Zim Current Affairs

*Morning News: Wednesday 19 February 2025* *Headlines* *Zanu PF Dumps 2030 Campaign* *Harare Council Executives Spending US$120,000 A Year On Holidays; US$1 Million From City Parking Used To Purchase Posh Cars Amid Poor Service Delivery* *Kariba Water Levels Rise, But Energy Crisis Persists* *Mafume Convicted, Fined For Lying To Commission Over Home Address* *ARTUZ Calls On Govt To Scrap Two Examination Boards For Ordinary, Advanced Level* *Man Murders Wife, Uncle, Cousin & Buries Bodies In Rubbish Pit* *Burundi Troops Withdraw In Eastern Congo As M23 Rebels Expand Reach, Sources Say* *Musk's xAI Unveils Grok-3 AI Chatbot To Rival ChatGPT, China's DeepSeek* *Curran Hits Maiden Ton As Zimbabwe Clinch Ireland ODI Series* Join our *Ad-free* News Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VacXkvFJJhzd2UoZYF1F *Stories in Detail:* *Zanu PF Dumps 2030 Campaign* In a significant development, the ruling Zanu PF party has dropped its much debated push to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s stay in office beyond 2028. In an interview with the Daily News, Zanu PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa confirmed last night that the party had ended its bid to keep Mnangagwa in power until 2030. In this regard, the former liberation movement will now allow its structures to decide who will succeed Mnangagwa when it holds its elective Congress in 2027. This comes after Mnangagwa reiterated on Monday that Zanu PF had no chance of persuading him to stay in office beyond 2028, when his term expires. This decision marks a significant shift, as the party had been pushing for Mnangagwa to stay in power beyond 2028. The 2030 campaign had been met with internal divisions within the party, with some members expressing reservations about the push to extend Mnangagwa's term. However, with this new decision, Zanu PF appears to be charting a new course, one that prioritizes the party's internal democratic processes. *Harare Council Executives Spending US$120,000 A Year On Holidays; US$1 Million From City Parking Used To Purchase Posh Cars Amid Poor Service Delivery* HARARE Mayor Jacob Mafume has exposed a can of worms regarding how Council executives embezzled over US$1 million to purchase the latest vehicles in an inexplicable scheme. Mafume made these revelations on Tuesday as he concluded his testimony before the Commission of Inquiry, which is investigating the operations of the Harare City Council. In 2023, the Harare City Council (HCC) executive, led by the then Town Clerk Hosiah Chisango, purchased Toyota Fortuners using remittances from Harare City Park—a subsidiary of the HCC. Mafume revealed that the vehicles are being used by top officials, and no action has been taken to explain the purchase, which was made without the Council’s approval. “That is one of the biggest challenges because last year City Parking brought to the City Council about a million. When we started asking where that US$1 million went that is where the problem began and I am told that the US$1 million was used to purchase executive cars or Fortuners and so forth,” said Mafume. Mafume told the Commission, led by retired Justice Maphios Cheda, that the purchase of the top-of-the-range vehicles was made when the Council was dissolved ahead of the elections. “It happened towards 2023. Towards the elections. City Parking used to enforce one by-law which is the parking by-law then we made a resolution for them to enforce another by-law to give them two. “The sharing of the revenue was that they collect the revenue and we get 50 percent of that. Now because it was the first time they implemented that by-law, it raised US$2 million and the US$1 million was then remitted to the City Council. “We were going to the elections and the City Council dissolved. When we came back we said what happened with that US$1 million because we had earmarked it for doing the parking and all that. We were told that it was used. What it was used for and how it was used and we then learnt that purchases of vehicles for the Executives had been done in the time whilst we had the electioneering,” he said. The chaos currently reigning at the Town House has been attributed to the lack of a functioning Electronic Resource Planning (ERP) system. The absence of an ERP system has resulted in financial mismanagement and unaccounted leakages of funds by the City Council. The Commission of Inquiry’s evidence leader, Thabani Mpofu, revealed that executives at the Council are spending US$125,000 per year on holidays. The Town Clerk is entitled to one international trip per year, while other executives are entitled to a regional trip. These holidays are paid for using ratepayers’ money, which the Council has claimed it does not have, hence the poor service delivery in the city. When questioned about the astronomical figures, Mafume professed ignorance, stating that he was shocked by the amounts. “From the figures, I will have no right to dispute those figures they do not come through me. I have no access to that. I am actually shocked at the figures and the information because they come at a time when we as Councillors are being asked and everybody is being asked to tighten their belts. Others are loosening,” said Mafume. Meanwhile, the Commission of Inquiry has completed its public hearings. The Commission will compile a report, which will be presented to President Emmerson Mnangagwa upon finalisation. *NewZW* *Kariba Water Levels Rise, But Energy Crisis Persists* Water levels at Lake Kariba are gradually rising due to ongoing rains, raising hopes for improved hydroelectric power generation later in the year. However, the reservoir remains significantly lower than last year, according to the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA). As of Monday, Kariba’s water level stood at 476.41 metres, compared to 477.84m at the same time in 2024. While the lake’s operational range is between 475.50m and 488.50m, the current usable live storage for power generation is critically low at 4.09 billion cubic metres (BCM), compared to 10.54 BCM last year. This translates to a mere 6.3 percent storage level, down from 16.38 percent in 2024. The reduced water availability has severely impacted power generation at the Kariba Dam, which supplies a combined 2,100MW to Zimbabwe and Zambia. Zimbabwe, allocated 1,050MW, has already implemented power cuts due to limited electricity production, affecting industries, households, and economic activities. The crisis highlights Zimbabwe’s vulnerability to climate change and the urgent need for diversified energy sources. With a total installed electricity generation capacity of 2,540MW, Zimbabwe still faces a power deficit. The country’s energy mix relies heavily on coal and hydropower, but aging infrastructure and equipment failures continue to hinder output. Despite the commissioning of 600MW at Hwange Power Station in 2023 and 300MW at Kariba Power Station in 2018, the nation struggles to meet peak demand of 1,900MW. This has led to extended power outages of up to 14 hours a day, a situation mirrored in neighboring Zambia and South Africa, highlighting regional power insecurity. *Mafume Convicted, Fined For Lying To Commission Over Home Address* Harare mayor Jacob Mafume was Tuesday convicted and handed a wholly suspended sentence for lying about his residential address when he appeared recently before the Commission of Inquiry into the Harare’s administrative affairs. The Justice Maphios Cheda led Commission found the opposition official guilty of lying under oath. While under questioning by the Commissioners recently, Mafume claimed he was temporarily residing at number 110 Coronation Road in Greendale, Harare. He had told Commissioners he moved out of his private family home in Belvedere to allow renovations on the property to make it suitable for a student accommodation facility. However, when Commissioners visited his said residential address, they found an undeveloped property belonging to one Peter Pfukwa. The decoy home was being used as a vehicle auction site. The Commission found the CCC official guilty of breaching Section 13 of the Commissions of Inquiry Act following the misleading information. He was sentenced to pay a fine of $300 or serve 3 months of imprisonment with labour. The sentence was wholly suspended on the condition that he does not commit the same offence again within the next 5 years. “The Commission imposes the following sentence on you; that you Mr Jacob Mafume you are sentenced to pay a fine of $300 or three months in prison with labour which is wholly suspended for 5 years on condition that during that period you are not convicted of contravening sections 13 or 14 of the Commissions of Inquiry Act which upon conviction and sentence, you are sentenced to a period of imprisonment not exceeding US$300 or three months imprisonment,” the Commission said. In mitigation, Mafume had proffered his “heartfelt apologies to the Commission for the misleading information”. He prayed for a reprimand instead which he said will serve the justice of the case. Mafume said he is a “lawyer of standing”, a family man with two children, and has served the city for a considerable amount of years as both councillor and mayor. He also said he owned two vehicles, a property which he co-owns with his wife. In pronouncing sentence, the Commission said it had taken his mitigation into consideration. *ZimLive* *ARTUZ Calls On Govt To Scrap Two Examination Boards For Ordinary, Advanced Level* THE Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has implored the government to scrap the current set-up of two examination boards for Ordinary and Advanced Level students arguing that this is increasing inequalities among learners. Students in the country can sit for their examinations under the Zimbabwe Schools Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) board while those who can afford can opt for the University of Cambridge exams board. However, the teachers’ group contends that some learners have enjoyed the prestige of the foreign examinations board, diminishing the value of equality in education. “ARTUZ reiterates its demand for a single examination board that serves all candidates, regardless of their socioeconomic status. The current system, which favours elites who can afford Cambridge examinations, is discriminatory and perpetuates inequality. “It is deeply concerning that duty bearers, including government officials, continue to neglect ZIMSEC while their own children sit for Cambridge examinations,” the union said. In the wake of ZIMSEC exam registrations, the teachers’ group bemoaned chronic underfunding of the local exams body and called for the urgent availing of resources by the government. The teachers union castigated ZIMSEC’s higher fees for private candidates saying they are unjust and exploitative and warned that the excess funds collected from private candidates are likely to be lost to corruption, further undermining the integrity of the examination system. The lobby group said the gazetted US$11 and US$24 to be paid subject to payment by O and A’Level students is way beyond affordability and brings to question whether the government’s subsidies towards basic education still exist. “ The government’s claim of covering 55% of the fees is a fabrication designed to create the illusion of support while shifting the burden onto parents and guardians,” added ARTUZ. *NewZW* *Man Murders Wife, Uncle, Cousin & Buries Bodies In Rubbish Pit* Police are investigating three murders in Hurungwe, Mashonaland West, believed to be the work of a suspect who is now in custody. Trymore Tore, 37, of Mubairacheni Village under Chief Chundu is accused of burying at least two of the bodies in his rubbish pit. A third was found covered with tree branches. Police were called to the village on February 17 after a woman reported that Tore had attempted to rape her. The police investigation quickly turned into a murder probe after three bodies were found. Police said Tore, who had a history of abusing his wife Moline Chibayanzara, 21, got into another heated argument with her on the evening of February 15. Tore’s uncle Kuwesi Masau, 53, visited the couple on the following day and tried to counsel them. According to police, sometime that afternoon Tore asked his 13-year-old cousin who is a neighbour to go to several homesteads in the village and borrow a shovel, but he was unsuccessful. When the boy returned, he found Tore filling up his rubbish pit with a hoe but thought nothing of it. At around 5PM on February 16, another of Tore’s cousins and neighbour Anety Nabwalo, 17, visited him intending to watch movies and was never seen again. Villagers began searching for the missing trio late that night into the morning of February 17 when a female villager confronted Tore and accused him