By A Correspondent | ZimEye | Multiple sources have reported that President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s deejay, Kaycee (Kudzaishe Chipadza) has died in a British hotel.
“It is confirmed, “ a source told ZimEye at 10am on Monday.
Family members including Chipadza’s wife confirmed the development during a phonecall with ZimEye.
The name of the hotel was not disclosed at the time of writing, though the report stated that he was inside a hotel room with an unidentified woman (only cited as Mpho) at the time of writing.
Kudzaishe Chipadza
Further details were sketchy at the time of writing.
Many Zimbabweans will remember Chipadza as a visa dealer who walked off with hundreds of thousands of pounds from migrants who were hoping for greener pastures, he disappointed.
Police confirms the arrest of NhlanhlaNcube a male adult aged 36 years, of Old Magwegwe Bulawayo in connection with a spate of armed robbery cases which occurred in Bulawayo.
The accused person and his three other accomplices LearmoreSibanda a male adult aged 23 years, Farai Sibanda a male adult aged 40 years both from Cowdray Park Bulawayo and the third one only known as Prosper who are still at large have been committing armed robbery cases around Bulawayo during March 2023.
On the 02nd of March 2025 at around 2250 hours, the accused person and his accomplices arrived at a certain Sports Bar inTshabalala, Bulawayo armed with pistols and knife and they found the complainant a male adult aged 21 of Old Magwegwe, Bulawayo preparing to close the bar. They ordered everyone to lie down and went behind the counter demanded for cash. They took cash amounting to US$1000, a Techno and Huawei cellphones. On their way out the accused persons took some whiskey 2 x marula, 2 x two keys and 2 x Best 750ml. Total value stolen is US$1130-00.
The accused persons proceed to another Tarven in Nketa 7 armed with pistols and knives and ordered everyone down. They jumped over the counter and captured the cashier a female adult aged 27 years demanding for cash and keys to the safe. The accused force marched complainant to open the safe but she had no keys. They then ransacked the whole place and found the keys of the strong room. They opened the strong room where they stole all the cash amounting to $190 00. All the patrons who were there were ordered to surrender their cellphones and cash. Total value stolen is US$981-00 and nothing was recovered.
On the 16th of March 2025 at around 1950 hours, the accused person and his accomplices went to another General Dealer in Pumula Old shops Bulawayo armed with pistols, upon entering the shop one accused pointed the firearm at the shop assistant a male adult aged 28 years of Emthunzini Bulawayo and demanded for cash. They took all the cash that was in the tilland went away. Total value stolen is USD 190-00 and nothing was recovered.
Acting upon a tip off received on the whereabouts of Nhlanhla Ncube Police proceeded to a certain house in and managed to arrest him. Upon interviews the accused person admitted to have committed these robberies with his accomplices. Searches were conducted at his place of residence and the following items were recovered; a tablet, machetes, sword knife, worksuits, a black AK-SA ARMS A21 blank gun, Pick head and two small axes. The total value of all the stolen property is US$ 2301-00 and nothing recovered.
We appreciate the members of the public for proving information that led to the arrest of the accused person we also appeal to anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of the outstanding accused persons to come forward.
By Municipal Reporter-Over 9,000 families are facing eviction from Harare City Council-owned properties, in what critics say is the latest fallout from Sengezo Tshabangu’s controversial rise within the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) and his alleged collusion with the ruling Zanu PF party.
The evictions are being spearheaded by Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume, a former MDC Alliance official now aligned with Tshabangu, who controversially declared himself CCC interim secretary general in 2023.
Tshabangu’s actions have been widely condemned as a Zanu PF-engineered scheme to decimate Zimbabwe’s strongest opposition force from within.
In late 2023 and throughout 2024, Tshabangu triggered a political earthquake by recalling dozens of CCC Members of Parliament, senators, and councillors, including some elected under the leadership of Nelson Chamisa, effectively handing control of Parliament and local authorities back to Zanu PF or its proxies.
He claimed the recalled representatives were no longer members of the party, despite having no formal mandate or founding role within the CCC.
Many viewed his actions as part of a broader strategy to weaken democratic institutions and consolidate authoritarian rule.
Now, that political maneuvering appears to be translating into real suffering on the ground. Harare City Council Housing Manager Edgar Dzehonye revealed this week that mass evictions are imminent due to widespread non-payment of rentals.
“The City of Harare owns about 10,000 rented properties and only less than 10% of tenants are up to date with their payments,” Dzehonye said. “We are issuing final demand notices that will run for 14 days, after which eviction notices will be served.”
Dzehonye acknowledged that some tenants were subletting properties, and that the council was “not in the business of making people suffer,” but insisted that obligations must be fulfilled.
Mayor Mafume’s leadership has been under scrutiny since Tshabangu’s faction took over council decision-making.
Critics argue that under his watch, service delivery has deteriorated while punitive measures, such as mass evictions and demolitions, have increased—often targeting opposition strongholds and informal settlements.
By A Correspondent-The government has announced the commencement of rehabilitation works on the long-neglected Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road, but the project is already drawing criticism amid widespread concerns of corruption, inflated costs, and poor workmanship—hallmarks of previous road infrastructure projects linked to companies associated with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s inner circle.
The new project comes just days after Mnangagwa commissioned the controversial and poorly constructed Mbudzi Traffic Interchange he calls Trabablas Traffic Interchange in Harare—a multi-million-dollar venture that has become a symbol of graft, shoddy workmanship, and elite enrichment.
The Mbudzi project, executed by the shadowy companies which includes politically connected contractors, has been heavily criticised for missed deadlines, collapsing detours, cost overruns, and lack of transparency.
Analysts warn that the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road upgrade may follow a similar trajectory.
The 435-kilometre highway is a vital regional trade and tourism corridor linking Zimbabwe to Zambia, Botswana, and Namibia. Yet, despite its strategic importance, the road has deteriorated into a death trap over the past decade—riddled with potholes, eroded shoulders, and crumbling surfaces that endanger motorists and stifle economic activity in Matabeleland North.
On Friday, President Mnangagwa greenlit the new rehabilitation project, awarding contracts to five local firms, raising eyebrows given the track record of politically aligned contractors previously tasked with national infrastructure works. Out of eight companies that reportedly bid for the project, five were selected under opaque circumstances that have prompted fresh concerns over cronyism and tender rigging.
Speaking to state media, Matabeleland North Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Richard Moyo confirmed that the contractors were mobilising and would meet Transport Minister Felix Mhona in Gwayi for the official launch on Thursday.
“The Minister of Transport will meet the five contractors on-site,” said Moyo. “We are grateful to President Mnangagwa for prioritising this highway, which is vital for the province’s economy.”
The project is expected to take 10 months, with each contractor responsible for a section of the road in a kilometre-by-kilometre phased approach. However, many Zimbabweans remain sceptical, recalling the long list of abandoned or poorly executed projects that have benefitted politically exposed individuals while delivering little to the public.
Critics point to previous road projects—including the Beitbridge–Harare highway dualisation and the Mbudzi Interchange—as case studies in how the Mnangagwa administration has turned public infrastructure contracts into feeding troughs for loyalists. In many instances, companies with no verifiable construction experience have been awarded lucrative tenders, only to deliver substandard work or abandon sites altogether after being paid hefty advances.
The Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road, which serves thousands of domestic travellers and international tourists annually, is essential for trade and tourism. It also facilitates the movement of coal and other resources from the Hwange region. Yet years of government neglect have left it in a perilous state.
Minister Moyo claims the rehabilitation will improve road safety, reduce vehicle maintenance costs, create jobs, and stimulate local businesses—particularly in the tourism and logistics sectors.
But civil society groups, transport operators, and residents say they’ve heard it all before.
As the roadworks begin, the nation watches with a mix of hope and suspicion. Many fear that, unless there is a drastic shift in how contracts are awarded and monitored, the rehabilitation of the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road may turn into yet another monument to corruption and mediocrity—just like the Mbudzi Interchange that Mnangagwa hailed with fanfare but which locals now call a “white elephant.”
Unless checks and balances are enforced, Zimbabwe’s critical infrastructure risks remaining trapped in a cycle of decay, looting, and empty political slogans.
By A Correspondent-The government deported 239 foreign nationals in the first quarter of 2025, down from 385 during the same period last year, in what officials describe as part of a broader immigration enforcement strategy.
The figures were revealed by the Immigration Department’s chief director, Ms Respect Gono, who also reported that 146 foreign nationals were arrested between January and March for allegedly violating immigration laws.
Those arrested include 37 Malawians, 24 Ethiopians, 21 Chinese nationals, and 19 Congolese, along with smaller numbers from Mozambique, Zambia, and other countries.
The intensified border control and enforcement operations echo South Africa’s increasingly hardline and, some say, xenophobic immigration policies—where migrants, particularly from other African countries, are often scapegoated for internal socio-economic failures. For Zimbabwe, this shift marks a significant departure from the Pan-African ideals once espoused by former President Robert Mugabe, who welcomed African migrants fleeing war, colonial repression, and political instability.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration has sought to portray the crackdown as part of a drive to regulate migration, attract legitimate investors, and promote national development. Ms Gono praised what she described as “policy reforms” and “increased openness,” which she said were responsible for the rise in both arrests and investor interest.
“Modern societies are a result of well-harnessed migration opportunities,” Gono said. “Our vision for an upper-middle-income economy by 2030 is within reach, thanks in part to our strong migration governance systems.”
Paradoxically, while arrests have surged, deportations have declined—raising questions about the effectiveness or intent behind the new immigration measures.
Despite the tougher stance on irregular migration, Ms Gono insisted that Zimbabwe remains an attractive destination for migrants and investors alike. She cited a 17% increase in overall traveller movement, with more than 2 million entries and exits recorded in the first quarter of 2025, up from 1.79 million during the same period in 2024.
Investor confidence, she added, is on the rise. The number of investor residence permits issued jumped from 333 in Q1 2024 to 454 in Q1 2025. However, Temporary Employment Permits (TEPs) declined slightly from 2,629 to 2,249.
Still, the government’s aggressive “Comply or Leave” campaign has sparked concern. Gono revealed that 65 joint operations targeting undocumented migrants were conducted in the first quarter—more than double the number recorded last year. While she defended the campaign as a means to promote “safe, regular and orderly migration,” critics say the initiative mirrors the exclusionary tone of South Africa’s Operation Dudula and similar efforts.
Political analysts suggest that Mnangagwa’s government may be leveraging anti-immigrant rhetoric as a political strategy. With economic recovery faltering and public dissatisfaction growing, migrants may be used as convenient scapegoats to divert attention from governance failures.
The crackdown is particularly jarring in light of Zimbabwe’s post-independence history, which once championed African unity. Under Mugabe, Zimbabwe positioned itself as a sanctuary for liberation fighters and political refugees across the continent. That legacy, critics argue, is being dismantled under Mnangagwa’s watch.
While the government continues to applaud its own migration governance framework, civil society organisations warn that the increasingly securitised approach could fuel xenophobia and tarnish Zimbabwe’s image as a Pan-African nation.
As Harare tightens its borders and cracks down on migrants, a pressing question arises: Is Zimbabwe turning its back on the ideals that once defined its post-colonial identity?
As the race for the Insiza North Constituency by-election intensifies, the ruling ZANU PF party has launched a vigorous campaign to retain the seat — a campaign some critics allege is marred by vote-buying tactics and political coercion.
ZANU PF’s candidate, Delani Moyo, has received firm backing from the party’s provincial leadership, with senior figures urging supporters to close ranks. Speaking during a campaign rally held on a chilly Saturday, ZANU PF Matabeleland South Vice Chairperson, Albert Nguluvhe, emphasized the importance of party unity and discipline.
“I know through our democratic processes we held our primary elections and we had seven contestants, but one emerged,” said Nguluvhe. “Now it is no longer about the other candidates — it’s about ZANU PF. We need to demonstrate maturity and ensure that we deliver this seat. It is ours.”
Echoing the call for solidarity, ZANU PF National Consultative member Patrick Hove added, “We have to ensure that we set aside our differences if we have any, and deliver this seat. We can only do that when we are united.”
However, as ZANU PF ramps up its campaign, opposition parties have begun to raise red flags. They accuse the ruling party of leveraging state resources and engaging in vote-buying to tilt the playing field. Allegations have surfaced of food aid and farming inputs being distributed selectively to potential voters in what critics say is an unethical bid to secure support ahead of the vote.
“The use of public resources to sway voters is unacceptable and undermines the credibility of the election,” said a spokesperson for ZAPU, whose candidate Thabani Mlotshwa is one of three contenders challenging ZANU PF. “This election is not only about a parliamentary seat — it is a test of whether democracy still has a pulse in Zimbabwe.”
ZANU PF has dismissed the allegations as unfounded, maintaining that the party’s activities are part of standard campaign practices.
The Insiza North seat became vacant following the death of the incumbent, Farai Taruvinga, in March this year. The upcoming by-election has attracted four candidates: Delani Moyo of ZANU PF, Thabani Mlotshwa of ZAPU, Mbongeni Moyo of the Zimbabwe National Revival Party, and independent candidate Lesley Dube.
As the campaign enters its final stretch, all eyes are on Insiza — not just for who wins, but for what the election will say about the fairness of Zimbabwe’s political landscape.
Hello everyone! I come with great joy to share some good news — the suspects who stole my mobile phones and wheelchair charger have been caught, and some of my belongings have been recovered.
After I reported the case to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) at Norton Urban Police Station, the officers immediately took action. I want to thank the Officer-in-Charge, who assigned Assistant Chief Inspector Jowa to the case. He then delegated Inspector Masadza, Sergeant Mushipe, Sergeant Gururwa, Constable Ncube, and Constable Chirongwe. These officers worked tirelessly, day and night, and I’m deeply grateful for their dedication.
The theft involved two suspects. One of them, known as Mashak Chalmers, was apprehended, while the other suspect, Nyasha Chibwe, is still at large but is expected to be caught soon. So far, my mobile phones have been recovered, and only the wheelchair charger remains missing.
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the police officers involved and to their superiors for their leadership. I encourage them to continue serving the community with the same commitment they showed in my case. Words cannot fully express how thankful I am for their hard work and genuine concern.
The Zimbabwe National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ZNSPCA) has confirmed the tragic death of 39-year-old Samuel Machara, following a vicious dog attack at a private residence in Mabelreign. The fatal incident, involving a cross-breed pit bull dog owned by 40-year-old Mike Mupinga, has reignited urgent calls for tighter animal welfare regulations across the country.
In a statement issued today, the ZNSPCA expressed “profound sadness and deep regret” over the incident and extended heartfelt condolences to the Machara family. According to the statement, Mr. Machara succumbed to severe injuries sustained during the dog attack.
ZNSPCA officers responded promptly, removing all dogs from the property and humanely euthanising them in accordance with animal welfare protocols. Preliminary assessments pointed to “neglect, confinement, and poor socialisation” of the dogs — conditions that can dangerously exacerbate aggression in certain high-risk breeds.
The organisation cautioned the public against irresponsible pet ownership, particularly the breeding and keeping of dangerous dog breeds without the necessary training, socialisation, and secure containment. “These animals require specialised handling… If neglected, [this] can result in tragic consequences,” the ZNSPCA warned.
The society reaffirmed its commitment to:
• Promoting responsible pet ownership,
• Upholding animal welfare standards,
• Supporting legal action against individuals guilty of cruelty or neglect.
Calling the attack a dire consequence of backyard breeding and unregulated dog ownership, ZNSPCA urged local authorities and lawmakers to implement and enforce tougher animal control laws, including strict custodial sentences for violators.
“We urgently call on members of the public not to keep dogs if unable to provide proper care, safety, and socialisation. Ownership is a responsibility – not a right,” the statement read.
The ZNSPCA concluded by offering guidance and assistance to the public through its Harare branch and inspectorate, encouraging anyone in need of support or wishing to surrender an animal to contact them directly.
As Zimbabweans reel from the unveiling of the flawed $88 million Trabablas Interchange, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government has sparked new controversy by awarding five more road contracts—this time for the long-dilapidated Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road.
The 435km stretch, crucial to Zimbabwe’s tourism and trade sectors, is finally set for rehabilitation. But coming just days after the unfinished, flood-risk-prone Trabablas Interchange was commissioned with crumbling embankments, missing road markings, and wooden signposts, critics are asking: how can the same government justify issuing more contracts without accountability for the last scandal?
A Dangerous Pattern of “Build Now, Fix Later”?
In a press briefing on Sunday, Matabeleland North Provincial Affairs Minister Richard Moyo confirmed that five contractors had been selected from eight applicants. He praised President Mnangagwa for “prioritising this highway,” while revealing that Transport Minister Felix Mhona will launch the project on Thursday in Gwayi.
However, no public details were provided about which companies were selected, what their past performance has been, or whether competitive bidding was involved — an omission that instantly triggered alarm bells.
“After what we saw at Trabablas, Zimbabweans are owed full transparency,” said a civil engineering analyst. “We just saw $88 million go into a visibly defective interchange. Now we’re trusting the same leadership with another major artery? On what basis?”
Tourism Lifeline or Another Sinking Pit?
The Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road is vital to Zimbabwe’s tourism economy, linking the country’s second-largest city with Victoria Falls and key border posts into Zambia, Botswana, and Namibia. Years of potholes, erosion, and collapsing shoulders have made it a high-risk route — frequently blamed for fatal accidents and soaring logistics costs.
Yet the concern isn’t about whether the road should be rehabilitated — it’s how and by whom.
“Tourism depends on safety, predictability, and quality infrastructure,” said one Victoria Falls-based tour operator. “If this becomes another Trabablas-type showpiece for looting and corner-cutting, it could do more harm than good.”
Missing: Independent Oversight
What remains conspicuously absent from both the Trabablas and Bulawayo–Vic Falls projects is independent oversight and engineering review. Zimbabwe’s public works continue to be plagued by no-tender awards, opaque cost escalations, and politically connected contractors with questionable track records — such as Fossil Contracting, central to the Trabablas consortium.
An audit of the Trabablas project is yet to be made public. Meanwhile, reports of structural shortcuts, brittle sand embankments, and missing basic road elements have become viral symbols of national mismanagement.
The Real Test Begins
President Mnangagwa may be counting on ribbon-cutting optics and grand pronouncements to shift focus from Trabablas. But the public is watching.
Until full disclosure of contractors, details of the financing, and a published timetable of deliverables are released, many Zimbabweans will remain skeptical — and rightly so.
After all, if $88 million couldn’t buy paint and proper drainage in Harare, what hope does Bulawayo–Vic Falls have under the same system?
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RELATED QUESTIONS ZIMBABWEANS ARE ASKING:
• Will these five contracts be subject to independent audit from day one?
• Are any of the contractors linked to the same firms behind Trabablas?
• Has government learned anything — or is this just Trabablas 2.0 on a longer road?
MBUDZI INTERCHANGE: A STARK REMINDER OF MATABELELAND’S MARGINALIZATION
The Mthwakazi Republic Party condemns the government’s blatant marginalization of Matabeleland, exemplified by the recent construction of the Mbudzi Interchange in Mashonaland and the promise of six more in Harare. This development highlights the glaring disparity in infrastructure priorities, where the needs of Matabeleland are consistently ignored.
The Mbudzi Interchange holds little significance for the people of Mthwakazi. What matters most is fixing the Victoria Falls road, which remains in a sorry state, crippling the lives of our people and stifling local economic growth. The Nkayi road has been stagnant for over three decades, and Bulawayo’s water crisis persists with no solution in sight.
Meanwhile, the government exploits our region’s natural resources, using our own roads to transport coal, timber, and lithium without investing in the welfare and development of our communities. This blatant disregard for our region’s needs and aspirations is unacceptable.
The MRP notes a long history of systemic marginalization, including:
Inadequate infrastructure
Limited economic opportunities
Disregard for our cultural heritage
We call upon the government to recognize the needs and aspirations of the people of Matabeleland and to address the historical injustices that have led to our region’s underdevelopment.
The Mthwakazi Republic Party remains committed to advocating for the rights and interests of our people. We will not stand idly by while our region is ignored and marginalized.
By A Correspondent- The government has announced the arrest of 146 foreign nationals for allegedly violating immigration laws in the first quarter of 2025.
The arrests, revealed by Immigration Department chief director Ms Respect Gono, mark a sharp rise from the 122 detained in the same period last year.
Those arrested include nationals from Malawi (37), Ethiopia (24), China (21), the Democratic Republic of Congo (19), and smaller numbers from Mozambique, Zambia, and elsewhere.
The intensification of border control measures and deportation threats bears an uncanny resemblance to South Africa’s increasingly xenophobic immigration policies, where migrants—particularly from other African nations—have become scapegoats for internal socio-economic failures.
For Zimbabwe, this marks a dramatic departure from the inclusive, Pan-African values once championed by former President Robert Mugabe, who positioned Zimbabwe as a home for all Africans fleeing imperialism, colonial legacy, or political instability.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government has tried to frame the crackdown as part of a broader strategy to regulate migration and attract legitimate investors.
Ms Gono credited what she termed “policy reforms” and “increased openness” for the rise in both arrests and investor interest.
“Modern societies are a result of well-harnessed migration opportunities,” she said. “Our vision for an upper-middle-income economy by 2030 is within reach, thanks in part to our strong migration governance systems.”
Paradoxically, while arrests surged, deportations have declined. Only 239 prohibited immigrants were deported in the first quarter of 2025, compared to 385 during the same period in 2024. Ms Gono attributed this to improved screening and early interventions.
Despite the government’s hardline approach to irregular migration, Ms Gono maintained that Zimbabwe remains a top destination for both migrants and investors. She cited a 17% increase in traveller movement, with over 2 million entries and exits recorded in Q1 2025, up from 1.79 million in the same period the previous year.
Investor confidence, she said, was on the rise, noting that investor residence permits rose from 333 in Q1 2024 to 454 in Q1 2025. However, Temporary Employment Permits (TEPs) dipped slightly from 2,629 to 2,249.
Still, the government’s “Comply or Leave” campaign has raised eyebrows. Ms Gono revealed that 65 joint operations targeting irregular migration were conducted in the first quarter—more than double the number from last year.
While she insisted the campaign aimed to uphold “safe, regular and orderly migration,” observers argue it echoes the exclusionary undertones seen in South Africa’s Operation Dudula and similar campaigns.
Political analysts say Mnangagwa’s embrace of anti-foreigner rhetoric could be a calculated political tactic.
With economic recovery still elusive and domestic discontent growing, the government may be turning to migrants as convenient scapegoats to deflect attention from its own governance failures.
The move is especially jarring in the historical context of Zimbabwe’s post-independence identity, which under Mugabe was anchored in African solidarity.
During the liberation war and its aftermath, Zimbabwe provided sanctuary to freedom fighters and political refugees from across the continent.
That legacy, critics argue, is now being eroded under Mnangagwa’s administration.
Police in Harare have arrested a 40-year-old man following the tragic death of a local resident who was allegedly mauled by a pitbull in the suburb of Mabelreign. The incident, which has shocked the community, occurred on the morning of 1 June 2025.
According to a statement released by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), officers from the Mabelreign Police Station apprehended Mike Mupinga, the owner of the dog, on charges of culpable homicide. The arrest came after the body of Samuel Machara, 39, was discovered near Mupinga’s residence bearing severe dog bite wounds.
Authorities believe that the victim was attacked by Mupinga’s pitbull under unclear circumstances. The dog inflicted fatal injuries, and Machara succumbed to his wounds before any assistance could be rendered. His body was transported to the Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals mortuary, where a postmortem examination is expected to be carried out.
The case has ignited renewed concern about the risks associated with aggressive dog breeds, particularly when kept in densely populated residential areas. Although pitbulls are often used for security purposes, animal welfare experts caution that without proper training, restraint, and secure containment, they can pose significant danger to the public.
