By- The Zanu PF government has announced that it has vetted over 200 000 new war veterans.
According to the state media following the launch of the first phase of vetting of the veterans of the liberation struggle by President Mnangagwa in 2021, 207 103 applicants registered for vetting by the end of that year, while 150 434 were vetted by the end of 2022, leaving a balance of 56 669, Defence and War Veterans Affairs Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri has said.
Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri said this in an update on the implementation of the Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Act that was enacted in 2020 to provide a holistic approach to the welfare of the veterans in their respective categories. The law recognises the four categories of the veterans of the liberation struggle as provided for by the Constitution and they are; the war veterans, ex-political prisoners, detainees and restrictees, non-combatant cadres and war collaborators. “A total of 207 103 applicants registered for vetting in 2021 and 150 434 were vetted in 2022, leaving a balance of 56 669. Statistically this means that 72 percent of veterans of all categories were vetted, implying that another 28 percent remain outstanding,” she said. The Minister said there were some veterans that did not register but turned up for the vetting exercise while others registered but did not turn up for vetting. Of those vetted 121 185 were provisionally successful as their details were verified with the Registrar General’s Office and their names would soon be gazetted for a period of 30 days to allow for any representations against their accreditation. If there’s no representations, they would be deemed accredited as Veterans of the Liberation Struggle. She added that 29 249 were deemed not successful with 11 330 being unsuccessful on the account of age while 17 919 had inadequate personal information particularly identity documents. The legal requirement on age is that one should have been 16 years by December 31, 1979. Those with inadequate have been directed to provide more details to provincial and district field officers and on completion of the exercise their names will also be submitted to the RG’s office for verification. “Those who do not meet the age criteria will be disqualified whilst those who succeed will also be gazetted. Those who meet the vetting criteria will be included on the list of the successfully vetted veterans after their names are gazetted,” Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri said. She added that the gazetting process was not a once off process but a continuous exercise.
Two more people have died President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Gold runner, Scott Sakupwanya’s Redwing Mine in Penhalonga, Manicaland.
Scott’s Better Brands has reportedly continued conducting secret mining operations at this mine.
According to NewsDay, two more artisanal miners died on Monday.
The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) closed the mine in January over fatal accidents involving artisanal miners.
Manicaland police spokesperson Inspector Nobert Muzondo confirmed that two more deaths were reported on Monday. Muzondo is quoted as saying:
Police confirm the sudden death by trapping in Penhalonga on March 13, 2023, of Hardlife Dzamiti (21) of Chiware village under Chief Nyashanu, Buhera, who entered into a mine shaft 8 metres deep. While inside, a mudslide fell into the mineshaft, trapping him.
On the same day, Joshua Ncube from Harare died of suffocation. Police said the now-deceased Ncube was in the company of Terrence Magwara in a 13-metre deep mineshaft when he developed some difficulties in breathing and died.
Mine deaths occur almost occasionally, the frequency is high because we have illegal miners who are sneaking into disused shafts. As police it is our call to those who are sneaking into the mineshafts to desist because the soils are loose because of the incessant rains.
James Mupfumi, the director of the Centre for Research and Development said they were worried about recurrent deaths at Redwing Mine. He said:
Perpetrators of slave labour in mining pits at Redwing Mine are behind gold smuggling, tax evasion and environmental degradation and loss of lives in Penhalonga and we are worried.
Centre for Natural Resource Governance director Farai Maguwu urged authorities to stop “unsafe mining that is happening at the mine.”
Sakupwanya is a ZANU PF councillor for Mabvuku Ward 21 .
By-Several schoolchildren at Globe and Phoenix Primary in Kwekwe were injured after a classroom block caved in a suspected gold claim while in class.
Massive illegal gold mining activities have occurred underneath the school grounds in Kwekwe.
President Emmerson Mnnangagwa’s terror gangs conduct most of these illegal operations.
The media have also published several stories on the dangers posed by these illegal mining activities.
Kwekwe District Development Coordinator, Mr Fortune Mpungu confirmed the incident saying the District Civil Protection Unit(CPU) was now on the ground.
The list of teams that have qualified for the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals is now complete.
England will be represented by Chelsea and Manchester City after Liverpool and Tottenham failed to progress to the next round.
Serie A giants Inter Milan, AC Milan and Napoli also reached the round of last 8.
Defending champions Real Madrid (Spain), Benfica (Portugal) and Bayern Munich (Germany) complete the list.
Qualified Teams Bayern (GER) Benfica (POR) Chelsea (ENG) Inter (ITA) Man City (ENG) Milan (ITA) Napoli (ITA) Real Madrid (ESP)
Draw Details The next rounds fixtures will be confirmed at a draw ceremony set for Friday 17 March at 1 pm CAT.
The event will cover the draws for the remaining rounds – the quarterfinal, semifinal and final.
The draw for the final will determine the ‘home’ side for administrative reasons.
Fixture Dates The quarterfinals first legs take place on Tuesday 11 and Wednesday 12 April, with the returns scheduled for 18 and 19 April. The semi-finals will be on 9/10 and 16/17 May with the final on Saturday 10 June.
How to watch the draw SuperSport TV will broadcast the draw ceremony live on SuperSport Premier League channel 203.
The event will also be streamed live on UEFA.com.- Soccer24 Zimbabwe
A first-of-its-kind World Health Organization (WHO) Global report on sodium intake reduction shows that the world is off-track to achieve its global target of reducing sodium intake by 30% by 2025.
Sodium, an essential nutrient, increases the risk of heart disease, stroke and premature death when eaten in excess. The main source of sodium is table salt (sodium chloride), but it is also contained in other condiments such as sodium glutamate. The report shows that only 5% of WHO Member States are protected by mandatory and comprehensive sodium reduction policies and 73% of WHO Member States lack full range of implementation of such policies.
Implementing highly cost-effective sodium reduction policies could save an estimated 7 million lives globally by 2030. It is an important component of action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal target of reducing deaths from noncommunicable diseases. But today, only nine countries (Brazil, Chile, Czech Republic, Lithuania, Malaysia, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Spain and Uruguay) have a comprehensive package of recommended policies to reduce sodium intake.
“Unhealthy diets are a leading cause of death and disease globally, and excessive sodium intake is one of the main culprits,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “This report shows that most countries are yet to adopt any mandatory sodium reduction policies, leaving their people at risk of heart attack, stroke, and other health problems. WHO calls on all countries to implement the ‘Best Buys’ for sodium reduction, and on manufacturers to implement the WHO benchmarks for sodium content in food.”
A comprehensive approach to sodium reduction includes adopting mandatory policies and WHO’s four “best buy” interventions related with sodium which greatly contribute to preventing noncommunicable diseases. These include:
Reformulating foods to contain less salt, and setting targets for the amount of sodium in foods and meals Establishing public food procurement policies to limit salt or sodium rich foods in public institutions such as hospitals, schools, workplaces and nursing homes Front-of-package labelling that helps consumers select products lower in sodium Behaviour change communication and mass media campaigns to reduce salt/sodium consumption Countries are encouraged to establish sodium content targets for processed foods, in line with the WHO Global Sodium Benchmarks and enforce them though these policies.
Mandatory sodium reduction policies are more effective, as they achieve broader coverage and safeguard against commercial interests, while providing a level playing field for food manufacturers. As part of the report, WHO developed a Sodium country score card for Member States based on the type and number of sodium reduction policies they have in place.
“This important report demonstrates that countries must work urgently to implement ambitious, mandatory, government-led sodium reduction policies to meet the global target of reducing salt consumption by 2025,” said Dr Tom Frieden, President and CEO of Resolve to Save Lives, a not-for-profit organization working with countries to prevent 100 million deaths from cardiovascular disease over 30 years. “There are proven measures that governments can implement and important innovations, such as low sodium salts. The world needs action, and now, or many more people will experience disabling or deadly—but preventable—heart attacks and strokes.”
The global average salt intake is estimated to be 10.8 grams per day, more than double the WHO recommendation of less than 5 grams of salt per day (one teaspoon). Eating too much salt makes it the top risk factor for diet and nutrition-related deaths. More evidence is emerging documenting links between high sodium intake and increased risk of other health conditions such as gastric cancer, obesity, osteoporosis and kidney disease.
WHO calls on Member States to implement sodium intake reduction policies without delay and to mitigate the harmful effects of excessive salt consumption. WHO also calls on food manufacturers to set ambitious sodium reduction targets in their products.
To read the report, visit: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240069985
Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Namibia strongly urge the captured Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) to respect the constitution of the motherland by releasing the much-needed electronic voters roll to all stakeholders ahead of the crucial historic harmonized elections in July or August 2023. Zimbabweans are now tired of successive disputed elections since the new millennium. We demand that ZEC avail the roll now to give ample time for an inspection to avert breastfeeding of the ballot by the serial losers.
Social democrats who subscribe to the yellow concur with the industrious Team paChedu which unravels multiple ZEC shenanigans contributing to the contested election results in Zimbabwe every season. The vibrant IT gurus have discovered how ZEC has been bloating the voters roll with thousands of duplicated ghost voters since 2008 by simply putting artificial zeros to the IDs. Yellow revolutionaries in Namibia encourage all progressive citizens in Zimbabwe and abroad to amplify their voices demanding the voters roll as stipulated in the supreme law of the country.
It is quite infuriating that the subsequent fake IDs with counterfeit issue numbers are also part of the 2022 voters roll. Registrar General officials also confirmed that the IDs are very fake yet the remote-controlled court threw away the case submitted before it by the CCC MP for Harare North, Hon Markham. It is frustrating and senseless to participate in an already rigged election. In 2018, 200 000 people miraculously voted for ZANU-PF in 90 minutes in Mashonaland Central. There was an astounding incident where 16 polling stations had identical figures for President Nelson Chamisa and Mr. Mnangagwa.
In July or August, we anticipate that ZEC will respect the will of the citizens of which it should commence now with the release of the voters roll. Zec should desist from manipulating figures to benefit the politically inept party that has dismally failed to revamp the ailing economy. It is now imperative to put political and diplomatic pressure on the captured institution to promote free, fair, credible, and unfettered elections. It is now a public secret to all and sundry that Zec is a crime scene inhabited by criminals and fraudsters.
Citizens should come together and democratically demand the voters roll now or never. When the Honourable’s court application was disregarded, it became clear that the courts are captured and they won’t do anything to save our people from authoritarianism and state repression. ZEC can never conduct a credible election because of the sadistic role to overturn the results in favor of the violent and unpopular Harare regime. No wonder they tactfully refuse to publish the roll ahead of the harmonized elections.
All opposition political parties should unite demanding their constitutional right to access the voters roll before the watershed elections. It is useless to continue without the voters roll because it does not need rocket science to figure out the satanic role being played by ZEC to suppress the will of the people. The frantic efforts from Team paChedu to unearth rigging at ZEC should be complemented by all right-thinking citizens. Allowing ZANU-PF to continue stealing people’s voices exploiting ZEC and the Constitutional Court should come to an abrupt end.
It’s now time for action against all this fraud at ZEC! Wake up Zimbabwe! Rise Zimbabwe Rise! Rise Youths Rise! Rise Women Rise !#FreeJobSaroWiwaSikhala
Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Namibia strongly urge the captured Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) to respect the constitution of the motherland by releasing the much-needed electronic voters roll to all stakeholders ahead of the crucial historic harmonized elections in July or August 2023. Zimbabweans are now tired of successive disputed elections since the new millennium. We demand that ZEC avail the roll now to give ample time for an inspection to avert breastfeeding of the ballot by the serial losers.
Social democrats who subscribe to the yellow concur with the industrious Team paChedu which unravels multiple ZEC shenanigans contributing to the contested election results in Zimbabwe every season. The vibrant IT gurus have discovered how ZEC has been bloating the voters roll with thousands of duplicated ghost voters since 2008 by simply putting artificial zeros to the IDs. Yellow revolutionaries in Namibia encourage all progressive citizens in Zimbabwe and abroad to amplify their voices demanding the voters roll as stipulated in the supreme law of the country.
It is quite infuriating that the subsequent fake IDs with counterfeit issue numbers are also part of the 2022 voters roll. Registrar General officials also confirmed that the IDs are very fake yet the remote-controlled court threw away the case submitted before it by the CCC MP for Harare North, Hon Markham. It is frustrating and senseless to participate in an already rigged election. In 2018, 200 000 people miraculously voted for ZANU-PF in 90 minutes in Mashonaland Central. There was an astounding incident where 16 polling stations had identical figures for President Nelson Chamisa and Mr. Mnangagwa.
In July or August, we anticipate that ZEC will respect the will of the citizens of which it should commence now with the release of the voters roll. Zec should desist from manipulating figures to benefit the politically inept party that has dismally failed to revamp the ailing economy. It is now imperative to put political and diplomatic pressure on the captured institution to promote free, fair, credible, and unfettered elections. It is now a public secret to all and sundry that Zec is a crime scene inhabited by criminals and fraudsters.
Citizens should come together and democratically demand the voters roll now or never. When the Honourable’s court application was disregarded, it became clear that the courts are captured and they won’t do anything to save our people from authoritarianism and state repression. ZEC can never conduct a credible election because of the sadistic role to overturn the results in favor of the violent and unpopular Harare regime. No wonder they tactfully refuse to publish the roll ahead of the harmonized elections.
All opposition political parties should unite demanding their constitutional right to access the voters roll before the watershed elections. It is useless to continue without the voters roll because it does not need rocket science to figure out the satanic role being played by ZEC to suppress the will of the people. The frantic efforts from Team paChedu to unearth rigging at ZEC should be complemented by all right-thinking citizens. Allowing ZANU-PF to continue stealing people’s voices exploiting ZEC and the Constitutional Court should come to an abrupt end.
It’s now time for action against all this fraud at ZEC! Wake up Zimbabwe! Rise Zimbabwe Rise! Rise Youths Rise! Rise Women Rise !#FreeJobSaroWiwaSikhala
Zanu PF heavyweights Wellington Mahwende, current deputy mayor of the city of Masvingo and enigmatic business tycoon James Pande have positioned themselves to represent the turbulent party in Masvingo Urban.
The two clash in the epic Zanu PF primary polls set for Saturday.
Mahwende is accused of bribing council officials to land the post of deputy mayor while Pande is a business tycoon who secretly reaped rewards from being Emmerson Mnangagwa’s blue-eyed boy.
The two are also displaying fiery financial prowess in a bid to outdo each other.
Pande reportedly dished out USD 3000 to Zanu PF zealots on Tuesday.
“It’s anybody’s game. Let us wait for Saturday. Let the best candidate carry the day,” a Zanu PF official said.
Gold is leading economic booster of major towns and growth points in Zimbabwe .
You have to understand how the economy of gold works .
Gold itself is currency that can be exchanged many times before reaching the reserve bank . You have to pick what meets your personality inorder to cut your piece in this larger cake of natural resource tactfully inorder to save resources and avoid risks.
These opportunities range from setting up a hardware in growth points , setting up a food out in growth points and as close as possible to the mines as possible, construction company, retail shop , clothing shops in growth points and many more .In this post we will cover direct opportunities right inside the mine .
1 Transport and logistics You buy a truck or tractor to service surrounding mines for a fee depending on local prices.
Consider the following when buying a tractor or truck
1 cheap: in order to compete well you should cut the cost of buying a tractor or truck preferably old model with parts available in the country. 2 reliable: get something that would be accessible easily; with less breakdowns, a good driver who can put up in the Bush with a functioning fone .
3 Affordable your pricing is should be reasonable or inline with local prices for innovators try pay “pay per view model ” . Charging per kilometre .
Budget between 6000usd and 10 000usd . Return on investment around 6months. Supply of raw materials by loan.
You sell directly to miners explosives, diesel and compressor by loan Explosives: help them to get a licence to store and use explosives then buy and sell to them at profit inside the licensed mine only .
Diesel supply diesel to miners at loan or agreed fee payment after milling.
Compressor hire : buy a compressor loan for shares and cash payments.
For the above three Budget starts from 2000usd upwards . Cyanide plant building: Budget 5000usd upwards this cannot be covered in one post .
Selling safety clothing: one of major high income with less capital is selling safety clothing to miners for cash regardless of how many outlets have been opened .
Diesel powered windlass: this is a Chinese version of headgear but cannot be classified as one can move a tonne of ore at once versus 0;1tonne for traditional human powered windlass. Mine compliance assistance : some people struggle to maintain and meet mining standards they could need financing. Budget open .
NB there are investments as low as 500usd but difficult to maintain and risky recommended for those already familiar with the industry.
This was said by CCC leader President Nelson Chamisa.
The CCC leader implored citizens to remain alert and vigilant before, during and after polls.
“BE VIGILANT…
Too many sideshows around. Don’t be distracted. Don’t get discouraged or frustrated. Some are afraid your right to choose and decide your leaders. Some don’t want you to exercise that right. Tell someone! #OnePlusFive #RegisterToVoteNow” President Chamisa wrote on Twitter.
He added :
“NO MATTER WHAT…
OUR TIME WILL COME! Welcome to a New Great Zimbabwe! Everything new. It’s possible. It’s inevitable. #Godisinit.”
This was said by CCC leader President Nelson Chamisa.
The CCC leader implored citizens to remain alert and vigilant before, during and after polls.
“BE VIGILANT…
Too many sideshows around. Don’t be distracted. Don’t get discouraged or frustrated. Some are afraid your right to choose and decide your leaders. Some don’t want you to exercise that right. Tell someone! #OnePlusFive #RegisterToVoteNow” President Chamisa wrote on Twitter.
He added :
“NO MATTER WHAT…
OUR TIME WILL COME! Welcome to a New Great Zimbabwe! Everything new. It’s possible. It’s inevitable. #Godisinit.”
Zanu PF heavyweights Wellington Mahwende, current deputy mayor of the city of Masvingo and enigmatic business tycoon James Pande have positioned themselves to represent the turbulent party in Masvingo Urban.
The two clash in the epic Zanu PF primary polls set for Saturday.
Mahwende is accused of bribing council officials to land the post of deputy mayor while Pande is a business tycoon who secretly reaped rewards from being Emmerson Mnangagwa’s blue-eyed boy.
The two are also displaying fiery financial prowess in a bid to outdo each other.
