Themba Gorimbo: Zvigananda Heartless, Insensitive

By A Correspondent

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter Themba Gorimbo has spoken out passionately about the hardships Zimbabweans face living outside their homeland—especially in South Africa—describing the current period as one of the most difficult for citizens forced into economic exile.

In a heartfelt statement shared on Friday, Gorimbo said many Zimbabweans living abroad do so not by choice, but by necessity.

“Most challenging time is now for being a Zimbabwean outside of Zimbabwe. Especially in SA,” he said.

Referring to the rising xenophobic tensions, discrimination, and socio-economic pressures in South Africa, Gorimbo acknowledged the painful truth that many Zimbabweans face a harsh dilemma: endure humiliation and hardship abroad, or return to even worse living conditions back home.

“The truth is there is no choice really for people from Zimbabwe. Going back home is something they really want to do and live there. However, the reality is they’d rather be treated badly in a country that may give them jobs instead of going back home to Zimbabwe and be in worse conditions.”

Gorimbo also took aim at the Zimbabwean elite, criticising the country’s economic disparities and political patronage system, which he believes forces ordinary citizens into cycles of poverty while the connected few flaunt their wealth.

“What’s worse is the Mbingas / zvigananda will flash their money into your faces and remind you of your poverty daily,” he wrote. “If you’re not connected to politicians or somewhere in the government, you have no decent way of living in our beloved country.”

The UFC fighter, known for his resilience both inside and outside the octagon, acknowledged that there are still some “rare cases” of honest living in Zimbabwe, but suggested that those examples are the exception rather than the rule.

“There is of course rare cases of really honest way of living in Zimbabwe but that’s a story for another day.”

In closing, Gorimbo offered a prayer of solidarity to fellow Zimbabweans struggling around the globe:

“God bless and protect all Zimbabweans vari kuzama zama mu South Africa and even anywhere in the world without a choice but be there.”

Gorimbo’s statement has resonated with many on social media, sparking conversations about migration, inequality, and the urgent need for change back home.

Ruhanya Wants Chamisa Adopt Weak Chimurenga Structures Destroyed in 70s

By Alfred Jukwa

Prominent political analyst Pedzisai Ruhanya has come under fire after calling on opposition leader Nelson Chamisa to abandon his “movement” approach in favor of rigid, war-era structures that critics say were historically weak and prone to collapse under infiltration. Ruhanya wants Chamisa to adopt the same Chimurenga-style organizational frameworks that, according to historical records, were infiltrated, manipulated, and eventually crippled by Rhodesia’s Special Branch over 50 years ago.

In a series of strongly worded posts, Ruhanya blasted Chamisa’s preference for mass-driven movements over structured parties, describing it as a “politically fatal” error. “The continued aversion to institutions, structures, and collective leadership is fatal,” he wrote. “The idea of a movement is FAILED.”

But this advice has drawn sharp criticism, especially in light of historical evidence showing that these very Chimurenga-style political frameworks—rooted in rigid, top-down militarized structures—were fundamentally weak in resilience and easily breached by Rhodesian intelligence.

A Legacy of Infiltration

During Zimbabwe’s liberation war, organizations like ZANU and ZAPU operated through what Ruhanya today advocates: defined structures, central commands, and political-military wings. But it was precisely this centralized, hierarchical format that made them vulnerable to deep infiltration by the Rhodesian Special Branch and British MI6, ultimately leading to devastating losses—including the assassinations of liberation leaders Herbert Chitepo and Josiah Tongogara.

Mnangagwa Named in German Spy Files

Now, explosive revelations from soon-to-be-declassified documents held by Germany’s foreign intelligence service (BND) suggest that President Emmerson Mnangagwa was a key enabler in those very assassinations. The classified files—currently in the hands of a Hamburg-based investigative journalist—allege that Mnangagwa acted as a mole for British and Rhodesian intelligence during the 1970s liberation struggle.

According to the BND, Mnangagwa leaked critical information about Chitepo’s movements and Tongogara’s military strategies to Rhodesian operatives, including notorious CIO head Ken Flower, himself a known British MI6 asset. The files allege that Mnangagwa’s betrayals enabled the successful car bombing of Chitepo in Lusaka in 1975 and the suspicious truck collision that killed Tongogara in 1979—both of which occurred shortly before Zimbabwe’s independence.

The reports claim that Mnangagwa was rewarded for his espionage with the powerful role of State Security Minister in 1980, thus giving British intelligence ongoing access to Zimbabwe’s new government from within.

Critique of the Movement Model

Ruhanya’s nostalgia for Chimurenga structures comes at a time when Chamisa is attempting to forge a new path through a loosely organized, consensus-driven civic movement. While this model has been criticized for lacking durability and direction, defenders argue that it avoids the centralization that historically invited foreign infiltration and factional implosion.

Commentators warn that replicating “weak Chimurenga-style structures” today would be reckless. These rigid liberation war frameworks may evoke historical legitimacy, but history shows they were structurally brittle—unable to withstand internal betrayal or external manipulation.

Chamisa’s Position

In his response, Chamisa reiterated that “every cause needs a broad-based movement—a nationwide consensus.” He argued that “to unite a nation for a cause, you need something bigger than a party vehicle.” His statement reflects an attempt to modernize Zimbabwe’s democratic space beyond outdated, easily compromised models.

But political opponents and ex-allies alike continue to press him to formalize his approach, fearing that his reluctance to adopt structure might again lead to fragmentation—especially after the chaotic collapse of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) earlier this year.

Conclusion

Ruhanya’s call for Chamisa to adopt weak, legacy-style Chimurenga structures invites a dangerous contradiction: urging a return to frameworks that history has already proven were both susceptible to collapse and exploitable by enemies of the liberation struggle.

Meanwhile, the looming declassification of German intelligence files could completely redraw Zimbabwe’s political legacy—placing Emmerson Mnangagwa at the center of a betrayal so deep, it may change the story of Zimbabwe’s independence forever.

#DevelopingStory | #ChamisaVsStructures | #MnangagwaExposed | #ChitepoTongogaraTruth

UK: Zimbabwean Doctor Stabbed To Death In Front Of Daughter — Outrage Over Police Silence | BREAKING

DUNDEE, SCOTLAND — Saturday 5 July 2025

By A Correspondent | ZimEye | A Zimbabwean mother and newly graduated PhD holder has been brutally stabbed to death in broad daylight on South Road in Dundee, sparking public outrage and calls for justice from the local African community.

The victim, Dr. Fortune Gomo, believed to be in her 30s, was walking with her 10-year-old daughter around 4:25 p.m. when she was violently attacked. Despite emergency intervention by paramedics, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Police Scotland have confirmed the arrest of a 20-year-old man in connection with the murder but have so far made no mention of the welfare of the child who reportedly witnessed the traumatic incident.

Neighbour speaks to an officer at the sceneDr. Gomo had recently earned her PhD from the University of Dundee and was widely regarded as a rising star in her field. She was known for her dedication to community health and her passion for uplifting others.

In footage that has since gone viral online, distraught neighbours and members of the Black community express anger and frustration at what they view as police inaction and media silence.

“You can take my picture or record me—I don’t care,” shouted one local woman in the footage. “I’m speaking boldly because I don’t mind. This is about that innocent woman who was murdered, someone who was going to support the Dundee community. She was a doctor, just graduated with a PhD from Dundee University. She had so much to offer, unlike the person who killed her. We’re hardworking people… The media should be talking to us, listening to us, and sharing our story, but they don’t hear us.”

Another woman added:

“So I’m currently at the scene where a Black woman was stabbed to death today in Dundee. It’s past 10 p.m. and still no statement from the police. According to witnesses, she was walking with her 10-year-old daughter when two teenagers attacked her. If the roles were reversed, this would be on every front page by now. But there’s nothing online. No names, no justice.”

Despite the silence, Police Scotland Tayside has now released a brief statement confirming the arrest and stating that extensive enquiries are ongoing. Detective Superintendent Peter Sharp, who is leading the investigation, said:

“My thoughts are with the woman’s family at this time… There is no doubt this was a distressing incident for those who witnessed and attended the incident… I am satisfied that the incident has been contained and there is no wider risk to the public.”

He appealed for anyone with information to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 2283 of 5 July 2025, or to reach out anonymously via Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

However, critics say this response is too little, too late—and falls short of addressing the trauma and systemic neglect experienced by the Black community in Dundee.

Calls are growing for Police Scotland to provide an update on the wellbeing of Dr. Gomo’s daughter and to publicly identify the suspect, as would typically occur in other high-profile murder cases.

The incident has sparked a broader debate on racial inequality in the justice system and media representation in Scotland. Protests are expected to be organised in the coming days.

This is a developing story.

– ARE YOU ALSO A VICTIM OF HATE CRIME? – CONTACT ZIMEYE NOW +447426863301

Mnangagwa Caught on Camera Grovelling to Mystery Woman at ZESA Gata’s Funeral

Harare | 5 July 2025
By Farai Hove | ZimEye | President Emmerson Mnangagwa has been caught in a moment of surprising intimacy at the funeral of ZESA Holdings Chairman, Engineer Sydney Gata — caught on camera tenderly clasping hands with an unidentified woman.

The images, which have gone viral across social media, were captured at the late energy czar’s family home, where high-ranking officials gathered to pay their respects. What has shocked observers, however, is not the presence of the head of state, but a revealing image showing Mnangagwa seated on a cream sofa, his hand intertwined with that of a mysterious woman in white.

Continue reading “Mnangagwa Caught on Camera Grovelling to Mystery Woman at ZESA Gata’s Funeral”

ZDF Has Illegally Seized Our Ancestral Land

Gutsa Village
Gutsa Village Ward 16
Headman Msonza
Chief Chikwaka
Goromonzi

Dear [Air Marshal Jacob Nzvede

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the recent aquisition of our ancestral land by the Air Force of Zimbabwe located in Goromonzi District under Chief Chikwaka Headman Msonza ward 16, without any prior notice or formal procedures. As the rightful owners of this land, we are shocked and distressed by this sudden development.

The land in question has been in our hands for generations and generations we have all the necessary documents to prove our ownership. We are not aware of any legitimate reason or justification for the air force’s intention to take over our land. We believe that this action would not only be unjust but also cause significant hardship and disruption to our lives.

We urge you to reconsider this decision and follow the proper legal procedures for acquiring land, including providing adequate notice and compensation to the villagers We are willing to cooperate and engage in stakeholders meetings and discussions to find a mutually benefiting solution.

We request that you provide us with the following information:

  1. The purpose of taking our land
  2. The legal basis for this action
  3. The compensation or alternative arrangements being offered.The Army staying on site have been cutting fences without notice and stealing the fence as well.The fence is disappearing overnight. We wonder if this is happening in Zimbabwe or elsewhere.

We would appreciate it if you could look into this matter urgently and take necessary steps to resolve this issue amicably.Also consider our aged pupils, vulnerable families our forefathers graves and even our children who are going to school as we speak. Please feel free to contact us for any further information.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Gutsa Village Head
F.G.Ngoshi
Con> 0771 960 836/0773 617 696

Leaked Tagwirei Car Letter

🔴 BREAKING: ZANU PF Orders Sanitisation of Tagwirei Vehicle Donations After Central Committee Fallout

By ZimEye Investigations | 5 July 2025

ZANU PF has launched a sweeping “regularisation exercise” targeting motor vehicles donated in the name of the party — a move widely seen as an attempt to sanitise controversial vehicle donations by tender mogul Kuda Tagwirei, following his humiliating ejection from the Central Committee nomination process last week.



A memorandum dated 3 July 2025, signed by Secretary General Obert Mpofu and stamped at ZANU PF Headquarters, instructs all party organs to begin the process of registering and regularising vehicles donated to the party, either to individuals or structures, particularly those not validated by senior officials.

📝 The memo states:
“The ZANU PF Party is embarking on an exercise to regularise the use and registration of motor vehicles donated in the name of the Party to either individuals or associations.”

This development follows exclusive reporting by ZimEye revealing that Tagwirei had attempted to bribe his way into the Central Committee by donating vehicles to party officials ahead of the crucial meeting on 3 July. The donations were abruptly blocked after Vice President Constantino Chiwenga intervened, leading to a closed-door confrontation with President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

❗ An analyst told ZimEye:
“This is damage control. These vehicles were already handed out, but now the party is scrambling to legitimise them retroactively to avoid a bigger scandal.”

🛑 Party Now Cracking Down on Unsanctioned Asset Infiltration

The memo cites Section 76 of the ZANU PF Constitution, warning that donations made without validation from the Secretary General, Treasurer General, or National Secretary for Transport will now be subject to seizure or re-registration.

Party members have until 31 July 2025 to surrender such vehicles for vetting.

🛑 The second page warns:
“Motor vehicles bearing ZANU PF insignia, name, flag or symbols without express authority from the Party” must be surrendered for regularisation.

🎯 Chiwenga’s Reform Push Gains Ground

The directive is widely interpreted as a purge of Tagwirei’s influence, coinciding with Chiwenga’s “Zvigananda” anti-corruption doctrine. Tagwirei, a known financier of Mnangagwa’s campaigns, has faced growing resistance within the party over attempts to bypass internal procedures.

A senior party official told ZimEye:
“We are no longer in 2018. The party is now under strict discipline. No one can use money to buy their way into power anymore — not even Tagwirei.”

⚠️ What This Means
• Tagwirei’s vehicle gifts are under review.
• Mnangagwa’s authority is again undermined by internal backlash.
• The ZANU PF leadership is signalling a crackdown on illicit influence.
• The car donation saga exposes deep fractures in the ruling elite.

This is a developing story.

JUST IN: Gata Declared National Hero

By A Correspondent-ZESA Holdings executive chairperson, Sydney Gata has been declared a national hero and is set to be buried at the National Heroes Acre on Wednesday.

Gata passed away in Harare on Thursday after a short illness.
He was 79.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Ambassador Raphael Faranisi confirmed the latest development to The Herald Online.

Gata, from Mutema communal lands under Chief Mutema, was not only a towering technocrat but also a close ally of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Married to Mnangagwa’s second wife, Gata operated at the heart of Zimbabwe’s patronage networks, often leveraging his proximity to power to secure personal and family interests.
Despite holding prestigious posts—ZESA CEO in the 1980s and 1990s, Executive Chairman from 2019, and international advisory roles—his career was tainted by accusations of looting public resources, nepotism, and abuse of office. Under his watch, Zimbabwe’s energy crisis worsened, with rolling blackouts and ballooning debt becoming the norm, while he lived in luxury and retained power.
In his home constituency of Mutema-Musikavanhu, locals accuse Gata of imposing his wife, Angeline Gata, as MP and using his influence to dominate local politics. Her candidacy divided ZANU-PF structures, and critics say the couple used fear and state resources to suppress dissent.
During the June 14 by-election in Ward 5, over 1,200 voters were “assisted” under suspicious claims of illiteracy—many reportedly being teachers and civil servants. This, locals say, was political coercion disguised as support.
Gata was also accused of displacing villagers for personal land expansion, further alienating communities. Many in Chipinge feared confronting him, citing his deep ties to Mnangagwa and the resulting political protection.
Despite a few voices praising his developmental contributions, including the proposed Gazaland University, the broader view in Chipinge is that Gata embodied the worst excesses of Zimbabwe’s post-independence elite—abuse of power, political gatekeeping, and economic exclusion.

Mnangagwa Declares Own Relative Sydney Gata A National Hero

Tinashe Sambiri

Zanu PF leader President Emmerson Mnangagwa has controversially declared the late ZESA Holdings Executive Chairperson, Dr. Sydney Gata, a national hero.

Dr. Gata, who passed away in Harare on Thursday after a short illness at the age of 79, will be laid to rest at the National Heroes Acre on Wednesday.

The announcement was confirmed by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Ambassador Raphael Faranisi.

Mnangagwa, who is related to the late technocrat, paid glowing tribute during a statement on Saturday, saying, “Dr. Gata was a visionary leader in the energy sector. His dedication to public service and development of critical infrastructure deserves national recognition. We have lost a committed patriot.”

Critics, however, have raised eyebrows over the declaration, pointing to Gata’s familial ties to the president and a controversial tenure at the helm of ZESA, marred by allegations of nepotism and mismanagement. One Harare resident said on condition of anonymity, “We don’t dispute that Gata served, but many people are asking if this is a reward based on merit or bloodlines.”

Another ZESA employee, speaking anonymously, added: “He had his achievements, yes, but there were serious issues at ZESA. Declaring him a hero will not sit well with everyone.”

Despite the controversy, preparations are already underway for the burial at the National Heroes Acre. State media has since begun running tributes praising Gata’s contribution to the energy sector, particularly during the early years of Zimbabwe’s independence.

Fluminense Edge Al Hilal 2-1, Advance to FIFA Club World Cup Semifinals

Sports Correspondent

In a thrilling quarterfinal match at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, Fluminense secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Al Hilal at the Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida.

This win marks a significant milestone for the Brazilian side, as they become the first team to advance to the semifinals of the tournament.

The match began with a moment of brilliance from Matheus Martinelli, who scored a precise strike in the 40th minute to give Fluminense a well-deserved 1-0 halftime lead.

Al Hilal responded quickly in the second half, with Marcos Leonardo capitalizing on a defensive lapse to level the score in the 51st minute.

However, the decisive moment came in the 70th minute when substitute Hércules delivered a composed finish to restore Fluminense’s lead. The Brazilian side held firm in the closing stages, repelling Al Hilal’s attempts to equalize and securing a vital 2-1 win.

With this victory, Fluminense now awaits the winner of the Chelsea vs Palmeiras clash in the semifinals, which promises to be a thrilling showdown. The Brazilian side’s resilience and tactical prowess have earned them a spot in the next round, and they will look to continue their fairy-tale run in the tournament .

Tagwirei Unstoppable, Claims Killer Zivhu

By A Correspondent

Controversial Zanu PF politician Killer Zivhu has declared that business mogul Kudakwashe Tagwirei is an unstoppable force in Zimbabwean politics, despite internal resistance within the ruling party.

Tagwirei’s bid to join the Zanu PF Central Committee was reportedly blocked by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, amid concerns over the businessman’s growing influence.

Sources within the party suggest that Tagwirei’s political rise has created visible tensions at the top.

But Zivhu, never one to shy away from controversy, came out swinging in defence of Tagwirei on Thursday.

“This guy is UNSTOPPABLE! Many rely on his mercy, and he’s a proven goal-getter,” Zivhu wrote. “No one, not even Chivayo, can stop his mission. He can mobilize 3/4 of the country in 72 hours. We can criticize him all night, but at dawn, we’ll still face reality.”

Zivhu’s comments have reignited debate over Tagwirei’s role in both politics and the economy, with critics warning that his unchecked influence signals the deep entanglement of business and political power in Zimbabwe.

Despite growing factional tensions, Zivhu’s statement signals that Tagwirei still commands significant loyalty within the party’s ranks.

I Am Better Than Geza, Claims Tshabangu

By A Correspondent

Controversial Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) self-imposed Secretary General Sengezo Tshabangu has stirred outrage after launching a brazen attack on war veteran and outspoken government critic Blessed Geza, claiming he is more effective in challenging the Emmerson Mnangagwa regime.

Tshabangu, widely viewed as a Zanu PF proxy used to destabilize the opposition, made the comments in a statement on Thursday that many critics have slammed as both disrespectful and delusional.

“This old man [Geza] is useless. As opposition in Zimbabwe, we will make sure that we remove Zanu and its useless people from power,” Tshabangu said.

The statement has drawn a swift backlash, especially given that Geza — unlike Tshabangu — has consistently challenged the Mnangagwa administration without being linked to any suspicious political maneuvering. Notably, Geza is credited with frustrating the controversial “Mnangagwa 2030” presidential ambition campaign, a feat Tshabangu has never come close to achieving.

Political analysts and CCC supporters have dismissed Tshabangu’s remarks as the desperate rhetoric of a man propped up by Zanu PF to weaken the opposition from within.

“Anyone who believes Tshabangu represents real opposition is either naïve or complicit. The man has been front and center in recalling elected MPs to give Zanu PF an edge — and now he dares insult a real patriot like Geza,” said one online user.

Observers say Tshabangu’s public statements often mirror Zanu PF talking points, leading many to question his credibility and allegiance.

Despite the backlash, Tshabangu has doubled down on his claims, positioning himself as a key figure in what he calls the “real opposition,” even as his actions continue to undermine the democratic movement in Zimbabwe.

Tshabangu Demands Dialogue With Advocate Nelson Chamisa

By Tinashe Sambiri

Embattled Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Secretary General Sengezo Tshabangu, whose political credibility continues to spiral amid accusations of being a Zanu PF enabler, has made a public plea for dialogue with the party’s former leader, Advocate Nelson Chamisa.

Tshabangu, whose role in recalling elected CCC MPs helped tilt power in favour of Zanu PF, is now calling for unity talks — a move many see as a desperate attempt to revive his shattered image.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Tshabangu said:

“Without a clear plan and roadmap, ambiguity won’t take us anywhere. As Zimbabwe’s opposition, our solution lies in dialogue — sitting at a round table to discuss differences and unite with one voice.

Anything less is a waste of time as we’ll still find it difficult to beat Zanu PF.”

The irony of Tshabangu’s call for dialogue has not gone unnoticed. Many within the opposition and civil society believe Tshabangu is responsible for sowing division within the CCC at the behest of Zanu PF interests. His unilateral recalls of MPs and councillors created instability within the opposition and have left many questioning whether he is truly committed to democratic change.

Advocate Nelson Chamisa, who stepped away from CCC after Zanu PF allegedly hijacked its structures, has shown no interest in entertaining Tshabangu’s overtures.

“We are not under pressure to negotiate with anyone. They say they are in charge, let them lead,” Chamisa’s aide said yesterday, dismissing Tshabangu’s calls as political noise.

Analysts say Tshabangu’s latest move is a clear sign he is politically cornered, with his influence waning and public trust all but eroded. Calls for Chamisa to return and reconstitute a new, independent movement have been growing louder, leaving Tshabangu isolated within a fractured opposition.

While Tshabangu insists on dialogue as a path forward, many Zimbabweans continue to view him as a symbol of betrayal — a man whose actions handed Zanu PF the upper hand and weakened the prospects of genuine opposition unity.

Zim Men Now Shunning Marriage Due to Economic Hardships, Survey Reveals

By A Correspondent

A growing number of Zimbabwean men are choosing to remain unmarried, with many citing harsh economic conditions and shifting societal expectations as major deterrents, according to the latest 2025 Zimbabwe Demographic and Health Survey (ZDHS).

The survey — conducted by the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (Zimstat) in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Child Care — revealed that 45 percent of eligible men in Zimbabwe have never been married, reflecting the effects of deepening financial strain and changing cultural attitudes toward marriage.

The ZDHS indicated that most young men feel overwhelmed by the pressure to meet traditional expectations of being providers, especially in a context marked by high unemployment and unstable incomes. In such conditions, many now view marriage as an economic burden.

The survey also found that traditional gender roles are increasingly being challenged by a society where women are becoming more financially independent and empowered. This shift has added to the complexity of modern relationships, particularly among urban youth.

One observer said, “How do I get married when I can barely afford rent or groceries? Marriage these days is a luxury.”

The data was collected against a backdrop of rising poverty, persistent inflation, and a stagnant job market — conditions that have left many Zimbabwean youths uncertain about the future.

The survey further indicated that Western influences, especially through digital media platforms, are reshaping how marriage is perceived. It is now more commonly viewed as a lifestyle choice rather than a necessary rite of passage.

As Zimbabwe continues to grapple with economic uncertainty, the ZDHS suggests that the traditional family unit is facing a steady transformation, with marriage no longer holding the same social urgency or appeal among men as it once did.

2008 Zanu PF Attack Victim Dies After 17 Years of Suffering

By A Correspondent

Takaendesa Chisese, a Gutu man who was left mentally unstable after a brutal 2008 political attack by over 200 Zanu PF youths, has died — bringing to a close a long and painful chapter of suffering and neglect.

Chisese, once known as a hardworking and devoted family man, never recovered after the violent invasion of his home at the height of Zimbabwe’s post-election turmoil.

Neighbours say he lived the remainder of his life in torment, unable to work or support his family.

“He was never the same after that day,” said one neighbour, speaking on condition of anonymity. “They beat him so badly, and from then on, he was just lost. He would roam aimlessly, barely speaking. It was heartbreaking to watch.”

Another resident described his decline as a symbol of Zimbabwe’s unresolved trauma:
“Chisese’s life became a symbol of black-on-black suppression. We saw how politics destroyed not just his body, but his mind and dignity.”

Chisese died last night after 17 years of severe mental illness and poor health. Despite having once provided for his family and ensured his children went to school, he died a pauper.

He will be buried at Muwandi Village near Gonye Township in Gutu, with locals expressing concern over the dire state of his funeral arrangements.

“Even finding food for mourners will be a struggle,” one villager admitted.

Chisese’s death has rekindled painful memories in the community — a stark reminder of the silent, long-term casualties of political violence in Zimbabwe.

Tagwirei Co-option, Mnangagwa In Panic Meetings

By A Correspondent – President Emmerson Mnangagwa was forced into a flurry of internal meetings last week after the controversial co-option of his close ally, businessman Kuda Tagwirei, into Zanu PF’s Central Committee sparked internal dissent and unrest within the ruling party.

Tagwirei’s elevation, orchestrated by Mnangagwa loyalists pushing the President’s Vision 2030 agenda, bypassed the normal endorsement process by the Politburo—Zanu PF’s highest decision-making body.

Sources said the move was never formally approved, igniting quiet revolt among senior officials who view Tagwirei’s influence as emblematic of cronyism and elite capture within the party.

Tagwirei, known for his controversial control over key economic sectors through opaque deals, has long been accused of benefiting from preferential access to state contracts and financial support under Mnangagwa’s rule.