Police have indicated that investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances of the attack, including whether the pitbull was adequately contained and if there were any prior incidents or warnings involving the animal.
The ZRP has called on dog owners to exercise full responsibility for their animals, urging them to ensure that potentially dangerous breeds are safely enclosed and do not pose a threat to neighbors or passersby. The Mabelreign community is mourning the loss of Machara, with the tragedy serving as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation unfolds.
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) delivered a footballing masterclass on Saturday night, demolishing Inter Milan 5-0 to lift their first-ever UEFA Champions League trophy in a lopsided final that left fans and pundits stunned.
Teen sensation Désiré Doué was the star of the night, scoring twice in a dominant display that capped a fairytale European campaign for the Parisians.
The 19-year-old’s brilliance helped bury a lacklustre Inter side that simply couldn’t cope with PSG’s intensity and creativity.
After years of near misses and heartbreaks—including a 1-0 loss to Bayern Munich in the 2020 final—PSG finally delivered on their long-promised European potential under manager Luis Enrique.
The Qatari-backed club, which flirted with elimination in the group stage this season, saved its best for the grandest stage.
PSG wasted no time asserting their dominance, with Achraf Hakimi—ironically a former Inter player—opening the scoring in the 12th minute to ignite scenes of euphoria at the Parc des Princes viewing zone. Just minutes later, Doué added a second, finishing off a clinical team move to give the French champions a 2-0 lead inside 20 minutes.
Inter never recovered.
Doué struck again in the 63rd minute, making it 3-0 before Khvicha Kvaratskhelia joined the party with a composed finish 10 minutes later. Substitute Senny Mayulu rounded off the rout in the 87th minute, sealing the biggest winning margin ever recorded in a Champions League final.
Before kickoff, Inter fans proudly chanted “There’s Only Inter” in a sea of blue and black. But as the whistle blew, their team vanished from the contest, completely outclassed in every department by a relentless PSG side.
From start to finish, PSG controlled the tempo with fluid passing and constant movement. “This wasn’t just a win—it was a statement,” said a jubilant fan at the stadium. “We’ve waited so long for this, and now it’s ours.”
As captain Marquinhos lifted the coveted trophy into the London sky, there was no doubt: this was PSG’s night, and Europe has a new champion.
ICT Minister and Chikomba West MP Tatenda Mavetera last week turned her 39th birthday into a charitable occasion, handing out food hampers and launching a sustainability fund for vulnerable residents in her constituency.
However, the event has stirred criticism, with citizens and observers accusing the ruling ZANU PF party of fostering dependency rather than addressing Zimbabwe’s deep-rooted socioeconomic challenges.
“My heart is full after celebrating my birthday with the resilient souls of Chikomba West Constituency,” Mavetera wrote.
“We shared meals, provided food hampers, and launched a sustainability fund to empower people with disabilities.”
A total of 187 beneficiaries—including people with disabilities, widows, and child-headed families—received food packages as part of the birthday celebration. “Compassion isn’t just giving a hand, it’s building a future where everyone thrives,” Mavetera added.
“In this life, it’s difficult to make everyone happy, but I am happy to have done what I thought could bring a smile to someone.”
Mavetera framed her acts of charity as part of a broader commitment to public service: “To serve is a lifelong promise; to give is to plant seeds of hope that outlive us. For me, true joy lies not in what we receive, but in what we leave behind. I remain forever committed to uplifting lives, because service is the legacy that never fades.”
Yet while some praised her generosity, others questioned the political motives behind such events. Critics argue that this kind of one-off aid does little to solve long-term problems such as poverty, poor healthcare, unemployment, and lack of infrastructure in rural Zimbabwe.
“ZANU PF is deliberately creating a culture of dependency to maintain a firm grip on rural communities,” said a local civil society activist. “This is not empowerment. People want functioning hospitals, jobs, and reliable services—not handouts timed with birthdays and election cycles.”
Despite the celebratory tone of the event, the broader sentiment among many Zimbabweans remains one of frustration. With the country’s economy in a prolonged crisis, citizens are increasingly demanding sustainable solutions over symbolic gestures.
The flames of African music will rise higher than ever as Zimbabwe’s own sensational songstress Feli Nandi takes center stage at the MTN Bushfire Festival 2025, set for 30 May – 01 June in the beautiful kingdom of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland). 🌍🔥
Fe Mand tour
Now in its 18th edition, the MTN Bushfire Festival has earned its place as one of Africa’s most celebrated arts and music festivals — and this year, it’s turning up the heat with an electrifying lineup that includes the soulful and dynamic Feli Nandi. 🇿🇼✨
on tour… Fel Nand with team
Known for her rich vocals, emotional depth, and Afro-fusion flair, Feli has steadily risen to become one of Zimbabwe’s most powerful musical exports. Her presence at this globally acclaimed event is more than just a performance — it’s a cultural experience. Whether she’s serenading with “Munhu Wangu” or igniting the crowd with her empowering anthems, Feli brings a rare kind of fire to the stage.
The MTN Bushfire Festival is more than just music — it’s a celebration of unity, culture, and positive change. And Feli Nandi embodies all that and more. If you’re planning to be anywhere this June, make sure it’s Malkerns Valley in Eswatini, where the fire will be real, and the music even hotter. 🔥🎶
📍 Catch her live and let the flames of Afro-soul consume you. 🔗 More info: www.bush-fire.com
Zimbabwe is grappling with a sharp rise in disease outbreaks, with malaria, diarrhoea, and influenza leading the surge, according to the latest Weekly Disease Surveillance Report released on 29 May by the Ministry of Health and Child Care.
The report covers the week ending 18 May 2025 and paints a grim picture of the country’s current public health situation.
A total of 9,733 new malaria cases were recorded, resulting in 22 deaths nationwide. The most affected provinces were Mashonaland Central, which accounted for 4,172 cases, and Mashonaland West with 1,901 cases. Worryingly, 1,079 of these infections involved children under the age of five, highlighting the continued vulnerability of Zimbabwe’s youngest citizens.
The malaria-related deaths occurred at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital in Harare (6), Guruve District in Mashonaland Central (3), and Mutare and Chipinge districts in Manicaland (one each). Additional deaths were also reported in Mashonaland East, though the exact figure was not specified. Since the beginning of 2025, the country has recorded 82,940 malaria cases and 275 deaths.
The report also highlights a spike in common diarrhoea cases, with 4,309 new cases and four deaths in the same week. Children under five made up 38% of the new cases. All reported deaths occurred in Harare Province—three at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals and one at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital. The year-to-date tally stands at 138,458 diarrhoea cases and 62 deaths.
Influenza cases—often dismissed as the common cold—have also been rising steadily. The Ministry recorded 5,099 suspected influenza cases for the week, with no deaths reported. Mashonaland West (1,831 cases) and Manicaland (1,361 cases) were the worst affected. The national total for suspected influenza now sits at 90,248 cases this year.
The Midlands Province reported five new anthrax cases, two each from Gokwe North and South, and one in Kwekwe. While no deaths have been attributed to anthrax in 2025, the country has now logged 61 cumulative cases.
In addition, 19 new suspected measles cases were reported from various provinces, including Harare, Mashonaland East, Matabeleland North, Midlands, Mashonaland West, Manicaland, and Bulawayo. So far, no measles deaths have occurred this year, and the cumulative case count stands at 266.
Another lingering concern is the rising number of dog bite incidents, with 590 cases recorded during the week. Among these, 121 were from vaccinated dogs, 98 from unvaccinated dogs, and 379 from dogs of unknown vaccination status. The highest numbers were from Masvingo and Manicaland. Although no fatalities have been reported from dog bites, the total number of cases has climbed to 12,548 since the start of the year.
The Ministry’s data underscores the urgent need for reinforced public health responses and preventive measures, particularly in rural and underserved areas where the brunt of these outbreaks is being felt.
The installation of Chief Nyamandi in Gutu last week erupted into disarray as Zanu PF officials and senior civil servants found themselves at odds during what was supposed to be a formal and traditional ceremony. Instead of order and dignity, the event turned into a chaotic political spectacle.
The disruption began when Archbishop Isaac Masuka of the Zambuko Apostolic Church arrived unannounced in the middle of the proceedings, accompanied by a trumpet-blaring band that brought the programme to a sudden halt.
The dramatic entrance startled officials and threw the ceremony off course.
Frustrated civil servants said the incident highlighted a deeper problem—the increasing overlap between state responsibilities and ruling party activities. “This was supposed to be a Government-led traditional function,” one senior official said. “But everything about it felt like a political rally.”
From party slogans echoing across the venue to the prominence of Zanu PF regalia and protocol, observers noted the unmistakable tone of partisan control. Sources in Gutu say Lovemore Matuke, a senior Zanu PF official, contributed to the chaos by dominating the proceedings and, in his closing remarks, declaring Chief Nyamandi—born Togara Masunda—as “the newest Zanu PF foot soldier in Gutu Central Constituency.”
Even law enforcement at the event appeared to be answering to Zanu PF officials rather than government administrators, further reinforcing the perception that the occasion was more political than ceremonial.
“This is the danger of turning state functions into party platforms,” a civil servant lamented. “It erodes the authority of traditional leaders and blurs the lines between governance and party loyalty.”
The incident has sparked renewed concern over the politicisation of traditional institutions in Zimbabwe, particularly in rural areas where chiefs often find themselves entangled in partisan politics, sometimes at the expense of their independence and the communities they serve.
HARARE – A man in his 30s was mauled to death by a pitbull in the New Bluffhill area of Harare on Sunday, sparking outrage and renewed calls for stricter dog ownership laws.
According to Crime Watch Zimbabwe, the fatal attack occurred near a property where the aggressive dog had previously been reported for repeatedly jumping over a half-built durawall. Despite residents’ earlier concerns, no action was taken to restrain or contain the dog.
“The victim’s body is still lying a short distance from the wall,” Crime Watch Zimbabwe reported, adding that the dog had been seen roaming the street freely.
The tragic incident has prompted Harare West MP Joana Mamombe to call for immediate legislative action to address the threat posed by dangerous dog breeds.
“We have learnt, with sadness, of the death of a #HarareWest constituency resident after he was attacked by a pitbull dog that was roaming freely in the street,” Mamombe said in a public statement. “#MHSRIP. It’s time, as the legislature, that we pass breed-specific legislation which restricts and bans certain dog breeds.”
Residents in the New Bluffhill community have expressed shock and fear following the attack. One local, who asked not to be named, said: “We’ve been warning the authorities about this dog for months. It was only a matter of time before something like this happened.”
Calls are now mounting for the enforcement of tighter animal control regulations, especially concerning breeds known for aggressive behavior. While authorities have yet to confirm what action will be taken against the dog’s owner, pressure is growing for accountability and reform.
The victim’s identity had not yet been released at the time of publishing, pending notification of next of kin.
Chikomba West Member of Parliament and ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera has sparked controversy following her recent remarks on Zimbabwe’s ongoing health crisis.
While launching what she called the Presidential Emergency Medical Scheme, Mavetera made bold claims that the government under President Emmerson Mnangagwa is fixing the country’s crumbling healthcare system.
“A proud moment for Chikomba West Constituency yesterday on day 1 of the Presidential Emergency Medical Scheme. We got free doctor consultations and medication for our community. Yesterday we were in Wards 5 & 6 Manyene, Marondamashanu, Ward 7 Leleza, Ward 13 Chitsa,” Mavetera said in a statement released Saturday.
She added that over 100 residents were trained in life-saving first aid by Discovery Ambulances and TelOne Zimbabwe. “This program is immediate but our ultimate goal is building more hospitals & fully resourced facilities for lasting care.
In Chikomba West we have 7 health facilities under construction as we speak by the Ministry of Health and Child Care and Chikomba Rural District Council,” she claimed.
However, critics argue that these efforts, while welcome on the surface, are more about optics than real change. With Zimbabwe’s public hospitals routinely facing shortages of basic drugs, equipment, and personnel, skepticism remains about whether such mobile and temporary interventions can truly resolve the deeper structural collapse in the health sector.
“This is a distraction, a feel-good campaign meant to portray a false sense of hope to citizens,” said a local community leader who requested anonymity. “Yes, we welcome any form of help, but we are not blind to the timing and the motives behind these giveaways, especially when elections or political visits are near.”
The initiative has also been labeled by some as a form of political bribery, as villagers are reportedly being lured with free medication and training while broader systemic issues remain unresolved.
Despite the controversy, Mavetera expressed her gratitude: “Grateful for this progress,” she said, suggesting the program reflects genuine government commitment.
Yet, for many in rural Zimbabwe, where hospitals remain underfunded and healthcare workers underpaid, such statements may ring hollow.
The question remains whether this is the beginning of a serious transformation—or just another political campaign cloaked in charity.
The installation of Chief Nyamandi in Gutu last week erupted into disarray as Zanu PF officials and senior civil servants found themselves at odds during what was supposed to be a formal and traditional ceremony. Instead of order and dignity, the event turned into a chaotic political spectacle.
The disruption began when Archbishop Isaac Masuka of the Zambuko Apostolic Church arrived unannounced in the middle of the proceedings, accompanied by a trumpet-blaring band that brought the programme to a sudden halt.
The dramatic entrance startled officials and threw the ceremony off course.
Frustrated civil servants said the incident highlighted a deeper problem—the increasing overlap between state responsibilities and ruling party activities. “This was supposed to be a Government-led traditional function,” one senior official said. “But everything about it felt like a political rally.”
From party slogans echoing across the venue to the prominence of Zanu PF regalia and protocol, observers noted the unmistakable tone of partisan control. Sources in Gutu say Lovemore Matuke, a senior Zanu PF official, contributed to the chaos by dominating the proceedings and, in his closing remarks, declaring Chief Nyamandi—born Togara Masunda—as “the newest Zanu PF foot soldier in Gutu Central Constituency.”
Even law enforcement at the event appeared to be answering to Zanu PF officials rather than government administrators, further reinforcing the perception that the occasion was more political than ceremonial.
“This is the danger of turning state functions into party platforms,” a civil servant lamented. “It erodes the authority of traditional leaders and blurs the lines between governance and party loyalty.”
The incident has sparked renewed concern over the politicisation of traditional institutions in Zimbabwe, particularly in rural areas where chiefs often find themselves entangled in partisan politics, sometimes at the expense of their independence and the communities they serve.
By Collen Makumbirofa-Dear Brothers and Sisters, we invite you to join us in prayer for a critical need affecting Zimbabweans and other foreign nationals in South Africa. Let’s come together twice daily, at 6 am and 6 pm, wherever you are, to pray for:
1. Peace and calm in our communities 2. Compassion and understanding from South African authorities 3. Granting of permits to those who need them 4. An end to hatred, crime, and violence 5. Protection from harm and arrest
Let’s pray together:
“Lord Jesus, we come before you with humble hearts, acknowledging our imperfections. We are in South Africa seeking opportunities to work, improve our lives, and support our families back home. We are not here to cause harm or conflict, but we are caught in a difficult situation. Please intervene on our behalf. Fight for us, help us find compassion in the eyes of the authorities, and protect us from violence and arrests. We trust in your power to change our situation. Thank you, Lord. Amen.”
Join us in prayer, trusting that God will work in our favour. Let’s stand together in faith, rejecting crime and evil, and embracing what’s good. Favour from God is coming soon!
When: 6 am and 6 pm daily (or anytime if you miss the scheduled time) Duration: 3 minutes or more Where: Wherever you are
Let’s pray together for a brighter future.
We also kindly request that you prayerfully consider donating to support our farming initiative, which aims to produce fresh food and create jobs for the hopeless and distressed in Chegutu, Zimbabwe. In Johannesburg, South Africa, we also plan to start a food delivery business that will create jobs for 30 South Africans.
By Jacob Mutisi-An increasing number of African freedom fighters are passing away in foreign lands, far from the countries they once risked everything to liberate from colonial domination.
Men and women who fought valiantly for their independence now draw their last breaths in quiet corners of London, Paris, Washington and other former imperial capitals.
Many of their descendants no longer hold African passports, instead, they possess the citizenship of the very nations their forebears battled against. This contradiction raises the question! Were Africa’s liberation wars a betrayal, a fraud or merely a deferred dream?
This is no mere rhetorical flourish, it strikes deep at the heart of the African experience. Why did so many take up arms against colonialism only for their descendants to voluntarily return to the colonial powers, lured by the promise of a better life?
At the core of these lies an irony too painful to overlook. Africa’s liberation movements were characterised by unimaginable sacrifice and courage. Heroes emerged from the struggle figures like Ndabaningi Sithole, Samora Machel, Amílcar Cabral, Joshua Nkomo, Patrice Lumumba and Nelson Mandela, who inspired a continent to believe in freedom, dignity and self-governance.
However, independence has often given way to disillusionment. Corruption infiltrated the corridors of post-colonial power, with liberation movements transforming into ruling parties that frequently prioritised power over the populace. Nepotism supplanted meritocracy. Today, many African governments grapple with providing reliable services, upholding the rule of law and offering citizens genuine opportunities for economic and social advancement.
In the void created by these failures, foreign countries, particularly former colonial powers, have become attractive destinations for Africa’s disillusioned. They proffer better education, employment prospects, functioning institutions and, crucially, a sense of order and opportunity. The result has been a relentless outflow of talent and ambition.
According to a recent article by RFI, nearly 60% of African youth express a desire to emigrate, largely due to corruption. The 2024 African Youth Survey, conducted by the Ichikowitz Family Foundation, revealed that young people aged 18 to 24 across 16 countries cited corruption as their primary reason for wanting to leave.
This is not a repudiation of African culture or identity, rather, it is a powerful indictment of governance. Young people are not turning their backs on their ancestors, they are rejecting leaders who have failed to fulfil the promise of independence. For them, liberation has not ushered in liberty, nor has freedom guaranteed opportunity.
It is particularly telling that the children and grandchildren of liberation icons are among those who have departed. Many now reside in the West , in Britain, France, Canada or the United States. Some have carved out successful careers in politics, academia, business or the arts. Their lives, though often distinguished, are lived far from the rural villages, dusty townships or bustling African cities that their forebears once called home.
This is not merely a matter of personal choice, it reflects a calculated decision to dissociate from systems widely perceived as broken. For many, returning home is neither safe nor feasible, while for others, there is simply nothing left to return to.
One must ask: Did Africa win the war only to lose the peace?
Colonialism was never solely about flags and borders, it was a complex system of domination economic, psychological and cultural. While many African nations attained political independence, they inherited colonial-era structures of governance, law and economics that were rarely dismantled, merely repurposed.
Where change did occur, instability sometimes followed. Military coups, ethnic divisions, authoritarian rule and institutional collapse have plagued many newly independent nations. While some countries have made notable progress, far too many remain ensnared in cycles of corruption and mismanagement.
It is no surprise, then, that a generation raised in so-called “liberated” Africa feels compelled to seek their fortunes elsewhere.
Many members of the African diaspora harbour dreams of returning “home.” They vow to invest, retire and contribute to their homelands. Yet, the realities on the ground, from failing infrastructure to unpredictable governance, often render these dreams impractical. The spectre of red tape, insecurity and economic instability keeps many away. Over time, what was intended as temporary exile becomes permanent residence abroad.
The consequence? African graves in London cemeteries, wreaths laid in Ottawa and Paris. Men and women who once aspired to die beneath the African sun are buried in foreign soil, their legacies reduced to hyphenated identities and nostalgia for the diaspora.
My simple question, Were the Liberation Wars a Fraud?
To pose this question is to strike a nerve. However, the honest answer is NO, the wars themselves were not fraudulent. The cause was just. The sacrifices were real. The intentions were noble.
The betrayal came after independence, not from the struggle itself, but from those who inherited its victory. Those who prioritised personal gain over public service, who treated power as a right rather than a responsibility and who turned liberation into entitlement, betraying the very ideals for which they fought.
The wars were not a fraud, but they were, in many respects, unfinished.
Africa today is rich with promise. It is youthful, vibrant and resource-rich. Yet, that promise cannot be realised through mere slogans or nostalgia. The current brain drain is unsustainable. No continent can thrive if its brightest minds, trained and inspired, feel they must leave to live with dignity.
What is now required is a second liberation, not from foreign powers, but from within. A liberation from corruption, incompetence and stagnation. A renewal of the values that fuelled the first wave of independence.
Only then can Africa genuinely fulfil the dreams of its heroes. Only then will it be a land not just of memory, but of meaning a place where the descendants of freedom fighters can return, not in exile or mourning, but in triumph and peace.
Until that day arrives, the graves of our heroes will continue to be dug in foreign lands and their children will persist in seeking freedom in the shadows of former empires.
Time for our African leaders to wake up and change the liberation direction.
By Business Reporter-The Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency continues to struggle, despite assurances from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) that it is fully backed by reserves.
Introduced in April 2024 to stabilise the economy and replace the inflation-prone Zimbabwe dollar, ZiG has failed to inspire lasting confidence among businesses and ordinary citizens.
Since its launch, the ZiG has battled to gain traction, especially in the informal sector where the US dollar remains dominant.
While the RBZ claims the currency is now backed by reserves amounting to US$683 million, more than double the initial US$276 million, this has not translated into meaningful economic confidence or reduced inflationary pressure.
RBZ Governor Dr John Mushayavanhu insists the reserves, which include US$352 million in gold and US$258 million in cash and nostro balances, offer full cover for both ZiG in circulation and all ZiG-denominated deposits. “The Reserve Bank has achieved various milestones… including narrowing the gap between formal and parallel exchange rates,” he said in a recent interview with the state media.
However, these technical achievements have yet to address the underlying economic problems. The local economy continues to suffer from low productivity, weak investor confidence, and erratic policy direction. Without significant reforms to attract foreign direct investment (FDI), the ZiG remains a currency without strong economic foundations.
Analysts argue that the government’s strategy of enforcing demand for ZiG through tax obligations and the rollout of point-of-sale machines in the informal sector is not enough.
The government’s move to enforce payment of quarterly corporate taxes partly in ZiG has temporarily increased demand, but this artificial support is unlikely to last without deeper economic reforms. Inflation expectations remain high, and parallel market exchange rates continue to influence pricing across sectors.
To boost usage, the RBZ has announced plans to introduce higher denomination ZiG notes—up to ZiG200. But the rollout is slow and faces logistical challenges. Critics warn that printing higher denominations may signal rising inflation and could further undermine confidence.
The collapse of previous Zimbabwean currencies has left a deep scar in public memory. Many remain skeptical of any local unit not backed by real economic growth, institutional credibility, and investor-friendly policies.
Ultimately, ZiG’s sustainability hinges on more than just gold reserves. Until the government adopts sound macroeconomic policies, curbs corruption, respects property rights, and creates a climate conducive to FDI, any currency—no matter how well “backed”—is likely to face collapse.
MASVINGO – Celebrated traditional leader Chief Nemashakwe has died.
He was 108.
Born Claunos Devere Chirikure, Chief Nemashakwe passed away at Mvuma Hospital in Mashonaland Central on May 14, 2025. The educationist and traditional leader was laid to rest at Chirikure Village in Nemashakwe on May 18.
Chirikure’s death was confirmed by his eldest son, Chirikure Chirikure, a prominent author and poet, who said the late chief had lived a life of service, commitment, and humility.
Chief Nemashakwe is survived by his wife, Svodesai Chirikure, 7 children (4 boys and 3 girls), 22 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
Born in Mushayavanhu in Gutu, Chirikure came from humble beginnings. After losing his father at an early age, he worked as a herd boy to raise money for his school fees.
