|The MDC A has dismissed Home Affairs Minister Cain Mathema’s claims that civic organisations are plotting to topple Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Addressing the media on Monday Mathema claimed the government had discovered a plot to unseat the President.
Accoording to Mathema a workshop has been organised by foreign nationals working with civic organisations- aimed at planning demonstrations meant to overthrowing the Zanu PF government.
Responding to Mathema’s utterances at a news conference in Harare today MDC A spokesperson Jacob Mafume said:” This is yet another desperate attempt by the regime to denigrate democratic groups.
Minister Mathema’s utterances are dangerous and reckless and his sentiments reflect the position of a cornered regime that is prepared to do anything to remain in power,” said Mafume.
By Own Correspondent- An aircraft belonging to the national airliner, Air Zimbabwe, Embraer ERJ145 purchased from the United States of America has arrived.
The aircraft is expected to undergo inspections before it starts servicing some of the airline routes.
In a statement Air Zimbabwe head of public relations, Firstme Vitori said:
“The 50-seater jet is expected to go through the local registration process as well as all mandatory checks, tests and certification before it enters into service within the next 21 days.
All crew and engineers licensed for the aircraft have been drawn from within the current human capital pool, a sign of the high level of competent skills available in Zimbabwe.”
Air Zimbabwe intends to service its debt by disposing redundant and obsolete equipment which includes aircrafts and spare parts for equipment which is no longer in service.
Recently, there were reports in the media suggesting that the airline was left with only one plane servicing many routes.-StateMedia
Farai Dziva|A social media platform for political analysis and reconciliation matters has challenged Home Affairs Minister Cain Mathema to name individuals and institutions he claims are plotting to topple Emmerson Mnangagwa.
In a statement on Twitter RealVoiceOfZimbabwe challenged Mathema to reveal the names of such individuals and organisations.
“Please name the people/entities who want to unseat Mnangagwa so that other Zimbabweans can get in touch with them to help them in such a beautiful and progressive endeavor.
Zimbabweans want the current Gvt gone, its the best thing that can ever happen to them! (BREAD – $3.50),” RealVoiceOfZimbabwe tweeted.
Radio DJ, Erick Knight writes responding to a floating rumour against his character.
FULL TEXT:
Hello Zimbabwe!
Satan at it again for the umpteenth time! I’m told some person on social media who is cooking nice stories that she goes out with me and is expecting The General’s baby.
She has nicely cut out one of my many pictures off Facebook and blended it with some chats.
The phone number used is one of my numbers that people share with each other as they request us to participate in their functions
Please ignore that lunatic. I don’t even know who it is and where the person is.
These are the days of social media tomfoolery. Photoshop even voice projection is doctored nowadays.
UPDATE — INCIDENT ON FLIGHT UNI462 ON 28 APRIL 2019 30 April 2019 Air Zimbabwe wishes to inform the public that investigations into the incident on our Boeing 767-200ER (ZAPF, on 28 April 2019 have been completed. We can report that there was an engine surge on the aircraft as a result of a foreign object ingestion on the left engine, at takeoff. This resulted in some brief sparks on the tail pipe and not an actual fire and these sparks extinguished shortly afterwards. The Pilot took all necessary precautions including checking all the parameters and concluded that there was no compromise or safety risk to the passengers and crew onboard hence the decision to proceed to RGM International Airport. Harare where the aircraft landed safely at 2035hrs. The left engine has since been replaced. Mandatory test flights and checks have been successfully caned out. The aircraft is expected back in service in the evening on Tuesday 30 April 2019. We sincerely apologize to all our valued passengers whose travel schedules have been disrupted. Air Zimbabwe wishes to assure all valued stakeholders of its commitment and strict adherence to all quality and safety standards. providing Zimbabwean Hospitality in the Skies.
Farai Dziva|Irate clients have castigated NetOne for hiking data bundles tariffs- among other services.
In its online survey to obtain responses from clients the company said:” Dear Value Customers
Please may you take a moment to complete this short survey relating to NetOne products and services. Your feedback is highly rated and will help us enhance our product bouquet and in developing new ones to ensure you continue getting the best experience.
