State Media|Harare City Council teams over the weekend demolished vendors’ illegal cabins and stalls in Mbare and Highfield, but vendors complained that the destruction was done before the promised new market areas had been developed.
While council announced that it would start developing new market areas today, and that it had no intention of destroying livelihoods, the vendors said it would have been better to have allowed them to move to the new sites first.
On Saturday, council workmen descended on Mbare and yesterday visited Machipisa and other places in Highfield.
Commenting on the issue to Zimpapers TV Network on Saturday, spokesperson for Harare City Council Mr Michael Chideme said the municipality was taking advantage of low human traffic during the lockdown to move the stands to properly designated sites.
“The people who were trading on this site will be put in a new complex, so on Monday (today) our teams will be working on the new complex, flattening out, pouring concrete and then marking the vending bays.
“The overflow from this market, will be absorbed at the market under construction at Coca Cola. You will also realise that we have people who are selling here who had abandoned the Mupedzanhamo market and some who had abandoned the other markets at Mbare Musika. They will go back to their original vending sites,” Mr Chideme said.
When The Herald arrived at Machipisa Shopping Centre yesterday, hundreds of vendors were salvaging materials from the destroyed cabins.
Most of them had no kind words for the city fathers and said council should have provided alternatives first before destroying the existing cabins.
A Machipisa resident, Mrs Tabeth Rungano who had her cabin demolished, said her source of income had been destroyed.
“Yes we are aware that our cabins were illegally built but these were our source of income. We do not have any formal employment and we earn our living through informal trading.
“Now that our source of income has been destroyed, we have nowhere to turn to for survival. It was better for council to regularise our cabins, or prepare some strategic sites, before destroying our tables,” she said, while shedding tears.
Mr Trymore Nelson, a vendor at Mapuranga in Highfield, also bemoaned the move by the city fathers saying they should have been considerate of the state of the country’s economy before carrying out the operation.
“A big percentage of the Zimbabwean population, particularly the urban dwellers survive on vending and informal trading. This is how we survive. Our industry is not fully functional and the only way to feed our families is through informal jobs. The council should have considered all that. They should also have created alternative places where we can do our business. Yes, they said there are places where we will be allowed to do business, but the places are not ready,” he said.
The Herald witnessed many residents helping themselves to roofing sheets, timber and other materials from the destroyed structures
By Dorothy Moyo| Faced with a sharp rise in COVID infections among black Zimbabweans, Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri, who once said the disease is God’s punishment against western countries, has begun panicking to the point of urging businesses to start producing personal protective equipment (PPEs) and sanitisers.
1/2 -Oppah: This Coronavirus is a result of sanctions. These are sanctions brought by nations that impose sanctions on us. God is punishing them. They’re now trapped inside their houses. Nowhere to go. Their economies are now screaming, the same way they are making ours suffer. pic.twitter.com/SbzEB8cXMA
Muchinguri-Kashiri, who is the Covid-19 Inter-Ministerial Taskforce deputy chairperson, said this on Saturday as she toured the Chiredzi district’s preparedness.
Chiredzi produces around 24 million litres of ethanol, which is the key ingredient in the production of sanitisers.
Muchinguri said Covid-19 had caused distress across the world and governments were battling to fight it, making it necessary for the private sector to intervene.
“As you can see, there is pressure on the need for personal protective equipment and sanitisers, among other things,” she said.
“You, the people of Chiredzi, have ethanol at your disposal and you must make use of it in the production of sanitisers even for the export market.”
“They are in compliance with all the regulations that we have put in place.
“We did not see any people roaming around; it was very quiet. The only challenge I observed is that of vendors who are selling vegetables who are not wearing protective clothing and they have no sanitisers.”
Muchinguri said nurses at the Chiredzi Polyclinic were not trained, yet this was the port of call for many people.
The total number of Zimbabweans killed after Africa's most powerful woman, Oppah Muchinguri said Coronavirus is God's punishment. She said @realDonaldTrump must be squeazed until he feels the pain. To date, at least 10 Zimbabweans have been infected, 5 have been killed… pic.twitter.com/P4SFxbgUDn
By Wilbert Mukori| ZANU PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa has just announced that Zimbabwe’s total lockdown will be extended by a further 14 days. This came as no surprise given the number of corona virus cases had gone up from 10 to 25 during the 21-day lockdown which was due to end midnight tonight.
indepth…Wilbert Mukori
It would have made no sense to end the lockdown when the corona virus infection is going up.
There is every reason to believe that the virus is spreading and therefore the number of confirmed corona virus cases will increase considerably. If the government keeps its promise of carrying out 1 000 corona virus tests per day, up from 40 tests or so per day, especially testing of all those with flu like symptoms and track and all those tracked after coming in conduct with an infected person; then number of known infected people will double very week.
So, with confirmed 25 corona virus cases today and we can expect 100 or so cases at the end of this 14-day lockdown; it will be mad to end the lockdown then. The lockdown will be extended again and again as the corona virus numbers will continue to increase.
Whilst the lockdown has proven an effective tool in stopping the spread of corona virus is countries like Italy, it is not such an effective tool in Zimbabwe for the following reasons:
a) The first step before imposing the lock down is to do everything possible to stop the virus being brought into the country, quarantine all new arrivals. Zimbabwe did not have quarantine facilities for all new arrivals even those suspected of having the virus. All new arrivals were advised to self-isolate and no effort was made to ensure this was practical and that the advice was followed. In the case of the late Zororo Makamba, immigration officials tried to detain him because he had corona virus symptoms. He complained to a senior government official and the officials were instructed to let him go.
b) The second line of defence is encouraging personal hygiene especially when there is any possibility of picking the corona virus from someone else. People were advised to wash their hands regularly with soap or an alcohol-based disinfectant. To stay at home, work from home, and exercise physical distancing, 2 metres, whenever possible. In Zimbabwe most people in urban cities and towns have no access to regular clean running water and in the crowded high-density suburbs physical distancing is near impossible. The situation is even worse for those in the rural areas.
c) The decision to impose a lockdown; stopping all activities, except those deemed essential; must be evidence based. There must be evidence the virus is spreading with suspected epicentres and that a lockdown will stop the virus spreading beyond the epicentres. The lockdown works in conjunction with other measures such as testing, tracking, isolating and/or treating. Those in the frontline, dealing with corona virus cases must wear appropriate protective equipment. To have imposed a nationwide lockdown on the basis of 10 confirmed cases premature, to say the least. It was criminal negligence on the part of the government to be carrying out a misery 40 tests per day and none of the other follow up measures when it was clear the dreaded corona virus had touched down in Zimbabwe.
d) Extending the initial 21-day lockdown by another 14 days and increasing the number of targeted tests from 40 to 1 000 per day will go a long way in moving decision making from the present a shot in the dark to informed. Still, it must be restated that improved testing regiment alone will not stop the virus spreading. Government must ensure there is supply of clean running water, there are facilities to effectively isolate those with the virus, etc. And, most important of all, government must provide food and shelter for the millions forced into abject poverty or it will be near impossible to enforce and sustain the lockdown.
So, the first 21-day lockdown has failed to slow down the spread of corona virus, the number of confirmed cases has gone up from 10 to 25 in the three weeks. Government failed to take the necessary measure to stop the corona virus getting into the country and then spread.
This newly announced 14-day lockdown extension will not stop the virus spreading either because there is not even one concrete measure government has adopted to stop the virus spreading. Not even one!
The lockdown has forced millions into abject poverty and government has not honoured its repeated promise to provide them with food and shelter. They face the rock or deep blue sea choice of adhering to the lockdown demands and die of hunger. Or to ignore the lockdown and risk dying of corona virus.
There are reports of people in SA queuing for 14 hours for food packages from government. When the food failed to materialise they rioted and looted shops. The Mnangagwa government must know it too cannot extend the lockdown without risking social unrest.
If Zimbabwe was to finally bite the bullet and put an end to the wholesale looting of the nation’s diamonds and other resources, Zimbabwe will certainly raise significant money to ease the financial hardships throughout these hard times.
What is more, by finally stamping out the curse of corruption; IMF, WB and other institutions will stop viewing Zimbabwe as a wasteful pariah state and treat it as a democratic nation worthy of their trust and assistance.
So, what is the way out of this hell? Well there no denying that corona virus is spreading like a wildfire and having this corrupt and incompetent Zanu PF regime will only make a desperate situation even worse. Zanu PF’s failure to implement even the common-sense measures, such as the failure to enforce the quarantine measures at the outbreak of the corona virus, failure to test, etc. is criminal negligence. The way forward for Zimbabwe is therefore obvious; the country needs a competent and accountable government. Now! – SOURCE: zimbabwelight.blogspot.com
Norman Mapeza’s agent Gibson Mahachi has confirmed that Absa Premiership club AmaZulu has enquired about the availability of the coach.
Mapeza is currently without a club after leaving Chippa United in early March, having taken charge of the team for just five months.
Speaking to the Standard, Mahachi confirmed that there are also other foreign clubs interested in his services, though he didn’t name them.
“So far, nothing has materialised for a new deal for the coach,” the agent said.
“Amazulu have, of course, made an inquiry together with several other foreign clubs which I’ll not reveal by their names at this stage.
“But for the moment, Mapeza is resting until a better offer comes and in the meantime, we are open and listening to offers coming our way.
“There is no need for us to rush. When the right offer comes we will embrace it but for the moment we are waiting and looking forward to it.”
Amazulu are currently without a head coach after sending their Slovakian tactician Jozef Vukusic on special leave following a string of poor results.- Soccer 24
By Dr Masimba Mavaza | Last week I tabulated the painful death of a family friend, Jane. She left behind a son and her loving husband who is my dearest friend and a fellow Zimbabwean. I was more humbled by the pouring of grief from all over the world. It is difficult to explain but all those who got in touch with me seriously believed it was my wife who had passed on. I received heart wrecking messages.
I literally wept, my eyes could not stop pouring tears as I read a number of emails, text and whatsapp messages which were written from the heart. Some people I do not know shared my friend’s grief even though they thought it was my wife who had passed on. I am grateful for the out pouring of love and messages of comfort by friends and those pushed by the Holy Spirit. I shared these messages with the bereaved; he cried uncontrollably over the phone. It is more painful that I cannot be with him as we are in locked down, even after the state helped him to bury his wife. He was placed on self quarantine in their home. He understands the pain of loosing a partner; and he begged me not to come.
I told him about the phonecalls I received. My pastor contacted me from Zimbabwe as he was shocked about the news, but I had to accept the condolences and explain that it was not my wife; and still I felt the grief. My brother in-law who lectures in Leicester called me early morning – he was prepared to break the lock down rules to come and be with me. I explained again that it was not my wife. The fact that it was not my wife who passed on does not make my grief any less. I then had to deal with redirecting the compassion to where it was supposed to go to. As I write I am pausing in between sentences to accept condolences and redirecting them to my friend. Once again I thank you all for the genuine grief you have shown to my friend through me. I ask my God to bless you all – please it is very comforting to know that there are still people who can still feel for you even if you do not know each other. May your compassion and humanity be the same for all.
In the midst of this I have shared a thought for my friend in his grief. When your spouse dies, your world changes. You are in mourning —feeling grief and sorrow at the loss. You may feel numb, shocked, and fearful. You may feel guilty for being the one who is still alive. At some point, you may even feel angry at your spouse for leaving you. All of these feelings are normal. There are no rules about how you should feel. There is no right or wrong way to mourn.
I saw my friend through a video call crying and he said “all I hoped for was a closure. I had wanted a decent burial for my wife I had hoped to have a proper religious funeral but God has His own way which I am not qualified to challenge.”
These are the words of my friend not mine.
When you grieve, you can feel both physical and emotional pain. People who are grieving often cry easily and can have trouble in sleeping no appetite problems with concentration or a hard time making decisions.
In addition to dealing with feelings of loss, you also may need to put your own life back together. This can be hard work. Some people feel better sooner than they expect. Others may take longer.
As time passes, you may still miss your spouse. But for most people, the intense pain will lessen. There will be good and bad days. You will know you are feeling better when there are more good days than bad.
My friend does not see any purpose for living and he is seriously lonely. I told him that there are many ways to grieve and to learn to accept loss. I begged him not to ignore his grief. There is available support until you can manage your grief on your own. It is especially important to get help with your loss if you feel overwhelmed or very depressed by it. But the Corona period is something else. The world is concentrating on the dead and the dying but no one is giving a thought for the bereaved.
Family and compassionate friends can be a great support. They are grieving, too, and some people find that sharing memories is one way to help each other.
My friend felt free to share stories about the one who is gone. Sometimes, people hesitate to bring up the loss or mention the dead person’s name because they worry this can be hurtful. But, people may find it helpful to talk directly about their loss. You are all coping with the death of someone you cared for, so my friend requested his story to fly out so that we all see the cruelty of the Corona virus. It kills the infected and destroy the lives of the living.
For some people, mourning can go on so long that it becomes unhealthy. This can be a sign of serious depression and anxiety. While it is to early to forget it is true that sadness keeps you from carrying on with your day-to-day life. But you have a child to be strong for.
We have organised online grief counseling to make it easier to work through his sorrow. They provide Regular talk therapy with a grief counselor or therapist we hope it will help people learn to accept a death and, in time, start a new life.
There are also support groups where grieving people help each other and we have introduced my friend to such groups.
We might know that grief affects how you feel emotionally, but you may not realize that it can also have physical effects. The stress of the death and your grief could even make you sick.
Even if one can Accept offers of help or companionship from friends and family the times we are in are punctuated with fear of infections. My friend went through a controlled funeral.
Let us all Remember that his child is grieving, too. It will take time for the whole family to adjust to life without a spouse or a mother. You may find that your relationship with your children and their relationships with each other will change.
Mourning takes time. It’s common to have rollercoaster emotions for a while.
I do not wish any of us to go through what most families are going through this Corona period. When your government calls for a lock down it is entirely for your safety and that of your family. You are responsible for your neighbour and your self. The experience my friend had is still haunting all of us.
This can happen to any of us. No one is immune to this virus. This virus is a very new virus anything coming to us as an advice from experts let us follow it. Maybe we will stop the virus. Lock down is to save you oneday even if through hunger and suffering you will turn back and thank the authorities for saving your life. Let us all unite in and submit to the advice from the experts and fight Corona. Above all let us ask God to come and help us. Alone we will not win. God bless you all once again thank you for your thoughts towards my friend through me.
THE various strategies being employed in the ongoing fight against the novel coronavirus will continue even after the pandemic has been contained in order to improve the country’s readiness to deal with any similar outbreaks in future.
Vice-President Dr Constantino Chiwenga said this yesterday at Chipindura High School in Bindura, Mashonaland Central, while assessing the province’s readiness to handle Covid-19 cases.
The Mashonaland Central tour followed a similar assessment mission in Mashonaland East on Friday.
The country’s top leadership is assessing the level of preparedness across the country.
“Even when this pandemic is over we are going to continue with such awareness programmes, and even the resources we have gathered will not be taken away so that in the future when we have such pandemics, our people will be better prepared and we are not found wanting,” said VP Chiwenga.
While well-wishers from all over the world could assist the country in fighting the virus, he said, the onus to defeat the disease lay with Zimbabweans.
“We may receive donations from outside, which is appreciated, but we should know that we are our own liberators, we must deal with this situation as Zimbabweans.”
He thanked ordinary people, corporates and other organisations that have contributed in cash and kind towards efforts to curb the spread of the disease.
Returning residents, citizens or other foreign visitors should be quarantined on entry at Government-controlled facilities to stem the spread of the disease, he said.
The Vice-President also censured fake prophets who were profiting by making false healing claims.
In his remarks, Mashonaland Central Provincial Medical Director Dr Clemence Tshuma said some of the materials the province needed include personal protective equipment (PPE) and food for frontline workers, ambulances and the setting up of an ICU (intensive care unit) at Mvurwi General Hospital, which has been designated as the province’s Covid-19 centre.
VP Chiwenga toured Chipadze Isolation Centre in Bindura, Suwoguru Clinic in Mvurwi, Mvurwi General Hospital and other facilities in Mt Darwin and Guruve.
He was accompanied by Lands, Agriculture, Water and Rural Resettlement Minister Perrance Shiri, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Tsitsi Gezi, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe and Mashonaland Central Provincial Affairs Minister Monica Mavunga.
Separately, VP Chiwenga also said Zimbabweans should continue celebrating the sacrifices made by freedom fighters in liberating the country from colonial bondage despite foregoing the national festivities.
“Those who will come after us will be told that this year’s celebrations were unusual because we could not have our usual festivities due to Covid-19.
The celebrations were supposed to be held in Bulawayo in line with our devolution principle; however, we will celebrate our independence in our hearts and minds and remember those who perished or were maimed during the liberation struggle,” he said.-State media
The Health and Child Care Ministry has issued the following statement updating the nation on COVID-19 cases.
Today(April 18) a total of 133 tots were done as detailed in the table I below, giving a total of 2 626 screening and diagnostic tests done to date.
All PCR tests done in Bulawayo today, were negative for COVID-19, whilst one of the PCR tests done in Harare today was positive. This case involves a client with a history of travel from Europe. More details to follow.
Therefore to date Zimbabwe now has twenty-five confirmed cases, including two recoveries and three deaths.
In line with the Ministry’s plan to build the capacity of health care workers on COVID-19 epidemic preparedness and response, a total of 90 clinicians from Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, Chitungwiza Central Hospital, Sally Mugabe Central Hospital and the private sector in Harare completed training in COV1D-19 case management at the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre.
This training was conducted with technical and financial support from the World Health Organisation.
The trained clinicians will cascade the training at their institutions, and among fellow Private practitioners.
Case management training in the remaining nine provinces is scheduled this week.
Additionally, training of health care workers in enhanced surveillance across all provinces is in progress, in line with our intensified surveillance strategy for COVID-19.
The Ministry continues to be on II IGII alert to the COV1D-19 pandemic and would like to remind the nation that, the most effective ways to protect yourself and others against COVID-19 are to practise good personal hygiene and exercise social distancing. For assistance, please call the COVID-19 tollfree hotline number: 2019.
The Health and Child Care Ministry has issued the following statement updating the nation on COVID-19 cases.
Today(April 18) a total of 133 tots were done as detailed in the table I below, giving a total of 2 626 screening and diagnostic tests done to date.
All PCR tests done in Bulawayo today, were negative for COVID-19, whilst one of the PCR tests done in Harare today was positive. This case involves a client with a history of travel from Europe. More details to follow.
Therefore to date Zimbabwe now has twenty-five confirmed cases, including two recoveries and three deaths.
In line with the Ministry’s plan to build the capacity of health care workers on COVID-19 epidemic preparedness and response, a total of 90 clinicians from Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, Chitungwiza Central Hospital, Sally Mugabe Central Hospital and the private sector in Harare completed training in COV1D-19 case management at the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre.
This training was conducted with technical and financial support from the World Health Organisation.
The trained clinicians will cascade the training at their institutions, and among fellow Private practitioners.
Case management training in the remaining nine provinces is scheduled this week.
Additionally, training of health care workers in enhanced surveillance across all provinces is in progress, in line with our intensified surveillance strategy for COVID-19.
The Ministry continues to be on II IGII alert to the COV1D-19 pandemic and would like to remind the nation that, the most effective ways to protect yourself and others against COVID-19 are to practise good personal hygiene and exercise social distancing. For assistance, please call the COVID-19 tollfree hotline number: 2019.
Farai Dziva|MDC president, Advocate Nelson Chamisa has described the announcement of the lockdown extension at the “eleventh hour” by Emmerson Mnangagwa as reckless.
Mnangagwa has announced the extension of the lockdown by a period of two weeks.The lockdown is now expected to end on May 3.
“Leadership,planning and timeous communication always key.
It is totally reckless and unacceptable to keep the nation guessing on the lockdown until the very last minute.
Elsewhere leaders value citizens and give advance notice on any key decisions.
Leaders must be considerate and allow people time to plan, order, and organize their lives! It’s leadership, simple,” argued Chamisa.
Farai Dziva|Two prominent human rights activists have challenged the government to stop, with immediate effect, harassment of civilians and partisan distribution of Coronavirus Relief Aid.
In a joint statement, the two human rights defenders, Blessing Matasva and Tatenda Maposa, expressed concern at the persecution of citizens by security forces.
The two also condemned the politicisation of aid.
Read full statement below:
The government of Zimbabwe joining the rest of the world in fighting covid-19, introduced prevention measures to curb the spread of this pandemic.
While the lockdown is a very good measure, as human rights activists we feel the government is not prepared enough for this initiative, given the current status of our economy which is 90% informal.