He began his education at Silveria Mission and completed Standard 6 in 1944. He later enrolled at Gokomere Government School in 1947 and qualified as a teacher at Waddilove in 1951.
Chirikure began his teaching career in 1945 and served in various schools including Chitsa Primary and Chamburuka before being transferred to Domborembizi in 1974 and later to Vhunjere.
His commitment to education saw him rise through the ranks until he retired in 1992.
At independence, Chirikure played a significant role in the local education sector by helping to found Vhunjere Primary and Nemashakwe Secondary School.
He was installed as Chief Nemashakwe in 2009 and became substantive chief in 2022.
He was of the Gumbo totem.
A devout family man and firm believer in education, Chief Nemashakwe married in 1960.
He raised his family while working to uplift his community through both education and traditional leadership. Known for his wisdom, humility, and discipline, he looked after 23 children including his seven biological children.
Chief Nemashakwe’s legacy is one of resilience, sacrifice, and community development.
He is fondly remembered for shaping the futures of many young people in Gutu and beyond through his long and impactful career in education.
Musician Jah Prayzah’s world tour has officially begun, drawing massive crowds and emotional reactions from fans abroad.
The lanky Afro-contemporary star recently wrapped up a show-stopping performance in the United Kingdom, where fans turned out in droves to sing along to his chart-topping hits.
In a heartfelt message shared on Thursday, Jah Prayzah expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming support he received in the UK.
“United Kingdom 🇬🇧 handina remuromo. Handizive kuti ndokutendai sei kunze kwekukuisai muminamato yangu,” he said. “Makaita basa nekuratidza rudo rwunoshamisa. Mwari vaise ruzhowa pamusoro pemhuri dzenyu nezvose zvamunobata.” (“United Kingdom, I am speechless. I don’t know how to thank you other than keeping you in my prayers. Thank you for showing such amazing love. May God cover your families and everything you touch.”)
Fans responded with messages of appreciation on social media, sharing videos from the concert and describing the experience as “electric” and “unforgettable.”
The tour now moves to continental Europe, with Germany set to host Jah Prayzah on 31 May. More dates and countries are expected to be announced as the artist continues to connect with his global fanbase through music that blends traditional Zimbabwean rhythms with modern flair.
As Jah Prayzah put it: “The World Tour has kicked off. Next stop: Germany.”
A police constable stationed at Malalume Police Base in Bulilima District, Matabeleland South, is at the centre of a gruesome murder investigation after a suspect’s mutilated remains were discovered buried in a pit latrine behind the local clinic.
Constable Blessed Moyo is accused of fatally assaulting a suspect earlier this year and attempting to cover up the crime by dismembering the body and dumping the remains in a toilet used by both clinic staff and police.
The grim discovery was made on 22 May, when a skull, bones, torn clothing, a pair of handcuffs, a bloodstained Okapi knife, and other forensic evidence were unearthed.
Police sources say the incident began in early February after a local resident, Melisa Ndlovu, reported a break-in at her home where food and clothing had been stolen. The suspect, a man believed to be from Binga and reportedly suffering from mental health issues, was caught by villagers and handed over to Constable Moyo.
“After he was arrested, the suspect was handcuffed and taken to the police base,” said one senior officer close to the investigation.
“Witnesses said Constable Moyo began beating him almost immediately, using a mopane switch, cooking stick, plastic pick handle, and a sjambok.”
Another police source added, “The man complained that he felt dizzy and begged for water. After the assault, Constable Moyo told the villagers he would arrange transport to Bulawayo. That was the last time the suspect was seen alive.”
The remains, buried in the toilet behind the clinic, were later confirmed to be those of the missing suspect.
Following his arrest, Constable Moyo appeared before Plumtree Magistrate Mark Dzira on 23 May. He was denied bail and remains in custody. His next court appearance is scheduled for Friday, 30 May. The State is being represented by prosecutor Arnold Mudekunye.
Police officials say investigations are ongoing and more arrests could follow if evidence links other individuals to the attempted cover-up.
“We are treating this matter with the utmost seriousness. No one is above the law, and we will ensure justice is served,” said a senior officer from the Matabeleland South Police Provincial Headquarters.
Imagine arriving in Zimbabwe’s second-largest city — Bulawayo — only to be swallowed by pitch blackness at every intersection.
The traffic lights are dead. The roads are a maze of confusion. Brakes screech, horns blare, and drivers wave frantically in the dark, trying to guess whose turn it is. There are no flashing ambers, no green guidance — just chaos.
This is not a power outage. This is deliberate. ZESA’s power utility arm, ZETDC, has switched off the city’s traffic lights as part of its hardline enforcement of prepaid electricity policies, plunging the once-orderly roads of Bulawayo into a living nightmare. With no warning and no visible plan for emergency response, motorists now enter a city where every crossing could be fatal — not from speed, but from silence, confusion, and total blackout.
Motorists in Bulawayo are navigating danger with every intersection as the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) has switched off multiple traffic lights across the city — a direct consequence of the power utility enforcing its prepaid electricity metering policy.
Several major intersections have gone dark in recent days, with no functioning traffic control systems in place, exposing commuters, pedestrians, and schoolchildren to heightened road safety risks. Affected hotspots include:
Nketa Drive and Luveve Road
Birkenhead and Plumtree Road
George Avenue and Gwanda Road
Siyephambili and Nketa Drive
ZETDC, a subsidiary of ZESA Holdings, has implemented the disconnections as part of its transition from postpaid to prepaid electricity systems, holding the Bulawayo City Council responsible for failing to load tokens on newly installed meters.
“The City of Bulawayo was made aware of the exercise in 2024 of converting traffic lights and street lights from conventional meters to prepaid metering,” said the city’s Corporate Communications Manager, Mrs Nesisa Mpofu. “However, the City does not have a programme of works or schedule of the areas where ZETDC is working on, to speedily attend to the registration and facilitate the electricity tokens.”
She added that each traffic light intersection requires approximately ZiG3 000 worth of electricity per month, a cost that now must be prepaid upfront by the municipality.
This development mirrors last year’s controversy when ZETDC switched off Bulawayo’s tower lights under similar circumstances. Then too, residents expressed outrage, claiming lives and property were being placed at risk due to poor coordination and sudden cut-offs. At the time, council officials complained of being blindsided, while ZETDC insisted that advance communication had been issued.
Now, as traffic lights fall victim to the same bureaucratic standoff, city drivers are left to interpret intersections without guidance — relying on guesswork and goodwill in a system built for order, not improvisation.
While ZETDC launched the national prepaid metering rollout in 2012 for domestic and commercial customers, the inclusion of critical infrastructure like traffic control systems has raised new alarms over governance, prioritization, and public safety.
Despite the dangerous implications, no emergency measures or manual traffic marshals have been deployed at the affected intersections, leaving residents to question whether public safety is being held ransom over a billing dispute.
As of this morning, no firm timeline has been given for the reactivation of the lights. The City of Bulawayo says it is waiting for ZETDC to submit invoices to enable the purchase of tokens and restoration of power.
Meanwhile, the city’s roads remain a perilous gamble — with every robot down, another accident inches closer.
$88 Million Bait-and-Switch: What Would You Ask Obey Chimuka About the Trabablas Interchange?
By Farai D Hove | ZimEye | | Harare | 30 May 2025
“Mr. Chimuka, where did the dream go?” That’s the first question many Zimbabweans would fire at Obey Chimuka — the man behind the now-controversial Trabablas Interchange — as the nation finally comes face-to-face with what was promised in 2021, and what was actually delivered in 2025.
The Trabablas promise and its deliveryHours
The billboard vision shared in public presentations and glossy architectural renders painted a picture of Zimbabwe’s entry into first-world infrastructure: a grand, multi-tiered, landscaped marvel of civil engineering, with seamless traffic flow, lush greenery, and global-standard signage. What has emerged instead is a dry, brittle, underconnected structure marred by patchy work, unmarked roads, wooden signage poles, and not even a single sign pointing toward Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, the country’s most critical economic hub.
The Man at the Centre: Obey Chimuka
Obey Chimuka, a politically connected businessman and frontman for Fossil Contracting, part of the TEFOMA consortium awarded the $88 million tender without public bidding, is now at the center of growing public outrage. With images now circulating comparing his 2021 digital proposal to the visibly incomplete 2025 reality, the social media verdict is swift: Chimuka over-promised and massively under-delivered.
From bold promises of a cutting-edge interchange to a visibly basic, unfinished slab of cement — the dissonance could not be more stark. Citizens are asking whether this was an intentional bait-and-switch or a catastrophic example of inflated costs and zero accountability.
Public Reaction: Mockery and Anger
On Friday morning, Twitter erupted with memes and outrage. One widely shared image captioned, “PROMISED THIS (2021) … DELIVERED THIS (2025)” showed Chimuka beaming beside the artist’s impression of the interchange, juxtaposed with the current state — a scattered, disjointed road system that lacks proper markings, signage, drainage, or even landscaping.
“It’s not even half of what was advertised,” said a civil engineer on condition of anonymity. “This is not an engineering masterpiece; it’s a rushed, compromised structure. At best, it’s serviceable. At worst, it’s an $88 million case study in political fraud.”
Accountability or Impunity?
The most haunting element in the public’s mind is that no official audit has yet been published, and no performance penalty appears to exist for failing to meet such a clearly advertised standard.
In Parliament last week, Senator Sengezo Tshabangu put it bluntly:
“What makes our road construction so expensive in the region, yet we use the same material?”
Minister of Transport Felix Mhona gave no technical defense, instead pointing to sanctions — a response many lawmakers called “evasive and irrelevant.”
The Bigger Picture: Public Trust Eroding
The Trabablas Interchange fiasco is not merely about aesthetics — it’s about a national breach of trust. • Where are the promised quality checks? • Where is the landscaping that was part of the original model? • Why are international best practices being ignored in favor of speed and political optics? • Who benefited from the $88 million?
The Question That Won’t Go Away
So if you were face-to-face with Obey Chimuka today, what would you say?
Perhaps the most fitting question is this:
“Sir, if this is what $88 million looks like under your watch — how much would a proper interchange actually cost?”
And more critically:
“What does this say about Zimbabwe’s future when the present is built on such deception?”
⸻
As the ribbon is cut and officials celebrate, the nation remains unconvinced. The people are not asking for miracles — just delivery that matches the promise. For now, the Trabablas Interchange stands as a concrete monument to what Zimbabwe could have been, but never quite becomes.- ZimEye
Liverpool FC have officially confirmed the signing of Dutch international Jeremie Frimpong from Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen, marking a major move in the club’s summer transfer window.
The dynamic right-back joins the Reds as a direct replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold, who completed a high-profile switch to Spanish giants Real Madrid earlier this week.
Frimpong was instrumental in Bayer Leverkusen’s historic season under Xabi Alonso, contributing with both goals and assists from the wing-back position.
His explosive pace, attacking flair, and defensive discipline have earned him a reputation as one of Europe’s most exciting full-backs.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot, overseeing his first major signing since taking charge, expressed confidence in Frimpong’s ability to fit into the team’s evolving tactical setup.
By Parliamentary Reporter– A Member of Parliament was shot with a pellet gun and brutally assaulted last week in the car park of a Harare hotel after being accused of having an affair with a married woman.
The dramatic incident unfolded when Wilson Makondesa (38), a manager at a local panel-beating company, confronted the legislator while he was speaking to Rejoice Govera (37), Makondesa’s estranged wife.
The name of the legislator has not been released. Sources say the attack was sparked by suspicions that he was romantically involved with Govera, who separated from Makondesa in February 2024.
According to Govera, Makondesa has been stalking her ever since she left their matrimonial home, using a vehicle tracking device to monitor her movements. She claims he has been living with another woman since their separation, yet continues to harass her, violating a peace order that was granted by the courts.
“Wilson has never accepted our separation,” said Govera. “He tracks my car, follows me, and assumes every man I speak to is my lover. I’ve had to move houses multiple times to escape his abuse.”
She recounted the events of the hotel incident: “Last week, he followed me to a hotel after tracking my vehicle. I was talking to the MP in the car park when he arrived, pulled out a pellet gun, fired at him, and then physically assaulted him. He didn’t even stop to ask what was going on.”
Govera described her marriage to Makondesa as rushed and regrettable.
“I lost peace the day I married him,” she said. “After the end of my first marriage, I was vulnerable. Wilson had also divorced and quickly paid lobola within two weeks of dating me. I now believe it was a cover-up for his abusive behaviour. This marriage has been a nightmare.”
Makondesa admitted to confronting and assaulting the MP.
“I tracked the car and went to the hotel,” he said. “Security told me she had left the vehicle with someone, and when they returned, I approached. I didn’t find them in a compromising position, but I was jealous and suspected the worst. I got closer intending to record them, but Rejoice spotted me. I blocked their car and physically confronted the man. I won’t lie — I beat him up zvakasimba (severely).”
He added: “Rejoice and I are legally married, even though we no longer live together. We’ve had differences that led her to move out, but I still consider her my wife.”
The incident has since sparked concern over the safety and privacy of public officials and raised fresh questions about intimate partner violence and stalking.
Police are yet to confirm whether formal charges have been laid.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has released the names of four individuals who died in a tragic road traffic accident that occurred along the Chegutu–Chinhoyi Road on May 29, 2025.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the ZRP confirmed that the crash took place at around 2 PM near the 44-kilometre peg close to Uzande Business Centre. The fatal collision involved a Toyota Probox, which was carrying seven passengers, and a Toyota Lexus with two occupants.
The police revealed that four people died on the scene, while five others sustained varying degrees of injuries and were rushed to Chinhoyi Hospital for treatment. The bodies of the deceased were also transported to the same hospital for post-mortem examinations.
The victims have since been identified by their next of kin as:
Micah Phiri (51) of C521 DRC, Chegutu
Dadirai Nyamaka (45) of Rio Tinto, Kadoma
Munyukwi Jeremiah, of 5787 White City, Chinhoyi
Isaac Tizora (62) of 2465 Chegutu
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges motorists to exercise extreme caution and refrain from overtaking when it is unsafe to do so,” the statement read. “Reckless driving continues to cost innocent lives on our roads.”
The ZRP expressed condolences to the bereaved families and reaffirmed its commitment to road safety enforcement.
By A Correspondent– Respected educationist and traditional leader Chief Nemashakwe, born Claunos Devere Chirikure, has died at the age of 108. A towering figure in both education and traditional leadership, Chief Nemashakwe passed away at Mvuma Hospital in Mashonaland Central on May 14, 2025, and was laid to rest at Chirikure Village in Nemashakwe on May 18.
Chirikure’s death was confirmed by his eldest son, Chirikure Chirikure, a prominent author and poet, who said the late chief had lived a life of service, commitment, and humility. Chief Nemashakwe is survived by his wife Swodesai Chinikure, 7 children (4 boys and 3 girls), 22 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
Born in Mushayavanhu in Gutu, Chirikure came from humble beginnings. After losing his father at an early age, he worked as a herd boy to raise money for his school fees. He began his education at Silveria Mission and completed Standard 6 in 1944. He later enrolled at Gokomere Government School in 1947 and qualified as a teacher at Waddilove in 1951.
Chirikure began his teaching career in 1945 and served in various schools including Chitsa Primary and Chamburuka before being transferred to Domborembizi in 1974 and later to Vhunjere. His commitment to education saw him rise through the ranks until he retired in 1992.
At independence, Chirikure played a significant role in the local education sector by helping to found Vhunjere Primary and Nemashakwe Secondary School. He was installed as Chief Nemashakwe in 2009 and became substantive chief in 2022. He was of the Gumbo totem.
A devout family man and firm believer in education, Chief Nemashakwe married in 1960. He raised his family while working to uplift his community through both education and traditional leadership. Known for his wisdom, humility, and discipline, he looked after 23 children including his seven biological children.
Chief Nemashakwe’s legacy is one of resilience, sacrifice, and community development. He is fondly remembered for shaping the futures of many young people in Gutu and beyond through his long and impactful career in education.
Traditional leader Chief Munyikwa, known in government records as Kirioni Rashamira, has come under fire for allegedly obstructing opposition political activity ahead of a key by-election scheduled for June 14.
Opposition candidates accuse the chief, who is closely aligned with the ruling Zanu-PF party, of using his influence to deny them access to communities under his jurisdiction in Munyikwa area.
Independent candidate Gift Gonese, a former CCC (Citizens Coalition for Change) representative in the 2023 harmonised elections, says efforts to campaign in the area have been systematically sabotaged by the traditional leadership.
“Yes, it’s true—we’re being blocked,” Gonese said.
“Chief Munyikwa has instructed village heads to prevent us from holding rallies or community meetings. Even attempts to install Wi-Fi to facilitate communication have been stopped. This undermines any chance of free, fair, and credible elections.”
Gonese also revealed ongoing intimidation tactics allegedly employed by local authorities.
“Our village heads are compiling lists of known opposition supporters,” he said. “People are being warned that if Zanu-PF loses, there will be consequences. That kind of fear-mongering has no place in a democratic society.”
Chief Munyikwa has openly declared his allegiance to Zanu-PF, with sources saying he has told local leaders that “he is a Zanu-PF chief and will defend the gains of the liberation struggle.”
His aide reinforced that position when contacted for comment, stating: “It is our duty to protect and safeguard our sovereignty. We will not work with counter-revolutionary elements.”
However, legal experts and watchdogs have reminded traditional leaders that their role is constitutionally non-partisan. Section 281 of the Zimbabwean Constitution specifically bars traditional authorities from engaging in party politics or using their positions to influence electoral outcomes.
Critics say the chief’s actions are not just unconstitutional but indicative of broader challenges facing opposition parties in rural areas, where political control is often maintained through traditional power structures.
As the by-election approaches, civil society groups are calling for urgent intervention from the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission and Parliament to ensure that all candidates can campaign freely and without intimidation.
Aspiring Gutu East legislator Gift Gonese has rolled out free Starlink Wi-Fi hotspots across the constituency in a bid to improve digital access for students, nurses, and rural communities in one of Zimbabwe’s most underserved regions.
The initiative, which targets business centres, schools, and health facilities, is designed to tackle the long-standing challenge of internet inaccessibility due to high mobile data costs and poor connectivity infrastructure.
“We’ve set up Wi-Fi zones at key points like Basera, Chin’ai, Mataruse, and Chinyika,” Gonese said. “We’re currently expanding to high schools so that learners can easily access educational content and online resources.”
According to Gonese, the response has been overwhelming, especially from high school and tertiary students who are now flocking to these areas to take advantage of the free connection.
“Students are walking long distances—from places like Rineshanga—just to get online and work on school projects. This shows how badly this kind of support was needed,” he noted.
He added that university and college students on holiday are among the biggest beneficiaries, with many using the service to conduct academic research and work on dissertations.
But the impact goes beyond the classroom. Civil servants, including nurses and teachers, now enjoy steady access to internet services without having to spend on mobile data bundles.
“We’ve had feedback from health workers at Chimombe Hospital and officers at Basera Police Station who say the Wi-Fi has helped improve communication and access to critical information,” Gonese said. “This isn’t just about schoolchildren. It’s about empowering the whole community.”
The initiative is being hailed as a game-changer in rural digital transformation, with Gonese emphasizing that universal connectivity is essential for development.
“This is about giving people the tools to thrive in a modern economy,” he explained. “Access to the internet shouldn’t be a luxury—it should be a right.”
As the June 14 2025 by-election approaches, Gonese’s tech-driven campaign is setting a new tone in rural constituencies, where digital infrastructure is often overlooked.
A police constable stationed at Malalume Police Base in Bulilima District, Matabeleland South, is at the centre of a gruesome murder investigation after a suspect’s mutilated remains were discovered buried in a pit latrine behind the local clinic.
Constable Blessed Moyo is accused of fatally assaulting a suspect earlier this year and attempting to cover up the crime by dismembering the body and dumping the remains in a toilet used by both clinic staff and police.
The grim discovery was made on 22 May, when a skull, bones, torn clothing, a pair of handcuffs, a bloodstained Okapi knife, and other forensic evidence were unearthed.
The suspect, a man believed to be from Binga and reportedly suffering from mental health issues, was caught by villagers and handed over to Constable Moyo.
“After he was arrested, the suspect was handcuffed and taken to the police base,” said one senior officer close to the investigation.
“Witnesses said Constable Moyo began beating him almost immediately, using a mopane switch, cooking stick, plastic pick handle, and a sjambok.”
Another police source added, “The man complained that he felt dizzy and begged for water. After the assault, Constable Moyo told the villagers he would arrange transport to Bulawayo. That was the last time the suspect was seen alive.”
The remains, buried in the toilet behind the clinic, were later confirmed to be those of the missing suspect.
Following his arrest, Constable Moyo appeared before Plumtree Magistrate Mark Dzira on 23 May. He was denied bail and remains in custody. His next court appearance is scheduled for Friday, 30 May.
The State is being represented by prosecutor Arnold Mudekunye.
Police officers say investigations are ongoing and more arrests could follow if evidence links other individuals to the attempted cover-up.
“We are treating this matter with the utmost seriousness. No one is above the law, and we will ensure justice is served,” police said.
Traditional leader Chief Munyikwa, known in government records as Kirioni Rashamira, has come under fire for allegedly obstructing opposition political activity ahead of a key by-election scheduled for June 14.
Opposition candidates accuse the chief, who is closely aligned with the ruling Zanu-PF party, of using his influence to deny them access to communities under his jurisdiction in Munyikwa area.
Independent candidate Gift Gonese, a former CCC (Citizens Coalition for Change) representative in the 2023 harmonised elections, says efforts to campaign in the area have been systematically sabotaged by the traditional leadership.
“Yes, it’s true—we’re being blocked,” Gonese said.
“Chief Munyikwa has instructed village heads to prevent us from holding rallies or community meetings. Even attempts to install Wi-Fi to facilitate communication have been stopped. This undermines any chance of free, fair, and credible elections.”
Gonese also revealed ongoing intimidation tactics allegedly employed by local authorities.
“Our village heads are compiling lists of known opposition supporters,” he said. “People are being warned that if Zanu-PF loses, there will be consequences. That kind of fear-mongering has no place in a democratic society.”
Chief Munyikwa has openly declared his allegiance to Zanu-PF, with sources saying he has told local leaders that “he is a Zanu-PF chief and will defend the gains of the liberation struggle.”
His aide reinforced that position when contacted for comment, stating: “It is our duty to protect and safeguard our sovereignty. We will not work with counter-revolutionary elements.”
However, legal experts and watchdogs have reminded traditional leaders that their role is constitutionally non-partisan. Section 281 of the Zimbabwean Constitution specifically bars traditional authorities from engaging in party politics or using their positions to influence electoral outcomes.
Critics say the chief’s actions are not just unconstitutional but indicative of broader challenges facing opposition parties in rural areas, where political control is often maintained through traditional power structures.
As the by-election approaches, civil society groups are calling for urgent intervention from the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission and Parliament to ensure that all candidates can campaign freely and without intimidation.
By A Correspondent- Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash of a fighter jet that occurred on Friday, 30 May 2025.
The accident killed Squadron Leader (Retired) Ritswanetsi Vuyo Ncube .
In a statement, ZDF spokesperson Colonel Alphios Makotore said the accident involved an Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) F-7 fighter aircraft, which went down during a routine sortie in the Wazheri area along the Gweru-Mvuma Road.
“A dark cloud has engulfed the Zimbabwe Defence Forces family after an Air Force of Zimbabwe F-7 fighter aircraft crashed in the Wazheri general area,” read the statement.
Squadron Leader Ncube, who was piloting the aircraft, was killed in the crash. The Air Force veteran had returned from retirement to continue serving, this time training young fighter pilots at Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base.
Ncube was widely respected for his flying expertise and unwavering commitment to the nation.