of having knowledge of their disappearance. Pleading his innocence, Tore asked the woman to accompany her to see a prophet. On their way, he allegedly attempted to rape her and she escaped before calling police. A police statement said: “On the same day ZRP Chundu Base attended the scene and searches were conducted in the village. “Nabwalo’s body was found covered with branches in a bush about 60 meters from her homestead and beside the body was a knife and a pair of black panties.” The rubbish pit was dug up and the remains of Tore’s wife Chibayanzara and his uncle Masau were uncovered. Tore faces three counts of murder. *ZimLive* *Burundi Troops Withdraw In Eastern Congo As M23 Rebels Expand Reach, Sources Say* Burundi is withdrawing its forces from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo where they had been fighting against M23 rebels, four sources said on Tuesday, in a further blow to Congo's army as it struggles to halt a rebel advance. But a spokesman for the Burundian military dismissed reports of the ongoing pull-out as "fake", and said in a post on X that his country's soldiers were "continuing to execute their missions in their areas of responsibility" in Congo. The pull-out came as the United Nations human rights office accused M23 rebels of executing children in eastern Congo during their advance, which has seen the group seize the region's two largest cities. "A number of trucks filled with (Burundian) military arrived in the country since yesterday" through a border post, a Burundian army officer said, confirming movements also described by two U.N. sources and an African diplomat. Burundian soldiers fought alongside the Congolese to try to defend Kavumu, home to the airport that services Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, which fell over the weekend. It was the rebels' most significant prize since they seized Goma, the biggest city in eastern Congo, in late January. Burundi has had soldiers in eastern Congo for years, initially to hunt down Burundian rebels there, but more recently, to aid in the fight against M23. The well-equipped M23 is the latest in a long line of ethnic Tutsi-led rebel movements to emerge in Congo's volatile east. In their march south, the rebels on Tuesday entered the town of Kamanyola, some 50 km (31 miles) south of Bukavu, according to two residents and an M23 source. A Congolese army spokesperson did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Fighting between rebels and the Congolese army also took place on Tuesday in Lubero territory, north of Goma, local official Kambale Vighuliro and army colonel Alain Kiwewa told Reuters. Congo President Felix Tshisekedi met his Angolan counterpart Joao Lourenco in Luanda, the Angolan capital, to discuss the accelerated deterioration of the security situation in eastern Congo, the Angolan presidency said in a statement posted on Facebook. Rwanda rejects allegations from Congo, the United Nations and Western powers that it supports the group with arms and troops. It says it is defending itself against the threat from a Hutu militia, which it says is fighting with the Congolese military. Congo rejects Rwanda's complaints and says Rwanda has used its proxy militias to loot its minerals. On Tuesday evening Rwanda said it was suspending development cooperation with Belgium over what it called an aggressive campaign to sabotage Rwanda's access to development finance, including through multilateral institutions. Various militias are vying for control of the region's abundant mineral resources such as tantalum and cobalt, key components of electric vehicles, mobile phones and other technological products used across the world. Congo is also the top supplier of copper to China. In Geneva, the U.N. Rights Office said conditions were deteriorating sharply for civilians caught up in the fighting in eastern Congo, with reported abuses including summary executions and sexual violence. "Our office has confirmed cases of summary execution of children by M23 after they entered the city of Bukavu last week," spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani told a press briefing. Three boys likely no older than 15 were killed during an altercation with rebels after they refused to give up weapons they had taken from an abandoned military camp, she said. Between 10,000 and 15,000 people have crossed into Burundi from around Bukavu in recent days, straining resources and leading to overcrowding, Matthew Saltmarsh, spokesperson for the U.N. refugee agency, said. Some have drowned in the Ruzizi River while trying to cross, he said. "(Refugees) are exhausted and traumatised. Many of them have been separated from their families with little information on their whereabouts," Saltmarsh said. Boat traffic returned to Lake Kivu on Tuesday as ports re-opened in Goma and Bukavu, which the United Nations said could facilitate access to humanitarian aid after weeks of fighting and looting. However, the airport in Goma, which the U.N. describes as a lifeline for aid, remains closed. North of Goma, Uganda's army said it had entered the eastern Congolese city of Bunia with approval from local military authorities to stop militia killings there. *Reuters* *Musk's xAI Unveils Grok-3 AI Chatbot To Rival ChatGPT, China's DeepSeek* Elon Musk's artificial intelligence startup xAI has introduced Grok-3, the latest iteration of its chatbot, as it looks to compete with Chinese AI firm DeepSeek, Microsoft-backed OpenAI, and Alphabet's Google Grok-3 debut comes at a critical moment in the AI arms race, just days after DeepSeek unveiled its powerful open-source model and as Musk moves aggressively to expand xAI's influence. The chatbot is being rolled out immediately to Premium+ subscribers on X, the social media platform owned by Musk. xAI is also launching a new subscription tier, SuperGrok, for users accessing the chatbot via its mobile app and Grok.com website. "Grok-3 across the board is in a league of its own," Musk said during a livestream alongside three xAI engineers late on Monday, adding the model outperforms its predecessor, Grok-2. "The introduction of Grok-3 puts xAI back in the race for leadership in open-source LLMs. It outperforms the current state-of-the-art models on some benchmarks, which makes xAI relevant again" said Gil Luria, managing director at D.A. Davidson. As competition in AI intensifies, xAI is ramping up its data center capacity to train more advanced models, by raising billions of dollars. Its supercomputer cluster in Memphis, Tennessee, called "Colossus", is touted as the largest in the world. However, Luria said improvements over the Grok-2 model appear to be too small to justify the enormous resources used to train it. The latest release introduces a smart search engine, called DeepSearch, which xAI describes as a reasoning-based chatbot capable of articulating its thought process when responding to user queries. The tool, demonstrated during the livestream, offers functions for research, brainstorming, and data analysis. Last week, a consortium of investors led by Musk offered$97.4 billion to acquire OpenAI's nonprofit assets, an offer the ChatGPT-maker rejected. *Reuters* *Curran Hits Maiden Ton As Zimbabwe Clinch Ireland ODI Series* Ben Curran struck a one-day international career best 118 on Tuesday to steer Zimbabwe to a nine-wicket triumph over Ireland in Harare, and a 2-1 series victory. The son of former Zimbabwe cricketer Kevin Curran and brother of England internationals Tom and Sam Curran faced 112 balls, and his knock included 14 fours. Curran could not hide his pride after the innings as he became the first player in Curran family to score a century in international cricket. It was a dramatic improvement in form by the 28-year-old, whose previous highest ODI score was 28 runs. He reached his maiden century from the third ball of the 36th over, hitting offspinner Andy McBrine for four. Replying to 240-6 by Ireland, Zimbabwe reached 246-1 with 63 balls to spare at Harare Sports Club, where rain delayed play for 30 minutes during the afternoon. “Congratulations to Ben for a magnificent innings. I have sensed for some time that we were going to put on a performance like this,” said Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine. “I have said many times that there is a lot of talent in this squad. Beating Ireland by nine wickets proves that.” Curran and opening partner Brian Bennett (48) put on 126 for the opening wicket before the latter was trapped leg before by Graham Hume when attempting to flick the ball through midwicket. Ervine then joined Curran in the run chase and excelled, hitting 69 off 59 deliveries, including three sixes and five fours, as the pair added 122 runs. The win was a huge relief for Zimbabwe, who recently suffered white-ball series losses at home to both Pakistan and Afghanistan. Ireland, who began the ODI series fresh from a 63-run victory over Zimbabwe in a one-off test, suffered an early batting blow when captain Paul Stirling departed for nine. Looking to slam a Richard Ngarava delivery over the covers, the skipper looped it straight to Johnathan Campbell. Curtis Campher was next to fall cheaply, out for 11, before Andy Balbirnie (64) and Harry Tector (51) put on 86 runs for the third wicket in the most profitable Irish partnership. A poorly timed ball struck to midwicket spelt the end for Balbirnie, and Tector paid the price for a reckless shot. Wicketkeeper Lorcan Tucker (61) was the third Ireland batter to score a half-century. His innings ended with the bails flying after a wild swing. Brief Scores Ireland 240 (A. Balbirnie 64, L. Tucker 61, H. Tector 51; R. Ngarava 2-42, T. Gwandu 2-44) v Zimbabwe 246-1 (B. Curran 118 not out, C. Ervine 69 not out, B. Bennett 48) *AFP*

*Evening News Round-up: Tuesday 18 February 2025* *Headlines* *Prayer Session Turns Tragic: Floods Claim Lives of Four Children During Church Prayer Session, Search for Missing Infant Continues* *Kazembe-Kazembe Makes Serious Threats to Those Opposing Mnangagwa’s 2030 Term Extension Bid* *Police Withdraw Summons Against HSTV Journalist Who Interviewed Geza* *African Leaders Approve Creation Of $20 bln Financial Stability Fund* *South African Scientists Were Testing A Promising HIV Vaccine. Then Came Trump’s Aid Cuts* *Israel Partially Withdrawing Troops From Lebanon As Deadline Expires* *Russia Hardens Demands As It Holds First Talks With US & Without Ukraine* *DeepSeek 'Shared User Data' With TikTok Owner ByteDance* *Ancelotti Dismisses Guardiola’s “1pc Chance” Claim Ahead of Champions League Clash* Join our *Ad-free* News Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VacXkvFJJhzd2UoZYF1F *Stories in Detail:* *Prayer Session Turns Tragic: Floods Claim Lives of Four Children During Church Prayer Session, Search for Missing Infant Continues* A tragic incident in Gokwe South has left four children dead after floods swept away an Apostolic Church sect congregation that had taken shelter under a bridge. The disaster occurred in the early hours of Friday near Tare Bridge along the Gokwe-Siabuwa road. According to the police, about 20 church members were holding a prayer session near the bridge when heavy rains upstream triggered a surge of floodwaters. The sudden rush of water overwhelmed the worshippers, who struggled to escape. Midlands Provincial Community Relations Liaison Officer, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, confirmed the heartbreaking incident. “A wave of floods came and swept them away. They woke up to try and rescue themselves, but unfortunately, they failed to retrieve four children aged between 9 months and 4 years.” The deceased children have been identified as: ●Beauty Mavhiringani (9 months) – Village Kamba ●Devine Muvhiringani (4 years) – Village Kamba ●Pamela Natare (1 year 9 months) – Village Tsive ●Effort Shava (3 years) – Village Mudzimiri All the villages fall under Chief Nemangwe in Gokwe South. The bodies of the four children were discovered along the riverbank. However, search efforts are still ongoing for another infant, aged one year and nine months, who remains unaccounted for. “A search is still going on to locate the outstanding body of a one-year-nine-months infant,” Inspector Mahoko added. The retrieved bodies have since been taken to Gokwe South District Hospital Mortuary. *iharare* *Kazembe-Kazembe Makes Serious Threats to Those Opposing Mnangagwa’s 2030 Term Extension Bid* In a startling revelation that underscores deepening divisions within Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu PF, Home Affairs Minister Kazembe Kazembe has accused party members of engaging in a dangerous competition to insult President Emmerson Mnangagwa. The remarks highlight the escalating internal strife within the party, as factions vie for power and influence ahead of key political events. Speaking at a recent