Thank you for your participation!
NetOne Customer Survey
docs.google.com.”
Below are responses from NetOne customers:
Hybatroy Muchabaiwa:
You do not have a good position as far as market share is concerned, you were miles behind Econet your lines ainyadzisa kuve naro achinzi ndeemasabhuku.
You introduced the onefusion product which was a noble idea but you failed to market it then you decided to use the suffering children of Zimbabwe you recruited as many as you can and gave them fake promises.
They worked very hard walking very long distances and going home at night 9.00 hrs with a dollar or less in hand. They knocked at every gate and every car window while some were even abused in the field.
Maxwell Gwanzura:
I can’t and I will not use my Econet Data on Your survey I’m sorry.
If you were genuine in your consultations, you should have done that “survey” before hiking tariffs.
If you check you’ll notice that ever since you hiked tariffs, many of us never purchased any Net1 product.
As for my line I don’t mind if you close it down now! This Institutional arrogance makes me sick to my stomach especially considering that it’s being done by a state entity.
Munobhowa fani!
Ozington Konke:
It’s just unacceptable $1 for 250mbs now $1 for 47mb, 203 subtracted garai naro line rekumunda mandibhowa nhasi ende ndatoriisa muchimbudzi moved to Telecel.
By Own Correspondent- President Emmerson Mnangagwa has appreciated the role played by Zimbabwean workers in the diaspora whose contribution to the economy through remittances he said is benefitting the country.
Mnangagwa applauded their efforts, hard work and sacrifices expressing optimism that the country will realise modernisation, industrialisation and economic growth.
In his press statement on the occasion of Workers Day celebrations issued Tuesday night, Mnangagwa said:
“Allow me to also acknowledge the role being played by Zimbabwean workers in the Diaspora. We recognise the contribution you continue to make to our motherland through your remittances and the sustenance of your families. We applaud your efforts, hard work and sacrifices.
As workers, you are an integral cog as we drive towards the attainment of vision 2030. We appreciate and salute the contributions and hard work and sacrifice that you continue to make in building our great nation.
You are a sector that we are going to give due attention in the 2nd republic. We know that with you as partners, we will realise the modernisation, industrialisation, growth and prosperity of our economy. Working together, Zimbabwe shall surely rise.”
By Own Correspondent- Speaker of parliament, Advocate Jacob Mudenda has said Zimbabwe is a constitutional democracy founded on principles of political pluralism and diversity as opposed to political monism.
Said Mudenda:
“Party pluralism has been a defining feature of our democracy since independence in 1980. That is why section 3(2) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe emphatically states that: “The principles of good governance, which bind the State and all institutions and agencies of Government at every level include a multi-party democratic political system, an electoral system based on universal adult suffrage and equality of votes, free, fair and regular elections and adequate representation of the electorate.
“Flowing from the above constitutional provisions and pursuant to the need to enhance and expand the democratic dispensation in Zimbabwe, Parliament is currently seized with the alignment of laws to the Constitution, the Ease of Doing Business Laws and the Electoral Law reforms.
“These are meant to ensure the 2023 harmonised elections are free, fair, transparent and credible to the extent that they reflect the true democratic will of the people of Zimbabwe apart from creating a positive environment to attract both domestic and foreign investors.”-State Media
By Own Correspondent- Unconfirmed reports suggest that Cyclone Kenneth death toll has risen to 38 amid worsening conditions in some parts of Mozambique where heavy rains and likely flooding is expected on Tuesday (today).
Infrastructures including roads and bridges have been lost so far leaving some areas inaccessible and with power.
The cyclone is also reported to have destroyed and or damaged about 30,000 houses, 193 classrooms and 14 health units.
It is believed that Kenneth is the strongest hurricane to have made landfall on mainland Africa and a first for Mozambique.
The devastation comes barely a month after another cyclone ravaged the African country.
Tropical Cyclone Idai left a trail of disaster in Mozambique including parts of Zimbabwe in Chipinge and Chimanimani.