Following the incident, Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, General Philip Valerio Sibanda, issued a heartfelt condolence message:
“The Zimbabwe Defence Forces have learnt, with heavy hearts, of the passing of a proficient and highly experienced pilot, Squadron Leader Ncube. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. I extend my deepest condolences to his loved ones for this painful loss.”
An official investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the crash.
Mystery Illness Ends in Tragedy: Nine Month-Old Baby with “Old Face” Dies After Surgery at Sally Mugabe Hospital
Mutasa, Zimbabwe – 31 May 2025
A heartbreaking tragedy has struck the Chinyanga family of Watsomba, Mutasa District, after their nine-month-old baby boy — known for his bizarre, prematurely aged facial features — died just two days after undergoing surgery at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital in Harare.
The late child (pic)
Baby Japhet Junior Chinyanga, whose condition had puzzled both medical professionals and traditional healers, passed away last Thursday following an operation to correct a diaphragmatic hernia, a rare and life-threatening congenital disorder. He was buried on Sunday in an emotionally charged funeral attended by relatives and villagers gripped by grief and lingering questions.
His father, Japhet Chinyanga, confirmed that although the operation appeared successful at first, the child later died due to internal complications that hospital staff were unable to resolve in time.
“Doctors told me that his lungs were filled with blood, and they were about to drain it when he passed away,” Chinyanga told reporters, his voice breaking.
“I asked them how the blood got there, but they said they did not know either.”
The family had fought for months to understand the child’s deteriorating health after noticing his face taking on an unusually aged appearance — a condition that some community members even attributed to spiritual causes.
“I used to look at my son and wonder where my baby had gone. It was like he was wearing a mask of pain,” said the grieving father.
Doctors at Sally Mugabe Hospital eventually diagnosed the infant with a diaphragmatic hernia, explaining that a portion of his intestines had moved into his chest cavity, crowding his heart and lungs. After weeks on oxygen support and several delays due to financial constraints, surgery was finally performed.
But what was meant to be a turning point for the family turned into their worst nightmare.
According to both parents, doctors acknowledged after the surgery that they had detected fluid in the baby’s lungs, believed to be blood, but were unable to drain it in time to save him.
“I told him to fight,” sobbed the child’s mother, Rutendo Nyamutata-Chinyanga.
“I carried him for nine months and watched him suffer for another nine. Even when people mocked us, I still had hope. Now I am empty.”
Community members, shaken by the boy’s short and painful life, gathered in large numbers in Mutasa for his funeral. Many expressed dismay not only at the outcome but also at the mystery that had shrouded his condition since birth.
The tragic case highlights the challenges many Zimbabwean families face in accessing timely and effective pediatric care — especially when dealing with rare conditions requiring specialist intervention and expensive diagnostics.
As the Chinyanga family mourns their irreplaceable loss, their story has ignited calls for greater transparency and urgency in medical procedures involving children, and for improved government support for families navigating complex health crises.
The Ministry of Health has not yet issued a formal statement on the matter.
By Showbiz Reporter-Two women, Tanaka Mafukidze (24) and Prudent Chipo Musimike (25), appeared before the Harare Magistrates’ Court facing charges of malicious damage to property following a fire that destroyed the belongings of popular musician Trevor Dongo.
The incident took place on 21 March 2025 at Lombard Mansions in Harare, in a flat owned by Rosemary Danda.
According to court documents, Danda was alerted by her brother that her property was on fire. Upon arrival, she reportedly found the flat engulfed in flames, with two women—allegedly under the influence of alcohol—at the scene.
Investigations revealed that the flat was being rented by Dongo, who had earlier invited his girlfriend, Mafukidze (Accused 1), over. Mafukidze arrived with her friend, Musimike (Accused 2), after the two had gone out for lunch together.
A dispute reportedly erupted between Dongo and Mafukidze regarding Musimike’s presence. Dongo then left the flat briefly to collect a friend, leaving the two women behind.
While he was away, an argument allegedly broke out between the two women. The situation escalated, culminating in a fire whose cause—intentional or accidental—is still under investigation by the court.
When Dongo returned, he discovered the flat in flames. The total value of the destroyed property has been estimated at US$21,178.
Both women were remanded in custody. Their trial is scheduled to commence on 11 June 2025.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has since urged the public to resolve personal disputes peacefully and seek mediation, warning against actions that could result in harm or property loss.
By A Correspondent- A senior Air Force of Zimbabwe officer, Squadron Leader (retired) Ritswanetsi Vuyo Ncube, has died following the crash of an F-7 fighter jet on Friday, May 30.
According to a statement released by ZDF spokesperson Colonel Alphios Makotore, the incident occurred in the Wazheri area along the Gweru-Mvuma Road during a routine training mission. “A dark cloud has engulfed the Zimbabwe Defence Forces family,” said Makotore. “An Air Force of Zimbabwe F-7 fighter aircraft crashed in the Wazheri general area… As a result of the crash, the pilot, Squadron Leader (retired) Ritswanetsi Vuyo Ncube, lost his life.”
Squadron Leader Ncube, a veteran pilot who had returned from retirement to continue serving in the Air Force, was actively involved in the training of young fighter pilots at Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base. His passion for aviation and unwavering commitment to national duty had earned him deep respect within the ranks.
In a heartfelt tribute, Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, General Philip Valerio Sibanda, described the late pilot as “a proficient and highly experienced pilot.” He added, “The Zimbabwe Defence Forces have learnt, with heavy hearts, of the passing on of Squadron Leader Ncube… Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased pilot. I want to extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased for this sad loss.”
Authorities have since launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
In a major legal blow to President Donald Trump’s economic agenda, a U.S. federal court has ruled that he lacked the authority to unilaterally impose tariffs on other countries without the approval of Congress.
The ruling, issued by the Court of International Trade in Manhattan, stated that under the U.S. Constitution, only Congress has the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations, and that this authority is not overridden by presidential powers related to safeguarding the U.S. economy.
“The Constitution is clear—Congress controls the purse strings and foreign trade. The executive branch cannot sidestep this by claiming emergency powers,” the court noted in its decision.
The court also blocked a separate set of levies imposed on China, Mexico, and Canada, which were introduced as part of his administration’s strategy to combat what it described as the “unacceptable flow of drugs and illegal immigrants” into the United States.
The Trump administration responded swiftly, filing an appeal within minutes of the ruling, signaling its intent to continue fighting for broader executive trade powers.
However, the court made a distinction between these general tariffs and others imposed on specific goods such as cars, steel, and aluminium. These were not affected by the ruling, as they fall under a different legal framework granting the president limited authority in certain trade matters.
The decision reignites the debate over executive overreach and the balance of power between the branches of government, particularly in the realm of international commerce. Legal analysts say the ruling could have long-term implications on how future administrations approach trade disputes.
As the legal battle continues, the case may ultimately land before the U.S. Supreme Court, setting the stage for a constitutional showdown over trade authority in the years to come.
A 25-year-old man from Beitbridge, identified as Hardlife Nyathi, has landed himself in jail after being convicted of stock theft involving two donkeys.
The case was heard at the Beitbridge Magistrates’ Court, where Nyathi was sentenced for stealing the animals from a fellow villager.
According to court proceedings, the incident occurred in April 2025 when the complainant, Reason Moyo (50), from Makawa Village under Chief Sitaudze in Tongwe, left his two male donkeys grazing unattended. Nyathi, a resident of Tshabili Village under Chief Matibe, allegedly took the donkeys unnoticed.
When Moyo discovered his donkeys were missing, he immediately reported the incident to his headman, who in turn informed the local anti-stock theft committee. Following investigations, the committee found Nyathi in possession of the animals in the first week of May 2025. The discovery led to his arrest and subsequent prosecution.
The court sentenced Nyathi to 24 months in prison, with 8 months suspended for 5 years. A further 6 months were suspended on the condition that he restitutes the stolen donkeys to the rightful owner. As a result, Nyathi will serve 10 months of effective imprisonment.
Authorities have reiterated the importance of safeguarding livestock and working closely with local committees to curb such crimes. This case serves as a reminder that stock theft remains a serious offense with real consequences.
The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) has announced the tragic death of Squadron Leader (retired) Ritswanetsi Vuyo Ncube following the crash of an Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) F-7 fighter jet on Friday, May 30.
According to a statement released by ZDF spokesperson Colonel Alphios Makotore, the incident occurred in the Wazheri area along the Gweru-Mvuma Road during a routine training mission. “A dark cloud has engulfed the Zimbabwe Defence Forces family,” said Makotore. “An Air Force of Zimbabwe F-7 fighter aircraft crashed in the Wazheri general area… As a result of the crash, the pilot, Squadron Leader (retired) Ritswanetsi Vuyo Ncube, lost his life.”
Squadron Leader Ncube, a veteran pilot who had returned from retirement to continue serving in the Air Force, was actively involved in the training of young fighter pilots at Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base. His passion for aviation and unwavering commitment to national duty had earned him deep respect within the ranks.
In a heartfelt tribute, Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, General Philip Valerio Sibanda, described the late pilot as “a proficient and highly experienced pilot.” He added, “The Zimbabwe Defence Forces have learnt, with heavy hearts, of the passing on of Squadron Leader Ncube… Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased pilot. I want to extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased for this sad loss.”
Authorities have since launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
By Sports Reporter-Zimbabwean footballer and former Soccer Star of the Year, Kudakwashe Mahachi, is embroiled in a dramatic courtroom battle with his ex-wife, Marita Ndlovu, over the paternity of one of their children—a case that has quickly escalated into a fierce legal confrontation.
Tensions flared when Mahachi’s lawyer issued a stern warning in court, stating that if DNA results prove Mahachi is not the biological father, Marita could face criminal charges for allegedly providing false information.
“Providing false information to the court is a serious criminal offence,” the lawyer declared. “If the DNA test shows Mahachi is not the father, we will not hesitate to pursue charges of perjury and misrepresentation.”
But Marita was quick to hit back. She told the court that if the DNA results confirm Mahachi as the father, she would seek compensation for defamation of character, accusing him of tarnishing her name and putting their children through public humiliation.
“This is about more than just money,” Marita told the magistrate. “It’s about my dignity and the well-being of my children. If he is indeed the father, I deserve justice for the falsehoods he has spread about me.”
The magistrate ordered a DNA test to conclusively determine the child’s paternity and directed Mahachi to cover the cost of the procedure.
What began as a maintenance dispute has now transformed into a high-stakes battle over truth, trust, and personal honour. With both sides standing their ground, the case has gripped public attention.
The magistrate is expected to make a formal ruling soon, but the DNA results may ultimately decide the fate of this family dispute.
Wangu Mazodze FC has announced its intention to withdraw from the Eastern Region Division One League, citing what it calls “victimization” by league authorities.
The Masvingo-based club made the declaration in an official statement, expressing dissatisfaction with disciplinary action taken against them, including charges and fines for allegedly inciting crowd trouble during matches.
In a strongly worded ultimatum to the league’s board, the club demanded that the charges be rescinded by June 2, 2025, or they would follow through with their decision to pull out of the competition.
“In the event that reason does not prevail, the budget allocated for the 2025 football season will be redirected to promote social football in our communities,” read the statement.
The club also revealed that they had already engaged the Executive Committee Chairman in an attempt to resolve the matter.
“We have engaged the Executive Committee Chairman, and if the baseless charges are not withdrawn by the close of business on June 2, 2025, we will automatically withdraw from the Pacific Storm Eastern Region Soccer League without further notice,” the statement concluded.
By A Correspondent The case of Zimbabwean activist Wellington Masiwa, popularly known as Nyokayemabhunu, was postponed to June 10 following a court appearance in South Africa on Friday.
Masiwa’s legal team indicated that both the defence and the state presented their heads of argument, prompting the magistrate to adjourn the matter.
“It was okay. I argued for the heads of arguments. The state presented their heads of arguments as well. The case was adjourned to 10 June,” said a member of Masiwa’s legal team.
The lawyer revealed that further consultations with Masiwa were necessary, particularly concerning personal matters, but the state pushed back against the defence’s application.
“I needed to consult with Mr. Masiwa. I needed to ask him questions over his first wife, and the children. The state refused to accept the application… they said there has to be new evidence,” the lawyer explained. “Yes, I do accept they are receiving new evidence, but I still confirmed completing the new application itself. I still proceeded, I still raised my defence and I just hope that the magistrate makes a very informed decision — in terms of the Constitution, in terms of dignity, freedom, and his rights. I really hope that the magistrate passes this decision.”
According to the defence, the magistrate appeared emotionally affected at some point during the proceedings.
“The issue is this man has been locked up for about 47 days. He has a right to freedom; he has a right to see his family. He’s a human being,” the lawyer argued passionately. “This is why I argued like that. This is why I argued that he should have gotten his freedom. He shouldn’t be locked up in a foreign country. I have raised these points. I believe that he should be with his family while awaiting trial.”
The defence is now awaiting the magistrate’s ruling on the matter, which is expected to take into account the constitutional rights and humanitarian concerns raised during the hearing.
Real Madrid C. F. and Liverpool FC have reached an agreement to sign Trent Alexander-Arnold for the next six seasons, from 1 June 2025 to 30 June 2031.
The 26-year-old England international joins the club after winning nine trophies with Liverpool: Champions League (1), Club World Cup (1), Uefa Super Cup (1), Premier League (2), FA Cup (1), League Cup (2), and Community Shield (1).
Alexander-Arnold, who has spent his entire playing career at Liverpool, has been a full international since 2018 with England, playing in two World Cups (2018 and 2022) and one European Championship (2024).
On an individual level, he has been included once in the FIFA FIFPro World XI (2020), twice in the UEFA Champions League team of the season (2018/19 and 2021/22) and three times in the Premier League dream team (2018/19, 2019/20 and 2021/22). He was also voted the best young player of the Premier League 2019/20.
Alexander-Arnold will be playing for Real Madrid in the Club World Cup, which will be held in the United States from 14 June.
A Masvingo man is recovering in hospital after he was brutally assaulted, robbed, and abandoned near the Chevron Hotel late last night. The victim, who was reportedly intoxicated after a night out at a club in the Central Business District (CBD), was discovered unconscious early this morning.
After regaining consciousness, the man managed to make his way to Masvingo Central Police Station, where authorities referred him to Masvingo Provincial Hospital for treatment.
This latest attack comes amid growing concern over a surge in violent crimes in the city. Less than a week ago, Mike Bhungeni, a student at Masvingo Polytechnic, was fatally stabbed by armed robbers near Ndarama High School. Just hours after that fatal incident, another individual was stabbed at the same location and is currently fighting for his life at Masvingo Provincial Hospital.
The recent spate of violence has sparked fear among residents, with calls for increased police patrols and heightened security measures in crime-prone areas. Source : Masvingo Mirror
A drunk Masvingo man was severely assaulted, robbed and left for dead near Chevron Hotel last night whilst coming from a club in the CBD. The man regained consciousness this morning and was taken to Masvingo Central Police Station where he was referred to Masvingo Provincial… pic.twitter.com/2KnBzXkMuq
— The Mirror Masvingo (@TheMirrorMsv) May 30, 2025
MISA Regional Secretariat Director, Dr Tabani Moyo Snr , has been appointed as member of the African Union (AU) Working Group on Artificial Intelligence.
“We accept the responsibility thrust upon our shoulders with humility and honour in service of the peoples of Africa and the diaspora. This is a recognition of the work we have done at MISA Regional Office, the chapters and networks that we serve in different capacities,” said Dr Moyo
“We are grateful for the depth and cordial working relationship we have with the Ministry of ICT (Information Communication Technology), Postal and Courier Services in Zimbabwe. Through our strategic partnership and engagements, our expertise has been spotlighted.”
He expressed gratitude to MISA’s symbiotic relationships with the African Union Commission (AUC), the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and UNESCO, particularly the Regional Office for Southern Africa (UNESCO-ROSA), and the organisation’s entire stakeholder chain.
HARARE – The Bankers Association of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has issued a stark warning about the devastating effects of private cash hoarding, accusing the country’s wealthiest individuals of undermining the national economy by keeping billions of dollars outside the formal financial system.
In a scathing critique of Zimbabwe’s shadow banking culture, Sibongile Moyo, the newly appointed BAZ president and managing director of Nedbank Zimbabwe, painted a grim picture of how a few cash-rich individuals have become “de facto banks”, hoarding funds in vaults, safes, and even under mattresses.
“A lot of money is circulating outside the formal banking system. I think individuals have almost become like banks themselves—probably holding more money than what we hold in the banks,” Moyo said. “That money is effectively not working for the economy because it’s sitting outside the formal channel—we can’t use it to lend.”
The impact is massive. Zimbabwe’s entire formal banking sector holds just US$3.3 billion in deposits, a figure dwarfed by the suspected volume of unbanked wealth. Of that US$3.3 billion:
US$1.9 billion (58%) is already committed to loans,
30% is locked in statutory reserves and regulatory requirements,
leaving just 12% available for everyday banking operations, including interbank settlements and liquidity needs.
“So look, the entire market only has US$3.3 billion of deposits, which is a very small pool from which to lend,” Moyo emphasized. “We are already lending most of it, and what remains cannot support meaningful growth or economic transformation.”
According to Moyo, the core of the issue lies not only in hoarding but also in the structure of deposits, which are mostly short-term and volatile.
“There is no capacity to lend long-term because more than 70% of deposits are current accounts—people who want their money the next day. You can’t transform that into long-term assets,” she said.
Adding to the challenge, Zimbabwe’s capital and bond markets are shallow, forcing banks to act as the sole intermediaries of long-term finance, despite being “ill-equipped” for such a role.
With limited local funding options, the banking sector has resorted to external lines of credit to try and bridge the gap. But this is neither sustainable nor ideal, especially for an economy already facing credibility challenges in the global financial market.
BAZ is now calling for urgent policy measures to incentivize formal banking, restore trust, and address the root causes of hoarding—chief among them being economic uncertainty, lack of confidence in the financial system, and regulatory loopholes that allow hoarders to operate with impunity.
Outspoken Zanu PF official Killer Zivhu has stirred fresh controversy after publicly showering praise on Wicknell Chivayo, describing the embattled businessman as a “charismatic and influential figure” with strategic value far beyond Zimbabwe’s borders.
In a statement issued Wednesday, Zivhu — no stranger to provocative political commentary — defended Chivayo’s growing public profile, despite widespread criticism over his extravagant spending and opaque business dealings.
“Let’s face it, Wicknell is a master planner with influence across Africa, Asia, and parts of Europe,” said Zivhu.
“The Zimbabwean government seeks his expertise, and many African nations highly regard him. His endorsement carries weight in international deal-making.”
Chivayo, known for his controversial government tenders and flashy philanthropy, has divided public opinion in recent months. While some praise his donations to public figures and institutions, others question the source and transparency of his wealth.
Zivhu, however, was unapologetic in his admiration, calling Chivayo a vital asset to Zimbabwe’s diplomatic and business interests.
His comments come amid growing scrutiny over how state contracts are awarded and the rising power of politically connected businessmen.
In the same statement, Zivhu also reaffirmed his allegiance to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, asserting that ED remains the only viable leader for Zimbabwe’s foreseeable future.
“ED is the only capable person to continue as president. For the time being, we don’t have any other candidate until 2035,” Zivhu declared. “Chamisa has chances only if he joins ZANU-PF and replaces ED by 2035. This is a reality that pains many people, but they can’t do anything about it.”
The remarks are likely to provoke political backlash, especially as opposition leader Nelson Chamisa continues to gain support from Zimbabwe’s youth and urban electorate. Zivhu’s suggestion that Chamisa would need to join ZANU-PF to ever become president highlights the entrenched political dominance of the ruling party — and the limited avenues for electoral change in the current landscape.
Both Chivayo and Zivhu remain lightning rods for controversy, frequently trending on social media and dominating public discourse. This latest endorsement has once again brought to the fore questions about power, money, and the future of leadership in Zimbabwe.
By Dorrothy Moyo | ZimEye | Zimbabwean musician Chipochashe Muchegwa has expressed overwhelming joy after police in Norton successfully arrested one of the suspects who stole her mobile phones and wheelchair charger.
Taking to social media, Chipo announced:
“HEY GUYS MURISEI I COME HERE WITH GREAT JOY TO TELL U THAT MBAVHA YAKABA MA PHONE AND MY WHEELCHAIR CHARGER YAKAWANIKWA YAKABATWA.”
She revealed that her belongings were recovered following a coordinated operation by officers at ZRP Norton Urban Police Station. The suspects, identified as Mashak Chalmers and Nyasha Chibwe, allegedly stole her phones and essential charger. Chalmers has since been arrested while Chibwe remains at large but is being pursued.
Chipo detailed how the Officer in Charge at Norton Urban assigned Assistant Chief Inspector Jowa, who then tasked Inspector Masadza, Sergeant Musipe, Sergeant Gururwa, Constable Ncube, and Constable Chirongwe to the case.
“MA OFFICERS AYA VAKASHANDA NDATI SIKU NESIKATI PANGA PASINGARARWE NDATI,” she wrote, commending the tireless and passionate effort of the officers involved.
The musician, known for her powerful voice and advocacy, praised the police’s professionalism and called for this level of commitment to be extended to all citizens facing crime.
“Dai ndaikwanisa kuvatenda handizive kuti ndaivatenda nei mapurisa aya chido chavo nebasa chakanyanyisa. Ahoy Norton Urban Police 👏👏👏,” she wrote in a heartfelt tribute.
The case has been brought before the Norton Magistrates Court. Police continue their search for the second suspect, and further updates are expected.
BUHERA – A 20-year-old man from Pfupi Village, under Chief Chamutsa in Buhera, has been arrested for the alleged murder of his mother, in a chilling incident linked to suspected mental illness brought on by drug and substance abuse.
The incident occurred on Monday at around 11:30 AM, when Fadzai Mhuka reportedly stabbed his 55-year-old mother, Daina Mhlanga, multiple times while she was having breakfast with her nine-year-old nephew, Kelvin Mhuka.
According to Manicaland provincial police, Mhuka is believed to be suffering from severe mental health issues, allegedly as a result of prolonged drug use.
“Mhuka is facing mental health challenges allegedly caused by drug and substance abuse,” said the ZRP.
“Circumstances are that Mhlanga was having breakfast with her nephew when Mhuka entered the dining room singing the lyrics ‘Banga iro’ (That knife). He then took a knife from a kitchen unit and pointed it at his mother’s chest.”
Realizing the imminent danger, the young nephew fled the house in fear and alerted neighbours.
Three concerned neighbours rushed to the scene and called out to Mhlanga, but there was no response. One of them peered through a window and was met with a horrific sight—Mhlanga lying in a pool of blood.
The neighbours immediately contacted a local police constabulary, who rushed the victim to Birchenough Bridge Hospital. Unfortunately, Mhlanga was pronounced dead upon arrival. Medical staff confirmed she had suffered two deep stab wounds—one on the left breast and another under the right breast. A third wound was found on her left forefinger.
Police have since taken Mhuka into custody, and investigations are ongoing. The case has reignited calls for urgent intervention in communities grappling with drug abuse and mental health crises, particularly among youth.
Authorities have urged families and communities to report erratic behaviour early and to seek medical or psychiatric help before tragedy strikes.
The suspect is expected to appear in court soon, pending mental evaluation.
Zanu PF official Killer Zivhu has sparked public outrage after controversially urging opposition leader Nelson Chamisa to join the ruling party if he ever hopes to become Zimbabwe’s president.
In a statement released Wednesday, Zivhu also heaped praise on embattled businessman Wicknell Chivayo, hailing him as a figure of continental influence.