The majority of citizens in Zimbabwe, particulary in Masvingo Province survive on informal trading (hand to mouth).
This shutdown has exempted essential service provision- such as grocery shops, a welcome move, given our economic status.
Since the start of the lockdown on the 30th of March, we have witnessed numerous human rights abuses.
Police brutality has been the song on ordinary citizens.
We urge the government to respect human rights and they should have a robust disaster preparedness plan for such incidents.
It is also disheartening to note that some Members of Parliament and District Administrators in the province are politicizing Covid-19 rapid response food distribution programmes.
Mealie meal is being distributed on political basis.
As human rights defenders we castigate such mischievous behaviour from some politicians who are seeking to gain political mileage during such a time.
Food items must be fairly distributed regardless of one’s political affiliation, age, race, creed, disability or gender.
Now that the lockdown has been extended, we implore the government to respect citizens’ rights at all levels.
We strongly feel citizens should not be denied access to medication, food – among other basic needs.
Farai Dziva|MDC president, Advocate Nelson Chamisa has described the announcement of the lockdown extension at the “eleventh hour” by Emmerson Mnangagwa as reckless.
Mnangagwa has announced the extension of the lockdown by a period of two weeks.The lockdown is now expected to end on May 3.
“Leadership,planning and timeous communication always key.
It is totally reckless and unacceptable to keep the nation guessing on the lockdown until the very last minute.
Elsewhere leaders value citizens and give advance notice on any key decisions.
Leaders must be considerate and allow people time to plan, order, and organize their lives! It’s leadership, simple,” argued Chamisa.
Samson Choruwa says he lost interest in football when Dynamos mistreated him following a long lay-off with an injury he sustained in a league match against Masvingo United in 2002.
The former midfielder suffered a nasty knock on his leg which took two years to recover and the club didn’t help him pay for his medical.
Well-wishers such as Sporting Lions manager James Maridadi tried to assist but were frustrated by Dynamos who feared their player could be lured and leaves the club.
Twine Phiri who was the president of CAPS United at that time then intervened and helped the player.
After recovering, Choruwa’s services were deemed surplus by Dembare’s new coach Keagan Mumba and Makepekepe moved to sign him.
But a wrangle between the two Harare giants began over the ownership of the player.
In an interview with Herald, the retired player recalled how this pushed him out of football at a tender age.
“It (the injury) was so mysterious. Surprisingly, no one cared to take me to a hospital…”
“After Dynamos neglected me at a time that I needed their help the most, I decided it was time for me to join the club I had always wanted to play for, CAPS United.
“I tried to talk to Twine Phiri (then CAPS president) to secure my clearance but Dynamos would have none of it.
“But, after considering all my parents went through, I decided to quit football rather than return there. That’s how I left. I had lost interest.”
Both CAPS United and Dynamos attempted to get him back in the following seasons but Choruwa turned down the offers.
He later tried coaching in 2016 at now-defunct Budiriro Gunners in Division Two before securing a new job at a leading tobacco sales company.-Soccer24
By A Correspondent- A Catholic priest was charged in a Kenyan court on Thursday with spreading the coronavirus, the second person to face such charges, it has emerged..
Kenya, which has 234 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and 11 deaths, has banned all public gatherings, limited the number of mourners at funerals, imposed a daily curfew and restricted movement in and out of four regions most affected.
Catholic priest Richard Onyango Oduor was charged with having “negligently spread an infectious disease” after authorities said he failed to adhere to coronavirus quarantine rules following a visit to Italy.
He denied the charges in a Nairobi court, and was freed on a Kshs 150,000 Kenyan (about Shs 5.3 million) bond. He was ordered to spend another 14 days in quarantine and reappear in court on May 2.
Archbishop Anthony Muheria, in charge of the Catholic dioceses of Nyeri and Kitui, told Reuters he could not comment on the case, and it was up to the authorities to determine whether the priest was at fault.
Last week, another court charged Gideon Saburi, the deputy governor of the coastal region of Kilifi County, with spreading the coronavirus by going out in public without taking precautions. He also denied the charges as was freed on bond while being ordered to self-quarantine.
Some African countries have had trouble persuading citizens to comply with restrictions imposed to curb the virus. Kenyan media have been awash with stories of people trying to circumvent restrictions, holding parties in their houses and parks due to bar closures. A lawmaker was arrested for holding a party at a restaurant in the capital on Easter weekend.
Last week, some Botswana lawmakers were put in supervised quarantine after failing to observe an instruction to self-isolate. All of the country’s parliamentarians and President Mokgweetsi Masisi were asked to quarantine for 14 days after a health worker screening them tested positive.
In South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa last week put his Communications minister on leave for two months, one of which will be unpaid, for breaking the rules of a countrywide lockdown and having lunch with a former official. online
By A Correspondent- Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Nick Mangwana, has clarified the position that media practitioner Acie Lumumba was recently given in the fight against COVID-19.
There was a furore from Zanu-PF supporters Saturday after it emerged that Lumumba, real name Gerald Mutumanje, had landed top Government job as a director at the national COVID-19 call centre.
The Zanu-PF youths, led by a prominent supporter of President Emmerson Mnangagwa called Jones Musara, had complained that Lumumba was not supportive of the President’s programmes and did not deserve the government job aheas of loyal and more consistent party cadres.
Responding to the complaints, Mangwana said: “Acie works for Innscor and is leading their Corporate Social Investment. He was not employed by Govt or offered a job. They are refurbishing a number of clinics around the country among other CSI.”
Pictures of Acie Lumumba standing next to President Mnangagwa, coupled with videos of Health and Child Care Minister Obadiah Moyo openly praising Lumumba’s “great communication skills” emerged on social media, angering some hard-line Zanu-PF Varakashi who insist they have been way more loyal but haven’t been recognized.
Jones Musara literally got his knickers in a twist over Lumumba’s appointment.
“We are going to tell Minister Obadiah Moyo that he has been misled to reward disloyal elements. Live and direct. Make no mistake about that. Enough of this nonsense of rewarding disloyal elements whilst blocking loyalists!” Musara fumed.
He added that Lumumba has been Lumumba has been “handed a post” despite evidence that he has been bashing President Emmerson Mnangagwa and openly supporting fugitive G40 frontman Saviour Kasukuwere’s political project.
Jones Musara went on: “Kana kurakasha President ED kusina basa, then let us know! (Let us know if bashing the President no longer worries Zanu-PF)
“It’s wrong to reward vanorakasha President ED. Very wrong. Very wrong. Very wrong. Very wrong.”
Musara went further and distanced President Mnangagwa from Lumumba’s comeback, pinning it squarely on those who are around the Head of State.
Only stupidity can lead a council or government to demolish sources of livelihoods without a plan on how to feed the nation during lockdown & post covid19 @edmnangagwa & @nelsonchamisa whose party is in charge of this thuggish act that is insensitive to the plight of the poor? pic.twitter.com/YoV3gwGmIC
This is Zanu PF, President Chamisa @nelsonchamisa would always act on the side of care and solidarity. He is a Social Democrat.
— Citizen Nkululeko Sibanda zw (@DrNkuSibanda) April 19, 2020
Looking at government and not ZANU/MDC, When was murambatsvina? When will they construct a complex for vendors when it (government) can't even provide PPE? How many fulfilled promises has the government met? By e way murambatsvina was 5-6yrs ago
Commercial sex workers have cried foul over the ongoing 21-day national lockdown which has seen most of them losing all their business.
The thigh vendors have appealed for government intervention asking to be prioritised when the authorities distribute funds set aside for the poor and the vulnerable.
Some enterprising and resourceful thigh vendors have now taken to advertising their services by posting their phone numbers on road signs, trees and walls in an attempt to entice randy man for hookups.
Maidei Magodi, the chairperson of the Sex Workers Advocacy Group (SWAG) has appealed for government assistance for her constituents who she says have been the worst affected by the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic and the subsequent 21-day mandatory national lockdown. President Emmerson Mnangagwa instituted the national lockdown in an attempt to curb the spread of the coronavirus, much to the dismay of the ladies of the night.
Magodi said:
“We appeal to President Mnangagwa to consider our profession under the Covid-19 Fund because we are vulnerable and hardest hit. We have run out of food and we have children to look after,” she said
Magodi said that her organisation has over 15 000 registered members. She also added that this number is growing because the organisation is registering 50-60 new members a day through the clinics provided by the Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS (CeSHHAR Zimbabwe).
Magodi called for the government to prioritise her members when if finally distributes the ZWL$600 million fund set aside for the vulnerable for the national lockdown. Last week, the government announced that it has set up the ZWL$600m to cater for vulnerable families for the next 3 months, which each family expected to receive ZWL$200.-MavingoMirror
By A Correspondent- South Africa’s Health minister, Zweli Mkhize has revealed that the number of coronavirus cases in the Southern African country has risen by 251.
According to Mkhize, positive cases have increased from 2 783 on Friday to 3 034 on Saturday, with 108 021 tests conducted.
Two more deaths have been recorded, bringing the total to 52.
Gauteng now has 1 101 confirmed cases, the Western Cape 836, KwaZulu-Natal 604, Eastern Cape 270, Free State 100, Limpopo 26, North West 24, Mpumalanga 25, Northern Cape 16, and 32 cases were unallocated.-Online
The gentleman of journalism. Sleep well my brother, legend and the master of turning the phrase. @giftphiri lived his life the way he wanted and he wrote his stories the way the people respected. Words are loved in heaven. Keep writing my man. RIP pic.twitter.com/pW236djC59
I am very saddened by the passing on of Gift Phiri, a passionate and outstanding journalist. Indeed a gift to our nation. From him, I learnt that a good journalist makes his biggest story from attempted answers to carefully thought out questions. MHSRIP.
1. Saddened to hear that one of the country’s finest journalists of our time, Gift Phiri is no more. I worked with Givy for a long time, he was my News Editor at the Daily News and I must say he was one of the most hard working journalists I have ever come across. pic.twitter.com/tlwo8XFFxu
Sad to learn about the passing on of Gift Phiri, a senior journalist with @DailyNewsZim . Gift was a brother and a colleague. We were together in Highschool. Shall forever cherish all we had. Rise In Power chief.@misazimbabwe@mdczimbabwe
The gentleman of journalism. Sleep well my brother, legend and the master of turning the phrase. @giftphiri lived his life the way he wanted and he wrote his stories the way the people respected. Words are loved in heaven. Keep writing my man. RIP pic.twitter.com/pW236djC59
I am very sad to hear the news of Gift Phiri's death. I deal with journalists around the world. Gift was up there with the very best. ZImbabwe should be proud they had him. And a true gentleman whenever we met. A total professional. And always kind. I shall miss this man. pic.twitter.com/qRez4cMuD3
Sad to receive news on the death of journalist Gift Phiri of @DailyNewsZim who passed on this morning. He will be missed by many. Deepest sympathies to his family.
By Prince Njagu- The declaration of independence in 1980 marked the start of a new era for many Zimbabweans, but 40 years later many of these dreams and hopes have been shuttered.
April 18 2020 marks Zimbabweans 40th independence anniversary. This day four decades ago was a jubilant day as Zimbabweans looked forward to a brighter and fruitful future.
Zimbabweans had hopes for a brighter future, but this has slowly turned to hopelessness. A rundown economy, high inflation, political squabbles and human rights violations have been the norm of the day in the country.
A conflict of generation has since emerged in Zimbabwe and the younger generation is trying to fight the authoritarian rule. The liberation war heroes continue to dominate the political arena whilst the post liberation generation feels that development is being stalled by this older generation which is clinging onto power for too long.
Independence in 1980 marked the end to colonial rule, but it has been characterised with oppression and human rights violations. The ZANU PF government has seen to the shuttering of dreams and aspirations for the vast of the Zimbabwean populace.
A country once termed the “breadbasket” of Southern Africa, Zimbabwe has been reduced to begging for food aid year-in year-out. Though drought in recent years has played a part in worsening the food shortages in the country, the unplanned land grabbing exercise executed by ZANU PF in 2000 has been the root cause.
Properties which were confiscated comprised of nearly a quarter of the country’s large-scale farms and the commercial farming sector provided about 40% of the country’s export earnings.
The land grabbing exercise disguised as a land reform programme by ZANU PF was a political gimmick to win votes and forcefully take over farms by the ZANU PF top dogs. Only those who were identified as being politically “correct” benefited from this ill planned land reform.
In 2000 the then Foreign Office minister, Peter Hain, described the situation as being very “irresponsible” given the volatility of the country.
15 years late, this unplanned land reform programme saw Zimbabwe been reported as one of the poorest countries on the globe. In 2015 News media reported that Zimbabwe was the poorest country in the world after the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Tobacco exports declined in the country and jobs were also lost during the same land reform. All this meant a decline in the inflow of forex and increased unemployment.
“A global business magazine has ranked Zimbabwe one of the two poorest countries in the world in a damning verdict of President Robert Mugabe’s 35-year-rule,” wrote New Zimbabwe in 2015.
These sentiments tell a lot about how Zimbabwe has transformed over the past four decades and how the situation has worsened since the attainment of independence.
Robert Mugabe was accused of gross human rights violations and sentiments by former Tourism minister Walter Mzembi tell a lot about the character of the now Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Mzembi said that Zimbabwe was now worse off under Mnangagwa.
Mzembi and Mnangagwa both served under Mugabe. These were amongst Mugabe’s top lieutenant, these two used to wine and dine together. They benefitted from the ZANU PF administration before the falling out which saw Mzembi skipping the country in 2018.
As Zimbabwe celebrates 40 years from colonial rule, a look into the past 40 years will show a true conflict of generations for many Zimbabweans. From more than three decades of Mugabe rule, to a military coup which saw the once celebrated stateman Mugabe ousted from office.
Zimbabwe had built an excellent medical and education system which was an envy of the continent, but all this has crumbled to the ground.
As Zimbabwe celebrates its independence today, it is worth to note that true independence goes beyond the flag and national anthem; and Zimbabweans should also appreciate what the war veterans did in liberating the country.
Health Minister Zweli Mkhize announced on Sunday evening that the number of coronavirus infections stands at 3158. 19 April 2020:
The number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in South Africa now stands at 3158 – an increase of 124 cases since the last update on Saturday.
The number of deaths has risen by two, bringing the number to 54.
Minister Mkhize said 114 711 tests have now been conducted throughout the country.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has increased the Coronavirus Lockdown in Zimbabwe by another two weeks.
Explaining his decision to extend the lockdown, Mnangagwa said current infection rates and local transmission point to what he called “a growing threat to our nation”. He said there was a “grim” projection that confirmed cases will rise.
“Once the cases begin to grow exponentially, the strain on our health facilities will be huge. We should thus do our best now to ensure the pandemic levels off at these low, manageable numbers we currently have recorded,” he said.
On contact tracing, Mnangagwa said: “Experts tell me that an ideal situation is devoting one contact tracer to every four infected cases. Tracing and isolation limits the multiplier effect of the pandemic. We have to ginger up our infection surveillance systems for speedy detection and contact tracing. Again, government is addressing this critical area.”
Government, he said was always aware that the lockdown alone was never the solution, and that it had a huge impact on the economy.
“But we chose the route of abundant caution, whatever costs and discomforts this route brings upon our whole society. Nothing is more important than life saving.”
Last week, the WHO said governments must only lift lockdowns when:
Disease transmission is under control
Health systems are able to “detect, test, isolate and treat every case and trace every contact”
Hot spot risks have been minimised in vulnerable places, such as nursing homes
Schools, workplaces and other essential places have established preventive measures
The risk of importing new cases has been managed
Communities are fully educated, engaged and empowered to live under a new normal
Mnangagwa conceded that Zimbabwe, like most other countries, is yet to meet these conditions, and hence had to extend the lockdown.
“As I have already indicated, worldwide cases of infections continue to gallop, with the WHO counselling against relaxing lockdowns currently adopted by almost all counties of the world. Guided by these realities, and to allow ourselves greater leeway to prepare for worse times which are likely ahead, Government has decided to extend with immediate effect the national lockdown by a further fourteen days,” he said.
Tobacco auctions, due to start this week, will be decentralised while there will be limits on the numbers of farmers allowed at the auction floors.
Correspondent|President Emmerson Mnangagwa says mines are to resume operations during an extended lockdown, a plan that would need at least 40 000 mineworkers to be immediately screened and tested for COVID-19.
On Sunday, Mnangagwa announced that Zimbabwe is to remain under lockdown for a further 14 days, although he will allow mines and manufacturers to resume some operations.
“Government is acutely aware of the need to keep the economy running, albeit at subdued levels. With this objective in mind, government has decided to allow the mining sector to resume or scale up operations, even then within parameters set by the WHO regarding social distancing and other public health safety measures,” Mnangagwa said in a live address.
“I have now directed the ministries of Health and Child Care and that of Mines and Mining Development to work closely to ensure the workforce in the mining sector is immediately screened and tested ahead of resumed operations.”
Workers will also be required to stay at their mine houses.
“Further, to the extent possible, I have directed that workers in the mining sector remain within the precincts of their accommodation at the workplaces for the duration of the lockdown.”
The Chamber of Mines, which represents formal miners, says its members employ more than 40 000 people. Mnangagwa’s directive means that mining companies will have to procure and rollout a significant number of rapid diagnostic test kits to screen and test thousands of their workers and external contractors.
Government has been wary of completely shutting down mining, which earned the country US$2.91 billion in exports in 2019, accounted for 55.2% of total exports. In the initial lockdown phase, miners were required to apply for exemption. Miners have also been required to observe social distancing, meaning less workers going in for shifts.
Zimbabwe earned US$410 million from mineral exports in the first two months of 2020, according to Ministry of Mines data. This was up from US$300 million a year earlier, but short of government’s target of US$422 million for the period.
The Chamber of Mines has warned of a 60% dip in mineral output this quarter due to the coronavirus, estimating earnings losses of US$400 million.
Industries will also get a reprieve, although they must observe health safety rules, Mnangagwa said, adding he had held meetings with businesses over recent weeks.
“Over the past few weeks I have held several meetings with different professionals and business interests, in order to mobilise our nation towards this new campaign,” he said.
The Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries earlier in April appealed to government to end the lockdown so as to save businesses from further ruin. Mnangagwa says industries, including informal manufactures, will be allowed to operate.
“This reprieve covers our manufacturers in our informal sectors and SMEs as well, who have to use these two weeks to rebuild their capacities and stocks. The responsible ministry is also directed to work with health authorities to ensure there is order and safety in that sector, so critical to livelihoods,” Mnangagwa said.
The Coronavirus scourge appears to have given President Emmerson Mnangagwa a new life lesson that human beings do not deserve to die unnecessarily.
In his address to the nation on Sunday evening on the way forward at the end of the 21 Day Coronavirus Lockdown, Mnangagwa said he was extending the lockdown by another two weeks realising the importance of human life over power and wealth.
“…. we have chosen the path of responsibility, the path of caution. Nothing is more important than saving lives,” said Mnangagwa.
The President has been fingered by public opinion in several cases of violence that have seen the death of thousands of Zimbabweans, the biggest being the Gukurahundi genocide of the mid eighties which accounted for over 20 000 lives.
Mnangagwa has been accused of playing a leading hand in the genocide as he was Minister in charge of state security then.
He has also been fingered in the post 2018 election violence which saw the killing of several Zimbabweans by the army and police.
Below is his full address.
21 days ago Zimbabwe began a national lockdown as part of our broad response to the deadly Coronavirus pandemic. Today, 2.3 million people have been infected globally, and the UN estimates that our continent could see between 300,000 and 3.3 million deaths from the pandemic.
In Zimbabwe, we have already seen 25 infections with three of our loved ones already dead. With more and more cases coming from local transitions, we are concerned they will begin to multiply at an alarming rate, as we have seen across the world.
We have therefore committed to doing all we can now, while we still have a window of opportunity, by tightening our collective national defences while preparing for a worst case scenario.
We are fully aware of the huge costs of the lockdown: To our economy, to people’s livelihoods, to families and to the joyful lives of our children. But we have chosen the path of responsibility, the path of caution. Nothing is more important than saving lives.
With our country not yet meeting the WHO conditions to lift the lockdown, we have therefore extended the lockdown by 14 days, until 3rd May. This is not an easy decision, but it is both necessary and unavoidable.
With the economic needs of the nation in mind, we have made certain adjustments in key areas: The mining sector will be allowed to scale up operations, while adhering to social distancing and other public health measures. In the manufacturing sector, including SMEs and the informal sector, limited operations will be resuming, again in line with WHO directives.
Of course, essential services will continue as before, and support schemes, including cash disbursements, have begun to be rolled out to vulnerable families across the country. We are also open to all suggestions and comments you may have, as we seek to make our response as effective and bearable as possible.