Pande reportedly dished out USD 3000 to Zanu PF zealots on Tuesday.
“It’s anybody’s game. Let us wait for Saturday. Let the best candidate carry the day,” a Zanu PF official said.
An 83-year-old Gokwe-based Roman Catholic Bishop died a day after celebrating his birthday.
Bishop Emeritus Angelo Floro died on Tuesday at Gweru General Hospital.
“He celebrated his 83rd birthday on Monday and he looked so happy. There was nothing wrong when he was cutting his cake.
“We are saddened by this development,” said a source. “Chikonzero chaita kuti vashaike nhasi hapana anoziva sezvo nezuro vaifara nevamwe pa birthday party yavo.
“Floro akauya kuno ari mu missionary nevamwe vake avo vakadzokera kunyika kwake asi iye akaramba akashinga haana kudzokera.
The attempted murder trial of a Harare woman, accused of trying to kill her husband, got underway in Harare yesterday.
Jollie Maravanyika pleaded not guilty before regional magistrate Taurai Manuwere.
The State claimed that Maravanyika, who was married to Ally Mupamanda, was having an affair with her husband’s workmate, Ronald Ndoro.
Mupamanda was said to have returned home from work, in the afternoon one day, and Maravanyika tried to stop him from getting into the house.
Mupamanda forced his way in and found Ndoro sitting on his matrimonial bed. The two engaged in a fist fight.
During the fight, Maravanyika allegedly grabbed a kitchen knife and stabbed her husband on the back and left thigh.
Ndoro fled in the process. Mupamanda told the court that he sustained deep cuts on his back.
However, Maravanyika told the court that Mupamanda was not her husband, but her estranged lover, with whom she has a child.
She told the court that he got jealous when he saw her with his workmate, whom she was doing business with.
She accused him of starting the fight and said she was forced to take the knife in self defence and stabbed him to save herself.
Dear Family and Friends,
Our hearts are heavy for our neighbours in Madagascar, Mozambique and Malawi who have been repeatedly in the frontline of Cyclone Freddy for over a month as it has circled, retreated, returned and left a trail of destruction each time. Rivers of mud, houses washed away, trees uprooted, treacherous landslides and massive ravines. Mozambique has been inundated with weeks of torrential rain sweeping houses away and leaving people huddled in shelters, exhausted and traumatized. In Malawi more than 200 people are dead, hundreds are missing, many thousands displaced.
Zimbabwe was mostly spared the worst of it this time. Some eastern areas had high winds, heavy rain, and landslides. And then it got cold, unseasonably cold. When it was all but over, for us in Zimbabwe at least, I stood out under a beautiful, clear and cloudless night sky. Inky black and filled with stars: the two pointers and the Southern Cross, familiar, safe and timeless, pointing the way in front of me, the Milky Way overhead, Orion’s belt and the Seven Sisters behind me.
Looking up into the night sky there are so many memories shining back at me: lying on the lawn with friends watching for satellites in the early evening, for shooting stars as the night got later and sometimes running outside after midnight to lie on our backs and watch spectacular comet showers. Friends have gone, families have scattered and loved ones have passed but our stories from Zimbabwe are never forgotten. I find myself lingering there under the night sky, thinking about Zimbabwe and what may lie ahead for us as another election comes. I thought about the week I’d had in Zimbabwe and the beautiful, soulful people I’d met.
I thought about the Pastor who has just written a little book, a guide to love and family life, a guide for youngsters starting out into adulthood. How proud he was when I asked for a signed copy and handed over a few dollars; he knows that I know most of those dollars will go back into his endless struggle of trying to help people in a run-down, impoverished area where nothing is guaranteed, not even a meal every day. As it has been election after election here, we don’t talk politics, it’s too dangerous, we just talk life, hoping always that this short-term five year thinking of our politicians only wanting to build their mansions and enrich themselves will come to an end once and for all.
Zimbabweans continue to reap the harvest of our leaders’ years of looting and corruption, at the moment it is electricity and trying to keep up with events in Zimbabwe requires real determination to never stop watching. All day every day we are without power, and much of the night too, coming on long after we’ve gone to bed. Every morning we get up earlier and earlier trying to benefit from a brief hour or two of electricity but lately it’s gone by 4.00am and today by 3.00am. Zambia said this week they were going to switch us off over non-payment of a US$10.7 million debt. These numbers and even the reasons for them are often lost on us now as every day our thoughts are on surviving 480% inflation and where each US dollar we need now costs twelve hundred Zimbabwe dollars. Four years ago that same US dollar cost just one Zim dollar.
Trying to rescue a little snake in the swimming pool proved a fruitless exercise in the middle of the night this week. A power cut plunged me into darkness. The torch in my pocket grew dim, the snake swam and wriggled faster than I could see it or hook it out and finally I left it. At first light I returned and in one quick scoop got the snake out. I thought it was dead. Half an hour later it lay unmoving exactly where I’d put it and I bent down to nudge it. Of course it wasn’t dead, just playing dead, and it wasn’t happy with me, running like quicksilver over my fingers before disappearing into the long grass.
At the end of a long day I thought about the old man I’d met on the road to the mountains that morning and the sad news I had to give him. It had been a beautiful journey getting there: tall grass tipped with gold, a huge spider web laced with dew hanging in the mist, two little boys and a donkey cart and away in the valleys steam rising from rivers, curling and twisting as it followed the water course. My heart grew heavy as I arrived at my destination and met the old man. Tears shone in his eyes and also slipped down my cheeks as I told the old man that our mutual friend had died. She had given a life of service to Zimbabwe and always been so kind to everyone in her path, often giving her last scrap of food to someone more in need than her. You will be missed Hilary and we will watch for you in the night sky amongst the shooting stars.
There is no charge for this Letter From Zimbabwe but if you would like to donate please visit my website. Until next time, thanks for reading this Letter From Zimbabwe now in its 23rd year, and my books about life in Zimbabwe, a country in waiting.
All my books are now available on Amazon, Kindle and Lulu with the hardback version of my evocative Photo-books “Zimbabwe’s Timeless Beauty” (the 2021 and 2022 collections) on high gloss paper available exclusively on LULU. Visit my website for full details www.cathybuckle.co.zw or click here: www.lulu.com/spotlight/cathybuckle2018 or here www.amazon.com/author/catherinebuckle
President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s top ally Pedzisai Scott Sakupwanya’s Better Brands has reportedly continued conducting secret mining operations at Redwing Mine in Penhalonga, Manicaland, which led to two more deaths of artisanal miners on Monday.
The mine was closed in January by the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) over fatal accidents involving artisanal miners.
Manicaland police spokesperson Inspector Nobert Muzondo confirmed that two more deaths were reported on Monday.
“Police confirm the sudden death by trapping in Penhalonga on March 13, 2023, of Hardlife Dzamiti (21) of Chiware village under Chief Nyashanu, Buhera, who entered into a mine shaft 8 metres deep. While inside, a mudslide fell into the mineshaft, trapping him,” Muzondo said.
“On the same day Joshua Ncube from Harare died of suffocation. Police said the now-deceased Ncube was in the company of Terrence Magwara in a 13-metre deep mineshaft when he developed some difficulties in breathing and died.”
He added: “Mine deaths occur almost occasionally, the frequency is high because we have illegal miners who are sneaking into disused shafts. As police it is our call to those who are sneaking into the mineshafts to desist because the soils are loose because of the incessant rains.”
Centre for Research and Development director James Mupfumi said they were worried about recurrent deaths at Redwing Mine.
“Perpetrators of slave labour in mining pits at Redwing Mine are behind gold smuggling, tax evasion and environmental degradation and loss of lives in Penhalonga and we are worried,” he said.
Centre for Natural Resource Governance director Farai Maguwu said: “There is unsafe mining that is happening at the mine and that should be stopped.”
Better Brands officials could not be reached for comment.
Sakupwanya is a key Zanu-PF member and is expected to help finance the ruling party’s election campaign ahead of polls later this year.
By A Correspondent | ZANU PF President Emmerson Mnangagwa is flying to UK for King Charles’ coronation, ZimEye can reveal.
Sources at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the development to ZimEye which will be the Gukurahundi massacre architect’s first visit to London in over 20 years. It will also be his first to be a free man on UK soil since the UN COP26 conference when opposition protesters blocked him from drinking beer with his ZANU PF supporters in Glasgow.
The Coronation of The King and The Queen Consort will be marked with events across the country and a concert at Windsor Castle, Windsor castle announces. Their Majesties want to encourage people to spend the Coronation Weekend celebrating with friends, families and their communities.
The Coronation Service
The Coronation of The King and The Queen Consort will take place at Westminster Abbey on Saturday 6th May 2023.
The Service will be conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury and will reflect the Monarch’s role today and look towards the future, while being rooted in longstanding traditions and pageantry.
Their Majesties will arrive at Westminster Abbey in procession from Buckingham Palace, known as ‘The King’s Procession’.
Meanwhil, it is highly unlikely that Mnangagwa will be allowed a motorcade and he will most likely be most likely be confined to a bus like other African heads of state as was done when king Charles ascended the throne last year.
Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa has told his supporters to remain focused and not get distracted as the country heads towards general elections.
Chamisa’s remarks come after rival Douglas Mwonzora, leader of the opposition MDC-T party, filed an application at the Constitutional Court seeking nullification of the delimitation report saying it violates the constitution.
Mwonzora demanded that election dates must be announced only after the delimitation exercise has been re-done.
The CCC leader, however, told his supporters to remain focused saying the ConCourt application was another sideshow to distract and frustrate voters.
“Be vigilant, too many sideshows around. Do not be distracted. Do not get discouraged or frustrated.
“Some are afraid of your right to choose and decide your leaders. Some do not want you to exercise that right. Tell someone! #OnePlusFive#RegisterToVoteNow,” Chamisa posted on his official social media platforms.
Former Highfield legislator Psychology Maziwisa is rotting in prison while compatriot Wicknell Chivayo freely chops up the rest of the USD5mln payment he defrauded the same victim, Zimbabwe Power Company.
If the courts were fair, Wicknell would be in prison for over 3,600 years, using the same calculation. VIDEO:
Maziwisa is mounting a fresh appeal against his conviction and sentence for defrauding the Zimbabwe Power Company of US$6 250 in what he still argues should have been a civil case.
Maziwisa is serving an effective 42 months jail term after he was jointly convicted with former ZBC news anchor Oscar Pambuka for defrauding ZPC.
Through his lawyers, Venturas and Samkange, Maziwisa has since filed a notice of appeal after his application for condonation was granted by the High Court, which dismissed his previous appeal.
Maziwisa was initially jailed for 54 months before the magistrates court set aside 12 months of the term on condition that he paid back ZPC US$6 250 on or before January 31, 2019.
He once appealed against the conviction and sentence but it was dismissed by the High Court. The jail terms for Maziwisa and Pambuka were then confirmed.
In his fresh bid, Maziwisa said the magistrate’s court erred and misdirected itself in finding him guilty of the offence in his personal capacity when he was cited as a director representing the company, Fruitful Communications, in court papers.
He argues that the trial court failed to consider the fact that Fruitful Communications had done the work complained of and had discharged its contractual obligations, and then found Maziwisa guilty of fraud absent any intention, involvement or representations made directly and individually by him.
Maziwisa indicated that the sentence induced shock as the amount of prejudice was minimal.
He argued that the matter was civil as it contained breach of contractual agreements and remedies under civil law should have applied.-state media
By Collen Kajokoto | One night outside a book reading hall,
I met a lady in black coat standing ,
For books she wanted nothing to swap,
But I really wanted some directions.
“Got any time?” asked I.
For that’s how I’ll start my chat.
“No Taxi here!” said the lady.
She seemed to find it quite gentle.
“Over there we got to go ,
I’ll guide you a very fine walk .
I will not your destination require
I’d rather your dominion inquire.”
The woman blinked radiantly thrice.
She seemed exceptionally regular,
And her manner was strangely amused.
She wasn’t what I would call irregular,
Great courage she noticeably oozed.
Like others, she thought I was odd,
Some say I’m a bit boxed.
Still she gave me a courteous nod,
As if she thought I was plenty nobel.
So in search of my Uber we departed,
But before the driver could arrive,
The lady uttered sweetly full-hearted,
“We can meet again I believe.”
“Coffee, beer, we shall find.
You must now open your mind,
And get down Sunday to east Berlin “.
So to east Berlin Cafe I decided to go,
In search of the ally I craved.
The wind it did eerily blow.
But I felt that the day could be saved.
There only one cafe selling hot brew,
Black coffee in many shades.
There I entered to get a treat.
Coffee drinkers filled scattered from many trades.
I was greeted by a peculiar lady,
She seemed to be rather cosy
I couldn’t help thinking she might be quite witty.
I wondered if she was palaced.
Before I could open my mouth,
She whispered,
“For you, I have some beers!”
Both wanted an English bar talk.
I headed towards her, to the south chase,
Past the footbridge and some church.
“But how did you know?” I asked,
“Do you want beer or not?” she did say.
Silently, the wise waters she passed.
Then cheered before I could pay.
As I sat away from Anna’s breath
It satisfied my heart like Germany bread!
Her skin smelt like lemons in black tea!
The night closed in jealously swift
It saddened to hug and say goodbye .
“Maita basa”,were her last words
And she was swallowed into the night .
By Divine Mafa | Zimbabwe has been struggling with the concept of democracy for decades. The country has witnessed rigged elections, voter intimidation, bribery, and even killings of opposition supporters. The ruling party has also been accused of using religious organizations to sway voters in their favor. This has resulted in the destruction of the country’s economy and brought about international sanctions.
BITMAFA: Divine Mafa
Despite this, the people of Zimbabwe still yearn for democracy. However, it seems that the implementation of democracy in African countries is far more difficult than anticipated. Zimbabwe is a prime example of this. The country’s rulers have cheated elections and killed those who didn’t vote for them. They have bribed those who should vote for them and organized churches to threaten voters.
The struggle for democracy in Zimbabwe has been met with immense suffering. The country has been sanctioned by the international community, and its citizens have been subjected to violence and economic hardship. But what if Zimbabwe had a monarchy instead of a democratic government? Would the people still suffer as they do now?
Some argue that if Zimbabwe had a king, they would not have to go through the democratic process. There would be no elections, and people would not have to be forced to vote or killed for not voting. This would result in peace and stability for the country. In fact, countries like Saudi Arabia, which do not have elections, have a good relationship with the United States Of America. A protected eternity.
However, others argue that democracy is essential for the country’s growth and development. They believe that the struggle for democracy is worth it, even if it means suffering in the short term. They argue that democracy provides a platform for accountability and transparency, which is necessary for the country’s economic and social development.
In conclusion, the struggle for democracy in Zimbabwe is a complex issue that cannot be easily solved. The people of Zimbabwe want democracy, but the process of implementing it has been met with immense suffering. The idea of a monarchy as an alternative to democracy may seem tempting, but it is not a guaranteed solution. Ultimately, the people of Zimbabwe must decide what form of governance best suits their needs and aspirations.
“BITMAFA” Devine Mafa is a renowned Bitcoin idea mind, designer of Hende Beluga car, and a biomechanics and ergonomist with a background in rehabilitative and investment technologies. His organization seeks to promote education and awareness on emerging technologies, while advocating for responsible adoption and usage.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commision has flashed out the University Of Zimbabwe Registration Centre to Mt Pleasant High School, ZINASU’s legal secretary, Boris Muguti complains. He continues saying this done: “so that they frustrate students, demotivate them and stop them from registering to vote.” FULL TEXT
Instead of putting a centre at UZ for the final voter registration Blitz they had to put it at Mt Pleasant High (about 1.5km from UZ) so that they frustrate students, demotivate them and stop them from registering to vote. This alone reflects that ZEC is a biased referee. pic.twitter.com/mFFa2sDTOZ
By-Mozambique has announced visa exemption for 28 countries, mainly for tourism and business visits.
The exemption applies to visitors holding ordinary passports and allows for a 30-day stay, and it is renewable for an additional 60 days.
The model adopted by the Mozambican government is similar to the United States visa waiver programme, which also requires travellers to register on a platform for pre-screening at least 48 hours before travelling and to pay a processing fee of MZN650 (+/- £8.50).
The visa exemption announcement follows the launch of a platform in December last year that allowed prospective visitors to apply for an electronic pre-authorization to travel into the country.
Mozambique announces visa exemption for 28 countries in the wake of the introduction of the Mozambican e-Visa which reportedly has seen an increase of over 30% in the volume of travellers entering the country compared to the same period in the previous year.
The Council of Ministers approved the decree, according to FurtherAfrica. Reported the publication:
The eVisa platform commits the country to respond to applications within 5 days, but general feedback places an average response at 24 hours and the few issues reported are usually created by users not uploading the required documentation.
As Mozambique announces visa exemption for 28 countries, it advances measure 13 (which proposes changes for the Visa regime) of the Economic Acceleration Measures Package (PAE) announced by President Nyusi on August 2022.
The package contained 20 reform measures aimed to deliver a path for a more competitive and more accessible country to visitors and investors alike.
The stimulus package implementation is coordinated by a delivery unit created for the effect under the country’s Ministry of Economy and Finance.
By Farai D Hove | Zimbabwean citizens are nowhere to be seen as nationals of other countries, Kenya, Nigeria, Tunisia and South Africa Plan mass demonstrations on the 20th March.
The development brought an array of explanations with some analysts accusing the opposition while others said Zimbabweans don’t need to demonstrate as the economy is doing all that for them.
In South Africa, EFF party leader Julius Malema plans to execute a demonstration that he says will lead to the removal of President Cyril Ramaphosa who is accused of money laundering after over USD4 million in foreign currency was stolen from a concealed location at the president’s farm, PalaPala.
By- Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) vice chairman Job Sikhala refused to speak in court on Tuesday when he appeared before a Harare magistrate.