Zivhu defended Chivayo’s much-criticised public profile, saying “Wicknell is a master planner with influence across Africa, Asia, and parts of Europe. The Zimbabwean government seeks his expertise, and many African nations highly regard him. His endorsement carries weight in international deal-making.”
Despite Chivayo’s frequent criticism over opaque government contracts and a flashy lifestyle, Zivhu brushed aside the concerns, suggesting Chivayo’s influence is an asset to Zimbabwe’s interests. He insisted that people are missing the bigger picture when it comes to Chivayo’s strategic importance, especially in international relations and deal brokering.
Zivhu also used the opportunity to reaffirm his loyalty to President Emmerson Mnangagwa and declared him the only viable leader for Zimbabwe for the foreseeable future. “ED is the only capable person to continue as president. For the time being, we don’t have any other candidate until 2035. Chamisa has chances only if he joins ZANU-PF and replaces ED by 2035. This is a reality that pains many people, but they can’t do anything about it.”
The remarks have drawn widespread condemnation, with critics accusing Zivhu of undermining democratic principles and perpetuating the idea of one-party dominance. His suggestion that Chamisa would need to defect to Zanu PF to ever assume the presidency was viewed as dismissive of Zimbabwe’s multiparty system and electoral processes.
Social media quickly lit up with backlash, with many users calling Zivhu’s statements arrogant and reflective of a political system that discourages competition and thrives on cronyism.
Observers say Zivhu’s comments speak to the broader issues plaguing Zimbabwe’s political culture, where loyalty to the ruling party often outweighs public mandate. They argue his remarks are not just about Chamisa, but a deeper commentary on how political power remains locked within a tightly controlled circle.
As controversy continues to swirl around both Zivhu and Chivayo, the public debate over political inclusivity, elite privilege, and democratic renewal in Zimbabwe is once again under the spotlight.
Controversial Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Secretary General Sengezo Tshabangu has stirred political tension once again by calling for the postponement of Zimbabwe’s 2028 general elections, advocating instead for a government of national unity (GNU) between the ruling Zanu PF and the CCC.
In a recent statement, Tshabangu claimed structured dialogue between the two parties could be a path towards national healing and economic recovery, reigniting debate over Zimbabwe’s democratic trajectory.
“We are continuing to lobby, through Parliament, that the country enters into serious structured dialogue to confront its challenges,” Tshabangu said.
He argued that the political environment needed stability and cooperation rather than adversarial campaigning, warning that the usual electoral cycle might deepen divisions rather than solve them.
“In our era, we advocate for a politics of dialogue that prioritizes the well-being of Zimbabwe,” he said. “I’d also like to confirm that we’ve reached an agreement with our MPs that will facilitate the continuation of Parliament beyond 2028, which aims at promoting stable development.”
Tshabangu’s call has sparked heated reactions across the political spectrum, with critics accusing him of undermining the constitution and democratic processes. The proposal to delay elections and extend the life of Parliament has been described by opposition figures and analysts as a power-retention scheme that could set a dangerous precedent.
Nonetheless, some Zanu PF lawmakers appear receptive to the idea of national dialogue. They have expressed willingness to back a CCC motion in Parliament aimed at initiating talks between the main political parties to resolve Zimbabwe’s long-standing economic and governance issues.
The idea of a GNU is not new to Zimbabwe. A similar arrangement was put in place in 2009 between Zanu PF and the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) following disputed elections, which briefly stabilized the economy and political scene.
Tshabangu’s latest remarks, however, come amid sharp criticism of his leadership within the CCC, with many party loyalists viewing his overtures to Zanu PF as betrayal. His continued influence within Parliament has become a source of friction, especially after he controversially recalled dozens of opposition MPs last year.
While calls for national dialogue may sound noble in tone, the proposed delay of the 2028 elections raises critical constitutional concerns and questions about the future of democracy in Zimbabwe. As discussions unfold in Parliament, the nation watches closely to see whether dialogue will indeed deliver unity—or deepen political fractures.
By A Correspondent-The Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) is under renewed fire for failing to pay pensions to nearly 400 workers it retrenched a decade ago, amid claims of political victimisation and neglect.
In July 2015, following the Supreme Court’s Zuva Petroleum ruling that allowed employers to terminate contracts with three months’ notice, ZBC laid off hundreds of employees.
Many of the retrenched workers claim they were targeted for perceived political dissent, union activism, or resisting editorial capture by ruling party loyalists.
One former employee has written a heartfelt open letter to ZBC board chair Helliate Rushwaya, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s niece, pleading for long-overdue pensions to be paid. “Ten years later, we are still waiting,” he wrote. “Many of us have died in poverty, while the corporation pretends all is normal.”
The broadcaster, once home to independent-minded journalists, has long been accused of using retrenchments and transfers to silence dissent and enforce editorial loyalty.
Despite promises made in 2016 by senior ZBC officials that benefits would be settled, most workers received nothing.
With the government now forcing all motorists to pay ZBC licence fees, workers hope the broadcaster will finally meet its obligations. “We appeal to Ms. Rushwaya to act urgently.
ZBC cannot continue broadcasting on the back of betrayed workers,” the former employee added.
The only senior official to show concern was former board chair Dr. Josaya Tai, who facilitated partial payments to a few.
The rest remain in limbo.
Critics say ZBC’s financial woes stem not only from mismanagement but also from a culture of political interference, which prioritises propaganda over professionalism, at the cost of both workers and viewers.
Controversial businessman and ZANU PF-linked tenderpreneur Wicknell Chivayo has stirred public outrage following a dismissive outburst directed at critics of his high-profile donations, including a recent gift to veteran ZBC news anchor Reuben Barwe.
Chivayo, who has made headlines for gifting luxury vehicles and large sums of money to public figures and celebrities, took to social media on Thursday to hit back at those questioning the motives behind his so-called philanthropic gestures.
In a post dripping with sarcasm and condescension, Chivayo defended his gift of a brand-new car and an undisclosed amount of cash to Barwe, describing the media figure as a national icon.
“THIS MAN IS LARGER THAN LIFE,” Chivayo wrote, referring to Barwe. He then turned his attention to his critics: “…iwe woshora 🙆♂️🙆♂️🙆♂️ Va Makandiwa vakambo paridza vachiti KANA USINA MARI = NYARARA…” (Translation: “…and yet you criticize 🙆♂️🙆♂️🙆♂️ Prophet Makandiwa once preached that IF YOU HAVE NO MONEY = KEEP QUIET…”).
The remarks, perceived by many as an insult to ordinary Zimbabweans struggling with economic hardship, quickly drew backlash on social media. Critics accused Chivayo of flaunting his wealth in a country where the majority live below the poverty line and where basic services are often out of reach for many.
“This is not philanthropy; it’s arrogance dressed in generosity,” one user commented. “Insulting people for being broke while handing out cars to elites is not compassion—it’s contempt.”
Chivayo has in the past courted controversy over the origins of his wealth, much of which is allegedly tied to government tenders and opaque business dealings. His tendency to mix donations with political messaging has raised questions about whether his generosity is driven by genuine benevolence or a desire to boost his public image and political influence.
Despite the criticism, Chivayo remains unapologetic. “I give because I can. If you’re broke, just keep quiet and watch,” he wrote in a follow-up post.
As Zimbabweans continue to grapple with inflation, unemployment, and a stagnant economy, Chivayo’s comments have become a flashpoint in the national conversation about wealth, privilege, and the growing gap between the political elite and the everyday citizen.
By A Correspondent-The government has extended its condolences to the families of 16 people who lost their lives in two separate road accidents that occurred on 26 and 27 May 2025.
On 26 May, four people were killed when a bus collided with a tractor at the 34-kilometre peg along the Masvingo-Mbalabala Road.
The following day, 12 more lives were tragically lost in a three-vehicle pile-up at the 200-kilometre peg along the Harare-Bulawayo Road.
Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona expressed sorrow over the incidents, saying: “We mourn the loss of the men and women who perished in these crashes. Our thoughts are with the bereaved families, and our prayers are with those injured as they continue to receive treatment and care. We wish them a speedy recovery.”
Mhona said the two tragedies serve as a stark reminder for transport operators, motorists, and the public to adhere to road traffic regulations and exercise caution at all times. He added: “It is deeply concerning to note that one of the vehicles involved was overloaded with passengers—a clear and dangerous violation of our road traffic laws.
I want to remind and warn all transport operators, drivers, and members of the public that the Ministry will implement strict measures to ensure the safety and security of the commuting public.”
Authorities are continuing investigations into both crashes.
By A Correspondent| The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has arrested Safuli Zhoya, a Grain Marketing Board (GMB) Aspindale Depot Supply Chain Manager on allegations of Criminal Abuse of Duty as a Public Officer.
He allegedly illegally sold 599 bags of Compound D Superfert fertiliser at USD1.00 per bag, to Madamara Investments (Pvt) Ltd, falsely indicating the fertiliser had been written off.
Zhoya allegedly instructed Moleen Nyakudanga, a GMB Aspindale Depot clerk, to issue a receipt to Madamara Investments (Pvt) Ltd, indicating the fertiliser had been written off.
Following a USD $600 deposit into a GMB bank account, Zhoya advised that the fertiliser be collected from the GMB Mt Hampden depot.
The alleged scheme was exposed when the buyer went to collect the fertiliser at the GMB Mt Hampden depot, where Madeline Nyere, the Depot Supply Chain Manager, queried the transaction and initiated an investigation.
Investigations revealed that the fertiliser was in good condition and had no supporting Stock Disposal Certificates to classify it as written off.
Furthermore, no documentation supported the USD600.00 sale, a process that requires multiple procedures and the involvement of many other officials to determine pricing and write off authorisation.
It also emerged that the fertiliser was not intended for sale but was meant for an exchange programme with farmers for grain.
Zhoya was arrested on 28 May 2025 and appeared before Mr Marehwanazvo Gofa at the Harare Magistrates Court yesterday, 29 May 2025.
He was remanded to 24 June 2025 on USD200.00 bail for trail date setting.
By Religion Reporter- Divine Kingdom Baptist Ministries leader, prophet Ian Ndlovu, is “demanding” US$8,000 from his followers to resolve a land title dispute, just weeks after receiving lavish gifts worth over US$200,000 from controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo.
Addressing his congregants, Ndlovu said the money is required to process the transfer of a one-hectare plot in Newton West, earmarked for the construction of a church building.
The land was reportedly consolidated from two separate plots, but the title deed has not yet been registered in the church’s name.
“So I’m appearing before you to appeal to those who have a willing heart to contribute,” Ndlovu said. “The rough calculation that was made by our lawyers is that we need approximately US$8,000 to complete the title transfer process.”
He added that the cost could rise due to fluctuating charges at the tax revenue office and the Registrar of Deeds.
The church’s lawyers allegedly warned that once construction begins, the land’s value will increase, potentially making the transfer process more expensive.
Ironically, Ndlovu’s plea comes shortly after he received a brand-new 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser, a Toyota Fortuner for his wife, and US$150,000 in cash from Chivayo—ostensibly as a reward for his spiritual guidance.
The prophet’s appeal for donations has therefore drawn sharp criticism, with many accusing him of exploiting the faith of his followers for personal enrichment.
A Pattern of Exploitation in the Prophetic Movement
Ndlovu is not the first self-styled prophet to come under fire for financial manipulation and conspicuous consumption.
In Zimbabwe and across the region, several popular prophets have built fortunes through “seed sowing” doctrines, selling miracle solutions, and demanding tithes that disproportionately burden poor congregants.
Prophet Uebert Angel, founder of Spirit Embassy and Zimbabwe’s Presidential Envoy, has been widely accused of operating elaborate get-rich-quick schemes disguised as prophetic teachings. In 2023, he was implicated in ZimEye’s Al Jazeera’s Gold Mafia investigation, which exposed a network of money laundering and gold smuggling allegedly involving church figures and state officials.
Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa, leader of the United Family International Church (UFIC), is known for preaching prosperity and encouraging congregants to give sacrificially to unlock “breakthroughs.” Critics have accused him of turning religion into a business empire, with luxury cars, mansions, and tightly controlled media visibility marking his brand.
Walter Magaya, founder of Prophetic Healing and Deliverance Ministries (PHD), has faced numerous controversies, including unfulfilled promises of healing and prosperity. He has been accused of selling fake anointing oils, promoting unverified herbal remedies, and exploiting women in his congregation.
Despite mounting evidence of manipulation and wealth hoarding, these prophets continue to draw thousands to their churches, aided by slick marketing, emotionally charged sermons, and claims of supernatural power.
Call for Accountability
The culture of unquestioning loyalty and financial exploitation in Zimbabwe’s prophetic movement has prompted calls for greater accountability and regulation. Faith-based organisations and civil society groups have urged government and religious councils to investigate the financial practices of churches and ensure congregants are not being taken advantage of.
Businessman, Vhurumu Mutero, who on Tuesday was convicted of theft of trust property involving US$125,000, which was intended for the purchase of a truck and various household items, has been sentenced to 48 months imprisonment.
Mutero will effectively spend 12 months in jail after magistrate Rufaro Panavanhu suspended 12 months on condition of good behavior and another 24 months on condition that he pays US$125 000 restitution to the complainant by August 2025.
The court heard that between February and July last year, the complainant, Staffmark Private Limited represented by Trevor Mwanandimayi, enlisted Mutero to acquire a Toyota single cab truck and an extensive array of household goods and gave him the money.
The items reportedly included four double-door refrigerators, four 65-inch television sets, a washing machine, four sets of leather sofas, three dining table sets, four deep freezers, seven bed sets, office sofas, outdoor chairs, three tables, and eleven room dividers for offices.
According to the charges, instead of fulfilling his obligations, Mutero allegedly converted the funds to his own use.
By Jane Mlambo| ZACC confirms the arrest of Edmore Chitowa, Managing Director of Epvet Investments, on allegations of fraud and forgery.
The charges stem from a 2023 Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) tender for the supply and installation of rooftop air conditioning units at Hwange Power Station.
Investigations revealed that Chitowa submitted a forged NSSA clearance certificate as part of the bid documents, resulting in Epvet Investments being awarded the tender.
In February 2025, Chitowa also allegedly presented a a fake ZIMRA notice of seizure, claiming six air conditioning units had been seized at Beitbridge Border Post. Investigations found that only two units were listed on the official seizure notice.
The accused appeared before before Marehwanazvo Gofa at Harare Magistrate Court and was remanded to 8 July 2025 on USD400.00 bail.
By Religion Reporter- Self-proclaimed prophet Ian Ndlovu, leader of Divine Kingdom Baptist Ministries, has sparked outrage after appealing to his followers for US$8,000 to resolve a land title dispute, just weeks after receiving lavish gifts worth over US$200,000 from controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo.
Addressing his congregants, Ndlovu said the money is required to process the transfer of a one-hectare plot in Newton West, earmarked for the construction of a church building. The land was reportedly consolidated from two separate plots, but the title deed has not yet been registered in the church’s name.
“So I’m appearing before you to appeal to those who have a willing heart to contribute,” Ndlovu said. “The rough calculation that was made by our lawyers is that we need approximately US$8,000 to complete the title transfer process.”
He added that the cost could rise due to fluctuating charges at the tax revenue office and the Registrar of Deeds. The church’s lawyers allegedly warned that once construction begins, the land’s value will increase, potentially making the transfer process more expensive.
Ironically, Ndlovu’s plea comes shortly after he received a brand-new 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser, a Toyota Fortuner for his wife, and US$150,000 in cash from Chivayo—ostensibly as a reward for his spiritual guidance. The prophet’s appeal for donations has therefore drawn sharp criticism, with many accusing him of exploiting the faith of his followers for personal enrichment.
A Pattern of Exploitation in the Prophetic Movement
Ndlovu is not the first self-styled prophet to come under fire for financial manipulation and conspicuous consumption. In Zimbabwe and across the region, several popular prophets have built fortunes through “seed sowing” doctrines, selling miracle solutions, and demanding tithes that disproportionately burden poor congregants.
Prophet Uebert Angel, founder of Spirit Embassy and Zimbabwe’s Presidential Envoy, has been widely accused of operating elaborate get-rich-quick schemes disguised as prophetic teachings. In 2023, he was implicated in ZimEye’s Al Jazeera’s Gold Mafia investigation, which exposed a network of money laundering and gold smuggling allegedly involving church figures and state officials.
Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa, leader of the United Family International Church (UFIC), is known for preaching prosperity and encouraging congregants to give sacrificially to unlock “breakthroughs.” Critics have accused him of turning religion into a business empire, with luxury cars, mansions, and tightly controlled media visibility marking his brand.
Walter Magaya, founder of Prophetic Healing and Deliverance Ministries (PHD), has faced numerous controversies, including unfulfilled promises of healing and prosperity. He has been accused of selling fake anointing oils, promoting unverified herbal remedies, and exploiting women in his congregation.
Despite mounting evidence of manipulation and wealth hoarding, these prophets continue to draw thousands to their churches, aided by slick marketing, emotionally charged sermons, and claims of supernatural power.
Call for Accountability
The culture of unquestioning loyalty and financial exploitation in Zimbabwe’s prophetic movement has prompted calls for greater accountability and regulation. Faith-based organisations and civil society groups have urged government and religious councils to investigate the financial practices of churches and ensure congregants are not being taken advantage of.
By A Correspondent- Three people are feared dead following a head-on collision near Uzande Business Centre along the Chinhoyi-Chegutu Highway.
The Business Centre is also near Murombedzi Growth Point ( Kutama), the rural home of the late President Robert Mugabe.
The fatal crash involved a Toyota Probox and a Lexus.
The driver of the Lexus allegedly encroached into the lane of the oncoming Probox. Villagers helped retrieve the injured, and they were reportedly taken to Chinhoyi Provincial Hospital.
According to Mr Emmerson Chitehwe, an eyewitness, the driver of the Lexus attempted to overtake another vehicle, resulting in the collision.
The number of injured people is yet to be established.
It was meant to be a national triumph — a symbol of Zimbabwe’s bold leap into modern infrastructure. But just hours before President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s grand commissioning of the $88 million Trabablas Interchange, reality paints a far bleaker picture: no white lane markings, unconnected bridges, and gaping dead-ends that speak louder than any ribbon-cutting speech ever could. VIDEO LOADING BELOW
The irony is staggering. After nearly three years of delays and ballooning costs, Zimbabwe’s most expensive interchange is being launched unfinished, unsafe, and visibly dysfunctional. A drone’s-eye view shows not a marvel of engineering, but a multimillion-dollar maze of confusion — where roads rise only to stop, bridges lead to nowhere, and the very paint that guides traffic is conspicuously missing.
In a country desperate for progress, Trabablas is not a victory — it is a $2,000 oversight in an $88 million scandal.
By Dorrothy Moyo | ZimEye | 30 May 2025 | Harare
As President Emmerson Mnangagwa prepares to officially commission the long-delayed Trabablas Interchange in Harare on Friday, motorists and taxpayers are left asking a jarring question: Why is there no road paint on an $88 million project?
The newly built multi-lane flyover—spanning the intersection of Simon Mazorodze, Chitungwiza, and High Glen roads—still lacks the most basic safety requirement: clearly marked white lane lines. Not only does this pose a critical traffic hazard, but it has also become the latest flashpoint in Zimbabwe’s growing outrage over public funds and infrastructure mismanagement.
Two Years Late and Still Incomplete
Originally announced in October 2021, Transport Minister Felix Mhona declared that construction would begin “in earnest” by December that year and would take one year to complete. Instead, it was only by September 18, 2022 that the Mbudzi roundabout was closed and actual work commenced.
Mhona’s revised promise of a 24-month completion target—March 2024—was also missed. The commissioning now arrives more than two years later, with unfinished road markings, raising the uncomfortable question: What exactly has $88 million paid for?
Paint Costs Peanuts, So Why Isn’t It There?
Industry experts estimate that road marking paint for a project of this size would cost no more than US$2,000, including labour. So why are the lane lines missing?
“This is a question of either gross incompetence or deliberate neglect,” said a former roads engineer speaking anonymously. “For a project this costly, the absence of white lines shows that something is seriously wrong. Either the money was misallocated, or the project was rushed for political optics.”
Ballooning Budget and No Tender
Initially budgeted at US$65 million by the South African consultancy DNMZ, the cost ballooned after the Zimbabwean government handed the project to Tefoma, a consortium comprising Tensor Systems, Fossil Contracting, and Masimba Construction—without public tender.
The consortium added US$23 million to the bill, claiming the extra funds would cover detour roads, compensation for displaced residents, and professional fees.
But critics remain unconvinced. “We still don’t know the real cost. The government has not released an audited breakdown,” said one member of Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee. “Yet what we do know is that, at $88 million, this project is more expensive than Mount Edgecombe Interchange in South Africa, which is the largest in the southern hemisphere and cost $77 million.”
Parliament Raises the Alarm
In the Senate last week, Matabeleland North Senator Sengezo Tshabangu pressed Minister Mhona for answers.
“The figures that we have show the interchange was quoted around $88 million,” Tshabangu said. “Let us look at the difference in costs. What makes our roads so expensive compared to regional peers?”
Mhona blamed Zimbabwe’s unique economic situation and “illegal sanctions,” even suggesting differences in cement prices as justification—answers many senators found unconvincing.
“Trabablas” and the Optics of Power
The government has named the interchange after President Mnangagwa’s wartime pseudonym, “Trabablas”, as a tribute to his liberation struggle. But critics say the naming is little more than self-glorification atop a financial black hole.
“Zimbabweans are not angry that the interchange was built,” one commuter told our reporter. “They’re angry that after $88 million, it still doesn’t have paint, it still uses wooden poles for signs, and it took twice the promised time to deliver. This isn’t transformation—it’s theft in broad daylight.”
As Mnangagwa cuts the ribbon, Zimbabweans won’t just be looking at the bridge. They’ll be staring down the white lines that aren’t there—and asking: if $2,000 worth of paint is missing, what else was stolen?
CHEGUTU – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the deaths of four individuals following a tragic incident linked to illegal mining activities at Pickstone Mine in Chegutu.
According to the police, the incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday when a group of approximately 30 illegal miners carried out an unauthorised blast that led to the collapse of an open pit.
“The incident occurred after an unauthorised blast by a group of about 30 illegal miners caused the collapse of an open pit during the early hours of Tuesday,” police said in a statement on Wednesday.
The blast reportedly destabilised the structure of the mine, trapping five miners under the rubble. One person was rescued alive by the mine’s emergency response team.
Mine owners, Dallaglio Investments, also confirmed the incident in a separate statement and expressed condolences to the families of the deceased.
“We can confirm that five individuals were caught in the collapse. One was rescued by our emergency response team while, sadly, four others could not be saved,” the company said.
Dallaglio further emphasized that the operation was conducted without any authorization or safety protocols in place. “These were illegal operations conducted without the knowledge or oversight of mine authorities. We urge the public to avoid engaging in such dangerous and unlawful activities,” the company added.
Police said investigations are ongoing, and warned individuals against engaging in illegal mining, which continues to pose serious risks to life and property.
“We are calling on all citizens to desist from illegal mining. It not only endangers the lives of those involved but also undermines national efforts toward safe and sustainable mining practices,” said the ZRP.
The bodies of the deceased have been taken to Chegutu District Hospital for post-mortem, and authorities say efforts are being made to identify the victims and notify their families.
A Zambian man has caused a stir both online and within his community after allegedly demolishing a house he had built for his in-laws — all in the wake of a painful divorce.
According to The Zambian Observer, the man had been married for 10 years before his wife ended the marriage and left him for another man. In a move that has drawn both outrage and admiration, the man reportedly took matters into his own hands by tearing down the home he had generously built for his wife’s parents during their marriage.