I thank you again for your self-discipline and cooperation over the past three weeks, which I trust will continue over the next two.
President Mnangagwa today extended the national COVID-19 lockdown by two weeks while he allows mining to scale up. Below are the highlights of his speech.
– Cases in Zimbabwe are increasing
– We have in-country infections
– transmission is increasing
– We have infections from returning residents
– Countries in the region and in the rest of the world are experiencing increased cases
– We have not met the minimum standards set by WHO for us to lift lockdown.
*-Government extending lockdown by a further 14 days up to 3 May 2020*
– Mining sector to resume
– Min of health and child care work closely as they’re tested and screened ahead of resumption
– Manufacturing sector limited operations to resume with safeguards being adhered to
– Reprieve given to both formal and informal manufacturing sector
– Social Welfare assisting the needy
– Army and Police assisting with food distributions
– I shall be visiting cities, towns and rural areas to see first hand the burden that citizens are having due to the lockdown
– My government is a listening government, you’re free to come forward with any suggestions on how to deal with the present situation
– We will come back to you after these 14 days telling you on how we’re going to proceed
Kenyan Musicians have redone Oliver Tuku Mtukudzi’s hit song, Todii, changing lyrics to send a message in Swahili on how to fight the deadly coronavirus.
Norman Mapeza’s agent Gibson Mahachi has confirmed that Absa Premiership club AmaZulu has enquired about the availability of the coach.
Mapeza is currently without a club after leaving Chippa United in early March, having taken charge of the team for just five months.
Speaking to the Standard, Mahachi confirmed that there are also other foreign clubs interested in his services, though he didn’t name them.
“So far, nothing has materialised for a new deal for the coach,” the agent said.
“Amazulu have, of course, made an inquiry together with several other foreign clubs which I’ll not reveal by their names at this stage.
“But for the moment, Mapeza is resting until a better offer comes and in the meantime, we are open and listening to offers coming our way.
“There is no need for us to rush. When the right offer comes we will embrace it but for the moment we are waiting and looking forward to it.”
Amazulu are currently without a head coach after sending their Slovakian tactician Jozef Vukusic on special leave following a string of poor results.- Soccer 24
Former Warriors and Mamelodi Sudowns midfield maestro Esrom Nyandoro has set up a charity auction to raise funds to purchase covid-19 protective clothing for Zimbabweans.
The 40-year-old, who was part of the historic Warriors side which stepped on Tunisian soil for the country’s maiden AFCON appearance in 2004 and even scored the goal of the tournament against Cameroon, wants to buy 1 million masks and sanitizers for people in Zimbabwe in the wake of the novel Coronavirus.
The pandemic has so far resulted in 3 fatalities in Zimbabwe, where the country is currently on a 21-day lockdown which ends today.
Nyandoro’s auction, in which he will be selling some of the football shirts he wore for various clubs in an illustrious career spanning over 20 years, will take place on April 23 at 8pm CAT on his Instagram page.-Soccer 24
By Own Correspondent| As part of his ongoing nationwide initiative to assist vulnerable members of society, millionaire traditional healer Sekuru Banda today donated food hampers worthy thousands of dollars to over 100 elderly people in Rubatika village under Chief Seke.
A few weeks ago, Sekuru Banda donated foodstuffs to the elderly in Mbare where he committed to take the initiative on a national scale.
Speaking during the event, Sekuru Banda thanked the government for its intervention measures put in place to curb the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.
Sekuru Banda handing over foodstuffs to elderly people in Dema today
He also had kind words for the First Lady Amai Auxillia Mnangagwa who is also involved in assisting the elderly.
“I want to applaud government for the measures it has put in place to curb the spread of COVID-19, it is very important because it reduces the spread of this pandemic which has caused so much suffering in the west where thousands of people are dying every day.
Sekuru Banda standing with some of the beneficiaries of his initiative
“I also want to thank the First lady for remembering the elderly in our society,” said Sekuru Banda.
He further called on privileged citizens and corporates to chip in and assist the vulnerable in society especially the elderly and orphans.
“I appeal to other privileged members of society and companies to help the needy with the little they have,” added Sekuru Banda.
In response, Headman Gerald Rubatika thanked Sekuru Banda for his timely gesture.
Cde Masimba Rubatika who is Seke Constituency Development Trust Chairperson hailed Sekuru Banda for assisting the elderly especially during this lockdown period.
Rubatika said he is in full support of Sekuru Banda and will rally behind him as he takes his initiative to the rest of the country.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has since extended the lockdown which was supposed to end today by a further 14 days saying the country had not yet met conditions set by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for countries to end restrictions.
Sekuru Banda called on citizens to comply with the extended lockdown.
He said decisions by government are informed by a deep appreciation of the situation on the ground and should be supported.
The Health and Child Care Ministry has issued the following statement updating the nation on COVID-19 cases.
Today(April 18) a total of 133 tots were done as detailed in the table I below, giving a total of 2 626 screening and diagnostic tests done to date.
All PCR tests done in Bulawayo today, were negative for COVID-19, whilst one of the PCR tests done in Harare today was positive. This case involves a client with a history of travel from Europe. More details to follow.
Therefore to date Zimbabwe now has twenty-five confirmed cases, including two recoveries and three deaths.
In line with the Ministry’s plan to build the capacity of health care workers on COVID-19 epidemic preparedness and response, a total of 90 clinicians from Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, Chitungwiza Central Hospital, Sally Mugabe Central Hospital and the private sector in Harare completed training in COV1D-19 case management at the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre.
This training was conducted with technical and financial support from the World Health Organisation.
The trained clinicians will cascade the training at their institutions, and among fellow Private practitioners.
Case management training in the remaining nine provinces is scheduled this week.
Additionally, training of health care workers in enhanced surveillance across all provinces is in progress, in line with our intensified surveillance strategy for COVID-19.
The Ministry continues to be on II IGII alert to the COV1D-19 pandemic and would like to remind the nation that, the most effective ways to protect yourself and others against COVID-19 are to practise good personal hygiene and exercise social distancing. For assistance, please call the COVID-19 tollfree hotline number: 2019.
President Nelson Chamisa’s message on Independence Day 2020
Fulfilling the democratic Transformation Promise (DTP) Saturday, 18 April 2020
Happy Independence Day fellow Zimbabweans, wherever you are and whatever your political affiliation or station in life.
As I wish you happy Uhuru Day,
I know and I understand that some of you might feel a tinge of some discomfort; because of the very difficult times that you are going through as individuals, families, organisations or communities in your endeavours to make ends meet to sustain your livelihoods.
I also am fully aware that your difficulties have been compounded by impact of the coronavirus pandemic which is threatening lives and livelihoods in our country in ways that, from public health point of view, have not been seen or experienced not perhaps since 1918 when the Spanish Flu attacked humanity resulting in untold loss of life.
Be this as it may, the 40 years of our nationhood is not a short period to be ignored; the attainment of 40 years as an independent nation is a milestone. Applied to an individual, 40 years mark the beginning of life; hence the saying that life beings at 40. But of course, the life of a nation cannot be compared to that of nation.
It is worth recalling that the number 40 itself, is biblically and spiritually an important symbolic number; not as a judgment point or day as some are wont to see it, but as a period of trials and tribulations that enjoins all of us, as a people united as one nation, to retrospect, introspect and prospect together; in terms of where we have come from, where we are and where we should be going.
It is this opportunity of collective reflection that makes this day, the 40th anniversary of our Independence, an important day in our country’s history. As such, it is with humility that I have the honour and privilege to extend to you my compatriots, Fortieth Independence Day felicitations to each and all of you in recognition of the milestone we have reached as nation. It is such a treasurable honour and proud privilege that we have many who were willing to sacrifice all for all. For this, we owe a debt of gratitude and special tribute of adoration to our forebears for answering to the call of national duty.
All this for a new and independent Zimbabwe. Such sacrifice. Such dedication. Such patriotism. Such hope. And such a vision. For themselves and for future generations.
Over the last 40 years, our country has made remarkable strides to redress the injustices visited upon us by and under some one hundred years of brutal and dehumanising colonial rule. The first two or so decades of our Independence inspired hope, raised national expectations and instilled broad-based confidence in our country; as the new national leadership from the heroic liberation struggle laid a promising foundation for radical transformation in the key areas of reconciliation, education, health and agriculture.
In the circumstances, Zimbabwe became a beacon of peace and stability in the region and our security forces were sought after by the United Nations as peacemakers and peace enforcers around the world; our exemplary primary education system saw the country recording the highest literacy rate in Africa; our healthcare system became second to none; while our agriculture transformed the country into Africa’s breadbasket.
It is also a tragic truth that the same two decades of commendable success, witnessed the marginalisation parts of our country – notably in the Matabeleland region – where some 20,000 citizens were massacred with many more tortured, while thousands were internally or eternally displaced amid untold destruction of livelihoods in what has come to be known as the Gukurahundi atrocities.
Related to this, another tragic truth is that the last 20 years have witnessed wanton use of violence in our politics.
Cases in point are what happened in the implementation of the land reform programme, while a necessary fulfilment of a fundamental goal of the liberation struggle; its violent implementation, which bordered on racism, was unnecessary, unwarranted and unjustifiable.
Other challenges of our heroic Independence over the last 20 years include Operation Murambatsvina; the shocking violence in the 2008 presidential runoff election; the 2017 political developments; the 1 August 2018 massacre of citizens in Harare which was repeated between 14 and 28 January 2019 across the country’s urban centres.
On balance, our country’s performance over the last 40 years can be assessed on the basis of key national grievances that were behind the national liberation struggle:
Addressing the land question to reclaim the people’s land rights.
Addressing the national question to unify the country.
Addressing the democratic question to ensure that every Zimbabwean has a right to vote and that the exercise of that right is respected and honoured.
Addressing the sovereignty question, which is the essence of National Independence, to ensure that sovereignty belongs the people, and not to a few individuals who call themselves the State.
The land reform programme is now irreversible, notwithstanding the fact that its implementation left a lot to be desired. Going forward, there’s a need for radical transformation by the next generation of leadership to rationalise land tenure issues and to give title deeds and promote productivity on the land.
On the national question, Zimbabweans are today more divided than they were at Independence in 1980. The liberation struggle generation has failed to address the national question. What is now needed is radical transformation by the next generation of leadership to create an enabling environment for an inclusive sense of belonging among Zimbabweans to build the kind of nation that Zimbabweans have always wanted to be.
And the hitherto elusive democratic question must resolved. There’s a need for the radical transformation of Zimbabwe’s electoral politics to put an end to the era of disputed elections. This is a challenge that the next generation of leadership must resolve.
Corruption
Lastly, while sovereignty, that is to say, Independence, has over the last 40 years been for the State; a new paradigm – through radical transformation consistent with our new Constitution – is needed to make clear that sovereignty belongs to the people, not to the State. It’s the people who are free and who should define their sovereignty.
Against this backdrop, when we look back over the last 40 years, and especially when we focus on the last two decades, the milestone we rightly commemorate today is a mixed bag: we have made some strides, but we have also failed ourselves in a big way. However, a New beginning is not only possible but is necessary and is coming. For it to happen, we must each and all of us, play our part and be hold The New!
THE DEMOCRATIC TRANSFORMATION TASK-
As Zimbabwe turns 40 today…
Indeed a new nation has to be born. The nation has just to be born again. The next generation has to kick in to rebuild our country.
As we approach the decade before us, we need a new consensus, the intergenerational consensus. This inter-generational consensus is an agreement on solutions to the challenges facing the broad masses of Zimbabwe, namely the struggle for social justice and prosperity. The old should work with the young. The young must take the lead.
We must to create a socially just democratic transformative state with a humble and empathetic God fearing and God Loving leadership in respect of which will adhere to the values of social justice, transparency, accountability and equality.
We also must fulfil the unfinished agenda of the liberation struggle, in particular, the economic emancipation of our people.
We must establish a sustainable, democratic Zimbabwe.
In short, we pledge to create a free New Zimbabwe in respect of which the citizen does not live in fear and is free to pursue her aspirations. A transformed NEW Zimbabwe in respect of which strong institutions, big ideas and a functional state prevails over tyranny, autocracy, big men syndrome and fear.
Let us all build a NEW nation and a NEW Zimbabwe built on pillars of forgiveness, peace, great ideas, progressive alternative policies, freedom, tolerance and patriotism.
We must make Zimbabwe the jewel of Africa and indeed the jewel of the world.
We must all take this moment to press a reset button so as to start promoting greater social cohesion and unity of purpose while discouraging the toxic levels of hostility and intolerance that sometimes characterise much of political discourse.
In building our nation, we must focus on building strong institutions to curtail the vices of the past.
Strong institutions are inclusive in both their character and effect. Most countries that have made economic, social and political progress have usually done so on the back of strong institutions. It is these strong institutions that form pillars of the nation. They provide the social and moral compass. These pillars are the referees that restrain men and women with or without power from indulging in excesses that harm society.
Even nations that have had strong personalities, such as South Korea, have developed strong institutions along the way, placing them in good stead for life long after the departure of the strong leader. Strong institutions must be able to survive governments, which are transient.
Strong institutions are able to resist the corrupting influence of personalities and political factions. Strong institutions stand firm in the face of demagogues and populists.
The first 40 years of our independence have shown us ample evidence of the danger of extractive institutions which benefit only a few elites and their associates. The catalogue of corruption fills many pages. We do not have to look far.
The blessings of Chiadzwa diamonds turned out to be a curse for the local community and the nation at large because of extractive institutions.
In the next 40 years we have a generational challenge to build inclusive institutions and to dismantle extractive institutions. We must decisively deal with corruption. We must build strong and modern infrastructure for our great country. We need spaghetti roads, bullet trains, skyscrapers, SMART agriculture, new smart cities and towns, urbanized smart villages and world-class digital health facilities and digital government.
Going forward, we must rediscover and nurture our national values. Our home-grown constitution has a provision which outlines the founding values and principles of the nation. They include constitutional supremacy, the rule of law, good governance, gender equality and respect for fundamental rights and freedoms.
There are many more values which derive from our culture as African people. They include Ubuntu, fairness, mutual respect, restraint and cooperation. These values which are present in our day to day lives must also inform how we conduct our politics at national level.
Nation-building and economic prosperity require a progressive national vision.
All great nations of this world have been driven by a firm national vision. A national vision can outlive its authors. Some nations have continued to pursue visions crafted more than one hundred years ago. We need a collective effort to craft a national vision. Seven years ago, we achieved something outstanding: a national constitution. It was a product of collective effort, not unilateralism. We must use the same spirit to craft a national vision as an economic, political and social compass for our nation. Indeed, we are 10 years to our silver jubilee.
Our target should not be that we should still be here in 2030. Rather, it must be that our nation will be the jewel of the world. We have a limited time remaining to complete a jubilee with great successes.
Let us join hands and combine minds in a new amity, givenness and Oneness derived from our common essence and desire to build a great Zimbabwe that will be the pride of all Africa and the jewel of the world.
The beauty about our circumstances is that the best days of our lives haven’t happened and are yet to come!
This is the beginning of a new era. Let us embrace it. Let us cherish it. We dare not fail. I would like to assure you again, that the new independence is here. It has arrived. Feel it. Remember to wash your hands, keep good hygiene, maintain social distance and spread the message.
Remember to pray for our country and indeed the entire world.
Happy birthday Zimbabwe!
God bless you, God bless Zimbabwe, God bless AFRICA.
Farai Dziva|Robert Mugabe Junior, the son of the late veteran politician and former President of Zimbabwe, Robert Mugabe, has claimed that his father sacrificed his life for the people of Zimbabwe.
Mugabe who was forced to relinquish power by his long time aide, Emmerson Mnangagwa, in a military led revolt under the code name Operation Restore Legacy in 2017, was a seasoned politician who used “guerrilla tactics” to outfox his foes.
During his reign of terror, as they say, Mugabe used the dreaded Central Intelligence Organisation to suppress dissenting voices.
In his Independence Day message, Robert Mugabe Junior, quoted by Mbare Times, said : “Zim@40: my father was a servant of Zimbabweans, he sacrificed his life for you”.
Commenting on Robert Mugabe Junior’s remarks, Masvingo based political analyst, Batsiranai Ngugama said in a statement :
Mugabe wronged us. There are a number of things he certainly did which were wrong.
We are in this mess because of him. Gukurahundi issue, corruption, human rights abuse, graft, unplanned land seizures…
During his tenure we lost very competent people.
He adopted stupid polices, invited Chinese into our country. He distorted history, recycled dead wood rejected by the people.
With Jonso he literally destroyed media plurality and diversity.
However, we must remember that he also made some positive contributions to the development of the education system, healthcare and emancipation of the majority.
Any leader must MENTION HIS NAME ON INDEPENDENCE DAY.
By Julias Muguwe | While the newspaper headlines and television news cameras have focused on the thousands of workers in retail and services industries losing their jobs, the effects of the COVID-19 crisis have been creeping largely unnoticed through the ranks of the small cap miners to the big operations. The numbers of employees affected are, of course, far less dramatic than the closure of a large retail chain, and companies are reporting no health issues yet, but the disruption comes at a time when for instance Zimbabwe is still riding on the ‘Zimbabwe is open for business fruitless mantra’.
The corona virus COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected the mining industry in such a way that the global stock markets have dropped, commodity prices tumbled, and mine production outputs took severe hits. With the outbreak likely to disrupt the global economy for several months, if not years there is need to mitigate or put in place protective measures, otherwise it is going to be disastrous for most African countries. Given that Zimbabwe had a sick mining economy before the pandemic, it is highly likely that some Mining houses will never recover. With the Zimbabwean government retaining nearly more than 50% of the mines forex earnings we are yet to see what measures the government has put in place to avoid a total collapse.
Let me give a brief of the mines working conditions based on my experiences at various Zimbabwean mines such as Shabani and Mashaba Mines, Hwange Colliery, BHP Hartley Platinum and Arcturus Mine. Whilst some of these operated both surface and underground mining the bulk of their production is from underground.
Social distancing underground is almost impossible due to the squalidness and working conditions. In such operations you have hundreds of people working in close proximity. With so much load shedding most mining operations do rely on diesel powered generators as a source of power. Power is also used to operate the mine underground fans which draw in air and gaseous air out of the mines.
A typical daily operation at an underground mine starts with an early morning safety brief which is usually done either underground by the shift bosses or on surface.
Following that miners and other technical staff enter the mine through a system of a hoist with some carrying as many as 50+ miners at big operations. This is a cage hoisted down and it is in this operation again that you will not be able to practise social distancing. When miners get to the development ends there is hauling and drilling. The drilling operation itself is done by two men and at very limited space. No social distancing can be practised in those stope faces.
Whilst it is common practice that masks and goggles are worn underground, the type worn is mainly for dus protection purposes. These may need to be tested for effectiveness on CORVID-19 The depth of the mines makes their operating conditions unique and particularly labour-intensive. Underground miners are exposed to high temperatures and humidity, and when they return to the surface some live in cramped houses. Most mines do operate canteens and club houses where miners do mix and mingle after hours. While the corona virus outbreak is still in its infancy in Zimbabwe, President Emmerson Munangagwa declared a national lockdown and implemented travel restrictions, closed schools and banned large gatherings. It does not take an epidemiologist to realise that the mining work environment is a catalyst for spreading the COVID-19 virus. In addition, the average age in the industry’s workforce is over 40, increasing their vulnerability to an illness that poses a greater risk with age.
Miners operating a jack hammer underground. 2m social distancing can not be practised.
Recommendations.
The ministry of mines has not given a guideline on how mining operations are going to operate under this threat. It did take a court order by the high court for the Ministry of Health to provide PPE to the doctors and ensure their safety in their practice. I have not seen any mitigation against CORVID-19 by our Zimbabwean government for the Mining Industry. Mining companies should be directed in collaboration with the Health Ministry to prepare a range of measures such as and not limited to.
• Checking the temperature of workers before going down mines, enter narrow elevators and adits.