Sikhala, the Zengeza West MP, is accused of inciting public violence and obstructing the course of justice in connection with clashes that rocked Nyatsime following the murder of activist Moreblessing Ali in June 2022. Sikhala’s trial commenced at Rotten Row without him being represented. According to Sikhala’s spokesperson, Freddy Michael Masarurevu, his lawyers were in the High Court and the magistrate refused postponement arguing that it cannot work with the diary of the lawyers. Sikhala refused to speak and the court entered a not guilty plea. Said Masarurevu: Drama at Rotten Row as Sikhala’s trial commences without him being represented. His legal practitioners were in the High Court & the Court refused postponement arguing that it cannot work with the diary of the lawyers. Sikhala has refused to speak. Court has entered a not guilty plea.
By-President Emmerson Mnangagwa handed over new cars to 38 newly installed chiefs during an annual chiefs’ conference held in Bulawayo on Wednesday.
The conference is being held under the theme, “Cultural Foundation for Community Development”.
Mnangagwa promised the traditional leaders that his administration will improve their living conditions.
He also challenged the chiefs and headman to ensure they defend their land ahead of the general elections.
The President promised the traditional leaders that the government will construct access roads to their homesteads, and provide them with medical aid cover, clean water and solar energy. CITE quoted Mnangagwa as saying:
Our voters are under you since you have come in numbers, I hope you have trust in me, if you had no trust in me you were not going to come in big numbers.
Since you have trust in the second republic, we have trust in you traditional leaders in that you have to defend our land.
You have to defend the identity and the respect of the African person.
The rest of the country’s chiefs are set to receive their cars in batches.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has arrived in Bulawayo where he will attend the 2023 National Chiefs Conference this Wednesday.
He was welcomed at the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport by cabinet ministers, senior Government officials, the ZANU PF leadership and supporters.
He will meet with 500 headmen and 290 traditional chiefs.- ZBC News
By Dorrothy Moyo | A self proclaimed Zimbabwean prophet has claimed that the nation is soon to be hit by a major national funeral.
The man, Orasi Sos, said this will be the death of a hero.
Last month he was accused of making familiar utterances based on obvious death predictions.
Sos said “A very big national funeral coming to Harare,this one is a hero.” He did not provide any further detail.
His statement comes at a time when “Prophecy” predictions were more and more becoming a career for jobless Zimbabweans, with many oracles turning out to be probability guesswork.
The statements also come at a time when there was competition between the so called prophets over who is telling the truth, such as:
……
Talent Chiwenga
Talent Chiwenga who says he is the only person who speaks genuinely for God, the only voice in Zimbabwe announcing accurate predictions.
“The govt was supposed to invite the church, us, and me in particular, because I happen to be the only voice in Zimbabwe that speaks genuinely for God. (Video below inside article).
Is this true?
Talent Chiwenga
Apostle Chiwenga while Mocking Mayor Mafume, says: I Speak The Mind Of God, I'm Just Like Hopewell, I'm Just Like Joshua Nkomo, I've Got More Followers Than You Can Ever Have, Mayor Mafume Is Naïve, Opposition Is Infiltrated, Car Accident Was Not Ordinary pic.twitter.com/LT5YQwNWLK
And where are the two coffins?-What happened to the 90 days of back November 2018 ? And where is Joab, where is Adonijah? – After failing to predict the Coronavirus and other plagues, the preacher who once claimed ZANU PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa did not send soldiers to shoot people on the 1st of August 2018 (saying that God told him so, contradicting several LIVE video broadcasts of Mnangagwa literally doing it), Talent Chiwenga has said he is the only voice of God in the country.
“The government was supposed to invite the church, us, and me in particular, because I happen to be the only voice in Zimbabwe that speaks genuinely for God. (Video)
“You may hate me for all I care, but this is the truth.
“When they invite these people that they call prophets, men of God, bishops, they invite them to ratify the ungodly acts they are doing against the citizens and these so called men of God, the bishops , the prophets, they do not have the voice of God in them they have not heard from God.” – Talent Chiwenga
Meanwhile, the people of Kuwadzana, Harare were the worst brutalised by soldiers in August 2018 when Emmerson Mnangagwa deployed the army to kill many while changing election results, and on the 4th August local clinics told ZimEye.com of how military trucks would arrive at night and officers begin assaulting residents. Being reminded of these atrocities could not be any more hurting.
A soldier clearly fires live ammunition at protesting citizensSoldiers move in to disperse crowds of opposition Movement for Democratic Change supporters outside the party’s headquarters in Harare, Zimbabwe, August 1, 2018. REUTERS/Mike HutchingsAn armed soldier points his gun at an innocent aged vendor
THE ZANU PF Security Department has begun vetting CVs for prospective candidates for the ruling party primary elections slated for this weekend, which will be submitted to Politburo for consideration and endorsement.
In a bid to come up with a robust process for the primary elections, the revolutionary ZANU PF party members willing to participate in the forthcoming elections will have their CVs put under scrutiny by the party’s security department.
Briefing journalists at the party headquarters in Harare this Tuesday, ZANU PF National Political Commissar Dr Mike Bimha said the security department is working around the clock to meet set deadlines.
“The security department has commenced on the vetting exercise from now onwards. Because of the time constraints, we now have to work 24 hours around the clock to meet the deadline. The department is looking at the submissions and doing the vetting.
“After that, tomorrow at 5pm we will have a special committee that will look at the complaints and make their recommendations, some of the complaints will be dealt with promptly. Once we have recommendations by the security department, we will have to convene the National elections directorate to consider all the work done,” he said.
According to Dr Bimha, cell registers which will be used as voters’ rolls in the primary elections have been submitted.
“As you are aware, we have been doing parallel programmes including cell building and verification exercise, we now have complete cell registers to be used in the primary elections,” he said.
On Thursday, the ZANU PF National Elections Directorate is expected to brief leadership on the process for further guidance, while the technical committee is already working on logistics for the elections.
After party leadership is briefed, a politburo meeting will be convened to endorse the successful candidates to participate in the primary elections. – ZBC News
ZANU PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday handed over 20 of the 28 vehicles to traditional leaders, among them the inaugural Chief Goledema of the San community in Tsholotsho District, Mr Christopher Dube, as part of Government’s ongoing programme to ensure chiefs are mobile.
The San community chose Mr Christopher Dube as the inaugural chief, in 2021.
Chief Goledema is named after his grandfather, a respected rainmaker and senior traditionalist who reportedly resisted white rule in Tsholotsho during the colonial era.
According to the San customs and socio-political organisation, they have no succession structure. It was, therefore, agreed that Mr Dube, by being a descendant of Goledema, takes the inaugural chieftainship.
Traditional leaders who got vehicles, Isuzu twin cab vehicles, are a fifth batch of chiefs who have benefited from the Government’s ongoing programme. The fourth group received 18 cars in May 2021.
In Matabeleland South, traditional leaders who got the vehicles include Chief Maduna of Insiza District, Chief Manguba of Bulilima District, Chief Mathe of Umzingwane District and Chief Masuku of Matobo District.Others who received the cars in Matabeleland North are Chief Menyezwa of Lupane District, Chief Mahlathini of Tsholotsho District, Chief Kavula, Chief Sikalenge and Chief Sinamagonde all from Binga District.
Some chiefs from Manicaland, Masvingo and the Midlands provinces also received their cars.
The remaining eight vehicles for chiefs from the three Mashonaland provinces will be handed over by the President in Harare.
Speaking before the handover ceremony, President Mnangagwa said all the country’s 291 chiefs will receive the cars for their use as they traverse areas of their jurisdiction meeting communities. Mobility is key for chiefs to deliver their traditional mandates.
“We have 291 chiefs and all of them will get vehicles. We also got a grant from the government of the People’s Republic of China for the construction of a new Parliament building,” he said.
“We will soon vacate the current building and create office space for the National Council of Chiefs.”
Local Government and Public Works Minister July Moyo said the vehicles will go a long way in ensuring that traditional leaders were empowered and enhance their integrity in society.
Chiefs in Matabeleland, in the Midlands and Masvingo, will get 20 cars while remaining ones in some districts in Manicaland, Mashonaland East, Mashonaland Central and Mashonaland West will find their cars in Harare,” he said.
“These cars were given to chiefs who had not yet received their allocations since their installation as substantive chiefs. We have 10 more cars that are ready to be distributed to chiefs who are waiting to be installed.”
Minister Moyo said some chiefs who received cars in January 2018 will soon get new cars to replace the old ones.
Mr Dube thanked the Government under the Second Republic for recognising the San community and championing their equal participation in national development under its broad-based empowerment programmes.
“As the new Chief Goledema of the San community, this vehicle will go a long way in speeding up Government programmes. For a long time, we were marginalised until the advent of the Second Republic,” he said.- state media
State media- The controversial businessman, Mr Wicknell Chivayo’s Intratrek Zimbabwe is planning to forge ahead with the 100MW Gwanda Solar Project after a Harare magistrate this week ruled that there had been an unreasonable delay in its implementation.
8yrs Later, Chivayo Says I'm Now Building Gwanda Solar Plant
Mr Chivayo and his company were on Monday acquitted of misappropriating US$5,6 million for allegedly abandoning the solar project.
In an interview, Mr Chivayo said Intratrek was offering an immediate solution by financing the first phase of the project of 10MW using its internal resources.
He said the balance of 90MW would be implemented through debt financing over an 18-month period.
“My acquittal and that of Intratrek had two critical implications on the Gwanda Solar Project. As you would be aware, ZPC had attempted to cancel the EPC contract for the Gwanda Solar project in 2019, alleging among other things that there had been fraudulent misuse of the funds paid towards the pre-commencement works.
“The acquittal, therefore, vindicates us from any wrongdoing but most importantly demonstrates that Intratrek performed its obligations under the EPC contract in full.
“In fact, the Magistrates Court confirmed that Intratrek over-delivered by US$609 000, a fact that corrects the misconception that funds were used for purposes other than towards the solar project,” Mr Chivayo said.
The businessman said the acquittal placed beyond doubt that there was no basis for the cancellation of the project in the first place.
Recently, the High Court passed a judgment in favour of Intratrek which declared the EPC contract valid.
The court also ordered ZPC to implement the project resulting in ZPC filing an appeal to the Supreme Court.
“However, what I can confirm without much disclosure is that there is a common understanding that the solar project must be implemented as a matter of urgency,” Mr Chivayo said.
“The country has been reeling under 18-hour episodes of load shedding. The industry is being adversely affected and the consequences on the economy are catastrophic.
“Intratrek is offering an immediate solution to finance the first phase of the project of 10MW using its internal resources. This bridge-financing proposal has been presented to the relevant authorities and is receiving urgent consideration.”
Mr Chivayo said as Intratrek, they were committed to restoring goodwill in the Gwanda Solar Project thus they proposed to self-finance the first phase.
“We will, however, require certain guarantees on repayment of this bridge finance framework, especially considering that the loan to the utility will be in United States dollars,” he said.
“It only makes sense for the securities to guarantee repayment in US dollars. Once this has been finalised and all security for payment agreements have been signed, Intratrek is prepared to immediately finance the first phase of 10MW within a period of six months.
“We are therefore very confident that the ongoing discussions will yield in the resumption of the solar project for the benefit of the country at large.”-state media
A Harare man yesterday appeared in court for allegedly beating up Zimbabwe Electoral Commission officials who were on duty conducting voter education in Epworth.
Kudakwashe Damson (39) appeared before Harare provincial magistrate Mr Dennis Mangosi facing charges of contravening the Electoral Act by obstructing ZEC proceedings. He was remanded to April 5 on $50 000 bail.
The State led by Ms Grace Mugocheke alleged that on Saturday, near Kubatana Primary School in Epworth, Damson was driving a Nissan Caravan vehicle in the company of two others, who are still at large.
He drove close to where ZEC officials were conducting voter education, stopped, and then grabbed Alerta Madzivanyika, a female ZEC official, and kicked her behind.
He proceeded to accost Mercy Mutendedzwa and assaulted her on the neck and also tore the ZEC bib worn by Bernard Gwishiri. Damson also ordered Tendai Matauya to remove her bib as well.
The State will seek to prove that Damson forced the four ZEC officials into his car and drove them to Epworth police station where he left them.
THE ZANU PF Security Department has begun vetting CVs for prospective candidates for the ruling party primary elections slated for this weekend, which will be submitted to Politburo for consideration and endorsement.
In a bid to come up with a robust process for the primary elections, the revolutionary ZANU PF party members willing to participate in the forthcoming elections will have their CVs put under scrutiny by the party’s security department.
Briefing journalists at the party headquarters in Harare this Tuesday, ZANU PF National Political Commissar Dr Mike Bimha said the security department is working around the clock to meet set deadlines.
“The security department has commenced on the vetting exercise from now onwards. Because of the time constraints, we now have to work 24 hours around the clock to meet the deadline. The department is looking at the submissions and doing the vetting.
“After that, tomorrow at 5pm we will have a special committee that will look at the complaints and make their recommendations, some of the complaints will be dealt with promptly. Once we have recommendations by the security department, we will have to convene the National elections directorate to consider all the work done,” he said.
According to Dr Bimha, cell registers which will be used as voters’ rolls in the primary elections have been submitted.
“As you are aware, we have been doing parallel programmes including cell building and verification exercise, we now have complete cell registers to be used in the primary elections,” he said.
On Thursday, the ZANU PF National Elections Directorate is expected to brief leadership on the process for further guidance, while the technical committee is already working on logistics for the elections.
After party leadership is briefed, a politburo meeting will be convened to endorse the successful candidates to participate in the primary elections. – ZBC News
Former Highfield legislator Psychology Maziwisa is rotting in prison while compatriot Wicknell Chivayo freely chops up the rest of the USD5mln payment he defrauded the same victim, Zimbabwe Power Company.
If the courts were fair, Wicknel would be in prison for over 3,600 years, using the same calculation. VIDEO:
Maziwisa is mounting a fresh appeal against his conviction and sentence for defrauding the Zimbabwe Power Company of US$6 250 in what he still argues should have been a civil case.
Maziwisa is serving an effective 42 months jail term after he was jointly convicted with former ZBC news anchor Oscar Pambuka for defrauding ZPC.
Through his lawyers, Venturas and Samkange, Maziwisa has since filed a notice of appeal after his application for condonation was granted by the High Court, which dismissed his previous appeal.
Maziwisa was initially jailed for 54 months before the magistrates court set aside 12 months of the term on condition that he paid back ZPC US$6 250 on or before January 31, 2019.
He once appealed against the conviction and sentence but it was dismissed by the High Court. The jail terms for Maziwisa and Pambuka were then confirmed.
In his fresh bid, Maziwisa said the magistrate’s court erred and misdirected itself in finding him guilty of the offence in his personal capacity when he was cited as a director representing the company, Fruitful Communications, in court papers.
He argues that the trial court failed to consider the fact that Fruitful Communications had done the work complained of and had discharged its contractual obligations, and then found Maziwisa guilty of fraud absent any intention, involvement or representations made directly and individually by him.
Maziwisa indicated that the sentence induced shock as the amount of prejudice was minimal.
He argued that the matter was civil as it contained breach of contractual agreements and remedies under civil law should have applied.-state media
Tinashe Sambiri|CCC leader President Nelson Chamisa has implored the uniformed forces to be strong, objective and non-partisan in the execution of respective duties.
In a statement on Twitter, the CCC leader called for due diligence and unwavering professionalism among the uniformed forces.
“Dear Civil servants & our uniformed patriotic officers;I know what you are going through. Be strong, non-partisan and remain loyal to Zimbabwe and its citizens. Professionalism first not Cadreship.The darkest hour is just before dawn.The sun will soon rise in Zimbabwe. #OnePeople,” President Chamisa posted on Twitter.
“Dear Zimbabwe; It’s possible to get our country working & great again. It’s possible to wake up to a rewarding job in a Zimbabwe with a capable state,its own currency, electricity,water,high speed internet and the best roads, schools & hospitals. It’s possible. #RegisterToVoteNow,” added the CCC leader.
Controversial hip-hop artist Mukudzei Chitsamapopularly ,known as Holy Ten, is crashing on CCC spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere in spite of glaring ideological differences as well as the wide age gap.
Holy Ten ( 24) stunned all and sundry when he expressed a burning desire to date Mahere( 37).
The controversial musician described Mahere as a cute lady, much to the chagrin of CCC sympathisers.
Holy Ten wrote on Twitter: “Fadzi Mahere kinda cute! Can I take you out for dinner nhai @advocatemahere.”
See below responses to Holy Ten’s sentiments:
Malacchi Chimonyo:
“Iwe bhangu usaite sezvinonzi ndiwe watanga kuendesa munhu kulunch…Why should we noe everything including paunokosora chaipo zvoshamisei zvelunch izvo Unoti vese vakanyarara havasikuenda kumaluch hre.”
A first-of-its-kind World Health Organization (WHO) Global report on sodium intake reduction shows that the world is off-track to achieve its global target of reducing sodium intake by 30% by 2025.
Sodium, an essential nutrient, increases the risk of heart disease, stroke and premature death when eaten in excess. The main source of sodium is table salt (sodium chloride), but it is also contained in other condiments such as sodium glutamate. The report shows that only 5% of WHO Member States are protected by mandatory and comprehensive sodium reduction policies and 73% of WHO Member States lack full range of implementation of such policies.
Implementing highly cost-effective sodium reduction policies could save an estimated 7 million lives globally by 2030. It is an important component of action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal target of reducing deaths from noncommunicable diseases. But today, only nine countries (Brazil, Chile, Czech Republic, Lithuania, Malaysia, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Spain and Uruguay) have a comprehensive package of recommended policies to reduce sodium intake.
“Unhealthy diets are a leading cause of death and disease globally, and excessive sodium intake is one of the main culprits,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “This report shows that most countries are yet to adopt any mandatory sodium reduction policies, leaving their people at risk of heart attack, stroke, and other health problems. WHO calls on all countries to implement the ‘Best Buys’ for sodium reduction, and on manufacturers to implement the WHO benchmarks for sodium content in food.”
A comprehensive approach to sodium reduction includes adopting mandatory policies and WHO’s four “best buy” interventions related with sodium which greatly contribute to preventing noncommunicable diseases. These include:
Reformulating foods to contain less salt, and setting targets for the amount of sodium in foods and meals Establishing public food procurement policies to limit salt or sodium rich foods in public institutions such as hospitals, schools, workplaces and nursing homes Front-of-package labelling that helps consumers select products lower in sodium Behaviour change communication and mass media campaigns to reduce salt/sodium consumption Countries are encouraged to establish sodium content targets for processed foods, in line with the WHO Global Sodium Benchmarks and enforce them though these policies.