Sources close to the situation say the man had poured considerable time, money, and effort into constructing the house as a gesture of goodwill and family unity. But once the relationship ended, he allegedly decided that such generosity should no longer stand — especially now that a new “son-in-law” has entered the picture.
“The message is clear: let the new man build his own house for them,” one social media commenter noted, echoing a sentiment shared by many observers who see the man’s actions as both bold and justified.
The incident, which reportedly occurred somewhere in Zambia, has left the public divided — with some condemning the destruction as petty and vindictive, while others have praised the man’s decision as a powerful statement about boundaries and respect.
So far, the man’s former wife and her family have not released a public response, and it remains uncertain whether any legal action will be taken. Local authorities have launched an investigation into the matter, looking into property rights and the possible legal implications of the demolition.
As the story continues to unfold, it has sparked a broader conversation across the region about love, loss, and how far one should go in the name of heartbreak.
By A Correspondent | ZimEye | Court hears Mpofu and Chimombe only supplied 3 000 goats instead of 600 000, their price for each goat ranged between US$175 and US$250
Former Agriculture ministry Permanent Secretary John Basera, Thursday took it to the stand to testify against businessmen Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu.
The two are accused of swindling government of US$7,9 million thriugh their companh Blackdeck after they secured a tender to supply 600 000 goats under the Presidential Goat Scheme.
The state alleges that the company was nonexistent and Basera said they were not aware that forged documents had been used.
Basera told High Court judge Justice Pisirayi Kwenda that the two only managed to supply less than 3 000 goats adding that initially the price for each goat was between US$175 and US$250.
“As the accounting officer going with principle of value for money I realised that US$7 million for 600 000 goats was exorbitant. Together with multiple team we discussed that even if the Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe ( Praz) had made these recommendations it was not okay.
“I suggested that we had a meeting g to discuss the price of each goatbecause their price range was ranging between US$175 and US$250.
“We engaged the supplier and reduced the prices to US$75 and US$95 per goat depending on the breed and we agreed to proceed with the deal.”
Basera also told court that Praz had approved Blackdeck in the bidding process.
He said all official documents were signed by Mpofu while Tinashe Chimombe witnessed.
He said Mike Chimombe did not sign any official documents.
“We got a no objection letter from Praz and we signed a contract with the lowest bidder, Blackdeck.
The tender evaluation committee also stated that the company had met all the requirements,” he added.
Blackdeck was then given ZW$1, 9 billion which was equivalent to US$7,9 million.
After a while they then said they had managed to secure 32 000 goats which they kept in holding pens.
According to Basera, when officials from the Ministry went to confirm, they were shocked to find less than 3 000 goats in the holding pens.
Conflict then arose with the Ministry demanding restitution or going for guarantee if the company failed to supply 600 000 goats as signed for.
Basera will be cross examined this Friday and more wit esses are lined up to testify.
By A Correspondent- At least three people are feared dead following a horrific head-on collision near Uzande Business Centre, which is located approximately 6 kilometres west of Kutama, Murombedzi, along the Chinhoyi-Chegutu Highway in Mashonaland West.
Uzande Business Centre lies close to Murombedzi Growth Point, the rural home of the late former President Robert Mugabe.
The fatal crash, which occurred Thursday afternoon, involved a Toyota Probox and a Lexus SUV.
According to eyewitnesses, the driver of the Lexus reportedly encroached into the lane of the oncoming Probox while attempting to overtake another vehicle, resulting in the collision.
Villagers from nearby homesteads rushed to the scene and helped retrieve the injured passengers, who were later ferried to Chinhoyi Provincial Hospital.
“The Lexus was overtaking another car when it suddenly swerved into the Probox’s path. The impact was terrible,” said Mr Emmerson Chitehwe, who witnessed the accident.
The exact number of injured individuals remains unconfirmed, and authorities have yet to release an official statement.
A former Editor at Zimpapers announced the death of former Zimpapers and lnternational Journalist Daisy Manyika Mavhumashava in a Media WhatsApp Group They wrote “I’m sorry to announce that Daisy Jeremani Mavhumashava is no more. She passed on this evening at Mater Dei Hospital.” More details to follow.
The Acting Chief Director of ARDAS, Mr. Leonard Munamati, today conducted a Winter Wheat planting assessment visit to Mr. Kennedy Shonhiwa’s Munengwa farm, specifically inspecting his 3-hectare wheat plot in Beatrice. Mr. Kennedy Shonhiwa, the farmer, expressed optimism about his wheat harvest, targeting 8 tonnes per hectare, up from 6.6 tonnes per hectare in the previous season.
The Acting Chief Director commended Mr. Shonhiwa for following advice from Agriculture Extension Officers as well as Zinwa in terms of how much water is available and the hactares to plant.
Notably, farmers have already planted over 66,000 hectares of wheat, he said.The Chief Director encouraged farmers to continue planting, as the winter planting period is nearing its end.
Hon Discent Collins Bajila Condemns Machete Attacks, Calls for Increased Police Visibility
I wish to express my profound condemnation of the brutal machete attack that occurred yesterday, May 28, 2025, in Emakhandeni, leaving three men badly injured. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families during this difficult time, and I wish them a swift and full recovery.
This heinous act is not an isolated incident but rather a deeply concerning symptom of a disturbing surge in criminal activities plaguing our beloved Emakhandeni-Luveve Constituency. The confidence of these gangs is increasing with each attack. This is synonymous with repeat offenders who successfully evade the arm of the law.
Residents are increasingly living in fear as the safety and security of our community are being severely compromised. We have witnessed a worrying rise in violent crimes in the past months, including house break ins, theft of motor vehicles, robberies and assaults, which threaten the peace and stability that we all strive for.
Such acts of violence have no place in our society. They undermine the fabric of our community and instill a pervasive sense of insecurity. It is imperative that we address this escalating crisis with urgency and resolve.
I therefore call upon the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) to significantly improve their visibility and presence within the Emakhandeni-Luveve Constituency. Increased patrols, proactive community engagement, and swift responses to reported incidents are crucial steps to deter criminals and restore public confidence. Our citizens deserve to feel safe in their homes and on our streets.
I further urge all residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities to the police immediately. Community cooperation has proven to be vital in our collective efforts to combat crime and ensure the safety of our neighborhoods.
As your elected representative, I am committed to working closely with law enforcement agencies, neighborhood watch committees, community leaders, and residents to develop sustainable solutions to this pressing issue. To that end, I will be convening an all stakeholders conference on crime in the next few weeks. We must collectively ensure that Emakhandeni-Luveve remains a safe and prosperous community for all.
Wolverhampton Wanderers and Zimbabwe national team midfielder Marshall Munetsi has been named the 2025 Zim Achievers Awards (ZAA) UK Sports Personality of the Year.
Munetsi, who made a high-profile move to Wolves in January from French Ligue 1 outfit Stade de Reims, edged out strong competition from fellow Warriors stars Tawanda Chirewa—his club teammate—and Reading’s Tivonge Rushesha.
Also in contention for the honour were versatile athlete Raphael Chiwandire, known for excelling in football, boxing, and athletics, along with Chichi Sabetha.
This marks Munetsi’s first major accolade since making the switch to English football six months ago, highlighting a promising start to his Premier League career.
The award was presented at a glittering ceremony held at the Grand Hotel in Birmingham on May 17, 2025, as the ZAA UK celebrated Zimbabweans making significant contributions in various sectors across the United Kingdom.
Harare, Zimbabwe – Zimbabwean football giants Dynamos have been hit with a major setback after FIFA imposed a ban preventing the club from registering new players.
The sanction comes as a result of the club’s failure to settle outstanding debts owed to two former players, Ghanaian duo Emmanuel Paga and Fredrick Ansa-Botchway.
According to sources close to the situation, Paga is owed US$8,500 while Ansa-Botchway is due US$10,000, bringing the total debt to US$18,500. FIFA’s ruling now puts the Harare-based club in a difficult position, particularly as they attempt to rebuild during the mid-season window.
The ban will remain in place until Dynamos have fully paid both players. FIFA’s disciplinary action underscores the governing body’s firm stance on financial accountability and player welfare.
Dynamos, once a dominant force in Zimbabwean football, have struggled in recent seasons both on and off the pitch. This latest development further dampens the club’s hopes of reclaiming former glory, as they will be unable to bolster their squad ahead of the crucial second half of the season.
However, insiders suggest that the club is working to resolve the issue as swiftly as possible to avoid long-term repercussions.
FIFA has increasingly taken a tough approach with clubs that default on player payments, with several teams across Africa facing similar sanctions in recent years.
Fans and football analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the Glamour Boys respond to this latest crisis and whether they can navigate the remainder of the season with their current squad.
Hwange – In a development that has sparked debate about Zimbabwe’s growing appetite for taxes, the Hwange Local Board has issued a formal demand for an annual fee of USD 80.50 from a local business owner — for operating a snooker table.
In a letter dated May 16, 2025, and signed by Town Secretary N. Mdlalose, the council informed the business located at 4 Sandalwood Crescent, Baobab Hill, that payment was required in accordance with Hwange Local Board by-laws and the Urban Councils Act (Chapter 29:15), specifically Sections 269 to 272.
“We wish to inform you that an annual tariff of USD 80.50, inclusive of Value Added Tax, is due for the operation of a snooker table at your premises,” reads the letter.
Failure to comply by the set deadline of May 30, 2025, would result in immediate enforcement action.
“Please be advised that failure to make this payment by Monday, 30 May 2025, will leave Council with no option but to prohibit the continued operation of the snooker table(s).”
The move has stirred outrage among small business operators, who say the council is targeting harmless entertainment amenities to raise revenue in a crumbling economy.
“This is getting ridiculous,” said one Hwange entrepreneur who runs a bottle store and spoke on condition of anonymity. “We pay for licenses, we pay ZIMRA, we pay EMA, and now we have to pay to let someone play a game of snooker? What’s next, a dartboard tax?”
Another small business owner expressed frustration over what they described as a punitive system.
“They should be encouraging small businesses, not bleeding us dry. A snooker table doesn’t make that kind of money,” he said. “This is just another way of milking struggling operators.”
Social commentators say the move reflects a broader national trend, where local authorities are introducing unconventional fees in an attempt to stay afloat.
“Zimbabwe is slowly becoming a tax country,” said one observer.
“The tax regime has reached alarming levels, and it’s now encroaching into leisure and low-income entertainment.”
Local authorities have been increasingly criticized for targeting informal and micro-level operators rather than addressing corporate compliance or service delivery gaps.
As the deadline looms, it remains to be seen whether operators will comply or push back against what many now call “the snooker tax.”
The legal team representing Wellington Masiwa, widely known by his alias Nyokayemabhunu, has clarified the next steps in the high-profile court case currently unfolding in South Africa.
According to information received by ZimEye.com on Thursday afternoon, court proceedings are set to resume tomorrow, although the issue of bail is not expected to be addressed during this session.
“Lawyers have submitted their reply affidavit to the state’s affidavit. The judge said she is going to hear the matter tomorrow,” a source on the ground confirmed.
While there has been growing public interest in whether Masiwa will be granted bail, legal sources indicated that further procedural steps are still required.
“Bail is not going to be tomorrow. There is still going to be an exchange of documents. That magistrate will have to decide on that afterwards,” the source explained.
The case continues to draw attention both in Zimbabwe and South Africa, with many closely monitoring how the legal battle will unfold.
“When the judge receives the argument after that, she will decide what her verdict is,” the source added, signaling that a final decision remains some way off.
More updates are expected as the court reconvenes.
Opposition leader Advocate Nelson Chamisa has fiercely criticised President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s newly launched media policy, dismissing it as ineffective and misleading. Speaking in a statement released on Thursday, Chamisa described the policy unveiled in Harare the previous day as “a damp squib.”
“The recently launched media policy by the Zanu PF administration is yet another hollow gesture,” Chamisa said. “Let’s be clear: the real crisis in Zimbabwe’s media sector is not a lack of policy, but the continued criminalisation of journalism. No amount of lipstick will beautify a frog.”
According to Chamisa, instead of creating space for innovation and media freedom, the policy serves to consolidate government control. “True reform would have meant breaking the monopoly, not entrenching it; promoting local investment, not stifling it,” he said.
He further argued that a genuine media policy would focus on empowering journalists and ensuring their protection. “A real media policy would empower journalists, not threaten them with deregistration under vague ‘rules and standards’ designed to muzzle dissent,” Chamisa stated. “It would promote self-regulation, as we see in other respected professions.”
Chamisa also took aim at the state-run broadcasters, ZBC and Zimpapers, saying they remain mouthpieces of propaganda rather than platforms for public service. “It would transform ZBC and Zimpapers into genuine public service platforms, not echo chambers of outdated propaganda.”
The opposition leader was equally critical of the proposed Media Fund, warning it could further strain an already struggling media industry. “The so-called proposed Media Fund will burden struggling media houses even further,” he said. “Our journalists, including those in public media, are earning peanuts, not because of poor work ethic, but because of collapsing revenues aided by a hostile environment.”
Chamisa accused the government of offering cosmetic changes that fail to address deeper issues. “This policy offers no meaningful support for retooling in the digital age. It’s not a new dispensation, it’s a new deception.”
Calling for sweeping reforms, Chamisa concluded: “We need a complete overhaul. It is time to decriminalise journalism, dismantle media capture, and enable Zimbabwe’s media to thrive as a job-creating, economy-boosting industry. For the people. For the country. For God. Forever and always.”
Harare – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared that the media in Zimbabwe must align with the national development agenda and embrace the philosophy of Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo, urging journalists to take on a patriotic role in their work.
Speaking at the official launch of the Zimbabwe Media Policy at State House on May 28, 2025, Mnangagwa made it clear that journalists must reflect the government’s narrative and avoid content that paints the country in a negative light.
“The past trends where media practitioners competed for prominence on the degree to which they demonised our country, has no place in the Zimbabwe we fought for, we are building and we all want,” Mnangagwa said.
He emphasized that Zimbabwe’s media must act as “the symbolic eye and mirror of society,” presenting the nation in a truthful but constructive manner.
“It is my expectation that the sector functions as the symbolic ‘eye’ and ‘mirror’ of society, providing an honest and grounded reflection of our realities,” he said.
Mnangagwa said the newly launched policy is intended to regulate the evolving digital media space, protect user rights, and ensure factual, ethical journalism.
“Through the promulgation of the National Media Policy, we are strengthening and guaranteeing that our citizens will have access to factual, verified, accurate, and reliable information,” he said.
He warned that media content deemed harmful to the nation’s reputation would not be tolerated.
“Content that harms our country and fellow citizens has no space in our constitutional democracy. The law and justice system will take its course on all those who infringe on the rights of others on media platforms,” he said.
The President highlighted the need for digital media platforms to contribute financially to local economies.
“Digital taxes and fair revenue sharing from all media players should contribute to local economies and content creators,” Mnangagwa said.
He positioned the media as a strategic tool for national development, social cohesion, and economic progress.
“The media must influence Zimbabwe’s national brand and strategic image in manner that reflects these core characteristics,” he said.
He further tasked content creators with rebranding Zimbabwe through positive storytelling.
“The time has come for the world to hear the authentic story of who we are and what we stand for, from our own eyes, from our own mouths and from our own media and the people of our motherland,” he said.
Calling on unity in messaging, Mnangagwa urged the media to work hand in hand with the government in pursuit of national goals.
“Let us, therefore, move forward with determination and unity, empowering our media industry to be a shining beacon for inclusivity and national pride, that advances our national interests and celebrates being Zimbabwean,” he said.
The Zimbabwe Media Policy, according to Mnangagwa, will serve as a framework for balancing freedom of expression with responsibility and platform accountability.
“In conclusion, I reiterate that a responsible, modern and accountable media is vital for a vibrant constitutional democracy, nation-building and the promotion of people-centred development,” Mnangagwa said.
He ended his speech by officially declaring the policy launched, urging the media sector to “help realise an intricate balance between freedom of expression and the need for content and platform accountability.”
Masvingo – As the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) rolled out their four-day blitz against informal traders, touts, and moneychangers under the “Restore Sanity” campaign, those targeted have hit back—accusing the government of criminalizing poverty and failing to create jobs.
The operation, which began on May 28 and continues until May 31, has seen police and municipal officials descend on ExorMart Garage in Rujeko, a hotspot for informal economic activity.
Touts have been arrested, vendors displaced, and unregistered vehicles impounded.
But the people being removed from the streets say the state is targeting survival, not crime.
“We’re not here by choice. There are no jobs. The government has failed us, and now they treat us like criminals for trying to eat,” said a 32-year-old illegal moneychanger who asked to be identified only as Tinashe.
The police say the operation aims to restore public order by clearing illegal vendors, unlicensed taxis, and moneychangers who they claim are causing congestion and harassing the public.
“It has been noted with concern the unruly behavior being exhibited by touts disrupting the smooth flow of traffic and harassing members of the public at ExorMart Garage,” said a police statement.
However, informal traders argue that the crackdown is heavy-handed and unfairly targets the poor.
“They come here with baton sticks and take our tomatoes, meat, everything. Why not give us proper markets first before chasing us like animals?” said 45-year-old vendor Mai Rudo.
The government has justified the campaign by citing multiple violations of the law, including breaches of the Road Traffic Act, Public Health Act, and local by-laws. Health inspectors were deployed to assess food safety, particularly around meat being sold without refrigeration or inspection.
“Big chefs sell expired food in shops and nothing happens. But when we try to feed our families, we are the ones arrested,” said Mai Rudo.
Touts operating unregistered commuter vehicles, known locally as mushika-shika, have also been hit hard. Several have been arrested or fined during police patrols.
“They say we are causing chaos but people use our cars. Give us jobs or affordable taxis, then maybe we’ll stop,” said one tout.
The ZRP insists its operation is lawful and necessary. Officers have been instructed to conduct stop-and-search operations, inspect business premises, and remain professional at all times.
“This is about restoring peace, safety, and dignity to our streets,” said a senior police official. “Officers have been told not to accept bribes or abuse citizens.”
The operation comes just days after the fatal stabbing of a Masvingo Polytechnic student at Ndarama High School, an incident that police say highlighted the need for greater control of public spaces.
But those in the informal sector say the crackdown is misdirected.
“You can’t police your way out of poverty. We need solutions, not raids,” said Tinashe, the moneychanger.
I have submitted my reply affidavit to the states affidavit. The judge said she is going to hear the matter tomorrow. Bail is not going to be tomorrow there is still going to be an exchange of documents, that magistrate will have to decide on that afterwards. When the judge… https://t.co/BQJBaVKq6O
A disturbing incident unfolded outside a South African court, where an Interpol officer was attacked by an angry mob during the court case of Nyokayemabhunu.
The officer’s papers were reportedly seized by the crowd.
The incident occurred outside the Randburg Court, where supporters of Nyokayemabhunu had gathered. In a show of defiance, they also denounced President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s 2030 agenda.
The situation highlights the tensions surrounding Nyokayemabhunu’s case and the strong emotions it has stirred among his supporters.
Full statement by Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa at the launch of Zimbabwe media policy, Harare May 28, 2025
SPEECH BY THE PRESIDENT, HIS EXCELLENCY, DR E. D. MNANGAGWA AT THE LAUNCH OF THE ZIMBABWE MEDIA POLICY STATE HOUSE -HARARE 28 MAY 2025
Director of Ceremonies; Vice President, Hon. Gen. (Rtd) Dr. C. G. D. N. Chiwenga; Vice President, Hon. Col. (Rtd) K. C. D. Mohadi; National Chairman of ZANU PF and Minister of Defence, Hon. O. C. Z. Muchinguri-Kashiri; Minister of State for Harare Metropolitan Province, Hon. C. Z. Tawengwa; Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Hon. Dr. J. Muswere; Chief Secretary Dr. M. Rushwaya; to the Senior Government Officials; Distinguished Guests; Ladies and Gentlemen.
I am honoured to officiate at this occasion, marking the launch of the Zimbabwe Media Policy.
This policy comes at a time, when both the global and local media ecosystems are witnessing an unprecedented transformation, ushered by emerging technologies.
Additionally, Artificial Intelligence is undoubtedly revolutionising all aspects of our social and economic sectors, with the media industry being no exception.
Artificial Intelligence has reshaped information gathering, analysis, production, and dissemination.
This and other related innovations in science and technologyhave collectively increased the speed, interactivity and reach of journalism, while also presenting new opportunities and challenges.
These relate to accuracy, ethics and information overload, among others.
The extensive and multi-pronged implications of these developments, especially on the global South, Africa and us in Zimbabwe have the danger of challenging our respective national sovereignty and democracy.
Through the promulgation of the National Media Policy, we are launching today, my Government is strengthening and guaranteeing that our citizens will have access to factual, verified, accurate, and reliable information.
These are all important ingredients to accelerate our country’s national development agenda.
Further, our philosophy ‘Nyika inovakwa, inotongwa, inonamatigwa nevene vayo/ Ilizwe lakhiwa, libuswe, likhu-le-kelwe ngabanikazi balo,’ demands that we deploy, information in our reach in the context of the unique rich history, culture and vision of our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe.
Through this policy, my Government seeks to ensure protection against the significant ever looming threats to facts, ethics, diversity and cultural plurality by the global tech infrastructure.
Hence our regulatory efforts, content and platform accountability, as well as support for Zimbabwe’s independent content ecosystem, will be enhanced.
Addressing issues related to market dominance, privacy, misinformation, disinformation and user rights are areas that are encapsulated in this Policy.
In this regard, there must be ripple benefits from regulating Big-Tech services, including through taxation and fair payment.
Digital taxes and fair revenue sharing from all media players should contribute to local economies and content creators.
The need and importance of protecting users from exploitative practices and promoting digital literacy so that users safely navigate online environments cannot be over emphasised.
It is pleasing to note that the formulation and subsequent launch of the Media Policy is in keeping with Sections 61 and 62 of our national constitution, which sets out fundamental principles guiding our media, practitioners in the sector and access to information.
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen; My Government regards both our public and privatemedia as strategic cogs towards achieving our national development aspirations and Vision 2030.
It is my expectation that the sector functions as the symbolic ‘eye’ and ‘mirror’ of society, providing an honest and grounded reflection of our realities.
This role should never be taken lightly. As the media industry and media practitioners informs, scrutinises and influences socio-economic developments, for the betterment of our country, you must be vigilant.
Your responsible operations should also foster an informed, engaged, constitutional and democratic Zimbabwe.
The past trends where media practitioners competed for prominence on the degree to which they demonised our country, has no place in the Zimbabwe we fought for, we are building and we all want.
The role of the media towards mobilising resources, fostering innovation and creating an environment conducive for investors to set up business as we march forward, towards an upper middle-income economy is also applauded.
However, I challenge the media fraternity, along with other stakeholders, to scale up our ongoing quest to shape a positive image, about our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe.
On their part, citizens must use various media platformsto accelerate progress, as well as galvanise the nation towards production and productivity across all sectors as well as inclusive growth and the attainment of our national development goals.
No one and no place must be left behind. Ladies and Gentlemen; Under my leadership, the media will continue to be our cornerstone for promoting unity, peace, social cohesion, harmony and the love for our country.
The Media Policy we are launching is an important cog that must help realise an intricate balance between freedom of expression and the need for content and platform accountability.
We are a nation strongly rooted in our value systems, dignity and integrity. These cardinal values must result in ethical journalism.
Content that harms our country and fellow citizens has no space in our constitutional democracy.
The law and justice system will take its course on all those who infringe on the rights of others on media platforms. The values of Ubuntu/Hunhu, must always inspire us to balance our individual and collective rights.
Ladies and Gentlemen; To date, my Government continues to implement several development programmes and projects to consolidate the gains of democratising the media space and environment.