party gathering, Kazembe Kazembe expressed concern over the growing trend of public disparagement directed at the president. “People are now competing to insult the president, Emmerson Mnangagwa,” Kazembe stated. “This is unacceptable and must be stopped immediately. Such behavior undermines the unity of the party and disrespects the office of the president.” The war of words within Zanu PF has intensified in recent months, with factions aligned to different party heavyweights openly criticizing one another. Observers note that the infighting is largely driven by succession politics, as various groups position themselves for influence in the post-Mnangagwa era. The president, who has been at the helm since the ouster of the late Robert Mugabe in 2017, has faced increasing scrutiny over his leadership style and the country’s economic challenges. Sources within the party reveal that the factional battles have become increasingly personal, with some members resorting to public attacks on Mnangagwa’s policies and leadership. This has sparked fears of a potential split within the party, which has dominated Zimbabwean politics since independence in 1980. Political analyst Tendai Moyo commented on the situation, stating, “The open criticism of Mnangagwa by his own party members is unprecedented. It reflects the deep-seated frustrations within Zanu PF and the growing desperation among factions to secure their positions ahead of the next election cycle.” The infighting has also raised concerns about the stability of the government, with some fearing that the public airing of grievances could weaken the party’s grip on power. Opposition parties have seized on the divisions, calling for unity and reform within the ruling party. As the war of words continues, Kazembe Kazembe has called for discipline and loyalty among party members. “We must remain united and focused on the goals of the party,” he urged. “Insulting the president will only serve to divide us further and weaken our collective resolve.” Despite these calls for unity, the factional battles show no signs of abating, with analysts predicting further turmoil within Zanu PF in the coming months. As the party grapples with internal discord, the future of Zimbabwe’s political landscape remains uncertain. For now, all eyes are on President Mnangagwa and his ability to navigate the growing tensions within his party. Whether he can restore unity or the divisions will deepen further remains to be seen. *Police Withdraw Summons Against HSTV Journalist Who Interviewed Geza* The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has withdrawn the summons against Heart and Soul TV (HSTV) journalist Blessed Mhlanga. Three people armed with pistols reportedly visited Mhlanga’s offices in Harare on 17 February 2025 looking for him. In a post on the X platform (formerly Twitter) on 17 February 2025, Mhlanga said: It’s not a laughing matter at all. Three persons armed with pistols came to my office this morning looking for me. They did not say why they needed me. Then minutes later, I got a call inviting me to Law and Order. I will be presenting myself to the police with my lawyers 2mrw (tomorrow). According to MISA Zimbabwe, Mhlanga’s lawyer Chris Mhike, said he contacted the police over the matter and was told the summons had been withdrawn. Earlier this month, Mhlanga was summoned to Harare Central Police Station by the ZRP Law and Order Section. Concerned about the police’s intentions, Mhlanga attended the station accompanied by Mhike, MISA Zimbabwe’s External Legal Counsel. It was later revealed that the police wanted to discuss the status of a six-year-old case involving former Deputy Finance Minister Terrence Mukupe. The summons followed Mhlanga’s interview with ZANU PF Central Committee member and war veteran Blessed Geza, who had been making critical remarks about President Emmerson Mnangagwa. In the interview, Geza accused Mnangagwa of corruption, nepotism, tribalism, and failing to address the country’s economic challenges, while calling for his resignation. On Saturday, HStv posted a statement on X quoting Geza as saying that he was safe, not arrested, nor in hiding. *African Leaders Approve Creation Of $20 bln Financial Stability Fund* African leaders have approved the establishment of a $20 billion continental financial stability fund, the African Development Bank (AfDB) said, a move designed to stave off potential debt crises on the continent before they take hold. The facility, known as The African Financial Stability Mechanism (AFSM), will get its own credit rating to allow it to borrow on international capital markets, the AfDB, which will host the mechanism, said in a statement seen by Reuters on Tuesday. African leaders had called for the creation of the fund in February 2022 and mandated the AfDB to carry out preparations to set it up. The AfDB now intends to move quickly in drafting a formal agreement and securing ratification by states, it said in the statement following an African Union summit in the Ethiopian capital over the weekend. As well as soaring external commercial repayments and the risk of default, many economies in the region are also grappling with pressure for higher spending, sluggish government revenues, and the effects of climate change. Creation of the facility was also partly motivated by the fact that Africa lacks its own regional financial cushion, unlike Europe and Asia, which have arrangements of this kind. "If implemented as designed, the AFSM can save African sovereigns approximately $20 billion in debt servicing costs by 2035," Kevin Urama, an AfDB vice president and its chief economist, told Reuters. Membership will be voluntary and open to any African Union member country willing to participate. "Provision has (also) been made for at least 20% of non-African members provided the African states retain the majority of membership," the AfDB said. African nations face a range of debt pressures, the AfDB says. Some such as Kenya and Gabon have issued international Eurobonds in recent years and investors have at times questioned their ability to repay. These concerns led to a steep currency depreciation in Kenya in 2023, and a rating downgrade for Gabon by Fitch last week. The AFSM will lend money at "concessional" rates, the head of the AfDB told Reuters last month, and beneficiaries will commit to defined macroeconomic and fiscal reforms. "The core of AFSM's mandate is not to support the provision of bailouts to African states but to prevent them," said the AfDB. *Reuters* *South African Scientists Were Testing A Promising HIV Vaccine. Then Came Trump’s Aid Cuts* South African lab technician Nozipho Mlotshwa was waiting for the test results for a potential HIV vaccine, which has eluded scientists for decades, when the order came from USAID to stop work. The first round of vaccines she and her colleagues made in Johannesburg had produced an immune response in rabbits, which was promising but not conclusive - so they tweaked the formula and sent off four new versions for pre-clinical tests. "This was very exciting. We were getting quite good results," Mlotshwa, 32, told Reuters in the lab in the Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit at the city's University of the Witwatersrand. Now the animal blood samples containing their results are sitting untouched in a freezer. A trial of an earlier, separate vaccine candidate, which was about to be tested on humans in South Africa as well as Kenya and Uganda, is also on ice. Both trials are among the casualties of U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to dismantle the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). They are part of a wider South African-led HIV vaccine development scheme known as BRILLIANT and funded entirely by a $45 million grant from USAID. It is unclear if or when the project could resume. The U.S. State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. "It feels like you're building something and you could really make a huge difference," Nigel Garrett, Chief Scientific Officer at the Desmond Tutu Health Foundation, a partner in the project, said. "And then it's wiped away." The project is one of many research efforts worldwide to be hit by Trump's actions since taking office last month. Others include halting efforts to protect food crops from pests and diseases and blocking publication of a paper on the mpox outbreak. HIV's ability to mutate quickly has confounded efforts to create a vaccine ever since it was first identified in 1983. The researchers in Johannesburg are using the mRNA technology that created some COVID-19 vaccines. Several other mRNA-based HIV vaccine candidates worldwide have reached clinical trials. BRILLIANT is unique in being Africa-led, aiming to develop capacity for producing vaccines in Africa. For the past year the Johannesburg team had been working with genetic sequences from two South African patients who have HIV but whose bodies produce a rare type of antibody that neutralizes the virus. They are trying to simulate that immune response. "We were gaining momentum," said Patrick Arbuthnot, director of the research unit, adding: "an HIV vaccine is the holy grail of the field". Trump in January ordered a 90-day pause in all foreign development assistance pending assessment of its consistency with his "America First" foreign policy. Separately, he has targeted South Africa with an executive order to cut all funding to the country, citing disapproval of its land reform policy and its genocide case against U.S. ally Israel. The U.S. foreign aid freeze has affected programmes across the globe, stranding shipments of life-saving medical supplies, including HIV drugs, and leaving disaster response teams unable to deploy. Waivers for "life-saving humanitarian assistance" have been hampered. Because South Africa has the world's largest population of people living with HIV, at more than 8 million, it is a hub for research on the virus. "Most of the landmark and groundbreaking studies have been conducted in this country. But these have been good for the whole world," said Ntobeko Ntusi, CEO of the South African Medical Research Council, which is spearheading the HIV vaccine search. Ntusi said he did not expect funding for projects like BRILLIANT to resume, given the executive order on aid to South Africa. The council gets about a third of its funding from U.S. federal sources, for research that is mostly on HIV and tuberculosis but covers other areas including maternal and infant mortality and antimicrobial resistance, he said. Garrett said the shot that was ready for testing on humans was a mix of two vaccine substances developed in the United States and the Netherlands which have shown promise but never been tested together. They are now sitting in storage. "We had a huge opportunity, good funding. It's difficult for other funders to fill that gap," he said. *Israel Partially Withdrawing Troops From Lebanon As Deadline Expires* Israel is pulling its forces out of southern Lebanon as the deadline for their withdrawal under a fragile ceasefire deal has passed. The Israeli military continued a pullback on Tuesday morning for the second day. However, while the majority of its forces will meet the revised deadline agreed under the ceasefire deal with Hezbollah, Israel has said it will remain in five strategic locations, warning it is ready to resume hostilities. Lebanon’s army, which under the deal should deploy across the south of the country as Israeli forces vacate, reported on Tuesday morning that it was present in about a dozen villages and border areas. Israeli military spokesperson Nadav Shoshani confirmed that five hilltop locations will be maintained to provide vantage points and protection for communities in northern Israel. He claimed the “temporary measure” was approved by the United States-led body monitoring the ceasefire. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun had raised concerns that a complete withdrawal would not be achieved by the deadline, saying “the Israeli enemy cannot be trusted”. On Tuesday, a spokesperson for his office said Lebanon would consider any remaining Israeli presence on its lands an occupation, and that Beirut has the right to use all means to ensure a full withdrawal. Lebanon is also set to ask the United Nations Security Council to force Israel to comply fully with the ceasefire agreement. However, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed that the five locations would be maintained to guard against any ceasefire violations by Hezbollah. He added that the army has erected new posts on the Israeli side of the border and sent reinforcements. “We are determined to provide full security to every northern community,” Katz said. Hezbollah and Israel agreed on the ceasefire in November, following months of cross-border hostilities and war, as the Iran-linked Lebanese group reacted to Israel’s war in Gaza with rocket attacks on northern Israel, which were reciprocated by fire from the Israeli side. Israel then launched a ground incursion and bombardments that killed more than 4,000 people across Lebanon, according to the Ministry of Public Health. Under the deal, brokered by the United States and France, Lebanon’s military was to deploy in the south of the country alongside UN peacekeepers, as the Israeli army withdrew over a 60-day period. Hezbollah was to pull back north of the Litani River, about 30km (18.6 miles) from the border, and dismantle its remaining military infrastructure there. The initial deadline for the Israeli withdrawal in late January was extended to February 18. However, on Monday, Israel’s military announced that it would maintain the five locations along the border to “continue to defend our residents and to make sure there’s no immediate threat”. The refusal by Israel to withdraw all of its forces confers more uncertainty over the fragile ceasefire deal. Israel has been engaged in sporadic attacks that it says target Hezbollah forces, in violation of the terms of the ceasefire. The Lebanese group has denied accusations against it. The Armed Conflict Location and Event Data (ACLED) project recorded 330 air raids and shellings carried out by Israel between November 27 and January 10, and 260 property destructions. Authorities estimate reconstruction costs could reach more than $10bn, while some 100,000 people remain internally displaced, according to UN figures. The authorities in Lebanon on Monday rejected any extension of the withdrawal period and urged the sponsors of the deal to pressure Israel. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has insisted that Israel will do what it has to in order to “enforce” the ceasefire, declaring that “Hezbollah must be disarmed”. *Aljazeera* *Russia Hardens Demands As It Holds First Talks With US & Without Ukraine* The United States and Russia said on Tuesday they had agreed to press ahead with efforts to end the war in Ukraine after holding talks in the Saudi capital at which Kyiv was not represented. The 4-1/2-hour meeting in Riyadh marked a crucial moment - the first time that U.S. and Russian officials have sat down together to discuss ways to halt the deadliest conflict in Europe since World War Two. Ukraine says it will not accept any deal imposed on it without its consent. Even before the talks took place, the new administration of President Donald Trump was accused by some European politicians of handing free concessions to Moscow last week by ruling out NATO membership for Ukraine and saying it was an illusion for Kyiv to believe it could win back the 20% of its territory now under Russian control. U.S. national security adviser Mike Waltz told reporters in Riyadh that the war must come to a permanent end, and this would involve negotiations over territory. "Just a practical reality is that there is going to be some discussion of territory and there's going to be discussion of security guarantees," he said. Addressing Ukrainian and European concerns, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said no one was being sidelined, the European Union needed to be involved at some point, and any solution must be acceptable to all parties. But even while the meeting in the Saudi capital was under way, Russia hardened its demands. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters in Moscow it was "not enough" for NATO not to admit Ukraine as a member. She said the alliance must go further by disavowing a promise it made at a summit in Bucharest in 2008 that Kyiv would join at a future, unspecified date. "Otherwise, this problem will continue to poison the atmosphere on the European continent," she said. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has consistently demanded NATO membership as the only way to guarantee Kyiv's sovereignty and independence from its nuclear-armed neighbour. Ukraine agreed to give up its Soviet-era nuclear weapons in 1994 in exchange for assurances of independence and sovereignty within its existing borders from Russia, the U.S. and Britain. As European countries discuss the possibility of contributing peacekeepers to back any Ukraine peace deal, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov also said in Riyadh that Moscow would not accept the deployment of NATO troops there, whatever flag they were operating under. "Of course, this is unacceptable to us," he said. The comments by Lavrov and Zakharova signalled that Russia will keep pressing for further concessions in the negotiations, whose opening encounter saw Lavrov and Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov - two veterans who have spent a combined 34 years in their current roles - negotiate with three Trump administration officials in their first month on the job. Both sides said no date had been set for a meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, which both men say they want. But the fast-moving diplomacy, beginning with a Putin-Trump phone call only six days earlier, has triggered alarm in Ukraine and European capitals that the two leaders could cut a quick deal that ignores their security interests, rewards Moscow for its invasion and leaves Putin free to threaten Ukraine or other countries in the future. U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said the two sides agreed to appoint "respective high-level teams to begin working on a path to ending the conflict in Ukraine as soon as possible in a way that is enduring, sustainable, and acceptable to all sides". Russian negotiator Ushakov told reporters after more than four hours of talks: "It was a very serious conversation on all the questions we wanted to touch upon." Rubio said he had come away convinced that the Russian side was "willing to begin to engage in a serious process to determine how quickly and through what mechanism can an end be brought to this war". Lavrov said there was "high interest" in lifting economic barriers between the two countries, after the U.S. and other Western countries imposed waves of sanctions on Moscow over the war. Rubio was non-committal when asked whether these might be lifted. "There are other parties that have sanctions. The European Union is going to have to be at the table at some point, because they have sanctions as well that have been imposed," he said. *DeepSeek 'Shared User Data' With TikTok Owner ByteDance* South Korea has accused Chinese AI startup DeepSeek of sharing user data with the owner of TikTok in China. "We confirmed DeepSeek communicating with ByteDance," the South Korean data protection regulator told Yonhap News Agency. The country had already removed DeepSeek from app stores over the weekend over data protection concerns. The Chinese app caused shockwaves in the AI world in January, wiping billions off global stock markets over claims its new model was trained at a much lower cost than US rivals such as ChatGPT. Since then, multiple countries have warned that user data may not be properly protected, and in February a US cybersecurity company alleged potential data sharing between DeepSeek and ByteDance. DeepSeek's apparent overnight impact saw it shoot to the top of App Store charts in the UK, US and many other countries around the world - although it now sits far below ChatGPT in UK rankings. In South Korea, it had been downloaded over a million times before being pulled from Apple and Google's App Stores on Saturday evening. Existing users can still access the app and use it on a web browser. The data regulator, the Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC), told South Korea's Yonhap News Agency that despite finding a link between DeepSeek and ByteDance, it was "yet to confirm what data was transferred and to what extent". Critics of the Chinese state have long argued its National Intelligence Law allows the government to access any data it wants from Chinese companies. However, ByteDance, headquartered in Beijing, is owned by a number of global investors - and others say the same law allows for the protection of private companies and personal data. Fears over user data being sent to China was one of the reasons the US Supreme Court upheld a ban on TikTok, which is owned by ByteDance. The US ban is on hold until 5 April as President Donald Trump attempts to broker a resolution. Cybersecurity company Security Scorecard published a blog on DeepSeek on 10 February which suggested "multiple direct references to ByteDance-owned" services. "These references suggest deep integration with ByteDance's analytics and performance monitoring infrastructure," it said in its review of DeepSeek's Android app. Security Scorecard expressed concern that along with privacy risks, DeepSeek "user behaviour and device metadata [are] likely sent to ByteDance servers". It also found data "being transmitted to domains linked to Chinese state-owned entities". On Monday, South Korea's PIPC said it "found out traffic generated by third-party data transfers and insufficient transparency in DeepSeek's privacy policy". It said DeepSeek was cooperating with the regulator, and acknowledged it had failed to to take into account South Korean privacy laws. But the regulator advised users "exercise caution and avoid entering personal information into the chatbot". South Korea has already followed a number of countries such as Australia and Taiwan in banning DeepSeek from government devices. The BBC has contacted the PIPC, ByteDance and DeepSeek's parent company, High Flyer, for a response. *BBC* *Ancelotti Dismisses Guardiola’s “1pc Chance” Claim Ahead of Champions League Clash* Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti says his Manchester City counterpart Pep Guardiola was deliberately underestimating the English side’s hopes of reaching the Champions League last 16. European champions Madrid hold a 3-2 lead on City, who have struggled this season and are fourth in the Premier League, in advance of the playoff round second leg on Wednesday at the Santiago Bernabeu. After thrashing Newcastle 4-0 on Saturday, Guardiola said English champions City have only a 1-percent chance of knocking out the record 15-time European Cup winners. “He does not truly think that, I’ll ask him before the game – do you really think you’ve got a 1-percent chance?” Ancelotti told a news conference on Tuesday. “He really thinks they’ve got more chance than that … we don’t think we have 99-percent chance. “We think we have a small advantage that we have to take advantage of, and try to play the same game we set up in the first leg, which went well.” Guardiola won three LaLiga titles and two Champions League crowns in his time with Real’s archrivals in Spain, Barcelona. This campaign has marked the greatest, and perhaps first, true struggle of his managerial career. “This season the reality is we have been miles, miles away,” he said. “The results have been poor.” Guardiola has never failed in 16 seasons of coaching — four at Barcelona, three at Bayern and nine in Manchester — to take his team to the last 16. The 2012-13 season was the last time City did not play at that stage. Madrid got the better of City in the quarterfinals last year, and with a 3-1 win in extra time in the semifinals in 2022. Each time Ancelotti’s team went on to win the title, extending the club’s record to 15 Champions League trophies. Ancelotti also reiterated his frustration with Spanish refereeing, following some controversial decisions which went against his side in recent LaLiga matches. Ancelotti said he was more comfortable with refereeing in the Champions League. “Statistics speak for themselves, in Europe, there’s less controversy in this sense, there are less VAR interventions,” said Ancelotti. “The VAR only intervenes when it’s necessary, and usually, the Champions League features the best referees from each country, so the quality is very high in this sense.” England international Jude Bellingham was sent off for dissent during Madrid’s 1-1 draw at Osasuna on Saturday in LaLiga, but the resulting suspension is not applicable in the Champions League. Bellingham’s teammate Federico Valverde said he did not want the midfielder to change his ways. “What I want is players who leave their soul out on the pitch, in this case with Jude in the last game, I always want him to be like that,” Valverde told reporters. “Jude is a player who shows character, who always wants to win, who always wants to fight. “This time he got a red card, but I like that he’s giving everything, his spikiness … we have to stay united as a team.” Ancelotti confirmed in his news conference before the game that defender Antonio Rudiger was fit to start for the holders after injury, but Lucas Vazquez would only be ready for the bench. Erling Haaland is set to face Real despite taking a heavy blow in the victory against Newcastle. The striker was grounded for some time in pain after taking a knock during the game, but Guardiola says he expected the striker to be fit. *Aljazeera*