Mandatory sodium reduction policies are more effective, as they achieve broader coverage and safeguard against commercial interests, while providing a level playing field for food manufacturers. As part of the report, WHO developed a Sodium country score card for Member States based on the type and number of sodium reduction policies they have in place.
“This important report demonstrates that countries must work urgently to implement ambitious, mandatory, government-led sodium reduction policies to meet the global target of reducing salt consumption by 2025,” said Dr Tom Frieden, President and CEO of Resolve to Save Lives, a not-for-profit organization working with countries to prevent 100 million deaths from cardiovascular disease over 30 years. “There are proven measures that governments can implement and important innovations, such as low sodium salts. The world needs action, and now, or many more people will experience disabling or deadly—but preventable—heart attacks and strokes.”
The global average salt intake is estimated to be 10.8 grams per day, more than double the WHO recommendation of less than 5 grams of salt per day (one teaspoon). Eating too much salt makes it the top risk factor for diet and nutrition-related deaths. More evidence is emerging documenting links between high sodium intake and increased risk of other health conditions such as gastric cancer, obesity, osteoporosis and kidney disease.
WHO calls on Member States to implement sodium intake reduction policies without delay and to mitigate the harmful effects of excessive salt consumption. WHO also calls on food manufacturers to set ambitious sodium reduction targets in their products.
To read the report, visit: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240069985
Mwonzora’s fear of getting zeros votes forces him to file court application to stop harmonized elections
14th March 2023
Wezhira Munya
Earlier today, MDC T president Douglas Douglas Mwonzora, has filed a Constitutional Court application seeking the deferment of the upcoming harmonized elections.
(See the attached copy of Mwonzora’s court application).
Fear to get zero votes during 2023 harmonized elections has forced MDC T Mwonzora to approach high court to stop elections.
Reports from Masvingo show that MDC T under Mwonzora is failing to get candidates to represent it in areas such as Mwenezi, Chiredzi, Masvingo West among others.
In many provinces MDC does not have members or supporters.
MDC T under Mwonzora has disintegrated after many splits. Currently, another part of MDC is being led by Mudzuri.
To avoid embarrassment, Mwonzora has decided to stop elections through courts.
In the moment of excitement last year, Mwonzora declared that he will win 2023 elections by 66%.
However, reality after by elections has proved that MDC T under Mwonzora will not win even one council seat
Mwonzora’s fear of getting zeros votes forces him to file court application to stop harmonized elections
14th March 2023
Wezhira Munya
Earlier today, MDC T president Douglas Douglas Mwonzora, has filed a Constitutional Court application seeking the deferment of the upcoming harmonized elections.
(See the attached copy of Mwonzora’s court application).
Fear to get zero votes during 2023 harmonized elections has forced MDC T Mwonzora to approach high court to stop elections.
Reports from Masvingo show that MDC T under Mwonzora is failing to get candidates to represent it in areas such as Mwenezi, Chiredzi, Masvingo West among others.
In many provinces MDC does not have members or supporters.
MDC T under Mwonzora has disintegrated after many splits. Currently, another part of MDC is being led by Mudzuri.
To avoid embarrassment, Mwonzora has decided to stop elections through courts.
In the moment of excitement last year, Mwonzora declared that he will win 2023 elections by 66%.
However, reality after by elections has proved that MDC T under Mwonzora will not win even one council seat
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has arrived in Bulawayo where he will attend the 2023 National Chiefs Conference this Wednesday.
He was welcomed at the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport by cabinet ministers, senior Government officials, the ZANU PF leadership and supporters.
He will meet with 500 headmen and 290 traditional chiefs.- ZBC News
By- Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) vice chairman Job Sikhala refused to speak in court on Tuesday when he appeared before a Harare magistrate.
Sikhala, the Zengeza West MP, is accused of inciting public violence and obstructing the course of justice in connection with clashes that rocked Nyatsime following the murder of activist Moreblessing Ali in June 2022. Sikhala’s trial commenced at Rotten Row without him being represented. According to Sikhala’s spokesperson, Freddy Michael Masarurevu, his lawyers were in the High Court and the magistrate refused postponement, arguing that it cannot work with the diary of the lawyers. Sikhala refused to speak and the court entered a not guilty plea. Said Masarurevu: Drama at Rotten Row as Sikhala’s trial commences without him being represented. His legal practitioners were in the High Court & the Court refused postponement arguing that it cannot work with the diary of the lawyers. Sikhala has refused to speak. Court has entered a not guilty plea.
SUSPENDED Gweru City Town Clerk Vakayi Chikwekwe who was arrested for allegedly violating tender procedures resulting in companies Shesham, Cacas and Wackdrive winning tenders to service stands in the city believes he is being persecuted for liking Zanu PF.
Chikwekwe says he had no capacity to award the tenders as it was a resolution by a full council meeting and his arrest is the work of councillors from the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change who are fighting him for spearheading people centered policies in the city.
His lawyer Admire Rubaya of Rubaya and Chatambudza Legal Practitioners has written to the Prosecutor General Nelson Mutsonziwa to reconsider the decision to prosecute him based on “false allegations.”
“Our client is left to believe the whispers that he has heard that Councillors from the Citizens’ Coalition for Change were boasting and celebrating that they had used ZACC to fight the only person who is regarded as a “ZanuPF policies proponent” without them realising that they are being misused and abused.
“Our client instructs that there are certain quarters within Gweru City Council who dislike him with a passion because he, just like the ZANUPF government which is people-centred, was clearly propagating peoplecentred policies to the chagrin of some of the members of the opposition who do not want to see ZANUPF snatching Council seats within Gweru City Council,” the letter reads.
The lawyers said Chikwekwe had no role in the awarding of the tenders and questioned the decision to leave other people including the former Mayor who signed as the council representative while targeting him only.
They argue that there is nothing criminal on Chikwekwe’s part and he is just a victim of abuse by individuals through the justice delivery system and Zacc.
“One then wonders if for one second it was criminal conduct for a council employee to comply with a full Council’s Resolution why he was the only one who was arrested. Is it because he is not a member of the Citizens Coalition for Change or he a member of the Movement for Democratic Change?
“He wonders why ZACC only targeted him in circumstances where even the current Mayor of Gweru Mr Hamutendi Kombayi took to the residents’ whatsapp platform group [6UPRARDA] to castigate our client’s arrest relating to the tender in question,” the lawyers wrote.
It is their argument that Chikwekwe cannot be held criminally liable for awarding tenders which is outside his duties and all he did was to follow council resolution.
“Mr V. D. Chikwekwe cannot assume collective criminal liability on behalf of the full council in circumstances where the Town Clerk is not the one who made the decision to award the tender. Therefore, our client cannot be held criminally liable for awarding a tender that he did not award.
“The allegation that our client unilaterally awarded the tender in question is actually false. Therefore, our client was clearly placed on remand on the basis of false information. “In any event, our client is not the one who notified the successful bidders of their success in getting the tender. The successful bidders were actually notified by Engineer Robson Manatsa,” the letter reads.
The lawyers have appealed to the legal minds in the National Prosecuting Authority to have a close analysis of the matter before March 17 when Chikwekwe returns to court for routine remand.
“Thus, with respect, this is one of those matters where we defer to your legal expertise in criminal matters as Honourable Prosecutor General, together with your team of brilliant legal practitioners for purposes of considering the evidence as discovered herein and our submissions so that you make an informed decision whether this is a matter worthy proceeding with or this is another wild goose chase which case will fall like a deck of cards,” the lawyers said.
A fresh storm is brewing over this year’s general elections after opposition MDC-T leader Douglas Mwonzora and his party yesterday dragged President Emmerson Mnangagwa to the High Court to stop proclamation of election dates because of the controversy surrounding the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec)’s delimitation report.
Mwonzora is seeking a High Court determination to have the matter referred to the Constitutional Court (ConCourt).
Mnangagwa gazetted the much-criitcised delimitation report on February 20 and elections are expected to be held by August 26.
In an urgent chamber application to have the case heard at the ConCourt, the MDC-T leader said the delimitation report should be declared null and void for failing to satisfy constitutional requirements.
“… we seek a declaratur declaring the delimitation report prepared by first respondent (Zec) and gazetted by second respondent (Mnangagwa) on February 20 null and void for not being in accordance with provisions of section 161 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe,” Mwonzora submitted.
He cited Zec, Mnangagwa, Justice minister Ziyambi Ziyambi and the Attorney-General’s Office as the respondents.
Section 161(11) of the Constitution lays down procedures for delimitation and what the President should do after receiving the final delimitation report from Zec.
The section says wards and constituencies should so far as possible have equal numbers of voters by using a correct formula during delimitation.
Zec has been accused of using a wrong formula to calculate voter variations, resulting in some constituencies having more than 20 000 voters while others have less.
“Applicant also seeks an order for consequential relief in the form of a mandamus (a judicial writ issued as a command to an inferior court or ordering a person to perform a public or statutory duty) directing the first respondent to conduct a fresh exercise of delimitation in compliance with the dictates and requirements of section 161 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, and in particular to base the report on a final population census report,” Mwonzora said.
“Applicants further seek consequential relief directing second respondent not to proclaim elections before the first respondent has prepared a delimitation report that is in compliance with section 161 of the constitution of Zimbabwe.”
Mnangagwa last week hinted that general elections would be held in August, but Mwonzora argues that the country cannot have a free and fair election with a contested delimitation report.
“The constitutional matter that this application seeks is whether the first respondent’s delimitation report and the gazetting of it done by the second respondent meet the constitutional test in terms of whether they comply with the requirements of section 161 of the Constitution,” he said.
“Once it is held not to have been complied with the constitutional requirement, the other mater is whether if the delimitation report is invalid, and election that depends on it can be held and if an election is held, it will meet the standard of freeness and fairness and universal adult suffrage and equality of votes contemplated in section 155.”
The delimitation report has been trashed by election watchdogs, opposition parties, data analysts as well as some shadowy Zanu PF groupings as bogus.
They accuse Zec of gerrymandering and using a wrong formula to redraw electoral boundaries.
The opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) South Africa (SA) branch on Monday conducted a “go home to vote” campaign march and rally in the neighbouring country as part of its voter mobilisation efforts.
The campaign, aimed at mobilising Zimbabweans to troop back home and register to vote for CCC leader Nelson Chamisa in this year’s polls, was held in Hillbrow, Johannesburg.
Chamisa is viewed as the biggest contender against President Emmerson Mnangagwa who won a disputed election in 2018.
Videos that circulated on social media yesterday showed CCC members carrying placards and flags, while members of the South Africa Police Services (Saps) escorted them.
In the videos, one of the campaigners, who was using a hailer speaker, is heard speaking in Ndebele saying: “Isikhathi sesifikile MaZimbabwean kasambeni siyo vota. Kangene, Kangene umfana. Asambeni siyovota sifuna inguquko” (The time has come Zimbabweans, let us go home to vote. The young man (Chamisa) must come into power. We want change).”
African National Congress (ANC) Hillbrow councillor, who only identified herself as Zanele said some South African leaders were educated in Zimbabwe.
“So we also want our neighbours to have a good life. Therefore, we support the CCC.”
CCC SA spokesperson Ernest Arnold Chinyuke said: “We want to state that the campaign which happened in Hillbrow was not only there, but was all over SA. As CCC, we are encouraging Zimbabweans to go to register to vote. This campaign is inspired by the numbers of Zimbabweans who are in SA. We are close to three million Zimbabweans in SA. Everyone must go back home to vote.”
“The CCC in every SA district is preparing transport to ferry people to Beitbridge to register to vote. Due to security reasons, we will not disclose when people will be ferried to register to vote.
“The campaign started with 300 plus people, but ended up with over 5 000. It made a very serious impact with people expressing keen interest to register to vote.”
The CCC SA branch is seeking to take advantage of the on-going Zimbabwe Electoral Commission voter registration blitz which will end on March 21.
Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi is reportedly toying with the idea of scrapping passport requirements for Zimbabweans entering his country, saying production of national identity cards will be enough to allow for cross-border travel.
According to Botswana newspaper, The Parrot, Masisi told democrats attending the Boteti West constituency celebrations at the weekend that he would discuss the matter with his Zimbabwean counterpart President Emmerson Mnangagwa when they meet soon.
“President Mokgweetsi Masisi has just revealed that in a few months’ time, he will be meeting his Zimbabwean counterpart Emmerson Mnangagwa on a visit where he will make sure they discuss the use of identity cards for border crossing among the two countries,” wrote The Parrot newspaper.
Last month, Masisi sealed a similar deal with Namibian President Hage Geingob, allowing for nationals from the two countries to cross the borders using national identity cards.
Most Zimbabweans migrate to Botswana as economic refugees seeking employment, while others visit specifically for shopping.
Part 2 : Financing of Political Parties Campaigning in Zimbabwe
By Ignatious Sadziwa and Tinashe Gumbo
Background
Funding plays a central role in any election campaign and is a key factor in determining the availability of a candidate and to a greater extent, influences the outcome of election results. The nature and importance of resources in African political processes in general and Zimbabwe in particular, dominate public discussions. Yet, according to Ohman (2016), “there is still very little information about how money is raised and spent by political parties and election campaigns, the relationship between politicians and voters is often based on clientelistic ties, and there is little oversight and enforcement of formal regulations”.
ELECTION TIME
The discussion in this article builds on a previous piece penned by one of the current authors on Political Parties Financing in Zimbabwe. It is a direct response to a call by some stakeholders for transparency and accountability in the financing of election campaigns. The study noted the general feeling in Zimbabwe, that the election playing field is not level emanating from the financing model of the campaigns. We discuss the available framework in Zimbabwe that governs election campaign financing and the limitations it has with regard to transparency and accountability. Based on findings by the current authors and various other election stakeholders, we then reinforce some recommendations already proffered, particularly through previous elections observation mission reports.
What is Political Parties Financing
The International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) defines Political finance as “how political parties finance their regular activities, how parties, candidates, and non-contestants raise and spend money for election campaigns, and how this funding and spending is regulated and disclosed”. While money appears to be at the center of the discussions around political parties financing, it is critical to note that “financing” can also entail other non-monetary efforts, particularly with regard to election campaigns.
Thus, the role of money in politics can include many other activities. Costs relating to election campaigns, party routine processes, meetings, payment to suppliers, litigation costs for politically relevant cases, and many more, are examples of political party financing. Ohman (2013) noted that the multifaceted nature of this definition creates problems for legislation and enforcement aimed at the promotion of accountability and transparency. In attempting to address the limitations of the definition, one can open other loopholes in political party financing.
Why Citizens Should be Conscious of Political Parties Financing
Money is at the center of political processes, particularly during campaign seasons. It facilitates the relationship between potential public officials and the public. Money is an integral part of politics and its influence can be positive or negative to the democratic life of a society. The success and integrity of any given election are majorly hinged on the availability (or lack) of resources. We often talk of free and fair elections, democratic politics, effective governance, and corruption and all this is influenced by money in politics.
Yet, political party financing should also be viewed as part of public policy matters discourse. This explains why it has to be regulated as a way of promoting transparency and accountability and indeed, an equal playing field for political players. Sufficient money can allow a political party to reach out to the electorate but at the same time, it can skew the electoral competition. Furthermore, after every election resources are required to facilitate effective dialogue between the elected and the citizens, and this aspect is often ignored in political party financing discussions.
In general terms, the main objectives of regulating political parties and campaign resources are: to promote transparency in how resources are raised and utilized, to stop corrupt practices in the name of politics, to limit the impact of money in electoral processes as well as to counter the abuse of public resources. Therefore, political financing is not limited to disclosure. It covers regulation, oversight, and monitoring of contributions, spending, bans, and limits of resources in a political process.
Transparency and Accountability as Vehicles of Election Credibility
Transparency and accountability are very important factors when determining the credibility of elections in a democratic society. Political parties must publicly declare their financial books for public scrutiny. This is very important so as to safeguard against vices like money laundering, state capture, and corruption. In South Africa for example, in the run-up to the 2019 general elections, the African National Congress (ANC) and the South African President are alleged to have received R500 000 in campaign donations from Gordon Watson, the Founder of Bosasa, a business entity. This development did not go down well with the country’s electorate as it had the potential to open doors for state capture. What was untoward about this donation is its secrecy and underhandedness. The reaction from the public portrays South Africa as an open society that promotes a culture of transparency and accountability in its public affairs.
Transparency in income and expenditure of parties and candidates is viewed as a necessary prerequisite for regulation, as it allows effective oversight and enforcement by relevant authorities. It is a common practice to oblige candidates and political parties to disclose funding sources and provide detailed reports and accounts of their campaign expenditures.
The Cost of Democracy
In order to carry out their activities, political parties need appropriate funding. The relationship between money and politics, however, is controversial, and much of the debate on the role of money is concerned with its improper influence on the democratic political process. While the shady aspects of finance and politics should not be ignored, the relevance of money extends beyond sources that flow into party coffers and the pockets of politicians. The scope of political finance has wider relevance in the context of the functioning of democracy and should thus be seen as broader than merely involving illicit transactions. More generally, political activity involves expenses that should be seen as a necessary and unavoidable cost of democracy.
Available International Frameworks on Political Financing
Having realized that corruption is a phenomenon that permeates into all aspects of life, including politics, the United Nations adopted the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) in 2003. This is the only legally binding universal anti-corruption instrument at that level. The UNCAC Article 7(3) is particularly relevant for our discussion in this article. It reiterates that “Each State Party shall also consider taking appropriate legislative and administrative measures, consistent with the objectives of this Convention and in accordance with the fundamental principles of its domestic law, to enhance transparency in the funding of candidatures for elected public office and, where applicable, the funding of political parties”. We noted that this is a good international framework which, however, is not effectively enforceable at the domestic level.
At the continental level, the African Union (AU) also attempted at promoting transparency and accountability in our politics. The African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption (AUCPCC) was adopted in Maputo on 11 July 2003 to fight rampant political corruption on the African continent. Still, the issue of enforceability remains the major limitation of the AUCPCC.