His appointment intothe Central Committee—a powerful organ that shapes party policy outside Congress—has raised alarm even among some in the President’s inner circle, who fear further erosion of Zanu PF’s institutional integrity.

In response, Mnangagwa convened a series of emergency meetings, including Thursday’s Central Committee session and Friday’s National Consultative Assembly, seeking to contain the fallout.

During his address, the President emphasised discipline, unity, and development, steering clear of directly referencing Tagwirei’s appointment. 

However, sources revealed that behind closed doors, Mnangagwa met with Vice Presidents Chiwenga and Mohadi, and party Chair Oppah Muchinguri to address factional concerns.

Observers say the meetings aimed to stabilise party structures ahead of the 2025 People’s Conference and maintain a façade of cohesion as internal tensions over succession and elite patronage simmer.

Tagwirei’s fast-tracked elevation reflects the deepening entrenchment of Mnangagwa’s loyalists—and the intensifying struggle over control of Zanu PF as 2030 draws closer.

Zanu PF spokesperson Chris Mutsvangwa who is also opposed to Tagwirei’s elevation could not be reached for comment.

Chipinge Community Spits On Mnangagwa Brother’s Grave

By A Correspondent-The Chipinge community had no kind words for the late Executive Chairman of the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA), mourning the death of Sydney Zukuzo Gata, who passed away on Thursday evening.

Gata died at a private hospital in Harare after being admitted earlier in the week with chest pains. He hailed from the Mutema communal area under Chief Mutema.

Nationally, Gata was a towering but controversial figure—widely regarded as a key member of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s inner circle and a prominent beneficiary of Zimbabwe’s post-liberation patronage system.

He was also married to President Mnangagwa’s second wife.

While his career was distinguished by powerful appointments and international roles, it was also tainted by long-standing allegations of corruption, nepotism, and the misuse of public institutions for personal and political gain.

Resentment in Chipinge

Despite official tributes, Gata’s legacy in his home district is far from universally celebrated. Many residents in Chipinge remember him less for his philanthropy and more for the power he wielded to influence politics, control land, and silence dissent.

Known locally as Chigananda, Gata was accused of using his proximity to Mnangagwa and his tribal identity to dominate the Mutema–Musikavanhu constituency, where his wife serves as the area’s MP and Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education.

In Ward 5, Gata was accused of displacing villagers through controversial land takeovers. During the June 14 by-election in the ward, activists allegedly loyal to Gata and his wife reportedly harassed voters, with over 1,200 people being “assisted” to vote under the pretext of illiteracy—an improbable claim that reportedly included qualified teachers.

Many viewed the imposition of his wife as a political candidate as undemocratic, and her presence deepened divisions within ZANU-PF. Locals say few dared to speak against the Gata family, citing fear of political reprisals and their close links to the presidency.

A Career of Firsts and Controversies

Dr. Gata’s career trajectory was remarkable. He was the first Black General Manager of the Electricity Supply Commission (ESC), serving from 1981 to 1985. He later became ZESA’s Chief Executive Officer and board member during the late 1980s and 1990s. His controversial reappointment as Executive Chairman in 2019 was met with public skepticism as ZESA grappled with worsening load shedding and financial mismanagement.

Internationally, Gata held respected positions, including a term as Deputy Chair of the Studies Committee of the World Energy Council from 1992 to 1994. He also served in advisory roles with the African Development Bank and Integrated Energy Systems Limited (UK).

A Divided Mourning

Though many in Chipinge were deeply critical of his legacy, others mourned him as a son of the soil who never severed ties with his roots.

Ward 23 Councillor Shingai Gapara said all local activities had been suspended to honor the Gata family.

“In honoring his legacy and respecting the Gata family, we have suspended all gatherings and programs in Ward 23 of Chipinge Rural. May we find strength in our collective grief and support one another during this difficult period,” he said.

Community activist Oliver Chikumba, who broke the news of Gata’s death, remembered him warmly:

“The giant has fallen. A man of few words and more action. The nation has been robbed. Dr. Engineer Sydney Zukuzo Gata—your legacy will forever be cherished. Rest in power, Mutape.”

Academic and consultant Dr. Robbert Matikiti called him “a hero who has left behind a good legacy,” while members of the United Church of Christ in Zimbabwe (UCCZ) also paid tribute to his development work and spiritual leadership.

Gata was instrumental in championing the proposed Gazaland University (GU) project in Chipinge. According to Mr. Phillimon Mlambo, Chairperson of the GU Taskforce, Gata helped conceptualize an Agriculture Centre of Excellence and pushed for the project’s realization.

“Dr. Gata was one of our greatest advocates and cheerleaders for Gazaland University. In his honor, we are even more determined to make GU a reality,” Mlambo said.

Legacy of Power and Polarization

Dr. Gata is survived by his wife, Hon. Angeline Gata, their children, and grandchildren. Funeral and burial arrangements will be announced in due course.

As Zimbabwe reflects on a life that intersected power, privilege, and patronage, Chipinge remains divided. To some, he was a loyal son and visionary. To others, he symbolized a system of political control, economic exclusion, and elite entitlement that they continue to reject—even in death.

Defense Challenges Former RBZ Governor’s Evidence in Company Grab Trial, Insists Age Is Taking Toll on Him

By A Correspondent | ZimEye | Former RBZ governor Gideon Gono yesterday struggled to provide evidence against a Harare couple accused of grabbing his company, telling the court he tends to forget other events due to his age.

Clark Makoni and his wife Beverly Ndonda Makoni are facing fraud charges amounting to over US$100,000 after they allegedly grabbed his Valley Lodge in Manicaland, having forged documents.

Gideon Gono

They are appearing before Magistrate Stanford Mambanje.

They are represented by Admire Rubaya.

Rubaya argued that there is no strong case, suggesting the charges are baseless and politically motivated.

Rubaya argued that Gono is not the rightful owner of Valley Lodge, the company at the center of the dispute.

He said Gono’s reliability as a witness is questionable, citing his inability to recall key dates and details due to age.

Gono admitted under oath that he could not remember when the alleged agreement with the accused took place, stating only that it was sometime in 2017.

It was the defense’s argument that Gono has not completed the financial obligations required to claim ownership, undermining his legal standing in the matter.

Rubaya argued that the accused were managing Valley Lodge with Gono’s knowledge and consent, submitting profits to him as part of a mutual understanding.

“This arrangement was never formalized in a way that would support criminal charges,” Rubaya argued.

The defense pointed out that Gono failed to present any audio, video, or written evidence—such as WhatsApp messages—that could substantiate his allegations.

Gono also admitted he was not present at the meeting in Mutare where key decisions were allegedly made, making his testimony on those events inadmissible.

“Court records confirmed that the directorship of Valley Lodge remains unchanged, with the original owners, the Omars, still listed as directors,” the defense submitted, with Gono confirming the position.

The defense also highlighted that Gono could not name any witnesses to the alleged negotiations and had previously indicated a willingness to withdraw the charges, suggesting personal motives rather than legal merit.

Gono, whilst on the stand, read the document signed by him which identified Clark Makoni as the managing director of Valley Lodge operations, and Beverly as the financial director.

“The case is an attempt by Gono to extort money from the couple, leveraging his political connections,” Rubaya submitted.

The State alleges that the couple forged a CR14 form to appoint themselves as directors and accessed company funds. The defense maintains that no credible evidence has been presented to support these claims.

The alleged financial prejudice of ZW$137,736,500 remains unsubstantiated.

As the trial continues, the defense has successfully shifted the spotlight onto the inconsistencies in Gono’s testimony and the lack of concrete evidence, raising serious questions about the legitimacy of the charges.

The matter was postponed to July 11 for trial continuation.-ZimEye

Strive Masiyiwa Injects US$720 Million in Groundbreaking AI Project

By Business Reporter-Zimbabwean billionaire Strive Masiyiwa has committed US$720 million to a landmark Artificial Intelligence (AI) infrastructure project aimed at accelerating Africa’s digital transformation.

The initiative is being spearheaded by Masiyiwa’s Cassava Technologies in partnership with Nvidia, the global tech giant led by Jensen Huang, the world’s tenth-richest person.

The project will establish Africa’s first AI factory and marks a significant step in building the continent’s capacity in high-performance computing. Advanced Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) have already been deployed in South Africa, the first African country to benefit from the technology. Cassava plans to expand the rollout to Kenya, Nigeria, Egypt, and Morocco.

“Collaborating with Nvidia gives us the advanced computing capabilities needed to drive Africa’s AI innovation while strengthening the continent’s digital independence,” said Masiyiwa.

At the Global AI Summit on Africa 2025, held in Kigali in April—where Masiyiwa served as co-chair—he emphasized the importance of youth-led innovation, calling Africa’s young people “digital natives” who now have the tools to turn bold ideas into real-world solutions.

Cassava will integrate Nvidia’s accelerated computing systems and AI software across its network, using Cloud Partner reference architectures.

According to Cassava Technologies president Hardy Pemhiwa, 3,000 GPUs will be installed in South Africa by June, with 9,000 more to be deployed over the next three to four years across other strategic markets.

Masiyiwa underscored the long-term vision of the project:

“Building digital infrastructure for the AI economy is a priority if Africa is to take full advantage of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Our AI Factory empowers businesses, startups, and researchers to innovate at scale—without leaving the continent.”

Ranked as Africa’s 16th richest individual, Masiyiwa continues to lead efforts that position the continent at the forefront of global technological advancement.

Source: Online Reports

Tagwirei Tears Zanu PF Apart

By A Correspondent-A major rift has emerged within ZANU-PF following the failed attempt by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s faction to impose controversial businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei into the party’s Central Committee — a move that has divided senior leadership at the party’s headquarters, commonly known as Shake-Shake Building.

Sources at the ZANU-PF headquarters revealed that the Politburo — the party’s supreme decision-making body — firmly rejected Tagwirei’s co-option into the Central Committee, delivering a significant political blow to both the fuel tycoon and his top political benefactor, President Mnangagwa.

The Central Committee is the second-highest authority in ZANU-PF’s hierarchy, subordinate only to the Politburo. However, insiders say Tagwirei’s nomination was met with resounding disapproval, with only two of the 49 Politburo members — Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi and veteran member Omega Hungwe — backing his appointment.

Key figures including Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, Secretary for Administration Obert Mpofu, legal affairs chief Patrick Chinamasa, and spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa led the opposition, signaling deepening fractures within the ruling party’s inner circle.

According to multiple sources, this near-unanimous rejection was not merely a procedural disagreement but a pointed rebuke of Mnangagwa’s alleged efforts to tighten his grip on the party through shadowy deals and wealthy allies. The pushback also represents growing discontent over what many in the party view as creeping corporate capture.

This dramatic fallout came just days after Vice President Chiwenga reportedly blocked a proposed donation of luxury vehicles by Tagwirei to Politburo members — widely seen as an attempted inducement ahead of the vote. The rejection of both the donation and the co-option has emboldened a faction within ZANU-PF that is increasingly critical of Mnangagwa’s leadership style and reliance on business proxies.

The tensions boiled over when Women’s League deputy chairperson and cabinet minister Monica Mutsvangwa — wife of senior Politburo member Chris Mutsvangwa — publicly criticized the influence of Tagwirei and the President’s unorthodox decision-making structures.

Speaking at a party meeting last week, she warned against “kitchen cabinet politics” and the corrupting power of wealth, pointedly stating:

“We will not accept things that are decided at someone’s home,”
— a direct reference to Mnangagwa’s Precabe Farm, widely seen as a parallel power centre circumventing formal party structures.

She added:

“Hatidi vanhu vanofunga kuti vanogona kushandisa mari ku divider vanhu… If money was what kept someone in power, Ian Smith would still be ruling today.”

Her remarks encapsulated what many within the party now describe as a growing revolt against the monetisation of loyalty and the erosion of democratic processes within ZANU-PF.

Further revelations show that Youth Minister Tino Machakaire lobbied heavily behind the scenes, urging fellow Politburo members to block Tagwirei’s elevation. At the same time, Fidelity Printers chair Godwills Masimirembwa reportedly told close associates that he had been pressured into supporting the bid by Obert Mpofu, whom he described as his “political godfather.”

Crucially, the failed co-option was not deferred or sent for review — it was flatly rejected, with some Politburo members vowing never to legitimise Tagwirei’s inclusion in the party leadership.

Analysts say the episode marks the most coordinated and direct resistance Mnangagwa has faced from within ZANU-PF since taking power in 2017. Tagwirei, long regarded as the financial engine of Mnangagwa’s political machinery, now finds himself politically isolated.

More significantly, the pushback has cast doubt on Mnangagwa’s long-rumoured ambitions to extend his rule beyond 2028.

“This was a vote of no confidence in the use of money and shadow networks to run the party,” said one senior Politburo member. “The blackout on Tagwirei is the loudest rejection Mnangagwa has received since the coup.”

With ZANU-PF’s institutional structures now reasserting themselves, observers believe the battle for post-2028 leadership has begun — and that Mnangagwa and his proxies may no longer be in control of the outcome.

Developing…

Themba Gorimbo Refuses To Be Silenced By Zanu PF Hardliners

By A Correspondent

UFC fighter Themba Gorimbo has vowed not to be silenced by hardliners within Zimbabwe’s ruling Zanu PF party, declaring that he will continue using his platform to speak out on the plight of ordinary Zimbabweans.

“I love Zimbabwe. Ever since I started my career, I’ve always fought for something bigger than myself — to make history for Zimbabwe or simply to make people back home proud,” Gorimbo said. “I’ve always carried Zimbabwe on my shoulders.”

Despite his patriotism, Gorimbo said he cannot ignore the ongoing suffering of fellow citizens, both at home and abroad.

“Many Zimbabweans can’t return home because of numerous issues — lack of money, limited job opportunities, a collapsing education system, under-equipped hospitals, and a severe shortage of medical staff,” he explained.

Gorimbo revealed that he has received threats and been told to remain silent about the country’s challenges.

“I’ve had people tell me not to speak up. I’ve even received threats. But when I look at some of these people, I see why Zimbabweans are suffering. Sadly, 99% of those doing well in Zimbabwe are either complicit in or benefiting from the suffering of the majority — whether at home or abroad.”

“I’m not perfect, but I have a conscience,” he added. “I stand for people. Whether it works out or not, I will use my platform to speak out. Think what you want about me — I’m doing this because I believe it’s the right thing to do.”

He concluded with a message of hope: “Our callings are different, and so are our platforms. I just hope for a better Zimbabwe.”

Will Zim Eradicate HIV/AIDS By 2030?

Zimbabwe has reiterated its commitment to ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, with the National AIDS Council (NAC) doubling down on efforts to sustain life-saving HIV programmes despite shifting international donor landscapes.

Speaking during the third Annual General Meeting of the NAC held yesterday, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Child Care, Dr Aspect Maunganidze—represented by Chief Director Dr Stephen Banda—praised NAC’s leadership role in the national HIV response.

“NAC is our coordinating body for the HIV and AIDS response and plays a pivotal role in the execution of programmes addressing the needs of people under the Ministry of Health and Child Care,” Dr Banda said.

“Their mandate has empowered them to provide strategic direction, leadership and coordination of the national response to HIV and AIDS, resulting in a notable reduction in the overall burden of the disease.”

Zimbabwe has already surpassed the UNAIDS 2025 global HIV targets, which aim for 95% of people living with HIV to know their status, 95% of those diagnosed to be on treatment, and 95% of those on treatment to achieve viral suppression.

Dr Maunganidze added that the HIV response had broadened to include other health conditions:

“They have also swiftly integrated non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like cancer, diabetes and hypertension into their agenda, allocating significant resources to these interventions.”

The Permanent Secretary also confirmed that Zimbabwe will receive US$508 million under the current Global Fund GC7 cycle—funding he described as a vote of confidence in the country’s capacity to deliver high-quality HIV programmes.

NAC board chairperson, Mrs Nester Mukwehwa, reaffirmed the Council’s unwavering commitment to achieving the 2030 goal.

“Our focus remains on ensuring that people living with HIV continue to receive life-saving treatment and support without disruptions,” she said.

“We are also working towards sustaining our 95-95-95 targets and pushing beyond. The top priorities for NAC are to endeavour to achieve our target of ending HIV and AIDS by 2030.”

Acknowledging the decline in donor funding—particularly following cuts triggered by policy changes under the Trump administration—Mrs Mukwehwa said NAC had taken proactive steps to maintain momentum.

“One of the key adjustments has been the reintegration of skilled personnel who were previously supported under partners.

“We have made the decision as a board to absorb these staff into the NAC structure and payroll so that we retain critical expertise.”

She also highlighted the strength of Zimbabwe’s domestic financing model, including the AIDS Levy and continued government budget allocations, which have helped cushion the impact of donor volatility.

“These home-grown solutions have fortified the country’s ability to maintain momentum in its HIV response,” she said.

As 2030 approaches, Zimbabwe’s progress offers cautious optimism—but sustained focus, funding, and political will remain essential for the country to cross the finish line in its fight against HIV and AIDS.

Harare Man Sells Human Foetus As Beef

By A Correspondent

A 19-year-old man is in police custody after he allegedly tried to sell a human foetus in Harare’s city centre, falsely claiming it was beef.

According to a statement by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the suspect, identified as Stelly Marecha, was apprehended on Thursday, 4 July 2025, at the intersection of Mbuya Nehanda and Albion Streets.

Police reports indicate that Marecha found the foetus discarded in a black plastic bag inside a rubbish bin. Instead of reporting the discovery, he attempted to sell it to a 27-year-old passerby.

However, the potential buyer grew suspicious of the package and immediately contacted authorities. Marecha was promptly arrested and is now facing charges related to the violation of a human corpse.

Police have opened an investigation to establish the origin of the foetus and are urging members of the public with any relevant information to come forward.

Bosso Hit By Secret Payments

Highlanders FC Rocked by Corruption Scandal, Secret Payments, and Bitter Infighting

Bulawayo – One of Zimbabwe’s most storied football clubs, Highlanders FC, is in deep crisis, rocked by a wave of explosive corruption allegations, secret payouts, shady contracts, and internal warfare threatening to tear the institution apart ahead of its centenary in 2026.

Leaked information from insiders within the Bosso corridors paints a grim picture of a club haemorrhaging money and credibility, with top executive members accused of dipping into the till for personal gain—despite growing debts, unpaid bonuses, and players still owed signing fees.

“There is no executive resolution backing those payouts,” revealed a source familiar with the internal strife. “Only the treasurer is supposed to be paid after home games because they work with the Premier Soccer League on financial reconciliations. But somehow, others helped themselves—each pocketing US$80 per match.”

Even more damning, one executive member is alleged to have personally pocketed nearly US$3,000 in undocumented allowances over the past year—without any resolution or supporting paperwork.

“These guys campaign claiming they want to serve Highlanders, but it’s all about the money,” the source fumed. “The paper trail shows food and accommodation allowances paid out for the whole of 2024 with nothing to back it up. That’s why the auditors keep rejecting Bosso’s books.”

Conflict of Interest and Secret Deals

In what insiders describe as a “textbook conflict of interest,” one executive is accused of running a parallel business benefiting from club funds.

“He referred players to his own company for medical procedures and got paid thousands. Meanwhile, Division One coach Melusi Sibanda is still owed his winning bonuses, and players are waiting on signing-on fees. Yet someone in the executive got paid first—how does that make sense?”

The financial mismanagement doesn’t end there. A mysterious player was reportedly signed on a golden deal—including a signing-on fee and a residential stand—despite never making a first-team appearance. The player’s salary reportedly dwarfed those of regular first-team stars.

“Kaindu didn’t even know about the player’s deal. Someone in the office did that in secret. It’s not the player’s fault—it’s pure chaos. There’s even a player with two contracts, and now the club is stuck with a legal and financial mess,” another source confirmed.

CEO Row and Staff Reshuffles

Tensions have reached boiling point over the recruitment of a new CEO. A preferred candidate has been identified, but some officials are allegedly blocking the move, claiming his salary demands are “too high.”

Meanwhile, Chairperson Kenneth Mhlophe has announced a dramatic reshuffle: embattled finance officer Sihlalisiwe Mkandla is being moved to the clubhouse bar pending disciplinary proceedings. Mkandla, previously suspended, was reinstated by court order—adding more legal fire to the inferno already burning at Bosso.

Wicknell’s Windfall Arrives

In a rare moment of financial light, Mhlophe confirmed that Highlanders had received the first tranche of a promised US$1 million donation from controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo.

Here’s how the initial US$250,000 has been allocated:

  • US$109,000 – Clubhouse durawall construction
  • US$50,000 – Signing new players
  • US$57,000 – Clearing outstanding wages
  • US$29,000 – Settling the kit supplier debt

Yet even with this cash injection, concerns remain over financial discipline and transparency. Critics fear the money may vanish into the same black hole where previous funds disappeared.

Centenary Chaos

As the club approaches its 100-year anniversary in 2026, insiders say there is no official plan or strategy to mark the historic milestone.

“Can you believe that? One hundred years and not even a draft plan. Bosso deserves better. This club should be planning a global celebration—yet all we see is greed, secrecy, and infighting,” one official lamented.

What’s Next?

With allegations mounting and morale plummeting, calls are growing louder for a full independent audit and urgent reforms within the Bosso executive.

“Highlanders FC belongs to the people. This corruption must end,” a fan representative declared.

As the club’s loyal supporters look on in shock, the question remains: Can Bosso survive its own leaders?

AFM Pastor’s Son Controversially Released After Vicious Assault

By A Correspondent| The son of a senior AFM pastor, Titus Murefu, who was sentenced to an effective nine months in jail after being convicted of viciously assaulting a security guard at a Harare private school, was released from prison just a month into his sentence.

Phidelis Murefu was convicted by Harare magistrate Rufaro Panavanhu for indiscriminately assaulting Leon Musonza, who works at Destiny Achievers Group of Schools, which is located on the same plot as Murefu’s residence in Glenforest.

Phidelis is believed to have filed for bail pending his appeal against conviction and sentence at the High Court.

The court heard that the land in question is owned by a United Kingdom-based family, with part of it leased to the Murefu family.

On September 16, 2024, at around 11 AM, two real estate agents, hired by the owners who intend to sell the property, arrived to carry out some valuations. The property was wrestled from the Murefus.

The estate agents viewed the plot on the side occupied by the complainant’s employers before Musonza took them to the other side where they were refused permission by the Murefu family’s foreman.

The court heard that later during the same day, the complainant was in a guardroom at work when Phidelis arrived, banged on the door, and got inside.

Phidelis claimed the complainant had brought thieves to their side of the plot before indiscriminately assaulting him with kicks and fists all over his body.

The matter was reported to the police and the complainant was referred to the hospital for a medical examination.

Magistrate Panavanhu ruled that the State had proved a prima facie case against Phidelis, hence the conviction and sentence.

The Other Side of Sydney Gata

By Own Correspondent-The Chipinge community is mourning the death of Sydney Zukuzo Gata, the Executive Chairman of the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA), who passed away on Thursday evening at a private hospital in Harare after being admitted earlier in the week with chest pains. 

He was originally from the Mutema communal area under Chief Mutema.

Nationally, Gata was a powerful and often controversial figure—widely seen as a staunch ally of President Emmerson Mnangagwa and a beneficiary of Zimbabwe’s patronage system. 

His career was marked by allegations of state-sanctioned corruption, nepotism, and misuse of public resources.

Yet, in his home district of Chipinge, many remember a different man: a loyal son, a generous benefactor, and a warm, accessible figure who remained closely connected to his rural roots.

Ward 23 Councillor Mr. Shingai Gapara confirmed that all political and community activities in Chipinge have been suspended in honor of Gata’s passing.

“In honoring his legacy and respecting the Gata family, we have suspended all gatherings and programs in Ward 23 of Chipinge Rural. May we find strength in our collective grief and support one another during this difficult period,” he said.

Community activist Oliver Chikumba, one of the first to break the news of Gata’s death, offered a deeply personal tribute:

“The giant has fallen. A man of few words and more action. The nation has been robbed. Dr. Engineer Sydney Zukuzo Gata—your legacy will forever be cherished. Rest in power, Mutape.”

Dr. Robbert Matikiti, an academic and consultant, described him as a “hero who has left behind a good legacy,” adding:

“We will always remember his immense contributions. Hamba kahle, true Gazaland son of the soil.”

Despite his image as a political insider and controversial power broker, Gata remained actively engaged with Chipinge, particularly through the United Church of Christ in Zimbabwe (UCCZ) and local development initiatives. He was a key advocate of Gazaland University (GU), a proposed institution in Chipinge, and played a leading role in conceptualizing an Agriculture Centre of Excellence under the project.

Mr. Phillimon Mlambo, Chairperson of the GU Taskforce, said:

“Dr. Gata was one of our greatest advocates and cheerleaders for Gazaland University. In his honor, we are even more determined to make GU a reality.”

However, not all in Chipinge remember Gata fondly.

His close relationship with President Mnangagwa—earning him the moniker Chigananda—afforded him immense political and economic leverage, which critics say he used to entrench his family’s power. In Mutema–Musikavanhu constituency, where his wife Angeline serves as Member of Parliament and Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, his influence was both feared and resented.

In Ward 5 of the constituency, Gata is accused of displacing communities through land seizures. In the June 14 by-election for the same ward, a team of activists reportedly loyal to Gata and his wife allegedly intimidated voters before and after the polls. Over 1,200 people were assisted to vote under the claim they were illiterate—a group that bizarrely included schoolteachers.

His wife’s nomination as MP was also widely criticized as the product of political imposition, which many say deepened internal divisions within the ruling ZANU-PF party. Locals argue that few dared to challenge Gata’s power due to his tribal affiliation, political connections, and proximity to Mnangagwa.

