Ministry of Health and Child Care CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) UPDATE: 07 APRIL 2020 The Ministry would like to report that today, the National Microbiology Reference Laboratory (NMRL) tested 21 samples. One of these, tested positive for COVID-19 bringing to eleven the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases reported to date.
However, this eleventh case passed away in hospital on Saturday 4th April 2020.
The eleventh case was a 79-year-old-male resident of Bulawayo who initially presented to a General Practitioner on the 23rd of March 2020 with a history of cough, sore throat and fever. When he did not improve on oral antibiotic treatment, he presented to a local hospital on Thursday 2 April 2020, where he was admitted.
At the time of admission, he had presented with cough, difficulty in breathing, sore throat and fever but no reported history of travel outside Zimbabwe.
He however indicated that he had been to a tourist resort in Hwange from the 14. to le March 2020. He was therefore admitted for clinical management as a case of bacterial Pneumonia with an underlying comorbidity.
His condition deteriorated during the evening of the day of admission and he was transferred to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for critical care and management in isolation under a Specialist Physician. The local COVID-19 Rapid Response Team was called in and samples were collected and sent to the NMRL for COVID-19 testing.
Whilst waiting for the COVID-I9 test results, the patient continued to receive intravenous antibiotics and additionally, he received medical treatment as a clinical case of COVID-19.
On Saturday the 4th April, his condition continued to deteriorate despite management in ICU until he deceased.
Contact tracing for the above case is in progress and the Ministry continues to be on HIGH alert to the COVID-I9 pandemic.
Meanwhile, the Ministry would like to remind the nation that, the most effective ways to protect yourself and others against COVID-I9 are to practise good personal hygiene and social distancing.
For assistance, please call the COVID-I9 toll free hotline number: 2019.
ILLEGAL money changers are slowly coming back to the city centre in Bulawayo while a majority are now operating from residential areas as the 21-day national lockdown entered Day 9 yesterday.
The money changers, in blatant defiance of the lockdown directive for people to stay at home, have started pushing street forex rates up again.
Government last week allowed businesses to trade in forex and pegged the US dollar at 1:25.
At the time, street rates were as high as 1:43 for electronic transfers and due to absence of money changers on the street, they went as low as 32 but had risen to around 39 yesterday.
The lockdown which started last week on Monday, is meant to mitigate against the spread of Covid-19 which has infected more than 1,3 million people globally and killed over 78 000.-State media
Farai Dziva|MDC Youth Assembly chairperson Tererai Obey Sithole has dismissed reports that Senator Douglas Mwonzora is now in charge of Morgan Tsvangirai House.
“The news that one Douglas Mwonzora has taken over our party HQ is fake and remains fake!!!
I was not only at the HQ but I was in my office, having conversations with some members of the staff manning our offices during this lockdown period.
Stay calm, President Nelson Chamisa is in charge,” Sithole wrote on Facebook.
“Just finished a very fruitful meeting with the MDC Alliance North America Province Youth Assembly leadership.
Their support remains unwavering, their message is very clear, Nelson Chamisa is our President. Locally & abroad shoko ndiro ndiro, Chamisa Chete Chete!”
MDC Alliance co-vice president Welshman Ncube has said the Thokozani Khupe-led MDC-T will not be able to hold an extraordinary congress as it lacks the required quorum.
In an interview with CITE , Ncube said Khupe, Douglas Mwonzora and Morgen Komichi cannot implement the Supreme Court judgement which declared that Khupe is the legitimate MDC-T acting president because the 2014 structures are no longer there. The majority of the people who were in the structures are now within the MDC Alliance structures.
Said Ncube: Unless they create fake structures they are incapable of implementing that Supreme Court judgement because those 2014 structures in 2018 they didn’t exist.
If they go to individuals to say we want to put you in structures those individuals will say we don’t want because they are members of the MDC Alliance, they are not interested in this Zanu PF project, it is an impossibility it can’t be done.
They can’t convene a meeting of the National Council with a quorum, they cannot hold a congress without a quorum.
Remember that congress will require two-thirds of congress members for you to have congress.
Where are they going to get it from? Mwonzora is however on record saying if people decided to boycott the congress, a decision will be made on their behalf by others.-CITE
Farai Dziva|Former MDC- T vice president Obert Chaurura Gutu has vowed to sabotage MDC president Nelson Chamisa’s 2023 Presidential bid.
In an interview with an online publucation, Gutu described his homeboy as a “young dictator.”
Gutu also boasted of blocking Chamisa’s path.
However, political observers believe Gutu’s remarks are loaded with emotional overtones.
According to NewsDay senior reporter, Blessed Mhlanga, Gutu’s latest remarks indicate that Khupe’s party does not want State power or to serve the people but to stop Chamisa from becoming the president of Zimbabwe.
“Gutu has just spilt the beans – they don’t want state power or to serve the people noooo. They just want to stop @nelsonchamisa.
The truth is only @nelsonchamisa and @edmnangagwa have a plan of getting into power.”
Farai Dziva|Former MDC- T vice president Obert Chaurura Gutu has vowed to sabotage MDC president Nelson Chamisa’s 2023 Presidential bid.
In an interview with an online publucation, Gutu described his homeboy as a “young dictator.”
Gutu also boasted of blocking Chamisa’s path.
However, political observers believe Gutu’s remarks are loaded with emotional overtones.
According to NewsDay senior reporter, Blessed Mhlanga, Gutu’s latest remarks indicate that Khupe’s party does not want State power or to serve the people but to stop Chamisa from becoming the president of Zimbabwe.
“Gutu has just spilt the beans – they don’t want state power or to serve the people noooo. They just want to stop @nelsonchamisa.
The truth is only @nelsonchamisa and @edmnangagwa have a plan of getting into power.”
The thoughts in this shot piece are my own and reflect my personal feelings towards this pandemic.
The Novel Coronavirus COVID-19 that has ravaged the world has brought the world to a standstill.
The virus was first detected in late 2019 in Wuhan, China.
The world has experienced virus outbreaks in the past such as the Ebola virus and the SARS virus.
What is scary about this latest virus is how contagious it is and how easy it is to pass from one person to another. We live in a globalised world where it is now easy to get to the four corners of the world very fast; the readily available air transport has meant that the virus can easily be transported from one country to another.
There is a huge debate about how to best prepare for any outbreak in the future and what we must do now to halt the spread of the virus.
A lot of conspiracy theories and fear mongering is now the order of the day.
I have a lot of respect for Prophet Makandiwa but his assertions are nothing but misleading.
The ideas mooted by Bill Gates for a Universal vaccine are spot on and here is why.
Our bodies have a natural defence system against any diseases that attack us; the soldiers that fight on our behalf are called antibodies.
Antibodies are specific to a particular type of infection so those who will have defeatd the Coronavirus will now have those antibodies should the disease attack again. A universal vaccine will be the best thing to ensure that we are all safe from any future attacks of this Coronaviruses. I do not support a chip but a proper vaccine like the polio vaccine that is injected to each individual whilst young. If we are injected then we can be assured that no one will pass it to another person again.
The vaccine must be generic so that if any other type of flu virus comes it will be stopped abruptly. The conspiracy theorists are somehow linking 5G technology and the Universal vaccine which is very ridiculous.
For the record I don’t support the fact that the vaccines must be tested in Africa first but we as Africans must also be vaccinated should an appropriate vaccine be found
A universal vaccine remains our best chance to defeat any other virus in the future.
The thoughts in this shot piece are my own and reflect my personal feelings towards this pandemic.
The Novel Coronavirus COVID-19 that has ravaged the world has brought the world to a standstill.
The virus was first detected in late 2019 in Wuhan, China.
The world has experienced virus outbreaks in the past such as the Ebola virus and the SARS virus.
What is scary about this latest virus is how contagious it is and how easy it is to pass from one person to another. We live in a globalised world where it is now easy to get to the four corners of the world very fast; the readily available air transport has meant that the virus can easily be transported from one country to another.
There is a huge debate about how to best prepare for any outbreak in the future and what we must do now to halt the spread of the virus.
A lot of conspiracy theories and fear mongering is now the order of the day.
I have a lot of respect for Prophet Makandiwa but his assertions are nothing but misleading.
The ideas mooted by Bill Gates for a Universal vaccine are spot on and here is why.
Our bodies have a natural defence system against any diseases that attack us; the soldiers that fight on our behalf are called antibodies.
Antibodies are specific to a particular type of infection so those who will have defeatd the Coronavirus will now have those antibodies should the disease attack again. A universal vaccine will be the best thing to ensure that we are all safe from any future attacks of this Coronaviruses. I do not support a chip but a proper vaccine like the polio vaccine that is injected to each individual whilst young. If we are injected then we can be assured that no one will pass it to another person again.
The vaccine must be generic so that if any other type of flu virus comes it will be stopped abruptly. The conspiracy theorists are somehow linking 5G technology and the Universal vaccine which is very ridiculous.
For the record I don’t support the fact that the vaccines must be tested in Africa first but we as Africans must also be vaccinated should an appropriate vaccine be found
A universal vaccine remains our best chance to defeat any other virus in the future.
Illegal money changers are slowly coming back to the city centre in Bulawayo while a majority are now operating from residential areas as the 21-day national lockdown entered Day 9 yesterday.
The money changers, in blatant defiance of the lockdown directive for people to stay at home, have started pushing street forex rates up again. Government last week allowed businesses to trade in forex and pegged the US dollar at 1:25.
At the time, street rates were as high as 1:43 for electronic transfers and due to absence of money changers on the street, they went as low as 32 but had risen to around 39 yesterday.
The lockdown which started last week on Monday, is meant to mitigate against the spread of Covid-19 which has infected more than 1,3 million people globally and killed over 78 000.
In Zimbabwe, 10 have been infected and one has died. The shutdown entails that citizens should only leave home for essential movements like seeking health services, buying food and medicines.
However, the illegal money changers who do not constitute essential services have started coming back to the streets.
Some of them are now operating in western suburbs as most citizens are not getting into the central business district.
Over the past few days, The Chronicle has observed that the number of illegal money changers is increasing by the day.
In the central business district, most of them were operating from cars in their main spots including areas surrounding Tredgold Buildings, popularly known as the World Bank for money changers. Some of them were operating along Leopold Takawira Avenue between Fort Street and Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Street while others were operating along Jason Moyo Street between 8th and 9th Avenues.
Another spot that had illegal money changers was along George Silundika Street between 10th and 11th Avenues.
At Entumbane and Nkulumane the illegal money changers are taking advantage of increased traffic of people visiting the suburban shopping malls to buy groceries among other things. They are said to be also targeting diaspora remittances after the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe instructed international money transfer agencies to start operating from today.
An illegal money changer who spoke on condition of anonymity said only a few money changers were operating.
“This is our way of survival. We have no option but to return to the streets. How come some people are going out to buy groceries. If we do not do this we will starve with our families,” said the illegal currency dealer.
Another one said they were getting their float from Harare but only trusted traders were being given the money as some have come up with “stories” during the 21-day lockdown period.
Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Abednico Ncube said police officers also observed that the money changers were coming back to the streets, defying Government lockdown measures.
“As we were doing our lockdown campaigns in the central business district, we observed that Osiphatheleni were coming back to the streets. We ordered those who were in their cars to leave town and comply with Government’s directive on lockdown. We will continue conducting raids on them,” said Insp Ncube.
“We have realised that they are taking advantage of the fact that some members of the public would be coming into town for essential services. These illegal money changers also want to take advantage of those coming into town.” -State Media/Chronicle
Chaotic scenes were witnessed at the market place in Bulawayo yesterday as it was teeming with people, mostly vendors who jostled to buy fresh produce.
It took police and soldiers to maintain law and order as people wrestled each other during the commotion, which was witnessed by a Chronicle news crew.
Long winding queues were the order of the day as people from all walks of life thronged various fruit and vegetable shops. In some shops, elderly persons could be seen pleading with shop employees to get first preference.
Anti-riot police and soldiers kept a close eye as they continually monitored the potentially volatile situation characterised by an exchange of harsh words, particularly from vendors who accused each other of attempting to jump queues during the melee.
Market places had been closed when the lockdown came into effect last week on Monday but reopened following a directive by President Mnangagwa that farmers should bring their produce to the markets during the lockdown period without hindrance, so as to feed the nation.
When a Chronicle news crew visited selected fruit and vegetable suppliers, security personnel comprising ZRP and ZNA members were having a torrid time as they tried to control long winding queues punctuated by chaotic scenes as people failed to maintain social distancing.
People who spoke to Chronicle were generally excited following the decision by Government to reopen the market place.
“The reopening of the market is good news for us considering that unscrupulous traders were capitalising on the situation to charge exorbitant prices for basic commodities like tomatoes and vegetables,” said Ms Nomatter Ndlovu.
A Chronicle news crew observed that although shop attendants were hand sanitising customers at the entrance, hygienic standards were not being maintained as evidenced by rotten tomatoes, vegetables and banana peels strewn all over the area.
“I came early in the morning and joined the queue to buy tomatoes for resale. There was commotion as everyone jostled to buy. Police and soldiers really assisted in maintaining order although the principle of social distancing isn’t practicable,” said Zaniah Sibanda of Pumula East.
Another resident, Mr Ronald Sibanda said the elderly were not getting preferential treatment in terms of queues.
“I am here intending to buy ginger and garlic, which I use for health purposes, but now am forced to queue despite my old age and with the issue of Corona virus, we are more susceptible, especially taking into consideration that the issue of social distancing is not being practised in such a public place,” he said.
A vendor, Ms Dorcas Rwodzi said there was a need for shop owners to maintain hygienic standards in light of Covid-19.
A shop attendant at Fresh Route Fruit and Vegetables, who declined to be named said they are allowing a limited number of customers at a given time.
“Customers are getting inside the shops in small numbers as we’re trying to limit the numbers and maintaining social distancing as part of measures to curb the spread of Covid-19,” he said
The Chronicle news crew also visited Willsgrove, Sizani Fruit and Vegetables and Lee Market and noticed that there were queues with people failing to adhere to the principle of social distancing.
In Gwanda and Gweru, market places were still closed yesterday. In Victoria Falls, vegetable vendors were back to their vending stalls.
The municipality disinfected the three vegetable markets namely Mkhosana Shopping Centre, Old Market and Chinotimba yesterday morning before vendors could occupy them.
A snap survey around the markets showed that some vendors had started selling outside the stalls.
Some tippy taps, which are hand washing devices made up of a water container suspended on a horizontal pole and tied to a pedal using a string which when tipped by foot, releases water for one to wash hands, had been set up at the markets’ entry points.
Hwange District Medical Officer Dr Fungai Mvura said a limited number of vendors will be allowed to maintain the recommended social distancing.
“Yes we met with the residents association and the municipality was tasked to sanitise the stalls while vendors themselves must have sanitisers at any given time. The vendors are not supposed to go to the market at once but will give each other chances by way of rotating so that the stalls are not congested,” said Dr Mvura.
Combined Victoria Falls Residents Association (Vifacora) chairman Mr Morgen Gazza Dube urged the informal traders to abide by health guidelines.
“While essential service providers like shops remained open, vegetable markets are no exception as they provide similar services which are even more affordable to the ordinary citizens.
“We have engaged authorities and I therefore urge vegetable vendors to return to their stalls. However, we are all reminded to guard against the spread of Covid-19 and sell only on designated vegetable markets, provide sanitary material and maintain social distancing between stalls and customers,” he said. Chronicle/state media
But I think when people watch this video 5 years from hence, they will appreciate that I was in the right. History will absolve me.- @DMwonzora – credit @TechMagTVpic.twitter.com/dStDccGoOC
Farai Dziva|Controversial Masvingo based clergyman, Isaac Makomichi has irked sex workers in and around the city of Masvingo after introducing what he calls “the anointed love portion herb.”
Makomichi is distributing the anointed love portion herb to women and girls across the country.
Sex workers who spoke to ZimEye.com on Monday accused the young preacher of attempting to “destroy their flourishing business.”
“Why is that the so called love portion herb is distributed to women only? Does it mean men do not want to bring back their lovers as well?
This is a direct violation of our personal and constitutional rights.It is clear that he( Makomichi) is targeting our work as sex workers,” declared one lady who identified herself as Tina.
Makomichi claims the love portion herb has the power to bring back lost lovers.
He also claims women are mainly using it as it will stop their husbands from cheating.Girls who use the love portion herb will also “win instant marriages”- according to Makomichi.
“I am distributing the love portion herb to disgruntled women and girls for free.