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*Morning News: Thursday 20 February 2025* *Headlines* *Zimbabwe Secures Six-Month Supply of ARVs, Plans for Year-End Stock Underway* *Ncube Expels Tshabangu After CCC Misconduct Hearing Passes Guilty Verdict* *Health Ministry Reports Spike In Malaria & Diarrhoea Cases* *Govt Suspends Urban Connect’s Operating License For Six Months After Masvingo-Beitbridge Road Accident Which Killed 25* *ZACC Arrests Zanu PF Councillor, Cop For Stealing Agricultural Inputs* *South Africa's Finance Minister Fails To Unveil Budget After Tax Row* *Congo Has Asked Chad For Military Support To Help Fight Rebels, Sources Say* *'Man City's Surrender In Madrid Marks End Of An Era'* Join our *Ad-free* News Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VacXkvFJJhzd2UoZYF1F *Stories in Detail:* *Zimbabwe Secures Six-Month Supply of ARVs, Plans for Year-End Stock Underway* Zimbabwe has sufficient stocks of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs to last the next six months, with efforts already underway to secure additional supplies that will see the country through to the end of the year, Health and Child Care Minister Dr. Douglas Mombeshora has assured. Speaking in the National Assembly during a parliamentary session, Dr. Mombeshora addressed concerns raised by legislators following the recent suspension of development and humanitarian aid by the United States government. The US, through its Agency for International Development (USAID), has been a key contributor to Zimbabwe’s health sector, particularly in the fight against HIV and AIDS. However, the agency’s activities have been scaled down following an executive order issued by US President Donald Trump. Despite the potential impact of these international funding cuts, Dr. Mombeshora emphasized that the government is committed to maintaining progress in HIV and AIDS treatment and prevention. “We are doing everything to ensure that we don’t reverse the gains we have made in the fight against HIV and AIDS,” he said. He assured the House that Zimbabwe has adequate ARV stocks to last six months, and procurement processes for additional supplies are already in motion. “As a matter of policy, we already have supplies of the ARVs for the next six months, and procurement processes to get drugs that will last until the end of the year are already underway,” he stated. Dr. Mombeshora further noted that even if the US government were to reverse its funding decision, the measures put in place by the Zimbabwean government would remain unaffected. He also indicated that the government would soon seek parliamentary support for additional funding to ensure continued and uninterrupted supply of ARVs. According to Dr. Mombeshora, 31 percent of the country’s ARVs are funded by the United States, while the remainder is procured through the National Aids Council and other development partners. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the continued availability of the life-saving medication. Zimbabwe has made significant strides in the fight against HIV and AIDS, having achieved the global 95-95-95 targets in 2022. These targets aim for 95 percent of people living with HIV to be aware of their status, 95 percent of those diagnosed to be on treatment, and 95 percent of those on treatment to achieve viral load suppression. *Ncube Expels Tshabangu After CCC Misconduct Hearing Passes Guilty Verdict* Self-imposed Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) interim secretary general and senator Sengezo Tshabangu has been expelled for indiscipline by the Welshman Ncube led opposition and now faces an embarrassing recall from the Senate. Tshabangu was dragged before the party’s national disciplinary committee on February 12 this year facing four counts of misconduct which relate to his misdeeds between November and December last year. The charges against the hawkish politician stemmed from his unilateral decision to make changes of “CCC Parliamentary Portfolio holders without the authority of the President or any organ of the party”, according to a statement by party spokesperson Willias Madzimure Wednesday. Tshabangu was also charged for making derogatory remarks against Ncube through public media after he had earlier been suspended from the party. His conduct was in contravention of Clause 9.1.2.3, of the Citizens Coalition for Change Constitution Rules and Regulations, Madzimure said. The party spokesperson further said Tshabangu, through his conduct, brought “the name and reputation of the CCC into disrepute” and was a “brazen” defiance of Ncube’s authority, the National Standing Committee, the National Executive Committee and National Council. Tshabangu, represented during the hearing by party legislator and lawyer, Kucaca Phulu, was found guilty of all four offences as charged, something that elicited his immediate expulsion from the opposition. “Having found Sengezo Tshabangu guilty of all the charges, and having regard to the gravity of the acts of misconduct of which the Committee convicted him, the Committee decided to sentence him to expulsion from the party with immediate effect,” Madzimure said. It was not immediately clear how Tshabangu intended to respond to his sacking. But what remains apparent is his pending ignominious fall from grace after he single-handedly ordered multiple recalls on elected CCC MPs and Councillors from different provinces of the country claiming they had “ceased to be CCC members”. The politician, hardly known to the masses before his bombshell expulsion of opposition colleagues in 2023, now faces the same fate which he subjected his rivals to, a recall. Tshabangu remains a hated figure within Zimbabwean opposition and broader civil society for initiating the opposition leadership carnage soon after elections in 2023. The recalls, challenged few times in court by the party, are also blamed for former party leader Nelson Chamisa’s unceremonious resignation last year. Chamisa claimed he could nolonger afford to remain comfortable among traitors. His exit saw CCC split into two bitter factions with one led by Ncube and another, which remains loyal to him, being led by veteran politician Jameson Timba. During his menace, Tshabangu was branded a party imposter and a hired Zanu PF hatchet man by the opposition. *ZimLive* *Health Ministry Reports Spike In Malaria & Diarrhoea Cases* The Ministry of Health and Childcare has released its Weekly Disease Report for the week ending 02 February 2025, providing updates on various health concerns across the country. A total of 3,912 suspected cases of influenza/common cold were reported this week, with no deaths. Manicaland and Mashonaland East provinces recorded the highest number of cases, with 1,439 and 967 cases, respectively. The cumulative total stands at 13,471 suspected cases, with no reported deaths. Seven new suspected cases of measles were reported, with no suspected deaths. Harare Province reported three cases, Mashonaland Central two, and Mashonaland East and Mashonaland each reported one. The cumulative number of suspected measles cases is now 34, with no deaths. A total of 8,464 cases of common diarrhoea were reported, with no deaths. Of these, 3,358 cases were from children under 5 years old. The provinces with the highest number of cases were Mashonaland Central (1,178) and Mashonaland East (1,157). Cumulatively, there have been 35,265 cases and 17 deaths. There were 2,009 reported cases of malaria this week, along with six deaths. The highest number of cases were reported in Manicaland (824) and Mashonaland West (527). The provinces also saw several deaths, including two in Mutare District, one in Chimanimani, Buhera, Rushinga, and Makonde Districts. The cumulative figures for malaria cases are 5,710 with 17 deaths, and the cumulative case fatality rate (CFR) stands at 0.3%. This week, 24 suspected cases of cholera and one suspected death were reported. The majority of suspected cases (23) were from Mazowe District. Cumulative figures for cholera now stand at 107 suspected cases, with one suspected death, but no confirmed cases or deaths. A total of 545 dysentery cases were reported, with no deaths. Mashonaland Central and Mashonaland West provinces reported the highest numbers of cases, with 114 and 97, respectively. The cumulative total for dysentery cases is now 2,416, with one death. No suspected cases or deaths from typhoid were reported this week. The cumulative total for suspected typhoid cases remains at two, with no deaths, resulting in a cumulative CFR of 0%. *Pindula* *Govt Suspends Urban Connect’s Operating License For Six Months After Masvingo-Beitbridge Road Accident Which Killed 25* THE government has, with immediate effect, suspended Urban Connect Holdings Pvt Ltd operating license for six months pending investigations after one of its buses was involved in a fatal accident last week, which killed 25 people. The accident, which occurred along the Masvingo-Beitbridge Highway, was reportedly caused by reckless driving, with eyewitnesses stating that the Urban Connect driver was speeding. More than 30 people were seriously injured in the accident. In a statement on Wednesday, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona said the bus did not have a valid passenger insurance policy or route permit, and its driver had not met the re-test requirement, violating multiple transport regulations. All omnibus operations by the company in all the routes have been put in hold. “In light of these violations, I have directed the Commissioner of Road Motor Transportation to invoke the provisions of Section 17(b)(i) of the Road Motor Transportation Act [Chapter 13:15] and suspend, with immediate effect, Urban Connect (Pvt) Ltd from operating all its omnibuses on all routes for a period of six months as we further investigate,” Mhona said. Mhona also said that, in response to rising road fatalities, he will enforce stricter traffic and safety regulations to protect the public. “In view of the incessant road fatalities being recorded on our roads, I have taken a bold stance to reduce road carnage as the minister responsible for administering laws and regulations on road traffic and safety management. “Going forward, we shall build on this momentum of strict enforcement of road motor transportation and safety regulations for the safety and well-being of the people,” he added. *NewZW* *ZACC Arrests Zanu PF Councillor, Cop For Stealing Agricultural Inputs* The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has arrested a Zanu PF councillor and a Karoi-based police officer on allegations of stealing presidential agricultural inputs and Agriculture Rural Development Authority (ARDA) inputs respectively. The councillor is Chishamiso Linda Ellah who represents Makoni ward 11. The police officer is Gideon Msambakurima. The incidents happened separately. Chishamiso was arrested alongside Enita Choga, a former Grain Marketing Board (GMB) employee, and Crispen Makoni. They have since appeared Mutare Magistrate, Annie Ndiraya and were remanded out of custody on US$200.00 bail each. “They face a charge of theft as defined in Section 113 of the Criminal Law Codification and Reform Act, Chapter 9:23. “The trio allegedly conspired to divert 400 bags of 50kg fertiliser worth US$12 000.00 and sold to buyers in Rusape,” said ZACC in a statement. Talent Nyamuzuwe prosecuted. Msambakurima, a 39-year-old officer stationed in Karoi was arrested by ZACC on allegations of defrauding ARDA of over US$4 700 in fertiliser supplies. Msambakurima appeared before Provincial Magistrate, Vakai Douglas Chikwekwe at Chinhoyi Magistrates Court and was remanded to 4 March 2025 on US$200.00 bail. Representing the state, Brian Machekera alleged that the accused joined the ARDA Joint Venture Farming programme and was given 8 metric tons of Calcium Ammonium Nitrate fertiliser for his 20-hectare maize plot. Weeks later, he allegedly used the same batch number to obtain an additional 6 metric tons of Windmill Ammonium Nitrate fertiliser, despite having exhausted his allocation. *NewZW* *South Africa's Finance Minister Fails To Unveil Budget After Tax Row* South Africa's Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has been forced to postpone the unveiling of the national budget following sharp disagreements within the coalition government. Coalition partners derailed his budget after opposing his plan to raise value-added-tax (VAT), which would have seen the prices of goods go up at a time when South Africans are hard-hit by the cost-of-living crisis. Godongwana is a member of the African National Congress (ANC), which was forced