• Encouraging employees to find out their HIV status. The mining industry’s experience with AIDS and tuberculosis should stand it in good stead: It has invested in health infrastructure and has experience with contact-tracing because the procedure with a tuberculosis diagnosis is almost similar to that of corona virus. • Start distributing flu shots and changing the way statutory medical examinations are done. • An action plan to soften the impact of corona virus on the industry, both for mineworkers and managers who travel extensively. • In Zimbabwe we have a lot of Chinese who are operating gold and Chrome mines along the great dyke. The flying in flying out should stop until we are on top of the situation. • Risk-mitigating measures should be put in place to identify any cases of the virus, to ensure rapid isolation and contact tracing. • If any mine operation is to continue every mine employee should be tested before entering the mine just like health employees. • For employees, the government must ensure access to masks, sanitizers and testing kits as well as equipment such as temperature monitors. • Mining companies should be ready to work with all relevant parts of government to manage the spread of the virus, if required. • Most mines do have some markets for vegetable stalls. During month ends traders flock to the mines to sell various clothing and gadgets to the mines. This should be stopped. • The Zimbabwean government should act fast to stop a catastrophe in the mining industry. • The above recommendations or guidelines will be difficult to enforce on small scale mining operations where mining is done without protective clothing. Most youths are involved in these operations for a living and if the government does not look into how they can help small scale miners whom they have allowed to mine without licences, then the CORDIC-19 fight is a losing battle. The COVID-19 outbreak has made the immediate future of several mining operations around the world uncertain. As a result, there may be an increased appeal and demand for solutions to reduce the human workforce at mine sites. Whilst it is not possible to predict how COVID-19 will further disrupt the mining industry, what is certain is that the mining industry must reconfigure and prepare itself to operate under a new normal, one in which it can operate and sustain itself under the new constraints and challenges that such pandemics bring with. Relations between miners and mine owners could be one of the most strained in the longterm. Mining unions across the world are already struggling to ensure their members are treated fairly and safely at work, and those mines that remain open during the pandemic will be doing little to reassure unions that their operators have their workers’ safety at the forefront of their thoughts. In Zimbabwe, unions have complained against working conditions at the Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company, where mines remain open and some employees are required to sleep seven to a room, with the company unable to implement safe social distancing. The longer the pandemic goes on, the more strained all of these relations could become. This fight is a fight for us all; lets stay home, lets practice social distancing.
Written by Julias Muguwe (B.sc Honours Geology UZ)
Julias is the MDC Alliance UK AND IRELAND Portfolio Secretary for Mines and Mineral Resources. He is a registered competent person with SAIMM (South African Institute Of Mining and Metallurgy), A fellow of the Geological Society of England (GEOSOL) and a competent person with SACNASP (South African Council Of Natural Scientific Professions).
Farai Dziva|Robert Mugabe Junior, the son of the late veteran politician and former President of Zimbabwe, Robert Mugabe, has claimed that his father sacrificed his life for the people of Zimbabwe.
Mugabe who was forced to relinquish power by his long time aide, Emmerson Mnangagwa, in a military led revolt under the code name Operation Restore Legacy in 2017, was a seasoned politician who used “guerrilla tactics” to outfox his foes.
During his reign of terror, as they say, Mugabe used the dreaded Central Intelligence Organisation to suppress dissenting voices.
In his Independence Day message, Robert Mugabe Junior, quoted by Mbare Times, said : “Zim@40: my father was a servant of Zimbabweans, he sacrificed his life for you”.
Commenting on Robert Mugabe Junior’s remarks, Masvingo based political analyst, Batsiranai Ngugama said in a statement :
Mugabe wronged us. There are a number of things he certainly did which were wrong.
We are in this mess because of him. Gukurahundi issue, corruption, human rights abuse, graft, unplanned land seizures…
During his tenure we lost very competent people.
He adopted stupid polices, invited Chinese into our country. He distorted history, recycled dead wood rejected by the people.
With Jonso he literally destroyed media plurality and diversity.
However, we must remember that he also made some positive contributions to the development of the education system, healthcare and emancipation of the majority.
Any leader must MENTION HIS NAME ON INDEPENDENCE DAY.
By Farai D Hove| The man who local business and government parastatals firmly recognise as the legitimate Zimbabwe Republic People’s President, Nelson Chamisa has slammed ZANU PF leader Emmerson Mnangagwa over his delay in announcing the future of the COVID-19 lockdown.
Mnangagwa left the nation suspended in a horrifying stretch at the weekend when he should have announced the government position on the lockdown a day earlier, on Independence Day. Experts have weighed in saying the country’s ongoing COVID management has been neither systematic nor procedural since the beginning of the year.
Mnangagwa further kept the nation waiting on Sunday afternoon when he delayed his press conference for more than an hour. It would later announce breaking news that the the lockdown has been extended to the 3rd of May 2020, which has irked the vast majority of the community.
Commenting around the time as Zimbabweans were waiting with bated breath, Chamisa said,
“Leadership, planning and timeous communication always key.
“It is totally reckless & unacceptable to keep the nation guessing on the lockdown until the very last minute. Elsewhere leaders value citizens & give advance notice on any key decisions.”
By Jane Mlambo| Government has lifted an earlier ban on the mining sector which will now operate during the extended lockdown period.
Announcing the extension of the lockdown, Mnangagwa said the country remain on lockdown with only essential services allowed to operate.
“Govt has decided to allow mining sector to operate during the lockdown.
“Essential services continue as before. The department of social welfare has begun rolling out cash disbursements for vulnerable families during the lockdown,” said Mnangagwa.
“Workers will be screened ahead of resumptions of operations & will stay within confines of mining area until May 3,” said Mnangagwa.
He added that the manufacturing sector including SMES will be allowed to resume operations while also following WHO guidelines.
By Jane Mlambo| President Emmerson Mnangagwa has announced plans to roll out COVID-19 tests at rural clinics to ensure all citizens have access to testing facilities.
He made the remarks while addressing the nation at the end of the 21 day lockdown, which has since been extended for a further 14 days.
Mnangagwa said the roll out of testing facilities at rural clinics will require more health personnel as well as laboratories so that results are out quickly to ensure better response mechanism.
Farai Dziva|MDC president, Advocate Nelson Chamisa has described the announcement of the lockdown extension at the “eleventh hour” by Emmerson Mnangagwa as reckless.
Mnangagwa has announced the extension of the lockdown by a period of two weeks.The lockdown is now expected to end on May 3.
“Leadership,planning and timeous communication always key.
It is totally reckless and unacceptable to keep the nation guessing on the lockdown until the very last minute.
Elsewhere leaders value citizens and give advance notice on any key decisions.
Leaders must be considerate and allow people time to plan, order, and organize their lives! It’s leadership, simple,” argued Chamisa.
Govt has decided to extend further the national lockdown by a further 14 days. That means the lockdown that would have expired by midnight stands extended to the 4th of May, says @edmnangagwapic.twitter.com/TK1I7aBxhs
By A Correspondent- Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has extended the country’s 21 Day Lockdown by a further 14 days.
In his address, Mnangagwa told citizens that “it had been a very hard decision” but one that was necessary.
“… Coming to our own country, we have witnessed a spike in cases, coming from local transmissions, Clearly, the numbers are rising and we should thus do our best now to ensure that the pandemic levels remain low. Indeed We should treat the low numbers of infection, as a window of opportunity.”
Govt has decided to extend further the national lockdown by a further 14 days. That means the lockdown that would have expired by midnight stands extended to the 3rd of May, says Emmerson Mnangagwa. VIDEO LOADING BELOW….
Govt has decided to extend further the national lockdown by a further 14 days. That means the lockdown that would have expired by midnight stands extended to the 4th of May, says @edmnangagwapic.twitter.com/TK1I7aBxhs
Zimbabweans are eagerly waiting for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to address the nation on the direction the country is taking with the 21 day lockdown effectively ending today.
Tune in and watch Mnangagwa address the nation on whether the lockdown continues or not;
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has extended the national lockdown by a further 14 days saying the country has not met any of the conditions set by the World Health Organisation.
The lockdown will now end on the 3rd of May.
Mnangagwa said government is working on a plan to cascade Covid-19 testing to rural health centres so that every citizen can have access to testing facilities.
Zimbabweans are eagerly waiting for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to address the nation on the direction the country is taking with the 21 day lockdown effectively ending today.
Tune in and watch Mnangagwa address the nation on whether the lockdown continues or not;
Saddened by the passing on of a brilliant journalist Gift Phiri.What a blow to journalism & it’s future!A talented,balanced & investigative journalist.A fighter for justice &human rights.Ever happy, smiling.A great gift to us all.Our prayers are with his wife Amai P & family. pic.twitter.com/9nFsErKHdh
By A Correspondent- Investigators from the corruption-fighting body last week impounded a South African-bound truck containing 30 000 litres of ethanol after it had been initially cleared by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) at the country’s major port of entry.
A consignment belonging to Green Fuel, the country’s biggest ethanol producer, has been intercepted by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (Zacc) at Beitbridge Border Post after being flagged as possible contraband.
Investigators started tracking the truck after being tipped off by a whistle-blower. The matter is being handled by Zacc and other Government agencies who are running tests to ascertain whether the truck indeed was carrying sanitiser liquid — and not ethanol — as had been declared by Green Fuel.
Zacc chair Justice Loice Matanda-Moyo confirmed the investigation into Green Fuel’s consignment. “Investigations are underway and we are waiting for the results to check what it is exactly. We are still waiting (for the results),” she said. The Special Anti-Corruption Unit in the Office of the President and Cabinet (Sacu) chair Mr Tabani Mpofu also confirmed the probe.
“I can confirm that a consignment was indeed intercepted at Beitbridge Border Post and has been taken for further investigations as we referred the matter to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission,” he said. By late yesterday, test results were yet to be released.
However, Green Fuel has denied any wrongdoing, claiming that it had the necessary approvals from Zimra to export alcohol-based hand sanitisers. The company said Zimra’s customs and excise division wrote to them on April 5, 2020, to approve the export of sanitisers to other SADC member countries, which are battling the coronavirus.
The company’s spokesperson, Ms Nicole Mollet, professed ignorance of any case involving the impounding of one of the company’s trucks. However, another Green Fuel representative later contacted The Sunday Mail. He declined to be named but said the company had done everything above board and will allow Government verification processes to take the course.
“Our truck was impounded on wrong suspicions because we were doing everything properly. We have the approvals from Zimra to export to Sadc countries. There is nothing amiss.” Ironically, it is the same Zimra and other Government agencies which impounded the contraband.
Green Fuel has the capacity to produce an estimated 10 million litres of ethanol per month, most of which is used to blend fuel. Ethanol blending of unleaded petrol is currently mandatory in Zimbabwe, with the ratio standing at 20 percent (E20).
The government introduced fuel blending in 2008 following the licensing of Green Fuel’s Chisumbanje plant in Chipinge in order to cut back on fuel imports, which were haemorrhaging the country of the much-needed foreign currency. Fuel remains the country’s biggest import.
Ethanol is produced from sugarcane and can be used to blend fuel, produce sanitisers and alcoholic beverages. Handwashing, sanitisers, social distancing and staying at home are part of the measures employed to fight the disease, which has infected over 2,2 million people around the world.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) close to 140 000 people had succumbed to Covid-19 as of yesterday. Zimbabwe has so far recoded 24 cases, three deaths and two recoveries.-StateMedia
By A Correspondent- President Emmerson Mnangagwa will address the nation on the issue of the COVID-19 lockdown review BEFORE 4pm
It had earlier been advised that the President’s address was scheduled for 4pm.
However, in a brief update, Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana said the address has been brought forward.
“His Excellency the President will be going on air earlier than scheduled. Please do tune in to catch his broadcast which will come in any minute from now,” Mangwana announced Sunday afternoon.
By A Correspondent- As the country grapples to contain the coronavirus, opportunists are taking the crisis as a gold-paved pathway to fortune, even if it comes at the cost of human lives. Immorality really know no bounds.
Some pharmacies and individuals are illegally selling unapproved and mostly faulty COVID-19 rapid test kits for prices ranging from US$35 to US$55 per unit. A box containing 25 test kits costs around US$900. The cost also includes testing services.
Daring traders are marketing their products and services on social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp. But the more cautious ones are making use of word of mouth.
Government has outlawed the private sale of test kits and testing of suspected COVID-19 cases outside prescribed medical facilities. This was after it emerged that most of the rapid test kits on sale did not comply with the Ministry of Health and Child Care and World Health Organisation (WHO) specifications and protocols.
Health authorities argue the kits often produce erroneous results. It is a concern that has been flagged worldwide, including in the United States of America.
But the ban fell on deaf ears!
Investigations by The Sunday Mail Society reveal the illegal trade is rife. The dealers are capitalising on non-availability of mass testing in registered healthcare facilities with approved COVID-19 testing kits.
However, the situation is expected to improve after Government recently decentralised testing as part of concerted efforts to ramp up the exercise. Overall, authorities plan to test 1 000 samples of suspected COVID-19 cases per day following last week’s delivery of missing reagents from the Jack Ma Foundation, which recently donated 20 000 test kits.
Also, they received 3 000 rapid test kits, which have since been deployed to provinces. Additional kits were also received from WHO and the Africa Centre for Disease Control. Illegal traders have easily won clients as they are alleged to be working in cahoots with well-placed health personnel. They also deceive potential clients by claiming to diagnose, treat, cure and even prevent Covid-19.
The test kits give results in just 15 minutes. Conversely, Government is using a testing protocol referred to as polymerase (PCR) chain reaction methods, which takes at least five hours to get results.
So close yet so far
Working under cover, we sought to unmask some of the dealers. But trying to disentangle the network or cartels is no easy task as our investigative team later found out. It is usually much easier if you approach the sellers through a third party.
Our initial attempt to get the product hit a snag. An Avenues-based dealer, Shadreck (full name withheld), we were referred to was not forthcoming during our brief meeting. “Who directed you to me? I know you! You are a journalist,” he charged before speeding off, hurling insults. Apparently, Shadreck supplied a kit and tested one of our sources last Saturday.
Sealing the deal
Another potential supplier of the kits based in Newlands, Harare, and operating under the name “Covid Care” gave us a torrid time. The gentleman, who identifies himself as Malvin, is also covertly testing suspected Covid-19 cases.
We discussed prices and his product range through text messages and at times brief calls. But we were unable to meet him in person. Initially he promised to deliver the kit to us. He was also going to do the test in town, but later on reneged.
“I am sorry, demand for our service is a bit high at the moment, hence I failed to make it. We focus mainly on supplying test kits and testing services to big organisations,” he said before referring us to his partner, Faith.
The associate, who claims to be a nurse aide with one of the medical institutions in the Avenues area, is responsible for delivering “small” orders.
We met her at the corner of Baines Avenue and Leopold Takawira Street for a possible deal. However, she did not have the kits on her person. “I left the kits at home in Hatfield. We can go together and I will give you your order,” she said.
Organised syndicates
Along the way, she loosened up — of course sensing a potentially lucrative deal.
“There is huge demand of this product, especially in the leafy suburbs where we operate from. Hospital processes are cumbersome. Besides you have to meet certain criteria for you to be tested. We do away with all those procedures hence most people are turning to us,” said Faith.
Apparently, some of their clients are being referred to them by medical professionals, among them doctors and nurses in various hospitals. In some instances, doctors are suggesting that patients suffering from medical conditions of any sort first undergo Covid-19 testing before receiving treatment.
“Top doctors are helping us to create ‘private channels’ for these sales. They are also fearing for their lives. So when ‘dubious’ patients approach them, some are asking them to produce Covid-19 test results before rendering any form of assistance,” she further revealed.
Zimbabwe Medical Association (ZiMA) secretary-general Dr Sacrifice Chirisa, however, rubbished the claims.
“I do not know of any doctor involved in such practices. In fact, this is my first time hearing about it. We are a law-abiding association that follows Government directives. However, if there is any doctor who is doing so, they should stop forthwith,” said Dr Chirisa.
Obstacle along the way
Our trip to Hatfield was, however, cut short by security services enforcing the 21-day lockdown.
She did not have clearance letter allowing her to travel, thus we had to proceed without her. She gave us directions and instructed her “partner” to give us the order. But this was only after we had paid her in full. However, she became suspicious that we might be State security agents after we had gone through security checks with minimum hassles.
Despite her misgivings, she opted to throw caution out of the window. “Once you get the package, call me for the solvent solution so that we do the test,” said Faith before leaving.
We drove to St Andrew’s Street in Hatfield, where we met a guy who claimed to be Faith’s brother and got our package — lot number 20200315. However, efforts to contact the supposed nurse afterwards were in vain. Thus, we did not get our solvent solution despite paying for it.
Tracking down the initial contact. A day or so after, we tracked down Malvin using a different number in a bid to tie him down for an interview.
Sensing danger, he distanced himself from anything to do with Covid-19. “We do not sell test kits since we are not registered and do not have approval from Government to do so,” said Malvin before switching off his phone. Chief director for preventive services in the Ministry of Health and Child Care, Dr Gibson Mhlanga, said the private sale of the kits was unlawful.
“Anyone selling Covid-19 test kits is doing so outside the confines of the law; it is illegal. We are not aware of any individuals or pharmacies that have been registered or approved by Government to sell Covid-19 test kits. Anyone currently doing so must stop,” warned Dr Mhlanga.
The Government official, who is also responsible for information and communication on the Inter-Ministerial Taskforce for Covid-19, made further revelations.
“At one time, we confiscated the test kits that were being sold illegally and all of them were giving the wrong diagnosis. It is dangerous because someone might genuinely have the virus and the test kit diagnoses him/her as negative.”
Source of the kits
Inquiries to ascertain the primary source of the test Covid-19 rapid test kits drew blanks. However, our investigations indicate that some private companies are importing the kits from as far as Asia and Europe, supposedly to assist Government in the fight against Covid-19, but in turn dump part of the consignment on the grey market.-StateMedia
By A Correspondent- The Lockdown statement will be broadcasted live on TV today at 4PM. The statement will also be played live on all radio stations simultaneously.
This was communicated by the Information Ministry Secretary Nick Mngwana who tweeted:
The Statement on the status of #LockDownZim will be broadcast live on National TV today at 1600 hours.
Anxiety has gripped the nation as people wonder if the lockdown will be extended or it will be partially extended or it will be lifted altogether. Some people like the MDC Treasury General Senator David Coltart wants the lockdown extended whilst businesses are saying if it is extended they will not survive.
By A Correspondent- Friends and family confirmed the passing away of the veteran journalist on Sunday morning while admitted at Health Point, a private hospital in Harare’s Avondale suburb.
Gift Phiri, an assistant editor at Daily News had been unwell for some time and had never quite recovered from a horrible traffic accident.
Phiri has worked for several media houses like The Zimbabwean and Al Jazeera among others.
By A Correspondent- The Zimbabwe Asociation of Doctors for Human Rights (ZADHR) has released its 3rd COVID-19 Monitoring and Advocacy Report.
Among other things, the report noted that Zimbabwe failed to maximise on the lockdown which was a rare opportunity for extensive screening and testing.
We present the report below.
The world continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, with the number of reported deaths globally standing at 154 350 (WHO, 18 April 2020) from a total of over 2 million confirmed infections.
Zimbabwe also continues to witness new cases with a total of 24 cases reported to the health ministry as at 17 April 2020. Three Zimbabweans have lost their lives after suffering from severe cases of COVID-19. In this report, we acknowledge the work by the COVID-19 Inter-Ministerial Ad hoc Taskforce in the identification and assessment of COVID-19 designated facilities and engagement of key stakeholders in the response to this pandemic.
The Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights (ZADHR) is actively monitoring the response to this pandemic in Zimbabwe. The following are the key highlights in this current monitoring period.
1. Lockdown The 21-day lockdown period declared by the government is coming to an end. ZADHR views the lockdown as a missed opportunity where extensive screening and testing could have been done with a particular focus on increased case detection, isolation and management of confirmed cases.
ZADHR also notes with concern that the State has not managed to expand the health infrastructure to levels that are commensurate to the existential threat posed by COVID 19. We have less than 10 ICU beds countrywide in public COVID-19 facilities and our hospitalization capacity is still less than a thousand beds. Despite the success witnessed in curbing importation of cases into the country through ports of entry, we have continued to witness incidences of local transmission. These indicators all suggest that the time is not yet ripe to lift the nationwide lockdown. We advise for cautious and evidence-based decision making by the central government on whether or not to lift the lockdown. Any extension of the lockdown must be predicated on extensive screening and testing, and urgent rehabilitation of the existing service delivery infrastructure to increase preparedness for any massive upsurge in cases of C OVID-19.
2. Protective Personal Equipment (PPE) The shortages of PPE continue to expose frontline health workers to COVID19 infection. Health workers in both public and private facilities have been exposed in the routine discharge of their duties. On 13 April 2020, ZADHR won a court challenge which compelled the State to provide PPEs to health workers. ZADHR will be closely liaising with health institutions and representatives of health workers to check for compliance of the court order and where necessary seek further legal recourse to ensure enforcement of the ruling.
3. Covid-19 Designated Facilities ZADHR notes the increased expansion of COVD-19 designated facilities throughout the country and calls for their urgent capacitation. We also note, citizens initiatives to contribute in the capacitation of these facilities. Of note is the #Iam4Byo initiative in Bulawayo designed to get Ekuseleni and Thorngroove ready.