“One has to go to a mango tree, kneel under it and pray.
As one prays one mentions the name of the person she loves. After that one picks up a handful of soil under one’s shadow.
One then mixes the soil with water and sugar.One can then takes a bath.
After taking a bath one drinks the anointed oil.After that if you are a girl, everyone who sees you will be attracted to you.
Women who want the love portion herb can contact me on: 0777469342,” said Makomichi.
A woman who spoke to ZimEye.com on Sunday said:
“Cheating men are in trouble because of the love portion herb. I am already using the love portion herb and it is just magnificent.”
Farai Dziva|Controversial Masvingo based clergyman, Isaac Makomichi has irked sex workers in and around the city of Masvingo after introducing what he calls “the anointed love portion herb.”
Makomichi is distributing the anointed love portion herb to women and girls across the country.
Sex workers who spoke to ZimEye.com on Monday accused the young preacher of attempting to “destroy their flourishing business.”
“Why is that the so called love portion herb is distributed to women only? Does it mean men do not want to bring back their lovers as well?
This is a direct violation of our personal and constitutional rights.It is clear that he( Makomichi) is targeting our work as sex workers,” declared one lady who identified herself as Tina.
Makomichi claims the love portion herb has the power to bring back lost lovers.
He also claims women are mainly using it as it will stop their husbands from cheating.Girls who use the love portion herb will also “win instant marriages”- according to Makomichi.
“I am distributing the love portion herb to disgruntled women and girls for free.
“One has to go to a mango tree, kneel under it and pray.
As one prays one mentions the name of the person she loves. After that one picks up a handful of soil under one’s shadow.
One then mixes the soil with water and sugar.One can then takes a bath.
After taking a bath one drinks the anointed oil.After that if you are a girl, everyone who sees you will be attracted to you.
Women who want the love portion herb can contact me on: 0777469342,” said Makomichi.
A woman who spoke to ZimEye.com on Sunday said:
“Cheating men are in trouble because of the love portion herb. I am already using the love portion herb and it is just magnificent.”
POLICE have arrested more than 2 100 people for violating lockdown regulations while three officers have appeared in court for allegedly assaulting residents in Victoria Falls with chains and batons, accusing them of flouting shutdown requirements.
The country is under a 21-day lockdown which started last week on Monday to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
The World Health Organisation has said the global pandemic has infected more than 1,2 million people worldwide with more than 70 000 of them succumbing to the deadly virus.
Zimbabwe has tested 320 for the virus and nine tested positive while one patient has died.
Under the country’s lockdown measures, all citizens are expected to stay at home, except for essential movements to seek health services, buy food, medicines, other essentials and critical services.
The military has been roped in to complement the police to ensure that the public strictly abides to lockdown regulations that include maintaining social distances and self-isolating.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the defiance has seen 2 191 people being arrested for lockdown violations since President Mnangagwa issued the stay-at-home order.
“The number includes some people who were violating the Liquor Act, operating businesses that are not exempted, illegally transporting members of the public without being cleared, loitering without valid reasons and various crimes under the Miscellaneous Act,” said Asst Comm Nyathi., “What is apparent is that the public is taking for granted the messages that are being sent to prevent the spread of Covid-19. There are those who think that because the virus has not seriously impacted on the country they will not be affected.
They are not observing social distancing and self-isolation as prescribed to prevent the spread of the virus.
We encourage them to heed the Government’s measures to prevent the spread of the virus.”
Asst Comm Nyathi said police have scaled up awareness campaigns to sensitise the public to adhere to Government’s measures.
“While we are enforcing the law by arresting those violating regulations, we are also involved in social responsibility programmes where we educate the public about the need to observe the coronavirus prevention measures.
We have also partnered with local authorities that are involved in fumigation of public places.
While local authorities provide fumigation materials we provide vehicles used to implement the actual process,” said Asst Comm Nyathi.
Meanwhile, three policemen who allegedly assaulted residents with chains and batons in Victoria Falls accusing them of defying the Government order to stay indoors have been charged with assault.
Emmanuel Anesu Buzhiwa (30) of Mkhosana and Givemore Masokose (26) residing at ZRP Victoria Falls Camp were not asked to each plead to five counts of assault before Victoria Falls resident magistrate Ms Lindiwe Maphosa yesterday.
Jimson Zano (29) of Aerodrome appeared separately before the same court for two counts of assault following incidents where the three constables, allegedly beat up residents in Mkhosana and Chinotimba suburbs last Friday for being outdoors.- State media
POLICE have arrested more than 2 100 people for violating lockdown regulations while three officers have appeared in court for allegedly assaulting residents in Victoria Falls with chains and batons, accusing them of flouting shutdown requirements.
The country is under a 21-day lockdown which started last week on Monday to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
The World Health Organisation has said the global pandemic has infected more than 1,2 million people worldwide with more than 70 000 of them succumbing to the deadly virus.
Zimbabwe has tested 320 for the virus and nine tested positive while one patient has died.
Under the country’s lockdown measures, all citizens are expected to stay at home, except for essential movements to seek health services, buy food, medicines, other essentials and critical services.
The military has been roped in to complement the police to ensure that the public strictly abides to lockdown regulations that include maintaining social distances and self-isolating.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the defiance has seen 2 191 people being arrested for lockdown violations since President Mnangagwa issued the stay-at-home order.
“The number includes some people who were violating the Liquor Act, operating businesses that are not exempted, illegally transporting members of the public without being cleared, loitering without valid reasons and various crimes under the Miscellaneous Act,” said Asst Comm Nyathi., “What is apparent is that the public is taking for granted the messages that are being sent to prevent the spread of Covid-19. There are those who think that because the virus has not seriously impacted on the country they will not be affected.
They are not observing social distancing and self-isolation as prescribed to prevent the spread of the virus.
We encourage them to heed the Government’s measures to prevent the spread of the virus.”
Asst Comm Nyathi said police have scaled up awareness campaigns to sensitise the public to adhere to Government’s measures.
“While we are enforcing the law by arresting those violating regulations, we are also involved in social responsibility programmes where we educate the public about the need to observe the coronavirus prevention measures.
We have also partnered with local authorities that are involved in fumigation of public places.
While local authorities provide fumigation materials we provide vehicles used to implement the actual process,” said Asst Comm Nyathi.
Meanwhile, three policemen who allegedly assaulted residents with chains and batons in Victoria Falls accusing them of defying the Government order to stay indoors have been charged with assault.
Emmanuel Anesu Buzhiwa (30) of Mkhosana and Givemore Masokose (26) residing at ZRP Victoria Falls Camp were not asked to each plead to five counts of assault before Victoria Falls resident magistrate Ms Lindiwe Maphosa yesterday.
Jimson Zano (29) of Aerodrome appeared separately before the same court for two counts of assault following incidents where the three constables, allegedly beat up residents in Mkhosana and Chinotimba suburbs last Friday for being outdoors.- State media
By Jane Mlambo| Zimbabwe’s fight against Coronavirus is in shambles amid unconfirmed reports that the country has been operating with on only 500 test kits with the 20 000 from Alibaba Foundation and Jack Ma not usable due to some missing reagents.
A classified document circulating on social media shows that Zimbabwe only received 500 and 20 000 tests kits from the World Health Organisation and Alibaba Foundation respectively while consignments donated by Ecobank, Global Fund and HDF-UNICEF still to be delivered.
Government has not procured any test kits on its own but is relying on donations something that explains why the number of tested persons remain very low as compared to other countries.
Government is also running one testing centre which is situated by Harare Central hospital where samples collected all over the country are brought for testing which takes about five hours to produce results against global standard kits that only require 15 minutes.
Below is the classified document showing the number of test kits available and those waiting delivery.
By Jane Mlambo| President Emmerson Mnangagwa has written to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson appreciating the kind gesture his government has extended to Zimbabwe towards the fight against COVID-19 as well as wishing him a speedy recovery.
In his letter, Mnangagwa acknowledged Johnson’s timely assistance to Zimbabwe in the form of £35.4 million towards procurement of Personal Protective Equipment to be used in fighting Covid-19.
“On behalf of my government and the people of Zimbabwe and indeed on my own behalf, I extend to you our heartfelt wishes to you for a speedy recovery,” said Mnangagwa.
He added that he had put in place measures to ensure the British donation is not abused but put to good use.
By Jane Mlambo| Zimbabwe has recorded one more COVID-19 confirmed case to take the total number of infected persons to 11 with the last confirmed person reported to have succumbed to the ailment.
According to Ministry of Health and Child Care, the 11th case is a 79 year-old Male from Bulawayo who passed away of Saturday 4 April 2020.
“The eleventh case was a 79 year old Male resident of Bulawayo who initially presented to a General Practitioner on the 23rd of March 202o with a history of cough sore throat and fever. When he did not improve on oral antibiotic treatment, he presented to a local hospital on Thursday 2 April 2020, where he was admitted,” noted the ministry of health.
The government said the deceased indicated that he has at some point visited a resort town in Hwange sometime in March.
By A Correspondent- Zimbabwe has recorded its second COVID-19 death following the death of a 79-year old Bulawayo man. The man died on Saturday, 4 April.
At the time of his death, however, his test COVID-19 status was yet to be known. His test results came out today, 7 April 2020, confirming he was positive.
He was the 11th confirmed COVID-19 patient in Zimbabwe.
In its coronavirus (COVID-19) update on 7 April 2020, the Ministry of Health and Child Care revealed the details.
The statement by the Health Ministry reads:
Ministry of Health and Child Care CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) UPDATE: 07 APRIL 2020
The Ministry would like to report that today, the National Microbiology Reference Laboratory (NMRL) tested 21 samples. One of these, tested positive for COVID-19 bringing to eleven the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases reported to date.
However, this eleventh case passed away in hospital on Saturday 4th April 2020.
The eleventh case was a 79-year-old-male resident of Bulawayo who initially presented to a General Practitioner on the 23rd of March 2020 with a history of cough, sore throat and fever.
When he did not improve on oral antibiotic treatment, he presented to a local hospital on Thursday 2 April 2020, where he was admitted.
At the time of admission, he had presented with cough, difficulty in breathing, sore throat, and fever but no reported history of travel outside Zimbabwe.
He, however, indicated that he had been to a tourist resort in Hwange from the 14th of March 2020. He was therefore admitted for clinical management as a case of bacterial Pneumonia with underlying comorbidity.
His condition deteriorated during the evening of the day of admission and he was transferred to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for critical care and management in isolation under a Specialist Physician.
The local COVID-19 Rapid Response Team was called in and samples were collected and sent to the NMRL for COVID-19 testing.
Whilst waiting for the COVID-I9 test results, the patient continued to receive intravenous antibiotics and additionally, he received medical treatment as a clinical case of COVID-19.
On Saturday the 4th of April, his condition continued to deteriorate despite management in ICU until he deceased.
Contact tracing for the above case is in progress and the Ministry continues to be on HIGH alert to the COVID-I9 pandemic.
Meanwhile, the Ministry would like to remind the nation that, the most effective ways to protect yourself and others against COVID-I9 are to practice good personal hygiene and social distancing.
For assistance, please call the COVID-I9 toll free hotline number. 2019
The Air Force of Zimbabwe says it is ready to assist with the transportation and distribution of food and medical supplies in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking on the sidelines of a presentation on the strategic role of air power as a force multiplier at the Zimbabwe Defence University this Tuesday, Commander Air Force of Zimbabwe, Air Marshal Elson Moyo pledged his organisation’s commitment to help fight against the deadly COVID-19.
“We are ready to assist the nation in case of any eventualities in the distribution of food and medical supplies to the need. We can provide air transport when asked to do so.”
Air Marshal Moyo also said the AFZ has embarked on rigorous air craft recovery programme to bring most of its grounded platforms back online using its qualified personnel.
“We are in the process of bringing back our grounded equipment back on line so that we can react quickly in times of need” The AFZ has been responsive to various crises in the country, including spearheading rescue operations during floods.
Mthuli Ncube with the Managing Director of the IMF, Ms Christalina Georgieva.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned that Zimbabwe needs urgent aid as the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic exacerbates the effects of a food shortage following the worst drought in nearly four decades.
The latest Covid-19 coronavirus coverage The Southern African nation needs hundreds of millions of dollars in foreign aid in coming months to fend off a humanitarian crisis that’s likely to leave more than half of the population hungry, the Washington-based institution said.
“The outbreak has greatly amplified uncertainty and downside risks around the outlook,” the IMF said in an Article IV report, released on Friday. To date, Zimbabwe has nine confirmed infections and, like much of the region, the government has imposed a lockdown to halt the spread of the virus.
An economic crisis marked by a dire shortage of foreign currency and power supply, coupled with the drought has increased the number of poor people in what was once one of Africa’s most industrialised countries. The fund estimates that the economy contracted 8.3% in 2019. The report was largely compiled before the virus reached Zimbabwe.
“Absent a scaling-up of donor support, the risks of a deep humanitarian crisis are high,” the IMF said. Only half of the humanitarian aid requested by the UN to help about eight-million people has been pledged, it said.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who promised far-reaching political and economic reforms after replacing Robert Mugabe in 2017, hasn’t moved fast enough to strengthen the rule of law, fight corruption and improve the business climate, the IMF said.
Without additional donor support in the first half of 2020, pressure will increase on the central bank to revert to printing money, which would in turn result in even higher inflation and loss of confidence in the new currency, the IMF said. Zimbabwe’s annual inflation rate is currently 540%.
Zimbabwe is also struggling to clear $16.9bn in arrears, while external public debt is expected to jump more than 10 percentage points in just four years to 52% of GDP in 2020, according to the IMF.
Individuals/Families who rely on remittances where caught between a rock and a hard place when it was announced that money transfer agents would not be exempt from lockdown.
Whilst this decision was made to safeguard the health of the general public, it meant that a significant number of Zimbabweans who rely on remittances were cut off from their only source of funds at a time they need to stock up on food and other vital resources.
RBZ has decided to loosen its grip on money transfer agents like Western Union and other remittance services, allowing them to reopen from the 8th of April.
Money Transfer Agents (MTAs) branches operating in retail outlets shall, with effect from Wednesday the 8th of April 2020, operate daily within the timelines prescribed for opening of retail outlets or shops; and Money Transfer Agents owned by banks and those with own banking halls and branches outside banks and retail outlets or shops, shall open for business three times a week, that is on Tuesday to Thursday between 0900 hours to 1500 hours with effect from 8 April Whilst the RBZ has urged MTAs to observe social distancing guidelines and to spread remittance access points in order to try combat spread of Coronavirus, this directive is indicative of one thing. A number of African governments simply cannot enforce a full lockdown because of the social context of Africa.
With those accessing remittances now allowed to go and access their money because they need it to survive, next informal workers who live from hand to mouth can also argue (rightfully so) that they’ll need to work on some days in order to make the bear minimum they need to survive and the chain goes on and on.
If anything, this should be a wake-up call to African governments to ensure that in future their countries can stand on their own to avoid endangering citizens lives because of a failure to provide an economy that can
But I think when people watch this video 5 years from hence, they will appreciate that I was in the right. History will absolve me.- @DMwonzora – credit @TechMagTVpic.twitter.com/dStDccGoOC
Government has quarantined 287 people including 15 foreign nationals at various places across the country as a precautionary measure against the spread of the Covid-19 diseases.
The 287 include seven locals who returned from the US, 265 who were in Botswana and 15 suspected Ethiopian nationals.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Mr Nick Mangwana confirmed the development on his twitter handle.
“Government takes the risk of potential imported transmission seriously. We have 7 returnees who arrived from the US including 6 cruise ship workers who are in compulsory quarantine at a lodge in Harare. Those from Botswana are at Plumtree High and ZIPAM will be used for new arrivals,” Mr Mangwana said.
Speaking in an interview, Mr Mangwana said the people would be tested for the diseases and quarantined for 21 days.
“The 265 people that returned from Botswana are quarantined at Plumtree High School and St Christopher Primary School, the 15 suspected Ethiopian nationals that were intercepted in Gwanda are at Guyu Training Centre awaiting verification from the Ethiopian Embassy on their citizenship status. There is a possibility that some of them could be from Eritrea or Somalia,” he said.
Mr Mangwana added that the people were being looked after by the Department of Social Welfare and thanked the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority and Silo Foods Industries for providing blankets and food for the quarantined people.
He said a number of centres, including facilities at the Zimbabwe Institute of Public Administration and Management in Darwendale would be opened to cater for returning residents while they are in quarantine.