to enter into a coalition after losing its parliamentary majority in elections last year. His failure to table the budget sent shockwaves in South Africa, as it has never happened since the end of white-minority rule in 1994. The currency plummeted against the US dollar, as markets reacted negatively to the news. The Democratic Alliance (DA), which is the second-biggest party in the coalition, was one of the most vocal critics of the proposed budget. Its leader John Stenhuisen said the party could not in "good conscience" agree to a VAT increase from 15% to 17% as it would have "broken back the back of our economy". VAT was last increased in 2018 from 14% to 15%. The ANC's other coalition partners, like the Freedom Front Plus, said they were only told of the proposed hike before Godongwana was due to table the budget. Godongwana told journalists that the planned increase was mentioned in the cabinet last week. The budget will now be tabled on 12 March, following further discussions to iron out differences, he said. The opposition Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) expressed dismay over the postponement, saying it was a "symptom of weak, indecisive, and opportunistic governance". But the DA hailed the postponement as a "victory", and said it would push for a budget that is "better for growth and employment". *BBC* *Congo Has Asked Chad For Military Support To Help Fight Rebels, Sources Say* Democratic Republic of Congo has asked Chad for military support to help fight a spiralling insurgency by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in its eastern provinces, a Chadian official and a source at the Congolese presidency said. Congo's Minister of Regional Integration met with Chad's President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno on Tuesday on behalf of Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi, Chad's presidency said in a Facebook post. Details on the discussions were not disclosed. A Chadian official with knowledge of the discussions said Chad was considering a request for support from Congo, but had not yet made a decision on the request. A source at the Congolese presidency said on Wednesday that Congo had requested military and diplomatic support from Chad. Neither source provided further detail. They declined to be named for confidentiality reasons. Chad's government spokesman Gassim Cherif did not respond to requests for comment on Wednesday. Tshisekedi's spokesperson, Tina Salama, said she did not have any information on the matter. Last week, Chad's Foreign Affairs Minister told Reuters that sending military support to Congo was "pure speculation". *Reuters* *'Man City's Surrender In Madrid Marks End Of An Era'* Manchester City's shocking decline and fall was confirmed by their own travelling supporters suffering on the top tier of the Bernabeu as they were being ruthlessly put to the sword by Real Madrid. The giant clock inside this magnificent arena was on 80 minutes when Mateo Kovacic lined up a tame shot that flew straight at Real keeper Thibaut Courtois, who was probably grateful for the exercise. City were trailing 3-0, a scoreline that flattered them, so the hardy band of followers decided irony was the best medicine for the torture of watching their once all-conquering side, breaking out into rapturous cheering and applause. Moments later, with City achieving the rare feat of stringing several passes together, chants of "Ole" came from the travelling suppoort. This summed up a pitiful, desperate night for manager Pep Guardiola, as they subsided in the most timid fashion, a sense of inevitability draped over the Bernabeu from the moment Kylian Mbappe scored the first goal of a brilliant hat-trick after only four minutes. Losing to Real Madrid is an occupational hazard of the Champions League. Losing to Real Madrid by barely laying a glove on them is a sign of Manchester City's steep downward curve this season. The credits were rolling, and not just on their Champions League campaign, as they failed to reach the last 16 for the first time since they failed to get past the group stage in 2012-13. They are surely rolling, too, on a great team in need of major renovation. In the most palatial surroundings of this rebuilt stadium, this had the look and feel of the end of an era. Guardiola almost seemed to accept this was the case as he stated in the aftermath: "Nothing is eternal." He said: "The best team won. They deserved it. This is the benchmark. We have to accept it and move forward. "In previous seasons when we were better, it hurt more. We have to accept it and the reality of our team." Asked whether a rebuild is needed, he said: "We have time. We have 13 games left in the Premier League to get into this competition next season." City's need for a changing of the guard was made to look even more stark by the ease in which they were dismissed by Real Madrid, yes the holders and the superpower of the Champions League, but also a side they have consistently pushed in matches almost too close to call over several years. Not here. This was a rout with a casual air. Real Madrid were able to play within themselves after four minutes, Mbappe's hat-trick completed with superb speed of thought and foot for his second after 33 minutes then low drive just after the hour. The Bernabeu, surrounded by thousands of fans forming a welcoming committee for Carlo Ancelotti's side two hours before kick-off, with flares lighting up the Spanish sky and the the smell of cordite in the air, witnessed a procession, a very painful procession for those who travelled from Manchester. Guardiola, justifiably, will claim mitigating circumstances as Erling Haaland was only fit enough for the bench, not even taking part in the pre-match warm-up after sustaining a knee injury late in the 4-0 win against Newcastle United. And moments after Mbappe opened the scoring, John Stones suffered another injury and limped off. It was not that City lost, most observers expected this outcome after the 3-2 defeat in the first leg at Etihad Stadium, it was the manner of the defeat. City never looked like they believed they could pull off the "perfect" performance Guardiola stated was required to overturn that deficit. This was about as far from perfection as it gets. And the clues were everywhere that if it is not exactly back to the drawing board for Guardiola after six Premier Leagues, a Champions League, two FA Cups, four League Cups, a Super Cup and a Club World Cup in a magnificent run of successes, then it is certainly time for a new set of plans. Kevin de Bruyne, who has decorated this fixture over many years, was only on the bench after an ineffectual performance in the first leg. John Stones, 31 in May, is still a pivotal figure but suffers so many injuries, while 34-year-old surprise starter Ilkay Gundogan delivered more evidence that he left his best at Manchester City in his glorious first spell. Goalkeeper Ederson, 31, is not the guarantee of reliability he once was while gifted midfield metronome Bernardo Silva is not the influence of old as he reaches 30. Jack Grealish, 30 in September, was also only on the bench. The renewal has started with new faces such as striker Omar Marmoush, who had no service worthy of the name here, and midfielder Nico Gonzalez, as well as 20-year-old defender Abdukodir Khusanov, who suffered as he was pressed into service in an unaccustomed right-back role. It was a tough night for the young defender, clearly seen as a weakness in City's make-up and relentlessly targeted down the flank. Guardiola's takeaway from this harrowing night must be that he needs a ruthless cull of those older names, players who have delivered so magnificently for him. Rarely has such an elite team's form and quality fallen off the cliff so fast and so hard. This is a team that has been allowed to grow too old together, that is now unable to find the old hunger that enabled it to return to the well of success so brilliantly year after year. Guardiola has signed a new two-year contract and his task must be to fashion a new team before it is time to discuss another deal. The Bernabeu is the most unforgiving arena in the Champions League, its stunning refurbishment complete with five tiers of stands looking down on City's demise. It was a particular galling night for Guardiola, not simply because the task in front of him was laid out in graphic, gruesome detail before his very eyes, but also because Real Madrid's fans revelled in his discomfort as a result of his Barcelona allegiances. Guardiola's name was met with deafening jeers and whistles when it was read out before kick-off, and when one of the many giant screens captured his despair in close-up after Mbappe's early strike, a huge roar of delight swept around the stadium. As City players trooped disconsolately away at the final whistle, some of them perhaps on their way out of this tournament forever with this club, there was no consolation to be had, certainly not from Gonzalez's late goal. Manchester City have had a magnificent run. They have lit up domestic and European competition with the quality of their football but this was a night when it looked like their race was run. It is time for change. The dismissive way they were treated by a Real Madrid side they have regarded as rivals in recent years showed they need new blood to return to that former golden status. It happens to the best of them and Manchester City were the best of them. Not any more. *BBC*

*Morning News: Tuesday 18 February 2025* *Headlines* *War Vets Threats Shake Mnangagwa* *...As Under Fire President Shoots Down 2030 Agenda ... Dismisses 2030sts As ‘Mafikizolo’* *...Could Mnangagwa Be Employing Time Buying Tactics To Neutralise Geza Revolution* *“Report Him to ZRP”: ED’s Response To Questions About Wicknell's Spending Angers Zimbabweans* *Singing For Supper, Breakfast & lunch: Chivayo Wades Into Zanu PF Factional Wars, Says Mnangagwa Doing "Exceptionally Well"* *Heavy Rainfall Expected Across Watershed Regions* *OK Zimbabwe Begins Restocking Amid Economic Challenges* *WestProp, Sharpe Win High Court Gag Order Against Kukurigo* *Private Investigator Chidawa To Further Languish In Jail As Defence Case Drags On In Theft Case* *UN Seeks $6 Billion To Ease Hunger Catastrophe In Africa* *Russia, US officials To Meet in Saudi Arabia For Ukraine Talks* *Barcelona 1-0 Rayo Vallecano: Barca Seal Nervy Win To Go Top Of La Liga* *Neymar 'Rediscovering Joy' Back At Boyhood-club Santos* *Zimbabwe Forced To move Benin Tie To Durban* Join our *Ad-free* News Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VacXkvFJJhzd2UoZYF1F *Stories in Detail:* *War Vets Threats Shake Mnangagwa* President Emmerson Mnangagwa was on Monday forced to address the press amid intensifying power struggles within Zanu PF, as he seeks to amend the constitution to allow himself a third term— an effort that has sparked widespread opposition within his party. Mnangagwa summoned reporters to State House following a series of public addresses by the outspoken Zanu PF Central Committee member and war veteran, Blessed Geza. Geza has now directly challenged Mnangagwa’s authority, even hinting at the possibility of a coup should the president continue allowing his loyalists to push the narrative that he will rule beyond 2028. In his press briefing, Mnangagwa sought to downplay the internal discord, repeating that he would step down at the end of his constitutional term in 2028. However, he acknowledged that serious factionalism was threatening the party’s stability, attributing the divisions to "people within Zanu PF who are not Zanu PF.” “At the end of my two terms, the party will have elections and choose a new leader,” he said, attempting to quell rising tensions. Geza, who has become one of the ruling party’s most vocal internal critics, has emerged as a significant thorn in Mnangagwa’s side, openly questioning his leadership and grip on power. In recent months, he has escalated his attacks, publicly demanding for Mnangagwa’s resignation. Geza has accused Mnangagwa of betraying the ideals of the liberation struggle, mismanaging the country, and using state institutions to suppress dissent within Zanu PF. His latest remarks come amid growing factionalism in the ruling party, with tensions escalating between Mnangagwa’sloyalists and those sympathetic to his deputy, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga. On Sunday, Geza dismissed speculation that he had been arrested or gone into hiding, instead suggesting that his next move was imminent. “We are ready to bring change, and no amount of threats and lies will derail the struggle. The signal is coming,” he declared. Speaking to ZimEye on Saturday, Geza laughed off reports that he was on the run from Mnangagwa’s security forces. “Is this how a person who is on the run appears?” he quipped. He further