The Case of Zimbabwe
The Political Parties (Finance Act) regulates the financing of political parties. The political parties that received at least five percent in the previous election will be entitled to support from the Government. The Minister of Justice, with the approval of the Minister of Finance, has to publish each year the amount distributed among political parties from the Consolidated Revenue Fund.
Yet, the Zimbabwean funding model for political parties has created an official unequal playing ground in the politics of the country. Independent candidates will never benefit from this arrangement as it is technically and politically impossible for them to score the required votes in an election. Smaller political parties will also face the same situation in perpetuity. Thus, only the already-established political parties benefit from the facility. Currently, only the ruling party, Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF), and the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) are the official beneficiaries of the money.
Section 93 of the Electoral Act Chapter 2:13 (as of 28 May 2018) also lists all the expenses that are permissible in an election. It is comprehensive enough to cover almost all the critical things that a candidate or political party may require for an effective campaign and running of election processes. Nevertheless, the law is rendered ineffective as noted by the European Union Election Observation Mission (2018) since there are no reporting requirements and enforcement mechanism.
Notable Limitations in Zimbabwean Frameworks
1. For any law to be effective, there should be an enforcement agent. This has remained the key limitation of the Zimbabwean frameworks on political parties’ financing. There is no independent institution to enforce the regulations that guide political parties’ raising and utilization of political and election resources.
2. The facility provided for in the Political Parties (Finance Act) is blind to the plight of smaller political parties and independent candidates. It has also been largely abused in Zimbabwe. Without bothering you much with what you already know, we refer to the MDC situation that “almost benefited the undeserving” individuals following the internal challenges in that party which led to the landmark court decision in 2020.
Another clear limitation of the model is its failure to formally recognize the possibility of the formation of new political parties. The “emergence” of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) as a major opposition political party, with a considerable presence in parliament (though through by elections) is a scenario that was never thought of by the crafters of the Political Parties (Finance Act). The CCC is currently struggling to fulfill its legitimate aspirations as a political player because the law is blind to its existence, yet, it represents a reasonable section of society in parliament. Such realities tempt the political players to consider “other” means of survival, and in the process violate the principles of transparency and accountability.
3. The European Union Election Observation Mission to Zimbabwe (2018) noted that Section 93 of the Electoral Act offers a detailed description of permissible election expenses, including “miscellaneous expenses not exceeding in the whole such sum as may be prescribed”. Nevertheless, as noted by the same Mission, “there is a complete lack of reporting requirements and transparency mechanisms thus not only rendering this provision redundant but also undermining the ability of candidates to campaign on a level playing field”.
4. Possible abuse of public resources by the ruling party has not been directly addressed in the framework. While this has remained a common problem in Zimbabwe, the matter is also noted in other countries such as Mali, Togo, and those from the West. It is alleged that ZANU-PF has continued to monopolize state media in the context of electioneering and routine politics. This means that one can not track and see “money” in such a situation, yet, public resources are actually being utilized.
Abuse of state institutions and resources is a matter of concern in Zimbabwe. In some scenarios, there is intimidation of the opposition support base through the use of state security apparatus that is paid using public resources. The use of government buildings, vehicles, and food for campaigning, also characterizes ruling party campaign processes. Obviously, this creates an unfair playing ground since independent candidates and other opposition political parties do not have ready access to such resources. In 2013 the then Minister of Local Government, Ignatius Chombo canceled the water debts for residents in urban areas, some few weeks before the election date as part of electioneering to guarantee the ruling party’s grip on power. We did not see real money in that move, but certainly, public resources were abused for the benefit of a political party.
5. Possibility of illicit funding in an election is very high when the playing field is not level. Candidates may be forced by their vulnerability circumstances to receive funding that may have been generated through illicit means such as the drug trade. While some of the funding may be “clean”, some political actors may be forced to depend on foreign support for their campaigns, a situation that can also create complications in enforcing regulations on political party financing.
Conclusion
It can be concluded that money remains necessary for democratic politics, and political parties must have access to funds to play their part in the political process. Regulations must not curb the healthy competition but should create a level playing field, particularly between the ruling party and opposition political players including independent candidates, small, and newly formed parties. The authors noted that Zimbabwe has got adequate regulatory frameworks for political party financing. Nevertheless, the country lacks an independent institution that provides oversight on the acquisition, usage, and reporting of political party finances. Lack of reporting requirements, transparency, and accountability undermines the ability of political parties to campaign on a level playing field. The ruling party remains strategically located to benefit unfairly from the state resources during election time.
Recommendations
1. As recommended by some international and local election observers, Zimbabwe should introduce regulations on campaign expenditure, including reporting requirements before the nomination process and shortly after the declaration of results.
2. There needs to be a clear mandate for an independent institution to oversee respect for such regulations and to undertake campaign finance audits. In the same vein, civil society and the media should continue to monitor the political actors’ expenditure and bring out issues of abuse of state resources and the existence of possible illicit resources in certain political party coffers. While Zimbabwe Electoral Commission(ZEC) could have become an automatic candidate for this role, its legacy issues with regards to public confidence in it is a hindrance.
3. Crowdfunding: This is an innovative, legitimate, and effective way of raising funds for political parties, especially those that are yet to qualify for government allocations. The strategy facilitates the collection of small amounts of money that has been raised by ordinary members of a party or friends of a particular candidate. This is done electronically where a crowdfunding page can be set up and running in minutes and accept donations instantly. Nevertheless, crowdfunding should not also be abused. Proper accountability and reporting mechanisms should be captured in the country’s and individual political parties’ framework for reporting purposes.
4. Grassroots Lobbying: Organic and grassroots lobbying for funding is a very powerful strategy in political fundraising. It constantly connects political organizations to their supporters and entrenches a sense of belonging and the social contract between the party and its supporters. For effective execution, trained volunteers must be employed who will be responsible for executing the fundraising campaigns in the communities. The volunteers should be well-known people whom supporters trust and have confidence in. Accountability mechanisms should also be enforced at the party level to help national-level reporting mechanisms.
5. Resourceful Candidates: Endowed candidates can be handy to politics in times of need. Former New York Mayor, Michael Bloomberg single-handedly funded in 2020 United States Presidential Election campaign to the tune of half a billion dollars. Though this practice can pose future problems for political parties when these candidates use their influence to capture and control, it has been observed that in most cases these deep-pocketed candidates have a good chance of winning in elections to save the underfunded political parties.
Ignatious G Sadziwa, Executive Director @ Zimbabwe Election Advocacy Trust. He is a Social Democrat and an Election Expert. He can be contacted @ Mobile/WhatsApp +263772706621; Facebook: Ignatious Sadziwa; Twitter: Ignatious Sadziwa; Email: [email protected]
Dr. Tinashe Gumbo is a Social, Economic, and Environmental Justice activist. He writes on elections, the environment, mining, and music. He can be contacted on Mobile: at +254 702 523 940/WhatsApp at +263 773218860; Email: [email protected]; Blog: tinashegumbo.wordpress.com; Twitter: DrTinasheGumbo1; Facebook: Tinashe Gumbo
Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has claimed that he is not bothered by targeted sanctions imposed on him by western countries.
Chiwenga was put on targeted sanctions during his time as the Army General. The United States accused him of assisting the Zanu-PF regime to undermine democracy and the rule of law.
Earlier this month, US President Joe Biden extended sanctions against Zimbabwe and accused President Emmerson Mnangagwa of lacking political will to institute reforms.
In an interview with The Third Eye, Chiwenga seemingly mocked the US saying they can have as many “sanctions as they want”. He further said he was not worried about the restrictions.
“Sanctions do not change that. I don’t even notice that I am under sanctions. Have I ever gone to them and said I need something from them?
“The American people and the Zimbabwean people are not indifferent. It is the administrations, one after another, which have a bone to chew with us. But you cannot get what is not yours,” he said.
He added: “You look at our agriculture. We have got our agriculture policy 8.0 where we are now saying before we go to 2030, we would have achieved the feat of moving every Zimbabwean out of poverty completely and that is going to happen under the watch of President Mnangagwa.
“You will see if there are sanctions or no sanctions, we will move. It is just a fly trying to spoil the meal,” he said.
Chiwenga slammed the US government for putting independent individuals on sanctions.
“Absolute nonsense. Individual people have had their monies seized by the Americans. Are they in the Zimbabwean leadership? Are they part of the establishment? Are they in Zanu-PF? When you seize the monies of churches, what role do they have in politics?
“Their role is on the pulpit, telling people to turn to God and prepare for the life after death, to live in harmony, in peace, love, that’s what the churches are preaching.
“They don’t say vote for this man or that man, or this party or that party. They want people to be united and build their country. But when their monies are seized by the Americans, what is that? Are they in the leadership of Zanu-PF?” questioned Chiwenga.
A 17-year-old girl was allegedly raped by a Borrowdale man she had been referred to for employment on Monday.
The girl informed her aunt via a WhatsApp message leading to the arrest of Herbert Madhume, 27.
Harare provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, confirmed the arrest.
He said the victim was referred to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals for medical examination.
“Police are investigating a case involving a woman who was raped in Borrowdale.
“The complainant was looking for a job as a maid and was linked by a friend to get in touch with the accused.
“On March 8, at around 1pm, the complainant was called by the accused to go to Simon Muzenda bus terminus where she was given directions of how to get to the accused’s residence.
“When the complainant arrived at the accused’s residence, she discovered that he was using a single room.
“During the night, the complainant slept on the floor while the accused was on the bed. “ Insp Chakanza added:
“At around 9pm, the accused person woke up and sneaked into the complainant’s blankets and raped her once without protection.
“He further raped the complainant thrice on three different intervals.”
By A Correspondent | ZANU PF President Emmerson Mnangagwa is flying to UK for King Charles’ coronation, ZimEye can reveal.
Sources at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the development to ZimEye which will be the Gukurahundi massacre architect’s first visit to London in over 20 years. It will also be his first to be a free man on UK soil since the UN COP26 conference when opposition protesters blocked him from drinking beer with his ZANU PF supporters in Glasgow.
The Coronation of The King and The Queen Consort will be marked with events across the country and a concert at Windsor Castle, Windsor castle announces. Their Majesties want to encourage people to spend the Coronation Weekend celebrating with friends, families and their communities.
The Coronation Service
The Coronation of The King and The Queen Consort will take place at Westminster Abbey on Saturday 6th May 2023.
The Service will be conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury and will reflect the Monarch’s role today and look towards the future, while being rooted in longstanding traditions and pageantry.
Their Majesties will arrive at Westminster Abbey in procession from Buckingham Palace, known as ‘The King’s Procession’.
Meanwhil, it is highly unlikely that Mnangagwa will be allowed a motorcade and he will most likely be most likely be confined to a bus like other African heads of state as was done when king Charles ascended the throne last year.
Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube’s agents have been accused of assaulting CCC activists in Cowdray Park yesterday… VIDEO
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Today‼️ after our champions were harassed and arrested by deployed security personnel at Cowdray park.We encouraged the citizens to be vigilant and defend the vote .It’s the 4th liberation struggle @nelsonchamisa@CCCforChange234pic.twitter.com/vAvi8y1Hbj
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has extended by another six months the tribunal investigating suspended Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) commissioner John Makamure.
The three-member tribunal is chaired by retired High Court judge Justice Maphios Cheda. The other members of the tribunal are Harare lawyer Charles Warara and Regai Thandiwe Hove.
It was established on 21 October 2022 to investigate whether Makamure failed to disclose his involvement in political activities, which is inconsistent with the duties and functions of a commissioner.
The tribunal will also investigate whether Makamure directed one Lee Sung to fund his political campaign in Gokwe in return for his protection.
Mnangagwa extended the tribunal in terms of a Presidential proclamation gazetted as Statutory Instrument 30 of 2023 which reads in part:
Now, therefore, under, and by virtue of the powers vested in the President as aforesaid, I do hereby; by this proclamation amend Proclamation 4 of 2022, published in Statutory Instrument 172 of 2022, by insertion in paragraph (d) of the words ‘with an option of an extension of six (6) months after expiry of the initial five months.
By Showbiz Reporter | Following her USD100,000 ponzi scam, the arrested sociallite, Mai Titi has opened a new advertisement for a new group of investors to pay in deposits for shops in building complex that’s in the CBD.
VIDEO LOADING BELOW…
Felistas Murata is currently under prosecution, bailed till the 20th April over another scam involving a car she misrepresented as if its hers and obtained a loan over it.
At one time, she made people pay for 2 in 1 blankets which do not exist.
She also advertised bales of clothes which were never delivered after payment.She has a long history of violence, and calling for full glare bloodshed against political opponents in the country.
She has a long history of violence, hiring gangsters to assault people
she disagrees with, including asking the govt for a law to get critics “hacked” down by police while they are commenting on the Facebook website.
VIDEO LOADING BELOW…
VILLAGERS in Gwanda have challenged Zesa Holdings subsidiary’s, the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) to come clean on the Enqameni-Gwanda power line installations.
Infuriated villagers have accused ZETDC of lying since 2005 that it was making progress on the power line.
Last year, ZETDC promised that it would resume installation of the power line which was stalled in 2005 due to unavailability of poles.
The project was supposed to power Sitezi Clinic, Sibona high and primary schools as well as Wabayi and Simbumbumbu primary schools.
In November last year, ZETDC Western Region manager Lloyd Jaji told Southern Eye that they had started working on the project, but the villagers have claimed that nothing has been done since then.
Gwanda villager, Nozithelo Ndlovu said: “It’s all a lie, not a single thing has been done. ZETDC is just trying to present themselves in a good light, but in reality things are different,” she said.
“No grass clearing has been done at all, they should stop lying.”
Another villager, Ndabezitha Mahlangu said: “It angers me that they are even telling newspapers their lie. We really hope they someday help us and really do install these poles, at least put electricity in schools for our children.”
Yet another villager said Zesa’s empty promises were disappointing villagers, especially children who thought they were finally going to have electricity at their schools.
Contacted for comment, Jaji said they did not have enough material to attend to the Enqameni-Gwanda power line.
“Requirements were qualified and we did not have enough material to start mobilising as initially intended. We are putting together resources to do these and other lines in Gwanda this year,” he said.- The Standard
A cross-section of Zimbabweans have blamed the high number of divorce cases being recorded in the country on moral decadence.
Infidelity, domestic violence, loss of feelings, and irreconcilable differences are among some of the reasons cited for divorce daily.
They say it takes two to tango so who is to blame for these separations?
Marriage counsellor Reverend Phanuel Razo says there is a need to go back to the basics if ever the marriage institution is to be restored.
Reverend Razo said, ‘‘We need to go back to the basics to our foundation as black people as Africans as Zimbabweans, we have laid down processes that have to be followed.
“Marriage is not the certificate that one gets from the marriage officer that’s the last thing. Marriage is about the processes, where did you find each other, and how did you meet? That process does your aunty, uncle and your family know. Who brought the Lobola?
“Nowadays people hire relatives from the streets to pay the bride price, do you expect that marriage to work? Of course not. But if we involve the family, the pillars, then it will work. The shortcuts will not take us anywhere we also need to involve God in our marriages.’’
According to statistics from the Judicial Service Commission, Zimbabwe recorded a 100 percent increase in divorce cases in 2022.
In 2020, 1 117 couples filed for divorce and the figure went up to 1 351 in 2021.
In 2022, the figure doubled to 2 735 cases against 13 436 recorded marriages.- ZBC News
A cross-section of Zimbabweans have blamed the high number of divorce cases being recorded in the country on moral decadence.
Infidelity, domestic violence, loss of feelings, and irreconcilable differences are among some of the reasons cited for divorce daily.
They say it takes two to tango so who is to blame for these separations?
Marriage counsellor Reverend Phanuel Razo says there is a need to go back to the basics if ever the marriage institution is to be restored.
Reverend Razo said, ‘‘We need to go back to the basics to our foundation as black people as Africans as Zimbabweans, we have laid down processes that have to be followed.
“Marriage is not the certificate that one gets from the marriage officer that’s the last thing. Marriage is about the processes, where did you find each other, and how did you meet? That process does your aunty, uncle and your family know. Who brought the Lobola?
“Nowadays people hire relatives from the streets to pay the bride price, do you expect that marriage to work? Of course not. But if we involve the family, the pillars, then it will work. The shortcuts will not take us anywhere we also need to involve God in our marriages.’’
According to statistics from the Judicial Service Commission, Zimbabwe recorded a 100 percent increase in divorce cases in 2022.
In 2020, 1 117 couples filed for divorce and the figure went up to 1 351 in 2021.
In 2022, the figure doubled to 2 735 cases against 13 436 recorded marriages.- ZBC News
The Government of Zimbabwe will on 16 March 2023 review performance contracts for Cabinet Ministers, Permanent Secretaries, Chief Executive Officers for Parastatals and Local authorities, Vice Chancellors of State Universities among other senior civil servants.- ZBC News
Tinashe Sambiri|CCC leader President Nelson Chamisa has implored the uniformed forces to be strong, objective and non-partisan in the execution of respective duties.
In a statement on Twitter, the CCC leader called for due diligence and unwavering professionalism among the uniformed forces.
“Dear Civil servants & our uniformed patriotic officers;I know what you are going through. Be strong, non-partisan and remain loyal to Zimbabwe and its citizens. Professionalism first not Cadreship.The darkest hour is just before dawn.The sun will soon rise in Zimbabwe. #OnePeople,” President Chamisa posted on Twitter.
“Dear Zimbabwe; It’s possible to get our country working & great again. It’s possible to wake up to a rewarding job in a Zimbabwe with a capable state,its own currency, electricity,water,high speed internet and the best roads, schools & hospitals. It’s possible. #RegisterToVoteNow,” added the CCC leader.
Controversial hip-hop artist Mukudzei Chitsamapopularly ,known as Holy Ten, is crashing on CCC spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere in spite of glaring ideological differences as well as the wide age gap.
Holy Ten ( 24) stunned all and sundry when he expressed a burning desire to date Mahere( 37).
The controversial musician described Mahere as a cute lady, much to the chagrin of CCC sympathisers.
Holy Ten wrote on Twitter: “Fadzi Mahere kinda cute! Can I take you out for dinner nhai @advocatemahere.”
