GREAT DYKE NEWS

GREAT DYKE NEWS

5/26/2025, 10:54:50 AM

*GREAT DYKE NEWS BULLETIN | 26 MAY 2025* HEADLINES President Mnangagwa Marks Africa Day with Call for Reparations and Return of Cultural Heritage Zimbabwe Pavilion Shines at Expo 2025 Osaka, Attracting Global Interest President Signs Controversial Radio Licence Law for Motorists Toddler Drowns in Open Well in Ushewekunze Two Murder Cases Under Investigation After Bodies Found in Dams and Rivers Trabablas Interchange Opens to Traffic This Week Trump Extends EU Trade Talks After Threatening 50% Tariff North Korea Arrests Shipyard Officials After Warship Launch Mishap LOCAL NEWS President Emmerson Mnangagwa has echoed the African Union’s call for reparative justice as Zimbabwe joins the rest of the continent in commemorating Africa Day. Speaking in a message marking the occasion, Mnangagwa emphasized the need to redress historical injustices and reclaim Africa’s dignity and heritage. “As we celebrate this year’s Africa Day, we stand united in our shared commitment to justice, equality, and the dignity of all people of Africa and African descent,” said the President. This year’s commemorations come as the African Union intensifies its call for reparations for colonialism and slavery, as well as the return of African cultural artifacts and human remains held in Western institutions. Mnangagwa condemned the looting of cultural heritage during colonial rule, describing it as a desecration of Africa’s legacy, and called for the urgent repatriation of artifacts and remains. Africa Day, marked annually on May 25, commemorates the founding of the Organization of African Unity in 1963 and stands as a symbol of African unity and liberation. In other news, President Mnangagwa has signed into law the Broadcasting Services Amendment Act (No. 2 of 2025), which now requires motorists to pay for a valid ZBC radio licence before renewing their vehicle licences or insurance. The law, gazetted on May 23, sets the licence fee at US$30 per quarter or US$120 annually. If fully implemented, the law could net the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation as much as US$144 million annually from the estimated 1.2 million registered vehicles. The legislation has sparked widespread criticism, with motorists questioning the fairness of mandatory payment regardless of radio usage. INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT The much-anticipated Trabablas Interchange, a US$88 million project located at the busy junction of Simon Mazorodze Road, Chitungwiza Road and High Glen Road in Harare, is set to officially open to traffic this Friday. Replacing the outdated Mbudzi roundabout, the state-of-the-art structure is expected to ease congestion and boost trade and travel efficiency. The project, launched in January 2022, is part of the Second Republic’s infrastructure push under Vision 2030 to transform Zimbabwe into an upper middle-income economy. President Mnangagwa is expected to commission the interchange during a high-profile ceremony. EXPO 2025 OSAKA Zimbabwe is turning heads at Expo 2025 Osaka with a vibrant pavilion that has been described as a “positive international story.” Information Permanent Secretary Nick Mangwana, who toured the site this week, praised the setup for presenting Zimbabwe as investment-ready and full of opportunity. “The interest here, particularly in our tourism offerings like the majestic Victoria Falls, Great Zimbabwe, and the Nanda Mountains, is very strong,” said Mangwana. The pavilion, themed “Beyond Limits”, highlights opportunities in tourism, mining, agriculture, and technology. Zimbabwe aims to increase tourist arrivals by 15% annually and attract more investment through its global rebranding efforts. CRIME & COURTS A tragic incident occurred in Ushewekunze on May 23, where a one-year-five-month-old girl, Anna Taibva, drowned in an open well. According to police, the child had been playing near the well while her mother was watering the garden. Authorities have urged close supervision of minors near water sources. Investigations are ongoing. In Goromonzi, police are investigating the suspected murder of Nelson Kaingidza (34), whose body was found floating in Hunyani Dam at Maikoro Farm. He had been missing since May 19. Injuries suggest foul play. In a separate case, Shepherd Mashava (33) was found dead in the Mwarazi River in Inyati on the same day. He had reportedly been assaulted days earlier in a dispute over braai meat. Police are appealing for information in both cases. REGIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS In the United States, President Donald Trump has extended trade talks with the European Union to July 9 after a phone call with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Trump had threatened to impose 50% tariffs on EU goods by June 1, frustrated by slow negotiations. A 20% tariff announced last month was reduced to 10% to allow further talks. Trump argues tariffs protect U.S. jobs, but economists warn they could hurt consumers and global markets. The EU has threatened €113 billion in retaliatory tariffs if negotiations collapse. In Asia, North Korea has arrested three senior officials after a new 5,000-tonne destroyer tipped over during its launch at the Chongjin shipyard. Leader Kim Jong Un called the incident “a criminal act of negligence.” Satellite images showed the warship lying on its side, partially on land. While state media downplayed the damage, investigations are ongoing, and further disciplinary action is expected. ADVERTISEMENT M.I.S Borehole Drilling Company – your trusted partner for drilling, flushing, deepening, and surveys. Visit us at Shop Number 19, Robert Mugabe Street, Zvishavane or call 0773 514 103 / 0715 397 320. M.I.S Borehole Drilling – drilling solutions you can trust! WRAP-UP That’s all for now from Great Dyke News 24. For these and more stories, visit www.greatdykenews24.co.zw and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), and LinkedIn.