Professionally, Gata’s resume was formidable. He became the first Black General Manager of the Electricity Supply Commission (ESC) from 1981 to 1985, later serving as Chief Executive Officer and board member of ZESA through the 1990s. His controversial reappointment as Executive Chairman in 2019 came amid a deepening power crisis and mounting allegations of mismanagement and corruption within the parastatal.

Internationally, he held senior positions including as a board member and deputy chair of the Studies Committee of the World Energy Council (1992–1994). He also advised organizations such as the African Development Bank and Integrated Energy Systems Limited (UK).

Gata is survived by his wife, Hon. Angeline Gata, their children, and grandchildren.

As Zimbabwe reflects on his complex legacy—one defined by both immense privilege and lasting local impact—Chipinge grieves not the powerful insider, but the village son whose memory endures in the hearts of many.

Funeral and burial arrangements will be announced in due course.

I am old to remember things- Gono tells court as he comes under scrutiny in fraud case

By A Correspondent| Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe Governor Gideon Gono in the late Robert Mugabe era has been accused of usurping his relations in political circles and within the law enforcement agencies in causing the arrest of a Harare couple which he handpicked to manage his businesses.

The ex-banker was testifying against Clark Makoni and his wife Beverly whom he accused of fraudulently altering his company documents to take it over.

Appearing in court on Friday as witness and upon being pressed to justify the allegations, he made a revelation that he was now forgetting things because of age.

The State alleges that in July 2017, Gono engaged the services of the accused persons to manage Valley Lodge, among other properties.

The State also alleges that the couple forged a CR14 form in which Clark appointed himself director and company secretary and Beverly as his deputy in Valley Lodge.

The couple describe the allegations as malicious and frivolous being driven by Gono using his connections in the law enforcement agencies.

This comes after it emerged that Clark Makoni was arrested twice over the same allegations after reports were made to the ZRP and ZACC.

The former banker made a fatal concession that he was now “forgetting” other details because of his advanced age.

This resulted in the defence led by Admire Rubaya questioning the credibility of his evidence as he had no knowledge of other details such as dates.

This came after the defence asked him the date he got into an agreement with the couple and only resorted to August 2017.

He was also taken to task to explain the terms of the agreement he went into with couple when he gave them the mandate to manage his properties.

Gono went on to tell the court that he was “withdrawing the age statement” as the defence was now exploiting it.

He was taken to task to prove the terms of the agreement after emerged that it was a verbal agreement with no supporting documentary evidence.

Gono went on to play the emotional card saying the case had caused him distress as a pensioner.

In his emotional card, Gono said he is retired adding that it is “sad the two had defrauded a pensioner” saying he was only surviving on NSSA payouts.

He said it is “painful” and putting pressure on him to be in court over the allegations.

It however emerged that the company does not belong to him and he is not a shareholder after the company documents presented in court showed that the Omar family are the owners.

He conceded that he is yet to be the legal owner of the company describing himself as the “lawful occupier.”

He said the agreement he entered with the Omar brothers said transfer will only be done if full payment is made.

While he tried to downplay his wealth in court presenting himself as a pensioner serving on NSSA payouts, it emerged that Gono owns 15 properties in Chivhu which were also being managed by the couple.

Government of Zambia Moves to Repatriate Lungu’s Body, Cites no Burial Wish in Will

Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha has filed submission in South Africa’s High Court , Guateng Division, Pretoria that Zambia’s government has a clear right to determine the type of funeral and burial place of the late former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu.

The Zambian Government has filed an amended notice of motion in the Pretoria High Court, South Africa, seeking the repatriation and burial of former President Edgar Lungu in Zambia.

In its submission, the government argues that the late President Lungu did not specify in his will how or where he wished to be buried.

It further contends that, as a beneficiary under the Former Presidents’ Benefits Act, it should be presumed that he intended to be given a state funeral in accordance with Zambian customs and traditions.

The state maintains that Mr. Lungu’s acceptance of benefits under the Act should be interpreted as an expression of his burial wishes.

Additionally, the government argues that Mr. Lungu was never disqualified from receiving those benefits, as outlined in Section 5(2) of the Act. Instead, it explains that his entitlement was merely suspended when he re-entered active politics, and that suspension ceased upon his death.

As a result, the state asserts that it regained the right to provide a state funeral, fully funded and conducted in line with national customs and traditions.

Details in Gata’s Death Emerge

By A Correspondent-Details have emerged following the death of Dr. Sydney Zukuzo Gata, the Executive Chairman of the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA), who passed away on Thursday evening at a private hospital in Harare after being admitted with chest pains earlier in the week.

Born in Mutema communal lands under Chief Mutema in Chipinge, Dr. Gata was a towering figure in Zimbabwe’s energy sector and a long-time ally of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. He was also married to Hon. Angeline Gata, the Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education and MP for Mutema–Musikavanhu.

Dr. Gata made history in 1981 when he became the first Black General Manager of the Electricity Supply Commission (ESC). He later led ZESA as CEO and board member during the 1980s and 1990s. He was reappointed as Executive Chairman in 2019—a period marked by deepening load-shedding, widespread power cuts, and continued decline in energy infrastructure despite significant investment pledges.

Though he held prestigious international roles—including Deputy Chair of the World Energy Council’s Studies Committee and advisory positions with the African Development Bank—critics argue his domestic legacy is overshadowed by his failure to stabilize Zimbabwe’s electricity supply.

Dr. Gata remained politically influential to the end, serving within a network of elites aligned with Mnangagwa’s administration, often accused of looting state resources under the guise of development

Tagwirei Learns Chiwenga Still Rules ZANU PF Succession Politics

Analysis Opinion:
By Desmond Nleya and Shelton Muchena | Here is an analysis of Tagwirei’s public humiliation yesterday from a school dropout and Dombodema villager’s point of view.

ZANU PF is deeply embroiled in succession issues, and a dark horse in the form of Kuda Tagwirei, who wields immense financial power, has been unleashed with the support of the President.

There have been rumours that the President himself does not wish to anoint a successor. However, all indications are that this is merely a sideshow aimed at sidelining the General. The irony is that the President was handed his seat on a silver platter by the General, and like all ungrateful human beings, he is now choosing either to extend his term—which he publicly denies—or to anoint Kuda Tagwirei.
And so, Kuda Tagwirei was catapulted into the Central Committee, and yesterday was supposed to mark the beginning of his journey to State House.

What happened?

Kuda Tagwirei’s unceremonious expulsion from the Central Committee meeting yesterday at ZANU PF Headquarters is perhaps the most vivid public display of the party’s deep factin recent years.

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga’s move to personally order Tagwirei’s exit—reportedly on technicalities around procedural regularities—was not merely a bureaucratic tidying-up. It was a calculated show of force.
That Chiwenga could eject Tagwirei, who is widely regarded as President Mnangagwa’s preferred front-runner and financial proxy, shows the Vice President’s considerable influence within the ruling party. It also demonstrates that he is prepared to assert that power in ways that publicly humiliate rivals. The timing and manner of the expulsion sent a clear message: Chiwenga is not a ceremonial deputy. He remains the man with the means—and the will—to discipline, even those closest to the President himself.

Crucially, this is not Chiwenga’s first decisive intervention in ZANU PF succession. From the liberation struggle, he was instrumental in pushing for Robert Mugabe’s inclusion in the leadership ranks. Decades later, he masterminded the military operation that removed Mugabe and installed Mnangagwa. Now, with the same steely resolve, he is signaling that it is finally his turn—and that he is not a push-over. This long record makes him arguably the most consequential power broker of ZANU PF’s modern history.

For those in the party who quietly support the General, the incident will be interpreted as reassuring proof that aligning with him remains a safe and potentially rewarding bet. The spectacle of Tagwirei being forced to leave, with no apparent protection from Mnangagwa, will embolden those who have been sitting on the fence or doubting Chiwenga’s capacity to check the President’s growing patronage networks.

Equally, this was a warning to the General’s enemies: he will not be sidelined or underestimated. Observers will recall that the ZANU PF HQ’s inner echelon—many of whom hold lingering resentments against Mnangagwa—might easily abandon the President for Chiwenga if it appears expedient. The Central Committee’s failure to preempt the drama by notifying Tagwirei in advance about his supposed ineligibility was telling.

The question almost writes itself: if this was truly about procedure, why was he not told before he set foot in the meeting?
Even more striking was the Politburo’s refusal to deliberate meaningfully on his co-option, with reports suggesting only two of 49 members voted in Tagwirei’s favour.

If that figure is accurate, it confirms just how much resistance he faces within the highest decision-making organs of the party. Yesterday was a potent reminder that the road to State House is very long—and that access to wealth and proximity to power do not automatically translate into unassailable political legitimacy.

Monica Mutsvangwa’s recent remark that “people can’t buy power”—a thinly veiled jab at Tagwirei—fits neatly into this narrative. It shows that the chorus of skepticism about his ambitions is no longer whispered in the corridors. It is being voiced from the podium by senior figures who sense the shifting tides.

While ZANU PF loyalists are attempting to downplay the incident as an unfortunate misunderstanding, the reality is more significant.

The General exercised his authority in a way that even the President could not, or would not, prevent. For Tagwirei, the lesson is sobering: yesterday’s debacle was a wake-up call that the presidency remains out of reach, and any illusions to the contrary have been shattered—at least for now.
Chiwenga’s messaging around corruption is another pressure point that will be causing Tagwirei and his handlers considerable anxiety. Branding rivals as corrupt has long been an effective weapon in ZANU PF’s internal wars, and the tactic appears to be back in full force.

Looking ahead, it is highly likely that Chiwenga, Chris Mutsvangwa, and other heavyweights in the top echelons of the party will begin to close ranks to frustrate Tagwirei’s ascent. They know that the time to neutralise him is before he consolidates more influence. Yesterday was the first salvo—a deliberate demonstration that no matter how deep his pockets are, Tagwirei will not simply buy his way to the top.

If anything, this episode has revealed the true state of play in ZANU PF: a party where the real battles are not between the ruling elite and the opposition, but among the ruling elite themselves. And in this battle, the General has made it abundantly clear—he will not be outflanked without a fight. After all, he has shaped every succession crisis since the 1970s, from ushering in Mugabe, to removing him, to elevating Mnangagwa. This time, Chiwenga appears determined that it will be his own ascendancy—and nobody else’s.

ZIFA Cracks the Whip: Three Referees Suspended Over Poor Officiating

Sports Correspondent

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has announced disciplinary action against three match officials following substandard performances during recent Castle Lager Premier Soccer League fixtures.

In a statement released on Wednesday, ZIFA said the suspensions were part of its commitment to enforcing professionalism, integrity, and high standards of officiating. The sanctions were issued in accordance with paragraph 21 of the Referees Code of Conduct after thorough assessments by match commissioners.

Officials Suspended:

  1. Referee Lloyd Mapanje
    Mapanje has been suspended from matchday 17 to matchday 20. His performance during the Dynamos vs Yadah clash at Rufaro Stadium on 19 June 2025 was deemed below the expected standard by the Match Commissioner.
  2. Referee Grace Gimo
    Gimo has been barred from officiating from matchday 16 to matchday 19. The decision follows her performance during the Green Fuel vs TelOne encounter at Green Fuel Arena on 14 June 2025, which fell short of acceptable refereeing standards.
  3. Assistant Referee Claris Simango
    Simango has also been suspended from matchday 17 to matchday 20. Like Mapanje, her officiating during the Dynamos vs Yadah match on 19 June 2025 was criticized for not meeting required levels.

ZIFA stressed the importance of match officials in safeguarding the credibility of the game, adding that referees must consistently demonstrate fairness, competence, and professionalism on the field.

“ZIFA remains committed to ensuring accountability while also supporting referee development through training, evaluation, and mentorship programs,” the association said.

The move has been welcomed by some quarters of the football fraternity who have recently expressed concern over inconsistent officiating in the local league.

Nico Williams Snubs Barcelona Deal…

Sports Correspondent

Barcelona’s hopes of signing Nico Williams have been dealt a massive blow after the Spanish international signed a shock 10-year contract extension with Athletic Club, effectively ending months of transfer speculation.

The 22-year-old winger had been widely tipped to join the Catalan giants this summer, with reports suggesting that personal terms had already been agreed. However, in a dramatic U-turn, Williams committed his long-term future to his boyhood club, putting pen to paper on a deal that will keep him at San Mamés until 2035.

Athletic Club confirmed the news on Friday morning, catching many off guard. The deal also includes a significant increase in his release clause—reportedly more than 50% higher than before—making it even harder for interested clubs to trigger a future move.

Speaking after the announcement, Williams expressed his loyalty to Athletic:

“When it comes to making decisions, the most important thing is to listen to your heart. I am in the place where I want to be, with my people. This is my home. Aupa Athletic!”

The announcement marks the second consecutive year that Barcelona have failed in their bid to land the highly rated winger, and tensions between the two La Liga clubs appear to be growing. Athletic reportedly raised concerns with La Liga over Barcelona’s financial capacity to register new signings, further fuelling the ongoing rivalry.

In a cheeky dig at Barcelona, Athletic Club included the hashtag #AthleticWIN in their official post, celebrating their successful attempt to retain one of Spain’s brightest young talents.

What’s Next for Barcelona?

With the collapse of the Williams deal, new Barcelona manager Hansi Flick will now have to turn his attention elsewhere. Reports suggest the Catalans could shift their focus to Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford or Liverpool’s Luis Díaz as alternative wide attacking options.

For now, Athletic Club celebrate a major victory off the pitch, securing their star man and sending a clear message to Spain’s biggest clubs: they won’t be pushed around.

Absent MP? Gutu East Electorate Turns to Defeated Candidate for Leadership

By A Correspondent

As questions grow over the whereabouts of Zanu PF’s winning candidate Zvarevashe Masvingise, it is the losing candidate, Gift Gonese, who has remained visible and active in Gutu East, winning praise from villagers for staying committed to development work long after the campaign trail cooled.

Masvingise, who won the June 14 by-election, has allegedly gone silent since his victory, with some villagers claiming he has “disappeared” and failed to return to the ground.

“We haven’t seen him since the election. It’s like he vanished. We’re beginning to worry about whether he will really represent us,” said a resident from Ward 12.

Meanwhile, Gonese, who came second in the by-election, is pressing ahead with community development projects, including water access initiatives, youth empowerment programmes, and agricultural support schemes.

Speaking on Friday, Gonese reaffirmed his commitment to Gutu East:

“We are reviving our projects in the constituency and this time on a higher trajectory.”

While Gonese lost to Masvingise in a three-way race that also featured Zivanai Nzvenga of the National Constitutional Assembly (NCA), he has refused to retreat from public service—prompting many locals to label him the “people’s choice in action.”

“Politics aside, we just want development,” said a villager in Ward 14.
“Gonese has shown us that he is still with the people, and that matters. He didn’t disappear after the votes were counted.”

Analysts say Gonese’s post-election engagement offers a refreshing counter-narrative to Zimbabwe’s political culture, where many candidates disengage from their constituencies once elections are over.

“This is what leadership should look like—service that isn’t dependent on a title,” said a local community development officer.

With Masvingise yet to publicly respond to the criticism or outline his post-election plans, some are beginning to question whether winning an election is enough, or if continued presence and service are what truly define political leadership.

As the dust settles from the by-election, all eyes remain on Gutu East—where the winner is absent, but the runner-up is leading from the ground.

Former Arsenal Midfielder Thomas Partey Charged with Rape and Sexual Assault

LONDON – The Metropolitan Police have officially charged Arsenal and Ghana international midfielder Thomas Partey, 32, with multiple sex offences, including five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.

According to authorities, the alleged incidents took place between 2021 and 2022. The charges were approved by the Crown Prosecution Service following a detailed investigation.

In a brief statement, the Met Police confirmed the charges and stated that Partey is expected to appear in court at a date yet to be announced.

The developments mark a serious turn in the high-profile case, which has been under investigation for over a year. Neither Arsenal Football Club nor Partey’s legal representatives have issued a public response as of Friday morning.

The Crown Prosecution Service emphasized that criminal proceedings are now active, and that all parties involved are entitled to a fair trial.

More details are expected as the case proceeds through the legal system.

Zanu PF Denies Tagwirei Was Ejected from Central Committee Meeting

By A Correspondent

Zanu PF has denied reports that controversial businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei was ejected from a Central Committee meeting after alleged intervention by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, insisting that his co-option into the party’s top decision-making body was merely postponed—not blocked.

Sources within Zanu PF claimed that tensions flared during the party’s Central Committee meeting on Thursday, with Chiwenga reportedly objecting to Tagwirei’s appointment. According to these insiders, the Vice President allegedly forced Tagwirei to leave the meeting, effectively halting his co-option.

However, Zanu PF’s Director of Information and Publicity, Farai Muroiwa Marapira, strongly dismissed the claims, describing them as deliberate distortions meant to stir division within the party.

“The co-option was not rejected,” Marapira clarified.

“When provinces nominate individuals to go to the Central Committee, the Central Committee then ratifies those nominations. What happened is that the Central Committee was simply not able to ratify these nominations because it had other pressing issues to attend to, especially those related to the upcoming conference. The ratification was postponed to a later date, and this is all that occurred. Everything else that is being said is conjecture and falsehoods.”

Despite the official denial, the episode has heightened speculation over growing internal tensions within the ruling party, particularly between different power factions linked to President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Vice President Chiwenga.

Tagwirei, a well-known ally of Mnangagwa and CEO of Sakunda Holdings, has been a key financier of Zanu PF campaigns in recent years. His increased visibility in formal party structures has sparked concern among some senior officials, who reportedly view his rise as politically intrusive.

A senior party member, speaking on condition of anonymity, said:

“Some feel that bringing Tagwirei into the Central Committee is turning the party into a business club. There are murmurs that Chiwenga and others want to draw a line between financiers and core political actors.”

While Zanu PF maintains that the businessman’s fate will be determined at a later stage, the controversy underscores the delicate balancing act the party faces as it blends corporate interests with political power.

The Central Committee, which comprises 300 members, is expected to reconvene in the coming weeks ahead of a major Zanu PF conference. It remains to be seen whether Tagwirei’s nomination will proceed smoothly—or if it signals deeper fractures within the party’s hierarchy.

Stampede As Masvingo Preacher Introduces “Bad Luck Remover Potion”

By A Correspondent – A self-styled prophet in Masvingo has triggered a wave of public excitement and concern after launching what he claims is a “bad luck remover potion,” with reports suggesting large crowds are queuing to receive the mysterious liquid, offered free of charge.

Isaac Makomichi, founder of MHD Ministries and an avid Facebook user under the handle “isaacmakomichiofficial,” has gained notoriety for his controversial teachings and unconventional spiritual claims. His social media page promotes ideas centered on male responsibility and marriage fidelity, but it’s his latest “spiritual breakthrough” that’s drawing headlines and skeptics alike.

Makomichi alleges that the potion has changed the lives of many, with several individuals claiming improved fortunes after using it. “I had been cursed with bad luck for years. Nothing worked for me until I went to Prophet Makomichi. Now my life is like milk and honey,” said one follower, Esau, who swears by the potion’s power.

However, such testimonials raise eyebrows. Critics argue that Makomichi is capitalizing on desperation and hardship, offering unproven remedies to a struggling population. There is no scientific or theological basis for his claims, yet the preacher maintains that unseen spiritual forces are to blame for people’s misfortunes.

“People work hard, but bad luck holds them back. Some marriages are ruined not by people, but by bad luck. And bad luck can be removed,” Makomichi asserted in a recent post.

Religious leaders and social commentators have expressed concern over the growing influence of such figures, warning that these types of “miracle solutions” often exploit the emotional and economic vulnerability of believers. As the crowds continue to grow outside his ministry, the debate over Makomichi’s practices—and the true nature of his potion—is unlikely to go away anytime soon.

https://www.facebook.com/isaacmakomichiofficial

BREAKING: Youth Minister Crosses The Floor To VP Chiwenga In Latest Sign Soko’s Now The New Sherriff

🛑 BREAKING NEWS: Youth Minister Crosses Floor to Chiwenga — Tagwirei Humiliated as ZANU PF Power Struggle Explodes

By Farai D Hove | ZimEye | In a dramatic turn of events that lays bare the intensifying ZANU-PF power struggle, a prominent Youth Minister has reportedly crossed the floor to Vice President Constantino Chiwenga in what observers are calling the clearest sign yet that “Soko is now the new sheriff in town.”

The explosive development comes just 24 hours after ZANU PF confirmed ZimEye’s exclusive revelation that fuel tycoon Kudakwashe Tagwirei was booted out of a Central Committee meeting — effectively blocking his controversial co-option into the party’s apex structure.

A senior official told ZimEye on Thursday evening:

“Harare and Bulawayo co-options were nullified by CC today due to failure to follow party procedure. Tagwirei (Harare province) and Mushando (Bulawayo province) — their co-options were nullified by the Central Committee.”

However, in an apparent effort at damage control, ZANU PF Director Farai Marapira insisted there was no rejection, claiming the process had only been postponed due to other priorities.

“The co-option was not rejected… the Central Committee was simply not able to ratify these nominations because it had other issues to attend to,” Marapira said.

But analysts and insiders are calling this a face-saving fabrication.

 

 

“If it was merely postponed,” asked one analyst, “why was Tagwirei called to the meeting in the first place? And why are Herald and ZBC completely silent?”

According to exclusive information obtained by ZimEye, Tagwirei arrived at the Central Committee meeting venue expecting to be confirmed — only to be shut out after Vice President Chiwenga intervened directly, demanding that the matter be withdrawn.

“Chiwenga was called. He told the President: this cannot go ahead,” said the source.

Senior officials Patrick Chinamasa and Munyaradzi Machacha were summoned. While the two deliberated with Mnangagwa behind closed doors, the President was ultimately forced to announce that Tagwirei’s appointment was “off the table” and that the matter would now be handled by the Presidium.

Insiders also confirm that Tagwirei attempted to donate luxury vehicles to Politburo members ahead of the meeting — a move that was stopped in its tracks by Chiwenga, who reportedly insisted the businessman was “not following procedure.”

The saga has exposed deep cracks at the very top of ZANU PF, with Chiwenga — long rumoured to be at odds with Mnangagwa — now visibly asserting himself as the party’s real power broker.

“This is the first time the divisions in ZANU PF have become so publicly visible,” said a political analyst. “The President has effectively lost control.”

A blistering list of internal grievances is now circulating within the party:
1. Tagwirei has been attempting to control ZANU PF using money.
2. Mnangagwa has shown alarming weakness in the face of Tagwirei’s wealth.
3. He previously introduced controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo to the international community — again via financial clout.
4. Questions are now being asked: if the President controls national resources, why is he being manipulated by people accused of looting?
5. His failure to defend Tagwirei on Thursday is being interpreted as a political defeat.
6. Tagwirei is reportedly Mnangagwa’s “Sekuru-cousin”, adding a layer of nepotism to the scandal.
7. The business mogul’s leap from non-member to Central Committee hopeful — skipping five structures — is seen as a total abuse of protocol.
8. Doubts are growing: if Mnangagwa can’t run his party, how can he run the country?
9. This internal chaos could open the door for opposition leader Nelson Chamisa.
10. Tagwirei’s failed bid was allegedly orchestrated by allies Matuke, Mavetera, Machacha, and Daniel Garwe — now facing internal scrutiny.

As the dust settles, the image of a fractured ZANU PF comes into focus, with Chiwenga clearly emerging as the new centre of gravity.

One comment circulating on social media today captured the moment perfectly:

“It’s increasingly telling that the General is in control. Many will cross the floor. Many will go mute.”

And with the youth leadership now reportedly siding with Chiwenga, the writing may be on the wall.

Soko, it seems, is no longer waiting in the shadows. He’s stepped into the light — and he’s calling the shots.

More to follow…

Mliswa Slams Tagwirei Over Zanu PF Central Committee Humiliation

By A Correspondent| Controversial independent politician Temba Mliswa has weighed in on the dramatic ejection of businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei from Zanu PF’s Central Committee, warning that the incident highlights deep-seated factionalism and exposes internal power struggles that risk destabilising the ruling party.

Tagwirei, a prominent businessman widely seen as a Zanu PF benefactor, was reportedly booted from the Central Committee on Thursday in a move that has sparked widespread speculation and political intrigue.

While acknowledging that Tagwirei’s removal was ostensibly tied to procedural issues surrounding the ratification of his co-option, Mliswa took to X (formerly Twitter) to criticise the “unfortunate” manner in which the expulsion was executed.

“This was a simple issue that could have been handled differently and avoided the current drama and conspiracies,” Mliswa posted, describing the abrupt decision as lacking the “measured dignity” that should have accompanied the matter given Tagwirei’s history with the party.

Mliswa hinted that the decision may have been made without the blessing of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, warning that “the premature action taken appears to undermine the President’s authority.”

He also raised concerns about the humiliation of Tagwirei, who was reportedly removed by security forces despite having previously been cleared to attend. “The decision to remove him through security smacks of unwarranted humiliation,” said Mliswa, calling the move “an unfortunate reality of factional divisions within the ruling party, if not personal vendettas.”

The outspoken former legislator drew parallels between Tagwirei’s ouster and political sabotage, suggesting that the vetting process that approved his initial appointment should have been respected. “Resistance at this advanced stage is tantamount to disregarding the will of the electorate,” he said.

Adding to the controversy, Mliswa pointed out Tagwirei’s influential role as a benefactor within the party. “It is no secret that Kuda has played a benefactor role for the party… His expulsion by those he has supported seems either parody or folly,” he added, questioning whether the move was truly about party protocol or motivated by deeper factional agendas.

The remarks by Mliswa come amid growing concerns that internal Zanu PF tensions are beginning to surface publicly, at a time when the party faces little external opposition but remains vulnerable to internal rifts.

Sydney Gata’s Death Exposes Nepotism In Mnangagwa Administration

By A Correspondent – ZESA Holdings Executive Chairman, Dr. Sydney Zukuzo Gata, has died, Vemuganga Community Radio Station reported on Friday.