See below responses to Holy Ten’s sentiments:
Malacchi Chimonyo:
“Iwe bhangu usaite sezvinonzi ndiwe watanga kuendesa munhu kulunch…Why should we noe everything including paunokosora chaipo zvoshamisei zvelunch izvo Unoti vese vakanyarara havasikuenda kumaluch hre.”
The trial of former Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga’s former wife, Marry Mubaiwa, who is accused of attempting to kill the VP, continued yesterday with the cross-examination of a witness, Warren Sibanda.
Mubaiwa, who is being represented by Beatrice Mtetwa, is denying the offence.
Sibanda told the court that Mubaiwa tried to kill Chiwenga in South Africa by refusing to give him a chance to get medical attention.
He said Chiwenga was extremely ill when Mubaiwa ordered that he be booked at a South African hotel instead of taking him to a hospital soon after they arrived in the neighbouring country.
Mtetwa then asked Sibanda to explain if it were possible for Mubaiwa to try to upgrade her marriage to a man she wanted to kill. Sibanda said he was hearing of the marriage case for the first time in court.
Mtetwa said if Mubaiwa really wanted Chiwenga to die, she could have killed him in India where they were alone.
While leading evidence for the State, Sibanda said when he opened a private room at the hospital where Chiwenga was later admitted in South Africa, he saw blood stains on his T-shirt and in the room. Later, he said the blood stains were outside the door, which contradicted his earlier evidence. —Newsday
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has come under fire from political parties for allegedly failing to communicate a position regarding accreditation that will give them permission to observe the ongoing 10-day voter registration blitz.
The process of registering voters began on March 12, 2023, and will conclude on March 21, 2023.
On the first day of the blitz, ZEC officials refused media and election monitors access to statistics at voter registration centres on grounds that they were not authorised yet the electoral management authority did not call for accreditation.
ZEC also allegedly failed to provide a position on accreditation at an all-stakeholders meeting conducted in Bulawayo on March 9, 2023.
Officials at that meeting claimed they would have to liaise with ZEC headquarters.
“At our last meeting with ZEC, we asked about accreditation and observing but ZEC failed to answer. We raised this because political parties and other interested groups wanted to be part of the observers,” said the spokesperson of the Nationalists Alliance Party (NAP), Honest Njabulo Farry Sibanda.
Sibanda highlighted that the lack of a position by ZEC made it difficult for political parties to observe the voter registration process.
“It’s now hard to be observers if we are not accredited because by law we are not assigned to do that. ZEC failed to explain and Commissioner Ambrose, who was there that day, said if ready, they will gazette the accreditation exercise and the amount to be paid by those interested,” he said.
Given the short time constraint, stakeholders asked when that would be done, according to the NAP spokesperson.
“ZEC failed to answer that. So we can’t observe now because nothing was clear,” Sibanda said.
Sibanda went on to say that such failure to officially state a position was regrettable and represented ZEC’s failure to provide the voters’ roll.
“Maybe they are still modifying the voters’ roll but it’s hard to know the status of it. As NAP, there’s nothing we can do but to wait for them to finish up then we can conduct the voter’s roll inspection,” he said.
“This is when we’ll verify everything.”
ZEC is yet to officially comment on queries from CITE.
Mthwakazi Republic Party (MRP) spokesperson, Velile Moyo, stated that by refusing political parties to access registration information exposed how ZEC wanted to close out other contestants.
“We did not get any invitation from ZEC to accredit as observers, neither have we ever been contacted by them regarding voter registration, we also never saw any public call for such,” he claimed.
Moyo described these actions as ZEC’s unwillingness to respond to transparency in election reforms.
“ZEC should create a conducive environment that will allow political parties to approach them for any information. For that reason, they are making us doubt if the irregularities that often surround this voters’ roll have gone under reforms. As a party, we are not taking ZEC seriously,” he said.
“The whole strategy is a manipulation of the electoral process.”
The spokesperson further stated that MRP’s Matabeleland North leadership approached ZEC at their provincial headquarters last Friday to say their registration centres were placed far from people.
“Some people have to travel over 20 km to go register and the answer by the director at the ZEC Matabeleland North office was they had limited resources to come closer to people,” Moyo claimed.
“To us, that is a lame excuse by ZEC and displays their unwillingness to avail the right to vote for everyone. It speaks directly to their incompetence.”
ZAPU Secretary General, Mthulisi Hanana said as a party, they have accepted that ZEC is not as astute as expected.
“Generally, ZEC always has a bias to do everything shrouded in mystery and mysticism. That’s why we have not been given access to the electronic version of the voters roll under the guise that it’s some secret national document that must be protected,” said the SG.
Hanana claimed that ZEC seeks to preserve all of its processes, even from stakeholders, making free and fair elections run by ZEC impossible.
“However, as a party, we have made a resolution to contest elections and keep fighting Zanu until we prevail,” he said.
“We continue calling on all members, those apolitical, first-time voters and supporters from other political parties to go register and vote when the time comes. We are clear on who they must not vote for, for the betterment of Zimbabwe.”
Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Bulawayo interim Provincial Spokesperson, Swithern Chirowodza said this blitz was done for the eyes of the public.
“ZEC had a short BVR blitz last year when civic society and political parties had previously called for the setting up of BVR kiosks in the townships. Therefore a blitz after the gerrymandering of constituencies is a little too late,” he noted.
According to Chirowodza, CCC had been mobilising people to register and was keeping its own records but was unable to verify those statistics.
“ZEC has been unable to give us the latest registration records, which makes it difficult for us to audit our own work. Accredited journalists will also not be able to get specific information regarding registration. ZEC is cagey,” he summed. -CITE
VOTER REGISTRATION WATCH: We’ve received a report that alleged ZANU PF activists took photos of our registration mobilizers at Domboramwari Reg Centre in Epworth. The police later came to interrogate the photographed mobilizers. Our peace monitors stepped in to protect them.
VOTER REGISTRATION WATCH: In Lobengula Magwegwe at Konron Centre, @ZECzim has turned away several potential new voters over lack of equipment to perform its constitutional duties.
@ZECzim must discharge it’s constitutional mandate.
ZecRespectConstitution
ZecMustReform
VOTER REGISTRATION WATCH: Our voter registration task force in Bulawayo has observed a deliberate ploy by @ZECzim to disfranchise potential new voters at the following Centres; Konron Entumbane Hall Rhodonite Malaika
We urge @ZECzim to do the honorable thing, REGISTER PEOPLE!!!
Congestion of fixtures and overuse of the National Sports Stadium will likely be story of the upcoming Premier Soccer League (PSL) season, amid revelations that the giant facility will host four matches within three days on match day one.
The 2023 season starts this weekend, but a stadiums crisis looms, as only six stadiums —National Sports Stadium, Babourfields, Mandava, Baobab, Gibbo and Luveve —are fit to host the country’s top-flight games.
The Harare City Council assured football fans that Rufaro Stadium would be ready before the start of the PSL season but the ‘Ceremonial Home of Football’ is still being renovated and not yet ready.
It is the National Sports Stadium which will be hit hard by the crisis, as it will be home to at least seven clubs.
Apart from the six clubs based in Harare who use the 60 000-seater facility —Dynamos, CAPS United, Herentals, Black Rhinos, Yadah and Cranborne Bullets, new boys Simba Bhora will also use it temporarily, until their intended venue —Wadzanai Stadium in Shamva, is renovated to meet PSL standards.
On Saturday, Simba will host defending champions FC Platinum at the giant facility, before CAPS United host Manica Diamonds at the same venue on Sunday.
The National Sports Stadium will then host two matches on Monday, when Yadah welcome new boys GreenFuel at 12pm, before army sides Cranborne Bullets and Black Rhinos clash at 3pm.
Gweru-based newcomers Sheasham will temple share Mandava with FC Platinum, as renovations continue at their home ground Bata, while GreenFuel and Triangle will temporarily share Gibbo.
For the visit of Dynamos on Saturday, Hwange will have to use Babourfields as their home ground —The Colliery, did not pass the PSL inspection.-Soccer24 News
Eden Hazard has confirmed that there’s no connection between him and his Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti but maintains respect towards the gaffer.
The former Belgium international has endured a frustrating spell in Madrid due to inconsistency and injuries.
The situation was recently made worse by Ancelotti, who has frozen the player out of the squad despite him being fit to play.
Hazard hasn’t featured a single minute of La Liga or Champions League action since returning from the World Cup campaign.
In an interview with Spanish outlet Diario AS, the 32-year-old opened up on his relationship with his coach.
The player said: “There is respect between us. But I’m not going to say that we talk to each other, because we don’t talk to each other . But there will always be respect.
“Even if he doesn’t make me play tomorrow… I have to have respect for a guy like Carlo Ancelotti. In what he represents for football, what he has done in his career. No problem.”
Real Madrid are open to selling Hazard this summer, as he enters the final 12 months of his contract, with the potential for another costly free transfer exit next summer a concerning scenario.
Speaking on his future, Hazard added: “I would like to stay. I have always said it. I hope to play to show that I can still do it. People have doubts, it’s normal.
“I understand it really good. But for me, I’m still here next year. You never know, but a transfer is not in the plan.”- Soccer24 Zimbabwe
The Government of Zimbabwe will on 16 March 2023 review performance contracts for Cabinet Ministers, Permanent Secretaries, Chief Executive Officers for Parastatals and Local authorities, Vice Chancellors of State Universities among other senior civil servants.- ZBC News
VILLAGERS in Gwanda have challenged Zesa Holdings subsidiary’s, the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) to come clean on the Enqameni-Gwanda power line installations.
Infuriated villagers have accused ZETDC of lying since 2005 that it was making progress on the power line.
Last year, ZETDC promised that it would resume installation of the power line which was stalled in 2005 due to unavailability of poles.
The project was supposed to power Sitezi Clinic, Sibona high and primary schools as well as Wabayi and Simbumbumbu primary schools.
In November last year, ZETDC Western Region manager Lloyd Jaji told Southern Eye that they had started working on the project, but the villagers have claimed that nothing has been done since then.
Gwanda villager, Nozithelo Ndlovu said: “It’s all a lie, not a single thing has been done. ZETDC is just trying to present themselves in a good light, but in reality things are different,” she said.
“No grass clearing has been done at all, they should stop lying.”
Another villager, Ndabezitha Mahlangu said: “It angers me that they are even telling newspapers their lie. We really hope they someday help us and really do install these poles, at least put electricity in schools for our children.”
Yet another villager said Zesa’s empty promises were disappointing villagers, especially children who thought they were finally going to have electricity at their schools.
Contacted for comment, Jaji said they did not have enough material to attend to the Enqameni-Gwanda power line.
“Requirements were qualified and we did not have enough material to start mobilising as initially intended. We are putting together resources to do these and other lines in Gwanda this year,” he said.- The Standard
By A Correspondent| Prophet T Freddy has joined the nation in the fight against drug abuse in a new song titled Ama 2k.
The song that has already gained views on YouTube describe how youngsters have been engaging in drug abuse.
In the song the man of cloth reveals how drug abuse has been bad and how it creates social ills.
“These issues have to come out, it’s everyone’s responsibility to tackle this issue. We need to pray, sing and call upon our youths to understand that. A Clarion call has to be made,” said the prophet.
Prophet Freddy who is known for releasing trending songs, has so far been hailed by people.
Some said the man of cloth has done well in releasing a song that fights against drugs while others said it was a good initiative also to tell the youth about the word of God.
Recently he released songs on YouTube that have been trending and has been praised for his ability to tackle social issues.
By- Zanu PF activists on Monday beat up seven Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) employees in Epworth for wearing yellow reflectors while conducting voter education.
Police have not taken action against the acts of political violence by these Zanu PF thugs, resulting in the Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum calling on the authorities to investigate this case.
The Forum said: 7 Zimbabwe Electoral Commission staffers were assaulted by ZANU-PF activists in Epworth on 13 March for wearing yellow reflectors while conducting voter education in the dormitory town. They were bundled in a combi and assaulted by the activists led by Kudakwashe Damison, a ZANU-PF losing candidate in the 2018 polls, before being dumped at Epworth Police Station. ZEC on Sunday, 12 March commenced a mobile voter registration exercise ahead of the 2023 general elections. ZEC said that the outreach will take place at over 21 000 centres nationwide until March. Prospective voters are required to carry their Identity Card – metal, plastic or waiting pass with the holder’s picture – or a valid passport. Proof of residence is required but where a prospective voter does not have one, they can sign an affidavit at the registration centre.
By-Three immigrant lecturers whose contracts at the Port Elizabeth TVET College were terminated in January have won their case in the Labour Court.
Three lecturers from Zimbabwe and Rwanda whose contracts were terminated in January by the Port Elizabeth TVET College have withdrawn their case today after the College agreed in the Port Elizabeth Labour Court that it would not retrench them.
A fourth lecturer who was also dismissed, who is Zimbabwean, has not been appearing in court because he has another case pending with the College.
The four have been lecturing in engineering for several years. The college management wrote letters on 12 January informing them that their services would be terminated on 1 February.
They approached the Labour Court, which granted a provisional interdict in February setting aside the termination of their employment. Lawyers for the College then asked the lecturers to withdraw their case, but they refused.
They did not want to comment on their case. But Sangolinye Ngqungwana, a lecturer at the same College and shop steward for the National Union of Public Service and Allied Workers (NUPSAW), said the College had now sent the court an affidavit. “That changes the ball game completely. With the affidavit we have proof of them confirming under oath that they are not going to retrench.”
“For that reason we decided to withdraw the case.”
Deputy Principal Dorian Baartzes said the affidavit was to notify the court that the College was not opposing the case brought by the lecturers and had complied with the interdict, and that it and would comply with the Labour Regulations Act if it embarked on any retrenchment process.
By- Zanu PF has gaged its aspiring candidates for the forthcoming Zanu PF primary elections from campaigning before the Politburo approves their Curricula Vitae. The revolutionary party goes to the polls this weekend to elect candidates that will represent the party in the elections. The candidates will be vying for the 210 national assembly seats, 1 970 wards, 60 senatorial seats, 60 women’s quota, and 10 youths quota posts. Speaking to our sister paper Herald, Zanu-PF Political Commissar Cde Mike Bimha said at the moment they cannot be any talk of successful or unsuccessful candidates because the vetting process did not end with the Provincial Elections Directorate. He said their mandate was just to consider the CVs against the rules and regulations, give their remarks, and submit the papers to the National Elections Directorate (NED) for further interrogations of the CVs. The NED will, after their own process, forward the papers to Politburo for final approval. “We discourage candidates from campaigning now because they still have to wait for approval, they still have to wait for the processes to take place and once they have been successful in the process then they can start campaigning,” said Cde Bimha. In Bulawayo, nine candidates submitted CVs for the six senatorial seats with 38 handing papers for the 12 National Assembly seats while 101 will be eyeing local authority seats in the 29 city wards. Women’s and youths quota has 16 candidates and one candidate respectively. Matabeleland North has a total of 535 candidates who submitted CVs with 14 eyeing senatorial seats, 54 submitting papers for National Assembly post and 449 going for local authority positions.
By-There is pressure in the Zanu PF National Elections Directorate and Security Departments as thousands submit their CVs to partake in this weekend’s primaries ahead of the national polls.
According to the state media, all provinces Monday were still submitting the CVs for the Senate, House of Assembly, local authorities, women, and youth quotas to the ruling party headquarters.
Before submission to the National Elections Directorate, Zanu PF Political Commissar Cde Mike Bimha said Provincial Elections Directorates only make their comments and remarks without necessarily denying any candidate to lodge his or her CV. “Right now we cannot talk of successful candidates or unsuccessful candidates because what the provinces were simply doing was really to consider these CVs against the rules and regulations set out earlier, thereby making recommendations and also giving their remarks, therefore the next stage will be for these submissions to be interrogated by the National Elections Directorate. “The same submission will also come under scrutiny by our security department so that after the vetting process, we then move to the stage where the final approval will be given by the Politburo and which will mark the beginning of the campaigns of this internal processes,” he said. Prospective candidates, he added, have to wait until they get approval from the party before they start campaigning. “We discourage candidates to campaign now because they still have to wait for approval, they still have to wait for the processes to take place and then once that they have been successful in the processes then they can start campaigning,” he said A record number of aspiring candidates have submitted their CVs to stand in for the ruling party in the forthcoming elections with a blend of old and new faces in a display of the universal popularity of Zanu PF. On Saturday and Sunday, the ruling party’s aspiring candidates submitted their CVs to the provincial administrators at their respective provincial headquarters. Aspiring candidates will be vying for 210 constituencies, 1 970 wards, 60 senatorial, 60 for women’s quota, and 10 for Youth quota. Young people in particular have shown keen interest to represent Zanu PF in the forthcoming elections, the dates of which will be announced soon by President Mnangagwa. The zeal to represent Zanu PF runs deep, with one province alone receiving more than 4000 nomination papers in a display of thriving democracy in the revolutionary party. “As I said earlier on, there has been an overwhelming response with some of the positions, particularly for the House of the Assembly where you have 10 or more candidates pursuing one position across the board on the National Assembly the Senate, the women’s quota, youth quota, and local Authority. I would like to thank all our members for exercising their rights by coming forward and demonstrating their willingness to work for the party,” said Cde Bimha.
By Muneyi Zavare & Dr Masimba Mavaza-The dark cloud hoovered on the British empire in September 2022 when the hand of death snatched the Queen from Mother Earth.
This was the death of the longest-serving British Monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, a woman revered by many across what is left of the empire and its Commonwealth of former colonies.
Such was the popularity of the late monarch that an estimated 5.1 billion people watched the Queen’s funeral worldwide. Of course, others out of suppressed loathing as they regarded her as a symbol and figurehead of the British establishment’s oppression. However, how one viewed the Queen, it would be factual to say that she was the apex of British diplomacy, with an excellent ability to welcome and accept all manner of individuals with diversified characters, be it Idi Amin from Uganda, Chile’s General Pinochet, Donald Trump from the USA or any leader the British establishment wanted to charm and do business with. Give it to Queen Elizabeth; she would make anyone feel like they were on Mount Elbrus or Everest for those of European origins and the natural world’s tallest mountain measured from base to top, Mount Kilimanjaro, in Tanzania, Africa, for the rest of us. The Queen became Europe’s most crucial monarchy, with an influence covering all continents. The British had an empire in which the sun never set’, they proudly boasted.