• Local Council Clinics We note that the central Government has taken over the management of council clinics in efforts to expand facilities that can respond to COVID-19. However, we urge them to avoid disrupting the existing care for other medical conditions. The clinics form the backbone of our primary health care system and provide essential services such as Anti-Retroviral Therapy, family planning, immunization services and care for communicable and non-communicable diseases.
4. Private Practitioners and Community Engagement ZADHR strongly advises the Ministry of Health and Child Care that there is need for transparency in the national response to COVID-19. We are deeply concerned by the actions a private practitioner who allegedly posted on social media that his facility is attending to private patients. We are discouraged by the unwillingness by the Permanent Secretary in the MOHCC to clarify this issue despite a formal email communication to her. We reiterate that all institutions providing care to COVID-19 patients must be made public and accessible to all Zimbabweans. All cases must be collated, tabulated, reported centrally and available to medical practitioners, and epidemiologists with results and updates being given out in a more informative and transparent manner. Information should easily be digestible to the general public. Press briefings for information dissemination, and responding to questions and concerns are vital to curbing rumour, conjecture and the spreading of misleading if not dangerous information. ZADHR is considering legal action to have this matter clarified to guarantee the public and stakeholders on the state of affairs.
ZADHR is also deeply worried by the failure to rebuke myths and misconceptions peddled by a popular religious leader on COVID-19. The MOHCC must set the record straight that COVID-19 has no cure to date and all Zimbabweans must take preventative actions as advised by government and WHO.
5. Rights, Dignity and Confidentiality ZADHR has witnessed several cases of individuals being subjected to inhumane and degrading treatment for violating lockdown measures. During the lockdown period, ZADHR has attended to 31 cases of people allegedly assaulted by security officers enforcing the lockdown in various parts of the countries. Most of these people presented with moderate soft tissue injuries after being beaten with baton sticks. ZADHR reiterates that those violating the regulations must still be treated with dignity and subjected to the due process of law. We also note with concern, the unethical transmission and publication of COVID-19 results before patients are informed and consenting to their details being made public. The media is also encouraged to verify and if possible, avoid disseminating messages that foster stigmatization of COVID-19 patients. Happy 40th Independence Anniversary Zimbabwe
By A Correspondent- Public transporter Intercape has advised all its employees in Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Botswana that due to the COVID-19 lockdown emergency measures, all its employees will not receive a salary for May, June and July 2020, as they are temporarily laid off.
The luxury bus service operator says while it had tried to avoid this situation, it has been left with no option but to lay off.
Affected employees can claim unemployment benefits during this period from their respective government institutions, says the statement which we provide in full below:
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO INTRODUCE A TEMPORARY LAY-OFF
Due to the COVID – 19 lockdown and Intercape not allowed to operate, the employer is considering implementing a Temporary Lay-Off for an estimated period of 3 months (May, June and July 2020).
All employees in Intercape BOTSWANA, ZIMBABWE AND MOZAMBIQUE will be affected by this temporary layoff.
A consultation meeting between management and employees is not possible due to the COVID –19 lockdowns.
Accordingly, Management would allow the opportunity for each employee to provide their written reaction to this as soon as possible, but no later than 17h00 on 20/04/2020.
Should you have any alternative suggestions to avoid the introduction of a Temporary lay -off, we would gladly consider it. All alternative suggestions can be sent in writing to [email protected].
Should a temporary lay-off be introduced the following will apply: 1. The temporary lay-off comes into effect on 01 May 2020. 2. Employees affected will not receive a salary for May, June and July 2020. 3. Employees are allowed to work for other employers during this period and will not transgress their contracts of service should this be done. 4. Employees are allowed to claim unemployment benefits during this period from their respective government institutions. 5. The temporary lay-off is proposed until 31 July 2020 and should the need arise to extend, cancel or shorten the period, management will contact the affected employees. 6. Employees must return to work on 03 August 2020
By A Correspondent- Motivated and saddened by the passing on of media personality Zororo Makamba, five Oxford University students have set up the Zimbabwe Covid-19 Support Hub, a website that pools data, advice, and support information to amplify the Zimbabwean government and civil society’s responses to coronavirus.
About 30 Zimbabwean volunteers in the diaspora use their expertise in programming, communication, economics, law, and other fields to run the website.
The Oxford students are postgraduates originally from Zimbabwe: Terrens Muradzikwa from Keble College, Prince Abudu and Itai Muzhingi from Balliol College, and Jason Brickhill and Ngoni Mugwisi from Trinity College.
They collect and share information from authoritative sources, including accurate health advice, government information on the spread of the virus in Zimbabwe, and government measures.
The website also collates details about how to access and support community-based projects, and the organisations to contact for assistance.
Muradzikwa explained how the website will support Zimbabwe’s response to coronavirus: “One, through busting fake news by sharing verified and accessible COVID-19 information in local languages such as Shona, Ndebele and Kalanga.
“We have translated expert-reviewed information from various sources such as the Ministry of Health, WHO, and COVID-19 Health Literacy Project.
“We have been distributing this information over our website and social media channels reaching over 100,000 people.
“Two, through amplifying the efforts of others in Government and civil society in Zimbabwe, including by encouraging Zimbabweans in the diaspora to help wherever they can. This includes information on GoFundMe campaigns and innovations by local universities.”
“It was really the first COVID-19 death that was the wake-up call, because the case was of a young rising media star we all knew: Zororo Makamba.
“MOTIVATED AND DEEPLY SADDENED BY THIS, WE HAD TO ACT IN SUCH UNCERTAIN TIMES AND PROVIDE A PLATFORM TO USE OUR TALENTS TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE FIGHT AGAINST COVID-19 IN ZIMBABWE.”
The website states:
“We are a group of Zimbabwean professionals and researchers in the diaspora. We all have family and friends in the country. We are living through COVID-19 in other countries, but are deeply concerned about the threat of the virus to Zimbabweans.
“Zimbabwe faces challenges of poverty, a weakened public health system, high rates of HIV-AIDS and other underlying medical conditions, food insecurity, unemployment and fiscal instability that make the COVID-19 threat to Zimbabwe particularly severe.”
Zimbabwe Covid-19 Support Hub shares information on its website, and can also be found on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.-online
By A Correspondent- A British War Veteran captain Tom Moore has raised over £23m for the British NHS, by walking 100 laps in his garden before his 100th birthday on 30 April.
Initially, Captain, as he is affectionately known on social media just wanted to raise £1000 for NHS charities when the challenge started.-BBC
The number of coronavirus cases has risen by 251, Health Minister Zweli Mkhize said on Saturday night.
According to Mkhize, positive cases have increased from 2 783 on Friday to 3 034 on Saturday, with 108 021 tests conducted.
Two more deaths have been recorded, bringing the total to 52.
Gauteng now has 1 101 confirmed cases, the Western Cape 836, KwaZulu-Natal 604, Eastern Cape 270, Free State 100, Limpopo 26, North West 24, Mpumalanga 25, Northern Cape 16, and 32 cases were unallocated.
Bt A Correspondent- Opposition MDC president Nelson Chamisa has said China must investigate cases of abuse being reported by Africans in China,
He called on the African Union to engage China to urge them to defend Africans in China.
Chamisa tweeted:
The treatment of Africans in China must be respectful of human rights. Africans must be accorded the same respect the Chinese get in Africa. A full investigation must be launched into the reported cases of abuse and the AU must engage China in defense of African citizens’ dignity.
This comes at a time the world is appalled by reports coming from China that Africans are being discriminated against in China as they are being racially profiled and being blamed for spreading the virus.
By Prince Njagu- April 18 2020 marks Zimbabweans 40th independence anniversary. This day four decades ago was a jubilant day as Zimbabweans looked forward to a brighter and fruitful future.
The declaration of independence in 1980 marked the start of a new era for many Zimbabweans, but 40 years later many of these dreams and hopes have been shuttered.
Zimbabweans had hopes for a brighter future, but this has slowly turned to hopelessness. A rundown economy, high inflation, political squabbles and human rights violations have been the norm of the day in the country.
A conflict of generation has since emerged in Zimbabwe and the younger generation is trying to fight the authoritarian rule. The liberation war heroes continue to dominate the political arena whilst the post liberation generation feels that development is being stalled by this older generation which is clinging onto power for too long.
Independence in 1980 marked the end to colonial rule, but it has been characterised with oppression and human rights violations. The ZANU PF government has seen to the shuttering of dreams and aspirations for the vast of the Zimbabwean populace.
A country once termed the “breadbasket” of Southern Africa, Zimbabwe has been reduced to begging for food aid year-in year-out. Though drought in recent years has played a part in worsening the food shortages in the country, the unplanned land grabbing exercise executed by ZANU PF in 2000 has been the root cause.
Properties which were confiscated comprised of nearly a quarter of the country’s large-scale farms and the commercial farming sector provided about 40% of the country’s export earnings.
The land grabbing exercise disguised as a land reform programme by ZANU PF was a political gimmick to win votes and forcefully take over farms by the ZANU PF top dogs. Only those who were identified as being politically “correct” benefited from this ill planned land reform.
In 2000 the then Foreign Office minister, Peter Hain, described the situation as being very “irresponsible” given the volatility of the country.
15 years late, this unplanned land reform programme saw Zimbabwe been reported as one of the poorest countries on the globe. In 2015 News media reported that Zimbabwe was the poorest country in the world after the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Tobacco exports declined in the country and jobs were also lost during the same land reform. All this meant a decline in the inflow of forex and increased unemployment.
“A global business magazine has ranked Zimbabwe one of the two poorest countries in the world in a damning verdict of President Robert Mugabe’s 35-year-rule,” wrote New Zimbabwe in 2015.
These sentiments tell a lot about how Zimbabwe has transformed over the past four decades and how the situation has worsened since the attainment of independence.
Robert Mugabe was accused of gross human rights violations and sentiments by former Tourism minister Walter Mzembi tell a lot about the character of the now Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Mzembi said that Zimbabwe was now worse off under Mnangagwa.
Mzembi and Mnangagwa both served under Mugabe. These were amongst Mugabe’s top lieutenant, these two used to wine and dine together. They benefitted from the ZANU PF administration before the falling out which saw Mzembi skipping the country in 2018.
As Zimbabwe celebrates 40 years from colonial rule, a look into the past 40 years will show a true conflict of generations for many Zimbabweans. From more than three decades of Mugabe rule, to a military coup which saw the once celebrated stateman Mugabe ousted from office.
Zimbabwe had built an excellent medical and education system which was an envy of the continent, but all this has crumbled to the ground.
As Zimbabwe celebrates its independence today, it is worth to note that true independence goes beyond the flag and national anthem; and Zimbabweans should also appreciate what the war veterans did in liberating the country.
A South African lady based in Guangdong province has said she and her family are now living in constant fear of being subjected to multiple COVID-19 tests and forced quarantine in China as Africans are being subjected to discrimination in some parts of China.
The teacher said they went back to China on 16 March where she and her husband are both teachers and were placed under quarantine with cameras installed outside their home so that they won’t leave. She said later on her school notified her that they should pack their bags and go to the police station where they will be taken to a hotel for quarantine.
Speaking to the publication, the woman whose identity was hidden by News24 said when they got to the hotel there were other African people at the hotel:
[There was] a guy from Morocco, a lady who’s got dual citizenship with Namibia and South Africa, another lady was from the Eastern Cape. And we were just like, where are other people? It is only people from Africa.
Even to this day, there has been no official letter and explanation as to why we had to go in. We packed because they also said if we refuse to come, the police would come to our house and arrest us and take us there
We went into the hotel and got tested again for the virus, and two days ago we got tested again. So we have been tested three times now for the virus. Every time the results are negative and they told us yesterday that we could leave. We are at home right now in self-isolation.
You will see mothers literally taking their kids out of the way, people not wanting to get into the lifts and some foreigners who go to gym, they are told they need to show their papers showing they quarantined
We have colleagues and friends from US who have not even been quarantined. They [are] only isolated. They were never tested. My colleague from England never tested and when we ask why this is happening, we are told it’s because of the many black people in Guanzhong who have got the virus. It’s shocking how racist people are. The stuff they say.
It’s just the unfairness and blatant discrimination. Just because we’re from Africa, we have to go through this over and over again, but nothing is happening to the people from UK and USA
My friends are single and are in seclusion. It’s hard for them because it’s not like in SA where there are gardens for them. We live in apartment buildings. We are on 18th and 20th floors and that in itself makes us anxious
When contacted for comment by the publication, Chinese Consul General to South Africa Tang Zhongdong reportedly denied the allegations that Africans were being mistreated in Guangzhou.-News24
People in Cape Town have broken into tuck shops and attacked each other and police because hunger, one resident said.
In a viral video, Joanie Fredericks, a civic activist in Cape Town’s Mitchells Plain Township, said:
‘Mr President, we are in the midst of a food crisis. It’s war out here.’
The desperate appeal was made in a video posted to President Cyril Ramaphosa on social media that enforced a five-week lockdown to try to curb coronavirus spread.
Four weeks into a 35-day shutdown, poor communities face food shortages as wages have dried up for largely informal workers.
The shutdown, implemented on 27 March, has already put cash-strapped people under more pressure.
At the self-funded scheme run by Fredericks and other volunteers the number of people lined up for food is rising by the day.
‘When we started feeding people, we started with the very vulnerable, …kids, people with disabilities and pensioners.
‘But we’re way past the point of sending people away, Mr. President,’ begged an anxious Fredericks.
Several violent demonstrations have already erupted across the city over access to food packages handed out by authorities.
Hundreds of angry protesters have been fighting police fights, hurling rocks and setting up street barricades with burning tyres in Mitchells Plain on Tuesday over undelivered food parcels.
Police fired teargas and rubber bullets to disperse them. Social observers fear the risk of worsening these violent events.
‘There’s a bunch of us at home getting fat and there’s a bunch of people who really have nothing,’ said Julian May, director of the Centre of Excellence in Food Security, at the University of the Western Cape.
‘And it speaks a lot about the inequalities in South Africa (that) are likely to come out,’ said May.
‘As people are not getting food parcels or hear of other people getting parcels they are starting to react. And I don’t think that’s going to ease unless there’s more rapid delivery of food to people in poor areas.’
Luxurious Travel Bus Company Intercape has sent letters to its employees in Botswana, Mozambique and Zimbabwe notifying them it will temporarily lay them off starting 1 May 2020.
The letter dated 15 April says the employees will receive their April salaries and the temporary layoff will be for 3 months, May June and July 2020
Part of The letter that talks about the lay off reads:
NOTICE OF INTENTION TO INTRODUCE A TEMPORARY LAY-OFF
Due to the COVID – 19 lockdown and Intercape not allowed to operate, the employer is considering implementing a Temporary Lay-Off for an estimated period of 3 months (May, June and July 2020). All employees in Intercape BOTSWANA, ZIMBABWE AND MOZAMBIQUE will be affected by this temporary layoff.
A consultation meeting between management and employees is not possible due to the COVID – 19 lockdowns. Accordingly, Management would allow the opportunity for each employee to provide their written reaction to this as soon as possible, but no later than 17h00 on 20/04/2020.
Should you have any alternative suggestions to avoid the introduction of a Temporary lay -off, we would gladly consider it. All alternative suggestions can be sent in writing to [email protected].
Should a temporary lay-off be introduced the following will apply: 1. The temporary lay-off comes into effect on 01 May 2020. 2. Employees affected will not receive a salary for May, June and July 2020. 3. Employees are allowed to work for other employers during this period and will not transgress their contracts of service should this be done. 4. Employees are allowed to claim unemployment benefits during this period from their respective government institutions. 5. The temporary lay-off is proposed until 31 July 2020 and should the need arise to extend, cancel or shorten the period, management will contact the affected employees. 6. Employees must return to work on 03 August 2020.
The employer holds the view that a temporary lay-off is in the interest of the workforce since it ensures the retention of job opportunities and the prevention of retrenchments. Please note that Management has attempted to avoid this situation, but unfortunately have no other alternatives at present.
Should no proposal be received it would be interpreted that you do not have a proposal on avoidance and that you agree and support the proposal by management.
Villagers from Gwanda South who continue to suffer from what they claim to be a strange disease which has claimed several lives in their area have called on the international community to intervene as they feel the Ministry of Health is not doing enough on the plague.
Masses have been perishing around the country with the Ministry of Health admitting that there are 131 deaths. The health ministry claims these deaths might be caused by malaria.
However in an emotional plea to. ZimEye.com, villagers in Gwanda argue that these are coronavirus cases and are demanding for urgent massive Coronavirus testing in the area.
The villagers insist that the symptoms exhibited in the so claimed malaria cases are so close to the Coronavirus ones as published by the World Health Organisation.
“”We don’t understand why the Ministry is insisting that this is malaria when they have not tried anything that can prove that it’s not Coronavirus,” said Thuso Sebatha from Vubvuma area in Gwanda.
“If the Ministry does not have the capacity to meet our request, we are calling on the international community to urgently intervene and check on the situation. The truth is that people are still dying and falling ill and losing trust on each other, ” he added.
Zimbabwe is one of the most ill-prepared countries to fight the Covid-19 in the region. The government has failed to secure personal protective equipment for the healthcare employees. Hospitals do not have ventilators and staff to handle the pandemic.
The Health ministry through its Twitter handle reported that cumulative figures for malaria are 135 585 and 131 deaths. A total 201 malaria outbreaks have been reported throughout the country mostly from malarious provinces such as Manicaland, Masvingo and Mash East.
In its report, the Ministry excluded Gwanda and Beitbridge where complaints on Coronavirus fears have been continuously been raised.
The Ministry of Health further claims that 90 outbreaks have been controlled and 18 690 malaria cases and 17 deaths were reported this week. Of the reported cases, 1 935 (10.4%) were from the under five years of age. The deaths were reported from Mutoko District (4) in Mashonaland East Province, Mbire District (1).
The international community would indeed be advised to keep an eye on the Zimbabwe situation before things get out of hand.
Constantino Chiwenga (front, white worksuit) arriving in Mash East, is welcomed by Sydney Sekeramayi and others.
THE various strategies being employed in the ongoing fight against the novel coronavirus will continue even after the pandemic has been contained in order to improve the country’s readiness to deal with any similar outbreaks in future.
Vice-President Dr Constantino Chiwenga said this yesterday at Chipindura High School in Bindura, Mashonaland Central, while assessing the province’s readiness to handle Covid-19 cases. The Mashonaland Central tour followed a similar assessment mission in Mashonaland East on Friday. The country’s top leadership is assessing the level of preparedness across the country.
“Even when this pandemic is over we are going to continue with such awareness programmes, and even the resources we have gathered will not be taken away so that in the future when we have such pandemics, our people will be better prepared and we are not found wanting,” said VP Chiwenga.
While well-wishers from all over the world could assist the country in fighting the virus, he said, the onus to defeat the disease lay with Zimbabweans.
“We may receive donations from outside, which is appreciated, but we should know that we are our own liberators, we must deal with this situation as Zimbabweans.”
He thanked ordinary people, corporates and other organisations that have contributed in cash and kind towards efforts to curb the spread of the disease. Returning residents, citizens or other foreign visitors should be quarantined on entry at Government-controlled facilities to stem the spread of the disease, he said.
The Vice-President also censured fake prophets who were profiting by making false healing claims. In his remarks, Mashonaland Central Provincial Medical Director Dr Clemence Tshuma said some of the materials the province needed include personal protective equipment (PPE) and food for frontline workers, ambulances and the setting up of an ICU (intensive care unit) at Mvurwi General Hospital, which has been designated as the province’s Covid-19 centre.
VP Chiwenga toured Chipadze Isolation Centre in Bindura, Suwoguru Clinic in Mvurwi, Mvurwi General Hospital and other facilities in Mt Darwin and Guruve. He was accompanied by Lands, Agriculture, Water and Rural Resettlement Minister Perrance Shiri, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Tsitsi Gezi, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe and Mashonaland Central Provincial Affairs Minister Monica Mavunga.
Separately, VP Chiwenga also said Zimbabweans should continue celebrating the sacrifices made by freedom fighters in liberating the country from colonial bondage despite foregoing the national festivities.
“Those who will come after us will be told that this year’s celebrations were unusual because we could not have our usual festivities due to Covid-19. The celebrations were supposed to be held in Bulawayo in line with our devolution principle; however, we will celebrate our independence in our hearts and minds and remember those who perished or were maimed during the liberation struggle,” he said.
Standard|One hundred and thirty one people have died of malaria across the country in an outbreak that has seen 135 58 people falling sick, the government revealed yesterday.