The broadcaster described Dr. Gata’s passing as a significant loss to both the Chipinge community and the nation at large.

“Tineurombo ngekurashikirwa ndibaba Sydney Zukuzo Gata,” the station said. “Baba Gata aenda asi mishando yaakabata inoita kuti tirambe teiakarakadza mukuwo weshe ngemishando yaakabata Chipinge, nenyika yeshe.”
(“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Baba Sydney Zukuzo Gata. He is gone, but the legacy of his work continues to guide us in Chipinge and across the nation.”)

Dr. Gata, who led ZESA Holdings during a critical time in Zimbabwe’s energy sector, was known for his long-standing presence in the power utility. He was married to Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Angeline Gata, who is also the Member of Parliament for Mutema-Musikavanhu.

Community members and professional peers described him as a tireless public servant whose leadership left a mark on the country’s electricity infrastructure and energy policy.

“Baba Gata’s passing is not only a loss to his family but also to the energy sector and the people of Chipinge, whom he served with unwavering commitment,” said one local official.

While funeral arrangements and the cause of death are yet to be confirmed, tributes continue to pour in from across the political divide.

However, Dr. Gata’s death has also reignited allegations of nepotism involving President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Government sources allege that Molly Mayahle, believed to be Mnangagwa’s second wife, is the biological sister of Angeline Gata—making Sydney Gata the President’s brother-in-law by marriage.

This familial connection has long fuelled claims that Dr. Gata’s reappointment as Executive Chairman of ZESA was not based purely on merit. Despite controversies surrounding his leadership, including previous suspensions over alleged mismanagement, Gata was reinstated—reportedly on Mnangagwa’s direct orders.

Critics have pointed to Gata’s tenure as a clear example of nepotism within Mnangagwa’s administration, where family ties and loyalty are perceived to trump competence and accountability.

“Gata’s position at ZESA was never just about electricity—it was about political power and protection,” said a Harare-based political analyst. “His continued influence, despite serious questions around his management, exposes the deep-rooted nepotism in the current administration.”

As Zimbabwe mourns one of its most controversial yet influential state executives, the spotlight also turns once again to Mnangagwa’s inner circle and the growing perception that public institutions remain captured by personal and political networks.

Further details regarding memorial events are expected in the coming days.

Ex-RBZ Governor Gono Testifies Against Alleged Fraudsters in ZWL172 Million Property Dispute

By A Correspondent| Former Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) Governor Dr. Gideon Gono has accused a couple of orchestrating a fraudulent takeover of his company, Valley Lodge Pvt Ltd, valued at ZWL172 million. Dr. Gono took the witness stand this week in a case involving Clark and Beverly Makoni, who are facing charges of fraud, forgery, and misrepresentation.

In his testimony before Harare magistrate Stanford Mambanje, Gono detailed how the Makonis, who were introduced to him in 2016 by his children, were entrusted with managing his family’s real estate portfolio. Initially tasked with overseeing more than 15 properties in Chivhu, their mandate was expanded in 2017 to include the Mutare-based Valley Lodge.

“I entrusted them with managing both rental collections and property expenses. The understanding was that they would deduct an agreed commission and remit the remainder monthly,” Gono said. “But for months, no income was being remitted, which raised serious red flags.”

He told the court that investigations later revealed that the couple had allegedly manipulated corporate documents to fraudulently seize control of Valley Lodge. This included illegally altering the company’s CR14 form and changing signatories to the company’s ZB Bank accounts — all without the knowledge or consent of Gono or the legitimate shareholders and directors.

“The CR14 was corruptly altered, and Valley Lodge was effectively hijacked through deception,” Gono testified. “Neither I nor the legitimate directors — Ayoob Omar and Mohamed Hussein Omar — authorized any such changes.”

Gono explained that the company, Valley Lodge, was acquired through his investment vehicle Galwex Investments, which bought shares from Costick Investments, represented by businessman Ayoob Omar. While final transfer processes were still ongoing, Gono maintained he remained the sole shareholder and rightful owner.

Omar also gave evidence in court, affirming that the shares had been sold to Gono and not to the Makonis.

The former central bank chief said the fraudulent takeover caused him serious financial losses, estimating the prejudice at ZWL137 million, allegedly siphoned through unauthorized bank withdrawals disguised as salaries for the Makonis and their Ark Properties employees.

“Nothing has been recovered to date,” Gono said. “All I’ve received are apologies — apologies that do not erase the fraud committed.”

He said the incident has taken a personal toll, especially given his retirement. “This investment was meant to support me post-retirement. This fraudulent interference has been a source of considerable stress.”

Gono also revealed that in January 2024, the Makonis attempted to reconcile, offering to pay him back US\$50,000. A proposal was drafted in the presence of their respective legal teams, and even commemorative photos were taken. However, the deal fell apart after Beverly Makoni reportedly refused to sign the agreement.

The prosecution alleges that the couple forged documentation to list themselves as directors of Valley Lodge and misrepresented their status to financial institutions to gain unauthorized access to company accounts. They are accused of illegally embezzling over ZWL172 million.

The matter has been postponed to July 11. Investigating officer Eric Chacha from the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) is expected to testify next.

Total Power Blackout Hits Zimbabwe

By A Correspondent

Zimbabwe was thrown into a complete power blackout on Thursday afternoon after a catastrophic system failure crippled electricity supply across the entire nation, exposing once again the fragile state of the country’s energy infrastructure under ZESA Holdings.

The nationwide outage struck at exactly 2:11 PM on 3 July, knocking out power generation at both Kariba and Hwange power stations, the country’s two major electricity sources.

The blackout didn’t just paralyze domestic supply — it also disrupted regional power connections, effectively disconnecting Zimbabwe from South Africa’s Eskom, Zambia’s ZESCO, and Mozambique’s HCB, plunging parts of the southern African grid into instability.

In a statement issued hours later, ZESA Holdings confirmed the massive breakdown:

“ZESA Holdings wishes to inform its valued stakeholders of a nationwide power outage that occurred today, Thursday 3 July at 1411 hours due to a system disturbance. This has resulted in the loss of generation from Kariba and Hwange Power Stations.
Additionally, the interconnections with National Transmission (South Africa) and ZESCO (Zambia), as well as supplies from HCB (Mozambique), were simultaneously lost.”

Critics have labelled the event as yet another glaring example of chronic mismanagement and underinvestment in Zimbabwe’s power infrastructure. Despite repeated promises of reform and modernization, ZESA continues to suffer frequent breakdowns, load shedding, and delayed maintenance across its grid.

While the power utility claimed its teams were working “tirelessly” to restore services — and that some areas had already been reconnected — many Zimbabweans were left fuming.

“It’s unacceptable that an entire nation can be shut down like this in 2025. What exactly is ZESA doing with all the levies and support they receive?” asked a Harare resident during the outage.

By late evening Thursday, pockets of the country were slowly regaining power, but many areas remained in the dark, with no clear timeline for full restoration.

This latest blackout comes at a time when businesses, hospitals, and households are already struggling under erratic electricity supply, forcing many to rely on costly alternatives like generators and solar systems.

The incident has renewed calls for urgent reforms at ZESA, and greater accountability in Zimbabwe’s energy sector, where frequent blackouts have become the norm, rather than the exception.

Gutsa Villagers Challenge Air Marshal Nzvede Over Imminent Eviction

Open Letter to Air Marshal Jacob Nzvede

Dear Air Marshal Jacob Nzvede,

We, the residents of Gutsa Village under Headman Musonza in the Chief Chikwaka area of Goromonzi North, write to you with heavy hearts.

Our community is in distress following reports that we are to be evicted immediately—without compensation—by the Air Force of Zimbabwe to pave way for the construction of a radar installation.

While we understand the importance of national security and technological advancement, we appeal for a humane and lawful approach to this situation. Uprooting entire families without compensation or relocation support not only violates our basic rights but also undermines the very peace and protection the Air Force is meant to uphold.

We urge you to consider dialogue and engagement with the affected community. Let us find a peaceful and just solution that respects both the needs of national security and the dignity of ordinary citizens.

Let us coexist in peace—soldiers and civilians alike.

Sincerely,
A Concerned Resident

Strive Masiyiwa In Groundbreaking AI Project for Africa

By Business ReporterZimbabwe’s richest businessman, Strive Masiyiwa, has joined forces with the world’s tenth-richest man, Jensen Huang, in a landmark initiative to establish Africa’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) factory.

The state-of-the-art AI factory is being developed through a partnership between Masiyiwa’s Cassava Technologies and Huang’s Nvidia, one of the most valuable technology companies in the world. The initiative marks a significant milestone in Africa’s digital transformation, with advanced Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) already deployed in South Africa—the first country on the continent to receive them.

Cassava Technologies plans to expand GPU installations across key African markets, including Kenya, Nigeria, Egypt, and Morocco, laying the foundation for widespread AI innovation.

Speaking on the project, Masiyiwa emphasized the transformative potential of the collaboration:

“Collaborating with Nvidia gives us the advanced computing capabilities needed to drive Africa’s AI innovation while strengthening the continent’s digital independence.”

At the Global AI Summit on Africa 2025, held in Kigali in April—where Masiyiwa served as co-chair—he expressed hope for youth-led innovation:

“The future comes from young people building apps and solutions, small businesses every day across this continent using AI. They are the digital natives, and we have just given them the ability to do what they do best.”

Cassava has committed to investing up to $720 million in the development of AI infrastructure. The company will roll out Nvidia’s accelerated computing systems and AI software across its African network, ensuring access to cutting-edge technologies within the continent.

Nvidia’s systems will be deployed using its Cloud Partner reference architectures, with hundreds of GPUs powering high-performance AI capabilities. According to Hardy Pemhiwa, president of Cassava Technologies, 3,000 Nvidia GPUs are set to be installed at the South African plant by June. An additional 9,000 units will be deployed over the next three to four years in Kenya, Nigeria, Morocco, and Egypt.

Masiyiwa added:

“Building digital infrastructure for the AI economy is a priority if Africa is to take full advantage of the fourth industrial revolution. Our AI Factory provides the infrastructure for this innovation to scale—empowering African businesses, startups, and researchers with access to cutting-edge AI infrastructure to turn their bold ideas into real-world breakthroughs. And now, they don’t have to look beyond Africa to get it.”

Strive Masiyiwa is currently ranked as Africa’s 16th richest individual and remains one of the continent’s most influential technology leaders.

Source: Online Reports

MAI JEREMAYA RAPE ACCUSED MEN ACQUITTED: The Moment of Liberation for Two Harare Men Acquitted of Rape

MAI JEREMAYA RAPE ACCUSED MEN ACQUITTED: The Moment of Liberation for Two Harare Men Acquitted of Rape

By Dorrothy Moyo | ZimEye | A wave of emotion swept through the High Court steps Friday morning as Thabo Dube and Martin Charlie emerged victorious, walking free men after a harrowing ordeal that had seen their names dragged through the mud over rape allegations brought by popular socialite, Ashley Masendeke, better known as Mai Jeremaya.

The two men, sharply dressed in navy suits and broad smiles, stepped out of the court building under the golden sun, not just acquitted — but vindicated.

It was more than a legal victory. It was a declaration of freedom. The relief was written all over their faces — the quiet triumph of men who had been held in society’s dock long before a court ever pronounced judgment.

Harare magistrate Letwin Rwodzi delivered a firm and unequivocal ruling that eviscerated the prosecution’s case, describing it as “riddled with inconsistencies” and lacking the credibility needed for a conviction.

“From a clear analysis, the complainant’s evidence is unsatisfactory,” ruled Rwodzi. “The accused gave their own explanation which was not rebutted. Inconsistencies fly in the face of the complainant’s version of events.”

Throughout the trial, the accused men had maintained their innocence, asserting that the sexual encounter was consensual — and transactional. The court agreed, finding the complainant’s claims unconvincing and at times contradictory.

Rwodzi criticized the complainant’s shifting narratives, including three separate and inconsistent statements to the police, and noted her failure to report the matter immediately. “The sequence of events clearly demonstrates that the complainant’s report to the police was not a completely voluntary decision,” she said.

Adding to the court’s doubts was the revelation that Mai Jeremaya allegedly told her friend Cynthia that the incident was “a secret,” only crying rape after being confronted. The magistrate pointed to this as further evidence of ulterior motives — either extortion, emotional manipulation within her domestic life, or both.

To underscore the unreliability of the complainant’s account, video footage was played in court, disproving her claims about the lodge setup and the presence of multiple doors. The magistrate also cited testimony from the lodge manager, who confirmed that no one could access the premises without paying first — a fact that contradicted the complainant’s testimony.

But it was perhaps the complainant’s own courtroom confession that sealed the outcome: “In court, she admitted that she was the one who went on top and guided the second accused into her vagina,” Rwodzi stated.

As the verdict was delivered, a heavy cloud lifted from the shoulders of the accused. After months of public shame and legal battle, Dube and Charlie walked into the sunshine with their dignity intact, their names cleared, and the nightmare behind them.

“Justice has been served,” one of their lawyers said outside court. “Our clients were innocent from the start. Today they walk not just free, but restored.”

“We are happy not because they have been acquitted but justice has been done,” the lawyer added.

For Dube and Charlie, every step away from the courthouse was a reclaiming of life, reputation, and freedom. A silent message to all those who watched them with doubt: truth, when patiently pursued, still holds power.

Defeated but Undeterred: Gutu East’s Gift Gonese Vows to Revive Key Projects

By A Correspondent

Despite falling short in the June 14 Gutu East by-election, Gift Gonese is refusing to retreat from the political and developmental landscape of the constituency. The former parliamentary candidate is forging ahead with key community projects, asserting that his commitment to the people transcends electoral outcomes.

On Friday, Gonese reaffirmed his dedication to improving lives in the constituency, saying:
“We are reviving our projects in the constituency and this time on a higher trajectory.”

Gonese lost the by-election to ZANU PF’s Zvarevashe Masvingise, with Zivanai Nzvenga of the National Constitutional Assembly (NCA) also contesting. However, rather than stepping away, Gonese’s response underscores a leadership style rooted in service over position.

By continuing with development initiatives despite the loss, Gonese is being hailed by some in the community as a “true people’s leader.” His resolve to work on the ground is being viewed as a sharp contrast to the political norm where many candidates only engage with communities during campaign seasons.

Local residents have welcomed the continuation of projects, which include youth empowerment programs, water access initiatives, and agricultural support schemes.
“Politics aside, we just want development. Gonese has shown us that he is still with the people, and that matters,” said a ward 14 resident in Gutu East.

While Masvingise officially holds the parliamentary seat, all eyes remain on how both he and Gonese will contribute to the constituency’s development — and whether this spirit of post-election continuity can set a new tone in Zimbabwean politics.

World’s Best Marriage Video

By Lifestyle Reporter |

“The Height of Love: Why This Wedding Is a 100-Year Marriage Blueprint”

By A Correspondent

In a ballroom bathed in golden light, with fog dancing around their feet and violins serenading the moment, a pair embraced in the kind of slow dance that makes time pause. But it wasn’t just the romance or elegance that captivated guests—it was the striking image of the groom, significantly shorter than his statuesque bride, holding her close with the quiet confidence of a man who knew he had won the universe.

The bride, glowing in an intricately beaded orange gown, rested her forehead against her husband’s with reverence, while he held her waist with the tender certainty of forever. Her towering frame did not overshadow him—it exalted him. His shorter height did not diminish him—it dignified him.

The Best Kind of Love: Where Ego Dies and Loyalty Lives

In a world obsessed with appearances, this couple has quietly shattered one of the most persistent, shallow beauty myths: that a man must be taller than his wife. Their love story is a walking contradiction to conventional norms, and a living testimony that authentic connection matters more than societal optics.

This kind of union—the tall wife and the shorter man—is not just an aesthetic anomaly. It is a marriage forged in the fires of emotional maturity, inner security, and deep, mutual respect. It is, quite simply, the most enduring kind of love.

Why This Pairing Lasts 100 Years

  1. Confidence, Not Comparison: A man who marries a taller woman has already defeated the toxic masculinity that ties worth to inches. He is secure enough to lead from the heart, not the height chart.
  2. A Woman Who Chooses Substance Over Optics: A woman who marries a shorter man has already overcome societal pressure and vanity. She chooses laughter over looks, protection over pride, and devotion over drama.
  3. Daily Humility Practice: Every photograph is a reminder that love isn’t about fitting into expected roles, but writing new ones. And every moment together affirms a truth: when two souls align, the body’s measurements become irrelevant.
  4. Built-in Resilience: These couples have already battled society’s gaze before the wedding. Every stare, every whisper, every comment—ignored. That resilience becomes the foundation for every storm they will weather together.
  5. A Symbol of True Partnership: There’s no “leading from above” here—only eye-level vulnerability. Love isn’t about who stands taller, but who kneels lower to lift the other in times of need.

A Viral Vision of Forever

As guests stood mesmerised, many secretly whispered that this was not just a wedding—it was a revolution. In a time when marriages buckle under shallow expectations and Instagram filters, this couple showed us a deeper beauty. One that starts not in the mirror, but in the soul.

So let the world take notes.

Because in a time where marriages rarely last 10 years, this union—short man, tall woman—is sculpted to last a full century.

Height, after all, fades. But love like this only deepens. | SEND IS YOUR WEDDING VIDEOS

Veteran ZBC Broadcaster Dies

Stanley Goredema

By A Correspondent-Former Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) producer and presenter Stanley Goredema has died.

He was 73.

Goredema passed away on Tuesday at Kutama Mission Hospital in Zvimba after a long illness.

Goredema was one of the founding presenters of the then Radio 3—now Power FM—in the early 1980s.

He also served as a news producer, working alongside legendary broadcasters such as the late Josh Makawa, James Gora, Mike Mundwa, John Matimbe, Kudzi Marudza, and the then ZBC director Webster Shamu.

Reflecting on his contribution to the media, veteran broadcaster Mr. James Gora described Goredema as a humble and dedicated professional.

“He was one of the founding producer-presenters of the then Radio 3. Soon after Independence, the bosses, including Webster Shamu, saw the need for a youth-focused radio station—and that’s how Radio 3 came into being. Stanley was down-to-earth and always brightened up the newsroom,” Gora said.

At his Musengezi homestead in Zvimba, where mourners have gathered, family and friends also paid tribute to Goredema’s service to the nation, describing him as a hardworking, community-driven individual.

“My husband was a good man. He was kind and committed to his work. He had great respect for his job and would sometimes leave the house as early as 1 a.m. to attend to his exhumation duties,” said his wife, Josline Mubaiwa.

His uncle, Mr. Harry Goredema, said: “My nephew was involved in the burial of all national heroes from as far back as the 1980s until his retirement in 2018. He never stopped serving the nation—he continued his work with the exhumation of freedom fighters under the Fallen Heroes Trust.”

Long-time neighbour Mr. Washington Kariwo described Goredema as a pillar of his community: “We have lost a good neighbour who always pushed for community development. We remember his role at ZBC and the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe (NMMZ). He was indeed a loving person and a family champion.”

Mr. McDonald Mutatabikwa added: “He contributed a lot to the Methodist Church, where he worshipped. One thing he loved the most was his job—and he died with a legacy of having buried some of the country’s most prominent national heroes at the National Heroes Acre.”

After leaving ZBC, Goredema joined the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe, where he served for 35 years as a Principal Public Relations Officer. His responsibilities included guiding families of deceased national heroes through government burial protocols and coordinating the exhumation and reburial of liberation war fighters.

Goredema is survived by his wife, Josline, and five children.

High Court Orders Securico to Pay $675k for Lost Gold in Armed Robbery

The High Court has ruled that security company DDNS Security Operations, trading as Securico, must pay How Mine US$675,000 in damages after losing nearly 12kg of gold bullion during an armed robbery on October 4, 2022.

The ruling, delivered by Justice Joseph Chilimbe on July 1, found Securico liable for the loss of 11.95kg of gold that was being transported from How Mine to Bulawayo. How Mine accused the security firm of gross negligence, including the use of unarmoured vehicles, inadequate communications equipment, and failing to provide competent guards.

In its defence, Securico argued the robbery was unforeseeable and amounted to vis major—an act of God or unavoidable event. However, Justice Chilimbe dismissed that claim, stating the company knowingly accepted the risk under inadequate security arrangements.

“Securico, as a public carrier, was strictly liable under the Praetor’s Edict to deliver the consignment intact,” the judge said. “It assumed the risk by accepting the commission despite clear security shortcomings, such as using soft-skinned vehicles and guards without panic buttons or airtime.”

The judge also criticised the firm’s failure to trigger alarms or call for backup, describing the response as bordering on negligence. He noted that while Securico had a policy of prioritising the preservation of life during armed encounters, such restraint did not excuse poor preparation.

“Where a carrier undertakes a high-risk operation and deliberately restricts its personnel from confronting attackers, it must also accept the elevated risk of loss, especially when its security measures are known to be lacking,” said Justice Chilimbe.

Ultimately, the court concluded that Securico failed to prove that the gold loss was due to an unforeseeable event and ordered the company to pay US$675,000 plus 5% interest from the date of the robbery until full payment is made.

Advocate Thabani Mpofu represented How Mine, while Romeo Chatereza appeared for Securico.

Police Crack US$4 Million EcoBank Heist

By Crime and Court Reporter- Police have made a major breakthrough in Zimbabwe’s most daring cash heist, arresting one of the suspects believed to be behind the sensational US$4.4 million EcoBank robbery that stunned the nation last year.

Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, confirmed the arrest on Wednesday, saying the suspect is expected to appear in court this morning. While authorities have kept the finer details of the arrest under wraps, sources close to the investigation say the net is closing in on the rest of the gang.

The robbery, which took place in broad daylight at an EcoBank branch in central Bulawayo last year was executed with military-like precision. A seven-member armed gang reportedly struck as banking staff were transferring large amounts of cash from the branch to a security vehicle. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic but swift operation that unfolded in just 149 seconds.

The robbers, armed and unmasked, overpowered the security personnel and fled with US$4.4 million in cash—vanishing without a trace and leaving banking staff, passers-by, and police baffled. The heist is now widely regarded as the biggest and most audacious cash robbery in Zimbabwe’s history.

Following the incident, a nationwide manhunt was launched, with police deploying specialized units and tracking technologies. Investigations extended across provinces and even into neighbouring countries amid speculation that the gang could be part of a wider regional criminal network.

For months, the case appeared to go cold as the robbers remained elusive, triggering public criticism over the lack of progress in tracking down the culprits. Wednesday’s arrest signals a turning point in the case and has renewed hope that the masterminds behind the dramatic heist will soon be brought to justice.

“The suspect is currently assisting police with investigations, and we expect more arrests soon,” said Inspector Msebele, declining to reveal the identity of the individual for operational reasons.

The development comes amid increasing reports of sophisticated criminal syndicates targeting financial institutions, raising questions about the effectiveness of existing security measures in Zimbabwe’s banking sector.

More details to follow as the story develops.

Mnangagwa’s ‘Notorious’ Brother Dies

4 July 2025 – Harare

By A Correspondent | Sydney Zukuzo Gata, the controversial Executive Chairman of ZESA Holdings and brother-in-law to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has died.

His death was announced by Vemuganga Community Radio Station on Friday morning. Gata, a longtime fixture in Zimbabwe’s energy sector and a powerful political figure in the eastern Manicaland region, passed away after what sources say was a short illness.

Gata’s death has sparked mixed reactions across Zimbabwe. While state-affiliated voices hailed him as a tireless servant of Chipinge and the country at large, critics and political analysts are recalling his contentious rise to power — a career often marked by scandal, nepotism, and accusations of corruption.

Gata was appointed to lead ZESA Holdings by President Mnangagwa in a move that was widely criticized as politically motivated. In 2020, then Energy Minister Fortune Chasi attempted to dismiss him amid serious allegations of mismanagement, only for Mnangagwa to block the move — a decision that further entrenched Gata’s grip over the state electricity utility.

Prof Jonathan Moyo, a former ZANU PF minister, previously blasted Gata’s appointment, claiming it was part of a broader network of nepotism and polygamous ties within Zimbabwe’s ruling elite. In a tweet, Moyo described both Mnangagwa and Gata as “notorious polygamists” married to sisters from Chipinge’s Mutema communal lands.

Gata was married to Deputy Education Minister Angeline Gata, who is also the Member of Parliament for Mutema-Musikavanhu.

Community tributes poured in from Chipinge on Friday. “Baba Gata’s passing is not only a loss to his family but to the energy sector and the people of Chipinge whom he served with unwavering commitment,” said a local official.

Vemuganga Radio added in a heartfelt Shona broadcast:

“Tineurombo ngekurashikirwa ndibaba Sydney Zukuzo Gata. Baba Gata aenda asi mishando yaakabata inoita kuti tirambe teiakarakadza mukuwo weshe ngemishando yaakabata Chipinge, nenyika yeshe.”

(“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Baba Sydney Zukuzo Gata. He is gone, but the legacy of his work continues to guide us in Chipinge and the entire country.”)

Details regarding the cause of death and funeral arrangements are yet to be made public.

Breaking News : ZESA Boss Sydney Gata Dies

By A Correspondent – ZESA Holdings Executive Chairman, Dr. Sydney Zukuzo Gata, has died, according to Vemuganga Community Radio Station.

In a report released on Friday, the station described Gata’s death as a significant loss to both the Chipinge community and the nation at large.

“Tineurombo ngekurashikirwa ndibaba Sydney Zukuzo Gata,” the station reported. “Baba Gata aenda asi mishando yaakabata inoita kuti tirambe teiakarakadza mukuwo weshe ngemishando yaakabata Chipinge, nenyika yeshe.”
(“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Baba Sydney Zukuzo Gata. He is gone, but the legacy of his work continues to guide us in Chipinge and the entire country.”)