GREAT DYKE NEWS

5/20/2025, 9:51:13 AM

🟡 *GREAT DYKE NEWS WHATSAPP BULLETIN – 20 MAY 2025* 🟡 _Powered by www.greatdykenews24.co.zw – Stay informed. Stay ahead._ 📌 *HEADLINES* * *ZimAlloys Deepens Community Ties as Chrome Mining Expands in Insiza-Dolo* * *EU Envoy Urges Investment in Zimbabwe, Citing Positive Trade Momentum* * *Gokwe Man Arrested for Alleged Murder of 4-Month-Old Stepdaughter* * *Tanzania President Warns Kenyan Activists Against Interference* * *Shava Appointed to Lead Revival of Shabanie and Mashaba Mines* * *Silobela Murders: Police Arrest Six, One Suspect on the Run* * *Gokwe Man Arrested for Alleged Murder of 4-Month-Old Stepdaughter* * *South Africa to Appeal Acquittal of Nigerian Pastor Timothy Omotoso* ------------------------------- 🟣 *ZimAlloys Deepens Community Ties as Chrome Mining Expands in Insiza-Dolo* ZimAlloys, under Kuvimba Mining House, has expanded chrome mining operations in Insiza-Dolo and held a Community Engagement Day bringing together traditional leaders, locals, and officials. Residents raised concerns on health, water, roads, and education. General Manager Dalindyebo Miso-Mbele assured locals: “We heard your concerns and are committed to fulfilling your wishes.” ZimAlloys pledged to backfill pits and reforest mined zones. A motorcycle was donated to the community. Chief Chizungu welcomed the move, praising the government's pro-investor stance and calling for respect of local customs. 🔵 *EU Envoy Urges Investment in Zimbabwe, Citing Positive Trade Momentum* EU Ambassador Jobst von Kirchmann says now is the time to invest in Zimbabwe, citing growing confidence and business traction. Speaking at the EU-Zimbabwe Business Forum in Harare with over 250 companies attending, he revealed progress in talks to deepen the EU-Zim trade agreement. “It’s not blind optimism… The EU and Zimbabwe are diving in,” he said. The updated deal will streamline trade and bolster local product protection. Zimbabwean firms already enjoy duty-free access to the EU market. 🔴 *Gokwe Man Arrested for Alleged Murder of 4-Month-Old Stepdaughter* Police in Gokwe have arrested Last Maphosa (30) over the suspected murder of his stepdaughter. Maphosa, who stayed with his 18-year-old wife Princess Muchenje, took the baby to Kambasha Centre and later returned without her. He claimed she was left with a relative but later brought her back unresponsive. Princess discovered the child was dead while trying to breastfeed. Maphosa was arrested and appeared in court on 14 May, remanded in custody to 28 May 2025. Investigations are ongoing. Police are appealing for information. 🌍 *Tanzania President Warns Kenyan Activists Against Interference* Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has condemned Kenyan activists for “meddling” after their deportation during the court hearing of opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who faces treason charges. She warned them not to bring "chaos" from Kenya. The move has alarmed human rights groups, fearing a clampdown ahead of Tanzania’s elections in October. 🟢 *Shava Appointed to Lead Revival of Shabanie and Mashaba Mines* In a decisive step to revive Shabanie and Mashaba Mines, the government has appointed Munashe Shava as administrator under a 24-month reconstruction order. The mines have been idle since the early 2000s. Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi confirmed the appointment under the Insolvent Companies Act. Shava is known for reviving Hwange Colliery and improving ZCDC operations. 🔶 *Silobela Murders: Police Arrest Six, One Suspect on the Run* Silobela has been rocked by two gruesome murders: Ernest Machisa (67) was found stabbed at Gwetu Business Centre. Nkulumo Nyathi (27) was assaulted with knobkerries and bricks at Dhlamini Tavern and later died. Six suspects have been arrested: 4 for Machisa’s death: Petro & Kwanele Ndini, Thulani Sibanda, Michael Ngwenya. 2 for Nyathi’s death: Sipho Maseko, Thembani Landu. One suspect, Lovemore Talika Mhlanga (21), is still on the run. Police are appealing for leads. 🔺 *South Africa to Appeal Acquittal of Nigerian Pastor Timothy Omotoso* SA authorities will appeal the acquittal of Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso, cleared of 32 charges including rape. Despite fleeing to Nigeria after his acquittal, the National Prosecuting Authority insists the appeal will proceed. Omotoso was caught on video leaving OR Tambo International Airport wearing a hoodie and sunglasses. 📢 Advert: M.I.S Borehole Drilling Company – For drilling, flushing, deepening, and installations, visit Shop 19, Robert Mugabe Street, Zvishavane, or call 0773 514 103 / 0715 397 320. ✅ M.I.S Borehole Drilling – Solutions you can trust! 📰 Catch all these stories and more on our website: 🌐 www.greatdykenews24.co.zw 📲 Follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, and join our WhatsApp Channel for updates straight to your phone!