Community Radio Stations have been licenced, which have proved crucial in revitalising the indigenous languages and cultures of our great motherland, Zimbabwe.
By sharing traditional knowledge and fostering community participation, Community Radio Stations are helping to preserve and promote our rich heritage and identity.
Capacity-building programmes to guarantee the efficacy of these and other stations, will be supported by my administration.
It is commendable that the modernisation of Zimpapers is now at an advanced stage.
The project aims to make Zimpapers more competitive in the digital age, improve news delivery speed and meet the ever-evolving needs of our audience.
Under the 2nd phase of the Zim-Digital Programme, the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation studios in Bulawayo at Montrose have been digitalised.
Funds have also been set aside to develop content creation hubs, which will result in modern media organisations andempower our creatives to produce diverse, high-quality content for a competitive local media industry.
Fellow Zimbabweans; We are the custodians of our own stories and narratives. For far too long, our narrative has been deconstructed, distorted and misrepresented.
As we implement the Media Policy, let us reclaim and correct this anomaly. A truthful, coherent and positive story of Zimbabwe will consolidate our national peace, unity and accelerate our development.
The time has come for the world to hear the authentic story of who we are and what we stand for, from our own eyes, from our own mouths and from our own media and the people of our motherland.
The Zimbabwean story is one of hard work and resilience amid adversity, such as the illegal sanctions and climate change.
It is a narrative of the people’s victory, for our Independence, and sovereignty, as well exposing and shaming our country’s detractors. The true and undiluted Zimbabwean story is about us the people who are masters of our own destiny.
The media must influence Zimbabwe’s national brand and strategic image in manner that reflects these core characteristics.
Further, I challenge our media to be also aware of the role it plays in advancing our national interests within the comity of nations through purposeful and focused engagements, guided by our Foreign Policy.
I call upon our content creators and all the stakeholders in the sector to help create and showcase our natural and cultural treasures.
Riding on modern technologies, as well as leveraging digital platforms, I urge you to craft appealing messaging and imagery that attracts both local and foreign capital, investments and tourism, among other socio-economic benefits.
Let us, therefore, move forward with determination and unity, empowering our media industry to be a shining beacon for inclusivity and national pride, that advances our national interests and celebrates being Zimbabwean.
In conclusion, I reiterate that a responsible, modern and accountable media is vital for a vibrant constitutional democracy, nation-building and the promotion of people-centred development.
Through this Zimbabwe Media Policy, we have taken a bold decision to ensurethat the sector remains a source of enlightenment, empowerment, progress, unity and the sustainable of development of our motherland, Zimbabwe.
With these remarks, it is now my singular honour and privilege to declare the Zimbabwe Media Policy officially launched.
God bless you all.God bless Zimbabwe. I thank you.
By Farai D Hove | ZimEye | Bulawayo-based preacher Prophet Ian Ndlovu of Divine Kingdom Baptist Ministries is under fire after asking his congregants to fork out an additional US$8,000 to cover the cost of transferring land title deeds to the name of his church — just weeks after receiving a US$100,000 “donation” from controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo.
In a video address to his followers, Ndlovu explained that the money was needed to complete the legal process of consolidating and officially registering the church’s land. He cited fluctuating costs from the Deeds Office and the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), saying:
“The rough calculation that was made by our lawyers is that we need approximately $8,000… depending on the charges at the tax revenue office… and also at the register of deeds office. We need to urgently raise that money to protect the interests of our community of believers who have contributed so much.”
But the appeal has sparked outrage and confusion, with many questioning why church members are being asked to fund basic administrative fees after Ndlovu was handed a massive cash injection from a man under international money laundering investigation.
CHIVAYO’S INFLUENCE LOOMS LARGE
Chivayo, who recently gave similar cash and luxury car “donations” to high-profile religious and political figures — including Apostle Eunor Guti and state journalist Reuben Barwe — is already facing scrutiny from South Africa’s Financial Intelligence Centre for allegedly laundering over R1 billion in public funds.
Observers say Ndlovu’s sudden call for an additional $8,000, just weeks after openly receiving Chivayo’s $100K, adds to growing concerns that churches are being co-opted into laundering dirty money through spiritual branding and coerced congregant contributions.
QUESTIONS OF TRANSPARENCY AND PRIORITY
“What happened to the $100,000?” many churchgoers and commentators are now asking. Wasn’t that gift meant to cover critical costs like land ownership, infrastructure, and legal regularization?
Instead, congregants — many of whom are ordinary Zimbabweans struggling under economic hardship — are now being pressured to urgently raise thousands of dollars for a land deed that should have been budgeted for long ago, especially in light of Chivayo’s so-called donation.
Critics argue that the sudden financial urgency appears exploitative, particularly given the Prophet’s public association with one of Zimbabwe’s most controversial businessmen.
A PATTERN OF PROPHETS AND PLUNDER
This development follows a pattern in which religious leaders accept large sums from political elites and wealthy tenderpreneurs, only to shift additional costs onto their congregations under the guise of “protecting the church.”
Whether knowingly or not, Prophet Ian Ndlovu now finds himself caught in the storm of a broader scandal: the intersection of state corruption, religious laundering, and financial manipulation of believers.
As investigations into Chivayo deepen across international borders, the question remains:
Where is the money really going?
And more urgently: Why are God’s people being made to pay twice?
This is a developing story. Follow for updates as calls for financial transparency and independent audits grow louder across Zimbabwe’s religious landscape.
Masvingo – In a bold move to reclaim order on city streets, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Masvingo Central District has launched a four-day crackdown targeting touts (mahwindis), unregistered vehicles (mushika-shika), illegal vendors, and unauthorized money changers.
The sweeping operation, dubbed “Restore Sanity,” kicked off on May 28 and will run through May 31, 2025, with enforcement efforts centered around the chaotic ExorMart Garage in Rujeko.
According to police, the initiative is a response to mounting concerns over lawlessness at the busy site.
“It has been noted with concern the unruly behavior being exhibited by touts disrupting the smooth flow of traffic and harassing members of the public at ExorMart Garage,” Masvingo police said.
The ZRP is working in conjunction with the Masvingo City Council, the Judiciary, and other regulatory authorities to implement the operation. It will be guided by key legal instruments, including the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, the Public Health Act, the Road Traffic Act, and various municipal by-laws.
Police say the operation specifically targets:
Touts harassing passengers and causing commuter chaos
Illegal money changers operating without licenses
Vendors blocking pavements and selling unregulated food products Mushika-shika vehicles operating outside the law…
“This operation is not only about law enforcement,” added the ZRP .
“It’s about protecting the public and restoring order. We are working to ensure that Masvingo is a safe environment for everyone, including visitors and residents.”
Public health officials have also joined the mission, tasked with inspecting food and meat products being sold under unsafe and unhygienic conditions.
“We are concerned about the public health risks posed by unregulated food vending, particularly meat that is not stored or handled properly,” said a health expert.
The police will be conducting roadblocks, random stop-and-search operations, and visiting licensed business premises to ensure compliance with the law. Officers will also be on the lookout for suspects on the police wanted list.
To maintain transparency and professionalism, the ZRP has issued strict guidelines to its officers. “Those involved in the operation must uphold human rights, avoid corrupt practices, and are strictly forbidden from accepting any form of gift or bribe,” police confirmed.
Additionally, an investigative team will be assembled to prepare cases for court, aiming to secure convictions for repeat offenders.
The operation comes in the wake of a recent violent crime that shocked the community—a Masvingo Polytechnic student was fatally stabbed at Ndarama High School last week. Authorities say the tragic incident underscored the urgent need for a stronger presence of law enforcement in public spaces.
“This is about more than just arrests—it’s about restoring peace, safety, and dignity to our streets,” the ZRP emphasized.
By Crime and Courts Reporter — Police have impounded five luxury vehicles belonging to banker Cletas Tonderai Nyakambiro (38), who stands accused of defrauding Standard Chartered Bank of over US$2.3 million in a sophisticated banking scam.
Nyakambiro, an Internal Control Officer at the bank, allegedly manipulated internal systems and created fake accounts to siphon funds for personal use.
He has appeared before Harare Regional Magistrate Feresi Chakanyuka, with Public Prosecutor Kudakwashe Muzarepresenting the State. His alleged accomplice, Candrick Kupakuwana (49) of Mainway Meadows, Harare, is still at large.
According to Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri of the CID Commercial Crimes Division, the fraud occurred on September 27, 2022.
“The accused, employed as an Internal Control Officer at a reputable financial institution, allegedly conspired with a fugitive accomplice to open two fraudulent bank accounts,” said Det Insp Muteweri. “They manipulated beneficiary details to divert tax payments into these fake accounts and used the money for personal benefit.”
The scam cost the bank US$2,293,483.84 and ZWG514,735.41.
Police have since seized ten movable assets believed to be crime proceeds, including a Toyota Fortuner, Land Rover, Chevrolet Cruze, Toyota Aqua, and a Mercedes-Benz S280.
Nyakambiro, a self-proclaimed UNISA graduate, portrays himself on social media as a family man devoted to his twin children, while also flaunting a lifestyle of luxury, alcohol, and lavish outings.
Authorities are appealing for information on Candrick Kupakuwana, whose last known address is 2751 Mainway Meadows, Waterfalls, Harare.
Nyakambiro faces charges under Section 8(1)(a) of the Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act, and fraudunder Section 136 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23].
ZANU PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa has sparked fresh political debate after subtly suggesting the need for renewed leadership accountability within the party — comments that some have interpreted as a veiled swipe at President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Briefing the media in Harare, earlier this week, Mutsvangwa emphasized the importance of leadership renewal in the face of growing economic frustration and political stagnation.
“No leader, no matter how powerful, should be insulated from scrutiny,” said Mutsvangwa. “Our revolution was built on accountability, not entitlement.”
While Mutsvangwa did not mention Mnangagwa by name, observers were quick to point out the context. His remarks came amid increasing speculation about internal party rifts and concerns over alleged succession maneuvers within the President’s close circles.
“The moment any leader starts to believe he owns the party — that’s the moment he must be reminded who owns the revolution,” Mutsvangwa added.
Adding fuel to the fire, Mutsvangwa also made reference to the military’s historic role in safeguarding national interests.
“The armed forces do not serve an individual. They serve the people. And when the people’s will is undermined, we’ve seen before what happens,” he said.
While the official party line insists that Mutsvangwa’s comments were about internal discipline and rejuvenation, critics see them as a signal of deeper unrest within the ruling elite — possibly foreshadowing another internal showdown.
The President’s office has not issued a formal response to the remarks.
As the political temperature rises ahead of key party events later this year, one thing is certain: Mutsvangwa’s words have reignited questions about the balance of power within ZANU PF — and whether history could be poised to repeat itself.
Vungu Ward 7 Councillor Bhekimpilo Sibanda in Lower Gweru has condemned Henry Mathumbu a Nurse at Tumbire Clinic in Lower Gweru at Shagari who macheted Mbonisi Mlando 13 times from head to toe and is admitted at Gweru General Hospital. It is alleged that Mlambo questioned Mathumbu over his sexual relationship with his wife.Councillor Sibanda was addressing the mouners in Lower Gweru at the burial service of Sinonisiwe Dabengwa-Sibanda. He called for peace in the country.
By Courts and Crime Reporter- A Chikurubi Maximum Prison-based prison officer has been arrested for raping a teenager.
Proud Bhanya is alleged to have lured his lover, 19, from Glenwood to his room at the camp where he raped her once without protection.
Harare provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, confirmed the case, saying investigations were in progress.
“Police are investigating a rape case involving a teenager in Chikurubi,” said Insp Chakanza. “The accused person is the complainant’s friend.“On May 26, 2025, at around 2pm, the complainant visited the accused person’s place of residence where she was raped once without protection,” said Insp Chakanza.
Police confirms receiving three robbery cases which occurredin Bulawayo.
On the 28th of May 2025 at around 1845 hours the complainant a male adult aged 52 years of Emakhandeni, Bulawayo was alone on his way home from Tsholotsho Rank along Masiyepambili when he met two unknown accused persons near Makhosi ground. One of the accused person pretended as if he was passing by and he immediately turned to the complainant and striked him once on the head from behind with a machete and he fell down on the ground. The other accused searched him and took way Huawei Y 9 black in colour, us$ 20-00 and a black wallet with identity cards, total value stolen is US$ 120-00.
On the same day at around 1930 hours the two accused person met the second complainant a male adult aged 40 of Emakhandeni Bulawayo along a foot path near the ground behind Appolo shops and used the same method to rob him off his belongings. As they were trying to strike him on the head he blocked the machete and got injured on both hands. The complainant managed to escape though they took away a wallet with us$ 70-00, national identity card, hoodie jacket he was wearing red in colour, black tennis he was also wearing and Huawei P8 Lite cellphone, total valued stolen is US$200-00
The accused persons went on to rob the third complainant a male adult aged 38 years of Gwabalanda Bulawayo at the same spot behind Appolo shops. They striked him thrice on the head and he sustained deep cuts. They also hit him once on the forehead with a hammer and he fell down. They searched him and took away Samsung J4 Core black in colour, US$100-00, a yellow satchel with 3 trousers, white track bottom and Adidasblack push all valued at US$250-00
The Complainants managed to proceed to Appollo shopping centre where an ambulance was summoned and ferried all of them to Mpilo hospital for medical examinations. The total value stolen is US$ $570-00 and nothing was recovered.
We appeal to members of the public to avoid using secluded paths and roads especially during the night so as to avoid such incidents. Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of the accused persons to come forward.
By Crime and Courts Reporter- The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has released the names of eight of the twelve people who died in a fatal road traffic accident at Sebakwe River in Kwekwe, on Tuesday.
Sebakwe river is less than 20 KM from President Mnangagwa’s Precabe farm
ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the identities of four female victims have not yet been confirmed.
The victims were identified by their next of kin as listed:
James Ncube (23), a male Adult of number 44 village 12, Sherwood, Kwekwe.
Marvellous Mapanzure (20), a male adult of Indarama Mine, Kwekwe.
Emilly Mpofu Mucheuki (25), a female adult of plot 27 Sherwood, Kwekwe.
Joshua Muza (35), a male adult of Indarama mine Kwekwe.
Reward Nyatsongo (28), a male adult of village 7 Marivel, kwekwe.
Farai Bisendi (47), a female adult of number 19363 Mbizo 16, Kwekwe.
Emmanuel Mangomana (21), a male adult of Kwekwe.
Maria Jasi (43), a female adult of number 9371 Mbizo 16 Extension, Kwekwe.
By Crime and Courts Reporter-A prominent banker, Cletas Tonderai Nyakambiro (38), has been arrested for allegedly defrauding his employer, Standard Chartered Bank (Stanchart), of over US$2.3 million in a sophisticated banking scam. Nyakambiro, who worked as an Internal Control Officer at the bank, is accused of manipulating internal systems and creating fraudulent accounts to siphon funds for personal gain.
He has since appeared before Harare Regional Magistrate Feresi Chakanyuka, with Public Prosecutor Kudakwashe Muza representing the State. His alleged accomplice, Candrick Kupakuwana (49), of Mainway Meadows in Harare, is currently on the run.
According to a statement from Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri of the Zimbabwe Republic Police Criminal Investigations Department (CID), the alleged offence dates back to September 27, 2022.
“The accused, employed as an Internal Control Officer at a reputable financial institution, allegedly conspired with a fugitive accomplice to open two fraudulent bank accounts,” said Det Insp Muteweri. “The duo is accused of manipulating beneficiary account details, diverting funds intended for tax payments into the fake accounts, and subsequently misappropriating the money for personal use.”
The fraud reportedly resulted in a total prejudice of US$2,293,483.84 and ZWG514,735.41 to the bank.
As part of ongoing investigations, the police have seized 10 movable assets, including a Toyota Fortuner, Land Rover, Chevrolet Cruze, Toyota Aqua, and a Mercedes-Benz S280, all believed to be proceeds of the crime.
Nyakambiro, who claims to have studied at the University of South Africa (UNISA), has a visible digital footprint portraying a man devoted to his family, particularly his twin children. His social media also reveals a lifestyle filled with luxury, alcohol, and social outings.
Police are now appealing for information leading to the arrest of Candrick Kupakuwana, whose last known address is 2751 Mainway Meadows, Waterfalls, Harare.
Nyakambiro faces charges of contravening Section 8(1)(a) of the Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act, as well as fraud under Section 136 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23].
Thirteen youths were arrested in Cowdray Park, Bulawayo, on 24 May after police busted a Vuzu party, Harare Times has reported.
The arrests followed noise complaints from residents, prompting police officers to investigate a seven-roomed house in the suburb.
“About 13 unruly teens were arrested at a wild sex party in Cowdray Park in Bulawayo. They were busted taking drugs and having unprotected sex on Saturday night. We proceeded to the house and arrested 13 individuals who were attending the Vuzu party,” said Bulawayo police spokesperson, Inspector Nomalanga Msebele.
The house where the party was held is reportedly occupied by a 21-year-old man and his sister, whose parents were away in Botswana at the time. Those arrested include the 21-year-old host and 12 others, aged between 17 and 21.
The incident underscores growing concerns over the rise of Vuzu parties in Bulawayo, where youths frequently engage in substance abuse, underage drinking, and risky sexual behavior. Authorities have urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and actively monitor their children’s social activities.
ZANU PF is stepping up its campaign efforts ahead of the crucial by-elections in Gutu East and Insiza North, slated for June 14, with party machinery operating at full throttle.
The ruling party has intensified mobilisation across both constituencies, rallying supporters and consolidating its voter base as it looks to extend its electoral dominance.
Speaking on the campaign trail, ZANU PF Secretary General Obert Mpofu voiced strong confidence in the party’s prospects, pointing to past by-election victories as evidence of growing support. “Our political approach has matured. We’ve secured wins in all recent by-elections through genuine mobilisation and clean campaigns. The President promotes inclusive leadership rooted in constitutional principles—not top-down directives,” Mpofu said.
In Insiza North, the race will feature four contenders: Delani Moyo of ZANU PF, Thabani Mlotshwa of ZAPU, independent candidate Lesley Dube, and Mbongeni Moyo of the Zimbabwe National Revival Party.
Meanwhile, the Gutu East ballot will see a three-way battle between ZANU PF’s Zvarevashe Masvingise, independent Gift Gonese, and Zivanai Nzvenga of the National Constitutional Assembly (NCA).
With various parties eyeing stronger representation in the National Assembly, the contests are expected to be tightly fought.
ZANU PF has reiterated its pledge to uphold peace, transparency, and people-centered engagement throughout the electoral process.
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has confirmed that all logistical preparations for the June 14 vote are complete.
🔴 BREAKING NEWS: CCC Councillor Stranded Over Unused Travel Funds, Pleads for Allowance Deductions
Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe — 29 May 2025
Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Councillor for Chinhoyi Ward 8, David Malunga, has found himself in an embarrassing financial standoff after failing to reimburse travel and subsistence allowances paid out for a trip to Gweru he never undertook.
Cllr Malunga recently wrote to Acting Town Clerk Engineer Simon Marara, requesting that US$75 be deducted monthly from his councillor allowance to offset the debt, which totals ZiG9 154.04 and US$337.37—funds disbursed in December 2024.
However, the request has hit a policy wall.
The council’s Finance Director Zephaniah Chirarwe noted that if deductions were made as proposed, it would take eight months to recover the full amount—a clear violation of the Accounting Procedure Manual, which mandates repayment within 30 days.
Without an existing municipal policy to facilitate such a repayment plan, the issue was escalated to the full council for resolution.
During a heated Finance Committee meeting on May 8, multiple councillors voiced concern over the prolonged delay:
• Cllr Garikai Dendera criticised the lack of urgency, stating that “months had elapsed without repayment” and that Cllr Malunga should have been formally advised earlier.
• Cllr Innocent Mangwanya argued the matter was administrative and therefore outside the purview of the committee to recommend.
• Acting Chamber Secretary Ms Hilda Kabangure emphasised that deviation from the Public Finance Management Regulations of 2019 was not permissible, stating that policy compliance is non-negotiable.
Cllr Malunga’s request remains unresolved, with council officials divided over whether to allow gradual repayment or enforce immediate compliance with existing regulations.
The case has triggered wider questions around financial discipline and administrative procedure within local authorities.
A 33-year-old female vendor from Gokwe has been sentenced to 24 months in prison after being convicted of assault for forcefully drawing blood from a 10-year-old girl without consent in a shocking incident that has rocked the local community.
Mavis Sibanda was arraigned at the Gokwe Magistrates’ Court where she was found guilty of assault after she allegedly lured the Grade 5 pupil to her market stall near Sai Mart Supermarket in Gokwe’s Central Business District on May 26, 2025.
According to court records, Sibanda called the minor over under false pretenses before forcefully grabbing her right forefinger and inserting a needle to draw blood. She then placed the sample into an HIV testing kit, all without parental consent or medical clearance.
The traumatised child was left crying and wandering the area until two concerned men approached her. After learning of the disturbing event, they escorted her home and informed her father, who immediately reported the incident to the police. This led to Sibanda’s swift arrest.
The court found her actions to be both unlawful and reckless, sentencing her to two years of imprisonment for assaulting a minor and conducting unauthorized medical procedures.
Authorities have condemned the incident, urging members of the public to report any suspicious or unauthorised health-related activities in market areas.
By Dorrothy Moyo | ZimEye | 29 May 2025 | As Zimbabwe prepares to unveil the $88 million Trabablas Interchange with fanfare, flags, and full ministerial entourages, one glaring symbol of national contradiction stands defiantly by the roadside: a highway sign mounted on raw, untreated wooden poles.
Yes, you read that right. Not steel. Not aluminium. Not galvanised metal. Wood.
This is not just a minor design oversight — it is a national embarrassment.
Signage at Trabablas Interchange
A Nation of Minerals, Begging for Metal?
Zimbabwe boasts some of the richest mineral deposits on the African continent. We are the third-largest producer of platinum globally, the world’s second-largest reserves of chrome, and sit atop vast deposits of nickel, gold, iron ore, lithium, and ferrochrome. In 2023 alone, Zimbabwe earned over US$5.6 billion from mineral exports, according to the Ministry of Mines.
And yet, on one of the country’s most high-profile infrastructure projects, we cannot apparently afford a pair of proper steel poles for road signage.
How is this possible?
The Symbolism of the Rotten Timber
The Trabablas Interchange was billed as a transformative project — one that would supposedly “modernize Zimbabwe’s transport network” and boost the economy. A project officials say is “a milestone of the Second Republic.” And yet here stands a warped signboard, held up by two termite-prone logs — looking more like the gateway to a rural farming co-op than a modern interchange.
This is not just about aesthetics. It’s about engineering integrity, road safety, and value for money.
The Economics of Rot and Rust
For context:
A galvanised steel pole costs around US$50–80 retail.
Even with inflation, two high-quality sign poles should cost no more than US$200 installed.
The entire interchange is reported to have cost US$88 million.
In a nation where school children are sent home for failing to pay $10 school fees, what message does it send when $88 million is spent on an interchange that cuts corners for $200?
Worse still, wooden poles rot, splinter, and warp — which means the signage will deteriorate quickly, becoming a safety hazard and requiring expensive replacement sooner than metal poles would.
Corruption or Gross Negligence?
So what explains this mess?
There are only two real possibilities:
Incompetence by the project managers who allowed this slapdash installation.
Or corruption, where contractors siphoned funds and cut corners, knowing accountability is a distant dream in Zimbabwe’s patronage-drenched public sector.
Either way, the use of wooden poles is not just a technical failure. It is an indictment of the governance rot that continues to plague Zimbabwe’s infrastructure projects.