Dr. Gata served as the Executive Chairman of ZESA Holdings. He was also the husband of Deputy Minister of Education Angeline Gata and the Member of Parliament for Mutema-Musikavanhu in the National Assembly.

Community members and colleagues described him as a dedicated public servant and visionary in Zimbabwe’s energy sector.

“Baba Gata’s passing is not only a loss to his family but to the energy sector and the people of Chipinge whom he served with unwavering commitment,” said one local official.

Further details regarding the cause of death and funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in due course.

Zimbabwe Joins Regional Initiative to Eliminate Toxic Chemicals in Plastics

By A Correspondent

Zimbabwe has embarked on a five-year regional initiative aimed at cutting down dangerous chemical additives in plastics, as part of a broader effort to protect human health and the environment from persistent organic pollutants (POPs).

The country is actively involved in a programme titled “Secular and Purpose-Free Plastics in Africa,” which focuses on reducing harmful POPs in plastic materials. These chemicals, while used to enhance the durability of plastics, have been linked to serious health problems.

“These chemical compounds increase the durability of plastics, but they have serious health implications, including cancer,” said Professor Farai Mapanda, the national technical coordinator for the project and an academic at the University of Zimbabwe.

Prof Mapanda explained that Zimbabwe is currently working to characterise plastic waste, identify the types of pollutants present, and build the capacity of waste recyclers.

“Recyclers are a key part of this initiative. They help alleviate pressure on our waste disposal sites and prevent dangerous pollutants from leaching into groundwater or being released into the atmosphere during burning,” he said.

The initiative complements the ongoing Presidential Waste Collection Programme, which has seen growing efforts to rid the country of plastic waste. But Prof Mapanda stressed that waste collection alone is not enough.

“We are now advocating for a holistic approach that ensures collected waste is recycled or repurposed,” he said. “We aim to promote circularity in plastic use, minimising what ends up in dumpsites.”

Beyond recycling, the programme is also engaging plastic manufacturers and importers, urging them to shift towards safer chemical alternatives already being used successfully in other parts of the world.

“The goal is to eventually revise our legal and statutory instruments to mandate safer, non-toxic materials in both imported and locally produced plastics,” said Prof Mapanda.

He added that this medium-term intervention is intended to lay the groundwork for long-term legislative reforms that will shield future generations from the toxic impacts of POPs.

Through this initiative, Zimbabwe joins other African nations in confronting one of the most urgent environmental health threats of the modern era—plastic pollution laced with invisible, long-lasting toxins.

144 Years In Prison For Beitbridge Armed Robbers

By A Correspondent

Two serial armed robbers from Beitbridge have each been sentenced to 144 years in prison after being convicted of three violent armed robbery incidents committed in December last year.

Gift Maphosa (36) and Mpokiseng Dube (27) received 48 years per count, resulting in a total of 144 years each, following their conviction at the Chiredzi Regional Magistrate Court on Monday.

According to the court proceedings, the two men had developed a notorious pattern of targeting motorists by blocking roads with boulders at night, forcing vehicles to stop near Beitbridge. Once their victims were stranded, they would emerge from the darkness and rob them at gunpoint.

In one of the attacks, the duo shot and injured two victims, further intensifying the severity of their crimes and prompting swift law enforcement response.

Their arrest came after police received a tip-off, leading to their capture in Mwenezi. Authorities praised the public for cooperating and helping bring the criminals to justice.

Woman Ordered to Pay Maintenance to Ex-Husband

Harare – July 4, 2025

By A Correspondent | A woman has been ordered by the Harare Civil Court to pay monthly maintenance to her ex-husband—marking a groundbreaking shift in traditional gender dynamics in the country’s family law.

Memory Mawarire, a school teacher, has been directed to pay US$60 per month to her former husband, Innocent Ndingani, a police officer, beginning this month. She will also be responsible for contributing to the school fees of their two children, who remain in Ndingani’s custody.

The couple was married for 14 years, from 2009 until their separation in 2023. Ndingani told the court that despite being granted custody of the children, Mawarire had neglected her financial responsibilities as a parent.

“She is not helping me to feed the children or pay their school fees,” he said in his application. “Despite the court granting her custody, she gave me the children and has since distanced herself from their daily needs.”

In response, Mawarire defended her position, insisting she remained an active mother by visiting every weekend and claiming she had bought the children’s school uniforms. She painted her ex-husband as an idle and irresponsible man.

“I have been to court several times because of this man’s character. He is one of the laziest men under the sun, always expecting to be taken care of by his wife,” said Mawarire. “Three of my housemaids left because of him, and I bought 80 percent of the building materials for our house during our marriage.”

The landmark ruling underscores a shifting tide in gender roles and family obligations in Zimbabwe, where traditionally men are the ones mandated to pay spousal or child maintenance.

Legal experts say the decision reflects a growing recognition of financial fairness irrespective of gender. “The court looked at the best interests of the children and the financial capacity of both parties,” said one family law specialist. “This could set a precedent for future cases.”

The ruling has already sparked widespread debate on social media and among legal circles, with many hailing it as a step toward equality in domestic responsibility.

What would you do if your empty bank account suddenly showed a jaw-dropping US$3,000?

Bank Error Lands Victoria Falls Bartender in Hot Water After US$3,000 Windfall Turns into Criminal Charge

Victoria Falls – July 4, 2025

For 26-year-old Sandile Moyo, a bartender in the resort town of Victoria Falls, it was a no-brainer — spend big and fast. But her dream run quickly spiraled into a legal nightmare after what seemed like a miracle turned out to be a costly banking blunder.

Moyo has been convicted of theft after she withdrew US$916.25 from a bank account that didn’t belong to her, following a system error at the CABS Victoria Falls branch that mistakenly linked her new bank card to a corporate account belonging to Aspire Surveillance Security (PVT) Ltd.

According to prosecutor Audrey Mukanganya, Moyo opened two bank accounts on May 28, 2025, and collected her card on June 9. It was then that the error occurred, placing her in control of an account loaded with over US$3,200.

“Between June 9 and 18, Moyo made multiple withdrawals totaling US$916.25, fully knowing the money was not hers,” Mukanganya told the court.

She spent the money in a lavish spending spree, painting the town red with no regard for the consequences. However, the CABS system soon flagged the anomaly, and Moyo was swiftly arrested.

None of the funds were recovered.

Magistrate Linda Dzvene sentenced Moyo to nine months behind bars. However, in a move that offered her a final lifeline, four months were suspended on condition of good behavior, while the remaining five will be set aside if she repays the full amount to the bank.

The court made it clear — pay up or face prison.

As of now, Moyo’s fate hangs in the balance. If she fails to refund the stolen cash, the bartender will be forced to swap bar counters for prison bars.

BREAKING: ZANU PF Confirms- Chiwenga Told Mnangagwa Tagwirei Must Be Ejected Now

By A Correspondent | ZANU PF has officially confirmed the exclusive ZimEye story that tenderpreneur Kuda Tagwirei was today booted out of a Central Committee meeting.

Speaking at the close of day, a senior official told ZimEye,

“Harare and Bulawayo co-options were nullified by CC today due to failure to follow party procedure.

Tagwirei (Harare province) and Mushando (Bulawayo province) their co-options were nullified by CC,” said one source.

But ZANU PF Director Farai Marapira said Tagwirei was not rejected adding that his co option was only postponed.

He said, “The co option was not rejected.

“When provinces nominate individuals to go to the central committee members, the central committee it ratifies these nominations; the central committee was simply not able to ratify these nominations because it had other issues it had to attend to especially pertaining to the upcoming conference so the ratification was postponed to a later date, and this is all that occurred; Everything else that is being said is conjecture and falsehoods.”

An analyst speaking to ZimEye on condition of anonymity  questioned the director’s comment.

“if it was postponed, why was Tagwirei called for the meeting?,” they asked.

They continued-

“Why are Herald and ZBC quiet of the postponement?

“Let me tell you the truth , Tagwirei arrived at the building and VP Chiwenga was called upon and he told the president this cannot go ahead, he cannot attend.

“Patrick Chinamasa and Machacha were called up. During that time the VP and the president were locked up together.

“Machacha came back to the president and the president announced saying the Tagwirei co option is now off the table, it will be handled by the e presidium.

“Tagwirei also had cars he wanted to donate to the politburo. They were stopped as he was told you are not following procedure.”

“The development is the first time that divisions in ZANU PF are now visible. This then illustrates that the party is now in autopilot.

1. Tagwirei seeks to control the party through money.
2. ⁠Mnangagwa shows his weakness concerning money.
3. ⁠he had introduced Chivayo to the international community using money.
4. ⁠the question Zimbabweans must ask is- the president controls the national resources so why does he allow himself to be controlled by people stealing money? The answer is he is one with them.
5. ⁠That’s why today he lost when he was asked to withdraw his favourite .
6. ⁠Tagwirei is Mnangagwa’s Sekuru-cousin: meaning the president is using family. How could he smuggle a person who wasn’t even a cell member, jumping five stages to Central Committee? This means the pot is boiling.
7. ⁠Is he able to run the country if he can’t run the party?
8. ⁠At this rate, the opposition led by Chamisa can easily take over.
9. ⁠Tagwirei has been pushed forward by Matuke, Mavetera…Machacha, and Daniel Garwe.” – ZimEye

Struggling Air Zimbabwe In US$1 Million Debt Clearance

By Business Reporter- The struggling national airliner, Air Zimbabwe said it had cleared its over US$1 million to key international service providers.

This development will see Air Zimbabwe re-joining global ticketing and code-sharing platforms, hence boosting passenger numbers and the airline’s international footprint.

Speaking on the development in Victoria Falls this Tuesday, Air Zimbabwe Chief Executive Officer, Mr Edmund Makona, said the airline identified global visibility as a critical business enabler in its turnaround plan.

“We asked ourselves: what’s on the critical path to our revival? Visibility on global selling platforms was top. Without it, we couldn’t do code-sharing or interlining. Now, with shareholder support, we have cleared most of the debt,” said Mr Makona.

Mr Makona confirmed that Air Zimbabwe is now integrating its systems with global distribution networks, the backbone of international travel bookings. 

The integration process is expected to take about three months or less and oncecompleted, passengers worldwide will once again be able to book Air Zimbabwe flights through any travel agent or partner airline.

Rejoining code-sharing platforms also means Air Zimbabwe flights can now be sold through partner carriers globally, improving access to Zimbabwe’s major tourist destinations and boosting arrivals.

Tourism experts have welcomed the move, noting its significance in enhancing Zimbabwe’s visibility and competitiveness as a destination.

“That is a big leap in the right direction. It’s a serious enabler of increased inbound travel by tourists. This new chapter in national colours is something to celebrate. We are confident Air Zimbabwe will become one of the airlines of choice. With immigration now fully online, we anticipate a surge in international tourist arrivals,” said Mr Clement Mukwasi, a tourism executive.

With renewed partnerships and system upgrades underway, Air Zimbabwe is preparing for a stronger presence on the global aviation map.

‘Daddy’ Pastor Walter Masocha Convicted of Sexual Abuse After Competing with Journalist Over Same Victim

STIRLING, SCOTLAND — By A Correspondent | ZimEye | Disgraced preacher Walter Masocha, founder of the Agape for All Nations Ministries International, has been convicted of multiple sexual offences after a chilling trial revealed years of exploitation disguised as deliverance.

Masocha—who once competed (as it were) with Zimbabwean journalist Hopewell Chin’ono for the attention and trust of the same complainant during trial in 2014, used his spiritual authority to molest, manipulate, and attempt to rape women in his congregation under the pretense of casting out demons and fulfilling “God’s will.”

The 61-year-old was found guilty of attempted rape, indecent assault, and sexual assault at the High Court in Livingston, relating to a series of incidents that took place between 2006 and 2012 at properties in and around Stirling.

‘God Has Given You to Me’

One victim, now 39, testified that Masocha began abusing her when she was just 20. Referring to him as “Dad” or “Daddy,” she said he used spiritual language to groom and violate her, claiming divine instruction to care for her intimately.

“God has given you to me to nurture you, look after you, and love you in any way you want to be loved,” she recalled him saying.

She described being groped during church “surgeries,” kissed by force, slapped on the bottom, and in one instance, nearly raped in his bedroom before managing to escape. On another occasion, Masocha guided her hand onto his erect penis while fully clothed, during a private session at his Sauchieburn mansion.

Competing ‘Daddies’ for the Same Victim.

One of the victim’s trust and vulnerability was not only exploited by Masocha. Evidence and testimonies reveal that high-profile journalist Hopewell Chin’ono also portrayed himself as a “Daddy” figure toward the same woman, creating an emotionally manipulative environment of religious and psychological dominance.

While Chin’ono has not been charged with any offence, the courtroom revelations cast light on a disturbing pattern outside: two influential Zimbabwean men vying for control over the same vulnerable woman—each presenting himself as a saviour, protector, or father figure, only to cause further emotional trauma.

Pretending to Remove Demons

Another woman, now 58, testified that Masocha had also molested her approximately 20 years ago. She said he claimed she was a gift from God and that he was “removing demons” from her by placing his hand in her underwear and groping her genitals.

“He said God had told him to kiss me… to bless me through his ‘holy lips’,” she said.

Her husband told the court that when they confronted Masocha in accordance with Zimbabwean tradition, the preacher fell to the floor and asked for prayer, saying, “I’m sorry. I loved you too much.”

Repeat Predator.

Masocha was previously convicted in 2015 for sexually assaulting a woman and groping a schoolgirl during church sessions. In that case, he also claimed to be removing demons. The conviction was later quashed on appeal due to procedural errors (that happened after the other Daddy character, Hopewell Chin’ono had encroached the main complainant for an affair disguised as a news interview), but the latest guilty verdicts leave no doubt about his pattern of abuse.

Judge Susan Craig remanded Masocha in custody ahead of sentencing scheduled for July 28, calling his actions “appalling” and warning that a custodial sentence is inevitable. A risk assessment is also underway to determine whether he qualifies for an extended sentence due to the danger he poses to the public.

“Walter Masocha wasn’t just a pastor and a preacher. He was a predator who thought that his power and position rendered him immune from suspicion,” said lead prosecutor Michael McIntosh.

Journalist’s social media supporters mislabelled complainant.

Throughout the periods since the 2014 hearings, one of the elderly complainants was labelled a mad person by the Daddy character Hopewell Chin’ono’s online supporters. But she was not at all insane, says one complainant who’s now an adult. She says:“ a lot of you ask me why am I talking about this now? Why did I not talk about this when it happened? When it happened? I won’t talk about it because I think of the time there was a lady who came up and spoke about it and people said that the devil speaking about speaking to her she lying you know she’s probably she’s angry or something And Lady In because I feel like it was a cold and we were like brainwashed to believe this person this one man so I never spoke about never spoke about my experience because I didn’t think anybody would believe me because Woman who told her truth and we didn’t believe her.”

From Archbishop to Sex Offender.

Masocha, a ZAOGA pastor, and a former accountancy lecturer at the University of Stirling, founded his church in 2007 and quickly grew it into a global ministry with over 2,000 members across the UK, US, Canada, and parts of Africa. He awarded himself the title of Archbishop and drew a salary comparable to the Archbishop of Canterbury.

But behind the titles and televised sermons was a man abusing power, hiding behind God, and taking advantage of vulnerable women looking for prayer and healing.

Support Services: If you or someone you know has been affected by abuse in a religious setting, please contact local safeguarding services or support hotlines in your area.

South Africa’s Former Deputy President Dies

By A Correspondent

Former Republic of South Africa Deputy President David Mabuza has died at the age of 64.

Mabuza passed away in hospital on Wednesday after battling a long illness, his family confirmed in a brief statement.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved David Dabede Mabuza. He died peacefully after a prolonged illness surrounded by close family,” the statement read.

Mabuza served as South Africa’s Deputy President from 2018 to 2023 under President Cyril Ramaphosa and played a key role in the African National Congress (ANC). Known for his influence within the ruling party and often referred to as “The Cat” for his political survival skills, Mabuza remained a pivotal figure in South African politics even after stepping down from active government duties.

Messages of condolence have started pouring in from across the political spectrum, with the ANC saying, “Comrade Mabuza’s contribution to the ANC and to the country’s democratic project cannot be overstated. His passing is a great loss to the movement and the nation.”*

Details regarding funeral arrangements will be announced in due course, the family said.

This is a developing story.

LIVE: Tagwireyi Heads Home After Being Chucked Out Of ZANU Central Committee Meeting

video loading below

The tenderpreneur Kuda Tagwirei has been kicked out of a @ZANUPF_Official
Central Committee meeting. Impeccable sources who spoke to Simba Chikanza @schikanza confirmed the development, the first of its kind in less than 2 months after a string of nation-shaking events that began when anti corruption war veteran @BlessedGeza announced a threat to tenderpreneurs and some military generals accused of obtaining bribes.

“Tagwirei was booted during the meeting in an emotive instruction issued by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga,” just after 1pm, a source speaking on condition of anonymity further confirmed to ZimEye.

Calls to the man for a comment were not responded to. Other calls to central committee members failed as they were still locked up.

The incident happens a day after several his motor vehicle donations to members of the politburo were blocked yesterday by the VP Chiwenga.

The incident suggests a major rift, the first of its kind visibly suggesting that President Mnangagwa’s attempts to make Tagwirei a Central Committee member have been blocked, as previously reported by ZimEye yesterday.

ZANU PF Director @marapira_farai did not respond to requests for comment.

The ZANU PF spokesman Chris Mutsvangwa was reached comment.

Real Madrid CF Mourn Liverpool Star Diogo Jota

Sports Correspondent

Spanish La Liga giants Real Madrid have released an official statement mourning the tragic death of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, who both died in a car accident in Spain on Thursday morning.

“Real Madrid C. F., its president and Board of Directors are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Liverpool FC player Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, who played for F. C. Penafiel,” the club said.

In the heartfelt statement, the 15-time European champions extended their condolences to the grieving families and the clubs affected by the tragedy.

“Real Madrid expresses its condolences and support to their family, loved ones and teammates at their respective clubs. Real Madrid shares in the deep sorrow felt by the footballing world. May they rest in peace,” the club concluded.

The football world has been left in shock by the sudden loss of two young talents.

FC Platinum Captain Brian Banda Laid to Rest in Bulawayo

Sports Correspondent

FC Platinum captain Brian Banda, who tragically died in a road accident was laid to rest on Thursday at West Park Cemetery in Bulawayo.

Born on September 9, 1995, at Luveve Clinic in Bulawayo, Banda attended Rosecamp Primary School before moving on to Milton High School and later Entumbane High School.

His football journey began with local clubs H.R.M. and Ajax Hotspurs Juniors, where he quickly showed promise.

Brian passed away on June 29, 2025, following a fatal accident along the Zvishavane-Filabusi Road, cutting short a promising football career and a life admired by many in Zimbabwe’s sporting community.

Banda rose to prominence in the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League, making his professional debut for Highlanders in 2016. He came on as a second-half substitute for King Nadolo in Matchday 5 against Chapungu United—a match Highlanders won 1-0.

Over his time with Highlanders, Banda became a fan favorite, known for his work ethic and consistency. He scored eight league goals and featured in 117 matches across all competitions—99 league appearances and 18 in cup games. Despite occasional setbacks, he won three trophies with the club and carved a legacy as one of the team’s key midfielders.

At the end of the 2020 season, Banda transferred to FC Platinum. He made an immediate impact, scoring on his debut in a 6-1 victory over Tenax CS in the opening match of the 2021 season. He went on to earn 114 caps for the club, scoring six goals—five in league matches and one in a cup competition.

One of the highlights of his FC Platinum career came on Matchday 11 of the 2024 season when he made his 100th league appearance in a 1-1 draw against his former team, Highlanders.

Beyond his club career, Banda also represented Zimbabwe at the international level, earning nine caps for the senior national team.

Brian Banda leaves behind a legacy of dedication, leadership, and professionalism both on and off the pitch.

His untimely death is a significant loss to Zimbabwean football.

BREAKING: Tagwirei Kicked Out Of Central Committee Meeting

The tenderpreneur Kuda Tagwirei has been kicked out of a @ZANUPF_Official
Central Committee meeting. Impeccable sources who spoke to Simba Chikanza @schikanza confirmed the development, the first of its kind in less than 2 months after a string of nation-shaking events that began when anti corruption war veteran @BlessedGeza announced a threat to tenderpreneurs and some military generals accused of obtaining bribes.

“Tagwirei was booted during the meeting in an emotive instruction issued by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga,” just after 1pm, a source speaking on condition of anonymity further confirmed to ZimEye.

Calls to the man for a comment were not responded to. Other calls to central committee members failed as they were still locked up.

The incident happens a day after several his motor vehicle donations to members of the politburo were blocked yesterday by the VP Chiwenga.

The incident suggests a major rift, the first of its kind visibly suggesting that President Mnangagwa’s attempts to make Tagwirei a Central Committee member have been blocked, as previously reported by ZimEye yesterday.

ZANU PF Director @marapira_farai did not respond to requests for comment.

The ZANU PF spokesman Chris Mutsvangwa was reached comment.

Farming: What Is Dystocia?

By Dr. Trywell Muzerengi

Definition:
Dystocia refers to difficult or abnormal labor, where an animal is unable to give birth naturally without human assistance. This condition is commonly observed in domestic animals such as cows, goats, and sheep.


Common Causes of Dystocia:

  1. Fetal malpresentation:
    The fetus is not positioned correctly—such as a breech presentation or limb flexion.
  2. Oversized fetus:
    Frequently occurs in heifers or first-time mothers.
  3. Uterine inertia:
    Weak or absent uterine contractions delay or prevent delivery.
  4. Pelvic obstruction or birth canal abnormalities:
    Structural issues that hinder delivery.
  5. Multiple fetuses (e.g., twins):
    Fetuses may become tangled or obstruct each other’s passage.

Signs of Dystocia:

Prolonged straining without progress

Visible fetal parts with no advancement

Repeated restlessness, lying down, and getting up

No delivery after 2–3 hours of active labor


First Aid / On-Farm Management:

  1. Maintain hygiene:
    Sanitize hands, gloves, and instruments before examination.
  2. Carefully assess the situation:
    Gently examine the birth canal to determine fetal position and identify obstructions.
  3. Correct malpositions only if trained:
    Attempt repositioning gently—never use force, as it can harm both the dam and fetus.
  4. Call a veterinarian if unsure or labor stalls:
    Some cases require professional intervention, including a possible cesarean section.

Prevention Tips:

Provide balanced and adequate nutrition during pregnancy

Use appropriate breeding stock to reduce the risk of oversized fetuses

Closely monitor animals as they approach parturition

Be ready to assist at the first sign of complications


Proper understanding and timely management of dystocia can save both the mother and offspring. Always seek veterinary support when in doubt to ensure the best outcome.

https://www.facebook.com/share/18x439qwXt
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6UPk31NCrQHhQd9F1V

lasmuzagrosolutions@gmail.com

Zvigananda Destroying Nation, Gorimbo Continues Sparring With Zanu PF Varakashi

By A Correspondent

Zimbabwean UFC fighter Themba Gorimbo has once again ignited political controversy, openly criticizing ZANU PF loyalists, accusing them of destroying opportunities for ordinary citizens and blocking progress in Zimbabwe.

In a statement shared on his official social media platforms on Wednesday, Gorimbo called out the so-called “Zvigananda”—a derogatory slang term referring to ZANU PF-connected elites and their close associates—blaming them for the ongoing brain drain and economic hardship that has forced millions of Zimbabweans to remain in foreign countries.

“Are you a Zimbabwean and living in South Africa but circumstances don’t allow you to go back home?” Gorimbo asked his followers. “Say yes if you are and your reason not to go home. Let’s see how people actually feel. Voice of the voiceless.”

He went on to address the diaspora more broadly:
“Are you a Zimbabwean in any foreign land but wish to go back home? What is not allowing you to go home vana vamai?”

Switching to a mix of Shona and English, the UFC fighter spoke of his own desire to contribute to Zimbabwe’s development, but expressed frustration over the lack of meaningful opportunities and political interference:

“Neniwo ndotoda kundo trenera Zimbabwe ndichiuya kuno kuzorova vanhu ndodzokera kanyi ndeindo tovewa ndiri kumba,” he wrote. “But ha ma1. Kutojadhira uri kuno plus ma opportunity for vana because paZimbabwe ma opportunity asarira zvigananda nevana vazvo. Nevamwe vano benefiter by association.”

Translation: “Even I would love to train in Zimbabwe, go compete abroad and return home, just like anyone else. But it’s tough. Life outside is expensive, and opportunities for the youth back home have been monopolised by these Zvigananda and their associates.”

Gorimbo’s remarks have drawn sharp backlash from ZANU PF hardliners and online defenders, known as Varakashi, who quickly labelled him “unpatriotic” and accused him of using his platform to attack the ruling party. Some warned him to stay out of Zimbabwean politics and “focus on fighting in the cage.”

However, Gorimbo’s supporters have rallied behind him, applauding his bravery for speaking truth to power. Many Zimbabweans across the diaspora echoed his sentiments in the comment sections, sharing stories of blocked dreams and the longing to return home—if only conditions improved.

Despite the criticism, Gorimbo has not backed down, positioning himself as the “voice of the voiceless” and vowing to continue raising uncomfortable truths.

His remarks reflect a growing tension between politically-connected elites and the broader population—particularly the youth and professionals in the diaspora—who feel shut out of Zimbabwe’s political and economic system.

Whether his outspokenness will attract further political backlash or inspire wider discourse, one thing is certain: Themba Gorimbo is not pulling any punches—inside or outside the ring.

“We Care,” Says Mnangagwa, But Zimbabweans Ask: Where Is the Care When We Are Suffering Daily?

By A Correspondent

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has once again repeated his administration’s familiar promise of caring for the people—despite growing public frustration over widespread poverty, unemployment, and deteriorating public services across the country.