Seventeen deaths were recorded last week alone in Mashonaland East.
“The cumulative figures for malaria are 135 585 and 131 deaths,” the Ministry of Health and Child Care said yesterday evening.
“A total 201 malaria outbreaks have been reported throughout the country mostly from malarious provinces such as Manicaland, Masvingo and Mash East.
The ministry said 90 outbreaks had since been controlled.
“Of the reported cases I 935 were from the under five years of age,” the ministry added. “The deaths were reported from Mutoko district (four) in Mashonaland East province and Mbire district (one).”
There have been reports of unusually high number of malaria deaths in Gwanda and Beitbridge in Matabeleland South, but the government statement did not make reference to the cases.
Working under cover, state media journalists sought to unmask some of the unscrupulous Harare fake Covid-19 test kit dealers.
But trying to disentangle the network or cartels is no easy task as the investigative team later found out.
It is usually much easier if you approach the sellers through a third party.
An initial attempt to get the product hit a snag.
Below is the State Media journalists narration of the chase of the dealers.
An Avenues-based dealer, Shadreck (full name withheld), we were referred to was not forthcoming during our brief meeting.
“Who directed you to me? I know you! You are a journalist,” he charged before speeding off, hurling insults.
Apparently, Shadreck supplied a kit and tested one of our sources last Saturday.
Sealing the deal
Another potential supplier of the kits based in Newlands, Harare, and operating under the name “Covid Care” gave us a torrid time.
The gentleman, who identifies himself as Malvin, is also covertly testing suspected Covid-19 cases.
We discussed prices and his product range through text messages and at times brief calls.
But we were unable to meet him in person.
Initially he promised to deliver the kit to us. He was also going to do the test in town, but later on reneged.
“I am sorry, demand for our service is a bit high at the moment, hence I failed to make it. We focus mainly on supplying test kits and testing services to big organisations,” he said before referring us to his partner, Faith.
The associate, who claims to be a nurse aide with one of the medical institutions in the Avenues area, is responsible for delivering “small” orders.
We met her at the corner of Baines Avenue and Leopold Takawira Street for a possible deal. However, she did not have the kits on her person.
“I left the kits at home in Hatfield. We can go together and I will give you your order,” she said.
Organised syndicates
Along the way, she loosened up — of course sensing a potentially lucrative deal.
“There is huge demand of this product, especially in the leafy suburbs where we operate from. Hospital processes are cumbersome. Besides you have to meet certain criteria for you to be tested. We do away with all those procedures hence most people are turning to us,” said Faith.
Apparently, some of their clients are being referred to them by medical professionals, among them doctors and nurses in various hospitals.
In some instances, doctors are suggesting that patients suffering from medical conditions of any sort first undergo Covid-19 testing before receiving treatment.
“Top doctors are helping us to create ‘private channels’ for these sales. They are also fearing for their lives. So when ‘dubious’ patients approach them, some are asking them to produce Covid-19 test results before rendering any form of assistance,” she further revealed.
Zimbabwe Medical Association (ZiMA) secretary-general Dr Sacrifice Chirisa, however, rubbished the claims.
“I do not know of any doctor involved in such practices. In fact, this is my first time hearing about it. We are a law-abiding association that follows Government directives. However, if there is any doctor who is doing so, they should stop forthwith,” said Dr Chirisa.
Obstacle along the way
Our trip to Hatfield was, however, cut short by security services enforcing the 21-day lockdown.
She did not have clearance letter allowing her to travel, thus we had to proceed without her. She gave us directions and instructed her “partner” to give us the order. But this was only after we had paid her in full. However, she became suspicious that we might be State security agents after we had gone through security checks with minimum hassles.
Despite her misgivings, she opted to throw caution out of the window. “Once you get the package, call me for the solvent solution so that we do the test,” said Faith before leaving.
We drove to St Andrew’s Street in Hatfield, where we met a guy who claimed to be Faith’s brother and got our package — lot number 20200315.
However, efforts to contact the supposed nurse afterwards were in vain.
Thus, we did not get our solvent solution despite paying for it.
Tracking down the initial contact
A day or so after, we tracked down Malvin using a different number in a bid to tie him down for an interview.
Sensing danger, he distanced himself from anything to do with Covid-19.
“We do not sell test kits since we are not registered and do not have approval from Government to do so,” said Malvin before switching off his phone.
Chief director for preventive services in the Ministry of Health and Child Care, Dr Gibson Mhlanga, said the private sale of the kits was unlawful.
“Anyone selling Covid-19 test kits is doing so outside the confines of the law; it is illegal. We are not aware of any individuals or pharmacies that have been registered or approved by Government to sell Covid-19 test kits. Anyone currently doing so must stop,” warned Dr Mhlanga.
The Government official, who is also responsible for information and communication on the Inter-Ministerial Taskforce for Covid-19, made further revelations.
“At one time, we confiscated the test kits that were being sold illegally and all of them were giving the wrong diagnosis. It is dangerous because someone might genuinely have the virus and the test kit diagnoses him/her as negative.”
Source of the kits
Inquiries to ascertain the primary source of the test Covid-19 rapid test kits drew blanks.
However, our investigations indicate that some private companies are importing the kits from as far as Asia and Europe, supposedly to assist Government in the fight against Covid-19, but in turn dump part of the consignment on the grey market.
The number of coronavirus cases has risen by 251, Health Minister Zweli Mkhize said on Saturday night.
According to Mkhize, positive cases have increased from 2 783 on Friday to3 034 on Saturday, with 108 021 tests conducted.
Two more deaths have been recorded, bringing the total to 52.
Gauteng now has 1 101 confirmed cases, the Western Cape 836, KwaZulu-Natal 604, Eastern Cape 270, Free State 100, Limpopo 26, North West 24, Mpumalanga 25, Northern Cape 16, and 32 cases were unallocated.
Today. a total of 133 tots were done as detailed in the table I below, giving a total of 2 626 screening and diagnostic tests done to date.
All PCR tests done in Bulawayo today, were negative for COVID-19, whilst one of the PCR tests done in Harare today was positive. This case involves a client with a history of travel from Europe. More details to follow.
Therefore. to date. Zimbabwe now has twenty-five confirmed cases, including two recoveries and three deaths.
In line with the Ministry’s plan to build the capacity of health care workers on COVID-19 epidemic preparedness and response, a total of 90 clinicians from Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, Chitungwiza Central Hospital, Sally Mugabe Central Hospital and the private sector in Harare completed training in COV1D-19 case management at the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre. This training was conducted with technical and financial support from the World Health Organisation. The trained clinicians will cascade the training at their institutions, and among fellow Private practitioners. Case management training in the remaining nine provinces is scheduled this week.
Additionally, training of health care workers in enhanced surveillance across all provinces is in progress, in line with our intensified surveillance strategy for COVID-19. The Ministry continues to be on II IGII alert to the COV1D-19 pandemic and would like to remind the nation that, the most effective ways to protect yourself and others against COVID-19 are to practise good personal hygiene and exercise social distancing.
For assistance, please call the COVID-19 tollfree hotline number: 2019.
As the country grapples to contain the coronavirus, opportunists are taking the crisis as a gold-paved pathway to fortune, even if it comes at the cost of human lives.
Some pharmacies and individuals are illegally selling unapproved and mostly faulty Covid-19 rapid test kits for prices ranging from US$35 to US$55 per unit.
A box containing 25 test kits costs around US$900.
The cost also includes testing services.
Daring traders are marketing their products and services on social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp.
But the more cautious ones are making use of word of mouth.
Government has outlawed the private sale of test kits and testing of suspected Covid-19 cases outside prescribed medical facilities.
This was after it emerged that most of the rapid test kits on sale did not comply with Ministry of Health and Child Care and World Health Organisation (WHO) specifications and protocols.
Health authorities argue the kits often produce erroneous results.
It is a concern that has been flagged worldwide, including in the United States of America.
But the ban fell on deaf ears!
Investigations by The Sunday Mail Society reveal the illegal trade is rife.
The dealers are capitalising on non-availability of mass testing in registered healthcare facilities with approved Covid-19 testing kits.
However, the situation is expected to improve after Government recently decentralised testing as part of concerted efforts to ramp up the exercise.
Overall, authorities plan to test 1 000 samples of suspected Covid-19 cases per day following last week’s delivery of missing reagents from the Jack Ma Foundation, which recently donated 20 000 test kits.
Also, they received 3 000 rapid test kits, which have since been deployed to provinces. Additional kits were also received from WHO and the Africa Centre for Disease Control.
Illegal traders have easily won clients as they are alleged to be working in cahoots with well-placed health personnel.
They also deceive potential clients by claiming to diagnose, treat, cure and even prevent Covid-19.
The test kits give results in just 15 minutes.
Conversely, Government is using a testing protocol referred to as polymerase (PCR) chain reaction methods, which takes at least five hours to get results.
Bulawayo residents jostling for water from a browser.
THE Bulawayo City Council has started delivering water to residents in most high-density suburbs using bowsers as most areas continue to suffer from a tight water-shedding regime announced by the local authority.
Council announced that some parts of Pumula South, Emganwini and Magwegwe will only be reconnected to tap water if the city receives rainfall for the coming summer season around November. Bulawayo also introduced a tight water 108-hour weekly water-shedding in all residential areas, with indications that it would be extended.
Residents at the High density suburb of Pumula South were now solely relying on bowsers and a few boreholes dotted around the suburb for water. The residents are given 120 litres per household.
However, some residents said they were disappointed with the water allocation which was not enough to meet daily needs. Bulawayo supply dams are at 32 percent full as the water bodies received insignificant flows during the 2019/2020 rainy season.
Mrs Emma Kawara of Pumula South said water has become one of the biggest headaches for residents in the area.
“For the past two weeks we have not had water in our homes and this has gone out of hand as we also do not have a borehole that services our community. We rely on a borehole that is near Pumula South Clinic and that is about two kilometres away,” said Mrs Kawara.
Mr Elias Sibanda from the same area said residents were resorting to sourcing water from unclean and unhygienic places.
“There are pits that are in the veld that separates Pumula South and Pumula East and as residents, we are now collecting water from the pits. The water is dirty but we have no other choice as the council is doing nothing to make sure that we get water from our taps,” said Mr Sibanda.
The water crisis has worsened at a time when the world is being encouraged to maintain high standards of hygiene in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
A council official who spoke on condition of anonymity said the supply of water using water bowsers was meant to ensure that people at least have something “in these difficult times”.
“The supply of water using the water bowsers has been ongoing since we introduced the water shedding programme and it is for those suburbs who go beyond the water shedding schedule without water. We also supply water to areas where there are funerals during water shedding,” he said.
The local authority’s senior public relations officer, Mrs Nesisa Mpofu, is on record as saying the city was failing to sustain the daily water consumption rate, hence the affected areas will now be serviced with bowsers and boreholes.
State Media|THE National Chairman of the Ministerial Taskforce on Covid-19, Vice-President Kembo Mohadi has said there was more work to be done to combat the spread of the coronavirus in the country.
VP Mohadi said this during a visit to Lupane District yesterday where he was assessing the state of preparedness for Matabeleland North to deal with the cases, in case of an outbreak. His Matabeleland North tour followed the one he undertook in Bulawayo on Friday.
The country will, however, know today the way forward concerning the national lockdown, with President Mnangagwa expected to make a pronouncement on whether the lockdown will be lifted or extended. The 21-day national lockdown which started on 30 March is due to end at midnight today.
“The lockdown was not a pleasant decision but we could not wait and see our people dying when there was an option to lockdown. We put the protection of the people’s lives first than any other thing. We could not wait for people to die because they want to sell their wares. They just had to stop selling their wares and doing their business while the situation is controlled. It is the President who pronounces these things (lockdown) and I am not doing his job. He will make the pronouncements that are fit,” he said.
VP Mohadi said he was satisfied with the preparedness in Matabeleland North although some few changes needed to be done.
“I have been checking on the preparedness of the province and also to conscientise the people on how deadly the disease is and that they also need to go for testing. They do not need to wait for the symptoms of the virus to show. As the chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Taskforce, we want to test as many people as possible so that we are sure that Zimbabweans are free of this virus. People seem to have been taking it easy as if it’s any other day so we want to change that,” he said.
He toured Lupane State University hostels which have been set aside as a quarantine centre and St Lukes Hospital which would serve as an isolation centre.
“Well the facilities are there but they need quite a lot of sprucing up especially the one at St Lukes Hospital. The isolation centre is between residential areas, the hospital is a small distance away from the line of demarcation with residential homes. We need to do something in that regard, we need to ensure there is real isolation. It should not be isolation in terms of the work only but it must be seen that the people are isolated. We cannot transport a person from Jambezi all the way to Bulawayo to be isolated. So, the centres that are here in Matabeleland North will serve to assist the people.”
Meanwhile, Matabeleland South has identified isolation centres within its seven districts which would handle cases of Covid-19. The province has not yet recorded any case of the virus. In Insiza, Pangani Training Centre, Mbodo Clinic, Shangani Mine Hall and Filabusi District Hospital have been identified as isolation centres while in Umzingwane, Esigodini District Hospital and Esikhoveni Training Institute are ready to carter for Covid-19 cases.
Yesterday, during a tour of Insiza and Umzingwane districts’ identified isolation centres, Minister of Environment, Climate, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu who is in charge of Matabeleland South Province under the Inter-Ministerial Taskforce on Covid-19 said centres for other districts would be revealed once they are assessed. Minister Ndlovu said there was a need for the community to be educated on self-isolation at homes.
“The progress that has been made during the lockdown period shows the commitment that the province has in ensuring that if it has a positive case, it will be able to deal with it. As statistics show that 80 percent of the positive patients can recover through isolation at their homes as seen by the Zimbabwean first Covid-19 case who is based in Victoria Falls and self-isolated at home for 31 days, there is a need to educate communities on how best they can achieve such a milestone,” said Minister Ndlovu.
He urged the security forces to ensure that the amacimbi harvesters and illegal miners also follow the lockdown regulations.
“The province is rich in gold and amacimbi and as we fight the pandemic, there is a need for the provincial community to work together and stay at home. In regards to that, we urge the security forces to work with the community in making sure they abide by the lockdown rules and follow ways of mitigating the spread of the virus,” said Minister Ndlovu.
Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs Cde Abednico Ncube urged various stakeholders to contribute towards the cause of curbing the spread of Covid-19.
“As a province, we have a test of safeguarding our zero positive cases and that can only be achieved through unity. The frontline workers should be given all the support which they deserve as they sacrifice their lives to guarantee a future for the nation,” said Cde Ncube.
Also present at the Insiza and Umzingwane district identified isolation centres tour were Insiza North MP Cde Farai Taruvinga, his Insiza South counterpart Cde Spare Sithole, Government officials and service chiefs.
State Media|ZIMBABWE will this week open the Beitbridge Border Post to receive without conditions more than 3 000 of its citizens most of whom crossed the border illegally into South Africa and have requested that they be sent back home in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Deputy Minister Lovemore Matuke told Sunday News in an interview on Friday that the country was going to open the border post this week to receive more than 3 000 citizens from the neighbouring country.
Hovever, he could not reveal the exact day. He said all logistics with their South African counterparts were being made to allow even those without the requisite papers to pass through.
“We are going to open the Beitbridge Border Post to allow for the passage of the country’s citizens back into the country. We have more than 3 000 who have requested to be sent back home.
“As you know the South African side of the border is closed too, but we have made arrangements that they be allowed to pass.
“We are therefore saying even those without the required papers should not be afraid. No one is going to be arrested. We don’t want them to use illegal channels to come back because we want to account for everyone in the wake of Covid-19.
“The Government has put everything in place to ensure they are catered for,” said Deputy Minister Matuke.
He said some of them were of no fixed abode in South Africa and were living a cat and mouse life with that country’s law enforcement agents while others were doing odd jobs which have been cut off by the novel pandemic with South Africa last week extending its lockdown period by two more weeks.
The first phase was for three weeks.
The Deputy Minister said they have created space at the National Social Security Authority’s (Nssa) Beitbridge Hotel in readiness for the arrival of the migrants from South Africa where those returning will be isolated and tested for the disease.
He added that the Government will, through the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, provide the necessary supplies during their stay at the identified hotel.
Deputy Minister Matuke said he would be touring facilities that have been set to host the country’s citizens that have chosen to return home from neighbouring countries in the wake of a regional lockdown caused by Covid-19.
“We have people coming from Botswana who are housed at Hillside Teachers College, Bulawayo Polytechnic and some at Plumtree High School. I will be touring those places to get an appreciation of their safety to handle the numbers.
“Government and its partners will also be providing for them in terms of food and other provisions,” he said.
Asked on street children, destitutes and mental patients littering the streets of the country’s urban areas, Deputy Minister Matuke said in most areas those have been taken care of.
“We have taken street kids to various children’s homes while mental patients have been taken to psychiatric hospitals. We are, however, receiving reports that some are running away from the homes we have put them but our security forces are on the ground to enforce the lockdown and make sure no-one exposes themselves to the pandemic,” he said.
Deputy Minister Matuke said the Government was working to capacitate children’s homes that have absorbed the street kids.
He said vulnerable households have started receiving the $180 amounts the Government promised, hinting that the process was delayed by the vetting process.
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwean Embassy in Namibia has also requested all Zimbabwean nationals who have been affected by the lockdown and wish to travel back home to register their names tomorrow and on Tuesday. However, unlike those in South Africa, those in Namibia are required to have valid travelling documents and national identity cards and they would meet their own travelling costs.
A letter written by the Consular Department says those that want to travel would go through Zambia where there is a possibility of a 14-day quarantine at the Zambian border before proceeding to Zimbabwe.
“There will also be a mandatory 21-day quarantine upon arrival in Zimbabwe,” reads part of the letter by the Consular Department. We are, however, receiving reports that some are running away from the homes we have put them but our security forces are on the ground to enforce the lockdown and make sure no one exposes themselves to the pandemic,” he said.
Deputy Minister Matuke said the Government was working to capacitate children’s homes that have absorbed the street kids.
He said vulnerable households have started receiving the $180 amounts the Government promised, hinting that the process was delayed by the vetting process.
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwean Embassy in Namibia has also requested all Zimbabwean nationals who have been affected by the lockdown and wish to travel back home to register their names tomorrow and on Tuesday. However, unlike those in South Africa, those in Namibia are required to have valid travelling documents and national identity cards and they would meet their own travelling costs.
A letter written by the Consular Department says those that want to travel would go through Zambia where there is a possibility of a 14-day quarantine at the Zambian border before proceeding to Zimbabwe.
“There will also be a mandatory 21-day quarantine upon arrival in Zimbabwe,” reads part of the letter by the Consular Department.
State Media|BULAWAYO hospitals require 200 ventilators and 500 beds for them to be fully equipped to deal with coronavirus (Covid-19) cases in the event that more people are infected and need hospitalisation in the city.
As of Friday, the city had the highest number of Covid-19 cases, at 10, in the country with health officials calling on the need for people to be more aggressive in terms of observing measures to minimise the spread of the virus.
The list of equipment was compiled by the “I am for Bulawayo — Fighting Covid-19 initiative” which is working with the Government and the Bulawayo City Council in spearheading the equipping of the city hospitals as part of the fight against the pandemic.
According to the list, the initiative requires US$10,7 million for it to ensure that Mpilo Central, Thorngrove Infectious Diseases, Mater Dei and Ekusileni hospitals are fully equipped to handle Covid-19 cases. The initiative has since divided its response into four main pillars — bio-medical, social, behaviour change communication and resource mobilisation.
According to the financial breakdown, the bio-medical response will take the bulk of the money required with a projected budget of US$10 million, social response requires; US$500 000, behaviour change; US$100 000 and resource mobilisation also requires US$100 000.
“The bio-medical response is aimed at strengthening health systems to reduce Covid-19 infections, morbidity and mortalities. The main activities being to secure equipment, that is 500 beds, 20 defibrillators, 200 ventilators, 10 dialysis machines, linen for the 500 beds, polymerase chain reaction test kits, generators and solar installations, hospital furniture and train health care providers and co-ordinate response.
“For the social response, the aim is to sustain livelihoods, food and income security, psycho-social well-being of citizens during the Covid-19 season, with the activities being to provide food baskets or cash transfers, hygiene kits, and access to psycho-social services, and advocate for safe livelihood activities,” the initiative said.
The initiative also aims to provide effective communication and citizen engagement in relation to hygiene and social distancing through strengthening citizen engagement platforms and behaviour change facilitation and the creation and reproduction of information, education and communication materials.