By Own Correspondent- President Emmerson Mnangagwa has expressed optimism that the country will realise modernisation, industrialisation, growth and economic growth.
In his press statement on the occasion of Workers Day celebrations issued Tuesday night, Mnangagwa said:
“As workers, you are an integral cog as we drive towards the attainment of vision 2030. We appreciate and salute the contributions and hard work and sacrifice that you continue to make in building our great nation.
You are a sector that we are going to give due attention in the 2nd republic. We know that with you as partners, we will realise the modernisation, industrialisation, growth and prosperity of our economy. Working together, Zimbabwe shall surely rise.”
By Own Correspondent- Philip Muswere, a clan member of the Makoni chieftainship, has dragged President Emmerson Mnangagwa to the High court accusing him of neglecting his constitutional duties of resolving a wrangle amongst his clan members.
Muswere argues that according to customs and practices of Makoni people, a member of the Muswere clan was supposed to be appointed chief Makoni following the death of Naboth Nyakurerwa Gandanzara.
However, Gwasira was appointed instead.
Muswere said:
“In terms of the customs and practices of the Makoni people, a substantive chief was supposed to be appointed by the family of Mukuwapasi in consultation with the spirit mediums.
The Mukuwapasi(s) in consultation with the spirit mediums nominated the Muswere clan as next in line of succession to provide a candidate for appointment to chieftainship.”
The plaintiff accuses Mnangagwa, Local Government minister July Moyo and the Provincial Assembly of Chiefs for Manicaland Province for neglecting their responsibilities associated with the matter.
The failure by the first, second and third respondents to solve the chieftainship, was wrongful and unlawful. Plaintiff now seeks a declaratory order compelling the first, second and third defendants to solve the Makoni chieftainship dispute.
By Own Correspondent- Zanu PF’s Mashonaland East political commissar and Mutoko South legislator Hebert Shumbamhini has revealed that a mining company identified as Reds or Sidingo sealed boreholes it had drilled in when it was leaving the area.
Shumbamhini was reporting during a provincial coordinating committee meeting held in Marondera on Sunday.
The company is also reported to have refused to renovate the houses of villagers that developed cracks as a result of the miner’s blasting.
Shumbamhini reported:
“We have a mining company that wound up its operations in Mutoko district. They had sunk boreholes in the area, but when they left, they sealed all the boreholes that were benefiting villagers. We tried to engage them to renovate villagers’ houses that cracked during the time they were operating as a result of blasting as well as repairing bridges, but (it was) in vain. We kindly ask the authorities to assist on these matters.”
It is reported that miners of the black stone is Mutoko also do less to the community which remains amongst the poorest despite producing about 75% of Zimbabwe’s black granite. Statistics suggest that at least 98% of black granite extracted from Mutoko is exported to Germany, Spain and Italy.- Newsday
By Own Correspondent- First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa has donated an assortment of foodstuffs, blankets and clothes worth thousands of dollars to disadvantaged children and other vulnerable members of society in Harare.
She made the donations to seven children and old people’s homes through her charity organisation, Angel of Hope Foundation.
The homes that received donations were Bako Redonhodzo Old People’s Home, Chinyaradzo Children’s Home, SOS Children’s Home, Shungu Dzevana, Braeside Old People’s Home, St Joseph Home for Boys and Danai Children’s Home.-StateMedia
HIGHLANDERS Football Club executive has decided against renewing chief executive officer Nhlanhla Dube’s contract which ended today.
Dube was given a two year contract, taking over from veteran administrator Ndumiso Gumede and indications were that his tenure would be extended but the executive thought otherwise.
It’s impossible to say whether or not the switch to Rand will be acceptable to the Zimbabwean government.
The new millennium brought currency chaos to Zimbabwe. As the state currency failed due to hyperinflation, the government cobbled together a multi-currency approach to cover the country’s need for useful cash. US Dollars, Euros, South African Rands, Dollar-pegged bond notes, and a smattering of other currencies facilitated trade while Zimbabwe came up with a more viable long-term solution. This volatility has been an exciting time for currency investors; not so much for Zimbabwean consumers.