“We can’t stop Zimbabweans from coming home. Our constitution does not permit. But we can protect others by compulsorily quarantining them for 21 days before allowing them to mingle,” he said.
Apart from quarantining those coming from abroad, Government has also moved hundreds of homeless people in Harare to various centres on the outskirts of the city as part of measures to contain the spread of the Covid 19 disease.
The people are being accommodated in Mt Hampden, Ruwa Rehabilitation Centre and Jamaica Inn while plans are afoot to open more such centres across the country to to cater for homeless people.
A man’s been arrested in the Western Cape for posting a video claiming that coronavirus test kits were contaminated.
In the video posted on Facebook, he urged people to refuse testing.
He gave no evidence to support his claims.
The 55-year-old was taken into custody on Monday.
Authorities have repeatedly warned the public against disseminating fake news about the COVID-19 pandemic because it could spark needless panic.
He has been charged in terms of the Disaster Management Act.
Police Minister Bheki Cele said that eight people had been arrested for disseminating false information about the COVID-19 pandemic in the country.
The minister was in Secunda on Tuesday morning where he’s evaluating the implementation of the lockdown regulations.
Authorities have repeatedly warned the public against disseminating fake news about the pandemic because it could spark needless panic.
Those found guilty of the crime could be charged in terms of the Disaster Management Act.
Cele said that South Africans should put their differences aside to tackle the virus.
“These are the times that must we all work together and walk in unison. These are the times that we must put aside any form of enmity. We have an enemy that has the capability of destroying and killing us together.”
The number of coronavirus, or SARS-CoV-2, cases in South Africa increased to 1,749, with 13 reported deaths, health minister Zweli Mkhize confirmed on Tuesday afternoon.
This reflects an increase of 63 from Monday, after an increase of 31 on Sunday.
Concerns have been raised over the low levels of testing which has been completed in South Africa, which thus far have predominantly been completed by private laboratories.
Mkhize has bluntly warned against celebrating a relatively low apparent increases in the number of known cases of the novel coronavirus until widespread screening and testing is online.
The public health sector has promised to massively scale up its testing from this week, including launching a nation wide community testing drives for “hotspots”.
Deputy chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet who is also Presidential spokesperson, Mr George Charamba, dismissed as fake news a statement attributed to President Mnangagwa purporting to direct property owners on rentals.
Mr Charamba said the statement has nothing to do with the President or his Office, and actually passes for criminal conduct.
The fake statement was notifying landlords and land ladies not to collect rent from any Zimbabwean for a period of three months from the day of the 21-day lockdown.
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa joined other world leaders in wishing UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson a speedy recovery after the British leader was diagnosed with the coronavirus.
PM Johnson (55) tested positive for Covid-19 on Friday, just hours after participating in a G20 teleconference call with world leaders on how to confront the global pandemic, which has so far claimed more than 74 000 lives and infected more than 1,3 million.
In his official Twitter Page, President Mnangagwa said his Government stood in solidarity with the British people during this period.
“On behalf of the people of Zimbabwe, I wish Prime Minister @BorisJohnson a speedy recovery and return to good health. We stand in solidarity with him and the British people during these challenging times,” he said.
Mr Johnson was admitted to St Thomas’ Hospital in London on Sunday evening.
The Queen has been kept informed about Mr Johnson’s health by No 10, according to Buckingham Palace.
According to British media reports, the prime minister was given oxygen late on Monday afternoon, before being taken to intensive care. He has not been put on a ventilator.
A No 10 statement read: “The prime minister has been under the care of doctors at St Thomas’ Hospital, in London, after being admitted with persistent symptoms of coronavirus.
The British leader had said he had developed mild symptoms and would continue working from home in self-isolation. He has since been moved to intensive care in hospital after his coronavirus symptoms “worsened”.
His infection means he will need to stay apart from new fiancée Carrie Symonds who is pregnant and at a higher risk.
US President Donald Trump said Americans “are all praying for his recovery.”
He described Mr Johnson as “a very good friend of mine and a friend to our nation” who is “strong” and “doesn’t give up.”
Mr Johnson was initially taken to hospital for routine tests after testing positive for coronavirus 10 days ago. His symptoms included a high temperature and a cough.
Earlier on Monday, he tweeted that he was in “good spirits.”
Scotland’s First Minister Ms Nicola Sturgeon said she was “sending Mr Johnson every good wish”, while Northern Ireland’s First Minister Ms Arlene Foster added she was “praying for a full and speedy recovery”.
Wales’ First Minister Mr Mark Drakeford called it “concerning news”.
Mr Johnson’s predecessor, Mrs Theresa May, and former Labour leader Mr Jeremy Corbyn both said their thoughts were with him.
Mrs May noted that the “horrific virus does not discriminate.”
The Taoiseach (Irish Prime Minister) Mr Leo Varadkar wished Mr Johnson “a rapid return to health,” and French President Mr Emmanuel Macron said he hoped he “overcomes this ordeal quickly.”
European Commission President Ms Ursula von der Leyen also wished him a “speedy and full recovery.”
For Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, the news “deepens our compassion for all who are seriously ill” and those looking after them.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock, who also tested positive for the virus and spent time in self-isolation, offered “all possible best wishes to Boris Johnson and his loved ones.”
Farai Dziva|Veteran journalist and former Zimbabwe Union of Journalists(ZUJ) president, Matthew Takaona has been arrested by overzealous police details in Masvingo.
Takaona was arrested and detained on Tuesday as he was assessing the implications of a government directive to reopen the popular Chitima Vegetable Market in Masvingo.
“Matthew Takaona, former president of the Zimbabwe Union of Journalists (ZUJ), currently working as a consultant with The Mirror, was arrested and detained by police in Masvingo today as he was assessing the effects of a Government order to reopen vegetable markets in the midst of the ravaging COVID-19,” The Mirror reported.
Zimbabwe, under your wise counsel, began its 21-day COVID-19 lockdown journey on March 30 as efforts by the country to fend off the deadly pandemic got underway countrywide.
The initial – almost watertight – COVID-19 guidelines have been abandoned and replaced with a lenient regime which makes it look like the lockdown has now been lifted.
One of the most dangerous and dirtiest destinations in Zimbabwe, Mbare Musika, has been declared open to trade.
Lockdown: Mbare Musika resumes operations
The result, Mr President, has been the movement of both legitimate goods and contraband in to one of the oldest vegetables markets in Zimbabwe – literally from all over the country.
I am, however, heartened Mr President, after learning that you recently toured several high density suburbs of Harare on a familiarisation tour.
I now humbly challenge you, Your Excellency, to do the same with Mbare Musika and witness first hand the chaotic scenes obtaining there.
In my opinion, Mr President, Mbare Musika is now in a worse status than it was previously, making it just what the devil would order as a COVID-19 compliant facility.
Both the human and traffic congestion at Mbare Musika, Your Excellency, comparatively makes scenarios in apartheid South Africa’s Soweto township look like child’s play.
Conditions at Mbare Musika now, Mr President, are just the sort of under which COVID-19 would thrive under.
Mbare Musika is now the place to be for makoronyera (vegetables middlemen), illegal foreign currency dealers, mishikashika (illegal taxis), kombis, among others.
Your Excellency, in my humble submission, opening Mbare Musika is the last thing we need as a country at this juncture.
The entire world is now treating us like one very big joke, Sir!
Farmers from various provinces thronged Mbare market today to sell their produce.
The reopening of markets follows a directive by President Mnangagwa last week that farmers should bring their produce to the markets during the lock down period without hindrance, so as to feed the nation. It was a hive of activity at Mbare musika this morning with farmers trading their produce to the public.
However, farmers bemoaned poor business saying most of their customers could not come to the market due to the lock down directive.
“We thank the President for allowing us to bring our produce to markets. We sell perishable products and the lock down had affected us.
“However business is low today. Our customers are locked in their homes. We hope the situation will improve as days go by,” said Edward Kahana a farmer from Macheke who had brought in tomatoes to the market.
The Supreme Court ruled that the MDC-T must revert to its 2014 congress structures.
If that is to be the case then Morgen Komichi is wrongly positioning himself as the chairman of the party according to the ruling. Lovemore Moyo, not Morgan Komichi, was the then Chairperson of the MDC-T, and only resigned in 2018.
So if the Court ordered the MDC-T to return to its 2014 structures, why does Morgan Komichi think he is the Chairman. And why does Advocate Douglas Mwonzora concur with that fraudulent claim by Komichi. Or was it the Court which mentioned Morgan Komichi by name in its judgement?
Lovemore Moyo is still alive, and can so take over the chairman position and silence Komichi.
An African media watchdog charged Monday that Zimbabwean police had assaulted a journalist and forced him to delete pictures of them enforcing a Covid-19 lockdown.
Freelance journalist Panashe Makufa “was beaten up by members of the Zimbabwe Republic Police” in Harare’s Kuwadzana township “while undertaking his professional duties,” the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zimbabwe office said.
Makufa told the media rights watchdog he was taking pictures Sunday of police as they dispersed people to enforce a stay-at-home order.
“Four police officers ordered Makufa to get into their truck where he was assaulted by two officers and forced to delete his pictures before he was dropped off,” MISA said in a statement.
‘No formal report’
Police spokesperson Paul Nyathi said they had received no formal report about the incident.
“We don’t condone the assault of people going about the legitimate work but we have had incidents of people who commit offences and then say they were arrested while performing their duties,” he told AFP.
“We are appealing to the journalist Makufa to come and make a formal report if indeed such an incident happened,” he said.
Makufa’s assault came after the arrest last week of two other journalists in separate incidents.
Police briefly detained freelance reporter Kudzanai Musengi in the central city of Gweru accusing him of working with an expired accreditation card, according to MISA.
In another case, the police arrested Voice of America (VOA) correspondent Nunurai Jena and charged him with disorderly conduct after he took pictures of police at a roadblock, the media watchdog said.
He appeared before a magistrate’s court and was released on bail.
Zimbabwe began a three-week total lockdown a week ago.
The southern African country says it has so far recorded nine Covid-19 cases, including one fatality.
Russia have given the thumbs up to the election of the Zimbabwean duo of Kirsty Coventry and Anna Mguni to the World Anti-Doping Agency standing committees.
Coventry, who is also the Minister of Youth, Arts, Sport and Recreation, was last week unveiled as a member of the WADA Athlete Committee while veteran administrator and Zimbabwe Olympic Committee chief executive Mguni will serve in the Education Committee.
“The Embassy welcomes the election of the Minister of Youth, Sports, Arts and Recreation of the Republic of Zimbabwe, an outstanding athlete, multiple winner and runner-up of Olympic Games Hon. Kirsty Coventry to the Athletes Committee of the World Anti-Doping Agency,” the Embassy said in a tweet this morning.
“The Embassy of the Russian Federation in the Republic of Zimbabwe also welcomes the election of the Chief Executive Officer of Zimbabwe Olympic Committee Mrs. Anna Mguni to WADA Education Committee.”
The appointments come as a huge vote of confidence in Zimbabwe’s sports administrators. Coventry is also an International Olympic Committee Executive Board Member and an IOC Athlete Commission Chairperson. She will be part of a 12-member WADA Athlete Committee led by three-time Olympian Ben Sandford of New Zealand.
The Education Committee, where Mguni is now a member, provides expert advice, recommendations and guidance to organisation’s management with respect to short-term education strategies and activities, and longer-term approaches to WADA’s education programs. The Committee is also involved in the selection process of WADA-funded social science research projects.
Deputy Minister of Sports Tino Machakaire is optimistic the country will host the World Cup qualifiers as efforts to renovate local stadiums remain high.
Barbourfields and the National Sports Stadium failed a preliminary inspection carried last month by CAF and Zimbabwe has until June 15 to finish the refurbishment before the second inspection.
Speaking to the Daily News, Machakaire said: “I’m very much confident that we will be ready when CAF return for the second inspection in June. It’s just that much of our progress was hindered by coronavirus which affected the whole world, otherwise, we could have covered a lot of ground.
“We will see how things progress in the following weeks. As soon as things normalise, we will put our efforts together to make sure the stadiums meet the minimum requirements. For now, it’s important to prioritise the health of everyone from the virus.”
Zimbabwe were supposed to host the March Afcon qualifiers on foreign soil, and fortunately, the games were suspended due to coronavirus.- Soccer 24
Ngezi Platnum Stars have announced their squad for 2020 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season.
The 29-man selection include the bulk of players that featured prominently for the team in the last campaign. These include Frank Mukarati, Keith Murera, Kelvin Bulaji, Micheal Charamba, Tichaona Mabvura, Bruno Mtigo and James Nguluve.
Notable new faces in squad are Devon Chafa, Denver Mukamba who joined the side from Chapungu and former Maritzburg United striker Junior Zindoga.
Here is the squad:
Goalkeepers: Nelson Chadya, Issah Ali, Chang Marion.
Defenders: Munashe Katondo, Kudzai Chigwida, Quadir Amini, Frank Mukarati, Keith Murera, Polite Moyo, Ariel Makopa, Wayne Makuwa, Kelvin Bulaji.
Farai Dziva|UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin believes the Reds deserve to be awarded the title if the season is cancelled.
League action is currently suspended in England due to the coronavirus outbreak and Jurgen Klopp’s side is holding a 25-point lead over second-placed Manchester City on the EPL table. The Reds need just two more wins to secure the championship.
Speaking to EkipaSN, a sports newspaper in his native Slovenia, Ceferin said: “I can’t see a way Liverpool could be left without a title.
“Theoretically it’s not all over, but practically Liverpool are on the verge of it.
“If it could not be played, it would still be necessary to announce the results in some way and then the champions should be determined.
“And of course, again I do not see a scenario in which that would not be Liverpool. I understand that fans will be disappointed if it happens in an empty stadium or even at a table, but I believe they will win the title in one way or another.”
Remittances are of great importance to the Zimbabwean economy. According to the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ), the country receives almost $1 billion in remittances each year.
Pardon Mujakachi – WorldRemit, Regional Head for Sub Sahara Africa.
This money flows directly into the local economy, accounting for 11% of the country’s GDP. WorldRemit data shows that this money helps Zimbabweans to pay for food, school fees and medical bills, whilst giving support in times of emergency. WorldRemit, the market-leading money transfer provider, has revealed that Zimbabwe was one of the top 5 recipient countries in Africa for remittances in 2019, and continues to grow rapidly.
With Zimbabwe on a mandatory lockdown since March 30th and all banks closed, cash pick-up services have been greatly impacted leaving many Zimbabweans who are dependent on remittances for survival in a difficult position.
The presidential directive on money transfer services announced on 6th April, brought a huge relief to millions of households who depend on the support from their loved ones abroad. We spoke to Pardon Mujakachi, Country Director, Zimbabwe at WorldRemit, who answered the most commonly asked questions. Mr. Mujakachi spoke to us about how the London-headquartered, leading online money transfer company is supporting its customers and explained the options available to both senders and receivers.
WorldRemit allows senders in 50 countries to instantly send money via the app or online to receivers in 150 countries, including Zimbabwe and other countries across Africa. Your sender can access WorldRemit online on www.worldremit.com or by downloading the app on an iOS or Android device.
Can my friends and family still send money to me during the pandemic?
Yes! These are challenging times for everyone around the world, but I’d like to reassure you that we continue to provide a 24/7 global money transfer service for our customers.
Can I still collect cash during the Covid-19 pandemic?
Great news! The Government of Zimbabwe has just announced that cash pick up services will resume on Wednesday April 8th. Our partners in Zimbabwe will be open for cash pick up from Tuesday through to Thursday every week. Please continue to check our website on cash pick-up locations & availability.
Don’t forget, we’ve also created other great ways for you to send money which include to bank accounts, mobile money and airtime in Zimbabwe. Thank you for your patience and for sending money with WorldRemit!
Is this the case elsewhere, considering it’s a global pandemic?
Overall, cash pickup services throughout the global remittance industry are on a general downward trend at this moment due to social-distancing measures introduced by governments. People simply aren’t going out of their homes and are shifting more of their transactions and work online.
In some countries where we operate, we have seen a 100% swing to digital payout methods such as bank accounts, mobile money or airtime top up – for example in Thailand and Fiji. But it’s still too early to tell whether or not we are looking at a 100% cashless world in the future. Cash is still king to many people around the world.
What other options do I have to receive money besides cash pick ups?
In addition to cash pick up, you can receive money directly into a bank account or mobile money wallet from your sender.
The sender can also send you Airtime directly to your phone, helping you stay connected to loved ones.
How can I send money to mobile money accounts in Zimbabwe?