The Queen’s Sun Set
Through Elizabeth the Second’s diplomatic skills, Britain managed to appear as a decent former colonial master and partner to many countries, especially in the Commonwealth. That was until her inevitable ‘sunset arrived on the 8th of September 2022 during her annual stay at her favourite Balmoral Castle in Scotland. With her passing, it appears the British lost their sense of respect, a golden touch in managing international relations. Otherwise, how else can one explain the manner in which some world leaders were treated leading to and at the funeral of Elizabeth II.
Enter the buses of ‘shame.’
It is not an exaggeration to suggest that some Caribbean and African countries’ leaders are still to recover from the humiliation and embarrassing and shameful manner they were treated during Queen Elizabeth’s funeral. Images of leaders from these countries inhabited by black people being ferried around in public and community coaches stunned many in the countries they led. It was almost impossible not to reminisce about the historical treatment of Kunta Kinte. You could bring a million people from across generations, and all would swear with their ancestors they had never seen their President Akufo Addo in a Ghana public bus or those in Kenya, their President Ruto grinning with arms resignedly folded. Often the travels of these leaders are done with glitz, glamour and, at times, annoyance, with unnecessary drama too. Security vehicles with loud sirens that one can hear from a couple of miles signal to motorists to pave the way or face consequences. Just watch the number of security vehicles surrounding a US president; double that for some African or Caribbean political leaders. And this experience would have been both humbling and torturing to egos. The Queen’s funeral arrangements brought so much humbling and ridicule in equal measure to leaders from black Commonwealth countries. Most might have wondered what happened to the glorious, comfort-filled, warm, respectful reception they previously experienced at Buckingham Palace as the British establishment charmed them for resources and advancement of interests using the late Queen. The horror faces explained the agony and feelings of these leaders as they travelled across the streets of London bundled in buses. Feigned smiles to the cameras by a few of them were more tellingly as to their embarrassment. These leaders, like any other, often travel with carefully chosen photographers and friendly media people on these international trips. With the sole aim of capturing and projecting an image of revered statesmanship on international stages back home to their people. Not during September 2022 at the funeral of Elizabeth II. It was troublingly embarrassing and a sign of diplomatic weakness by African and Caribbean leaders.
Coronation of King Charles III
With the coronation of King of Charles III coming less than ten weeks from now on the 6th of May 2023, we can be sure that invitations to attend have long been despatched once again to Commonwealth nations and other world leaders. British diplomats’ renowned persuasion skills will be at play, not that they need to use them anyway. As before and always with certainty, many will accept an opportunity to grace the streets of London, hoping it will not be in a public coach again. But, indeed, if officials at Buckingham Palace, the King’s official working residence and Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office at King Charles 2 offices, London, had respect for African and Commonwealth leaders, they would avoid the diplomatic faux pas in their plans. There should not be a repeat of that unequal treatment of African and Caribbean leaders compared to their compatriots from Canada, New Zealand or any European country. Leaders from the former colonies deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. Heads of countries or governments from black Commonwealth countries and their advisers should think twice before they ready themselves to hop into planes to brave the Spring chilling weather of the UK for an English king’s coronation. They are best advised to scrutinise the plans being submitted, know the itinerary very well and how they will be treated at the coronation. Never should they willingly accept being treated like second-class citizens. For these leaders, it is their image and dignity at stake and that of the billion-plus black people they represent. The bus images of September 2022 at the Queen’s funeral should never be witnessed again. They must show courage, self-respect and pride and say no to indignity. Suppose Biden, Macron, Trudeau, USA, France, and Canada leaders are to be respected. In that case, leaders from the African and Caribbean countries should be allowed to travel around in their vehicles, protected by their security staff and the British Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection (PaDP). Welcome back to London leaders, Hail King Charles III, have grace. Respect!
Congestion of fixtures and overuse of the National Sports Stadium will likely be story of the upcoming Premier Soccer League (PSL) season, amid revelations that the giant facility will host four matches within three days on match day one.
The 2023 season starts this weekend, but a stadiums crisis looms, as only six stadiums —National Sports Stadium, Babourfields, Mandava, Baobab, Gibbo and Luveve —are fit to host the country’s top-flight games.
The Harare City Council assured football fans that Rufaro Stadium would be ready before the start of the PSL season but the ‘Ceremonial Home of Football’ is still being renovated and not yet ready.
It is the National Sports Stadium which will be hit hard by the crisis, as it will be home to at least seven clubs.
Apart from the six clubs based in Harare who use the 60 000-seater facility —Dynamos, CAPS United, Herentals, Black Rhinos, Yadah and Cranborne Bullets, new boys Simba Bhora will also use it temporarily, until their intended venue —Wadzanai Stadium in Shamva, is renovated to meet PSL standards.
On Saturday, Simba will host defending champions FC Platinum at the giant facility, before CAPS United host Manica Diamonds at the same venue on Sunday.
The National Sports Stadium will then host two matches on Monday, when Yadah welcome new boys GreenFuel at 12pm, before army sides Cranborne Bullets and Black Rhinos clash at 3pm.
Gweru-based newcomers Sheasham will temple share Mandava with FC Platinum, as renovations continue at their home ground Bata, while GreenFuel and Triangle will temporarily share Gibbo.
For the visit of Dynamos on Saturday, Hwange will have to use Babourfields as their home ground —The Colliery, did not pass the PSL inspection.-Soccer24 News
Eden Hazard has confirmed that there’s no connection between him and his Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti but maintains respect towards the gaffer.
The former Belgium international has endured a frustrating spell in Madrid due to inconsistency and injuries.
The situation was recently made worse by Ancelotti, who has frozen the player out of the squad despite him being fit to play.
Hazard hasn’t featured a single minute of La Liga or Champions League action since returning from the World Cup campaign.
In an interview with Spanish outlet Diario AS, the 32-year-old opened up on his relationship with his coach.
The player said: “There is respect between us. But I’m not going to say that we talk to each other, because we don’t talk to each other . But there will always be respect.
“Even if he doesn’t make me play tomorrow… I have to have respect for a guy like Carlo Ancelotti. In what he represents for football, what he has done in his career. No problem.”
Real Madrid are open to selling Hazard this summer, as he enters the final 12 months of his contract, with the potential for another costly free transfer exit next summer a concerning scenario.
Speaking on his future, Hazard added: “I would like to stay. I have always said it. I hope to play to show that I can still do it. People have doubts, it’s normal.
“I understand it really good. But for me, I’m still here next year. You never know, but a transfer is not in the plan.”- Soccer24 Zimbabwe
By Muneyi Zavare and Dr Masimba Mavaza. | The dark cloud hoovered on the British empire in September 2022 when the hand of death snatched the Queen from the Mother Earth. This was the death of the longest serving British Monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, a woman so revered by many across what is left of the empire and its Commonwealth of former colonies. Such was the popularity of the late monarch that an estimated 5.1 billion people watched the queen’s funeral across the world. Of course, others out of suppressed loathing as they regarded her as a symbol and figure head of the British establishment oppression.
However how one viewed the Queen, it would be factual to say that she was the apex of British diplomacy, with an excellent ability to welcome and accept all manner of individuals with diversified characters, be it Idi Amin from Uganda, Chile’s General Pinochet, Donald Trump from the USA or any leader the British establishment wanted to charm and do business with. Give it to Queen Elizabeth, she would make anyone feel like they were on Mount Elbrus or Everest for those of European origins and the real world’s tallest mountain measured from base to top, which is Mount Kilimanjaro, in Tanzania, Africa, for the rest of us. The Queen became Europe’s most important monarchy with an influence covering all continents of the world. The British had an empire in which the ‘sun never set’, they proudly boasted.
The Queen’s Sun Set Through Elizabeth the Second’s diplomatic skills, Britain managed to appear as a decent former colonial master and partner to many countries, especially in the Commonwealth. That was until when her inevitable ‘sun’ set arrived on the 8th of September 2022 during her annual stay at her favourite Balmoral Castle in Scotland. With her passing, it appears the British lost their sense of respect, a golden touch in managing international relations. Otherwise, how else can one explain the manner in which some world leaders were treated leading to and at the funeral of Elizabeth II. Enter the buses of ‘shame’ It is not an exaggeration to suggest that some Caribbean and African countries leaders are still to recover from the humiliation, embarrassing and shameful manner they were treated with during Queen Elizabeth’s funeral. Images of leaders from these countries inhabited by black people being ferried around in public and community coaches flabbergasted many in the countries they lead. It was almost impossible not to reminiscent about the historical treatment of Kunta Kinte. You could bring a million people from across generations, and all would swear with their ancestors, they had never seen their President Akufo Addo in a Ghana public bus or those in Kenya, their President Ruto grinning with arms resignedly folded.
Often the travels of these leaders is done with glitz, glamour and at times annoyance, with unnecessary drama too. Security vehicles with loud sirens that one can hear from a couple of miles, signal to motorists to pave way or face consequences. Just watch the number of security vehicles surrounding a US president, double that for some African or Caribbean political leaders. And this experience would have been both humbling and torturing to egos. The Queen’s funeral arrangements brought so much humbling and ridicule in equal measure to leaders from black Commonwealth countries. Most might have wondered what happened to the glorious, comfort filled, warm, respectful reception they previously experienced at Buckingham Palace as the British establishment charmed them for resources and advancement of interests using the late Queen. The horror faces explained the agony and feelings of these leaders as they travelled across the streets of London bundled in buses. Feigned smiles to the cameras by a few of them were more tellingly as to their embarrassment. These leaders like any other, often travel with carefully chosen photographers, friendly media people on these international trips. With the sole aim of capturing and projecting an image of revered statesmanship at international stages, back home to their people. Not during September 2022 at the funeral of Elizabeth II. It was troublingly embarrassing and a sign of diplomatic weakness by African and Caribbean leaders. Coronation of King Charles III With the coronation of King of Charles III coming less that ten weeks from now on the 6th of May 2023, we can be sure that invitations to attend have long been despatched once again to Commonwealth nations as well as other world leaders. British diplomats’ renown skills of persuasion will be at play, not that they need to use them anyway. As before and always with certainty, many will jump to accept an opportunity to grace the streets of London, hoping it will not be in a public coach again. But, surely, if officials at Buckingham Palace the King’s official working residence and Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office at King Charles 2 offices, London have respect for African and Commonwealth leaders, they would avoid the diplomatic faux pas in their plans. There should not be a repeat of that unequal treatment of African and Caribbean leaders compared to their compatriots from Canada, New Zealand or any European country.
Leaders from the former colonies deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. Heads of countries or governments from black Commonwealth countries and their advisers should think twice before they ready themselves to hop into planes to brave the Spring chilling weather of the UK for an English king’s coronation. They are best advised to scrutinise the plans being submitted, know the itinerary very well and how they will be treated at the coronation. Never should they willingly accept being treated like second class citizens. For these leaders, it is not just their image and dignity at stake, but also that of the billion plus black people they represent. The bus images of September 2022 at the Queen’s funeral should not be witnessed ever again. They must show courage, self-respect and pride, say no to indignity.
If Biden, Macron and Trudeau, USA, France and Canada leaders respectively are to be accorded respect, leaders from the African and Caribbean countries should be allowed to travel around in their vehicles, protected as should be by their security staff and that of the British Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection (PaDP). Welcome back to London leaders, Hail King Charles III, have grace. Respect!
A first-of-its-kind World Health Organization (WHO) Global report on sodium intake reduction shows that the world is off-track to achieve its global target of reducing sodium intake by 30% by 2025.
Sodium, an essential nutrient, increases the risk of heart disease, stroke and premature death when eaten in excess. The main source of sodium is table salt (sodium chloride), but it is also contained in other condiments such as sodium glutamate. The report shows that only 5% of WHO Member States are protected by mandatory and comprehensive sodium reduction policies and 73% of WHO Member States lack full range of implementation of such policies.
Implementing highly cost-effective sodium reduction policies could save an estimated 7 million lives globally by 2030. It is an important component of action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal target of reducing deaths from noncommunicable diseases. But today, only nine countries (Brazil, Chile, Czech Republic, Lithuania, Malaysia, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Spain and Uruguay) have a comprehensive package of recommended policies to reduce sodium intake.
“Unhealthy diets are a leading cause of death and disease globally, and excessive sodium intake is one of the main culprits,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “This report shows that most countries are yet to adopt any mandatory sodium reduction policies, leaving their people at risk of heart attack, stroke, and other health problems. WHO calls on all countries to implement the ‘Best Buys’ for sodium reduction, and on manufacturers to implement the WHO benchmarks for sodium content in food.”
A comprehensive approach to sodium reduction includes adopting mandatory policies and WHO’s four “best buy” interventions related with sodium which greatly contribute to preventing noncommunicable diseases. These include:
Reformulating foods to contain less salt, and setting targets for the amount of sodium in foods and meals Establishing public food procurement policies to limit salt or sodium rich foods in public institutions such as hospitals, schools, workplaces and nursing homes Front-of-package labelling that helps consumers select products lower in sodium Behaviour change communication and mass media campaigns to reduce salt/sodium consumption Countries are encouraged to establish sodium content targets for processed foods, in line with the WHO Global Sodium Benchmarks and enforce them though these policies.
Mandatory sodium reduction policies are more effective, as they achieve broader coverage and safeguard against commercial interests, while providing a level playing field for food manufacturers. As part of the report, WHO developed a Sodium country score card for Member States based on the type and number of sodium reduction policies they have in place.
“This important report demonstrates that countries must work urgently to implement ambitious, mandatory, government-led sodium reduction policies to meet the global target of reducing salt consumption by 2025,” said Dr Tom Frieden, President and CEO of Resolve to Save Lives, a not-for-profit organization working with countries to prevent 100 million deaths from cardiovascular disease over 30 years. “There are proven measures that governments can implement and important innovations, such as low sodium salts. The world needs action, and now, or many more people will experience disabling or deadly—but preventable—heart attacks and strokes.”
The global average salt intake is estimated to be 10.8 grams per day, more than double the WHO recommendation of less than 5 grams of salt per day (one teaspoon). Eating too much salt makes it the top risk factor for diet and nutrition-related deaths. More evidence is emerging documenting links between high sodium intake and increased risk of other health conditions such as gastric cancer, obesity, osteoporosis and kidney disease.
WHO calls on Member States to implement sodium intake reduction policies without delay and to mitigate the harmful effects of excessive salt consumption. WHO also calls on food manufacturers to set ambitious sodium reduction targets in their products.
To read the report, visit: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240069985
VOTER REGISTRATION WATCH: We’ve received a report that alleged ZANU PF activists took photos of our registration mobilizers at Domboramwari Reg Centre in Epworth. The police later came to interrogate the photographed mobilizers. Our peace monitors stepped in to protect them.
VOTER REGISTRATION WATCH: In Lobengula Magwegwe at Konron Centre, @ZECzim has turned away several potential new voters over lack of equipment to perform its constitutional duties.
@ZECzim must discharge it’s constitutional mandate.
ZecRespectConstitution
ZecMustReform
VOTER REGISTRATION WATCH: Our voter registration task force in Bulawayo has observed a deliberate ploy by @ZECzim to disfranchise potential new voters at the following Centres; Konron Entumbane Hall Rhodonite Malaika
We urge @ZECzim to do the honorable thing, REGISTER PEOPLE!!!
Tinashe Sambiri|CCC leader President Nelson Chamisa has implored the uniformed forces to be strong, objective and non-partisan in the execution of respective duties.
In a statement on Twitter, the CCC leader called for due diligence and unwavering professionalism among the uniformed forces.
“Dear Civil servants & our uniformed patriotic officers;I know what you are going through. Be strong, non-partisan and remain loyal to Zimbabwe and its citizens. Professionalism first not Cadreship.The darkest hour is just before dawn.The sun will soon rise in Zimbabwe. #OnePeople,” President Chamisa posted on Twitter.
“Dear Zimbabwe; It’s possible to get our country working & great again. It’s possible to wake up to a rewarding job in a Zimbabwe with a capable state,its own currency, electricity,water,high speed internet and the best roads, schools & hospitals. It’s possible. #RegisterToVoteNow,” added the CCC leader.
Tinashe Sambiri|CCC leader President Nelson Chamisa has implored the uniformed forces to be strong, objective and non-partisan in the execution of respective duties.
In a statement on Twitter, the CCC leader called for due diligence and unwavering professionalism among the uniformed forces.
“Dear Civil servants & our uniformed patriotic officers;I know what you are going through. Be strong, non-partisan and remain loyal to Zimbabwe and its citizens. Professionalism first not Cadreship.The darkest hour is just before dawn.The sun will soon rise in Zimbabwe. #OnePeople,” President Chamisa posted on Twitter.
“Dear Zimbabwe; It’s possible to get our country working & great again. It’s possible to wake up to a rewarding job in a Zimbabwe with a capable state,its own currency, electricity,water,high speed internet and the best roads, schools & hospitals. It’s possible. #RegisterToVoteNow,” added the CCC leader.
Gold is leading economic booster of major towns and growth points in Zimbabwe .
You have to understand how the economy of gold works .
Gold itself is currency that can be exchanged many times before reaching the reserve bank . You have to pick what meets your personality inorder to cut your piece in this larger cake of natural resource tactfully inorder to save resources and avoid risks.
These opportunities range from setting up a hardware in growth points , setting up a food out in growth points and as close as possible to the mines as possible, construction company, retail shop , clothing shops in growth points and many more .In this post we will cover direct opportunities right inside the mine .
1 Transport and logistics You buy a truck or tractor to service surrounding mines for a fee depending on local prices.
Consider the following when buying a tractor or truck
1 cheap: in order to compete well you should cut the cost of buying a tractor or truck preferably old model with parts available in the country. 2 reliable: get something that would be accessible easily; with less breakdowns, a good driver who can put up in the Bush with a functioning fone .
3 Affordable your pricing is should be reasonable or inline with local prices for innovators try pay “pay per view model ” . Charging per kilometre .