The aforementioned solution was released in February 2019. The RTSG (Real-time Gross Settlement) Dollar was meant to function as the new national currency. Unfortunately, it too has been inflating, such that the price of local goods is starting to spin out of control in some cases.
Much of this is due to the nation’s dependence upon the US Dollar. The most desired currency in the world, the US Dollar is used to settle Zimbabwean import deals. Because the Dollar is the final word on what products enter the country, it is only natural that its value will be amplified relative to the BTSG. Critics worry that another cycle of hyperinflation will render the BTSG worthless.
However, Zimbabwean billionaire Strive Masiyiwa thinks he has identified a simple solution. If Zimbabwe were to switch the currency accepted for all goods and services to South African Rands, this could arrest the downward spiral. The Rand is easily the most stable regional currency and is in greater supply than the US Dollar. Since South Africa and Zimbabwe are close and cordial trading partners (both geographically and politically), using the Rand could bring stability and efficiency to these markets. Not only would such a move make this an amazing opportunity to buy South African Rand, it could be accomplished “overnight”, according to Masiyawa.
For those who do not live in Zimbabwe, this quick fix may be possible because a whopping 80% of Zimbabwe’s imports come directly from South Africa. As of now, these imports are paid for in US Dollars. However, it would be easy enough to complete these transactions in Rand, which is a more easily accessible currency than US Dollars within Zimbabwe anyway.
While this move would make the RTSG nearly worthless in a practical sense, it could keep Zimbabwe from descending once more into currency chaos.
Masiyiwa also points out that using Rands at all stops in the South Africa to Zimbabwe product pipeline would dramatically cut costs. He says that it’s not uncommon for Zimbabwean consumers to pay 3x the price for a South African loaf of bread, compared to the cost of that same loaf of bread in South Africa.
Much of that price difference is due to currency conversion costs, and the upward mobility of the US Dollar relative to the RTSG. It’s easy to understand that increased confidence in the Dollar (again, relative to the RTSG) would only exacerbate this problem. RTSGs would be traded for ever less US Dollars, which would buy ever less food and imports. Local prices could only be driven up in this process.
It’s impossible to say whether or not the switch to Rand will be acceptable to the Zimbabwean government, or if it will be as effective as Masiyiwa says if it is implemented. However, if it works, it would be an elegant solution to currency woes, without Zimbabwe even being required to enter a new trading or customs union. For Zimbabweans looking for any workable solution, Rand may be the path forward.
The South African government has pledged to rebuild three bridges in areas ravaged by Cyclone Idai in March this year where more than 250 people perished in the national disaster.
South African International Relations and Co-operation Minister Lindiwe Sisulu made the announcement in her remarks on the Occasion of the Department of International relations and Co-operation Month Media Briefing in Pretoria, South Africa yesterday.
She also paid tribute to South African citizens who responded to a request for donations for the affected peoples of Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Malawi.
The UN Office for Coordination of Humanitariran Affairs and Emergency Relief has in a statement disclosed that Malawi and Zimbabwe are also expected to experience heavy rains and flooding caused by Cyclone Kenneth. The Statement reads:
United Nations Nations Unies
Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
UNDER-SECRETARY-GENERAL FOR HUMANITARIAN AFFAIRS AND EMERGENCY RELIEF COORDINATOR MARK LOWCOCK
Statement on the impact of Cyclone Kenneth
I am deeply saddened by the loss of life and destruction caused by Tropical Cyclone Kenneth which first hit the Union of Comoros two days ago before making landfall as a category 4 storm last night in the Cabo Delgado province in northern Mozambique on the border with Tanzania.
With maximum sustained wind speed of 225 km/hour and gusts that reached 270km/hour, the storm ripped roofs off of homes and continues to generate heavy rainfall resulting in massive flooding as it moves across Mozambique.
The disaster comes only six weeks after Cyclone Idai devastated central Mozambique, killing more than 600 people, unleashing a cholera epidemic, wiping out crops in the country’s breadbasket, forcing a million people to rely on food assistance to survive, and causing massive destruction of homes, schools and infrastructure in one of the world’s poorest countries.