“The initiative seeks to achieve the containment and effective management of the Covid-19 in Bulawayo and surrounding areas through furnishing and equipping the four hospitals — Mpilo, Thorngrove, Mater Dei and Ekusileni — selected for comprehensive care, treatment and support following testing, contact tracing and isolation of potential Covid-19 cases in Bulawayo.
“It is a multi-stakeholder group that brings together medical professionals, the business community, NGOs, churches, academic institutions, the Zimbabwean Diaspora and the Bulawayo community at large, to mobilise resources (human, financial and material) to fight against Covid-19 in Zimbabwe’s second largest city, Bulawayo, and surrounding areas,” reads part of the document.
For accountability purposes the initiative is being accounted for by PNA Accountants with Deloitte being confirmed as the auditor while the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) will provide secretariat services and Coghlan and Welsh are the legal advisors.
The initiative, chaired by Bulawayo industrialist, Mr Busisa Moyo was launched two weeks ago and is working with the Government to, among other things, spearhead the reopening of Ekusileni Hospital which has been closed since 2001.
Speaking during the virtual launch of the initiative, Mr Moyo said their task was to spearhead the fight against the spread of the pandemic in the city.
He called upon all businesses, the church and individuals to donate towards the cause, noting that the only way to win the fight against the spread of Covid-19 was for all to come together rather than wait for the Government to play a lead role.
“We are not in this for the money, ours is all about coming together and seeing how we can help our city fight the spread of this pandemic, which is why all the monies received will be accounted for and audited, all of us are doing this on a voluntary basis,” said Mr Moyo.
State Media|ZIMBABWEANS should get ready to go back to work with increased discipline as the country readies to achieve speedy economic recovery in the next 10 years to transform it into an upper middle-class economy by 2030, President Mnangagwa has said.
Delivering his Independence speech broadcast on television, to the nation to mark 40 years of Independence yesterday, President Mnangagwa said despite disruption brought about by the coronavirus (Covid-19), the country remained on track to achieve its Vision 2030.
The main celebrations were supposed to be held in Bulawayo but had to be cancelled due to the lockdown measures that were put in place by the Government to deal with the pandemic.
“Beyond grappling with the Covid-19 pandemic, we have to keep our economy functional. Unavoidable shocks and disruptions must be mitigated. Once the lockdown is over, we must all get back to work, with discipline and harder effort as we ready ourselves for a speedy economic recovery. The silver lining to the present global health crisis is the awakening of our national creativity and inventiveness,” he said.
President Mnangagwa said the coming decade should define the country’s economic trajectory.
“Independence is about determining our own fate and choosing to take our destiny into our hands. We are now a 40-year-old democracy; a mature nation. As we begin this important ‘Decade of Action’, may we never lose focus of the bigger vision, to develop and modernise Zimbabwe towards an upper middle-income economy by 2030.
“I, therefore, urge you all listening and watching, to join me in seizing the moment with fighting spirit, as gallant and fearless warriors; towards a prosperous future. Through us, individually and collectively, the vision, hopes, dreams and aspirations of those who lifted our flag and celebrated that 1st Independence Day 40 years ago, must remain alive!”
He also assured the nation that no one will starve although the country is enduring another drought.
“Today our stocks are being replenished through massive food imports. Food will reach vulnerable households so that no one will starve, this includes those in urban areas. Orphans and vulnerable children continue to benefit from the Basic Education Assistance Module, BEAM, with a total of 1,2 million children expected to be on the scheme this year,” he said.
The President reiterated that there is no going back on the land reform programme as it was a fundamental cog to the nation’s independence and sovereignty but noted that there was a need for continuous fine-tuning of strategies to enhance land utilisation, equitable access and productivity.
He said the expansion of grain production to a broader variety of traditional crops, besides maize will eventually yield the desired benefits from the agrarian reform.
“I want to express gratitude to all our farmers who have managed to produce to sustain and feed our nation, even under several consecutive droughts. Henceforth, our thrust is to make our agriculture adapt to climate-change. The more than half a billion dollars set aside for the rehabilitation and expansion of irrigation projects countrywide, has marked the emphatic implementation of smart agriculture. Government will continue to put in place the appropriate incentives to encourage this new trajectory. The Presidential Input Support Scheme and other Smart Agriculture strategies outlined in the Agriculture Recovery Plan, are being consolidated to enable beneficiaries under these schemes to excel,” said the President.
He said the country’s mechanisation project was on course, with more agricultural equipment coming in from across the world.
Turning to the economy, the President said the mining sector should now reposition itself to be at the core of resuscitating the country’s economy.
“The mining sector must redouble its efforts to facilitate the resuscitation of our economy. Projects already underway across different minerals, coupled with the ongoing reforms give hope that the target of a 12 billion-dollar mining sector by 2023 is achievable.
“In the energy sector, it is pleasing that the water inflow into Kariba Dam, which is a key source of our hydro-power, is improving. It is integral that the energy mix continues to improve with regards to both the thermal generation capacity as well as renewable energy sources. I, thus, urge all stakeholders to be robust, flexible and responsive and to keep the bigger national interest in perspective. Silo mentalities have no place in the course we are taking,” said President Mnangagwa.
He said at Hwange Power Station, Units seven and eight which were under construction are expected to be commissioned during the second quarter of next year, which will help improve energy supplies in the country, bringing in an additional 600 megawatts to the national grid.
President Mnangagwa said with his guidance the Second Republic remained committed to the engagement and re-engagement policy revealing that the country’s diplomatic missions have refocused towards economic diplomacy, through the promotion of trade and investment, for win-win partnerships.
“We harbour no ill-will against any nation. Zimbabwe seeks and pursues friendship with all peoples and nations. We are further optimistic that those nations which have wronged and hurt us, will realise that there is more to be gained from friendship and alliances. Meanwhile, we thank all those who have weighed in to call for the lifting of these illegal sanctions.
“I thank the European Union for softening its stance towards us. I implore Washington to promptly lift these illegal sanctions against us without any preconditions. They are illegal and hurtful to our people; Zimbabwe does not deserve them,” he said.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa will make the announcement.
THE Inter-Ministerial Taskforce on Covid-19 is expected to meet today to deliberate on whether the 21-day national lockdown will be lifted or extended, ahead of the expiry of the restrictions at midnight.
Afterwards, President Mnangagwa is expected announce the next course of action.
The lockdown, which imposes limits on human movement and outdoor activities, was imposed on March 30 to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
In Zimbabwe, the disease has killed three people while 24 others have been infected with the virus.
In making the decision to lift or extend the lockdown, authorities are expected to factor in suggestions from assessments made in all the country’s 10 provinces on the nationwide capacity to combat the virus.
Yesterday, Vice Presidents Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi travelled to Mashonaland Central and Matabeleland North respectively as part of the continued assessment on the action plan to combat the virus.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa yesterday told The Sunday Mail that the announcement on the next course of action will be made today.
“As you are aware, it was the President who made the announcement when the lockdown was announced. As the chair of the Cabinet taskforce, we will seek direction from him on the next course of action and it will be announced after the taskforce meeting which will be held tomorrow (today),” she said.
During the past three weeks, Zimbabweans have by and large complied with the directive to limit movements and stay at home, although cases of defiance have also been recorded.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi encouraged members of the public to comply with any position taken by the authorities.
“We will be guided by what the authorities say and enforce the measures accordingly. We encourage people to take heed of Government’s directives so that they do not encounter problems with law enforcement,” he said.
Asst Comm Nyathi said as of yesterday, 8 673 people had been arrested for defying the lockdown.
“Bulawayo had the most number of people at 1 887, while Manicaland had 1 724. In Harare 1 081 people were arrested while the figure was 1 217 for the Midlands. Other provinces recorded less than 1 000 arrests,” he said.
Last week, World Health Organisation (WHO) director-general Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus gave recommendations on countries that have imposed lockdowns, saying restrictions imposed to control the spread of Covid-19 should be lifted only if health systems have abilities to test, isolate, treat and trace every contact.
Dr Ghebreyesus also said countries should lift the restrictions if the transmission of the virus is controlled and ensure that outbreak risks are minimal in specialised settings such as nursing homes and health institutions.
“Some countries and communities have now endured several weeks of social and economic restrictions. Some countries are considering when they can lift these restrictions. Others are considering when to introduce them.
“On both cases, these decisions must be based on protecting human health and be guided by what we know about the virus and how it behaves. We are all learning all the time and adjusting our strategy based on the latest available evidence,” said Dr Ghebreyesus.”
There have been mixed feelings on whether the lockdown should be extended or lifted.
Small and Medium Enterprises Association of Zimbabwe chief executive Mr Farai Mutambanengwe proposed a partial lifting of the lockdown.
“It cannot be continued in its current form. Informal workers, who are majority of our population, are not able to earn money,” he said.
Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights chair Dr Fortune Nyamande told our sister paper The Herald that he advocated for the extension of the lockdown during which a massive screening and testing programme should be undertaken.
Government has already ramped up testing and is now conducting more than 1,000 tests a day after opening testing centres in all 10 provinces.
Farai Dziva|Robert Mugabe Junior, the son of the late veteran politician and former President of Zimbabwe, Robert Mugabe, has claimed that his father sacrificed his life for the people of Zimbabwe.
Mugabe who was forced to relinquish power by his long time aide, Emmerson Mnangagwa, in a military led revolt under the code name Operation Restore Legacy in 2017, was a seasoned politician who used “guerrilla tactics” to outfox his foes.
During his reign of terror, as they say, Mugabe used the dreaded Central Intelligence Organisation to suppress dissenting voices.
In his Independence Day message, Robert Mugabe Junior, quoted by Mbare Times, said : “Zim@40: my father was a servant of Zimbabweans, he sacrificed his life for you”.
Commenting on Robert Mugabe Junior’s remarks, Masvingo based political analyst, Batsiranai Ngugama said in a statement :
Mugabe wronged us. There are a number of things he certainly did which were wrong.
We are in this mess because of him. Gukurahundi issue, corruption, human rights abuse, graft, unplanned land seizures…
During his tenure we lost very competent people.
He adopted stupid polices, invited Chinese into our country. He distorted history, recycled dead wood rejected by the people.
With Jonso he literally destroyed media plurality and diversity.
However, we must remember that he also made some positive contributions to the development of the education system, healthcare and emancipation of the majority.
Any leader must MENTION HIS NAME ON INDEPENDENCE DAY.
While others are bemoaning the loss of business of life during quarantine, the woman who calls herself Mavis is beaming with happiness in Bulawayo.
The last three weeks have been profitable for her. A glance, and that is all a potential buyer gets, at her kitchen floor reveals the reason why.
Boxes full of Jameson Irish Whiskey, Gordon’s London Dry Gin and 1818 Smirnoff vodka litter her kitchen floor. These brands, whose names only are enough to make any imbiber salivate, battle for space in the tiny kitchen of her one-bedroom apartment on the outskirts of the Bulawayo CBD.
Despite the bottles in front of this reporter, she proudly proclaims that she has run out of Gordon’s, one of her priced products.
“All that you see here has been bought. People have been ordering boxes so we are now officially out of gin stock. The best that you can do now is some 1818 but with the way that people are buying I don’t expect that to last long too.”
Gin has been one of the most in-demand products during the nationwide lockdown as imbibers seek to quench their thirst and fend off boredom while dodging the deadly Covid-19.
“What I can say is that we noticed a spike in the demand for gin around late 2018 to the start of 2019,” said Mduduzi Mdlongwa of 3D Events.
“Now at our bars Gordons is the biggest seller. It moves very fast and that has been the trend for a while and I guess it has continued during this quarantine. It’s surprising to us because when we were growing up in the 90s, we only used to know Gordon’s as the drink that old men used to love to drink. Now it’s the younger people that love it and other gin brands. I would say this is because of its affordability and the universality gin brings because it is liked by both men and women which is rare.”
By yesterday afternoon, most underground retailers of gin had run out of the much-coveted product in the city. The few that had it in stock had already raised the price from the usual US$6 to as much as US$10.
Also available were bottles of Southern Comfort Lime for US$12, Southern Comfort Original for US$12, Stretton’s Triple Berry Gin for $US8, Red label US$11 Klipdrift US$7 KWV (3 Years old) US$7 and Jameson Irish Whiskey US$15.
While the alcohol has been available from backdoor or car boot sellers, the trouble for the thirsty has been how to collect it. The “retailers”, who seemed to have found a way around police roadblocks, especially in the eastern suburbs, seemed to have found a way around this as well.
While some only offered to drop off their illicit merchandise at designated points in the CBD, others have been going the extra mile, offering a dial-a-delivery service during the lockdown. For an extra charge of US$2 bottles can be delivered right to the customer’s doorstep. Those purchasing larger quantities of alcohol are given first priority.
But where is the alcohol, most of which is imported, coming from? In the western suburbs, the owners of bottle stores have found a way to get around the closure of their places of businesses by offloading their stocks to their houses or those of their workers. Near Sekusile Shopping Centre in the high-density suburb of Nkulumane, bottles of the African Distillers’ Star Cane spirit decorated the grounds around the taxi rank when Sunday Life visited last week.
According to an imbiber who spoke to Sunday Life, bottle store owners had simply shifted base after being instructed to close shop.
“We now just buy from their homes because they moved their stock. It’s there in their bedrooms and if you have the money you will not struggle for a drink.”
While Star Cane vodka and other locally manufactured products have flourished during the lockdown, they have in general also suffered at the hands of the alcohol “vendors” selling from the back of their cars.
“Performance of the spirit segment was negatively impacted by the prevalence of counterfeits and illicit alcoholic beverages. Consumer trends have shown a shift from premium and mainstream segments to value products in reaction to the erosion of disposable incomes,” said Afdis chairman Mr Pearson Gowero, in a statement accompanying the company’s financial report recently.
Most of the alcohol being consumed during lockdown came from neighbouring South Africa. While some of it is counterfeit alcohol reportedly bought from illegal immigrants from places like Fordsburg, Johannesburg, some of the brands that make their way to the high-end retailers in the City of Kings are legitimate. But how is it possible that the price of a bottle of Gordon’s in South Africa is below or on par with those sold in Bulawayo?
“The booze is sourced from different places,” Anderson Ncube, a bartender at a posh bar in Sandton, South Africa, told Sunday Life. “There are people who stock from wholesales. Another cheap source is by the duty-free shop at the border where it’s mostly tax free. But the majority of booze is stolen from restaurants, hotels and night clubs. In South Africa credit card fraud is also lucrative, once I clone your Visa bank card, I can go and swipe booze at a wholesale and sell it at three quarters of the wholesale price,” he said.
ZIMBABWE will this week open the Beitbridge Border Post to receive without conditions more than 3 000 of its citizens most of whom crossed the border illegally into South Africa and have requested that they be sent back home in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Deputy Minister Lovemore Matuke told Sunday News in an interview on Friday that the country was going to open the border post this week to receive more than 3 000 citizens from the neighbouring country.
Hovever, he could not reveal the exact day. He said all logistics with their South African counterparts were being made to allow even those without the requisite papers to pass through.
“We are going to open the Beitbridge Border Post to allow for the passage of the country’s citizens back into the country. We have more than 3 000 who have requested to be sent back home.
“As you know the South African side of the border is closed too, but we have made arrangements that they be allowed to pass.
“We are therefore saying even those without the required papers should not be afraid. No one is going to be arrested. We don’t want them to use illegal channels to come back because we want to account for everyone in the wake of Covid-19.
“The Government has put everything in place to ensure they are catered for,” said Deputy Minister Matuke.
He said some of them were of no fixed abode in South Africa and were living a cat and mouse life with that country’s law enforcement agents while others were doing odd jobs which have been cut off by the novel pandemic with South Africa last week extending its lockdown period by two more weeks.
The first phase was for three weeks.
The Deputy Minister said they have created space at the National Social Security Authority’s (Nssa) Beitbridge Hotel in readiness for the arrival of the migrants from South Africa where those returning will be isolated and tested for the disease.
He added that the Government will, through the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, provide the necessary supplies during their stay at the identified hotel.
Deputy Minister Matuke said he would be touring facilities that have been set to host the country’s citizens that have chosen to return home from neighbouring countries in the wake of a regional lockdown caused by Covid-19.
“We have people coming from Botswana who are housed at Hillside Teachers College, Bulawayo Polytechnic and some at Plumtree High School. I will be touring those places to get an appreciation of their safety to handle the numbers.
“Government and its partners will also be providing for them in terms of food and other provisions,” he said.
Asked on street children, destitutes and mental patients littering the streets of the country’s urban areas, Deputy Minister Matuke said in most areas those have been taken care of.
“We have taken street kids to various children’s homes while mental patients have been taken to psychiatric hospitals. We are, however, receiving reports that some are running away from the homes we have put them but our security forces are on the ground to enforce the lockdown and make sure no-one exposes themselves to the pandemic,” he said.
Deputy Minister Matuke said the Government was working to capacitate children’s homes that have absorbed the street kids.
He said vulnerable households have started receiving the $180 amounts the Government promised, hinting that the process was delayed by the vetting process.
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwean Embassy in Namibia has also requested all Zimbabwean nationals who have been affected by the lockdown and wish to travel back home to register their names tomorrow and on Tuesday. However, unlike those in South Africa, those in Namibia are required to have valid travelling documents and national identity cards and they would meet their own travelling costs.
A letter written by the Consular Department says those that want to travel would go through Zambia where there is a possibility of a 14-day quarantine at the Zambian border before proceeding to Zimbabwe.
“There will also be a mandatory 21-day quarantine upon arrival in Zimbabwe,” reads part of the letter by the Consular Department. We are, however, receiving reports that some are running away from the homes we have put them but our security forces are on the ground to enforce the lockdown and make sure no one exposes themselves to the pandemic,” he said.
Deputy Minister Matuke said the Government was working to capacitate children’s homes that have absorbed the street kids.
He said vulnerable households have started receiving the $180 amounts the Government promised, hinting that the process was delayed by the vetting process.
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwean Embassy in Namibia has also requested all Zimbabwean nationals who have been affected by the lockdown and wish to travel back home to register their names tomorrow and on Tuesday. However, unlike those in South Africa, those in Namibia are required to have valid travelling documents and national identity cards and they would meet their own travelling costs.
A letter written by the Consular Department says those that want to travel would go through Zambia where there is a possibility of a 14-day quarantine at the Zambian border before proceeding to Zimbabwe.
“There will also be a mandatory 21-day quarantine upon arrival in Zimbabwe,” reads part of the letter by the Consular Department.
By Nkosiyazi Kan Kanjiri| The generality of Zimbabwean’s has, in the past two weeks been drawn to the MDC Supreme Court ruling like mosquitos to a lantern.
In what the main opposition laments as the weaponisation of the law, the powers that be stirred the hornet’s nest throwing Zimbabweans into a pandemonium.
The timing of the ruling was suspicious. Delivered in the midst of the COVID 19 pandemic lockdown, it sent tongues wagging. The verdict generated a brawled debate across the political milieu, this time, not between ZANU PF and MDC but within the MDC.
Social media has since been buzzing, awash with debates of polarity between the MDC families.
Some have been healthy. Some have been toxic bordering on bigotry and name calling. It is messy.
The MDC dogfight has gained the audience of ZANU PF which jeers and cheers from the terraces. It must be understood that ZANU PF does not create fissures in the MDC. It simply exploits them.
If the MDC does not play its cards close to the chest, ZANU PF will emerge as the proverbial enemy that reaps when two brothers fight.
The mdc power wrangle is a dramatic case of a clash between law and politics.
The Supreme Court ruling is not the problem. To interpret it as such is to miss the bigger picture. The ruling, if anything is a manifestation of a major crisis – the abortion of constitutionalism in the party that happens to be Zimbabwe’s only alternative.
Constitutional breaches in the MDC have been perennial. The Tsvangirai-Biti split of 2014 is among many others, an epic example.
More than a victim of the weponisation of the law by the state, the MDC is being haunted by its own omissions and commissions.
Perhaps the words of Professor Welshman Ncube, one of the MDC’s many prodigal sons whose damascene moment came when Dr Morgan Tsvangirai extended an olive branch to him before his demise are worth considering.
“Admittedly, things could have been done differently in the MDC T. But given that the major fault line legally had been done in 2016, there is pretty little that anyone could have done in 2018 even with the benefit of hindsight the moment you say the appointments of Tsvangirai were unlawful at law, they existed two years later in 2018, you were not going to be able to undo them. Yes there are legal issues which have been problematic but ultimately we must always be mindful that politics is not about legality. Politics is about the people.”
Prof Welshman Ncube MDC A Vice President Professor Ncube’s words are not only self-defeating but are a reflection of the character of the MDC. A constitutional lawyer cum politician, the professor is the MDC personified. Like his party, he is at war with himself.