Addressing the 384th Ordinary Session of the ZANU PF Politburo in Harare on Wednesday, Mnangagwa celebrated the party’s recent by-election victories in Matabeleland South, Matabeleland North, Manicaland, and Masvingo provinces.

“I congratulate Matabeleland South, Matabeleland North, Manicaland and Masvingo Provinces for securing decisive victories for our Party in the recently held Parliamentary and local authority by-elections,” he said.

He claimed the results reflect the ruling party’s continued popularity and the impact of what he described as “people-centered policies.”

“The overwhelming success in these elections continues to attest to the strength of our grassroots mobilisation strategies and the popularity of our people-centered policies. Makorokoto, Amhlophe,” Mnangagwa declared.

But as he praised electoral outcomes and claimed growing support for the government, millions of ordinary Zimbabweans continue to grapple with crippling inflation, meager salaries, collapsing healthcare, and chronic shortages of basic services.

“Our people-centered development programmes and projects across every sector [are] gaining the support and appreciation of the citizens,” said Mnangagwa. “Government, on its part, will continue to prioritize the capacitation and resourcing of our Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies to sustain the momentum of high-impact programmes and projects.”

However, many citizens took to social media to express disbelief, with some accusing the president of being out of touch with the reality on the ground.

“There is no electricity, water is a luxury, hospitals are broken, and people can’t afford a loaf of bread. Where exactly is this care?” one online user posted.

While Mnangagwa continues to repeat “we care” rhetoric in political forums, many Zimbabweans feel that these words are not backed by tangible actions to improve livelihoods. As the ruling party sets its sights on consolidating political power, the gap between official narratives and daily survival continues to widen.

For now, the promises of “high-impact programmes” offer little comfort to those struggling to get through each day—and many are left wondering when, if ever, the suffering will end.

Wicknell Chivayo Soils Dr Joshua Nkomo Legacy With Dirty Cash Donation…

By A Correspondent

Controversial businessman and ZANU PF-linked tenderpreneur Wicknell Chivayo is under fire for what many Zimbabweans have described as a “shameless attempt to hijack” and “cleanse” his public image by aligning himself with the revered legacy of the late nationalist Dr. Joshua Nkomo.

Chivayo took to Facebook on Wednesday with an elaborate tribute marking the 26th anniversary of Dr. Nkomo’s death, praising the late Vice President as a “gallant son of the soil” and announcing a US$250,000 donation to the Joshua Nkomo Trust.

Writing in a tone packed with revolutionary rhetoric, Chivayo posted:

“FATHER ZIMBABWE… THE LEGACY LIVES ON… This is a man who dedicated his ENTIRE life to our freedom… He led our people to freedom and cultivated UNITY across Zimbabwe.”
He added:

“I wish to humbly extend US$250,000 to the Joshua Nkomo Trust led by his first born daughter Thandi Nkomo as a small token of appreciation… I hope this small contribution will help support the Trust’s ongoing initiatives in education, cultural development and welfare initiatives.”

But Zimbabweans were not impressed.

Angry citizens flooded social media accusing Chivayo of using Dr. Nkomo’s name to sanitize his own controversial reputation, which has been marred by accusations of corruption and conspicuous consumption. Many pointed out the irony of a man linked to lavish lifestyles and questionable tenders invoking the legacy of a leader known for humility, sacrifice, and principled leadership.

“This is a direct insult to Umdala Wethu,” wrote one user on X (formerly Twitter). “Joshua Nkomo stood for honesty, unity and service—not showboating with dirty money.”

Another commenter said, “Wicknell is trying to buy public favour by associating himself with someone whose values he has never lived by. This donation is not about Nkomo. It’s about cleansing his own image.”

Critics also accused Chivayo of politicizing and monetizing the memory of a national hero to score points with both the ruling elite and the public.

A Bulawayo- based political analyst said : “What we’re seeing is classic image laundering. When reputational damage becomes too strong, people try to borrow legitimacy from untouchable legacies like that of Joshua Nkomo. But the public isn’t fooled.”

Others pointed to the timing of the announcement—made just one day after the anniversary of Nkomo’s passing—as a carefully calculated PR move, especially given Chivayo’s increasing presence in political circles and state-sanctioned events.

While some acknowledged that financial contributions to charitable causes are welcome, many insisted that true honouring of Nkomo’s legacy should reflect his values, not just his name.

“Real honour would be funding education quietly, empowering the marginalized without cameras and hashtags, and standing up against corruption—not posing with luxury cars and writing long speeches on Facebook,” read one post that was widely shared.

As public anger continues to mount, the Joshua Nkomo Trust has not yet issued an official response to Chivayo’s donation offer.

Whether the gesture will be accepted or not, the backlash underscores how deeply Zimbabweans continue to revere Dr. Joshua Nkomo—and how fiercely they guard the integrity of his memory.

Delay Is Not Denial, Advocate Nelson Chamisa Speaks On Massive Return

Tinashe Sambiri

Opposition leader Advocate Nelson Chamisa has broken his silence, reassuring the nation that his political journey is far from over, declaring boldly: “Delay is not denial.”

In a powerful statement released on Thursday, Chamisa reaffirmed his commitment to the democratic struggle and to the millions of Zimbabweans who have backed him in two contested presidential elections.

“Fellow citizens, thank you for your unwavering support ever since I became a Presidential candidate in 2018,” he wrote. “You have walked this journey with me, and are still walking, through hope and heartbreak, through resistance and resilience.”

Reflecting on the disputed 2018 and 2023 elections, Chamisa said Zimbabweans voted for change but were “temporarily denied” the outcome they had chosen.

“Let it be clear: you won in numbers. And you did not waste your investment, in effort and time. You invested in hope. You earned the future. It’s an investment for change. Your effort was not in vain,” Chamisa stated.

The former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) president accused the ruling regime of weaponizing state institutions to suppress the popular will.

“We have been up against a tyranny held together by state abuse, repression, and coercion. A tyranny that has denied the will of the people, not because you were wrong, but because they are afraid of you—the great majority, the people of Zimbabwe,” Chamisa charged.

Yet, despite the obstacles, Chamisa struck an optimistic tone. “The seed of change has been sown. It is alive and growing. The harvest has been delayed, but it cannot be denied. Delay is not denial.”

Chamisa also praised Zimbabweans, both at home and abroad, for supporting his campaigns and the broader struggle for democracy.

“Some of you spent sleepless nights fundraising on Twitter Spaces. Others knocked on doors, campaigned from house to house, or travelled long distances to attend our rallies,” he said. “Many of our brave comrades were beaten, jailed, or lost to politically motivated violence.”

He was quick to reiterate that while he left the CCC, he has not abandoned the mission for a new Zimbabwe.

“I left CCC but not the mission. CCC was never the destination. It was just the vehicle meant to take us to the New Zimbabwe. When that vehicle was compromised, it became necessary to step out and prepare a better, cleaner, fit-for-purpose vehicle,” he explained.

The former presidential hopeful added: “I’m a man of a mission. I’m a soldier on an assignment. Mine is a calling. That vehicle is coming, and it needs you.”

Chamisa, known for fusing faith with politics, ended with a rallying call grounded in hope and resolve.

“The hope is indestructible. The promise can never be compromised. The path is clear. The plan is solid. #Godisinit. The people have already won in spirit. Now we must complete the journey. Let’s fix it. Let’s finish it,” he said.

Mnangagwa Hails Trabablas Interchange as Milestone Achievement Amid Allegations of Substandard Work and Corruption

By A Correspondent

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has once again taken the spotlight to applaud what he called a major government accomplishment—the completion of the Trabablas Traffic Interchange in Harare—even as mounting criticism points to concerns over its quality and the transparency of its financing.

Speaking during the 384th session of the ZANU PF Politburo at the party’s headquarters in Harare on Wednesday, Mnangagwa praised the project as a reflection of Zimbabweans’ capabilities and innovation. He said the flyover demonstrated how local talent can deliver large-scale infrastructure, even under difficult economic conditions.

He said the interchange is evidence of what can be achieved with homegrown expertise and national commitment, adding that its completion without foreign aid, and despite international sanctions, was something to be proud of. He stated that the youth had shown impressive skill and dedication, and described the project as a symbol of what the country can accomplish if it remains united and determined.

Mnangagwa said, “The recent towering Trabablas Traffic Interchange, which I officially commissioned, stands as an example of the inherent potential in our young people, their ingenuity, skills, and talent.” He added, “The fact that the project was completed using our internal resources and under an environment of sanctions is a source of great national pride.”

He added that the Trabablas project is just one part of a broader national infrastructure strategy, which includes expanding and repairing roads across the country. Mnangagwa said, “If we are united, focused, patriotic and work hard to achieve our national aspirations, nothing is impossible. Other road rehabilitation and construction projects throughout the country are also being prioritised.”

But his remarks were met with a wave of criticism from professionals in the engineering sector and observers who question both the construction quality and the financial dealings behind the interchange. Experts claim the structure does not meet international safety and durability standards, and some have dismissed it as a superficial project designed for political optics.

One Harare-based civil engineer, who requested anonymity, said, “What we have is a rushed job that may look impressive from the air, but lacks the structural sophistication and safety design standards expected of a modern interchange. Corners were clearly cut.”

Beyond structural concerns, there are serious questions about the financial transparency of the project. Sources in the Ministry of Transport allege that tenders were manipulated and contracts handed to companies with political connections. According to one ministry insider, “There was no transparency in how the contractors were selected. Several companies that bid for the project were overlooked in favour of briefcase firms linked to senior officials.”

This isn’t the first time government infrastructure projects under Mnangagwa have come under fire. Critics argue that many of these developments are public relations efforts meant to create an illusion of progress while the country grapples with inflation, poverty, and service delivery failures.

While Mnangagwa continues to present the Trabablas Interchange as a shining example of self-reliance and vision, analysts warn that projects without accountability, proper oversight, and transparency only serve to deepen public distrust in government priorities.

Chamisa Rallies Supporters, Vows to “Fix It and Finish It”

By A Correspondent| Opposition leader Nelson Chamisa has issued a stirring message of appreciation and renewed resolve, vowing to push ahead with his quest for democratic change in Zimbabwe while hinting at the formation of a new political movement following his dramatic departure from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC).

In a lengthy social media post titled “An Appreciation Post,” Chamisa thanked Zimbabweans at home and abroad for their support since he entered the presidential race in 2018, declaring their sacrifices and efforts in pursuit of democratic change were “not in vain.”

“Twice, in 2018 and again in 2023, you stood up, emphatically voted for change, and overwhelmingly chose a new direction for our country,” Chamisa said. “You, the great people of Zimbabwe, wanted a President of your choice… but you were temporarily denied the chance all but twice.”

Chamisa, who narrowly lost disputed elections in both 2018 and 2023, reaffirmed his belief that the majority of Zimbabweans voted for him. “Let it be clear: you won in numbers… Your effort was not in vain. Your sacrifice is not wasted,” he said, accusing the ruling regime of clinging to power through “state abuse, repression, and coercion.”

The former CCC leader, who stepped down from the party earlier this year citing infiltration and sabotage, emphasized that the party was never the end goal. “I left CCC but not the mission,” he said. “When that vehicle was compromised, it became necessary to step out and prepare a better, cleaner, fit-for-purpose vehicle.”

His remarks come amid speculation about the formation of a new political outfit ahead of possible by-elections or future electoral contests. Chamisa said he is currently in consultations, building a fresh “citizens’ team” and strategy aimed at ushering in what he termed the “New Great Zimbabwe.”

Addressing his supporters directly, Chamisa paid tribute to those who donated money, campaigned door-to-door, braved violence, and faced arrest in the push for change. He also acknowledged support from the diaspora and international community, calling it “an inexhaustible supply of floods of solidarity.”

“The harvest has been delayed, but it cannot be denied,” he said. “Stay active. Stay ready. Zimbabwe shall be the land of the free, great and prosperous.”

FULL TEXT: Stay Ready, Chamisa Tells Citizens

Fellow citizens, thank you for your unwavering support ever since I became a Presidential candidate in 2018.

You have walked this journey with me, and are still walking, through hope and heartbreak, through resistance and resilience. Twice, in 2018 and again in 2023, you stood up, emphatically voted for change, and overwhelmingly chose a new direction for our country. You, the great people of Zimbabwe wanted a President of your choice to lead the country but you were temporarily denied the chance all but twice.

Let it be clear: you won in numbers. And you did not waste your investment, in effort and time. You invested in hope. You earned the future. It’s an investment for change. Your effort was not in vain. Your sacrifice is not wasted. Your contribution is not unrecorded. But we have been up against a tyranny held together by state abuse, repression, and coercion. A tyranny that has denied the will of the people, not because you were wrong, but because they are afraid of you, the great majority- the people of Zimbabwe

Yet still, we remain resilient, resolute and unshaken. The seed of change has been sown. It is alive and growing. The harvest has been delayed, but it cannot be denied. Delay is not denial.

Your effort, your faith, your courage; was not in vain. Your sacrifice has not gone unnoticed. Your contribution is recorded in the annals of history and the trajectory of this nation. Future generations will be thankful.

Our approach in 2023 was not the same as 2018, because in the fight against oppression, no strategy is cast in stone. This is a battle of to save lives and to save a nation. We sometimes miss. We sometimes omit. We commit. We adjust. We correct. We keep moving forward until we win. And win we must. None of this would have been possible without you.

Some of you spent sleepless nights fundraising on Twitter Spaces, even raising funds from the citizens. What a remarkable citizens story and achievement! Zimbabweans at home and abroad have consistently and in different ways supported the struggle for freedom and change in Zimbabwe.

Others knocked on doors, campaigned from house to house, or travelled long distances to attend our rallies. Many of our brave comrades were beaten, jailed, or lost to politically motivated violence, a tragic trend that has ugly characterized our politics over the years. We are a nation of great fighters, great warriors. We are a people of faith, but not faith in word only. Ours is a faith backed by action. We win through prayer, but also through planning and acting. We win on our knees, but also in diplomacy, advocacy and on the ground. Your support, spiritual, financial, physical, has kept the hope alive. To the citizens of Zimbabwe, thank you. To the prayer warriors, thank you. To the backers, thank you. To the campaigners and ground soldiers, thank you. To everyone who contributed and continues to believe in us and in a New Great Zimbabwe-the next Zimbabwe, thank you. To the international community and friends who are an inexhaustible supply of floods of solidarity and support, thank you. I want you to know; I am not idle. I am consulting. I am building. I am assembling a new strategy and a citizens’ team that will carry and pivot this nation unto greatness and stardom. I left CCC but not the mission. All because CCC was never the destination. It was just the vehicle meant to take us to the New Zimbabwe. When that vehicle was compromised, it became necessary to step out and prepare a better, cleaner, fit-for-purpose vehicle.

The hope is indestructible. The promise can never be compromised. The path is clear. The plan is solid #Godisinit The people have already won in spirit. Now we must complete the journey.

Let’s fix it.

Let’s finish it.

Stay active.

Stay ready.

Zimbabwe shall be the land of the free, great and prosperous God bless you. God bless Zimbabwe

Forever and always ~nc

Former Pupil Remembers His Roots at Kondo Primary School

By Effort Manono| Green and white symbols of life and peace now shine brighter at Kondo Primary School, thanks to the generous gesture of a former pupil, Edson Mabika. Remembering the foundation that helped shape his life, Mabika donated fifteen soccer jerseys and two FIFA-approved soccer balls to his alma mater.

This donation addressed a long-standing challenge at the school: the lack of proper soccer kits. Until now, learners were still using jerseys passed down from generations, dating back to the 1990s.

Edson Mabika, who once captained the Kondo Primary soccer team to a national championship, proudly brought home a trophy that placed the school firmly on the map as a powerhouse in school sports.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Gondai Mariya, Vice Chairperson of the School Development Committee, expressed her initial scepticism when Mabika first reached out.

“When he approached me, I wasn’t sure if it would really happen,” she said. “After the zonal competitions, I contacted him and reminded him of his promise. He responded, ‘Let me work on it.’ Not long after, he sent me photos of different soccer kits and asked us to choose. He delivered exactly what we agreed upon.

Mariya continued,
“We collected the parcel on Monday and today, Friday, we officially handed it over to the school. We are grateful for his generosity and urge other former pupils to follow his example and help transform Kondo into a state-of-the-art school.”

Receiving the donation with a smile, school head Mr. Matsairire thanked Mabika for his commitment and vision.

“On behalf of the school, we are deeply grateful. Edson lives by the principle that a place is developed by its own people. We invite all former pupils to join us in improving Kondo academically, structurally, and in all areas, including classrooms, furniture, teachers’ housing, modern boards, and sports facilities.”

The school’s Sports Director echoed the appreciation, highlighting the impact the new kits will have on morale and performance.

“Words alone are not enough to express our gratitude. This kit will greatly enhance our team’s performance. We still face challenges, especially in other sporting disciplines like volleyball, netball, basketball, tennis, and more. We also aim to introduce new sports such as table tennis, foot golf, and cricket, but we currently lack the equipment and facilities.”

Kondo Primary is not only known for its sporting achievements. It once held a proud legacy in percussion and music, and with renewed support, the school is striving to revive its excellence in arts and academics while raising its pass rate and creating a vibrant learning environment for all.

Politburo Imposes Blackout on Tagwirei — ZANU-PF Rejects Mnangagwa’s Power Play

By Farai D Hove | ZimEye | ZANU-PF’s powerful Politburo has slammed the door shut on Kudakwashe Tagwirei’s controversial co-option into the Central Committee, dealing a humiliating blow to both the fuel magnate and his top political backer — President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

In a moment described by insiders as “a complete blackout”, only two out of 49 Politburo members — Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi and veteran Omega Hungwe — supported Tagwirei’s elevation. The move was resoundingly rejected by key figures including Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, Obert Mpofu, Patrick Chinamasa, Christopher Mutsvangwa, and others, signalling a seismic shift within ZANU-PF’s internal power dynamics.

The blackout is not just a personal setback for Tagwirei — it is a principled rejection of Mnangagwa’s alleged strategy to consolidate control of the party through backdoor manoeuvres and moneyed proxies.

This dramatic repudiation comes just days after Vice President Chiwenga reportedly blocked a planned donation of luxury vehicles from Tagwirei to Politburo members, widely seen as an attempted inducement ahead of the vote. The rejection of both the donation and the co-option makes clear that a growing bloc within ZANU-PF is now actively resisting what they describe as the creeping corporate capture of the party.

Adding fuel to the political fire, ZANU-PF Women’s League deputy chairperson and cabinet minister Monica Mutsvangwa — wife of Politburo heavyweight Chris Mutsvangwa — last week issued a thinly veiled attack on Tagwirei and Mnangagwa’s leadership style.

Speaking at a party meeting, Mutsvangwa warned against “kitchen cabinet politics” and the corrupting power of money, saying:

“We will not accept things that are decided at someone’s home,” — a direct reference to the President’s Precabe Farm, now viewed by many as an unofficial power base used to override party structures.

She went further, rebuking Tagwirei’s unchecked influence:

“Hatidi vanhu vanofunga kuti vanogona kushandisa mari ku divider vanhu… If money was what kept someone in power, Ian Smith would still be ruling today.”

Her remarks reflect a growing revolt within ZANU-PF against what critics call the monetisation of loyalty and the erosion of democratic processes in party affairs.

Multiple sources confirm that the failed co-option was not simply delayed or referred for review — it was flatly rejected, with some members reportedly vowing never to legitimise Tagwirei’s involvement in the party hierarchy.

Deputy Minister Tino Machakaire is said to have lobbied intensively overnight, urging Politburo members to oppose the appointment, while Fidelity Printers chair Godwills Masimirembwa reportedly told colleagues he had been pressured into supporting the bid by Obert Mpofu, whom he described as his “political godfather.”

The implications are wide-reaching. Tagwirei, long considered the financial lifeline of Mnangagwa’s political machinery, has now been publicly disowned by the party’s core leadership.

More critically, the rejection represents the first direct and unified resistance to Mnangagwa from within both the Politburo and his own Presidium, casting serious doubt on his bid to secure an unconstitutional third term in 2030.

“This was a vote of no confidence in the use of money and shadow networks to run the party,” one Politburo member said. “The blackout on Tagwirei is the loudest rejection Mnangagwa has received since he took power in 2017.”

With the party’s core structures now reasserting themselves, analysts say Mnangagwa’s authority has been fatally undermined and the battle for post-2028 leadership is now fully in motion — without him or his proxies at the helm.

Developing…

The Delusion of Deep Pockets: Why Money Misreads Its Power in Politics

By Glen Mpani| In every election cycle, a familiar figure emerges — the wealthy hopeful, the moneyed messiah, armed with vaults of cash and the arrogant conviction that power is for sale.

They arrive with billboards before beliefs, slogans before soul, and jets before journey. Their campaign is choreographed in boardrooms, not birthed in communities. They confuse transaction for transformation. And they almost always make the same fatal mistake: They mistake money for movement.

Money is a tool. Yes. But it is not a voice, not a value, not a vision. You can rent applause, but not loyalty. You can drown the airwaves, but not ignite hearts. You can even buy silence, but never trust.

Power, real power, is earned in the trenches of truth, not wired through bank transfers. History is littered with the graves of the rich who thought they could shortcut the soul of politics. They failed to understand that politics is not a business deal. It is a battle of belief. They forgot that the poor, the marginalised, the weary majority, have something money cannot buy: a story, a wound, a cause.

These are the invisible currencies of politics, the ones that rally the ground and electrify the ballot. These are what carried leaders from prison cells to presidencies, from exiles to exaltation, not platinum cards but purpose. The irony? Those with the least often understand the stakes the most.

And those with the most often understand the people the least. Every time a rich man enters the arena thinking his wallet is his weapon, he reminds us why revolutions are never led by billionaires.

Movements are born in hunger and hope, not in luxury and entitlement. Money can amplify a message, but it cannot manufacture one. It can oil the machine, but it cannot summon the spirit.

So let this be a warning to the oligarchs, the tycoons, the trust fund warriors seeking office: if you bring only your money to this fight, you will lose to someone with nothing but a cause. Because in politics, money is necessary, but never sufficient. And the arrogance that it is, is the very reason why so many with everything… end up with nothing.

Liverpool Striker Diogo Jota Has Died

English Premier League giants, Liverpool forward Diogo Jota has been killed in a car crash, according to a report in Spanish newspaper Marca.

The publication claims the Portugal international was in an accident in the Zamora province. He was 28.

He was reportedly travelling with his brother Andre, who was also killed, when the car came off the road and was engulfed in flames.

ZEC Caught Planning To Steal 2028 Polls

By A Correspondent- The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has unveiled what it terms “gender and disability inclusion policies,” which critics say are the latest smokescreen in its strategic plan to rig the 2028 general elections.

The new framework, covering the period 2025 to 2029, was launched in Harare on Wednesday under the guise of promoting inclusive democratic processes. ZEC claims the policies are designed to enhance the participation of women and persons with disabilities in all aspects of the electoral cycle — including voting, candidate registration, voter education, and the provision of accessible polling infrastructure.

“Successful implementation hinges on the active participation of all stakeholders. We want to affirm our commitment to ensuring every citizen is afforded an opportunity to exercise their democratic rights,” said ZEC Chairperson, Justice Priscilla Chigumba, adding that the gender policy “provides equal opportunities for men and women to actively participate in democratic elections.”

However, critics view this as part of a well-worn strategy by ZEC to present a reformist image while laying the groundwork for yet another compromised election. Over the years, the electoral body has faced widespread allegations of partisanship, ballot manipulation, voter roll fraud, and opaque handling of election results — charges that have consistently undermined public trust in Zimbabwe’s electoral processes.

The newly launched policies are aligned with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), which the government claims promote inclusive governance and social justice. Yet, observers argue that such alignments merely reinforce ZEC’s subservience to the ruling Zanu PF party and its long-term political survival project.

“The policies, including the strategic plan, are tailor-made to enhance equal participation of all stakeholders in electoral processes. It is in sync with NDS1 and in tandem with Vision 2030. The vision can only become a reality through addressing gender parity,” said Deputy Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Advocate Norbert Mazungunye.

Wednesday’s launch drew participation from the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, the National Disability Board, UN Women, and several civil society organisations. But critics remain skeptical, viewing these events as performative efforts that mask a deeper, more calculated agenda.

ZEC says it will now embark on a stakeholder engagement drive to operationalise the new framework ahead of the next election cycle — a move analysts fear will merely recycle old tactics under a new, inclusive-sounding label.

Air Zimbabwe Clears Its US$1 Million Debt

By Business Reporter-Struggling national airline, Air Zimbabwe, says it has cleared more than US$1 million in arrears owed to key international service providers—a milestone the company hopes will mark the beginning of its reintegration into the global aviation system.

The debt clearance paves the way for Air Zimbabwe to rejoin global ticketing and code-sharing platforms, significantly enhancing its visibility and accessibility to international travelers.

Air Zimbabwe Chief Executive Officer, Mr Edmund Makona, made the announcement in Victoria Falls on Tuesday, noting that the move is part of the airline’s broader turnaround strategy.

“We asked ourselves: what’s on the critical path to our revival? Visibility on global selling platforms was top. Without it, we couldn’t do code-sharing or interlining. Now, with shareholder support, we have cleared most of the debt,” said Makona.

The airline is now integrating its systems with global distribution networks (GDS), the backbone of international travel bookings. The integration process is expected to take up to three months, after which passengers worldwide will be able to book Air Zimbabwe flights through any travel agent or partner airline.

However, Air Zimbabwe’s return to global platforms follows years of decline marked by gross mismanagement, political interference, and systemic corruption. Once one of Africa’s most promising airlines, Air Zimbabwe was crippled by patronage politics and unsustainable operational practices.

Government officials and politically connected executives were often accused of looting resources, inflating procurement costs, and awarding unviable contracts. This endemic corruption, coupled with the airline’s inability to meet international safety and service standards, led to its suspension from major global platforms.