A Nation Watching
As Ministers pose for Facebook photos and President Mnangagwa prepares his ribbon-cutting speech, Zimbabweans are watching — and laughing. But it’s the laughter of despair, not joy.
In a country teetering on economic collapse, where 70% of citizens live in poverty, where hospitals have no drugs and schools no chalk, the fact that an $88 million interchange uses tree trunks for road signs should enrage every taxpayer.
It is the perfect metaphor for this administration’s leadership: polished surface, rotting foundation.
Until we stop celebrating mediocrity and start demanding accountability, Zimbabwe will continue to pave roads with gold — and hang signs with firewood.
The YouTuber, Pardon Gambakwe was interviewed via phone in a follow up to his public promise to reverse statements that got the activist Wellington Masiwa framed alongside with 105 other citizens, who were charged using the cache phrase Gambakwe introduced to online conversations on 20 March.
Gambakwe said he has not changed his mind on reversing his statements that are untrue.
Pardon Gambakwe meeting Emmerson Mnangagwa’s ambassador Uebert Angel in Harare in 2023 ( credit- Pardon Gambakwe)
He also said that he is not conducting money laundering cover up operations for ambassador Uebert Angel in his activism that started back in 2023 during the first GoldMafia documentary broadcasts. While admitting that he truly planted words into Nyoka’s mouth, he said this is because according to him, Masiwa already had over R1 million rands in his bank account 6 days before his (Gambakwe’s) “we are on our own!” statement.
His brief response went as follows-
Pardon: “You don’t want to hear what I am saying. The money was transferred into Nyoka’s account on the 14th of March; I said my statement on the 20th of March… so you cannot collectively accuse me of money laundering.”
Simba: Whatever that is, you planted words into his mouth that he is (Geza).
Pardon: “I planted the words after the money was received.”
Simba: whatever it is, whatever it is, I’ve got the notes I talk to his lawyers and it is not March when the money was transferred.
Pardon: “your notes are wrong”
Pardon Gambakwe also said he should not be investigated because he is the speaking for the journalism profession, although in his “we are on our own,” videos he speaks more like a spokesman for Masiwa.
Gambakwe also said he speaks authoritatively over Blessed Geza’s alleged connection to Nyoka because he is physically with the war veteran at the moment. When asked for evidence, he failed to produce a video or a videocall with Geza.
Gambakwe also acknowledged that he has publicised allegations that interfere with the ongoing court cases of the SAPS versus Wellington Masiwa by broadcasting claims that interpol police officers have been paid.
THE FOLLOWING WAS THE FULL INTERVIEW TRANSCRIPT Date: 26 May 2025 Participants: Interviewer (Simba Chikanza), Interviewee (Pardon Gambakwe) VIA PHONE.
Date 27 May 2025⸻
Simba: I need to hear from you what’s going on, because you had promised last time during your broadcast that you were going to reverse your statements.
Pardon: We have moved on, Simba.
Simba: How have you moved on? The young man is still in jail; And you know the reason why he’s in jail is for politics. It’s because of those statements that you made. And there are also 105 who got arrested. They’re on bail—okay some of them—are on bail, but they’re still in trouble because of statements that you planted into Mabunu’s mouth.
Pardon: No. Simba, you’re an adult, aren’t you? Don’t talk to nonsense (zvinhu zvisina basa).
Simba: How do you say “zvisina basa”? The young man is in jail.
Pardon: How can someone plant a statement with a politician, with ZANU? You know that Mabunu is a ZANU politician.
Simba: But you made those statements, and they’re untrue, and you agreed on that broadcast that they’re untrue.
Pardon: Which statements?
Simba: The statements of-Number one, the statement that Nyokai yeMabunu is Blessed Geza or is a spokesman of Blessed Geza. Number two, the statement that the demonstration doesn’t have money.
Pardon: Yes, the demonstration doesn’t have money.
Simba: No, no, no… Pardon that wasn’t true. There’s no demonstration that has ever needed money. And number three—well, let’s just go back—you put Blessed Geza in there.
Pardon: Because that’s what he said. Nyokayemabhunu asked us to raise money, I told you.
Simba: But you know that Blessed Geza has got nothing… Geza has got nothing to do with Nyoka.
Pardon: Yes, but Nyoka said he’s got something to do with Nyoka, with Blessed Geza.
Simba: But assuming that is true—that you heard that—now that you know it is not true, can’t you correct it?
Pardon: …
Simba: Because that is the reason why Nyoka is in jail. And you the whole issue here- The first charge relates to fraud. And you know what- It’s a money laundering offense.
Pardon: No, it is…
Simba: The first charge—was 25,000 rands. Is it not?
Pardon: Okay, I’m going to give you the charge sheet, but not the whole thing. The first charge relates to a conviction in Harare.
Simba: I’m aware of that. I’m dealing with South Africa.
Pardon: But what was the conviction for?
Simba: No, that is something else. It’s not my focus.
Pardon: He was convicted for… He was convicted for $2,600 which is not paid off after they had sold stands in Harare. That’s the first charge. Are you aware of that?
Simba: I’m aware of that there’s something in Harare.
Pardon: But you have to be specific.
Simba: I am aware- But he got trapped. He got trapped through money. It was through money. The very first charge inside the police station.
Pardon: No.
Simba: How can you say no, are you his solicitor? Are you his lawyer?
Simba: The lawyer did state there was an issue of $20…
Pardon: I sit with his lawyer every time before they go to court, they sit with me for an hour.
Simba: Pardon. I’ve got a recording here. I interviewed the lawyer; even just now, he’s called me just now. So I am in direct contact with his lawyer.
Pardon: I speak with his lawyer before we go to court so what you are saying, Simba. What you’re saying is…
Simba: The trap was relating to money, R25,000 that he was accused of taking by Sibanda, Shumba. Yeah, Honest Sibanda.
Pardon: That’s not true. It’s not R25,000, it’s R14,000.
Simba: Whatever. Let’s just assume it’s $10. Whatever it is,
Pardon: let me explain to you.
Simba: Whatever that is; Pardon, my point is—there was an entrapment that followed your statement that the demonstration needs money. So the young man got into trouble.
Pardon: Let me explain to you. Wait.
Pardon: Nyoka and Shumba had an agreement over sofas,
Simba: over money.
Pardon: over sofas… okay, 14,000— Nyoka took R14,000 of Shumba’s money deposited into a Capitek Account. That’s why I said let me give you a charge sheet what is written there.
Simb: I’m listening.
Pardon: everything you’re talking about entrapment is not true. What happened is— the money was actually deposited into the Capitek account you understand?
Simba: I am aware.
Pardon: When Nyoka landed at the airport, he had over a million in his bank account. You understand.
Simba: I’m listening.
Pardon: That million was withdrawn by Zimbabwe intelligence. I’ve said this before. So all this has got nothing to do with what happened. There were other issues which will come out in court on Thursday.
Pardon: What you are explaining there is not what it is.
Simba: So you know what Pardon quickly? Pardon. The issue of money that’s why I said, even if it’s $10, you’ve just told me it’s a million. That money—that entrapment…
Pardon: No, the million was already in his bank account.
Simba: Okay, whatever that is, Pardon. You stated on 20 March that the demo needs money. The young man was entrapped through money. And his solicitors.
Pardon: Yes but not after my statement. He already had the money in his bank. It was deposited into his bank, So, the one million was already in his bank account.
Simba: On 20 March?
Simba: So you’re saying on 20 March it was already in his account?
Pardon: I’ll give you the charge sheet. It explains the dates.
Simba: I asked you over exactly that. Okay, was the money in his account on 20 March?
Pardon: It was already in his bank account—because he was arrested on 14 March, on 14 April.
Simba: No, Pardon, so it’s later is it not? 20 March is a month before. When I contacted you, that time, and I was trying to hint you and you also objected to me posting that (announcement exposing and discouraging fundraising.), which I was willing to delete and I’m still willing to delete that post that I made on 20 March. If you can address.
Pardon: No, don’t delete Simba.
Simba: If you can address.
Pardon: if you want to make a fool of yourself, you must continue. I want to tell you one thing Simba I am not a player in this thing. I’m not a player I’m a journalist. you want to report on another journalist.
Simba: Pardon, but you made statements; but you made statements, look the people here, whether journalist or not. Are you saying that being are a journalist then you are then allowed to get 105 people arrested?
Pardon: No, no one got arrested because of me, people who got arrested were arrested by the dragnet.
Simba: You said that Nyoka is Blessed Geza. You said that Nyoka is Blessed Geza that’s what you said.
Pardon: Wait let me show you the man himself saying it.
Simba: Did you verify that? And assuming that is true and it’s not an edited clip—
Pardon: You want me to verify Nyoka’s own statement?
Simba: Whatever that is, did you verify, now that you know Geza has nothing to do with this young man, Geza has no spokesman.
Pardon: How do you know that?
Simba: I know that. It’s a fact. Geza himself has said so, he’s made it clear, publicly.
Pardon: Geza I am with him right here. Are you talking of Geza?
Simba: Where is that? Why don’t you just show me right now? Which Geza?
Pardon: I have Geza right here; Befriend me first and I will show you Geza.
Simba: You have him where?
Pardon: you yourself? You are in UK.
Simba: who told you I am in UK?
Pardon: if you’ve become friendly with me, I will show you.
Simba: Pardon. The young man is in jail. The young man is struggling.
Pardon: But Geza is with me. You’re talking of Geza who I am it right now.
Simba: pardon, the thing that we are dealing with right now – You are now veering into the arena of fraud, money laundering, and terrorism financing which the young man is set to be charged—and you planted words.
Pardon: how? How?
Simba: the young man is set to be charged Pardon you know that. And you made your planted words.
Pardon: he has been charged wait wait wait he has been charged. And I’m saying to you, Simba let me give you a portion of the charge sheet.
Simba: Pardon it is set to get worse. You have already seen the charges in Harare. The charges in Harare cite him by name—and over your own words that you made, that you planted on 20 March.
So how different.
Pardon: you don’t have the charge sheet.
Simba: I do have the charge sheet from Harare…
Pardon: So why don’t you wait so that I give you?
Simba: i will give you both.
Simba: How different is this from what you did for Uebert in April 2023?
Pardon: Ubert is your cousin.
Simba: What cousin? What are you talking about? There are 105 people in jail and you’re busy talking about a cousin. Assuming he is my relative—how different is what you have done on Nyoka Mabunu from what you did for Uebert in March, April;
Simba: What decoys do you talk about there? How did you make that up?
Pardon: What?
Simba: You said Uebert was never investigated. You posted a video in April 2023, exactly the same time this young man was set up. So how do you differentiate what you did for Uebert from this because this is relating to money laundering and terrorism financing.
Pardon: …
Simba: You made statements saying people are going to march into State House and remove Mnangagwa. Is that not terrorism? Were you not planting terrorism words?
Pardon: I can give you a recording of my discussion with Nyoka if you want.
Simba: how different is what you have done to get him into trouble, and the 105 people,
Pardon: what do you mean getting Nyoka into trouble, I am not responsible for what he has done.
Simba: what you did on Hubert Angel knowing that very clearly the statements you were making on your YouTube account were clearly false and misleading,
Pardon: Uebert Angel is your cousin.
Simba: Whatever that is let’s just assume that he is my brother, I am asking you how different is what you have done on Nyokayemabhunu?
Pardon: He’s your cousin.
Simba: Whatever that is even if I was to live the same house with Uebert, how different, is what you have done on this young man and the 105, to what you’ve been doing for Uebert Angel since that day when you contacted me and told me that you’re now working for Uebert and Mudiwa Hood? Tell me, how different is it?
Pardon: Simba, Simba, stop,
Simba: How different is it?
Pardon: Your hatred with Uebert is a personal matter.
Simba: How do you continue—more than a month now—after acknowledging that you were going to address those statements? You haven’t done anything. That could have saved this young man and the 105?
Simba: You even quoted Honest Sibanda—money-related, after you’d planted words into Nyoka’s mouth; Number one, that he is Blessed Geza.
Pardon: That money relates to 14 March.
Simba: But whatever it is, you stated…
Pardon: Simba, you’re trying; I said on 20 March and the money was transferred on 14 March.
Simba: You stated that Nyoka is Blessed Geza, did you not? Did you not?
Pardon: Simba, you don’t want to hear what I have to say.
Simba: No, did you not? Tell me, did you not?
Pardon: You don’t want to hear what I am saying. The money was transferred into Nyoka’s account on the 14th of March; I said my statement on the 20th of March… so you cannot collectively accuse me of money laundering.
Simba: Whatever that is, you planted words into his mouth that he is (Geza).
Pardon: I planted the words after the money was received.
Simba: whatever it is, whatever it is, I’ve got the notes I talk to his lawyers and it is not March when the money was transferred.
Pardon: your notes are wrong.
Simba: I was talking with Masiwa on that very day on 20 March. And there was no money in his account.
Pardon: but he got the money on the 14th of March. He got the money on the 14th of March.
Simba: why do you enjoy falsifying?
Simba: show me the evidence that it is 14th of March.
Pardon: I’ll send you the chat sheet.
Simba: show me show me.
Pardon: I’ll send you the charge sheet.
Simba: Send it.
Pardon: Wait Simba so that I can send you. You do not have data.
Simba: Send it.
Pardon: you do not have information.
Simba: Send it.
Pardon: I’ll send you.
Simba: Send it.
Pardon: I will send it.
Simba: How do you separate that? I have the notes. I talked to the lawyers. I spoke to Masiwa on 20 March. There was no money in his account. You’re not telling the truth.
Pardon: Show me the evidence. Send it.
Simba: Okay. And how do you differentiate helping Uebert—assuming even I live with him—from what you’ve done to this young man?
Pardon: You even lived with Uebert and you grew up with Hopewell. You grew up with Hopewell the problem is you’ve got hatred for your own family members.
Simba: whatever that you can say, how do you walk with a straight face Pardon, when you know that you planted words into Nyoka ‘s mouth? How do you differentiate from what you were doing for Uebert in March, April 2023, which you told me.
Pardon: Simba, you keep repeating the same thing. Are you a robot?
Simba: I have got your messages here.
Pardon: you keep repeating the same thing over and over again.
Simba: the messages relate to your activities
Pardon: Listen, listen. .
Simba: Look at this—14 January 2023: “Happy New Year my brother. I hope we can find more areas of cooperation in 2023.” That was you. Pardon: I thought you were person now. I see you’re not a human being. What really is your problem Simba?
Simba: Pardon, how do you differentiate what you’re doing for a money laundering suspect in 2023 from what you’ve done to this young man?
Pardon: the problem is you don’t like… Simba you don’t like being… you are busy investigating a journalist instead of investigating Mnangagwa.
Simba: how do you go on YouTube and to speak and claim that you’re reporting News, when you know what you’re doing is putting this young man into trouble, now you’ve continued for more than a month I spoke to you over a month ago; when you made communication that you were going to, you were going to reverse.
Pardon: I can assure you Simba, because the things that you are now doing now,
Simba: You said Pardon that you’re going to reverse your statement but up to now, you still haven’t done what is so simple and would’ve saved this young man, and the 105 you don’t seem to be moved at all. The 105 of being falsely accused, of leading a violent participating in a violent demonstration that you doctored with your own mouth on 20 March 2025. How do you continue doing this Pardon with a straight face?
Pardon: Simba, I am about to go live let us wrap up.
Simba: without, without, continuing your work for Uebert Angel, to cover up for his money laundering that you started in 2023?
Pardon: You mean your cousin?
Simba: how do you do that? How do you do that to tell me?
Pardon: you mean your cousin? Simba, I need to go LIVE right now right?
Simba: how do you do that? How do you do that? And how do you say that you have not been helping you Uebert? You haven’t deleted. So why haven’t you deleted this post? You know that this is not true that there were decoys why haven’t you deleted this post then, if you weee not paid by Uebert?
Pardon: Let’s talk on a.
Simba: how come you haven’t deleted your post Pardon Gambakwe, how come you haven’t deleted the post that you made to cover up for Uebert Angel’s money laundering?
Pardon: I don’t delete my posts.
Simba: This post that that claimed here, that Al Jazeera fell for Zimbabwe intelligence decoys; That was even denied by the CIO, by the Zimbabwe intelligence. So how?
Pardon: I don’t delete my post because when I make a post, I never deleted it
Simba: but you know that it is false. You know that it is false. the CIO were clear, even the Zimbabwe Intelligence rubbished your post, and they presented evidence, and Uebert Angel himself paid money; he paid money get this post and other done.
Pardon: Who?
Simba: Uebert Angel paid money.
Pardon: Who?
Simba: Uebert Angel paid money. Do you want me to show you the bank transfer?
Pardon: Send, send.
Simba: I will show you the bank account transfers, why are you evading? I will show you the bank transfers.
Pardon: Simba, don’t talk nonsense.
Simba: you were telling me that you’re not aware that they were bank account transfers right there in South Africa, and you were involved.
Pardon: Send. Send my bank account.
Simba: so keep quiet and I will show you the payments that were made.
Pardon: how do you show me on the voice note? Simba, how do you show me on a voice note?
Simba: before you made this video,
Pardon: how do you show me something on a voice call?
Simba: I will show you right now, I can do a video call, let me share the video straight away right now. Let me share,
Pardon: no but you talk about, I want to go live now, it is 10 o’clock. I’ve got actual work to do
Simba:,Let me share the video right now, why are you running away?
Pardon: No, no, no.
Simba: You’re running away. Let me share the video. Why are you running away from video evidence of payments? You’re claiming money was not paid. I’ll show you money that was paid by Uebert Angel. How do you deny you participated in money laundering? How dodo you deny?
Pardon: Simba let me be civil. Let me go live to my LIVE, I will talk to you another time.
Simba: how do you deny that you participated in Money laundering?
Pardon: Simba, I want to go live in my channel.
Simba: How do you deny.
Simba: You can go LIVE. You need to call me, Pardon. Because this is not a small thing you know. And you know me Pardon I am not doing this for news. II’m doing this for justice. I’m doing this for justice, because Pardon, you made statements that have gotten over 105 people in trouble including Nyoka, 106 now, and you know that these statements are connected, to your work for Uebert Angel.
Pardon: We are going nowhere. Let me go live. Simba: you can go and you will need to set an appointment okay? I hope you’re going to set an appointment and I will go through the bank account transfer that you have just said that you don’t want to hear.
Pardon: Simba, do you know that I don’t have to talk to you?
Simba: Thank you very much. You can cut the phone..
Pardon: I don’t have to talk to you and if I want, I can just ignore you
Simba: very much you can actually cut the phone and you just go. I will be happy.
You have said that you don’t want to see the bank account transfer I will reveal.
Pardon: Simba, send the bank account over.
Simba: let’s cut the phone let’s cut the phone.
Pardon: I’ve never been paid by anyone in my whole life.
Simba: You’re saying Uebert Angel didn’t pay money to put up this whole script? You’re saying Uebert Angel didn’t pay money to put this whole script? I have got the bank account transfer and I will show.
Pardon: Simba, you keep repeating the same thing over and over we are not getting anywhere.
Simba: and right now you’re telling me that you are running away, you can go.
You can cut the phone. I’ll be happy. You said you don’t want to see the bank transfers. I will reveal the transfers.
Simba: You are saying that Uebert Angel didn’t pay money to put up this decoy script about intelligence decoys?. I have got the bank transfers and I will show. And I’m not stopping. This is going to go very far. You can cut the phone if you want .
Pardon: Talk Mnangagwa stories; Mnangagwa is killing people and you’re busy with nonsense.
Simba: If you want then you can set an appointment when you want. But I’m not stopping, Pardon. Thank you.
By A Correspondent – Celebrated Kenyan author and academic Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o has died at the age of 87.
Regarded as a titan of African literature, Ngũgĩ’s career spanned over six decades. He chronicled Kenya’s journey from colonial rule to independence, using his pen to challenge both colonial and post-colonial regimes. His fearless commitment to writing in African languages—especially Kikuyu—cemented his legacy as a literary revolutionary.
Born James Thiong’o Ngũgĩ in 1938 in colonial Kenya, Ngũgĩ’s early life was shaped by the brutality of British repression during the Mau Mau uprising. His brother was shot by colonial soldiers, and his village was razed. These experiences heavily influenced his early works.
Ngũgĩ’s literary journey took off after he shared the manuscript of his first novel Weep Not, Child with Chinua Achebe at Makerere University. The novel, published in 1964, was the first major English-language novel by an East African writer. He soon published The River Between, A Grain of Wheat, and Petals of Blood—the last of which criticized Kenya’s new elite.
In 1977, Ngũgĩ abandoned English for Kikuyu and was imprisoned for co-writing a politically charged play. He famously wrote his first Kikuyu novel, Devil on the Cross, on toilet paper while jailed.
Exiled for over two decades, he taught at leading universities in the US, including Yale and UC Irvine. Despite enduring jail, exile, cancer, and a brutal home invasion, Ngũgĩ remained an outspoken champion of decolonising African literature.
His seminal work Decolonising the Mind challenged African writers to abandon colonial languages. He had nine children, including author Mukoma wa Ngũgĩ.
Though tipped for the Nobel Prize many times, he never won. Still, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o leaves behind a legacy that reshaped African storytelling forever.
By A Correspondent-President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared the tragic road accident near Sebakwe River, which claimed 12 lives on Tuesday, 27 May, a national disaster.
The fatal crash occurred just a few kilometres from the President’s private property, Precabe Farm, situated outside Kwekwe in the Midlands Province. The Sebakwe River area, close to the scene of the crash, is a known traffic black spot that has claimed numerous lives over the years due to its treacherous bends and high volumes of cross-country traffic.
Sebakwe River is a significant watercourse in central Zimbabwe, straddling the boundary between the Mashonaland West and Midlands provinces. It not only supports agricultural activities around President Mnangagwa’s sprawling Precabe Farm but also serves as a vital source of irrigation and livestock water for surrounding farming communities. The region has witnessed increasing vehicular traffic, particularly haulage trucks transporting fuel and agricultural produce.
Details of the Crash
According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the collision involved a petrol tanker pulling two trailers, a two-tonne truck, and a Nissan AD van carrying 12 passengers. Preliminary investigations indicate that the fuel tanker side-swiped the smaller truck before ploughing head-on into the AD van. The tanker reportedly dragged the van for several metres before overturning and crushing it, resulting in a horrifying scene of destruction and loss of life.
Presidential Condolences and Declaration
In a message of condolence, President Mnangagwa expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and extended heartfelt sympathies to the grieving families. He also acknowledged the pressing need to enhance road safety measures across the country.
“I learnt with a very heavy heart of the horrific traffic collision yesterday in Midlands which claimed twelve innocent lives,” Mnangagwa said.
“The deadly incident adds yet another grim statistic to the needless toll which reckless driving levies on our people and our Nation.”
The President commended the ZRP for deploying high-end technologies to improve traffic management but emphasized that more decisive action is needed to reduce the growing number of road fatalities.
“The duty for safe traffic conduct squarely falls on all road users, while the responsibility to call out reckless road-users includes the general public who should support our law enforcement agencies to tame what in essence has become a traffic jungle,” he added.
He announced that the government would take full responsibility for the burial of the deceased and provide support to the injured, who are currently receiving treatment in local hospitals.
“I have since directed the responsible arms of my Government to declare this traffic accident a national disaster,” Mnangagwa said. “This crucial legal step paves the way for Government to move in and take all-round responsibility for the interment of all those who perished in the accident, and for support to those hospitalised.”
Public Response
The declaration has been welcomed by affected families and the general public, though it has also reignited calls for the government to invest more in road safety infrastructure, particularly in accident-prone areas like Sebakwe.
As investigations into the cause of the crash continue, authorities have urged all motorists to exercise extreme caution, especially when driving along highways with known danger zones.