Transfers to EcoCash are unaffected and running as usual. Your recipient can receive their money in USD and choose to convert to local currency by dialing *150# and selecting Option 1 for Bureau de Change.
Mobile Money Cash pick up with EcoCash is guaranteed. We have selected Econet shops guaranteeing cash for those who would like to receive cash in USD.
You can buy goods and services in USD from the FCA mobile wallet. As per the Government circular on Friday 27th March, USD can be used to purchase goods and services or send money to family and friends across the country.
Bank Transfers
Bank transfer services are available. You can send money to your family and friends with FCA bank accounts in Zimbabwe. Please ensure that your beneficiaries provide the correct FCA bank account details to avoid any inconvenience. If the beneficiary is not sure about the type of bank account for a USD deposit, they should contact their bank.
What is airtime top up?
When you connect a mobile phone to a telecoms network, you need to purchase credit to enable you to use that telco network’s airtime. Airtime allows you to access the network’s services.
Direct airtime top-ups via WorldRemit are critical at this time when people are asked to work from home and stay indoors, since it allows for purchase of Internet data bundles, which support work, entertainment and keep local internet-based companies as well as SMEs in business.
If I still want a cash payout, how long will the Covid-19 situation impact movement?
Governments all around the world recognize the importance of remittances and are doing their best to make sure you can access money safely. As a company, we are also doing everything possible to minimize disruption.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
We support the government directive on remittances. We know our money transfer service is crucial in allowing you to help friends and family in areas impacted by the virus. We want you to stay safe, so where possible we ask you to choose to receive money to bank accounts or via mobile money.
At times like these, we know distances can feel greater than ever before. Our hearts go out to everyone who is being affected by the coronavirus, either directly or indirectly.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola’s mother died after contracting COVID-19, the club announced Monday. She was 82.
“The Manchester City family are devastated to report the death today of Pep’s mother Dolors Sala Carrió in Manresa, Barcelona, after contracting coronavirus,” Manchester City wrote in a public statement.
The 49-year-old Guardiola donated more than $100,000 to aid the fight against coronavirus in Spain last month and appeared on a team video urging fans to stay at home.
Spain has been badly affected by the pandemic with more than 13,000 deaths reported. Manchester City’s rival, Manchester United, sent condolences on Twitter, writing:
“Everyone at Manchester United is saddened to hear this terrible news.
We send our heartfelt condolences to Pep and his family. #ACityUnited.”- USA Today
MDC Alliance co-vice president Welshman Ncube has said the Thokozani Khupe-led MDC-T will not be able to hold an extraordinary congress as it lacks the required quorum.
In an interview with CITE , Ncube said Khupe, Douglas Mwonzora and Morgen Komichi cannot implement the Supreme Court judgement which declared that Khupe is the legitimate MDC-T acting president because the 2014 structures are no longer there. The majority of the people who were in the structures are now within the MDC Alliance structures.
Said Ncube: Unless they create fake structures they are incapable of implementing that Supreme Court judgement because those 2014 structures in 2018 they didn’t exist.
If they go to individuals to say we want to put you in structures those individuals will say we don’t want because they are members of the MDC Alliance, they are not interested in this Zanu PF project, it is an impossibility it can’t be done.
They can’t convene a meeting of the National Council with a quorum, they cannot hold a congress without a quorum.
Remember that congress will require two-thirds of congress members for you to have congress.
Where are they going to get it from? Mwonzora is however on record saying if people decided to boycott the congress, a decision will be made on their behalf by others.-CITE
Zimbabwe’s power crisis will not be resolved – as long as the ED led illegitimate regime continues to sleep at the wheel.
As the economy is ravaged by incessant power shortages – which have not only crippled private homes, but the entire business sector, rendering the country unfit for any meaningful investment – the illegitimate regime pretends as if everything is alright, as they stubbornly continue in their slumber, without any regard for the adverse effects bedeviling the nation.
The Zimbabwe power generation sector – which, has not seen any significant investment ever since the country attained independence from Britain in 1980 – remains one the most neglected and under-capitalized sectors, thereby, further dashing any hopes for the government’s envisaged ‘Vision 2030’ dream – that, is fast turning into a ferocious nightmare.
The country desperately requires an average 2200 MW – a bare minimum, just to sustain a relatively ‘normal’ economy and livelihood – yet, only produces a pathetic 1100 MW of electricity, due to an aged and inefficient transmission and distribution network.
However, if the country is to attract the much needed foreign direct investment – to boost the economy, and create significant jobs for the ever-suffering population – there is urgent need for power generation to be increased to at least 4000 MW by the year 2023, and 6000 MW by 2029.
This is the vision that the People’s party, the Movement for Democratic Change Alliance (MDC-A) has – as espoused in the SMART blueprint – being the only true panacea for this perennial problem that has dogged the nation for the past 40 years, apparently with no end in sight, at the hands of the incompetent and inept illegitimate regime
This will, however, not come cheap, as such expansion and recapitalization would cost an estimated USD 4.33 billion – which, obviously requires genuine political will, vision, innovation, and sound policies – all of which are glaringly missing from the current government.
The most immediate requirement is to address transitional challenges that the power utility (Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority – ZESA) is faced with, by empowering them to import at least 400 MW from South Africa’s Eskom, or HBC. Nonetheless, this demands dollarization, and ZESA levying in the greenback, for them to be able to facilitate such imports – as we can never run away from the fact that, unless the power utility is capacitated through drastic measures, there will never be any hope for this country, and its people and businesses.
As the saying goes, “prevention is cheaper (or better) than curing” – Zimbabwe now is faced with a daunting and very expensive task, due to the authorities’ seemingly uncaring and apathetic approach to responsibility and duty over the past 40 years.
The country’s power generation and distribution facilities had to be constantly and efficiently managed and maintained over the years, yet there have been neglected ever since Rhodesia ceased to exist.
What the People’s party urges is the rehabilitation and modernization of Hwange 1 to 6 power stations, speedy and serious construction of Hwange 7 and 8 thermal stations, construction of a 2000 MW hydro-power station at Batoka Gorge to be shared with Zambia, construction of a coal-fired power plant at Gokwe Senga and the Lupane Gas Projects, construction of at least 30 small hydro-power stations throughout the country, and rehabilitation and modernization of Bulawayo, Harare, and Sanyati power stations.
Furthermore, as the globe moves towards sustainable and renewable power sources, Zimbabwe should never be found wanting, thus, there is urgent need to exploit such green alternatives as solar, wind, degradable biomass energy, as well as the promotion of cleaner fossil energy products, liquid bio fuels as ethanol, and methane gas in Matebeleland North province.
The underlying uncompromising principle to the fulfilment of all these programs is: “unwavering dedication, commitment, and transparency” – facets which have been grossly missing in the current administration’s approach to their responsibilities demanded by the citizenry, for a better and more prosperous Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe’s national grid requires an injection of at least USD 300 million, for its modernization. Furthermore, each household should be installed with solar energy panels, that will power such implements as geysers, with incentives being provided to citizens who migrate to alternative sources of energy.
To ensure that the nation’s power generation is always at its peak, pre-paid meters should be rolled out to every sector, including agriculture and industry – to avoid the current scenario, whereby, the power utility is prejudiced million and millions of US dollars, due to these entities’ failure in fulfilling their energy bills.
Genuine incentives should also be awarded to all massive power users, such as the industrial sector, to adopt alternative power generation – as the status quo fails to adequately attract such ventures.
The promotion of Independent Power Producers (IPPs) must be accelerated, as the surest way for the nation’s energy challenges to be speedily resolved in the shortest possible time – whereby, as in other countries, private players are permitted to compete with ZESA in the provision of electricity, a scenario that would inevitably result not only in increased production and availability of power, but at much affordable tariffs, due to the advancement in technology and economies of scale.
The People’s party knows fully well that, unless and until, these policies are implemented without any wavering and deceitfulness, there is absolutely no reason why Zimbabwe can not permanently resolve its power challenges – thereby, ensuring that every household and business operates effectively and efficiently – but, becomes a regional energy powerhouse.
For the moment, the illegitimate regime is sleeping at the wheel, but with the citizens’ resolve, those in power should be made to account for their occupation of those offices.
Jasmine Toffa MDC Alliance Secretary for Energy and Power Development
Farai Dziva|Emmerson Mnangagwa and his ilk are desperate to create a one party state as they know they are unelectable, MDC Youth Assembly spokesperson, Stephen Chuma has said.
Below is Chuma’s full statement :
The MDC Alliance Youth Assembly under the able stewardship of Commander Obey Sithole reiterates its support and commitment to complete the National Democratic Struggle under the leadership of Commander in Chief, Advocate Nelson Nelson.
As the vanguard of the movement, our position is very clear that President Nelson Chamisa is the only compass that gives direction to the democratic revolutionary wagon.
Advocate Nelson Chamisa is the encyclopedia of our revolution with a clear vision and bank of knowledge acquired from many years of walking side by side with our founding icon, Dr Morgan Tsvangirai.
The leadership question of the MDC was put to rest during the Gweru 2019 Congress where our structures gave a five year mandate to the current leadership led by Advocate Nelson Chamisa.
Any summersault via the Supreme Court by bitter Congress losers is betrayal and we can not accept black market leadership imposed on us by ZANU PF.
It is clear that Emmerson Mnangagwa knows that he is unelectable hence his latest attempt to create a one party state through dismantling a genuine and formidable political alternative.
As the MDC Youth Assembly we urge all progressive young people to rally behind the People’s President, Advocate Nelson Chamisa as we complete the change.
Farai Dziva|MDC Youth Assembly chairperson Tererai Obey Sithole has dismissed reports that Senator Douglas Mwonzora is now in charge of Morgan Tsvangirai House.
“The news that one Douglas Mwonzora has taken over our party HQ is fake and remains fake!!!
I was not only at the HQ but I was in my office, having conversations with some members of the staff manning our offices during this lockdown period.
Stay calm, President Nelson Chamisa is in charge,” Sithole wrote on Facebook.
“Just finished a very fruitful meeting with the MDC Alliance North America Province Youth Assembly leadership.
Their support remains unwavering, their message is very clear, Nelson Chamisa is our President. Locally & abroad shoko ndiro ndiro, Chamisa Chete Chete!”
Farai Dziva|MDC Youth Assembly chairperson Tererai Obey Sithole has dismissed reports that Senator Douglas Mwonzora is now in charge of Morgan Tsvangirai House.
“The news that one Douglas Mwonzora has taken over our party HQ is fake and remains fake!!!
I was not only at the HQ but I was in my office, having conversations with some members of the staff manning our offices during this lockdown period.
Stay calm, President Nelson Chamisa is in charge,” Sithole wrote on Facebook.
“Just finished a very fruitful meeting with the MDC Alliance North America Province Youth Assembly leadership.
Their support remains unwavering, their message is very clear, Nelson Chamisa is our President. Locally & abroad shoko ndiro ndiro, Chamisa Chete Chete!”
Farai Dziva|Former MDC- T vice president Obert Chaurura Gutu has vowed to sabotage MDC president Nelson Chamisa’s 2023 Presidential bid.
In an interview with an online publucation, Gutu described his homeboy as a “young dictator.”
Gutu also boasted of blocking Chamisa’s path.
However, political observers believe Gutu’s remarks are loaded with emotional overtones.
According to NewsDay senior reporter, Blessed Mhlanga, Gutu’s latest remarks indicate that Khupe’s party does not want State power or to serve the people but to stop Chamisa from becoming the president of Zimbabwe.
“Gutu has just spilt the beans – they don’t want state power or to serve the people noooo. They just want to stop @nelsonchamisa.
The truth is only @nelsonchamisa and @edmnangagwa have a plan of getting into power.”
The MDC Alliance Youth Assembly under the able stewardship of Commander Obey Sithole reiterates its support and commitment to complete the National Democratic Struggle under the leadership of Commander in Chief, Advocate Nelson Nelson.
As the vanguard of the movement, our position is very clear that President Nelson Chamisa is the only compass that gives direction to the democratic revolutionary wagon.
Advocate Nelson Chamisa is the encyclopedia of our revolution with a clear vision and bank of knowledge acquired from many years of walking side by side with our founding icon, Dr Morgan Tsvangirai.
The leadership question of the MDC was put to rest during the Gweru 2019 Congress where our structures gave a five year mandate to the current leadership led by Advocate Nelson Chamisa.
Any summersault via the Supreme Court by bitter Congress losers is betrayal and we can not accept black market leadership imposed on us by ZANU PF.
It is clear that Emmerson Mnangagwa knows that he is unelectable hence his latest attempt to create a one party state through dismantling a genuine and formidable political alternative.
As the MDC Youth Assembly we urge all progressive young people to rally behind the People’s President, Advocate Nelson Chamisa as we complete the change.
The thoughts in this shot piece are my own and reflect my personal feelings towards this pandemic.
The Novel Coronavirus COVID-19 that has ravaged the world has brought the world to a standstill.
The virus was first detected in late 2019 in Wuhan, China.
The world has experienced virus outbreaks in the past such as the Ebola virus and the SARS virus.
What is scary about this latest virus is how contagious it is and how easy it is to pass from one person to another. We live in a globalised world where it is now easy to get to the four corners of the world very fast; the readily available air transport has meant that the virus can easily be transported from one country to another.
There is a huge debate about how to best prepare for any outbreak in the future and what we must do now to halt the spread of the virus.
A lot of conspiracy theories and fear mongering is now the order of the day.
I have a lot of respect for Prophet Makandiwa but his assertions are nothing but misleading.
The ideas mooted by Bill Gates for a Universal vaccine are spot on and here is why.
Our bodies have a natural defence system against any diseases that attack us; the soldiers that fight on our behalf are called antibodies.
Antibodies are specific to a particular type of infection so those who will have defeatd the Coronavirus will now have those antibodies should the disease attack again. A universal vaccine will be the best thing to ensure that we are all safe from any future attacks of this Coronaviruses. I do not support a chip but a proper vaccine like the polio vaccine that is injected to each individual whilst young. If we are injected then we can be assured that no one will pass it to another person again.
The vaccine must be generic so that if any other type of flu virus comes it will be stopped abruptly. The conspiracy theorists are somehow linking 5G technology and the Universal vaccine which is very ridiculous.
For the record I don’t support the fact that the vaccines must be tested in Africa first but we as Africans must also be vaccinated should an appropriate vaccine be found
A universal vaccine remains our best chance to defeat any other virus in the future.
By A Correspondent- A bride-to-be who showed up at the Bulawayo Civil Court housed at Tredgold Building on Tuesday morning in formal wedding clothes and was turned away at the door, shared her heartbreak and anger after she was forced to cancel her much hyped once-in-a-lifetime moment because of Covid-19.
Helen, who did not want her last name used for privacy reasons, told a local publication that she was absolutely gutted but later felt safety was a priority.
“I was initially disappointed because I spent so much time and effort planning this over the past year. But it later dawned on me that I should not worry much because my health and that of my friends and relatives is more important than a wedding event. With my loved one we are, however, willing to work around whatever obstacles come our way,” she said.
Helen was not the only bride-to-be whose search for love in the time of the coronavirus was cancelled in Zimbabwe after Chief Justice Luke Malaba on Monday directed the country’s civil courts to cancel all pre-booked weddings.
Couples, some from far away places and even from outside the country, had turned up to tie the knot but were turned away after being told that no marriages were taking place.
In a statement on Monday, CJ Malaba said as part of social distancing, courts were limiting attendance with all persons accessing court buildings now required to be sanitised and those seeking services maintaining a distance of at least two metres in the queues.
CJ Malaba said those who had booked for their weddings would need to rebook after two months.
“All weddings are cancelled and parties may approach the courts for rebooking after a period of two months,” said CJ Malaba.
The cancellation of weddings came as Zimbabwe recorded its first Covid-19 death on Monday after a patient who was admitted to Wilkins Hospital in Harare died on Monday morning.
The victim, Zororo Makamba (30), was the second person to test positive for Covid-19 after travelling to New York in the United States of America on February 29 and returning home on March 9 via Johannesburg.
Sources at the Civil Court at Tredgold in Bulawayo said they were of late limiting bookings for weddings to five on Tuesday and another five on Friday, meaning in the two months up to 80 weddings could have been cancelled excluding the Western Commonage courts, where vows are also exchanged.
Weddings at the magistrates’ courts take place on Tuesdays and Fridays, although most couples prefer Fridays so that they go partying afterwards.
“We got a directive to suspend marriages until further notice. We even phoned some of the couples soon after getting the directive but we were surprised to see some of them in the morning today (Tuesday) in their formal wedding clothes,” said a judicial officer, who declined to be named.