GREAT DYKE NEWS

5/27/2025, 10:21:18 AM

*Warriors Squad for the June friendlies vs Burkina Faso and Niger.*

GREAT DYKE NEWS

5/26/2025, 11:38:43 AM

*STRANGE BUT TRUE!* Somewhere in Africa… A pastor attempted to turn water into wine — but ended up serving his congregation nothing more than a watery sermon! 🍷💦 Eyewitnesses say the self-proclaimed “modern-day miracle worker” boldly prayed over a bucket of water during a Sunday service, hoping to recreate Jesus’ first miracle. Sadly, after a dramatic build-up, nothing changed — except the disappointed looks on his followers’ faces! Locals say they still got “spiritual intoxication”… but it wasn’t from any wine!

GREAT DYKE NEWS

5/19/2025, 7:43:37 AM

*AM NEWS BULLETIN 19 MAY 2025* • Firm Gold Prices Almost Double Caledonia’s Profits to US$26.9 Million • Health Minister Engages Parirenyatwa Staff Over Grievances • Zhombe Murder: Two Arrested After Fatal Bar Fight • Kenya's Ex-Justice Minister Deported from Tanzania Ahead of Tundu Lissu Case ------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------ Strong global gold prices have nearly doubled Caledonia Mining Corporation’s Q1 profits to US$26.9 million, reflecting a 48% gross margin. The surge was fueled by a 42% jump in average gold prices to US$2,896/oz and a 46% revenue increase to US$56.2 million, up from US$38.5 million in Q1 2024. CEO Mark Learmonth credited the results to resilient operations and strategic management, noting growth plans at Bilboes and Motapa, and continued investment at Blanket Mine remain top priorities for 2025. Net profit attributable to shareholders rose nearly sixfold to US$8.9 million, while adjusted earnings per share climbed to 58.5 cents from 9.7 cents. Although on-mine costs rose 12.9% to US$1,202/oz due to increased labour and energy expenses, strong gold prices offset the impact. Cash from operations more than doubled to US$13.3 million, while net debt narrowed to US$4.6 million. The US$22.35 million solar plant sale in April further boosted Caledonia’s net cash position to US$18.6 million. ------------------------------------------------ Health and Child Care Minister Dr Douglas Mombeshora visited Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals in Harare to engage directly with staff, assess conditions, and hear concerns firsthand. Speaking after the visit, Dr Mombeshora said his decision was prompted by reports of unresolved grievances from staff, particularly nurses. “I received reports about certain grievances from the nursing community here... but I felt communication was lacking,” he said. Emphasizing an open-door policy, the minister stated he chose to engage with staff directly, regardless of rank, to understand their issues without filters. “It’s not that I didn’t trust what I was told, but I wanted to hear it from the nurses themselves.” Dr Mombeshora met with the nurses who had raised the concerns and described the conversation as “very open” and the grievances as “very genuine.” He outlined the main issues raised, which included: • Inadequate salaries and allowances • Transport and accommodation difficulties • Poor working conditions The minister said efforts are underway to address these issues, particularly by reviewing allowances to help staff better support their families. ------------------------------------------------ M.I.S Borehole Drilling Company is your trusted solution for drilling, flushing, deepening, and surveying installations. Visit us at Shop Number 19, Robert Mugabe Street, Zvishavane, or call 0773 514 103 or 0715 397 320. MIS Borehole Drilling – drilling solutions you can trust! ------------------------------------------------ We Turn to Crime & Courts Where – Zimbabwe Republic Police have confirmed the arrest of two men in connection with the murder of Nkululeko Mpofu (45), which occurred at Mavule Shopping Centre in Zhombe on 16 May 2025 around 7:30 PM. According to ZRP Midlands spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, Mpofu was reportedly drinking at Mabengwani Bar when the two suspects entered. A dispute over undisclosed past grudges escalated into a fight, during which one of the suspects allegedly stabbed Mpofu with an Okapi knife. Mpofu was rushed to Zhombe Mission Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. The suspects, identified as Njabulo Moyo (21) and Progress Moyo (35) of Village Mbekiswa under Chief Ntabeni, Zhombe, were arrested following police investigations. They are expected to appear in court soon. Police have urged the public to resolve disputes peacefully and avoid violence. ------------------------------------------------ And In Regional & International News - Kenya’s former Justice Minister Martha Karua says she was deported from Tanzania after being held and interrogated for hours, allegedly to block her from attending the court case of Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu. Karua, along with lawyer Gloria Kimani and activist Lynn Ngugi, had flown in to observe Lissu’s trial. Her party, the People’s Liberation Party (PLP), condemned the deportation as politically motivated. Tanzanian authorities have not commented. Lissu, leader of the main opposition Chadema party, faces treason charges and cannot seek bail. He was arrested in April after staging a rally under the slogan "No Reforms, No Election". His party has since been barred from contesting the October polls for refusing to sign a government-imposed code of conduct. Rights groups have criticized growing repression ahead of the elections. Chadema calls the charges against Lissu false and politically driven. Karua, a vocal advocate for democracy in East Africa, has also represented Uganda’s Kizza Besigye in a similar case. President Samia Suluhu Hassan, once praised for opening up political space, is now facing criticism that Tanzania is sliding back into authoritarianism. The ruling CCM party is expected to retain power in the upcoming polls. //////////////////////////////////////////////// That’s all for now on Great Dyke News. For these and other stories, visit our website - www.greatdykenews24.co.zw and follow our digital platforms.