suggested that it was Mnangagwa’s camp that was feeling the pressure. “They are the ones preparing to set off,” he said ominously. Pressed on his next steps, Geza hinted at an imminent development. “Any time from now, I think in the next two days… do not be alarmed at all. We are on top of the situation, 100 percent,” he said, implying a major announcement or action from his movement. The factional battles within Zanu PF trace back to the 2017 military coup that ousted long-time leader Robert Mugabe. Mnangagwa, with the crucial backing of Chiwenga and the military, ascended to power. However, cracks between the two men soon began to show, as Mnangagwa sought to consolidate power at the expense of his deputy and the military elite. Chiwenga, a former army general who played a pivotal role in installing Mnangagwa, has long harbored presidential ambitions. His faction—comprising military-aligned officials and war veterans—has been quietly pushing back against Mnangagwa’s attempts to entrench his rule beyond 2028. Geza’s outspoken defiance has placed him at the center of this struggle, effectively serving as the face of the anti-Mnangagwa resistance within Zanu PF. *...As Under Fire President Shoots Down 2030 Agenda ... Dismisses 2030sts As ‘Mafikizolo’* PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has shot down calls within the ruling party Zanu PF for him to extend his rule beyond the constitutionally mandated two terms, insisting he will step down and not seek re-election. ZANU PF is currently divided, with one faction advocating for the suspension of the 2028 elections to enable Mnangagwa to remain in power until 2030, while another faction insists on adhering to the constitutionally stipulated two-term limit. A faction believed to be backing Vice President Constantino Chiwenga is opposing the extension of Mnangagwa’s term limit. Government ministers have been vying for Mnangagwa to extend his rule beyond 2028, under the guise of “completing his projects”. Addressing editors from mainstream media outlets in Harare, Mnangagwa took a swipe at a section of supporters in Zanu PF who do not abide by the ethos of the party. “I have my two terms, and these terms are very definite and I am so democratic, when they come to an end I will step aside and my party will elect a successor. That is clear as day. “I think those who really are Zanu PF at the heart go by the rules in decorum of Zanu PF. We have other people who are in Zanu PF in themselves are not Zanu PF but they dress in the Zanu PF regalia. So we must always see when people talk and they see to which camp they belong as they open their mouths,” said Mnangagwa. Mnangagwa added that he will step down after completing his 2 terms. Mnangagwa has publicly insisted that he will not stand in the next elections, despite a resolution from Zanu PF to push for the amendment of the constitution. However, the sincerity of his public declaration is under scrutiny, as he has not rebuked or cracked down on the 2030 proponents within Zanu PF. Former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) spokesperson, Fadzayi Mahere, said Mnangagwa’s declaration reeks of a public stunt. “Does he plan to cause any amendments to the Constitution? If his parliamentary super-majority changes the Constitution to extend his term, will he “comply”? This face-saving, word-twisting approbation and reprobation simply doesn’t cut it,” said Mahere. *...Could Mnangagwa Be Employing Time Buying Tactics To Neutralise Geza Revolution* This statement by President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa declaring that he will not extend his term beyond 2028 appears less a firm commitment to constitutional adherence and more a strategic decoy aimed at defusing immediate political pressure. A closer analysis suggests several underlying dynamics at play. First, the announcement seems timed to placate a vocal segment of the war veterans, the GEZA REVOLUTION, whose calls for his resignation letter have grown increasingly insistent. By publicly stating that his tenure is fixed, President Mnangagwa seeks to create a narrative of adherence to constitutional limits. However, this move could be interpreted as a temporary measure designed to ease external pressures while 2030ists (probably including him) internally regroups. This pronouncement is a strategy to buy time. The repeated emphasis on not overstaying his term masks a broader tactical recalibration. Behind closed doors, there are strong indications that his inner circle or “foot soldiers” has been instructed to continue advancing this agenda. This suggests that while the rhetoric emphasizes term limitations, the operative strategy might focus on maintaining or even expanding this agenda through less transparent means. Furthermore, dismissing or downplaying the veterans’ demands in public statements could be interpreted as an attempt to isolate dissenting voices on a formal platform, while silently shifting political power structures to ensure that pressure points are neutralized. In this sense, the statement acts as a dual purpose tool l but publicly, it reassures certain constituencies and international onlookers regarding a commitment to term limits, and privately, it allows the 2030ists to consolidate the constitutional amendment plan in a potentially reconfigured political landscape. In conclusion, while President Mnangagwa’s statement nominally addresses concerns over an extended term, the evidence suggests it may be more of a tactical façade. The alignment of this announcement with ongoing internal communications urging his supporters to “pursue the agenda” hints at a calculated effort to leverage apparent concessions while safeguarding long-term political control. If you look closely, on the headlines, ZANU PF CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT TO PRESIDENTIAL TERM LIMITS SAIL THROUGH. This shows inconsistency between the President’s message and the status quo, why is ZANU PF moving ahead with an amendment that the beneficiary is not interested in? This facade, therefore, appears designed less to HUKU-WING people and more to delay confrontation with war veterans and other political adversaries, providing the 2030ists with critical time to regroup and strategise. If sincere, the President should just read the riot Act against all those moving forward with this idea because this will just work as his strategy that when the plan fails, he will entirely throw his lieutenants under the bus, but if the plan succeeds he again will come and say, I AM A CONSTITUTIONALIST, I WILL ABIDE BY WHAT THE “NEW CONSTITUTION” will be saying, that is going beyond 2028. Unfortunately, Zimbabweans are now clever to see through such chicanery. *“Report Him to ZRP”: ED’s Response To Questions About Wicknell's Spending Angers Zimbabweans* President Mnangagwa has been forced to address his relationship with flamboyant businessman Wicknell Chivayo. Speaking at State House in Harare on Monday during an interactive session with journalists from State-owned media, Mnangagwa also addressed growing calls by Zanu PF for him to extend his term beyond 2028. When asked if Chivayo was his ‘front’, the President playfully patted himself and quipped, “Ah my front. Do you see him? I don’t see him,” drawing laughter from the journalists. Chivayo has been on a high-profile gifting spree, handing out luxury cars, cash, and other goodies to individuals he claims supported Mnangagwa’s re-election in 2023. However, the President dismissed suggestions that he was bankrolling Chivayo’s activities. “So find out first where I get the money to give Chivayo to give to people rather than wasting my time about somebody using his money. So you can’t bother me about somebody who’s philanthropic,” he added. *‘Report Him to ZRP’: Mnangagwa Tells Businessman’s Critics* He also mentioned that if Chivayo were a criminal, he would have instructed the police to take action. Mnangagwa urged anyone who has been robbed by Chivayo to report it to the police. “Deno anga achiba kuda taituma mapurisa. Kana kune anenge abirwa please report.” he said. Interestingly, in June last year, Wicknell Chivayo trended after bragging that he had captured President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the system in a leaked audio. In the audio, Chivayo gloated that he had a tight grip on the system and was now its blue-eyed boy, getting all important contracts. He revealed that the President now considers him a son. *Singing For Supper, Breakfast & lunch: Chivayo Wades Into Zanu PF Factional Wars, Says Mnangagwa Doing "Exceptionally Well* Controversial tenderpreneur Wicknell Chivayo has backed the extension of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s rule beyond the constitutionally stipulated two-term limit, inserting himself into the ruling party’s ongoing factional battles, which show no signs of abating. The push to extend Mnangagwa’s rule has deepened divisions within the ruling party, with two factions emerging at loggerheads. One faction, loyal to Mnangagwa, is advocating for the suspension of the 2028 elections to allow him to remain in power until 2030. Meanwhile, another faction, believed to be aligned with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, is pushing for adherence to the constitutional term limits. Chivayo, a beneficiary of controversial government deals, has apparently chosen a side in the factional dispute, praising Mnangagwa for having done “exceptionally well”. “This development in the USA got me deeply reflecting on our beloved Country, where H. E. President Mnangagwa has demonstrated remarkable leadership. In my opinion, when a leader is delivering exceptional results, their presidency should not be cut short, especially if the people overwhelmingly support his continued leadership. Even the opposition in Zimbabwe, despite being fragmanted, recently agreed to this concept. “I personally believe that progress must take precedence over procedural constraints created by a Constitution. Most will say I’m singing for my supper and yes indeed, without a shadow of doubt, I will also sing for breakfast and lunch too. “In my view, a performing President like President E.D must be allowed to complete his vision for the nation. The will of the people should always be at the core of democracy. As we have seen in the U.S.A, policy inconsistencies caused by frequent leadership changes disrupt national progress,” said Chivayo in a post on his social media posts. Mnangagwa has, on numerous occasions, publicly rejected the idea of a term extension. On Monday, he told several state media editors that he would not seek to remain in office beyond 2028. However, a section of veterans of the liberation struggle, led by Blessed Geza, has accused Mnangagwa of insincerity. They have demanded his resignation, accusing him of presiding over widespread corruption. Political commentator Youngerson Matete avers that Chivayo’s support for the term extension is motivated by a desire to facilitate questionable deals and corruption. “You are criminal Chikurubhi bound, so it is normal that you will support the mutilation of our constitution to allow Mnangagwa to stay not because he is delivering but because you keep looting our tax and get his protection but the day of reckoning is coming Chigananda,” said Matete. Activist Setfree Mafukidze said Mnangagwa’s clique should not hold the country to ransom by desecrating the constitution. “Our national constitution should not and will not be tempered with to suit ED, we came up with this constitution in 2013 and there is a reason we all supported a maximum of 2 terms per President, we all wanted to avoid exactly what ED is doing today. “There is no one man who can run the country forever which is why even President Mugabe was removed from power through a coup by ED and his colleagues. “Our country is not a playground and this agenda will fail dismally, it will be a disaster if ED persists on this route,it will backfire spectacularly. We are not going to allow failed leadership to continue, it won’t happen,” said Mafukidze. *NewZW* *Heavy Rainfall Expected Across Watershed Regions* Several regions along the country’s main watershed, including Matabeleland North, the Midlands, Mashonaland Central, Mashonaland East, and Manicaland, are expected to experience heavy rainfall today, according to the Meteorological Services Department (MSD). The department has warned residents in these areas to brace for possible thunderstorms and heavy downpours. The morning conditions in these regions will be partly cloudy and mild. However, as the day progresses, the weather is expected to shift to mostly cloudy and warm, with scattered thunderstorms likely in several places. Other provinces across the country will also begin the day with partly cloudy and mild conditions, gradually warming up in the