According to statistics obtained from the Bulawayo High Court the number of couples who had their marriages solemnised by magistrates at the Bulawayo’s Tredgold Building increased to 1 267 in 2019 compared to the previous year when 1 192 couples exchanged marriages vows.
In Zimbabwe, the marriage institution is treated with great respect and people pour in large sums of money in preparations.
Research has also revealed that although it’s hard to evaluate how much effect will last over time, missing on these types of once-in-a-lifetime experiences such as weddings can have a negative psychological impact in one’s life.- StateMedia
By A Correspondent- The Daily Social Distancing show host Trevor Noah says he has been receiving death threats after he interviewed Microsoft Founder and philanthropist Bill Gates to discuss coronavirus testing, accelerating vaccine development and how the world will rebound.
In a tweet on Sunday Noah said:
“Now I see why I’ve been getting death threats for interviewing Bill.”
His tweet was ignited by News24 which issued an apology after reporting that Gates wanted to use Africans to test a new vaccine for Coronavirus.
When businessman Ali Naka told Trevor to take the vaccines first he said:
“Where in this entire interview do you hear either of us saying a vaccine will be tested in Africa? Are you confusing us with those French doctors or are you just trying to get retweets?”
The interview irked African soccer star Didier Drogba who urged African leaders to stand up and defend their citizens against being used as guinea pigs.
“It is totally inconceivable we keep on cautioning this. Africa isn’t a testing lab. I would like to vividly denounce those demeaning, false and most of all deeply racists words. Helps us save Africa with the current ongoing Covid 19 and flatten the curve.” Drogba fumed.
“Let us save ourselves from this crazy virus that is plummeting the world economy and ravaging populations health worldwide. Do not take African people as human guinnea pigs! It’s absolutely disgusting.
“African leaders have a responsibility to protect their populations from those horrendous conspiracies. May god protect us!”
By A Correspondent- Deputy Government Spokesperson Energy Mutodi says the government recognizes Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa as a true Man of God and pleaded with him sand other Prophets to lead the nation in praying to God for His intervention amidst the deadly Coronavirus pandemic.
On Sunday the UFIC leader was angry after the media branded him as a false prophet who lied that he prophesied the coming of the Coronavirus.
Said Mutodi:
“We have no doubt that prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa is a true man of God. In the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, His Excellency President ED Mnangagwa is calling upon all prophets to intercede for the nation and save our great country Zimbabwe.”
We have no doubt that prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa is a true man of God. In the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, His Excellency President ED Mnangagwa is calling upon all prophets to intercede for the nation & save our great country Zimbabwe.
In an emotionally charged up sermon delivered on Sunday through social media, Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa said it is him who saved Mnangagwa’s life prophetically and he went on to appoint small boys who should be grateful to him instead of fighting him.
By A Correspondent- Pandemonium broke out on Monday at two Kuwadzana OK outlets as police on duty in the area fired tear smoke to disperse crowds that had begun gathering to buy subsidised mealie meal.
Police fired the tear gas on the pretext that they intended to enforce lockdown restrictions only to buy the maize meal themselves.
A local publication reported that it later emerged that the officers had connived with OK Kuwadzana management stores to scatter members of the public so that they could buy the mealie meal all by themselves.
Said sources privy to developments:
Upon delivery of the mealie- meal at the OK outlets, the police suddenly started firing teargas in efforts to cause a commotion and disperse the crowds so they could buy the mealie meal all by themselves. They are in this together with management at both the OK supermarket outlets in Kuwadzana.
Reports from Bulawayo have also claimed that police officers are involved in the thriving black market trade in subsidised mealie meal.
They allegedly used their proximity to the supply chains to divert the product from the formal to the parallel market where is sold strictly for cash at exorbitant prices.-ZimMorningPost
By A Correspondent- An 18 year old woman and her 11 month old baby died in a crocodile attack recently in Onapathali in Mhangura.
Esnath Mavhangira was fetching water for her garden while carrying her daughter, Susan Chiwanza, on her back when the crocodile attacked. She was dragged into the dam where both she and the baby drowned.
The bodies have since been retrieved.
Efforts to get a comment from Mashonaland West’s provincial police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Ian Kohwera were futile.
Mhangura constituency legislator Cde Precious Chinhamo Masango confirmed the deaths and said the attack underscored the urgent need for Zimbabwe National Parks and Wildlife Authority to respond promptly to human-wildlife conflicts.
The request comes after farmers in her constituency reported lions were threatening livestock and elephants were destroying crops. ZimParks spokesperson Mr Tinashe Farawo confirmed the crocodile attack but could not shed more light on the lion and elephant menace saying he was waiting for reports from rangers on the ground.
“We have since deployed a team of rangers to capture or drive away from the animals. We hope to bring the situation to normalcy in no time.”-StateMedia
Responding to MDC leader Nelson Chamisa’s tweet wishing British Prime Minister Boris Johnson a speedy recovery, Kate Hoey also extended her best wishes to ‘Zimbabweans fighting the pandemic with no regular water and electricity as well as those in fear of dictatorship.’
Below is Chamisa’s tweet and Johnson’s response….
Chamisa: Wishing PM @BorisJohnson a full & speedy recovery.Our thoughts & prayers are with all those whose families & loved ones are affected by COVID19.We must remain vigilant & play our part. Social distance, wash your hands & report suspected cases.COVID19 must fall!
Kate Hoey: Best wishes to all Zimbabweans fighting this pandemic especially those with no regular water supply and electricity or in fear of dictatorship #prayforzimbabwetoo
By A Correspondent- The Zimbabwean government’s spokesperson Nick Mangwana has dismissed a statement purportedly issued by the Office of the President instructing landlords not to demand rentals from their tenants for three months in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Mangwana said President Mnangagwa “has not issued a moratorium on the payment of rentals”. The COVID-19 Taskforce discussed this request from some citizens and concluded that the government cannot interfere with civil contracts under current law, Mangwana explained.
Below is the statement dismissed by Mangagwana as fake:
Due to Coronavirus that is now a pandemic and it’s causing a lot of damage to our economy. I direct to notify all the Landlords and Landladies in Zimbabwe not to collect rent from any Zimbabwean for the period of 3 Months (90 days) from the day of Lockdown. This will include residential and Business premises, Farms and Garages.
Kindly note that for those who have received any payment as a rental for the said period must return full amount without delay by 10th of April 2020.
This is to allow Zimbabweans to stay home as we fight this war of the Corona Virus. There is a possibility to add lockdown days in Zimbabwe since we are receiving more cases of Corona Virus from other Countries as well as in Zimbabwe.
Failure by any of the Landlords and Landladies to abide by this will face the Law. Please let’s fight this Virus together and follow precautions of washing your hands and not greeting people.
By A Correspondent- Socialite Olinda Chapel has told her ex baby father Tytan Skhokho to leave her alone as she is just doing fine.
Chapel, said this in a live Instagram video updating viewers on the latest developments between her and baby daddy Tytan after their divorce.
The video which by the way has opened a can of worms for both parties saw Chapel dissing her ex that she was ok and did not need him in her life after his betrayal.
Last month, Tytan revealed that Olinda Chapel is HIV positive and exposed her status with his lawyer in an interview soon after the divorce.
From the latest videos from Olinda she claims Tytan is forcing her to reply to some emails he is sending to her.
The duo have a daughter named Nandi.
Watch the video below where Olinda tells Tytan to back off…..
“. . . As it has turned out, Tsvangirai’s decision (to appoint Chamisa and Mudzuri) was legally incorrect, as the courts have established, but if he were around today, he would probably still be sure that he took the right political decision…” – Magaisa
Alex Magaisa
The former advisor to late MDC president Mr Morgan Tsvangirai has suggested that his ex-boss in 2016 ignored advice on what he terms “illegality” of the appointment of Mr Nelson Chamisa and Engineer Elias Mudzuri as his deputies.
VIDEO LOADING BELOW
Commenting on the Supreme Court judgment made against current MDC leader Nelson Chamisa in an article “Critical Analysis of the Supreme Court Judgment” at the weekend, Alex Magaisa said Tsvangirai did not heed the advice given after appointing Chamisa and Eng Mudzuri.
Magaisa’s comment comes despite the fact that Tsvangirai did this using a clear constitutional amendment even acknowledged by Chamisa nemesis Thokozani Khupe.’
The MDC Constitution was changed 4 times between 2008 and 2016. In 2009, two amendments were approved effected that removed term limits on Tsvangirai who was supposed to step down by the year 2011.
In 2014, another amendment was effected which dethroned the party’s Secretary General of powers of succession (replacing the President).
In 2016, the MDC -T party changed the constitution again this time to give Tsvangirai powers to appoint deputies. Thokozani Khupe’s party would 2 years later remove this clause saying it created a one centre of power, resulting in a leadership dispute blamed for the split with Nelson Chamisa’s party. Khupe’s secretary-general, Nixon Nyikadzino has said the Khupe-led MDC-T has since amended the party constitution to do away with the one centre of power he says was abused by the late Tsvangirai.
“Also, we are simply giving back powers of constitutional amendments to the congress. We are simply ensuring that we do not have a one centre of power in the constitution of the MDC-T,” said Nyikadzino.
Magaisa whose analysis has been relied upon by the Emmerson Mnangagwa state media, commented criticising his own boss’ successor. He is not new to attacking his senior and in 2014, he loudly claimed he was same level with the man he worked for, Tsvangirai, and was paid a huge lumpsum including perks. (See his article reprinted below).
This time Magaisa now claims Tsvangirai’s appointment of two deputies, Nelson Chamisa and Elias Mudzuri was illegal, saying it was a clash of politics and law.
As Khupe's Sec General says it was perfectly constitutional (2016 amendment), Alex Magaisa who has in writing loudly claimed he was same level with Tsvangirai while working as his advisor, says Chamisa @nelsonchamisa 's appointment by Tsvangirai was illegal | WHO IS LYING?
Back then, he did not publicly criticise the move which Khupe’s party confirms was via a constitutional amendment now needing to be repealed
“Technically, it is difficult to fault the finding concerning the 2016 appointments. Questions were raised at the time of the appointments (including in this column) but the advice was not heeded. If supposing that a challenge had been successfully brought to court at the time, there is every chance that a court might have reversed the appointments,” writes Magaisa.
He continues saying:
“Those of us who raised caution in 2016 derive no pleasure at the turn of events. Another lesson is the problem of not challenging leaders when they are wrong.”
He says the outcome of the case brought to the fore the clash between law and politics.
“Any lawyer who has worked in politics or with politicians understands the difficulty of persuading politicians when laws stand in the way of political objectives. Politicians know they must follow the law, but they also know that their stock-in-trade is to make political decisions to drive political objectives.
“Advisers know that politicians must follow the law but they are also sensitive to the realities of political life. Sometimes decisions just have to be made.
“. . . As it has turned out, Tsvangirai’s decision was legally incorrect, as the courts have established, but if he were around today, he would probably still be sure that he took the right political decision. If you ask his many supporters, they also still believe it was the correct political move particularly given the direction that his would-be successors have taken since his death,” adds Magaisa.
“. . . Likewise, Chamisa’s ascendancy to the leadership may have been legally deficient as the courts have stated, but his multitude of supporters remain convinced that it was the right political move,” said Magaisa.
While Magaisa has focused on this, other scholars said there is no problem and no need for confusion. The South Africa based Legal expert Dr Tapiwa Shumba said a political party has its legs at the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission. He was also commenting on claims by Douglas Mwonzora that there is no party called MDC Alliance. Below was his full text:
By Dr Tapiwa Shumba | There is no reason for any confusion. It is the MDC trading politically as MDC Alliance. It’s been like that ever since. We were MDC trading as MDC-T and noone ever asked why everything about us was still MDC. Noone has ever seen an MDC-T constitution. We always celebrated MDC Anniversary and used MDC in our communications. It has always been MDC but MDC T started as far back as 2008 (before elections).
It’s a choice we make to connect to our history and traditions as we continue to renew, transform and grow on the other hand. It is the transacting name, which is the most relevant in Zimbabwe political context, that changes depending on the electoral market and dynamics. That’s why there is nothing trading as MDC currently. There is no MDC Councillor or MP. Many people don’t understand that MDC is now almost like our nickname or better still mutupo/totem in the Zim political context. Riri pachitupa now is MDC Alliance – it used to be MDC-T. Where our identity is requested for official reasons i.e ZEC and Parliament, Council we use the official name for the electoral cycle – now MDC Alliance. Hakuna chinhu chinonzi MDC kwese ikoko.
I say this because I see people asking. 1) Where is the MDC Alliance Consitution saka? (In fact you are not required to have any constitution in Zim). 2. Why did you celebrate 20 years Anniversary? 3. Why did you have 5th Congress? 4. Why are you stil using Harvest House HQ.
Until you understand that in Zimbabwe a Party only exists at ZEC, Parliament and Government you will continue to get confused about the MDC and MDC Alliance, the former being a street name at the latter being an official name. We will always officially transform to adapt to the political and electoral realities of the day but the soul will remain MDC, yet officially speaking, the MDC (our MDC) ceased to exist as an official electoral entity in 2008. The official MDC-T was abandoned when Thokozani Khupe abused it.
The transformation that takes place with the MDC in every electoral cycle is the fundamental reason why it is first class nonsense for anyone to say the Party must revert to a pre-electoral state. Pre-electoral state of the MDC are footsteps, hakuna chinhu, kunosara mutupo iwoyu unonzi MDC chete. That’s why there is this confusion, yet in truth, there is nothing new in the transformation of political parties. Consider this question – how old is ZANU-PF – and what is ZANU in all this – does ZANU-PF say it started in 1987 – but why do they claim and celebrate the 70s heroes and victories of ZANU when ZANU-PF started in 1987? Lastly, don’t be stupid.
By A Correspondent- The suspected CIO operative who was pictured inside a car with MDC-T self proclaimed Chairman, 2 days after Morgen Komichi broke away from the MDC Alliance party last week, Felix Chiroro spoke to ZimEye on Tuesday morning.
He denied any links with the state security revealing that he runs a horticulture business.
MR Chiroro also stood his ground to defend Komichi’s actions saying they are both legal and constitutional.
He said Chamisa cannot reject Justice Patel’s ruling on the basis that it refers to Khupe’s faction and Chamisa leads a new MDC, because according to him, it is not at all new.
He told ZimEye in part: “if Chamisa’s party is a different one altogether from the one left by Tsvangirai, then why are they using the headquarters?
“How did they transfer the building ownership or occupancy from the “old” party to the new?”
By A Correspondent- National Patriotic Front spokesperson Jealousy Mawarire says one of the reasons why MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa got more votes in the 2018 presidential election that Morgan Tsvangirai attained in any presidential election he participated is that the former received votes from Zanu Pf.
Mawarire claimed that Chamisa’s votes were boosted by the late former President Robert Mugabe’s supporters.
He was speaking in response to former MDC-T spokesperson Obert Gutu’s claim that Chamisa performed well in the election because he was riding on the Tsvangirai brand.
Below is Mawarire’s full Twitter thread:
Ask Obert Gutu the highest number of votes Tsvangirai got in any of the three presidential elections he participated in.
Why is it that he NEVER hit the 2 million mark that Nelson Chamisa got? So the brand got lesser votes than the one benefitting from it? Mamwe malawyer so!
Granted, Tsvangirai founded MDC but his highest number of votes in any presidential election he participated in is 1.2 million in 2002, almost 1 million fewer votes than the 2.1 million that ZEC gave Nelson Chamisa after the 2018 electoral fraud.
I hold no brief for any of the feuding parties in the Junta-PF-MDC drama but as a student of Zim electoral politics, I believe there is ANOTHER factor which made Nelson Chamisa get 1 million more votes than Tsvangirai at his best and that factor is the MUGABE supporters.
It is a FACT that the late President Mugabe gave Nelson Chamisa his endorsement and many so-called G40s heeded and voted for the young man, that’s why he got more votes than MDC the party, or the Tsvangirai brand if u like to call it.
You have to be an incorrigible dunderhead not to see that plain FACT. The Junta-PF knows it, that’s why they have been planting confusionists to scuttle any efforts Nelson Chamisa is making to form a broader alliance with former G40 members.
The Junta might use dunderhead 3rd class lawyers to dismiss the role played by former Zanu-PF members in making Nelson Chamisa get 1m more votes than MT in any of the 3 elections he participated in because of fear of a repeat in 2023 but that can never obliterate the RGM factor.