GREAT DYKE NEWS

5/27/2025, 10:06:25 AM

🗞️ *GREAT DYKE NEWS BULLETIN – May 27, 2025 HEADLINES*: • *Karo Platinum Makes Progress, Eyes $165 Million Boost* • *Wheat Planting Urgency as May 31 Deadline Nears* • *Labour Court Set to Welcome New Judges* • *Ghana Embassy in U.S. Temporarily Shut Over Visa Scam* • *Minister Chitando Vows to End Irresponsible Mining Practices in 2025* • *ZMF, Govt Raise Alarm Over Rampant Illegal Chrome Mining in Great Dyke* • *Filabusi Baby Murder Shocks Community* • *Four Die in Masvingo Road Crash* • *Man Detained After Car Ploughs into Pedestrians During Liverpool FC Parade* ----------------------------------------- 🔹 *Karo Platinum Makes Progress, Eyes $165 Million Boost* Karo Platinum, a subsidiary of Tharisa, has announced that all earthworks have been completed at its new mining site in Ngezi. The company is now in advanced discussions to raise $165 million in funding to bring the long-awaited project to completion. Managing Director Bernard Pryor said that approximately $140 million has already been spent on development. “We are in the contracting phase for mining operations, and tenders have already gone out,” he revealed. Tharisa’s Financial Director Andrew Henwood added that negotiations with African banks are progressing, and a gold streaming agreement could contribute up to $100 million in funding. Once operational, the mine will produce an estimated 226,000 ounces of platinum annually, making it Zimbabwe’s third-largest producer after Zimplats and Unki. 🔹 *Wheat Planting Urgency as May 31 Deadline Nears* The Ministry of Agriculture has issued an urgent call for farmers to complete wheat planting by the May 31 deadline, citing increased risk of frost and early rains that could severely affect yields if planting is delayed. Permanent Secretary Professor Obert Jiri emphasized that although harvesting of summer maize crops has been slowed by cooler weather, government support in the form of seed, fertilizers, fuel, dryers, and electricity is being provided. “We urge all farmers to expedite wheat planting before the month ends. Every day counts,” said Jiri. Wheat is a strategic crop for food security in Zimbabwe, and the country is targeting a significant increase in output this season to cut reliance on imports. --------------------- 📢 *ADVERT* 💧 M.I.S Borehole Drilling Company Are you in need of clean and reliable water access? Look no further! M.I.S Borehole Drilling Company specializes in: • Borehole Drilling • Flushing • Deepening • Site Surveying & Installation 📍 Visit us at Shop Number 19, Robert Mugabe Street, Zvishavane 📞 Call: 0773 514 103 or 0715 397 320 ✅ M.I.S – Drilling Solutions You Can Trust! ----------------------------- 🔹 *Labour Court Set to Welcome New Judges* The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has begun public interviews in Harare to fill eight vacant positions at the Labour Court. The move is part of efforts to strengthen the judiciary's ability to manage the increasing volume of labour disputes arising from economic challenges and workplace conflicts. Chief Justice Luke Malaba is presiding over the interviews, which began today with 13 of the 27 shortlisted candidates undergoing assessments. Among those being interviewed are Innocent Bepura and Bianca Makwande, both experienced legal professionals. The public interviews are in line with constitutional requirements for transparency and merit-based appointments, and are expected to conclude by the end of the week. 🔹 *Ghana Embassy in U.S. Temporarily Shut Over Visa Scam* Ghana's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has shut down its embassy in Washington, D.C., following the discovery of a large-scale visa fraud scheme allegedly run by locally recruited staff. Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa disclosed that for five years, applicants were directed to an unofficial website where they were charged exorbitant fees not sanctioned by the government. The proceeds were reportedly pocketed by the embassy staff involved. All embassy employees have been recalled pending investigations, and criminal charges are likely to follow. The Ghanaian government has apologised to affected applicants and assured a swift resolution of the matter. 💬 *QUOTE OF THE DAY* *"A nation that destroys its soils destroys itself." – Franklin D. Roosevelt* 🔹 *Minister Chitando Vows to End Irresponsible Mining Practices in 2025* Mines and Mining Development Minister Winston Chitando has vowed to crack down on reckless mining operations that are damaging the environment and harming local communities. “There is a lot of mining taking place in a manner that is irresponsible—and it has to be stopped,” Chitando said during a recent media briefing. “The environment and the community should be happy, not sad. The moment they are sad, there is something wrong.” He stressed that 2025 should mark a turning point: “This year, we have to sort it out once and for all.” His remarks come in the wake of increased public pressure over the unregulated activities of some artisanal and small-scale miners, especially in the Great Dyke region. 🔹 *ZMF, Govt Raise Alarm Over Rampant Illegal Chrome Mining in Great Dyke* The Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) and the government have expressed grave concern over the growing wave of illegal chrome mining in the Great Dyke, particularly in areas such as Impinge, Bigdell, Mvurwi, Amazon, and Guruve. ZMF president Henrietta Rushwaya said even licensed miners have joined the illegal rush, operating beyond their claim boundaries and without Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA). “These activities are being carried out under the cover of darkness and are destroying ecosystems,” she said. The government has hinted at tighter regulations and stepped-up enforcement to combat the crisis. 🔹 *Filabusi Baby Murder Shocks Community* Police in Filabusi are investigating a disturbing case after the mutilated body of an eight-week-old baby boy was discovered at Ukuzwisisa Village in the Marubamba area on May 25th. Authorities say the infant’s mother had left him asleep in a spare bedroom while she went to have breakfast in a nearby kitchen hut. Upon her return, she found the baby’s nose and right cheek cut off. The Zimbabwe Republic Police has confirmed the incident and is appealing to anyone with information to come forward. The community has been left in shock and mourning. 🔹 *Four Die in Masvingo Road Crash* A fatal accident involving a Govasberg bus and a tractor claimed four lives earlier today along the Masvingo-Mbalabala Road. According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, the crash occurred at around 11:00 AM near the 34-kilometre peg. Preliminary reports suggest the bus was attempting to overtake when it collided head-on with the tractor. Several passengers sustained injuries and were rushed to nearby health facilities. Police are still investigating the circumstances leading to the crash. 🔹*Man Detained After Car Ploughs into Pedestrians During Liverpool FC Parade* Merseyside Police in the UK have detained a man after a vehicle drove into a crowd of football fans during Liverpool FC’s Premier League title parade. The incident happened on Water Street where thousands had gathered to celebrate. It is unclear how many people were injured, but authorities have cordoned off the area. Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the scenes "appalling" and thanked emergency responders for their swift reaction. An investigation is now underway to determine if the act was deliberate. 💡 *HEALTH TIP OF THE DAY* Drink at least 2 litres of water a day! Staying hydrated improves energy, concentration, and even supports your immune system. Don’t wait to feel thirsty—sip throughout the day! 🖥️ For these and more stories, visit 👉 www.greatdykenews24.co.zw 📲 Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn and WhatsApp for updates!