It needs no rocket scientist to deduce that the professor’s opening sentence to his statement points to the issue of legitimacy surrounding the MDC succession squabble. However, he is quick to blame it on another constitutional glitch by the late Dr Morgan Tsvangirai, founder of the MDC.
More than doing any good to the current position of the party, his blame shifting shenanigans further expose the root of the MDC crisis, that even during Dr Morgan Tsvangirai’s reign, the MDC has been in a habit of raping and ripping its own constitution without remorse.
The MDC constitutional breach of 2016 went unchallenged because of the guts and courage crisis that is characteristic of our politics. We make deities out of our leaders so much that if they were a book, they would be the bible, only to be read without criticism.
We are where we are as a country because of the same problem from ZANU PF. We build our trust and loyalty around individuals. Not institutions.
Kowtowing deprives us of the capacity to provide checks and balances to authorities. It reduces us to genuflectors good at nothing but bootlicking.
Professor Weshman Ncube in his statement reminds us of the feud between politics and the law that politics is not about legality but the people. Again this is another gaffe. It robes the MDC of the moral ground to challenge ZANU PF on any matters constitutional.
Whereas the MDC says politics is not about the law but authority from the people, ZANU PF rides on the premise that politics is not about law but power derived from state apparatus.
As long as the two parties have a reason to bend the law, and reduce it to a restaurant menu where they choose only what appeases them, they are two sides of the same coin.
If for the MDC tempering with its own constitution is a means to the end then Zimbabwe shall know no peace. We have seen, for many years ZANU PF putting the country’s constitution under siege for similar reasons; to achieve political ends.
If the MDC does not mend its modus operandi it risks shrinking itself from an alternative to a ZANU PF substitute. Putting the character of the MDC under spotlight with regards to constitutionalism is tantamount to kicking a tinderbox.
However, if we, as a nation, are serious about restoring constitutionalism and democracy, there must not be sacred cows in the highway.
Nkosiyazi Kan Kanjiri is a Social Work Masters Student at the University of Fort Hare, South Africa. He can be contacted on (+27) 079 422 6246 or [email protected]
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa is today expected to update the nation on whether the 21-day lockdown put in place as a measure to curb the spread of the coronavirus (Covid-19), which is coming to an end at midnight, will be extended or not.
The announcement will be based on resolutions that will be made after the Inter-Ministerial Taskforce on Covid-19 meeting today. In making the decision to lift or extend the lockdown, authorities are expected to factor in suggestions from assessments made in all the country’s 10 provinces on the nationwide capacity to combat the virus.
The President declared the nationwide 21-day lockdown that started on 30 March as part of means of preventing the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic, which to date has infected over two million people globally, with over 150 000 succumbing to the virus. In Zimbabwe as of last
Friday the country had recorded 24 positive cases including two recoveries and three deaths.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa yesterday told our Harare Bureau that the announcement on the next course of action would be made today.
“As you are aware, it was the President who made the announcement when the lockdown was announced. As the chair of the Cabinet taskforce, we will seek direction from him on the next course of action and it will be announced after the taskforce meeting which will be held tomorrow (today),” she said.
A number of nations, including Zimbabwe’s neighbours South Africa have extended their respective lockdowns with varying days citing need for more days to curb the spread of the pandemic in their countries. Delivering his Independence Day speech yesterday, President Mnangagwa paid gratitude to the nation for its response to the pandemic, especially regarding the collective appreciation and honouring of the 21-day lockdown. He applauded the various sectors that had combined forces in terms of fight against the spread of the pandemic noting that with unity, love and common purpose nothing can prevail against the nation.
“I equally want to thank some countries and partners from abroad such as the People’s Republic of China, United Kingdom, United States of America, United Arab Emirates, European Union, the World Health Organisation and other United Nations Agencies, as well as the Jack-Ma Foundation, among many other international organisations and well-wishers, who have generously supported our fight against Covid-19.
THE various strategies being employed in the ongoing fight against the novel coronavirus will continue even after the pandemic has been contained in order to improve the country’s readiness to deal with any similar outbreaks in future.
Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga said this yesterday at Chipindura High School in Bindura, Mashonaland Central, while assessing the province’s readiness to handle Covid-19 cases.
The Mashonaland Central tour followed a similar assessment mission in Mashonaland East on Friday.
The country’s top leadership is assessing the level of preparedness across the country.
“Even when this pandemic is over we are going to continue with such awareness programmes, and even the resources we have gathered will not be taken away so that in the future when we have such pandemics, our people will be better prepared and we are not found wanting,” said Chiwenga.
While well-wishers from all over the world could assist the country in fighting the virus, he said, the onus to defeat the disease lay with Zimbabweans.
“We may receive donations from outside, which is appreciated, but we should know that we are our own liberators, we must deal with this situation as Zimbabweans.”
He thanked ordinary people, corporates and other organisations that have contributed in cash and kind towards efforts to curb the spread of the disease.
Returning residents, citizens or other foreign visitors should be quarantined on entry at Government-controlled facilities to stem the spread of the disease, he said.
The Vice-President also censured fake prophets who were profiting by making false healing claims.
In his remarks, Mashonaland Central Provincial Medical Director Dr Clemence Tshuma said some of the materials the province needed include personal protective equipment (PPE) and food for frontline workers, ambulances and the setting up of an ICU (intensive care unit) at Mvurwi General Hospital, which has been designated as the province’s Covid-19 centre.
Chiwenga toured Chipadze Isolation Centre in Bindura, oguru Clinic in Mvurwi, Mvurwi General Hospital and other facilities in Mt Darwin and Guruve.
Separately, Chiwenga also said Zimbabweans should continue celebrating the sacrifices made by freedom fighters in liberating the country from colonial bondage despite foregoing the national festivities.
“Those who will come after us will be told that this year’s celebrations were unusual because we could not have our usual festivities due to Covid-19.
The celebrations were supposed to be held in Bulawayo in line with our devolution principle; however, we will celebrate our independence in our hearts and minds and remember those who perished or were maimed during the liberation struggle,” he said.-State media
By Jane Mlambo| Zimbabwe recorded one more coronavirus case to take the total number to 25, according to the ministry of health and child care.
In their daily update yesterday evening, the health ministry conducted 133 tests in all the ten provinces of Zimbabwe and out of the total number only one case in Harare tested positive.
The ministry said the case relates to a person who travelled out of Zimbabwe to Europe.
Despite conducting a record 1192 tests on Friday, the ministry backtracked and only conducted 133 raising questions if the targeted 33 000 tests will be achieved by 30 April.
Today the 18th of April like every year, we all reflect on our Great National event, that is our Independence Day. Despite the pains of uncertainty and fear caused by the covid-19 virus, we share together the values of our nationhood. We are called Zimbabweans because in 1980, the 18th of April a foreign flag was brought down and the Zimbabwean flag was raised. This happened because as a people we massively rejected to remain second class human beings in our land. We gave up our comfort of those days and many sacrificed their lives so that we could regain our dignity. Fellow Country men and women, we must forever cherish our Independence because we brought it with our own blood and sweat
As Zapu we are part of the toiling masses in our own motherland today. We are saddened by the level of greed by some Zimbabweans who have built so much power around themselves. This has led to an unforeseen socio-economic decay beyond our imagination. We watch with shock every time when we see a deliberate departure from what we had fought for so hard with all the sacrifice possible.
Zapu calls upon every Zimbabwean to accept the reality that as it was us the people who confronted the evil racist regime of Ian Smith, it has to be us now again to confront the state sponsored corruption and all the repressive mechanisms that we see every day .We must commit ourselves to fight for social justice, genuine freedom, human rights and democracy in our country.
We got our Independence but it has been painfully soiled by all evil that has culminated in desperate but very costly regime preservation tactics of rapacious people believing that our independence is their “affair”.
Fellow Zimbabweans, Zapu urges all Zimbabweans to redefine our independence to make it what it has to be.
By Jane Mlambo| Opposition MDC leader Nelson Chamisa has called for a radical transformation and creation of a society that embraces inclusivity among Zimbabweans saying the country is more divided that it was at independence in 1980.
Presenting his Independence day speech, Chamisa said it is imperative for Zimbabweans to now build a nation that everyone cherishes, something he says the liberation struggle generation failed to address post independence.
“On the national question, Zimbabweans are today more divided than they were at Independence in 1980.
“The liberation struggle generation has failed to address the national question. What is now needed is radical transformation by the next generation of leadership to create an enabling environment for an inclusive sense of belonging among Zimbabweans to build the kind of nation that Zimbabweans have always wanted to be.” said Chamisa.
He also called for an end to the era of violence saying the challenge is up to the next generation to resolve.
“There’s a need for the radical transformation of Zimbabwe’s electoral politics to put an end to the era of disputed elections. This is a challenge that the next generation of leadership must resolve,” said Chamisa.
MDC Alliance Treasurer General David Coltart has urged government to consider extending the current 21-day lockdown which set to end tomorrow (19 April) to the 5th of May when schools re-open.
Coltart urged the government, international community and the private sector to use the extension to work hard and implement a number of measures to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.
Some of the measures suggested by Coltart include testing of front line medical staff and those still working in public, provision of face masks for the unemployed, compelling businesses to enforce social distancing, all businesses to be compelled to use hand sanitizer, provision of free food to the poor, educating the police and army to enforce the lockdown humanely, among others.
Read Coltart’s statement below:
Some personal thoughts on Zimbabwe’s Coronavirus lockdown policy
The Zimbabwean Coronavirus lockdown is due to end at midnight on Sunday the 19th April. Mr Mnangagwa has stated that his government is going to review that policy and has suggested he will make a decision on the 20th April, but if it is left that late that will only cause unnecessary confusion. Businesses need to be able to plan ahead and government should announce its intentions today. It will cause chaos if government waits until the weekend, or after the weekend, to announce its decision.
Be that as it may any decision to end or extend the lockdown is fraught with problems. On the one hand it is clear that infections are rising and that Zimbabwe may only be at the early stages of its total number of infections, if statistics of other countries in the world are anything to go by. On the other hand it is clear that in many respects the lockdown is not working in Zimbabwe, and in any event is unsustainable. Lockdowns may work in countries with resilient economies but the danger in Zimbabwe is that more people may die from starvation than Covid 19. In addition it is virtually impossible for poor people to remain in their tiny homes for weeks on end without any ability to make an income and feed themselves.
It is clear that we need to finesse our lockdown policy so that we limit infections as far as possible but ensure that poor people in particular are not in greater danger from malnutrition than they are from Covid 19. We need to move away from the two extreme ends of the policy spectrum to a balance between a total lockdown and no lockdown at all. The current lockdown is clearly unsustainable but against that a sudden end to the lockdown could have catastrophic consequences.
Prior to making suggestions I must state the obvious. I do not have public health policy expertise, nor do I pretend to have it. I simply have been reading the views of a wide range of experts both within Zimbabwe and world wide and it seems to me that common sense dictates that the following broad principles should be applied:
1. It would be wrong to simply end the lockdown on Sunday. With infections rising in the country it will send a wrong and dangerous message to many Zimbabweans who are already not practising safe social distancing and personal hygiene methods, namely that the danger is past.
2. The current lockdown should be extended to the beginning of the next school term – Tuesday the 5th May – and during that extension government, the international community and the private sector must work vigorously on the following measures.
3. Government in conjunction with the international community must urgently ramp up testing of front line medical staff and those still working in public. As resources and testing kits become more freely available testing must be extended to all displaying symptoms of Covid 19.
4. Goverment in conjunction with the private sector must use this period to produce face masks on a massive scale which should be provided free to unemployed people and at a subsidised cost to others. By the 5th May it must be made mandatory for all people to wear masks in public places. Government should avail clothing manufacturing companies throughout Zimbabwe the necessary financial support to manufacture hundreds of thousands of masks in the coming weeks.
5. Government must immediately commence a massive education policy regarding social distancing and compel all government institutions and businesses to mark out 2 meter distances for customers in all public places. A range of new laws should be enacted to compel social distancing in all public places. Laws will have to be introduced to stipulate maximum numbers of people who can travel in various categories of public transport.
6. Government in conjunction with the private sector must ramp up the production and importation of hand sanitisers and laws must be introduced to compel all businesses and all institutions to use sanitisers at all entrances to all public buildings.
7. All efforts to expedite the refurbishment and fitting out of hospitals countrywide to accommodate Covid 19 patients should be made by government, the private sector and the international community. The Minister of Finance should regulate that any donations made by private citizens and companies towards recognised government hospitals or charities involved in this exercise should be tax deductible.
8. UN agencies have recently warned that over 5 million Zimbabweans are food insecure and many are malnourished. If we are to avoid widespread looting of stores during the lockdown government, with its international and civil society and church partners, must urgently designate food outlets throughout urban areas (particularly in high density areas) well controlled by the police, where basic food such as mealie meal, vegetables and cooking oil can either be provided to poor people for free or at minimal cost. The private sector should be engaged to assist in the transportation of food to the outlets and the general organisation thereof.
9. Government in conjunction with the private sector must rapidly escalate the production/ importation and supply of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for front line medical staff.
10. The police and army must immediately be clearly instructed and educated that their role is to enforce the lockdown humanely. The widespread reports of soldiers beating innocent civilians over the last few days are unacceptable. Those responsible for these beatings should be suspended and charged and statements should be made from the highest authorities that the role of the police and army is to assist the public to ensure that social distancing and hygiene measures are respected.
11. The lockdown provisions should be relaxed to the extent that people be allowed to exercise for two hours daily so long as they do not participate in groups of more than 3 people, practice safe social distancing habits and wear masks. This should be implemented immediately – poor people in particular cannot be expected to remain cramped up in tiny flats or homes for weeks on end. The existing policy is not working and is impossible to enforce.
12. The lockdown should be reviewed at the end of April and businesses given adequate warning if the lockdown is be varied on the 5th May.
13. In any event if the lockdown is varied, or reduced, on the 5th May provision must be made to extend the lockdown and protection of all institutions catering for particularly vulnerable people such as old age homes. Policies must be implemented to ensure that other vulnerable people, for example those suffering from diseases such as lung disease and diabetes, are protected as far as possible. In any event all large public gatherings where there is close contact of people in confined spaces should be banned indefinitely pending confirmation that infections are under control.
In closing it is clear that government does not have the resources needed to implement all of the policies suggested above. This can only be achieved if we get the support of both the private sector and the international community. With regard to the latter it is important that the key political leaders from across the political spectrum make a combined appeal and approach to the international community for assistance.
THE Inter-Ministerial Taskforce on Covid-19 is expected to meet today to deliberate on whether the 21-day national lockdown will be lifted or extended, ahead of the expiry of the restrictions at midnight.
Afterwards, President Mnangagwa is expected announce the next course of action.
The lockdown, which imposes limits on human movement and outdoor activities, was imposed on March 30 to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
In Zimbabwe, the disease has killed three people while 24 others have been infected with the virus.
In making the decision to lift or extend the lockdown, authorities are expected to factor in suggestions from assessments made in all the country’s 10 provinces on the nationwide capacity to combat the virus.
Yesterday, Vice Presidents Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi travelled to Mashonaland Central and Matabeleland North respectively as part of the continued assessment on the action plan to combat the virus.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa yesterday told The Sunday Mail that the announcement on the next course of action will be made today.
“As you are aware, it was the President who made the announcement when the lockdown was announced. As the chair of the Cabinet taskforce, we will seek direction from him on the next course of action and it will be announced after the taskforce meeting which will be held tomorrow (today),” she said.-State media
The Inspector General of Police, IGP M.A Adamu, NPM, mni condemns this unwarranted, unnecessary and unjustifiable assault on this innocent citizen (as shown in the attached viral video), at the Odo Ori Market, Iwo Osun State by men of the Force attached to Iwo Division, Osun pic.twitter.com/oNJ3iZdjY9
THE various strategies being employed in the ongoing fight against the novel coronavirus will continue even after the pandemic has been contained in order to improve the country’s readiness to deal with any similar outbreaks in future.
Vice-President Dr Constantino Chiwenga said this yesterday at Chipindura High School in Bindura, Mashonaland Central, while assessing the province’s readiness to handle Covid-19 cases.
The Mashonaland Central tour followed a similar assessment mission in Mashonaland East on Friday.
The country’s top leadership is assessing the level of preparedness across the country.
“Even when this pandemic is over we are going to continue with such awareness programmes, and even the resources we have gathered will not be taken away so that in the future when we have such pandemics, our people will be better prepared and we are not found wanting,” said VP Chiwenga.
While well-wishers from all over the world could assist the country in fighting the virus, he said, the onus to defeat the disease lay with Zimbabweans.
“We may receive donations from outside, which is appreciated, but we should know that we are our own liberators, we must deal with this situation as Zimbabweans.”
He thanked ordinary people, corporates and other organisations that have contributed in cash and kind towards efforts to curb the spread of the disease.
Returning residents, citizens or other foreign visitors should be quarantined on entry at Government-controlled facilities to stem the spread of the disease, he said.
The Vice-President also censured fake prophets who were profiting by making false healing claims.
In his remarks, Mashonaland Central Provincial Medical Director Dr Clemence Tshuma said some of the materials the province needed include personal protective equipment (PPE) and food for frontline workers, ambulances and the setting up of an ICU (intensive care unit) at Mvurwi General Hospital, which has been designated as the province’s Covid-19 centre.
VP Chiwenga toured Chipadze Isolation Centre in Bindura, Suwoguru Clinic in Mvurwi, Mvurwi General Hospital and other facilities in Mt Darwin and Guruve.
He was accompanied by Lands, Agriculture, Water and Rural Resettlement Minister Perrance Shiri, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Tsitsi Gezi, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe and Mashonaland Central Provincial Affairs Minister Monica Mavunga.
Separately, VP Chiwenga also said Zimbabweans should continue celebrating the sacrifices made by freedom fighters in liberating the country from colonial bondage despite foregoing the national festivities.
“Those who will come after us will be told that this year’s celebrations were unusual because we could not have our usual festivities due to Covid-19.
The celebrations were supposed to be held in Bulawayo in line with our devolution principle; however, we will celebrate our independence in our hearts and minds and remember those who perished or were maimed during the liberation struggle,” he said.-State media
ZANU PF President Emmerson Mnangagwa is today announcing the way forward for the nation after the 21-day lockdown period, as the fight against the spread of Covid-19 continues.
The national lockdown, which started on March 30, ends today.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Permanent Secretary Mr Nick Mangwana revealed, through a post on his twitter account Saturday afternoon, that the announcement on whether the national lockdown will continue or not will be made the following day.
“Regarding the question of whether the #LockDownZim will be extended or not, and if extended, what shape that will take, we would like to advise that an announcement will be made tomorrow,” noted Mr Mangwana.
Zimbabwe has been on lockdown to minimize movement of people as part of precautions to fight the spread of Covid 19.
So far, the country has confirmed 24 cases of Covid-19 including three recoveries and two deaths. A total of 2 493 people have been tested.- state media
Samson Choruwa says he lost interest in football when Dynamos mistreated him following a long lay-off with an injury he sustained in a league match against Masvingo United in 2002.
The former midfielder suffered a nasty knock on his leg which took two years to recover and the club didn’t help him pay for his medical.
Well-wishers such as Sporting Lions manager James Maridadi tried to assist but were frustrated by Dynamos who feared their player could be lured and leaves the club.
Twine Phiri who was the president of CAPS United at that time then intervened and helped the player.
After recovering, Choruwa’s services were deemed surplus by Dembare’s new coach Keagan Mumba and Makepekepe moved to sign him.
But a wrangle between the two Harare giants began over the ownership of the player.
In an interview with Herald, the retired player recalled how this pushed him out of football at a tender age.
“It (the injury) was so mysterious. Surprisingly, no one cared to take me to a hospital…”
“After Dynamos neglected me at a time that I needed their help the most, I decided it was time for me to join the club I had always wanted to play for, CAPS United.
“I tried to talk to Twine Phiri (then CAPS president) to secure my clearance but Dynamos would have none of it.
“But, after considering all my parents went through, I decided to quit football rather than return there. That’s how I left. I had lost interest.”
Both CAPS United and Dynamos attempted to get him back in the following seasons but Choruwa turned down the offers.
He later tried coaching in 2016 at now-defunct Budiriro Gunners in Division Two before securing a new job at a leading tobacco sales company.-Soccer24
By Dr Masimba Mavaza | Last week I tabulated the painful death of a family friend, Jane. She left behind a son and her loving husband who is my dearest friend and a fellow Zimbabwean. I was more humbled by the pouring of grief from all over the world. It is difficult to explain but all those who got in touch with me seriously believed it was my wife who had passed on. I received heart wrecking messages.