In 2011, the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) imposed sanctions on Air Zimbabwe due to outstanding debts and non-compliance with industry requirements. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) also delisted the airline from its billing and settlement plan, making it difficult for travel agents to sell its tickets.

Over the past decade, Air Zimbabwe has operated largely in isolation—cut off from international partnerships, burdened by a bloated workforce, and reliant on a dwindling fleet of outdated aircraft.

Tourism stakeholders have welcomed the latest development as a much-needed boost for the sector.

“That is a big leap in the right direction. It’s a serious enabler of increased inbound travel by tourists. This new chapter in national colours is something to celebrate,” said tourism executive Clement Mukwasi. “With immigration now fully online, we anticipate a surge in international tourist arrivals.”

The revival plan, backed by government support, includes modernizing the airline’s fleet, improving service delivery, and enhancing operational efficiency.

While the debt clearance marks a step forward, analysts say sustained reforms, transparency, and professional management will be critical if Air Zimbabwe is to regain its former stature and become a competitive player in regional and international aviation.

VP Chiwenga Blocks Tagwirei Car Donations

By A Correspondent – Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has blocked a controversial donation of brand-new vehicles from businessman Kuda Tagwirei to Zanu PF Politburo members. The move follows the Politburo’s rejection of Tagwirei’s co-option into the Central Committee and its dismissal of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s 2030 succession agenda.

The dramatic sequence of events has left Mnangagwa politically exposed and internally isolated, with his own Presidium openly defying him, and the ruling party’s top executive arm — the Politburo — rejecting him in principle.
Sources inside the heated Politburo meeting confirmed that only two out of 49 members — Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi and Politburo stalwart Omega Hungwe — supported the move to parachute Tagwirei into the Central Committee. The rest, led by Vice President Chiwenga, Secretary for Administration Obert Mpofu, Christopher Mutsvangwa, and Patrick Chinamasa, voted the proposal down.
The rejection is widely seen as a fatal blow to Mnangagwa’s efforts to entrench loyalists in key positions and engineer a path to a third term beyond 2028.
But the most telling sign of resistance came before the meeting, when Chiwenga reportedly intercepted and blocked a plan for Tagwirei to donate luxury vehicles to Politburo members — a gesture critics described as a blatant bribe intended to curry favour ahead of the vote.
“The vehicle scheme was a red line,” said a senior party figure. “Chiwenga was clear — party loyalty cannot be bought with cars, and Tagwirei cannot buy a seat at the table,” said one source speaking on condition of anonymity.
Even Munyaradzi Machacha, often seen as Tagwirei’s political handler, remained conspicuously silent throughout the session — signalling that even those previously aligned with the controversial businessman were unwilling to defend the move.
Insiders say Deputy Minister Tino Machakaire, along with other emerging power brokers, worked through the night lobbying Politburo members to reject the co-option. Meanwhile, Fidelity Printers chairman Godwills Masimirembwa — who initially backed the idea — is rumoured to have told confidantes he had been pressured into it by his “political godfather” Obert Mpofu.
The failed co-option is being widely interpreted as a referendum on Mnangagwa’s future, and analysts say the President’s authority within ZANU-PF is now severely compromised.
“This isn’t just a political loss — it’s a personal rejection,” one observer noted. “Mnangagwa’s blueprint for 2030 hinged on Tagwirei’s influence and resources. Now, both have been publicly rejected by the very structures that are supposed to protect him.”
With the Politburo and key members of the Presidium clearly breaking ranks, the path to a 2030 candidacy for Mnangagwa appears blocked — not by the opposition, but by his own party machinery.
The message from ZANU-PF is now unmistakably clear: the era of Mnangagwa may be coming to an end.
Developing story…

Prune Like a Pro: Expert Tips to Keep Your Garden Healthy and Blooming All Year

PRESS RELEASE

PERENNIAL PERFECTION: PRUNING SECRETS FOR LASTING GARDEN BEAUTY

Though traditionally viewed as a winter task, pruning is most effective when done thoughtfully throughout the year. According to garden expert Alec Philp, Director at Cutting Edge, knowing what to prune and when to do it is the real secret to maintaining a garden that is not only beautiful but thriving.

“This may seem a formidable task to the uninitiated,” Philp says, “but if you follow a simple schedule, you will reap the rewards of your investment and enjoy a beautiful garden year-round.”

Beyond appearance, regular pruning plays a vital role in maintaining plant health, controlling growth, and boosting flower and fruit production. Philp outlines three key reasons why every gardener should make pruning part of their seasonal routine:

1. Healthier Plants:
“Dead, diseased, or damaged branches are an open invitation to fungi, bacteria, and pests,” Philp explains. “Removing them protects the rest of the plant and encourages new, vigorous growth.”

2. Controlled Growth and Shape:
“Pruning helps manage overgrowth and supports a garden’s structure,” he says. “It’s essential for shaping hedges, balancing plants, and even enhancing security by keeping overgrowth at bay.”

3. Increased Blooms and Fruit:
“Plants need light to bloom,” says Philp. “By pruning strategically, especially in dense areas, you allow more sunlight to reach the plant’s inner branches. This stimulates flower bud formation and improves fruit yield.”

To achieve the best results, Philp shares three essential pruning techniques every gardener should master:

– Thinning Cuts: Remove entire branches at their base to increase airflow and light. “Thinning keeps a plant’s natural shape while preventing fungal infections,” he explains.

– Heading Cuts: Trim branches to a specific length to promote dense, compact growth. “This encourages new shoots from the buds just below your cut.”

– Rejuvenation Pruning: For plants that are leggy or misshapen, Philp recommends cutting them back to 15–60 cm above the ground. “This resets growth and is best done during dormancy—though not all species tolerate it.”

Philp also stresses the importance of proper technique. “Always cut at a 45-degree angle just above a bud,” he advises. “And never cut too close or too far from the node. Too close can damage new growth, too far can lead to dieback and disease.”

Another common mistake? Using sealers. “Do not apply any wound sealant,” Philp warns. “They create a moist environment that attracts bacteria and fungi. A clean cut in the right place will heal naturally.”

Having the right tools is just as critical as the method itself. Philp recommends high-quality equipment from Husqvarna, including:

  • Pole saws for reaching higher branches or thick limbs over 5–8 cm in diameter
  • Chainsaws for quick work on large limbs
  • Hand pruning saws for clean, controlled cuts on smaller branches

“Always keep your tools sharp and clean,” he says. “This ensures clean cuts and prevents spreading disease from plant to plant. And don’t forget to wear proper PPE—your safety comes first.”

With the right knowledge, tools, and timing, pruning becomes a manageable and rewarding part of garden care. “It doesn’t need to be a daunting task,” concludes Philp. “Do it correctly, and it will pay dividends throughout the seasons.”

For pruning tools and expert advice, visit your local Husqvarna dealer or go to https://www.husqvarna.com/zw/.

ZEC Prepares 2028 Poll Rigging Strategies

By A Correspondent-The controversial Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) has unveiled what it terms “gender and disability inclusion policies,” which critics say are the latest smokescreen in its strategic plan to rig the 2028 general elections.

The new framework, covering the period 2025 to 2029, was launched in Harare on Wednesday under the guise of promoting inclusive democratic processes. ZEC claims the policies are designed to enhance the participation of women and persons with disabilities in all aspects of the electoral cycle — including voting, candidate registration, voter education, and the provision of accessible polling infrastructure.

“Successful implementation hinges on the active participation of all stakeholders. We want to affirm our commitment to ensuring every citizen is afforded an opportunity to exercise their democratic rights,” said ZEC Chairperson, Justice Priscilla Chigumba, adding that the gender policy “provides equal opportunities for men and women to actively participate in democratic elections.”

However, critics view this as part of a well-worn strategy by ZEC to present a reformist image while laying the groundwork for yet another compromised election. Over the years, the electoral body has faced widespread allegations of partisanship, ballot manipulation, voter roll fraud, and opaque handling of election results — charges that have consistently undermined public trust in Zimbabwe’s electoral processes.

The newly launched policies are aligned with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), which the government claims promote inclusive governance and social justice. Yet, observers argue that such alignments merely reinforce ZEC’s subservience to the ruling Zanu PF party and its long-term political survival project.

“The policies, including the strategic plan, are tailor-made to enhance equal participation of all stakeholders in electoral processes. It is in sync with NDS1 and in tandem with Vision 2030. The vision can only become a reality through addressing gender parity,” said Deputy Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Advocate Norbert Mazungunye.

Wednesday’s launch drew participation from the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, the National Disability Board, UN Women, and several civil society organisations. But critics remain skeptical, viewing these events as performative efforts that mask a deeper, more calculated agenda.

ZEC says it will now embark on a stakeholder engagement drive to operationalise the new framework ahead of the next election cycle — a move analysts fear will merely recycle old tactics under a new, inclusive-sounding label.

Tagwirei Falls

By A Correspondent-ZANU-PF Politburo hasrejected the co-option of his President Mnangagwa’s top ally, fuel tycoon Kudakwashe Tagwirei, into the Central Committee with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga blocking a controversial donation of brand-new vehicles from Tagwirei to Politburo members.

The dramatic sequence of events has left Mnangagwa politically exposed and internally isolated, with his own Presidium openly defying him, and the ruling party’s top executive arm — the Politburo — rejecting him in principle.

Sources inside the heated Politburo meeting confirmed that only two out of 49 members — Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi and Politburo stalwart Omega Hungwe — supported the move to parachute Tagwirei into the Central Committee. The rest, led by Vice President Chiwenga, Secretary for Administration Obert Mpofu, Christopher Mutsvangwa, and Patrick Chinamasa, voted the proposal down.

The rejection is widely seen as a fatal blow to Mnangagwa’s efforts to entrench loyalists in key positions and engineer a path to a third term beyond 2028.

But the most telling sign of resistance came before the meeting, when Chiwenga reportedly intercepted and blocked a plan for Tagwirei to donate luxury vehicles to Politburo members — a gesture critics described as a blatant bribe intended to curry favour ahead of the vote.

“The vehicle scheme was a red line,” said a senior party figure. “Chiwenga was clear — party loyalty cannot be bought with cars, and Tagwirei cannot buy a seat at the table,” said one source speaking on condition of anonymity.

Even Munyaradzi Machacha, often seen as Tagwirei’s political handler, remained conspicuously silent throughout the session — signalling that even those previously aligned with the controversial businessman were unwilling to defend the move.

Insiders say Deputy Minister Tino Machakaire, along with other emerging power brokers, worked through the night lobbying Politburo members to reject the co-option. Meanwhile, Fidelity Printers chairman Godwills Masimirembwa — who initially backed the idea — is rumoured to have told confidantes he had been pressured into it by his “political godfather” Obert Mpofu.

The failed co-option is being widely interpreted as a referendum on Mnangagwa’s future, and analysts say the President’s authority within ZANU-PF is now severely compromised.

“This isn’t just a political loss — it’s a personal rejection,” one observer noted. “Mnangagwa’s blueprint for 2030 hinged on Tagwirei’s influence and resources. Now, both have been publicly rejected by the very structures that are supposed to protect him.”

With the Politburo and key members of the Presidium clearly breaking ranks, the path to a 2030 candidacy for Mnangagwa appears blocked — not by the opposition, but by his own party machinery.

The message from ZANU-PF is now unmistakably clear: the era of Mnangagwa may be coming to an end.

Developing story…

Masakadza, Ervine Shine Despite Chevrons Defeat To South Africa

Sports Correspondent

Zimbabwe’s hopes of mounting a comeback were dashed as South Africa romped to a commanding 328-run victory in the first Test at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo on Tuesday.

Despite a spirited 83-run seventh-wicket stand between captain Craig Ervine and bowler Wellington Masakadza, Zimbabwe were bowled out for 208 while chasing an improbable target of 537.

South African all-rounder Corbin Bosch starred with both bat and ball, notching up a maiden Test century before claiming a five-wicket haul to dismantle the Zimbabwean batting lineup. His performance earned him Player of the Match honors in what was a dominant display by a largely rotated Proteas side.

Zimbabwe resumed day four on 32-1, needing an unlikely 505 more runs for victory. However, Bosch struck with the first delivery of the day, dismissing Nick Welch and setting the tone for another collapse.

Captain Ervine voiced his frustration after the defeat, pointing to his team’s inability to convert starts into substantial scores.

“From a batting perspective, a few guys got starts, including myself, but we need to go on and get hundreds. Thirties and forties won’t cut it at this level,” he said.

The loss sees Zimbabwe trail 0-1 in the two-match Test series, with plenty of questions to answer ahead of the second Test.

FC Platinum Star Midfielder Burial Set For Thursday

Sports Correspondent

The late FC Platinum midfielder Brian Banda, who tragically lost his life in a car accident along the Zvishavane–Bulawayo highway on Sunday, will be laid to rest this Thursday at West Park Cemetery in Bulawayo.

Banda’s sudden passing has left the local football community in deep mourning. Despite fierce rivalries on the pitch, players from various teams came together in a touching display of unity, gathering in Cowdray Park, Bulawayo, on Tuesday to pay their final respects.

The atmosphere was heavy with grief, as teammates and opponents alike struggled to come to terms with the loss of a player they regarded as both a friend and a brother off the field. The sense of camaraderie and mutual respect that defined Banda’s relationships was clear in the emotional tributes shared during the memorial.

His untimely death has shaken the football fraternity, with many expressing sorrow over the loss of such a talented and well-loved figure.

Banda’s burial will take place on Thursday at West Park Cemetery in Bulawayo, where family, friends, teammates, and supporters will gather to honour his memory and bid him a final farewell.

🛑 Mnangagwa’s 2030 Agenda Collapses — Politburo Rejects Tagwirei, Chiwenga Blocks Car Donations in Stunning Blow to President

Harare – 2 July 2025

By Farai D Hove | President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s long-speculated 2030 presidential ambitions have hit a brick wall after the ZANU-PF Politburo rejected the co-option of his top ally, fuel tycoon Kudakwashe Tagwirei, into the Central Committee — and in a further embarrassment, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga blocked a controversial donation of brand-new vehicles from Tagwirei to Politburo members.

ZANU PF HQ

The dramatic sequence of events has left Mnangagwa politically exposed and internally isolated, with his own Presidium openly defying him, and the ruling party’s top executive arm — the Politburo — rejecting him in principle.

Sources inside the heated Politburo meeting confirmed that only two out of 49 members — Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi and Politburo stalwart Omega Hungwe — supported the move to parachute Tagwirei into the Central Committee. The rest, led by Vice President Chiwenga, Secretary for Administration Obert Mpofu, Christopher Mutsvangwa, and Patrick Chinamasa, voted the proposal down.

The rejection is widely seen as a fatal blow to Mnangagwa’s efforts to entrench loyalists in key positions and engineer a path to a third term beyond 2028.

But the most telling sign of resistance came before the meeting, when Chiwenga reportedly intercepted and blocked a plan for Tagwirei to donate luxury vehicles to Politburo members — a gesture critics described as a blatant bribe intended to curry favour ahead of the vote.

“The vehicle scheme was a red line,” said a senior party figure. “Chiwenga was clear — party loyalty cannot be bought with cars, and Tagwirei cannot buy a seat at the table,” said one source speaking on condition of anonymity.

Even Munyaradzi Machacha, often seen as Tagwirei’s political handler, remained conspicuously silent throughout the session — signalling that even those previously aligned with the controversial businessman were unwilling to defend the move.

Insiders say Deputy Minister Tino Machakaire, along with other emerging power brokers, worked through the night lobbying Politburo members to reject the co-option. Meanwhile, Fidelity Printers chairman Godwills Masimirembwa — who initially backed the idea — is rumoured to have told confidantes he had been pressured into it by his “political godfather” Obert Mpofu.

The failed co-option is being widely interpreted as a referendum on Mnangagwa’s future, and analysts say the President’s authority within ZANU-PF is now severely compromised.

“This isn’t just a political loss — it’s a personal rejection,” one observer noted. “Mnangagwa’s blueprint for 2030 hinged on Tagwirei’s influence and resources. Now, both have been publicly rejected by the very structures that are supposed to protect him.”

With the Politburo and key members of the Presidium clearly breaking ranks, the path to a 2030 candidacy for Mnangagwa appears blocked — not by the opposition, but by his own party machinery.

The message from ZANU-PF is now unmistakably clear: the era of Mnangagwa may be coming to an end.

Developing story…

Sithule Tshuma Must Be Held Accountable” Bulawayo Women Respond to Qoki Land Scandal Cover-Up


By ZimEye Investigations Desk | Comment

Zimbabwean women from Bulawayo, South Africa, Zambia, United Kingdom, USA, Australia, South Africa, and Canada have joined forces in response to a WhatsApp statement by Sithule Tshuma, founder of Qoki Zindlovukazi, issued on June 27. Her post titled “Douglasdale 1 & 3 – Where Do We Truly Stand?” has now sparked a coordinated rebuttal from affected investors — calling it “distorted, misleading, and a disgraceful attempt at deflecting responsibility.”

What started in 2020 as ”seemingly’ ” a women’s empowerment project has now unfolded into what victims describe as a deliberate act of financial misrepresentation, with growing legal scrutiny across various jurisdictions.


🧾 “The Trust Was Broken – This Is Not Empowerment, It’s Exploitation”

Women investors say the issue has never been about the physical existence of land. The core problem remains the lack of legal ownership, missing title deeds, and no protective contracts linking their payments to the land parcels they purchased and were promised by Sithule Tshuma.

As a vocal investor writes:

“You gave us the impression it was Qoki the vehicle. In reality, you used your personal company. That’s misrepresentation. Why didn’t you tell us from the beginning that this was a private, for-profit enterprise?”

Investors now feel betrayed — not just by the financial outcome, but by the trust they placed in a fellow Zimbabwean woman who claimed to be building generational wealth for Matebeleland women.


📜 LEGAL PERSPECTIVE: Breaches of Contract, Fiduciary Duty, and UK Financial Conduct

Based on documentation, legal experts identify the following serious concerns:


1. Misrepresentation & Breach of Contract (UK & Zimbabwe)

Many investors were never told that the land would be owned under Sithule Tshuma’s personal or business entity, rather than held in cooperative trust. This violates:

  • UK Misrepresentation Act 1967 – particularly where material facts were withheld during the formation of agreement
  • Basic contractual law in Zimbabwe, where verbal and informal agreements still constitute a binding relationship in property transactions

Investors had no legal recourse, no signed agreements confirming ownership, and no documentation disclosing the true nature of the investment vehicle.


2. Breach of Fiduciary Duty

Sithule Tshuma positioned herself as a community leader and organiser in a role of trust. By doing so, she assumed fiduciary responsibilities, whether formalised or not.

In fiduciary law:

“Anyone who controls the assets of others or acts on their behalf with expectation of benefit has a legal duty to act in good faith, disclose conflicts of interest, and avoid self-dealing.”

Yet, Sithule:

  • Collected funds from individuals
  • Purchased land under her own company
  • Maintained sole control of titles and negotiations
  • Shifted refund terms without agreement

This is consistent with breach of fiduciary duty.


3. Abuse of Professional Position (UK)

As a registered nurse with the NMC, Tshuma is bound by the NMC Code of Conduct, which includes:

  • “Uphold the reputation of your profession at all times”
  • “Act with honesty and integrity”
  • “Declare any conflicts of interest”

Her use of her professional credibility to gain trust in a separate, undocumented business enterprise is a violation of NMC standards — and multiple complaints have been filed.


4. Unregulated Financial Activity

The financial transactions — all conducted in the UK — were substantial. With no license to provide investment services or act as a fund manager or agent, Sithule’s activities may fall under:

  • UK Financial Services and Markets Act 2000
  • Anti-Money Laundering regulations since funds were pooled and not reported appropriately

These laws prohibit individuals from collecting investment funds from the public without registration or compliance processes. Sithule Tshuma was not registered or licensed to perform such investments.


🔁 Shifting Narratives: From Refunds to Developers

Victims say Sithule Tshuma originally promised full refunds for those who wanted out — and several women did receive theirs. However, once the scale grew, she changed the terms:

  • Then told women to “find your own buyers”
  • Now claims developers will resell land and issue refunds

All of this is being done without signed agreements, without consent, and with no guarantee of delivery — and the land remains legally under her name or that of her business.


🗣️ Community Voices: “We Were Sent to the Lawyers. So We Went.”

In her statement, Sithule accuses the women of attacking her instead of “working together.” But victims say they were left no choice.

“She told us on live video with Zenzele Ndebele that she wouldn’t deal with us and to go to the lawyers,” say victims. “Now she wants to pretend she was trying to resolve it? She insulted the elders who tried to mediate on a Bulawayo Revival platform and blocked all of us from speaking out.”


💰 What About the Land Value Today?

The Douglasdale women paid between $8,000 to $15,000 USD as early as 2020. Since then, land in Douglasdale has appreciated significantly. Yet Sithule continues referring to outdated refund figures, with no updated valuations, no financial audits, and no discussion of accrued land equity.


🧨 Women Demand Justice – Loud and Clear

The investors continue to demand:

✅ Immediate adjusted-value refunds
✅ Legal exit options, not silence or bullying
✅ The right to independently develop or sell their land
✅ A full audit of financial activity and legal ownership
✅ Final outcomes of investigations by the NMC, ZACC, ZRP, UK Action Fraud, and the Law Society of Zimbabwe


⚠️ Final Word: “This Was Not Empowerment — It Was Exploitation in a Headwrap.”

Douglasdale women say they are no longer afraid to speak.

“This was never empowerment,” said one victim. “It was exploitation, dressed up in culture and community. And it stops now.”

📢 If you’ve been affected or have documentation:
📧 Email or call ZimEye


This is an ongoing investigation. ZimEye will continue to expose any Qoki Sithule fraudulent scandals.


Sex Scandal US Televangelist Dies

By A Correspondent – Sex scandal Yesteryear US televangelist Jimmy Swaggart has died.

He was 90.

Swaggart was one of the United States’ most influential televangelists during the 1980s until a scandal involving a prostitute brought his soaring career to an abrupt halt.

Jimmy Swaggart Ministries confirmed his death via Facebook. His family expressed gratitude to the medical staff at Baton Rouge General Medical Center in Louisiana. The cause of death was not disclosed.

At the height of his career as a fiery Pentecostal preacher, Swaggart reached an estimated global audience of 200 million. That influence came crashing down in 1988 when he tearfully confessed to his congregation, without offering specifics, that he had “sinned”—following revelations of his involvement with a sex worker.

Born on March 15, 1935, in the racially segregated backwaters of Ferriday, Louisiana, Swaggart grew up alongside two cousins who also rose to fame—rock ‘n’ roll legend Jerry Lee Lewis and country music star Mickey Gilley.

Immersed from an early age in Pentecostalism’s fervent, emotional style of worship, Swaggart claimed to have received a divine calling at age nine: “You will preach my Gospel all over the world. You will even take it to Africa,” he said God told him.

He left school early, doing manual labor before marrying 15-year-old Frances Anderson at age 17. Inspired by the rise of revivalists like Oral Roberts, Swaggart began preaching on street corners and in rural churches. By 1969, he had launched The Camp Meeting Hour radio show, and by 1973, his sermons were airing on television, catapulting him to stardom.

A staunch conservative, Swaggart often stirred controversy with his attacks on Catholics, Jews, and the LGBTQ+ community. He became a leading figure in the rise of the U.S. religious right, using his platform to push for public policy grounded in biblical doctrine. His international crusades took him to Latin America and even apartheid-era South Africa, where he drew crowds in places like Soweto.

The New York Times reported that his 1988 scandal was exposed by rival preacher Marvin Gorman, who supplied compromising photos and claimed Swaggart had falsely accused him of adultery.

In February that year, a sobbing Swaggart stood before the congregation at his Family Worship Center in Baton Rouge, begging for forgiveness. However, the Assemblies of God defrocked him after he refused a proposed suspension.

Further damage to his reputation came in 1991 when California police found him with another prostitute following a traffic stop. Though he initially announced plans to step down, he later told his congregation, “The Lord told me it’s flat none of your business.”

Swaggart, who had once railed against pornography and immorality, drew fresh backlash in 2004 for declaring on his TV show that if a gay man approached him sexually, “I’m going to kill him and tell God he died” — a remark he later dismissed as a joke.

Although his influence waned after the scandals, his ministry endured in a diminished form. He continued to appear on cable TV occasionally, with his son Donnie playing a central role in keeping the ministry alive.

Swaggart is survived by his wife Frances and their son Donnie.

Source – Reuters

Chatunga Goes Scot-Free

By Crime and Courts Reporter – A Concession Magistrate Monday freed the late former President Robert Mugabe’s son, Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe, on US$200 bail along with his two bodyguards, following allegations of a violent assault on mine security guards in Mazowe.

The three are facing five counts of assault stemming from an incident at Ultimate Mine on June 25, where they allegedly attacked security personnel while pursuing illegal gold miners.

Chatunga is jointly charged with Petee Fredson and Tinashe Mupawo. Other members of his security team, said to have participated in the attacks, are still at large.

According to court documents, the accused confronted the guards—Ntandoyokuza Nyathi, Philip Chipara, Elvis Bvumbe, Collen Muchemwa, and Waddington Mutadza—accusing them of protecting the fleeing miners. 

One of the suspects reportedly fired a gunshot before the group launched a brutal assault using fists, booted feet, wooden logs, a sjambok, and an iron bar.

One guard was allegedly forced to carry a sack of gold ore to the accused’s base, where the assault continued. The victims sustained multiple injuries and were treated at hospital after reporting the matter to police.

The assaults allegedly included handcuffing and beating at least two guards, with attacks continuing even after attempts to intervene.

The matter is being handled at the Concession Magistrates’ Court as investigations continue.