GREAT DYKE NEWS

6/4/2025, 6:08:20 PM

The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in the Midlands Province, Honourable Owen Ncube, has urged mining companies operating in the province to comply with environmental regulations and immediately begin reclaiming degraded land. https://greatdykenews24.co.zw/minister-ncube-orders-mining-companies-to-reclaim-degraded-land/

GREAT DYKE NEWS

5/28/2025, 1:53:54 PM

A devastating incident at Pickstone Peerless Mine in Chegutu has claimed the lives of four illegal miners, with one survivor rescued, following an unauthorized blast in an open pit during the early hours of Tuesday, 28 May 2025. According to a press statement released by Dallaglio Investments (Pvt) Ltd, the operator of the mine, a group of approximately 30 illegal miners unlawfully accessed the site and conducted a blast that trapped five individuals under rubble. https://greatdykenews24.co.zw/four-illegal-miners-die-in-tragic-blast-at-pickstone-peerless-mine-in-chegutu/

GREAT DYKE NEWS

5/19/2025, 3:31:29 PM

🚨 *Official*: Ballon d'Or ceremony will take place on September 22, 2025 in Paris.

GREAT DYKE NEWS

5/18/2025, 8:06:46 PM

*OPINION | _The Ball Is Now in Your Half: Time for ZIFA and Its Regions to Convert_* *By Edgar Gabarinocheka* There comes a time in every nation’s footballing journey when the hymn of complaint must give way to the anthem of responsibility. For years, Zimbabwe’s football administrators sang a chorus of despair—pleading for financial muscle, begging for benevolent sponsors, and blaming the decay of the beautiful game on a lack of resources. But now, after the rains have come and soaked the dry and weary fields of local football, after many have risen with sweat, sacrifice and shrewd investment, we must ask: ZIFA, what now? The winds of change are here, blowing through the dressing rooms of our once-weary clubs, fluttering the flags above refurbished stadiums, and rustling the matchday banners carried by hopeful fans. Scotland is building a stadium from scratch, FC Platinum and Ngezi Platinum have long shown that money spent wisely bears fruit, and Hardrock in Division One is writing a new gospel with its heavy investment in both squad and infrastructure. MWOS is breathing new life into Norton. Dynamos are flying to matches like continental kings, not local stragglers (_they lose when they get there_). Highlanders are bringing back that infectious fan energy—drums, dances, and dreams. Simba Bhora is not just a name now; it is a brand, a movement. So, ZIFA, the ball now lies squarely in your half. The defenders have done their part, the midfielders have passed you the ball with precision, the sponsors have run the hard yards. It is time for you to shoot. And we are not asking for a bicycle kick. We’re asking for the basics—a clean, well-managed, corruption-free game. But alas, the first stumbling block is officiating. Jesus, Mary, and Joseph—what are these referees doing to our game? In my village, Chamuka the schoolteacher referees weekend matches with a painted cardboard red card, and I daresay he does a better job. Our