What Junta-PF isn’t aware of is that they will NEVER get the Mugabe vote, a time shall come, and it has come,that RGM supporters will regroup,it doesn’t necessarily have to be around Chamisa,but surely a true,united and democratic alliance is in the horizon and Junta-PF days are numbered
“Those are lies by Douglas Mwonzora, but as as you can see I am actually leaving my office, I have just been in the office, the party remains safe, the properties also remain safe I was in the office since morning, as you can see,” said MDC Youth Leader, Tererai Obey Sithole . VIDEO:
Those are lies by Douglas @DMwonzora , but as as you can see I am actually leaving my office, I have just been in the office, the party remains safe, the properties also remain safe I was in the office since morning, as you can see." -. @TereraiSithole – video credit @263Chatpic.twitter.com/WLMEPVW8DP
The man pictured inside a car with the self proclaimed MDC-T Chairman, who MDC members accuse of being a CIO agent, 2 days after Morgen Komichi broke away from the MDC Alliance party last week, Felix Chiroro spoke to ZimEye on Tuesday morning.
He runs a horticulture business and has refuted allegations that he is a state agent.
On another note, Mr Chiroro also stood his ground to defend Komichi’s actions saying they are both legal and constitutional.
He said Chamisa cannot reject Justice Patel’s ruling on the basis that it refers to Khupe’s faction and Chamisa leads a new MDC, because according to him, it is not at all new.
He told ZimEye in part: “if Chamisa’s party is a different one altogether from the one left by Tsvangirai, then why are they using the headquarters?
“How did they transfer the building ownership or occupancy from the “old” party to the new?”
By A Correspondent| ZimEye on Monday investigated reports which alleged that truck drivers are being injected with an unknown substance since the weekend.
The reports submitted on the afternoon of the 6th April 2020, had two videos of men complaining mainly in the Shona language that they do not want to be injected.
A source told ZimEye their sibling were witnesses of a said similar incident which they said happened on Monday afternoon. They alleged that the incidents are happening at Kazungula border.
One of the videos begins with the following narration: this is how it is here at the University of Zambia. This crowd you are seeing here all of them are truck drivers, we were at Kazungula border. We were kept there for some days. Some of us entered on the 30th of March, others entered earlier than us.
“After leaving Kazungula, we were told to come down here to Lusaka because some of the drivers their papers are still with the customs officials and the police so they were told to come down here to Lusaka to get their papers but upon coming here we were told to leave our trucks, park our trucks and come here to the University of Zambia.
“We came here to the University of Zambia yesterday last night. We were told to sleep and this morning there is nothing that has happened we are just waiting for the officials to come and address us…
“I think there is one official here who is addressing; I want to see exactly what is going on here but we are being guarded like we are criminals you can see there is a lot of police.
“To our surprise it is only one border which is being targeted because our friends who are using Chirundu they are moving freely. It is only those using Kazungula and Vic Falls coming from South Africa who are the ones brought here to Lusaka. Actually the main reason for bringing us here we don’t know.
“We are yet to find out what’s the reason for bringing us here.”
In another video which is not clear where it was shot there are men dressed as doctors or nurses seen surrounding a group of drivers and a woman screaming, “aaaah, deport to our country it is better to deport us. ”
Soon after that another woman then screams in the Shona language saying “these are the chemicals that are killing people. These chemicals will cause reactions in people’s bodies.”
Efforts to get a comment from the Zambian police were fruitless. ZimEye was in the process of making several telephone calls to different government offices, when we were told by at least 3 drivers that, “it is not true that they are injections. We got swabbed on the nose as part of testing for coronavirus, ” one of the drivers told ZimEye.
The other two drivers repeated the same response.
At the close of day there were no other direct comments from drivers, among those stranded in the neighbouring country.
By Jane Mlambo| Opposition MDC Spokesperson Daniel Molokele has refuted claims that the party headquarters had been taken over by want-away former Secretary General Douglas Mwonzora.
Posting on Twitter, Molokele said Youth Assembly Chairperson Obey Sithole had gone to Morgan Tsvangirai House and taken a few pictures to expose the state media lies.
“Our People’s Party Youth Assembly Chairperson has just taken a few pictures at the MRT House. Please ignore the fake news claiming that our party headquarters has been taken over. These are desperate lies from the Zanu funded media,” said Molokele.
The state-run Herald today published a story claiming that Mwonzora had taken over MRT house claiming that he was the legitimate Secretary General of the movement following a Supreme Court ruling that restore Dr Thokozani Khupe as the Acting President pending an Extra-ordinary congress.
By Own Correspondent| Zimbabwe doctors have asked government to provide them and other frontline medical practitioners with personal protective equipment (PPE) and to adequately equip public hospitals to protect them from the deadly coronavirus as they execute their duties and help slow the spread of the epidemic.
In an application filed on Sunday 5 April 2020, the doctors represented by Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights (ZADHR) protested that they are at risk of contracting coronavirus (COVID-19) because government had not put in place measures to ensure that health practitioners across the country, who include nurses, nurse aides and pharmacists among others are adequately protected against the deadly epidemic.
Zimbabwe has recorded 10 positive cases of coronavirus with one person, a prominent broadcaster, having died after contracting the disease.
Government, ZADHR argued, had not put in place adequate measures to ensure the screening and testing of personnel driving public transport provided by the state-run Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO) and other public service buses transporting authorised persons to and from work and to screen and test public servants and security services who continue to work during the 21-day national lockdown.
This, ZADHR said, creates potential exposure and creates a reasonable apprehension among doctors, who use the only available form of public transport that they will contract COVID-19 on their way to and from work as a result of the absence of screening and testing of personnel authorised to drive the public transport vehicles.
Government, ZADHR charged, has not put in place measures to ensure a robust screening and testing of people for coronavirus symptoms across the country, which puts its members at risk of contracting the disease as they also reside with members of the public.
The doctors’ representative body complained against the lack of adequate measures to ensure the screening, testing and quarantining of persons entering Zimbabwe from the various ports of entry or the tracing of some Zimbabweans who reportedly arrived from South Africa into Zimbabwe on the eve of the South African lockdown, thus seriously exposing Zimbabweans to the risk of contracting coronavirus.
ZADHR, which is represented by Andrew Makoni of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights, said more than 1 500 doctors were working in Zimbabwean hospitals across the country without adequate PPE including some specialists, nurses, nurse aides, technicians, pharmacists and other health practitioners.
ZADHR has listed Health and Child Care Minister Obadiah Moyo, Finance and Economic Development Minister Mthuli Ncube and Transport and Economic Development Minister Joel Biggie Matiza as respondents.
The doctors representative body, which said its members and other medical practitioners bore the brunt of the coronavirus pandemic and are vulnerable to contracting it, bemoaned the dire shortage of appropriate and equipment such as ventilators, oxygen tanks, Hazmat suits, N95 masks and properly manned quarantine and isolation facilities in the country, which ideally must be available in every district hospital.
ZADHR disclosed that those facilities were only available in Harare and Bulawayo leaving citizens outside these two centres at the risk of failing to timeously access healthcare.
ZADHR said the 1 500 doctors operating in Zimbabwe will require an average of at least three N95 masks per day, which translates to 4 500 masks per day for them.
By A Correspondent- President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his nemesis Nelson Chamisa have sent messages wishing the British Prime Minister Boris Johnson a speedy recovery.
Johnson is currently admitted to the hospital where he is being treated for the deadly Coronavirus.
Said Mnangagwa, “On behalf of the people of Zimbabwe, I wish Prime Minister Boris Johnson a speedy recovery and return to good health. We stand in solidarity with him and the British people during these challenging times.”
In response to Mnangagwa’s message ZANU PF said they hope when Johnson has recovered he will appreciate Zimbabwe’s policy of re-engagement.
Wishing PM @BorisJohnson a full & speedy recovery.Our thoughts & prayers are with all those whose families & loved ones are affected by COVID19.We must remain vigilant & play our part. Social distance, wash your hands & report suspected cases.COVID19 must fall!
“Thank you Cde President. You continue to lead the Party & Government with maturity and dignity. We hope the British PM Boris Johnson pulls through from the clutches of this pandemic. We hope in the fullness of time, the United Kingdom will appreciate the essence of re-engagement.”
United Kingdom has sour relations with the ZANU PF government which began in the early years of the millennium.
On behalf of the people of Zimbabwe, I wish Prime Minister @BorisJohnson a speedy recovery and return to good health. We stand in solidarity with him and the British people during these challenging times
The MDC Leader Chamisa urged Zimbabwe and to practice social distancing to fight the deadly virus.
“Wishing PM Boris Johnson a full and speedy recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those whose families and loved ones are affected by COVID19.”
Chamisa posted on Twitter. “We must remain vigilant and play our part. Social distance, wash your hands & report suspected cases. COVID19 must fall!”
Johnson’s condition is currently worsening and British media said he will be put on a ventilator to assist him to breathe.
By A Correspondent- A severe shortage of mealie meal has given birth to a thriving black market for subsidised roller meal, with the product being delivered to supermarkets in drips and drabs while it is abundantly available on the parallel market.
Some Bulawayo residents who spoke to the state media accused unscrupulous shop owners, local councillors and police officers who control mealie meal queues of diverting the product to the black market where it is sold strictly for cash.
Meanwhile, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Paul Mavima said the government is working on importing maize to make mealie meal readily available for the consuming public.
Said Mavima:
Although this is not something that is directly being handled by my Ministry, I am aware that Government is seized with the matter and has tasked an inter-ministerial team headed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade to bring grain into the country. I know they are doing a lot to improve the situation. The private sector is also doing something. With the two we are hopeful that the mealie-meal situation will improve.
Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe (GMAZ) spokesperson, Garikai Chaunza distanced his organisation from the ongoing chaos in the distribution of mealie meal.
Chaunza said GMAZ has offered the government 40 000 metric tonnes of maize to purchase to avert the prevailing mealie-meal shortages but the government has not yet taken the offer.-StateMedia
By A Correspondent- A Zanu PF legislator in Chiredzi reportedly commandeered 13,4 tonnes of the subsidised roller meal from OK Triangle and distributed it to party supporters.
Farai Musikavanhu, who represents Chiredzi West, was also involved in the nocturnal distribution of mealie meal last week while he allegedly instructed Chiredzi Town Council to remove electric beds received from MDC Alliance losing MP aspirant John Manganye from the council hospital in June last year.
Masvingo Zanu PF spokesperson Ronald Ndava said the party was not involved in the distribution of maize meal in Chiredzi, saying the programme had been initiated by local MPs.
He told a local publication:
This, not a party programme. However, it’s an initiative that was done by our local leadership, MPs in particular. As Zanu PF, we have never sat down to plan how mealie-meal was going to be distributed in Chiredzi.
So if there are issues with the programme, those are your contact persons for improvement or review.
After grabbing the mealie meal delivery, Musikavanhu sent a message to all ZANU PF councillors in his constituency lamenting the fact that nine tonnes of the commodity was sold to members of the public before he had laid his hands on them.-Newsday
The state run Herald has published a story claiming that beleaguered MDC-T secretary-general Mr Douglas Mwonzora had taken charge of the opposition party’s affairs and locked up the party’s headquarters, Morgan Richard Tsvangirai (MRT) House but party youths said it’s fake as that has not happened.
The Herald quoted Mwonzora saying, “I am the secretary-general and I am in charge of the day-to-day running of the party. I have closed the party offices up until the end of the 21-day lockdown. We have to follow the law,” said Mr Mwonzora.
But Secretary General of the MDC, Charlton Hwende refuted the claims saying he was still in charge of the party headquarters.
“Mr Mwonzora is not responsible for the administration of the MDC-Alliance. He is in charge of the MDC-T that is led by Khupe. I am at the MRT House now and still in charge directing our Covid-19 strategy and intervention,” fumed Mr Hwende.
MDC Youth Assembly Secretary General Gift Siziba warned that they will not sit and allow Mwonzora to claim what does not belong to him adding that they will end the lockdown and flood the streets once the ‘rebels’ get access to Harvest House.
“I wake up to the rumor that @DMwonzora claims to have locked Harvets house. It is fake! Any hostile attempt to take over MRT house will be the end to #zimlockdown,” said Siziba.
By Jane Mlambo| President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his nemesis Nelson Chamisa have joined hands to wish speedy recovery to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson who was yesterday evening taken into the Intensive Care Unit after his COVID-19 symptoms persisted.
Mnangagwa and Chamisa took to Twitter to wish Boris aspeedy recovery.
BBC|CHINA reported no coronavirus deaths on Tuesday, the first time since it started publishing daily figures in January.
The National Health Commission said it had 32 confirmed cases, down from 39 on Monday.
It comes as the government is under scrutiny as to whether it is under reporting its figures.
The government says more than 3,331 people have died and 81,740 have been confirmed as infected.
All of the confirmed cases on Tuesday had arrived from overseas.
China is concerned a second wave of infections could be brought in by foreign arrivals.
It has already shut its border to foreigners including those with visas or residence permits.
International flights have been reduced with both Chinese and foreign airlines only allowed to operate one international flight a week. Flights must not be more than 75% full.
On Wednesday, Wuhan is set to allow people to leave the city for the first time since the lockdown began in January.
Officials say anyone who has a “green” code on a widely used smartphone health app will be allowed to leave the city.
Some people in “epidemic-free” residential compounds have already been allowed to leave their homes for two hours.
But Wuhan officials revoked the “epidemic-free” status in 45 compounds because of the emergence of asymptomatic cases and for other unspecified reasons.
Asymptomatic refers to someone who is carrying the virus but experiencing no symptoms.
China began reporting asymptomatic cases at the beginning of April.
More than 1,033 asymptomatic patients are under medical observation.
Hitting back at claims China was too slow to raise the alarm, the country’s state media have published what they describe as a detailed timeline of its response and information sharing.
A ZANU PF MP in Chiredzi reportedly commandeered 13,4 tonnes of the subsidised roller meal from OK Triangle and distributed it to party supporters.
Farai Musikavanhu, who represents Chiredzi West, was also involved in the nocturnal distribution of mealie meal last week while he allegedly instructed Chiredzi Town Council to remove electric beds received from MDC Alliance losing MP aspirant John Manganye from the council hospital in June last year.
Masvingo Zanu PF spokesperson Ronald Ndava said the party was not involved in the distribution of maize meal in Chiredzi, saying the programme had been initiated by local MPs.
This, not a party programme. However, it’s an initiative that was done by our local leadership, MPs in particular. As Zanu PF, we have never sat down to plan how mealie-meal was going to be distributed in Chiredzi.
So if there are issues with the programme, those are your contact persons for improvement or review.
After grabbing the mealie meal delivery, Musikavanhu sent a message to all ZANU PF councillors in his constituency lamenting the fact that nine tonnes of the commodity was sold to members of the public before he had laid his hands on them.
As Khupe's Sec General says it was perfectly constitutional (2016 amendment), Alex Magaisa who has in writing loudly claimed he was same level with Tsvangirai while working as his advisor, says Chamisa @nelsonchamisa 's appointment by Tsvangirai was illegal | WHO IS LYING?
Zimbabwe has recorded another COVID-19 positive case to bring the official total number of confirmed cases to 10.
In its coronavirus (COVID-19) update on 6 April, 2020, the Ministry of Health and Child Care said a 24-year-old-female resident of Harare who arrived from the United Kingdom two weeks ago has tested positive for the coronavirus and is clinically stable and recovering at home.
The statement by the Health Ministry reads:
The Ministry would like to report that today, the National Microbiology Reference Laboratory tested 13 samples. One of these tested positive for COVID-19.
Therefore, to date, Zimbabwe now has 10 confirmed cases, including one death.
The tenth patient is a 24-year-old-female resident of Harare who arrived from the United Kingdom two weeks ago.
The local Rapid Response Team visited her home after receiving an alert call to assess the family, and samples were taken for COVID-19 testing.
She is clinically stable and under self-isolation at home.
The Ministry would also like to report that all the 9 cases alive to date are being managed and recovering under self-isolation at home.
The local health care workers continue to monitor and provide essential clinical management and support for all the nine patients.
Additionally, Geospatial systems are being utilised to map all the known contacts of these cases for active contact tracing.
The Ministry continues to be on HIGH alert to the COVID-19 pandemic and would like to remind the nation that, the most effective ways to protect yourself and others against COVID-19 are to;
frequently clean your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub.
cover your nose and mouth with tissue paper or flexed elbow when coughing and sneezing.
maintain a distance of at least 1 meter from people who are coughing or sneezing.
avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
For assistance, please call the COVID-19 tollfree hotline number: 2019.