Dynamos FC Dodge FIFA Transfer Ban After Settling Player Debts

Sports Correspondent

Faltering Harare giants Dynamos FC have narrowly avoided a FIFA-imposed transfer ban after settling outstanding salaries owed to former Ghanaian players Emmanuel Paga and Frederick Ansah-Botchway.

The club had been given a 45-day ultimatum by FIFA in May to clear the debts — US$8,500 owed to Paga and US$10,000 to Ansah-Botchway — or face a ban on all transfer activity.

Speaking to NewsDay, Dynamos’ executive member in charge of marketing, David Chikomo, confirmed the payments had been made.

“It’s true that we have paid our dues to our former players Emmanuel Paga and Frederick Ansah-Botchway,” said Chikomo. “It was an issue that was troubling us as a club, considering how much we want to improve our fortunes in the second half of the season.”

Chikomo added that the club can now fully participate in the mid-season transfer window and hopes this marks a turning point for the struggling side.

The news comes as a welcome boost for Dynamos, who have endured a disappointing first half of the campaign. Sitting 17th on the league table with just 15 points from 17 matches, the Glamour Boys are hoping to reinforce their squad in a bid to escape the relegation zone.

Nico Williams’ Barcelona Transfer Uncertain Due To Contract Clause Dispute…

Sports Correspondent

Nico Williams’ highly anticipated move to Barcelona has hit yet another snag, with negotiations now stalling due to a new contractual disagreement.

Despite the Athletic Club winger agreeing in principle to leave Bilbao for Barcelona in a deal worth €58 million, complications continue to plague the transfer. According to Mundo Deportivo, the latest issue revolves around a specific clause that Williams is insisting on including in his contract.

The 22-year-old Spanish international reportedly wants certain guarantees as part of the deal — guarantees that Barcelona are currently unwilling to provide. This demand has led to a deadlock in talks, with neither party showing signs of compromise.

Mundo Deportivo notes that this clause “surfaced in recent days” and has become a significant sticking point, slowing what many expected to be a straightforward transfer.

As it stands, both Williams and Barcelona remain firm in their positions, leaving the deal hanging in uncertainty.

CIO Boss Rapes Lover’s Maid…

By A Correspondent

A senior Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) officer stationed in Gweru, Makopa Manyadze (45), is facing serious legal trouble after being accused of raping a 20-year-old maid employed by his girlfriend.

The case has sparked outrage, with Manyadze — reportedly the Deputy District Intelligence Officer and recently transferred to Gweru — spending the weekend in custody before appearing in court. He was brought before Gweru Regional Magistrate Christopher Maturure and remanded pending a bail hearing that took place on Monday, June 30, 2025.

Although he has since been released on US$200 bail, the gravity of the allegations and his high-ranking position have drawn widespread attention. Human rights activists are calling for a transparent judicial process to ensure justice is served.

Court documents detail the alleged events, which unfolded on the morning of Monday, June 23, 2025. Around 7:00 AM, Manyadze reportedly phoned the young maid, who informed him that her employer — his girlfriend — was not at home. She also advised that there was no reason for him to visit.

Ignoring the warning, the accused is said to have arrived at the residence at around 10:00 AM, entering the premises after the complainant opened the gate. Once inside, Manyadze allegedly instructed the maid to follow him into the house.

It is alleged that inside the kitchen, where there was a bed, he sat down and called the complainant to come closer. When she refused, he allegedly grabbed her by the waist and began fondling her, despite her resistance. He is then said to have thrown her onto the bed, forcibly undressed her, and raped her without protection.

After the assault, the accused reportedly told the complainant to get dressed and see him out of the property.

The incident came to light after the maid confided in her twin sister in Bulawayo, who encouraged her to report it. Her mother later took the matter to the police, leading to Manyadze’s arrest.

The case remains under investigation, with the public closely monitoring developments due to the sensitive nature of the allegations and the accused’s powerful position.

Judiciary Bows to Pressure, Cancels Judges’ Ideology Training After Lawyers Protest Threat

By A Correspondent| The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has cancelled a controversial capacity-building workshop for judges that was to be conducted in partnership with the Chitepo School of Ideology, following widespread outrage and threats of protest by the legal community.

The training, originally scheduled for July 4 and 5 at Rainbow Towers Hotel in Harare, was set to introduce judges to the Integrated Results-Based Management (IRBM) system. However, it emerged last week that the training would feature sessions led by officials from the ruling Zanu PF’s Herbert Chitepo School of Ideology and the Central Intelligence Organisation, prompting a fierce backlash from lawyers and civil society.

In a memorandum dated July 2 and addressed to all heads of courts, the JSC Secretary confirmed the cancellation of the workshop, citing ongoing consultations with the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC). The memo stated that the judiciary was re-evaluating the training content to ensure it aligns with the constitutional requirement of judicial independence.

“The decision has been taken to cancel the IRBM training, with the view of coming up with a program content administered by the judiciary and suitable to the requirement for Judicial Independence,” the JSC wrote.

The about-turn follows threats by the Law Society of Zimbabwe and independent lawyers to stage a protest march against what they described as an unconstitutional attempt to politicise the judiciary.

Critics argued that exposing judges to Zanu PF ideological training would severely compromise their impartiality and independence. Some judges were reportedly also uncomfortable with the planned programme.

The JSC said new arrangements would be communicated in due course and instructed court heads to inform all judges of the cancellation.

The cancellation is being viewed as a rare victory for the legal fraternity and civic groups who had accused the government of attempting to erode judicial independence through ideological indoctrination.

Mnangagwa Admits Country’s Health System Is In Deep Crisis

By Tinashe Sambiri

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has made a rare admission about the dismal state of Zimbabwe’s public healthcare system, describing it as “disheartening” and in urgent need of reform.

Speaking during his opening remarks at ZANU PF’s 384th Ordinary Session of the Politburo in Harare on Wednesday, Mnangagwa said he was personally disturbed by what he witnessed during a recent tour of Harare’s major public hospitals.

“Recently, I had the chance to tour the main public health facilities here in Harare. It was disheartening that the situation was allowed to deteriorate,” he said.

While calling for urgent corrective measures, the President fell short of taking direct responsibility for the crisis that has unfolded under his administration. Instead, he challenged all stakeholders — including government departments, the private sector, and ordinary citizens — to work together in rebuilding the sector.

“More is expected from stakeholders. Blame-shifting will not get us anywhere. We must learn from our shortcomings and work hand in hand, as the public sector, private sector and individuals, to build our country,” Mnangagwa said.

Despite leading a government long criticised for underfunding health services, the President’s remarks signal a recognition of the deep-rooted dysfunction. Zimbabwe’s healthcare system has been plagued by crumbling infrastructure, chronic drug shortages, underpaid staff, and an exodus of skilled medical professionals.

Critics argue that mere calls for cooperation are insufficient without bold policy shifts and increased budgetary commitments from the very top. As one health union leader put it off record, “We don’t need statements — we need action. The government is the biggest stakeholder and must lead with serious investment, not rhetoric.”

Mnangagwa’s comments may be viewed as a rare public concession, but many believe the time for words is long past. With hospitals in crisis and ordinary citizens bearing the brunt, pressure continues to mount for tangible reform in Zimbabwe’s healthcare system.

Chatunga Mugabe Brutal Assault Victim Speaks

By A Correspondent

Chatunga Mugabe, son of the late former President Robert Mugabe, has been granted bail amounting to US$200 by the Concession Magistrates Court following his recent arrest on multiple charges.

The 28-year-old is facing seven counts of assault and malicious damage to property after he and his bodyguards allegedly launched a violent attack on mine workers in Mazowe last week.

Victims of the assault have begun speaking out, detailing the brutality of the incident, which has drawn widespread condemnation.

Chatunga spent Monday night in police custody before his court appearance. The case has since raised fresh concerns over impunity and the use of violence by individuals connected to powerful political families.

PFL Africa Heads to Johannesburg August 9 for Second Explosive Showdown


Sports Correspondent, JOHANNESBURG – After a groundbreaking debut in Cape Town, the Professional Fighters League (PFL) is set to return to South Africa with its second PFL Africa event, this time at the Big Top Arena, Carnival City in Johannesburg on Saturday, August 9. The spotlight shifts to the Featherweight and Welterweight divisions, where top African fighters will compete in First Round matchups as the league continues its quest to crown the continent’s first-ever MMA champions.

Tickets for the Johannesburg showdown go on sale Thursday, June 12 via TicketPro, and fans are being urged to book early as excitement builds around the next chapter of this historic MMA tournament.

“Cape Town was just the beginning,” said PFL Africa officials. “Johannesburg promises to take the intensity to the next level as elite African athletes enter the SmartCage to battle for glory, pride, and a place in the semifinals.”

West African Warriors to Headline the Main Event

Headlining the August 9 card is a Featherweight First Round clash between two of West Africa’s finest: Patrick Ocheme (6-1) of Nigeria and Mohamed Camara (5-2-1) of Guinea. With only one loss each and a fierce will to dominate, both fighters enter the cage with national pride and tournament survival on the line.

In the co-main event, Angola’s rising star Shido Boris Esperanca (9-1)—who delivered an impressive victory in his PFL debut—returns to face Gambia’s seasoned veteran Ibrahima Mané (14-5) in a high-octane Welterweight First Round battle.

Continental Stage, Global Broadcast

The PFL Africa tournament, which spans four divisions, will feature 32 fighters from 15 nations in 2025. This ambitious initiative aims to elevate African MMA talent to global prominence while creating champions who will carry the continent’s banner in future PFL international seasons.

Fight fans across Africa can tune in live via SuperSport (English) and Canal+ (French), while global audiences can catch the action on the PFL App (U.S.) and DAZN (UK, France, and Ireland).

PFL Africa Johannesburg Card (Announced Bouts):

Saturday, August 9 – Big Top Arena, Carnival City

  • Featherweight First Round Main Event: Patrick Ocheme (6-1) vs. Mohamed Camara (5-2-1)
  • Welterweight First Round Co-Main Event: Shido Boris Esperanca (9-1) vs. Ibrahima Mané (14-5)

Additional fights will be announced in the coming weeks as PFL continues its mission to showcase Africa’s best on MMA’s fastest-growing global stage.

The road to becoming the first-ever PFL Africa Champion continues—and Johannesburg is the next battleground.

Africa Makes MMA History as PFL Cape Town Delivers Explosive Debut Event July 19


Sports Correspondent, CAPE TOWN – The world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is set for a seismic shift as the Professional Fighters League (PFL) brings its elite global competition to African soil for the first time. On Saturday, July 19, Cape Town’s Grand Arena at GrandWest will host the inaugural PFL Cape Town event, making history as the continent’s first-ever global MMA showcase.

This milestone moment marks the launch of the 2025 PFL Africa Tournament, beginning with First Round matchups in the Heavyweight and Bantamweight divisions. Each weight class will feature an eight-man bracket, spotlighting the continent’s emerging combat talent. These action-packed preliminaries will set the stage for a dramatic night of elite-level MMA as part of the PFL Champions Series, headlined by five high-stakes international bouts.

“PFL Cape Town is more than just a fight night—it’s a historic turning point for African MMA,” said PFL officials in a statement. “We’re bringing top-tier global talent and a platform for African fighters to shine on the world stage.”

Tickets for this groundbreaking event are already on sale via Ticketpro, with the action beginning at 4:30 PM SAST for PFL Africa tournament fights and 8:30 PM SAST for the Champions Series main card.

Main Event: Undefeated Champion Puts Title on the Line

Headlining the night is undefeated Middleweight World Champion Johnny “Pressure” Eblen (16-0), who defends his belt and perfect record against Spain’s powerful contender Costello “The Spaniard” van Steenis (16-3). The co-main event will see Women’s Flyweight phenom Dakota “Dangerous” Ditcheva (14-0) go toe-to-toe with Hawaii’s striking specialist Sumiko “Lady Samurai” Inaba (8-1).

Adding more firepower to the card, former Bellator Featherweight World Champion AJ “Mercenary” McKee (22-2) returns to face Russian powerhouse Akhmed Magomedov (11-1)—a rising star mentored by MMA legend Khabib Nurmagomedov.

Another must-watch bout features 2024 PFL Heavyweight Champion Denis Goltsov (36-8) taking on Light Heavyweight World Champion Corey Anderson (18-6), who moves up a division in this high-stakes clash of titans. Rounding out the Champions Series card, Artur Zaynukov (16-4) takes on Japanese wrestling specialist and RIZIN standout Takeshi Izumi (6-3) in a thrilling lightweight showcase.

Africa’s Best Ready to Shine in PFL Africa Tournament

The PFL Africa Tournament kicks off earlier in the evening, featuring fierce first-round matchups across both weight divisions:

Bantamweight First Round Bouts:

  • Nkosi Ndebele (8-3) vs. Mahmoud Atef (5-2)
  • Shannon Van Tonder (7-2) vs. Boule Godogo (3-0)
  • Antero Dos Santos (5-0) vs. Karim Henniene (4-0)
  • Simbarashe Hokonya (5-0) vs. Alain Majorique (5-0)

Heavyweight First Round Bouts:

  • Maxwell Djantou Nana (6-1) vs. Mikael Groguhe (6-2)
  • Jashell Ticha Awa (3-1) vs. Justin Clarke (2-0)
  • Abdoullah Kane (3-0) vs. Mohammed Ben Yahia (9-4)
  • Abraham Bably (5-2) vs. Badredinne Medkouri (7-2)

Women’s Strawweight Showcase:

  • Juliet Ukah (6-0) vs. Ceileigh Niedermayr (3-2)

The PFL has promised a U.S. broadcast partner announcement soon, allowing international fans to witness this historic African debut live.

Complete PFL Champions Series Card:

Saturday, July 19 – 8:30 PM SAST / 2:30 PM EST

  • Middleweight World Championship Main Event: Johnny Eblen (16-0) vs. Costello van Steenis (16-3)
  • Women’s Flyweight Co-Main Event: Dakota Ditcheva (14-0) vs. Sumiko Inaba (8-1)
  • Featherweight Showcase: AJ McKee (22-2) vs. Akhmed Magomedov (11-1)
  • Lightweight Showcase: Artur Zaynukov (16-4) vs. Takeshi Izumi (6-3)
  • Heavyweight Showcase: Corey Anderson (18-6) vs. Denis Goltsov (36-8)

As PFL brings the global MMA spotlight to Cape Town, African fans and fighters alike will witness a new era for the sport—one where homegrown talent steps into the cage alongside world champions, under the brightest lights the continent has ever seen.

5 Smart Equipment Tips Every Small-Scale Farmer in Africa Needs to Know


By A Correspondent
Choosing the right farming equipment can make or break a small-scale operation, yet many African farmers face costly setbacks due to poor equipment decisions.

Now, Alec Philp, Director at Cutting Edge, is offering a practical five-step guide to help smallholder farmers improve efficiency, productivity, and returns on investment. The full press release from Husqvarna outlines expert advice to support smarter purchasing and better long-term outcomes.

Press Release (as requested, reproduced in full):


PRESS RELEASE

GEARING UP FOR GROWTH
A Small Farmer’s Guide to Smart Equipment Decisions

Running a successful farm starts with having the right tools. On a small farm, the right equipment can help you get more done in less time, make day-to-day tasks easier, and ultimately improve your yield – and your profit.

According to Alec Philp, Director at Cutting Edge, a common challenge for small farmers is knowing which tools are best suited to their specific needs. This can lead to machines being undersized or oversized, or simply not fit for purpose – resulting in underutilisation and farmers not reaping the benefits of their investment.

“Efficient equipment management means matching the right tool to the job,” says Philp. “You want to get the work done quickly, with minimal effort and at the lowest possible operating cost, but that’s not achievable if what you’re using isn’t appropriate for the task or the scale of your operation.”

And with most small-scale farming in Africa relying heavily on manual labour, every efficiency counts. “To get the best results, you need rugged, reliable, and user-friendly equipment that can handle tough conditions and is easy to move between different working areas,” Philp adds.

He shares five key tips to ensure your equipment pulls its weight alongside you:

1. Identify Your Needs
Whether you’re starting out or looking to improve efficiency, the first step is to assess your farm size and the specific tasks that need attention. Are you clearing brush or forest? Spraying? Irrigating? Mowing one hectare or five? Do you need equipment for soil preparation, distribution, or weed control? What about water pumps or generators?

By clearly defining your priorities and workload, you can better match your equipment to your actual needs, avoiding under- or over-investment and ensuring your tools truly support your farm’s productivity.

2. Set Your Budget
Start with your budget, then do your homework. Compare price-to-quality ratios, research performance, and check parts availability and servicing options. Premium machinery costs more upfront but delivers long-term value through genuine spare parts, support, and extended service life.

Match your tools to your farm’s specific tasks and scale. That full-sized tractor might be overkill – consider a compact garden tractor with attachments instead. For spraying, a hand-held unit could be just as effective as a boom sprayer, depending on your task size. Making the right choices for your specific needs ensures efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and ease of use.

3. Choose Multi-Purpose Tools
When space and budget are tight, versatile equipment is your best investment. Why maintain multiple machines that only get occasional use? Multi-purpose tools let small farmers accomplish more with less. Take compact self-drive tillers – they’re cost-effective for soil preparation, and many feature attachments for multiple tasks. Leaf blowers are equally versatile, handling everything from quick cleanup to controlling small grass fires. These multi-purpose machines reduce your need for single-use equipment and are valuable additions to a farmer’s toolkit.

4. Talk to an Expert
You’ll be using this machinery for years, so don’t rush your decision. Speak to experts at authorised dealerships who offer ongoing support, servicing, and spare parts availability. Ask about warranty coverage too. Husqvarna products come with a one-year limited warranty – any factory defects will be repaired or replaced free at authorised workshops.

5. Don’t Overlook Maintenance
Your machinery works hard and needs regular care to perform at its best. That’s why the support network behind your purchase matters. When you need spare parts or quick repairs, you also don’t want to travel far. Ask dealers about general servicing, product training, and expert advice. These value-added services come standard with every Husqvarna product, saving you time and money long-term.

Philp says these five tips can guide you toward smarter equipment choices. But don’t stop there. “Speak to local distributors and chat to fellow farmers,” he advises. “When you combine expert advice with real-world experience, you’ll make informed decisions and choose tools that help your farm run more efficiently and your life easier”.

Find the right tools for your farm at https://www.husqvarna.com/zw/ and browse their full range of small farm equipment.

ENDS


Press Release Disseminated on Behalf of:
Timothy Isabirye
Marketing Manager – Husqvarna South Africa

Disseminated by:
Thulisile Mhlongo
PR Account Executive: Say Watt
071 326 9830


About Husqvarna
Husqvarna, a brand within Husqvarna Group, is a market leader in innovative and high-quality products and services for shaping green spaces in parks, forests and gardens. Since 1689, Swedish-born Husqvarna has a strong focus on research and development and is a pioneer in robotic lawn mowers and chainsaws. Today, the product portfolio consists of the next generation of robotic mowers, riders, chainsaws and trimmers for professional as well as private use. Sustainable value creation, product innovation and digitalization remain important for the journey ahead. Husqvarna products are sold in more than 100 countries. Husqvarna Group, which also includes Gardena and Husqvarna Construction, has 13 300 employees in 40 countries around the world and net sales in 2024 amounted to SEK 48,4 billion. Husqvarna Group is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm.

Zanu PF To Force All Civil Servants To Attend Training At Chitepo School Of Ideology?

By A Correspondent

Zanu PF has stirred controversy once again after announcing that all civil servants will now be required to undergo training at the Chitepo School of Ideology, a move critics describe as a blatant attempt at political indoctrination.

In a statement released Tuesday, the ruling party declared: “Every civil servant should pass by Chitepo School of Ideology. The school has competent and patriotic citizens at lecturers,” said Zanu PF Patriots.

The Chitepo School of Ideology has long been viewed with suspicion by opposition groups and civil society, who accuse the institution of pushing a partisan political agenda under the guise of civic education. The recent directive has sparked concern that the government intends to use the school as a tool to “brainwash government workers,” effectively embedding Zanu PF ideology within the state bureaucracy.

While Zanu PF claims the program will promote patriotism and a unified national vision, critics argue that the school operates more as a vehicle for party propaganda than a legitimate academic institution.

Human rights groups and opposition leaders are already voicing alarm. “This is not education. It is political indoctrination aimed at silencing dissent and creating a compliant public workforce,” said one civil servant who asked to remain anonymous for fear of reprisals.

The directive, if enforced, could significantly impact the neutrality of Zimbabwe’s civil service. Analysts warn that compelling public workers to attend ideological training risks further eroding trust in state institutions, particularly in a country where political loyalty has often been linked to career progression and access to resources.

With no clear legal framework governing the implementation of this policy, questions remain about whether participation will be voluntary or compulsory—and what consequences may follow for those who refuse.

As the debate intensifies, Zimbabweans are left to wonder: is this a step toward national unity, or a deepening of partisan control over state functions?

Just In: Government Cancels Controversial Ideological Training For Judges

The Zimbabwean government has cancelled a controversial training workshop for judges that was initially set to be conducted by the ruling party’s Herbert Chitepo School of Ideology in collaboration with the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO).

The training, which was scheduled to take place on 4–5 July 2025 at the Rainbow Towers Hotel in Harare, had drawn criticism for potentially undermining the independence of the judiciary by involving political and intelligence institutions in the professional development of judges.

In an official memorandum dated 2 July 2025, addressed to all Heads of Courts and copied to the Chief Justice and Chief Registrar, the Secretary of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) confirmed the cancellation of the training, which had been presented as a capacity-building exercise under the Integrated Results-Based Management (IRBM) system.

“The judiciary has been actively engaging with the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC) regarding the most appropriate programme, training material, and resource persons for this performance management training initiative, consistent with the Constitutional requirement of the guarantee of Judicial Independence,” the memo states.

It further explains that, following consultations with the OPC, the decision was made to cancel the planned workshop in order to develop a new training programme that is both judiciary-led and aligned with the principles of judicial independence.

“All Heads of Courts are requested to inform judges accordingly,” the memo concludes, noting that any future training arrangements will be communicated in due course.

Revolution Is Going Ahead, Geza Assures Nation

By A Correspondent

Outspoken war veteran and critic of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Blessed Geza, has assured Zimbabweans that the “people’s revolution” is still on course.

In a strongly worded address on Tuesday, Geza reaffirmed his commitment to challenging the status quo, accusing senior government officials and elites of corruption, betrayal, and losing touch with the values of the liberation struggle.

“Good evening, Family of Zimbabwe,” Geza began. “I greet you with gladness. First, I want to inform you that we have submitted the requests you made. Perhaps you noticed that Vice President Chiwenga later issued a statement in Victoria Falls, saying the Zvigananda — the corrupt — their days are numbered. War veterans everywhere are pleased with Chiwenga’s stance.”

Geza emphasized that although the movement may appear dormant on the surface, internal work is ongoing.

“We are now parked — but that doesn’t mean the revolution has stopped. It is moving forward,” he said.

He criticized what he described as the unchecked arrogance of elites, singling out controversial businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei. Geza condemned Tagwirei’s alleged corruption and his growing influence in both ZANU PF and government.

“We watched him travel around Zimbabwe, to places like Masvingo and Bulawayo — including ZCC gatherings — speaking arrogantly,” said Geza. “He called people who aren’t involved in tenders foolish. What kind of statement is that? We know those tenders are awarded through corruption, all from the Office of the President. The official process no longer exists.”

Geza questioned why ZANU PF members applaud what he sees as blatant corruption: “What’s special about Tagwirei? All the money he flaunts is from corruption. This man is a thief. He stole an entire church — SDA members are crying. He took over Kereke’s hospital. And now, out of nowhere, he’s in the Central Committee, positioned as a future president?”

Turning his attention to President Mnangagwa, Geza accused him of abandoning the liberation ideals and comrades who helped bring him to power.

“This country was won through bloodshed. Comrades like Chiwenga and Valerio Sibanda are still alive — and yet ED has chosen to align himself with the Zvigananda — the corrupt. Chiwenga is now discouraged from speaking out against corruption. What happened to comradeship?”

He recounted how Mnangagwa was once a political exile: “When ED was a refugee, it was comrades who called him back to lead. Mugabe told Chiwenga, ‘You don’t know this man, ED. I would rather leave the country in your hands.’ But Chiwenga said, ‘Let ED rule.’ And now, ED has betrayed the very people who put him in power.”

Geza also took aim at the handling of war veterans, saying their voices are no longer represented by ZANU PF.

“The war veterans, mujibas, and chimbwidos have grievances. They are independent. But now you’ve co-opted figures like Victor Matemadanda and Mahiya, who no longer speak for real war veterans. That’s why the so-called war veterans’ meetings are boycotted. The generals aren’t attending because they know those meetings are a farce,” he said.

Despite his criticism, Geza expressed hope that the tide is turning.

“What pleases me is that some war veterans who were lost are beginning to wake up. We can’t blame them — not everyone wakes up on the same day. But the awakening has begun.”

He cited Monica Mutsvangwa’s recent remarks in Manicaland as a sign that some within the system are starting to see the truth: “She acknowledged that the current financial mismanagement is hurting the country. That gave us hope.”

Geza ended his address by urging unity among those who believe in the ideals of the liberation struggle and called for continued vigilance as the political situation unfolds.

Video: 81-Year-Old Zanu PF Official Urges Mnangagwa to Resign Immediately

By A Correspondent

An 81-year-old former Zanu PF ward secretary has publicly called for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to resign, accusing him of failing to lead the country and allowing the ruling party to be taken over by corrupt individuals.

In a viral video, the elderly party member does not hold back in his criticism, urging the president to “have a conscience” and “step down with immediate effect.”

“Mnangagwa has failed to lead this nation,” he says bluntly. “My party has been seized by thieves.”

The former official’s remarks reflect growing frustration within some quarters of Zanu PF, as Zimbabwe continues to grapple with economic hardships, political unrest, and allegations of widespread corruption.