Budget between 6000usd and 10 000usd . Return on investment around 6months. Supply of raw materials by loan.
You sell directly to miners explosives, diesel and compressor by loan Explosives: help them to get a licence to store and use explosives then buy and sell to them at profit inside the licensed mine only .
Diesel supply diesel to miners at loan or agreed fee payment after milling.
Compressor hire : buy a compressor loan for shares and cash payments.
For the above three Budget starts from 2000usd upwards . Cyanide plant building: Budget 5000usd upwards this cannot be covered in one post .
Selling safety clothing: one of major high income with less capital is selling safety clothing to miners for cash regardless of how many outlets have been opened .
Diesel powered windlass: this is a Chinese version of headgear but cannot be classified as one can move a tonne of ore at once versus 0;1tonne for traditional human powered windlass. Mine compliance assistance : some people struggle to maintain and meet mining standards they could need financing. Budget open .
NB there are investments as low as 500usd but difficult to maintain and risky recommended for those already familiar with the industry.
Controversial hip-hop artist Mukudzei Chitsamapopularly ,known as Holy Ten, is crashing on CCC spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere in spite of glaring ideological differences as well as the wide age gap.
Holy Ten ( 24) stunned all and sundry when he expressed a burning desire to date Mahere( 37).
The controversial musician described Mahere as a cute lady, much to the chagrin of CCC sympathisers.
Holy Ten wrote on Twitter: “Fadzi Mahere kinda cute! Can I take you out for dinner nhai @advocatemahere.”
See below responses to Holy Ten’s sentiments:
Malacchi Chimonyo:
“Iwe bhangu usaite sezvinonzi ndiwe watanga kuendesa munhu kulunch…Why should we noe everything including paunokosora chaipo zvoshamisei zvelunch izvo Unoti vese vakanyarara havasikuenda kumaluch hre.”
Controversial hip-hop artist Mukudzei Chitsamapopularly ,known as Holy Ten, is crashing on CCC spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere in spite of glaring ideological differences as well as the wide age gap.
Holy Ten ( 24) stunned all and sundry when he expressed a burning desire to date Mahere( 37).
The controversial musician described Mahere as a cute lady, much to the chagrin of CCC sympathisers.
Holy Ten wrote on Twitter: “Fadzi Mahere kinda cute! Can I take you out for dinner nhai @advocatemahere.”
See below responses to Holy Ten’s sentiments:
Malacchi Chimonyo:
“Iwe bhangu usaite sezvinonzi ndiwe watanga kuendesa munhu kulunch…Why should we noe everything including paunokosora chaipo zvoshamisei zvelunch izvo Unoti vese vakanyarara havasikuenda kumaluch hre.”
A long-lasting cyclone that is refusing to dissipate has torn through Malawi and Mozambique killing at least 56 people and leaving many others injured or missing.
At least 51 have died in Malawi and five have been confirmed dead in Mozambique.
Authorities in Malawi say they expect the death toll to rise.
Cyclone Freddy hit Africa for the second time in a month on Saturday night causing widespread devastation.
It has broken records for the number of times it has re-intensified after weakening – seven times.
It is also set to be the longest-ever recorded tropical cyclone, and has the highest-ever recorded accumulated energy for a storm – that is how much energy a cyclone has released over a certain time.
So far, it has recorded more energy over its lifetime than a whole typical US hurricane season.
And the cyclone hasn’t subsided yet, according to French weather agency Meteo-France’s regional centre, which warned “the heaviest rains will continue over the next 48 hours”.
On Saturday, Freddy made landfall in the seaport of Quelimane in Zambezia province, Mozambique, where there were reports of damage to houses and farmlands.
One family in Malawi died after torrid winds and rain destroyed their house, according to authorities.
Among the victims is a three-year-old child who was “trapped in the debris” with her parents reported missing, authorities said.
On the toll of casualties and missing people, Malawi police spokesperson Peter Kalaya said: “We suspect that this figure will rise as we are trying to compile one national report from our southwest, southeast and eastern police offices which cover the affected areas.”
A Hillside landlady took her tenant to the Harare Civil Court accusing her of damaging her property.
Fiona Abdu told magistrate Tamara Chibindi that her tenant, Gamuchirai Marufu’s printing business, was disturbing her peace.
She runs a printing business and her machines have damaged all electrical sockets at my house. Her customers are always in my yard in numbers.
“I have told her to operate her business elsewhere, for security reasons, but it has been all in vain.
“She also connected cables from a room inside the house to an outside room. I told her to remove the cables because they pose a great danger, but she refuses to listen.” In response, Marufu denied all the allegations.
“I am using only one room and I did not connect any cables because, considering my height, I am not capable of connecting those cables as she is explaining it. I do not operate any printing business, it is impossible because I only use one room. “I cannot be operating a business which requires a lot of machines while staying in one room,” she said.
Magistrate Tamara Chibindi postponed the matter to tomorrow.
Despite the Zanu PF candidate in the 2018 presidential elections and now President Emmerson Mnangagwa promising uninterrupted power supply as part of his campaign message, Zimbabwe is still facing massive loadshedding that is almost threatening to disenfranchise new voters intending to register to vote in the August polls.
In a message shared on Twitter, the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission says some of its voter registration centres are experiencing technical difficulties owing to load-shedding.
“The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) hereby notifies the public that it is currently technical difficulties at some of registration centres. This is due to shortages of electricity affecting the charging of the BVR kits. The situation is also worsened by the cloudy weather, which affects the solar powered BVR kits,” said ZEC.
Mnangagwa is seeking a second term as President of Zimbabwe and the nation awaits his new promise on how his administration will end load-shedding.
H.E President Mnangagwa
V.P C.D.G.N Chiwenga
Min of Home Affairs Kazemb
CGP T.G Matanga
Badger – B.D Dube
Ref:- Bhora Musango Option by Buchwa Support Unit Members due to Malicious Long-illtreatment by OICs,Dispol Buchwa District.
We write to you all to express our disappointments here at Buchwa District Headquarters,our normal deployment period is 42 Days but we are forced to extend due to mal-administration by this Silly-Useless-Unprofessional type of Command you gave us in Buchwa.We expect a balance between our Duties and Welfare but that’s not the Case here in Buchwa.Our Old Dispol is always after Love with Civilians arround various places surrounding Buchwa ie Polant,Ingezi,Vugwi to mention but a few hence he doesn’t have focus for Work issues concerning our Welfare ,what type of a Silly and Useless Dispol you gave us ,he is abusing that Newly acquired Sub-Aqua Ford Ranger vehicle at times Sub-Aqua guys are delaying in attending Critical Scenes whilst the vehicles is busy with the Dispol at Fishing or Mahure or kunodhakwa zvake ,his Liutenant Supt Vurayayi was recently assaulted at Polant abatwa neMukadzi wemunhu aineAmbulance yeCamp Clinic a Nissan NP300 hence tarnishing Buchwa District.
Right now we are heading towards Watershed 2023 Elections,Our President is preaching Patriotism,No To Corruption at all Corners but Buchwa District what can stop us from voting for CCC coz of the type treatment we are receiving from these three Devils,just imagine we have been on Deployment since last year then we came here and this silly command selected people and grouped them as Mike Troop, Whisky Troop, Chikorokoza Ngachipere,VVIP , Parkgate but at Whisky Troop they called us for Pre-Annual Inspection Parade only but upon granting of Time-Off we were re-grouped and made not to go for Time-Off only those for Chikorokoza Ngachipere just because We refused to give them Bribe or Corruption monies for grant of Time-Off.Right now on Wednesday,those for Operation Chikorokoza only were made to fill pot-holes from DHQ to Buchwa Shops by Supt Vurayayi saying the instruction was from Dispol but he told our Officers In Charge for Chikorokoza Ngachipere Zvishavane, Shurugwi and Kwekwe and said this is a delaying tactic for you all to organize yourselves moita zvinoitwa.After having done nothing because we don’t have the requested monies to find these Silly Grandfathers’ pockets,they dragged us to PUC to conduct Public Order lessons we already did last year but to our surprise PUC detail a Sgt I can’t mention his name on condition of anonymity confessed that PUC doesn’t have any programs with Mike Troop, Whisky Troop, Chikorokoza, VVIP, Parkgate but only for 38 Officers and Members who didn’t participated in 2022 Public Order session but the process went on coz it was only Pressure for us to shake-up,pannick and give them monies.We don’t have the monies isusu,taitumira US$30 for Superintendents each then US$40 for Dispol himself on various intervals on pressure basis because they do have the sole belief that we get monies at Chikorokoza yet not,we fund for the purchase of Batteries, Wheels etc then they demand monies on top of that,what a silly mess you Country Fore-Fathers,why can’t you maintain that policy of dismissing all those who have attained 50yrs of Age in ZRP coz they are not yet focussing on your sole instructed business but funding their pockets hanzi Taakuroverakuenda Saka ngavaende vasativarova coz they are destroying you gradually.Just imagine I am receiving numerous calls now whilst am Home hanzi Huya neMari tipe Mashefu ndiwe watomisa Off yevanhu ,I have switched off my Phone coz of that pressure.Yatakakupai iyoyo it’s enough VaMbwa imi nxaaa we need Time-Off to attend to our Families on preparation for Retirement,Enough is Enough ,if nothing is done then kuDHQ ikoko we shall make a Demonstration in pursuit of Mari dzedu dzamakatora,our Money yamakatora,hamunyare here kuramba muchitipa pressure for our Monies ,hee you will be on Standby then Monday we will see kuti we devide you into two Groups ,you think Monday we will have given you Money toiwanepi isusu ,we don’t have Corruption Companies which give us monies So enough is enough Mashefu muchanzwa kuti kuBuchwa Chachaya ,we need Time Off to attend to our Families,Homes etc not kunetswa neMbwa idzi or else we will vote for Opposition coz this type of Command are a combination of Destroyers,Rebels,Corrupt Opportunists ,if they are tired of supporting the Gvt of the day they better resign paving way for Patriots with Gvt policies at Heart not these who craft their Own policies for the sake of Corruption.Nehwasvi,Vurayayi,Mahwendepi,Sakukwanya nevamwe hatichavada coz of Corruption rimwe rinofira mahara one day,makatora Mari dzedu imimi muchitibira,takabirwa Mari yekwaMatutu uko naSakukwanya hanzi ndapa Dispol yet lying then today we are suffering after 86 Days on Deployment,Buchwa has got a Standby Team but we have been piled there for the reason to give them monies Nxaa To Hell vaMbwa imimi you think you untouchable,VP Chiwenga please these people vanetsa.We are being Infringed of our Rights.Chipwava and Zveshure vekuBuchwa Operations ndivo vanobatsira kurongwa kwekutorwa Mari dzedu kana pasina Mari votumwa kuti Hakuna Off etc What a Mercy.We are tired,Enough is Enough,Fuel ikavepo inotambiswa thereafter tagarisa hatichapiwa Off Saka toshandasei nyange ndimiwo.President we want Time Off not kumbinyikidzwa nevanhu vanogadzira maPolicies avo like Nehwasvi, Vurayayi, Mahwendepi etc vanotonetsera Mari yet Salary haikwane but they want our Monies kutibata ,hanzi naInspector wataivenaye Shurugwi hanzi Vakomana isai mbijana ndowedzera then towana kunoona Mashefu coz ndozvavataura Nxaaa To Hell enda unovapa yako kana unayo Mari yekupa Mabonga asingadekusiya Basa kudakufira paBasa nxaaa.This type of Command yanetsa,yashungurudza even Member ikafa they remain silent,no Assistance,they love us whilst on Deployment but on Welfare issues they disappear kuenda kuChihure,Fishing etc wotoshaya kuti What are we going .Dzingai Imbwa idzi We need focussed Command.We need Time Off urgently coz we spent 86 days,we are not entitled to buy Time Off but to rest Ok.HE please push that Badger to act otherwise don’t count Votes at Buchwa coz we are tired of this Mess ,We like our Work,Gvt etc but our focus is now diversed,we are fade-up.
Just imagine kushaiswa Off coz we are to pay Monies to an Elderly,Whiteheaded person Nxaaa that’s shit indeed .This mist cease ,kana matadzakuita Action tojamuka Buchwa District just because of the Command.Badger knows kuti Buchwa haina Command akambotaura last time.
No To Corruption,No To Infringement of Our Welfare,Rights ,Demanding of Bribe Monies ,No To Corruption Chains at Ops Buchwa .We need new crop of Commanders etc if No Action you will see Ok
We hope for Action before Monday coz it’s now too much Ok.We have been silent but they think they are doing the right thing yet tarnishing Gvt,ZRP, Destroying our young families.
This must Stop Now Now Nxaaa,Buchwa is now like a Prison Nxaa To Hell vanaMbwa ava mhani
Thank you your Excellence
We expect a change in Buchwa,We need to go for Time Off not to serve Jail Sentences for Offences we didn’t committed,We don’t have to buy Time Off Ok.
Tanzwa veduweee pindirai,muchanzwa kuti Pfuti dzashanda kuno kupfura Imbwa idzi dzanetsa.Everything vanoda Mari aaah toiwanepi isusu,we don’t have Such dependants who are employed Ok.Tinoda Off yedu now now now kana musingade nayo regedzai not kutipa pressure hakuna Mari yandinouya nayo inini handina Mari yemunhu.Sungai kana muchisunga ndouya pandinodira buritsai Awol Radio kuti ndarambakuuya neMari Mbwa dzevanhu Kunyimira vanhu Off kuti ndatadzakuuya neMari yaani Mari yacho,CGP or Badger or President akati tofanirwakutenga Off here or kupiwa.Now 86days on deployment then you demand Mari from us mukwane imimi Nxaaa.To Hell Makudo eVanhu,endai kunorera Vazukulu kana musingachade Basa Fusekeeeee
By A Correspondent | CCC President Nelson Chamisa has clapped back at publisher Trevor Ncube who has continued piling character-accusations against him since 2018.
Trevor Ncube- file credit M&G
3 days ago, Ncube revived his 4 year old sensational accusations with which he claims Chamisa has accepted bribes from his rival Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Said Ncube:
Ncube who once said Chamisa’s mentor Morgan Tsvajgurai is the worst thing to happen in Zimbabwe next to Robert Mugabe, has over the years been suggesting that Chamisa is unsuitable for leadership.
Nov 2017 tweet
Commenting, Chamisa described Ncube as “sick people [who] have sick hallucinations and imaginations.”
He continued saying, they must leave me alone if I’m such a horrible person…Why can’t they concentrate on their own candidates they believe in?” he asked.
Vice President Kamala Harris will travel to Ghana, Tanzania and Zimbabwe’s neighboring country Zambia as part of her Africa tour later this month.
Her trip comes as the administration seeks to bolster its relationships with African countries, as competitors like Russia and China have made inroads in the region.
Harris is scheduled to visit Ghana, Tanzania and Zambia in a historic trip, her first visit to the continent since becoming vice president. And it will be the first time a Black US vice president visits the region, amplifying Harris’ historic role and high-profile trip. Second gentleman Doug Emhoff will join her on the trip.
In a statement, Harris’ press secretary Kirsten Allen said the vice president’s trip will “strengthen the United States’ partnerships throughout Africa and advance our shared effort on security and economic prosperity.”
Harris’ trip is the latest of several US officials who plan on visiting, or have visited, Africa. First lady Jill Biden returned from her trip to Africa earlier this month. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and US Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield visited earlier this year. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will travel to Ethiopia and Niger this week, and President Joe Biden is expected to visit the continent later this year.
“Throughout the trip, in partnership with African governments and the private sector, the Vice President will advance efforts to expand access to the digital economy, support climate adaptation and resilience, and strengthen business ties and investment, including through innovation, entrepreneurship, and the economic empowerment of women,” Allen wrote.
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Harris will first visit Ghana, then Tanzania and then end the weeklong trip in Zambia before returning to Washington. The vice president will hold bilateral meetings with presidents from the three countries to discuss “regional and global priorities, including our shared commitment to democracy, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, food security, and the effects of Russia’s unprovoked war in Ukraine, among other issues.”
She plans to build on the commitments made during the US-Africa Leaders Summit in December, when the president hosted nearly 50 African leaders in Washington. In her remarks at the time, Harris framed the US as the preferable choice over Beijing and Moscow.
“Our administration will invest our time and our energy to fortify partnerships across the continent. Partnerships grounded in candor, openness, inclusiveness, shared interests and mutual benefits,” she said at the summit. “And overall, our administration will be guided not by what we can do for Africa but what we can do with Africa.”
Allen said Harris will focus on strengthening that message while engaging on the ground with the African Diaspora.
The vice president’s trip may also feel like a sort of homecoming after she spent time there as a young girl in the 1960’s, according to The Los Angeles Times, when visiting her maternal grandfather who was on assignment in his role as an Indian civil servant.
By A Correspondent | ZANU PF President Emmerson Mnangagwa is flying to UK for King Charles’ coronation, ZimEye can reveal.
Sources at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the development to ZimEye which will be the Gukurahundi massacre architect’s first visit to London in over 20 years. It will also be his first to be a free man on UK soil since the UN COP26 conference when opposition protesters blocked him from drinking beer with his ZANU PF supporters in Glasgow.
The Coronation of The King and The Queen Consort will be marked with events across the country and a concert at Windsor Castle, Windsor castle announces. Their Majesties want to encourage people to spend the Coronation Weekend celebrating with friends, families and their communities.
The Coronation Service
The Coronation of The King and The Queen Consort will take place at Westminster Abbey on Saturday 6th May 2023.
The Service will be conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury and will reflect the Monarch’s role today and look towards the future, while being rooted in longstanding traditions and pageantry.
Their Majesties will arrive at Westminster Abbey in procession from Buckingham Palace, known as ‘The King’s Procession’.
Meanwhil, it is highly unlikely that Mnangagwa will be allowed a motorcade and he will most likely be most likely be confined to a bus like other African heads of state as was done when king Charles ascended the throne last year.
One of DUZ party leader, Robert Chapman's daughters has changed her surname in disgust after the dad went for years without paying maintenance. She has since taken on her step dad's surname. She (name withheld) tells ZimEye, she has no regrets whatsoever about him being exposed. pic.twitter.com/0hS5QacnZu