NewsDay|A ZANU PF official based in Mashonaland Central province was on Saturday taken to Bindura Magistrates Cours for allegedly calling on President Emmerson Mnangagwa to resign.
Goodman Musariri, who appeared before magistrate Moreblessing Makati, was granted $300 bail and remanded to April 22.
He stands accused of undermining the authority of the President.
The State led by Samson Chamunorwa alleged that on an unknown date, Musariri posted WhatsApp messages on a Zanu PF Mashonaland Central province group where he denounced Mnangagwa while endorsing Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga to take over.
“We agree that the likes of vaMnangagwa, who only has less than 18 years to live on this universe, must maximise his retirement time. After all, he has nothing to offer Zimbabwe except to loot it the more for 18 years,” one of the messages read.
“I recommend that General Chiwenga takes over and be at liberty to formulate a GNU [government of national unity] that will adopt meritocracy, pragmatism and honesty.
“Mnangagwa must resign or retire early and be given a golden handshake as constructive dismissal. He needs the maximum of 18 years that he is left with under this universe!!”
Another message read: “President vanoda kuti vasvike 2030 (he wants to get to 2030)? Thomas Mapfumo goes on to say ‘achida kunyanya kunge achiiteiko aisa nyika munzara yakadai kubva 2017 (what more can he offer he has impoverished the nation)??”
Own Correspondent|Information Deputy Minister, Energy Mutodi has attacked legendary musician Thomas Mapfumo for interfering in Zimbabwean politics which he is out of touch with in his stay in the United States of America.
Mapfumo rubbished last week’s Supreme Court judgment, which ruled that Nelson Chamisa was not legitimate leader of MDC.
“There’s no govt at all (in Zimbabwe), there is no rule of law. They say the courts are shut but then they suddenly open them for an MDC case. What type of ruling is that? Let us not play with people’s lives,” Mukanya, as he is popularly known by his fans, said.
Mutodi responded:
“Good music does not translate to good politics. I like Dr Thomas Tafirenyika Mapfumo’s music. He is excellent but he gets lost when it comes to politics,” Mutodi posted on Twitter.
“After witnessing the war and singing in support of the struggle, Mukanya is losing it all because of age.”
In a statement last night, President Mnangagwa said it was important for the banking sector to adapt their operations to the emergency situation spawned by the national lockdown designed to stop the spread of Covid-19.
The President’s directive comes at a time when people were struggling to access Diaspora remittances from relatives abroad.
“In view of the ongoing Covid-19-related national lockdown, and following concerns from users of money transfer services, I have now directed the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (Dr John Mangudya) to immediately address constraints around this essential financial service,” he said.
Central Bank governor John Mangudya has immediately complied.
Below is the statement from the RBZ:
PRESS STATEMENT ON PROVISION OF INTERNATIONAL REMITTANCE SERVICES BY MONEY TRANSFER AGENCIES DURING THE NATIONAL COVID-19 LOCKDOWN PERIOD
Further to His Excellency the President’s Directive of 6 April 2020 on the need to provide critical services to the public during the National Lockdown period, and in light of the feedback from the recipients of diaspora remittances, the Bank wishes to advise the public that the following additional services will be provid. by Money Transfer Agencies (MIAs) during the Lockdown Period as follows: –
• MTAs with branches operating in retail outlets shall, with effect from Wednesday the 8th of April 2020, operate daily within the timelines prescribed for opening of retail outlets or shops; and
• MTAs owned by banks and those with own banking halls and branches outside banks and retail outlets or shops, shall open for business three times a week, that is, on Tuesday to Thursday, between 0900 and 1 500hrs. To allow for operational adjustment, this directive takes effect from Wednesday the 8th of April 2020.
The decision in respect of the extension of the above services is to allow for the receipt of foreign currency remittances which cannot be transacted on any digital or electronic platforms.
In order to prevent and mitigate the spread of Covid- 19, MTAs shall be required to spread remittance payout access points and to strictly observe the social distancing guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health and Child Care and the World Health Organisation from time to time.
POLICE in Gwanda District have dispersed macimbi (mopane worm) harvesters who had flocked to the area despite the prevailing 21-day lockdown.
Scores of people from different areas had flocked to the district and set up camps at various locations over the past two weeks in search of mopane worms which are now in season.
Their presence was in violation of the lockdown order that came into effect last week on Monday requiring people to stay home.
In an interview yesterday, Matabeleland South provincial police spokesperson, Chief Inspector Philisani Ndebele said they had managed to disperse most of the crowds that had gathered in the district.
He said they would continue to monitor the areas to ensure compliance.
“We received reports that people were now gathered in search of mopane worms at a time when the President has announced a 21-day lockdown. These people were even there during the time when large gatherings had been banned. We went there last week as a team comprising the police, local government, Ministry of Health and Gwanda RDC,” he said.
“We engaged these people and told them to disperse and they complied. When we left most of them had gone and there were only a few left who were looking for transport to take them back to their homes. So far, we haven’t received another report but we will continue to monitor to ensure that we don’t have people gathering to harvest mopane worms for any other reason as that is against the law.”
Chief Insp Ndebele said they had also engaged plot holders to ensure that they do not entertain people intending to harvest macimbi as most of them had set up camps at their properties.
He said the majority of the people that had camped were from areas in Masvingo province. He said they had set their camps in different locations from Colleen Bawn Tollgate, West Nicholson right up to Makhado.
Gwanda District Development Coordinator, Ms Kiliboni Ndou said they went to the camps as the District Civil Protection Unit response team following reports from community members.
She said community members were concerned that the mopane worm harvesters could cause the spread of Covid-19 as they were in transit and were constantly in contact with a number of people.
Zanu-PF Matabeleland South provincial commissar, Cde Japhet Dube is one of the community members who raised concern as some of the mopane worm harvesters had set a camp on his farm.
“We are concerned as people from Gwanda as people coming from other districts and provinces have invaded our area and they have set up camps in search of mopane worms. Some of them have invaded my farm. With the prevailing Covid-19 we fear that having these people gathered and flocking the district will endanger us so could relevant authorities do something quickly,” he said.
During this time of the year scores of people from various districts flock to Gwanda and surrounding districts in search of mopane worms for sale.
President Mnangagwa recently announced a 21-day lockdown which is in its second week. During the period people have been ordered to remain in their homes and shops that do not sell essentials have been ordered to close.
The former advisor to late MDC president Mr Morgan Tsvangirai has suggested that his ex-boss in 2016 ignored advice on the illegality of the appointment of Mr Nelson Chamisa and Engineer Elias Mudzuri as his deputies.
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Commenting on the Supreme Court judgment made against current MDC leader Nelson Chamisa in an article “Critical Analysis of the Supreme Court Judgment” at the weekend, Alex Magaisa said Tsvangirai did not heed the advice given after appointing Chamisa and Eng Mudzuri.
Magaisa’s comment comes despite the fact that Tsvangirai did this using a clear constitutional amendment.
The MDC Constitution was changed 4 times between 2008 and 2016. In 2009, two amendments were approved to the effect that removed term limits on Tsvangirai who was supposed to step down by the year 2011.
In 2014, another amendment was effected which dethroned the party’s Secretary General of powers of succession (replacing the President).
In 2016, the MDC -T party changed the constitution again this time to give Tsvangirai powers to appoint deputies. Thokozani Khupe’s party would 2 years later remove this clause saying it created a one centre of power, resulting in a leadership dispute blamed for the split with Nelson Chamisa’s party. Khupe’s secretary-general, Nixon Nyikadzino has said the Khupe-led MDC-T has since amended the party constitution to do away with the one centre of power he says was abused by the late Tsvangirai.
“Also, we are simply giving back powers of constitutional amendments to the congress. We are simply ensuring that we do not have a one centre of power in the constitution of the MDC-T,” said Nyikadzino.
Magaisa whose analysis has been relied upon by the Emmerson Mnangagwa state media, commented criticising his own boss. He is not new to attacking his senior and in 2014, he loudly claimed he was same level with the man he worked for, Tsvangirai, and was paid a huge lumpsum including perks. (See his article reprinted below).
This time Magaisa now claims Tsvangirai’s appointment of two deputies, Nelson Chamisa and Elias Mudzuri was illegal, saying it was a clash of politics and law.
As Khupe's Sec General says it was perfectly constitutional (2016 amendment), Alex Magaisa who has in writing loudly claimed he was same level with Tsvangirai while working as his advisor, says Chamisa @nelsonchamisa 's appointment by Tsvangirai was illegal | WHO IS LYING?
Back then, he did not publicly criticise the move which Khupe’s party confirms was via a constitutional amendment now needing to be repealed
“Technically, it is difficult to fault the finding concerning the 2016 appointments. Questions were raised at the time of the appointments (including in this column) but the advice was not heeded. If supposing that a challenge had been successfully brought to court at the time, there is every chance that a court might have reversed the appointments,” writes Magaisa.
He continues saying:
“Those of us who raised caution in 2016 derive no pleasure at the turn of events. Another lesson is the problem of not challenging leaders when they are wrong.”
He says the outcome of the case brought to the fore the clash between law and politics.
“Any lawyer who has worked in politics or with politicians understands the difficulty of persuading politicians when laws stand in the way of political objectives. Politicians know they must follow the law, but they also know that their stock-in-trade is to make political decisions to drive political objectives.
“Advisers know that politicians must follow the law but they are also sensitive to the realities of political life. Sometimes decisions just have to be made.
“. . . As it has turned out, Tsvangirai’s decision was legally incorrect, as the courts have established, but if he were around today, he would probably still be sure that he took the right political decision. If you ask his many supporters, they also still believe it was the correct political move particularly given the direction that his would-be successors have taken since his death,” adds Magaisa.
“. . . Likewise, Chamisa’s ascendancy to the leadership may have been legally deficient as the courts have stated, but his multitude of supporters remain convinced that it was the right political move,” said Magaisa.
While Magaisa has focused on this, other scholars said there is no problem and no need for confusion. The South Africa based Legal expert Dr Tapiwa Shumba said a political party has its legs at the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission. Below was his full text:
By Dr Tapiwa Shumba | There is no reason for any confusion. It is the MDC trading politically as MDC Alliance. It’s been like that ever since. We were MDC trading as MDC-T and noone ever asked why everything about us was still MDC. Noone has ever seen an MDC-T constitution. We always celebrated MDC Anniversary and used MDC in our communications. It has always been MDC but MDC T started as far back as 2008 (before elections).
It’s a choice we make to connect to our history and traditions as we continue to renew, transform and grow on the other hand. It is the transacting name, which is the most relevant in Zimbabwe political context, that changes depending on the electoral market and dynamics. That’s why there is nothing trading as MDC currently. There is no MDC Councillor or MP. Many people don’t understand that MDC is now almost like our nickname or better still mutupo/totem in the Zim political context. Riri pachitupa now is MDC Alliance – it used to be MDC-T. Where our identity is requested for official reasons i.e ZEC and Parliament, Council we use the official name for the electoral cycle – now MDC Alliance. Hakuna chinhu chinonzi MDC kwese ikoko.
I say this because I see people asking. 1) Where is the MDC Alliance Consitution saka? (In fact you are not required to have any constitution in Zim). 2. Why did you celebrate 20 years Anniversary? 3. Why did you have 5th Congress? 4. Why are you stil using Harvest House HQ.
Until you understand that in Zimbabwe a Party only exists at ZEC, Parliament and Government you will continue to get confused about the MDC and MDC Alliance, the former being a street name at the latter being an official name. We will always officially transform to adapt to the political and electoral realities of the day but the soul will remain MDC, yet officially speaking, the MDC (our MDC) ceased to exist as an official electoral entity in 2008. The official MDC-T was abandoned when Thokozani Khupe abused it.
The transformation that takes place with the MDC in every electoral cycle is the fundamental reason why it is first class nonsense for anyone to say the Party must revert to a pre-electoral state. Pre-electoral state of the MDC are footsteps, hakuna chinhu, kunosara mutupo iwoyu unonzi MDC chete. That’s why there is this confusion, yet in truth, there is nothing new in the transformation of political parties. Consider this question – how old is ZANU-PF – and what is ZANU in all this – does ZANU-PF say it started in 1987 – but why do they claim and celebrate the 70s heroes and victories of ZANU when ZANU-PF started in 1987? Lastly, don’t be stupid.
There have been reports of police officers soliciting bribes at check points while controlling movement during the Covid-19 lockdown.
In a tweet, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Mr Nick Mangwana said police officers were reportedly soliciting for bribes during the Covid-19 operations, calling them “Risk Allowances”.
“(We are) getting a lot of calls during this #Lockdown Zim, so we are establishing a helpline to deal with non-clinical queries,” he said.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said anyone soliciting for a bribe should inform the police to ensure the arrest of corrupt police officers.
“Bribery is a serious offence and we do not condone corruption in our rank and file,” he said.
Asst Comm Nyathi said the police command will monitor the officers on the ground to curb such practices.
“All those found on the wrong side of the law, will be arrested,” he said.
There have been other problems between the public and police.
At the weekend, there was chaos at Lusaka Market in Highfield after police reportedly locked the farmers outside, with some farmers accusing the police of taking their money.
Asst Comm Nyathi appealed to the farmers who lost their money to report the matter to the Officer Commanding Harare South district or to the police provincial head for Harare.
“We urge all aggrieved farmers to come forward and make a police report,” he said.
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Professor Paul Mavima
AN estimated 100 homeless people in Harare have been moved to centres on the outskirts of the city as part of measures to contain the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic by ensuring this highly vulnerable group has shelter.
The people are being accommodated in Mt Hampden, Ruwa Rehabilitation Centre and Jamaica Inn.
Secretary for Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Mr Nick Mangwana confirmed the development on his twitter handle.
“As part of social protection of the vulnerable, Government through the Department of Social Services, moved hundreds of homeless males to Mt Hampden, dozens of boys living and working on the streets to Ruwa Rehabilitation Centre and females are accommodated at Jamaica Inn during the lockdown,” Mr Mangwana said.
The relocation of the homeless people is part of measures that have been adopted by Government to mitigate the plight of vulnerable groups.
Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Professor Paul Mavima also confirmed the development, adding that the homeless were at high risk of contracting Covid-19 since they lack sanitary resources required to fight the devastating disease.
“In Harare, we have established three centres where we are housing these homeless people so that they have somewhere they can call a home,” he said.
“We have identified a training institute for the Ministry of Youth in Mount Hampden where we have moved in those who are in families. At Ruwa Rehabilitation Centre we have taken in boys who are below 18.
“At Jamaica Inn along Mutare Road, we have taken in women above 18 and we are also going to put in girls. So, we have about 42 going to the boy’s facility, 45 coming in as families and six women at Jamaica Inn.”
Prof Mavima had told the Department of Social Welfare to look for more such facilities across the country to house the homeless.
The ministry was using its current budget, but would need more funding from Government since Covid-19 is a national health emergency.
Blankets, clothing and mattresses for the shelter homes are available and more are expected from the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra). Prohibited and smuggled goods, including blankets, are seized by Zimra and can be disposed of by auction or any approved way.
Said Prof Mavima: “We are taking the homeless people from the streets in the fight against Covid-19. We are doing something. We are using funds from our current budget and I know we will get something from Treasury soon since this is a national disaster. Homeless people in Bulawayo, Gweru, Mutare and across the country should be placed in shelters where they can be monitored.”
Government has set aside over $600 million to cover one million vulnerable households under a cash transfer programme for the next three months.
The funds will be distributed through the structures of the Department of Social Welfare.
Treasury has also provided $500 million to fight Covid-19 and is ready to attend to more requests.
A further $50 million was provided to Premier Service Medical Aid Society (PSMAS) to prepare for Covid-19 and to cater for the health requirements of civil servants who are the majority of the Society’’s members.
To enhance preparedness to fight coronavirus and guided by the United Nations Covid-19 Medical Supplies, Treasury has suspended duty and tax on various goods and services related to testing, protection, sterilisation, and other medical consumables.
Government has also unfrozen over 4 000 health sector posts and created an additional 200 medical posts with a view of scaling up the response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Covid-19 National Disaster Fund has also been established to enable well-wishers donate towards the fight against the disease.
Own Correspondent|Villagers from Gwanda South have raised an urgent SOS claiming that a strange malaria outbreak is wreaking havoc in the area leaving them believing that the malaria could be the deadly Coronavirus.