The UN and partners continue to support the Government-led humanitarian responses to Cyclone Idai in Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe. Cyclone Kenneth marks the first time two cyclones have made landfall in Mozambique during the same season, further stressing the Government’s limited resources. Malawi and Zimbabwe are also expected to experience heavy rains and flooding caused by Cyclone Kenneth.
Prior to the storm making landfall in Mozambique, the Government and Red Cross volunteers alerted communities in areas at high risk of flooding, erosion and landslides, and relocated residents most at risk. The UN and its partners pre-positioned supplies and put teams on stand-by to deploy if required.
Today, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) is redeploying its leadership and additional staff in Mozambique to Pemba to help coordinate the Government-led response and manage information. Shelter, clean water, sanitation and hygiene kits, food and non-food items, power generation and telecommunication equipment are urgently needed, while the areas impacted by the storm are difficult to access.
Cyclone Kenneth may require a major new humanitarian operation at the same time that the ongoing Cyclone Idai response targeting 3 million people in three countries remains critically underfunded. The families whose lives have been turned upside down by these climate-related disasters urgently need the generosity of the international community to survive over the coming months.
Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, 26 April 2019
For more information, please contact: Russell Geekie, OCHA New York, [email protected], +1 212 963 8340 Jens Laerke, OCHA Geneva, [email protected],+41 79 472 9750 OCHA press releases are available at www.unocha.org or www.reliefweb.int
By Farai D Hove| The Information Ministry was mocked Tuesday after complaining about sanctions for Parirenyatwa Hospital’s failure to pay $53,000 for the repair of radiotherapy machines.
The announcement which was made on Twitter read as follows:
“Govt has noted reports that Parirenyatwa & Mpilo Hospitals are failing to repair broken down radiotherapy machines due to forex challenges. The US$53 000 needed was availed last week, but the hospitals are failing to transact owing to sanctions restrictions on the banks they use.”
Air Zimbabwe has purchased a new plane, an Embraer ERJ-145, bringing the number of planes owned by the company to two.
The Post Cabinet briefing on Tuesday reported that Zimbabwe has taken note of the delivery of an Embraer plane, which landed at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport on Tuesday.
The acquisition of the plane is part of efforts to revive the national airline, Air Zimbabwe, Cabinet said.
Air Zimbabwe was put under construction in 2018 after it was diagnosed to be a failing parastatal.
The new plane is branded Zimbabwe Airways which is the name of a failed airline that was fronted by Simba Chikore. Aviation expert Jerry Haas said, “The Embraer E145 will be branded to Air Zimbabwe in the coming days and registered with CAAZ. Air Zimbabwe trained 8 pilots in South Africa for the E145 rating. It’s expected to be in service for mid to end of May.”
The opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) has dismissed an instruction by the late Veteran Politician Morgan Richard Tsvangirai’s family that those who will attend his memorial service must not wear political party regalia.
Speaking during a press statement on Tuesday Party Spokesperson Jacob Mafume said, “We will attend the memorial service of our late icon in full force. We are going to be wearing whatever we want whether it is party regalia or not.
“As you remember Morgan Tsvangirai was the Founder of MDC. He is red inside his blood, inside his grave and in heaven where he is.”
When asked about the instruction from the Tsvangirai family Mafume said, “We are the family of Morgan Richard Tsvangirai. The family of Tsvangirai is the MDC. They were beaten with him, they died with him and lived with him. Some of us are carrying scars of being part of Tsvangirai’s family.”
On Monday the Tsvangirai family spokesperson Manase Tsvangirai told private media that, “The other thing we would like to highlight is that, we hope and believe that people who are coming for this memorial, should not be seen wearing any political parties’ regalia. Instead we expect people to be wearing the regalia of the late Morgan Tsvangirai.”
Manase added that the family was hoping Zimbabweans would respect their wish.
“This is a memorial and we expect people to respect this family decision by putting branded t-shirts with his face only. This is our wish as a family as a measure of respect to the late Tsvangirai whom everybody called their icon,” said Tsvangirai’s brother.