Premier League referees, however, have made it an art to get things wrong. Fouls missed. Penalties invented. Games shortened with no regard for the laws of the game. Do these men and women in black receive training? If so, who trains them? And if not, what a tragic joke this is. A nation that allows such officiating is like a man who plants a tree, waters it for years, then lets goats devour it at the hour of harvest. In the English Premier League and at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, referees were taught to take control—ensure full 90-minute matches, punish time-wasters, and add accurate injury time. Is it too much to ask the same of Zimbabwe? Or must we always be the continent's punchline? Secondly, let us talk about integrity and fixture fulfilment. How does a team, Kwekwe United, fail to show up for a home fixture? Is this a league or a village tournament? The shame of such absenteeism reverberates far and wide—TV crews, match officials, opposing teams, and even vendors suffer because someone did not secure bus fare or meals. ZIFA must enforce financial vetting before teams are admitted into leagues. Look at FC Platinum. Look at Ngezi. Look at Hardrock. The blueprint is there. Learn. Enforce. Repeat. And then comes the beast that lies in wait—security, or the alarming lack thereof. At Maglas Stadium this past Sunday, Gwanda Pirates came calling, and chaos answered. Reports and pictures suggest mayhem. A gun allegedly fired. A match commentator nearly silenced forever. Wives now refuse their husbands permission to attend the next game. What is this? A football match or a war front? ZRP, with all due respect, your deployment to football matches is a tired joke. Ten officers in a single pick-up truck to manage over 3000 fans? This is not a church gathering—it is a football match, where passions ignite and tempers boil. These events need trained, fit, and committed officers, not semi-retired uncles chewing gum at the gates while fans smuggle in bottles and blades. No vetting. No pat-downs. No record of who attended. Just gate fees and prayers. _*Kungopinda here veduwe?*_ If this continues, it is not if something terrible will happen, but when. We do not need our own Hillsborough to learn what others learned with tears. We must act. We must anticipate. The cost of apathy is blood. So, ZIFA and your regional underlings, hear this: your time of excuses has ended. The support has come. The private sector has spoken. Communities have invested. Now, you must rise. Referees must be trained and accountable. Clubs must meet minimum requirements or stay out. And security must be real, not ceremonial. Football is not just a sport—it is culture, identity, and for many, the only source of joy in a hard life. Do not make it dangerous. Do not make it farcical. Do not make it an embarrassment. The ball is at your feet, *ZIFA*. Convert. _*Edgar Gabarinocheka* writes in his own capacity. His views are not the views of Ya FM or Great Dyke News 24, which only provide a platform to encourage productive and constructive debate on national and global issues._