The villagers who spoke to ZimEye.com claim that just in the last week at least five people have succumbed to the strange disease which the local health centres insist to be malaria.
The villagers further claim that what raises their fears on Coronavirus are the symptoms that they see on all the people who have fallen ill to the alleged malaria.
“All the people who have been attacked by this disease have a very strong fever and are shivering and yet sweating at the same time,” said a villager in an anonymous tip off sent to ZimEye.com.
“The people also get a diarrhoea of a kind, lose appetite and complain of a sore throat which we have seen the media claim to be symptoms of the Coronavirus,” added the tip off.
The villagers also disclosed that the local health centres do not have a Coronavirus testing centre.
A senior opposition MDC official in Gwanda South confirmed the outbreak indicating that they been able to gather figures of affected persons from the District Medical Office.
“The office insists that the outbreak is a complicated malaria and have provided figures of the affected people so far,” said the MDC official who insisted on not being mentioned at this stage in fear of the new Coronavirus regulations.
“We are reliably informed that a total of 58 cases have been reported in the last two weeks and the figures we were provided with are as follows: GPH- 2 Manama- 6 Nhwali- 11 Sengezane- 5 West Nicholson- 4 Selonga – 5 Kafusi – 5 Gungwe – 5 Ntalale – 3 Collen Bawn – 1 Buvuma – 11. Total – 58,” the official revealed.
Officials in the Gwanda District Medical office would not immediately deny nor confirm the matter indicating that their bosses who were not available are the only ones authorised to speak to the press on the matter.
Malaria is however one of the leading public health challenges in Gwanda district. The district accounts for the second highest number of recorded malaria cases in Matabeleland South province according to Ministry of Health and Child Care statistics.
This story is still being developed as frantic efforts are being made to get an official comment from the Ministry of Health and Child Care in Harare.
Primary and Secondary Education Minister Cain Mathema has dismissed online reports stating that schools will reopen on April 28.
A report on an online publication quoted Minister Mathema saying schools would reopen early following their premature closure over the Covid 19 pandemic.
“There is nothing like that. I work on instructions from the President and so far he has not directed that schools reopen early.
“We are in the midst of fighting the pandemic so why should we rush to reopen the schools early,” Minister Mathema said.
Schools and institutions of higher learning were closed on March 19 as a precautionary measure to forestall the spread of Covid-19 following a directive from the President.
At the time of the closure, President Mnangagwa observed that it was of paramount importance to protect the lives learners.
The ministry has entered into a partnership with the Higherlife Foundation to offer free online educational material to learners during the ongoing lockdown.
Learners are accessing through the Ruzivo platform, www.rdl.co.zw.
Higherlife Foundation is a philanthropic organisation founded by Strive and Tsitsi Masiyiwa.
The country is on a 21-day lockdown that will end on April 19.
State Media|The Zimbabwe Teachers Association (Zimta) has proposed the postponement of the June and November 2020 examinations owing to the failure by teachers to travel to their nearest centres to administer the registration process because of the 21-day lockdown.
Zimta, an association representing over 40 000 teachers in Zimbabwe, wants an informed analysis of the impact of Covid-19 to be done before pupils sit for examinations.
The teachers’ body is calling on Government to provide Covid-19 testing kits in all schools ahead of the Second Term to curtail the spread of the deadly virus.
“Zimta is calling on the Government of Zimbabwe to consider postponing the sitting of June and November examinations until a well-informed analysis of the impact of Covid-19 has been done.
“As educators, we stand ready to work with the Government of Zimbabwe in combating and eradicating the Covid-19 pandemic amongst educators, learners and parents.
“Educators look forward to the Government’s support in achieving this vital goal,” said Zimta in a statement yesterday.
Zimsec recently said exams were going ahead unless a directive came from Government.
Zimta said during the lockdown, it had documented complaints against Zimsec’s administration, whose directive to teachers appeared to work against the lockdown regulation.
The association added that some school heads were demanding that teachers travel to school offices to attend disciplinary hearings.
Teachers, said Zimta, were under distress from the effects of Covid-19, just like many citizens.
Some schools have since adopted distance learning to fight the spread of coronavirus.
However, there are fears that some teachers might lose their jobs and Zimta wants Government to ensure employment was guaranteed.
“It is critical for Government to provide and protect qualified teachers who will remain key ingredients to the provision of quality public education in Zimbabwe,” reads the statement.
President Mnangagwa shows Vice Presidents Dr Constantino Chiwenga (centre) and Kembo Mohadi a consignment of sanitisers donated by the Latter Day Saints Church. The donation included face masks and other protective equipment most of which was directed to the police.
President Mnangagwa received two consignments of protective equipment and an offer to drill two hospital boreholes with police now joining health staff and also being allocated donated masks and gloves.
The latest donations were received by the President at State House in Harare with Vice Presidents Dr Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi present.
President Mnangagwa said some of the face masks that are part of the donation have already been allocated to the Zimbabwe Republic Police to ensure officers’ safety while at work.
“There are sanitisers for hand washing and spraying buses and streets in town, medical gowns, masks and gloves some of which we have already given to the police,” said President Mnangagwa.
Almost all Harare traffic officers on the roads were yesterday seen wearing white gloves and face masks after the President intervened. There was a public outcry over police’s lack of protective gear in the first week of the lockdown, with many worried about the safety of both the officer and the public they dealt with.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi hailed President Mnangagwa for the gesture, saying the President availed substantial quantities of protective equipment to the police.
“The majority of police officers in Harare now have the equipment and the distribution is cascading to other provinces to ensure all of them get at least gloves, masks and sanitisers,” he said.
Asst Comm Nyathi said Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe and police Commissioner General Godfrey Matanga were also sourcing more equipment for the officers.
“As we speak, there are several efforts being made by Comm Gen Matanga and Minister Kazembe to ensure that officers have the requisite protective equipment.”
Social media reports last week showed police officers in lorries and pick-up trucks, at times numbering over 50, with no protective clothing. In some videos people were questioning whether or not the police were immune to Covid-19.
State Media|The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has been directed to ensure that money transfer service systems are working efficiently and are accessible to the public, especially for processing of financial international remittances.
In a statement last night, President Mnangagwa said it was important for the banking sector to adapt their operations to the emergency situation spawned by the national lockdown designed to stop the spread of Covid-19.
The President’s directive comes at a time when people were struggling to access Diaspora remittances from relatives abroad.
“In view of the ongoing Covid-19-related national lockdown, and following concerns from users of money transfer services, I have now directed the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (Dr John Mangudya) to immediately address constraints around this essential financial service,” he said.
“The environment arising from the national lockdown has increased our people’s dependence on remittances, which also have the added advantage of reaching directly the most marginalised members of our nation.
“Because of the necessary national lockdown, livelihoods in the informal sector have been disrupted, thus forcing many households to depend on the support from their loved ones abroad. It is thus critical for our financial service institutions to adapt their operations to the new emergency situation.”
International remittances are important in improving Zimbabwe’s foreign currency position.
Zimbabwe received US$635 million in Diaspora remittances last year, up 2,6 percent from US$619 million that came through in 2018.
President Mnangagwa paid tribute to citizens abroad who continue to demonstrate abundant compassion by assisting their families back home through various interventions, including financial remittances.
He also saluted Zimbabweans for exercising self-discipline during the national lockdown, adding that the road to completing the 21-day national lockdown was long, but necessary.
Paul Nyathi|Douglas Mwonzora on Sunday told state media that he has officially taken charge of the opposition party’s affairs and locked up the party’s headquarters, Morgan Richard Tsvangirai (MRT) House.
This followed a Supreme Court ruling that declared Thokozani Khupe the legitimate leader of the opposition and that the party should go back to its 2014 structures before calling for a congress in 90 days.
Mwonzora, who reverted to being MDC-T secretary-general, said he would reopen the offices after the 21-day lockdown.
“I am the secretary-general and I am in charge of the day-to-day running of the party. I have closed the party offices up until the end of the 21-day lockdown. We have to follow the law,” said Mwonzora.
Responding to alleged threats from Mr Nelson Chamisa’s close allies who are not happy with the Supreme Court ruling, Mr Mwonzora said he has only learnt about them through social media.
“We just read about it on social media. It is just political posturing.”
However, MDC-Alliance secretary-general Charlton Hwende insisted that he was in charge of the day-to-day running of Morgan Richard Tsvangirai House.
“Mr Mwonzora is not responsible for the administration of the MDC-Alliance. He is in charge of the MDC-T that is led by Khupe. I am at the MRT House now and still in charge directing our Covid-19 strategy and intervention,” said Hwende.
THE National Sports Stadium has better chances of being cleared to host international games ahead of Barbourfields Stadium, as the Bulawayo City Council-owned facility still needs enormous work to meet required minimum standards.
In their report, Caf inspectors Derek Blackense and former Bafana Bafana legend Mark Fish, who were in the country last month, indicated that both facilities fall short of expectations and special attention should be given to the pitch, floodlight, stands and dressing rooms.
Caf made it clear that bucket seats are mandatory for both facilities if they are to convince the continental body to clear the stadiums for the 2021 Afcon qualifiers and 2022 World Cup qualifiers.
Barbourfields Stadium, according to Caf, needs considerable renovation works ranging from the outer part of the stadium to the dressing rooms.
The dressing rooms were condemned as “too small” and Caf wants them expanded to accommodate seats and lockers for at least 25 players.
A massage table, tactical board and five hot and cold showers must also be installed to be approved.
Media facilities at both venues failed to meet the mark.
The Barbourfields Stadium structure presents a challenge in expanding dressing rooms, meaning architects have to come up with complex ways of modifying the dressing rooms.
Zifa has also approached the Government through the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) to help expedite renovations at Barbourfields Stadium and National Sports Stadium to meet the required standards.- State media
POLICE have arrested more than 2 100 people for violating lockdown regulations while three officers have appeared in court for allegedly assaulting residents in Victoria Falls with chains and batons, accusing them of flouting shutdown requirements.
The country is under a 21-day lockdown which started last week on Monday to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
The World Health Organisation has said the global pandemic has infected more than 1,2 million people worldwide with more than 70 000 of them succumbing to the deadly virus.
Zimbabwe has tested 320 for the virus and nine tested positive while one patient has died.
Under the country’s lockdown measures, all citizens are expected to stay at home, except for essential movements to seek health services, buy food, medicines, other essentials and critical services.
The military has been roped in to complement the police to ensure that the public strictly abides to lockdown regulations that include maintaining social distances and self-isolating.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the defiance has seen 2 191 people being arrested for lockdown violations since President Mnangagwa issued the stay-at-home order.
“The number includes some people who were violating the Liquor Act, operating businesses that are not exempted, illegally transporting members of the public without being cleared, loitering without valid reasons and various crimes under the Miscellaneous Act,” said Asst Comm Nyathi., “What is apparent is that the public is taking for granted the messages that are being sent to prevent the spread of Covid-19. There are those who think that because the virus has not seriously impacted on the country they will not be affected.
They are not observing social distancing and self-isolation as prescribed to prevent the spread of the virus.
We encourage them to heed the Government’s measures to prevent the spread of the virus.”
Asst Comm Nyathi said police have scaled up awareness campaigns to sensitise the public to adhere to Government’s measures.
“While we are enforcing the law by arresting those violating regulations, we are also involved in social responsibility programmes where we educate the public about the need to observe the coronavirus prevention measures.
We have also partnered with local authorities that are involved in fumigation of public places.
While local authorities provide fumigation materials we provide vehicles used to implement the actual process,” said Asst Comm Nyathi.
Meanwhile, three policemen who allegedly assaulted residents with chains and batons in Victoria Falls accusing them of defying the Government order to stay indoors have been charged with assault.
Emmanuel Anesu Buzhiwa (30) of Mkhosana and Givemore Masokose (26) residing at ZRP Victoria Falls Camp were not asked to each plead to five counts of assault before Victoria Falls resident magistrate Ms Lindiwe Maphosa yesterday.
Jimson Zano (29) of Aerodrome appeared separately before the same court for two counts of assault following incidents where the three constables, allegedly beat up residents in Mkhosana and Chinotimba suburbs last Friday for being outdoors.- State media
POLICE have arrested more than 2 100 people for violating lockdown regulations while three officers have appeared in court for allegedly assaulting residents in Victoria Falls with chains and batons, accusing them of flouting shutdown requirements.
The country is under a 21-day lockdown which started last week on Monday to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
The World Health Organisation has said the global pandemic has infected more than 1,2 million people worldwide with more than 70 000 of them succumbing to the deadly virus.
Zimbabwe has tested 320 for the virus and nine tested positive while one patient has died.
Under the country’s lockdown measures, all citizens are expected to stay at home, except for essential movements to seek health services, buy food, medicines, other essentials and critical services.
The military has been roped in to complement the police to ensure that the public strictly abides to lockdown regulations that include maintaining social distances and self-isolating.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the defiance has seen 2 191 people being arrested for lockdown violations since President Mnangagwa issued the stay-at-home order.
“The number includes some people who were violating the Liquor Act, operating businesses that are not exempted, illegally transporting members of the public without being cleared, loitering without valid reasons and various crimes under the Miscellaneous Act,” said Asst Comm Nyathi., “What is apparent is that the public is taking for granted the messages that are being sent to prevent the spread of Covid-19. There are those who think that because the virus has not seriously impacted on the country they will not be affected.
They are not observing social distancing and self-isolation as prescribed to prevent the spread of the virus.
We encourage them to heed the Government’s measures to prevent the spread of the virus.”
Asst Comm Nyathi said police have scaled up awareness campaigns to sensitise the public to adhere to Government’s measures.
“While we are enforcing the law by arresting those violating regulations, we are also involved in social responsibility programmes where we educate the public about the need to observe the coronavirus prevention measures.
We have also partnered with local authorities that are involved in fumigation of public places.
While local authorities provide fumigation materials we provide vehicles used to implement the actual process,” said Asst Comm Nyathi.
Meanwhile, three policemen who allegedly assaulted residents with chains and batons in Victoria Falls accusing them of defying the Government order to stay indoors have been charged with assault.
Emmanuel Anesu Buzhiwa (30) of Mkhosana and Givemore Masokose (26) residing at ZRP Victoria Falls Camp were not asked to each plead to five counts of assault before Victoria Falls resident magistrate Ms Lindiwe Maphosa yesterday.
Jimson Zano (29) of Aerodrome appeared separately before the same court for two counts of assault following incidents where the three constables, allegedly beat up residents in Mkhosana and Chinotimba suburbs last Friday for being outdoors.- State media
UNITED States of America-based former Highlanders and national team captain Thulani “Biya” Ncube says he is safe, but extremely frightened by the Covid-19 pandemic that has so far infected more than 340 000 Americans. The US has recorded about 10 000 deaths due to the pandemic.
In Indiana, where the Highlanders’ legend is based, 4 500 people have been infected, with the death toll standing at 127 as of yesterday and this is what’s giving Ncube, the MC United junior football coach, sleepless nights.
“Look this is no mean play; this virus is exterminating humankind and it’s really scary. I am safe for now, staying at home as ordered by authorities,” said Ncube.
Ncube, who was part of the trailblazing Highlanders’ squad that had many talented players such as Dazzy Kapenya, Bekithemba Ndlovu, Gift Lunga Jr, Sizabantu Khoza, Blessing Gumiso, the late Amon Chimbalanga, Zenzo Moyo, Thabani Masawi, Masauso Phiri, Alexander Phiri and Melusi “Mabaleka” Sibanda, among others, said he spends his time at home researching and exercising to remain fit.
“Since this pandemic requires people to stay at home, I am likewise doing the same. At home I watch television and also do some workouts in my gym to stay fit.
This has been my template ever since the pandemic became a global concern,” he said.
Ncube also runs an academy in Bulawayo, Biya and Friends, that caters for talented youngsters both boys and girls.
The academy plays in the Zifa Bulawayo Province League.- State media
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola’s mother died after contracting COVID-19, the club announced Monday. She was 82.
“The Manchester City family are devastated to report the death today of Pep’s mother Dolors Sala Carrió in Manresa, Barcelona, after contracting coronavirus,” Manchester City wrote in a public statement.
The 49-year-old Guardiola donated more than $100,000 to aid the fight against coronavirus in Spain last month and appeared on a team video urging fans to stay at home.
Spain has been badly affected by the pandemic with more than 13,000 deaths reported. Manchester City’s rival, Manchester United, sent condolences on Twitter, writing:
“Everyone at Manchester United is saddened to hear this terrible news.
We send our heartfelt condolences to Pep and his family. #ACityUnited.”- USA Today