Farai Dziva|Well placed sources in the Home Affairs Ministry have claimed Minister Cain Mathema will release the names of those plotting to overthrow Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government.
An official in the Home Affairs Ministry has said Mathema is in possession of documented information about the alleged plot to remove Mnangagwa.
“The Minister cannot disclose the information about the plot to overthrow the government at this juncture as doing so will compromise intelligence operations,” claimed the official.
On Monday Mathema claimed:“We have the names of the organisations and the names of the people who want to organise the demonstrations. At an opportune time, we will share their names.”
A clan member of the Makoni chieftainship, Philip Muswere has dragged President Emmerson Mnangagwa to the High court accusing him of neglecting his constitutional duties of resolving a wrangle amongst clan members.
Muswere argues that according to customs and practices of Makoni people, a member of the Muswere clan was supposed to be appointed chief Makoni following the death of Naboth Nyakurerwa Gandanzara. However, Gwasira was appointed instead. Muswere said: “In terms of the customs and practices of the Makoni people, a substantive chief was supposed to be appointed by the family of Mukuwapasi in consultation with the spirit mediums.
The Mukuwapasi(s) in consultation with the spirit mediums nominated the Muswere clan as next in line of succession to provide a candidate for appointment to chieftainship.”
Emmerson Mnangagwa
The plaintiff accuses Mnangagwa, Local Government minister July Moyo and the Provincial Assembly of Chiefs for Manicaland Province for neglecticting their responsibilities associated with the matter. The failure by the first, second and third respondents to solve the chieftainship, was wrongful and unlawful. Plaintiff now seeks a declaratory order compelling the first, second and third defendants to solve the Makoni chieftainship dispute.
He is now seeking the issue to be resolved within 60 days from the date of the court order if the court rules in his favour, failure of which he said Gwasira’s appointment must be nullified. Daily News
By Own Correspondent| Harare’s Ward 43 residents in Budiriro 5A’s High Density area are up in arms against a land baron from an upmarket suburb, Grange who is planning to construct a double storey Pre – School building on a wetland.
The residents, have vowed to disrupt and stop any construction work on the site.
The developer, from an affluent suburb in Harare however maintains there is a lease agreement obtained more than five years ago from the City Authorities. But the residents and environment activists argue that a lease agreement is a temporary document that does not allow one to carry out any construction work on a site.
Councillor for Ward 43 in Budiriro 5A High Density Area Norman Makondo refused to meet residents Sunday afternoon. This was despite the residents informing him that they had summoned the developer and the area’s leadership to get clarification over the issue.
Legislator for the area Costa Machingauta attended the meeting and promised residents he was going to look into the matter.
Farai Dziva|The MDC A has dismissed Home Affairs Minister Cain Mathema’s claims that civic organisations are plotting to topple Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Addressing the media on Monday Mathema claimed the government had discovered a plot to unseat the President.
Accoording to Mathema a workshop has been organised by foreign nationals working with civic organisations- aimed at planning demonstrations meant to overthrowing the Zanu PF government.
Responding to Mathema’s utterances at a news conference in Harare today MDC A spokesperson Jacob Mafume said:” This is yet another desperate attempt by the regime to denigrate democratic groups.
Minister Mathema’s utterances are dangerous and reckless and his sentiments reflect the position of a cornered regime that is prepared to do anything to remain in power,” said Mafume.
Farai Dziva|A social media platform for political analysis and reconciliation matters has challenged Home Affairs Minister Cain Mathema to name individuals and institutions he claims are plotting to topple Emmerson Mnangagwa.
In a statement on Twitter RealVoiceOfZimbabwe challenged Mathema to reveal the names of such individuals and organisations.
“Please name the people/entities who want to unseat Mnangagwa so that other Zimbabweans can get in touch with them to help them in such a beautiful and progressive endeavor.
Zimbabweans want the current Gvt gone, its the best thing that can ever happen to them! (BREAD – $3.50),” RealVoiceOfZimbabwe tweeted.