afternoon. Isolated thundershowers are expected in these areas as the day advances. Yesterday, the Mashonaland provinces, Harare Metropolitan, Midlands, and northern parts of Manicaland experienced a similar weather pattern. The morning started with partly cloudy and mild conditions, accompanied by isolated light rain in some areas. By the afternoon, the cloud cover increased, leading to warm conditions with scattered thunderstorms. Heavy rain was reported in some places, reflecting the ongoing unstable weather conditions. The western regions, including areas influenced by moisture from Botswana, started the day with mostly cloudy skies and mild conditions. Light rains were observed in the morning, followed by a transition to partly cloudy and warm weather in the afternoon. Scattered thundershowers developed later in the day. The MSD has also reported significant rainfall figures from the previous day, with Agritex Nyamweda receiving 70mm, Lusulu Tsetse Control recording 55mm, and Gwanda measuring 47mm. Southern areas, including Masvingo and parts of Manicaland, experienced only light showers due to a cool, moist airflow. The department has urged the public to remain alert and take necessary precautions, as the likelihood of heavy rains and thunderstorms remains high in several parts of the country. Residents are advised to stay indoors where possible during storms and avoid crossing flooded rivers or streams. *OK Zimbabwe Begins Restocking Amid Economic Challenges* Troubled retailer OK Zimbabwe has begun restocking its outlets following weeks of empty shelves that led to the closure of several stores. The company has been struggling with macroeconomic challenges, particularly exchange rate volatility, which has affected operations. Last week, OK Zimbabwe, along with other retailers, presented their concerns to the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Industry and Commerce. They cited high taxation, exchange rate fluctuations, power cuts, and increased informal trading as key challenges leading to store closures. In a trading update on Monday, OK Zimbabwe said it had secured support from suppliers and financial institutions to help restock its shops. “The business has begun restocking the operating units with support from supplier partners as well as financial institutions that continue to assist with short-term funding structures,” the retailer said. To improve stock availability, the company has adopted new procurement models, including structured stock supply arrangements with third-party suppliers. It is also working to rebuild relationships with both local and foreign suppliers. OK Zimbabwe expressed confidence that normal stocking levels would be restored before the close of the current financial year. However, it stressed that the stability of the exchange rate remains crucial for the formal retail sector’s survival. The company welcomed the recently announced 2025 Monetary Policy Statement, which introduced some flexibility to the foreign exchange market. “However, there is a need for absolute clarity on the roadmap towards a fully market-determined exchange rate system,” OK Zimbabwe said. The retailer believes a more liberalized exchange rate system will enhance the competitiveness of the formal retail sector, which continues to struggle against informal traders. *WestProp, Sharpe Win High Court Gag Order Against Kukurigo* Property tycoon Kenneth Sharpe has obtained a High Court injunction against WhatsApp news platform Kukurigo to stop publication of “derogatory” and “defamatory” news stories and videos. The court order came just days after the arrest of a man for allegedly extorting Sharpe, and a police announcement that Kukurigo publisher Edmund Kudzayi is wanted for the same charges. Sharpe through his company WestProp and Kudzayi representing Kukurigo entered into a business arrangement whose terms were not disclosed in court, but they had a falling out. In March last year, Sharpe and Kudzayi signed a Mutual Settlement Agreement for Work Done and the latter was subsequently paid US$24,344. The agreement in part obligated Kudzayi not to make statements that could be construed as critical or derogatory towards WestProp or its representatives, according to Sharpe’s lawyers. But in January this year, Kudzayi is accused of publishing through Kukurigo a video “which damaged our client’s reputation by creating a narrative that questions their integrity and financial stability.” To stop further publications, Sharpe approached the High Court last week on an urgent basis. An unopposed order was granted by Justice Regis Dembure. The order says Kukurigo, Kudzayi “and all persons acting on their behalf be and are hereby interdicted and prohibited from publishing, producing, or disseminating any content that is defamatory or derogatory towards the applicants” WestProp Holdings and Sharpe. Kudzayi accuses Sharpe of criminalising a commercial dispute following the arrest of his business associate Nominate Chazwe for extortion and has vowed to fight the charges. *ZimLive* *Private Investigator Chidawa To Further Languish In Jail As Defence Case Drags On In Theft Case* A former cop, Tafadzwa Chidawa will further languish in jail after he was remanded in custody while his defence case is dragging on. Chidawa, popularly known as Kedha is currently locked up after his bail was cancelled for failing to appear in court for over a year. He is jointly charged with Paradza Passmore Matubu, Perseverance Chisango, Malvern Mutanda, and Francis Takura on US$20,000 fraud allegations. Mutanda is still on the run and Takura is serving 36 years imprisonment for robberies. The State alleges that the suspects stole US$20,000 from one Melody Matanhire sometime in 2020. On Monday, Chidawa took it to the witness stand to defend himself arguing that he knows nothing about the case. Chidawa told regional magistrate Vongai Guwuriri that it is shocking that his particulars including his police officer identification cards were found in Takura’s car. Chidawa told Muchuchuti that he only knows Takura as his former colleague at ZRP. Takura also exonerated Chidawa accusing the police of planting the documents in his car. “I was arrested in the Central Business District but police drove my car to Highlands police station and I only signed a seizure for the vehicle because when they searched my car they did not find anything. “The complainant ( Matanhire) was also tried for the same offence (theft) and she was sentenced. “I never took US$20,000 which belongs to Matanhire, I don’t know her and there is no proof to show that I met her,” he said. He also told the court that Matanhire lied to her husband of 21 years that the money was stolen when she was spending the money with her boyfriend. According to the State papers, Matanhire was in a relationship with Mutanda. The court heard that on an unknown date in 2020, Matanhire told Mutanda that she had US$100,000 soiled money which needed some cleaning. Mutanda allegedly told her that the process required US$20,000 in clean notes. “On August 27 2020, pursuant to the misrepresentation she advised Mutanda that she had managed to secure US$20 000, she then made arrangements with Mutanda to proceed to Blue Ridge Lodge where they were going to clean the money. “Unbeknown to her Mutanda hatched a plan with Chidawa, Takura, Paradzai Matubu and Perseverance Chisango to steal from Melody.” The court heard that Matanharire handed over the money to Mutanda who then put it in a cooler box for the cleaning process to commence. All other accomplices allegedly entered the lodge masquerading as police officers and manhandled Mutanda and took away the cooler box which had the money and they went away. The hearing continues on Wednesday. Takudzwa Jambawu is prosecuting. *NewZW* *UN Seeks $6 Billion To Ease Hunger Catastrophe In Africa* U.N. officials on Monday asked for $6 billion for Sudan this year from donors to help ease what they called the world's worst ever hunger catastrophe and the mass displacement of people brought on by civil war. The U.N. appeal represents a rise of more than 40% from last year's for Sudan at a time when aid budgets around the world are under strain, partly due to a pause in funding announced by U.S. President Donald Trump last month that has affected life-saving programs across the globe. The U.N. says the funds are necessary because the impact of the 22-month war between Sudan's army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) - that has already displaced a fifth of its population and stoked severe hunger among around half its population - looks set to worsen. World Food Programme chief Cindy McCain, speaking via video to a room full of diplomats in Geneva, said: "Sudan is now the epicentre of the world's largest and most severe hunger crisis ever." She did not provide figures but Sudan's total population currently stands at about 48 million people. Among previous world famines, the Bengal Famine of 1943 claimed between 2 million and 3 million lives, according to several estimates, while millions are believed to have died in the Great Chinese Famine of 1959-61. Famine conditions have been reported in at least five locations in Sudan, including displacement camps in Darfur, a U.N. statement said, and this was set to worsen with continued fighting and the collapse of basic services. "This is a humanitarian crisis that is truly unprecedented in its scale and its gravity and it demands a response unprecedented in scale and intent," U.N. Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher said. One of the famine-stricken camps was attacked by the RSF last week as the paramilitary group tries to tighten its grip on its Darfur stronghold. While some aid agencies say they have received waivers from Washington to provide aid in Sudan, uncertainty remains on the extent of coverage for providing famine relief. The U.N. plan aims to reach nearly 21 million people within the country, making it the most ambitious humanitarian response so far for 2025, and requires $4.2 billion - the rest being for those displaced by the conflict. *Reuters* *Russia, US officials to meet in Saudi Arabia for Ukraine talks* The United States and Russia have confirmed that their top delegates will meet in Saudi Arabia this week to discuss ending the war in Ukraine, in a move that has sparked concern among European leaders left out of the US-led effort. Senior US and Russian officials will hold talks in Riyadh on Tuesday in an effort to lay the groundwork for peace talks, the US Department of State and the Kremlin confirmed on Monday. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Yuri Ushakov, a foreign policy adviser to President Vladimir Putin, were due to travel to the Saudi capital, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. They will meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, and Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff, the State Department said. The confirmation comes just days after US President Donald Trump said he and Putin had agreed in a phone call to begin negotiations to end the war, which will hit the three-year mark later this month. Trump’s push for bilateral talks with Moscow has raised alarm about what place Ukraine and its European allies would have at the negotiating table. Meanwhile, European leaders were due to meet in Paris to discuss their response to Washington’s shocking policy shift on Ukraine, which has seen Kyiv and its European allies sidelined. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that Europe’s security was at a “turning point”. “Yes, it is about Ukraine – but it is also about us,” she said as she arrived at the emergency meeting. “We need an urgency mindset. We need a surge in defence. And we need both of them now.” Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said he would urge European leaders in Paris to “immediately” boost Europe’s defences, warning they do not match Russia’s. “We will not be able to effectively help Ukraine if we do not immediately take practical steps regarding our own defence capabilities,” Tusk told reporters before flying to Paris. “If Europe, and that’s the case today, is not able to counter Russia’s military potential, then we must catch up immediately.” Trump has announced that he intends to talk “peace in Ukraine” directly with Putin, who unleashed a full-scale invasion of neighbouring Ukraine three years ago. US officials confirmed over the weekend that they do not expect Europe to be involved. Al Jazeera’s Natacha Butler, reporting from Paris, said there was “a real sense of urgency” among European leaders gathered in the French capital. “It has become clear that the transatlantic partnership is no longer strong at all,” Butler said. “They see the US has already stepped away and they are very scared that what is agreed between Trump and Putin could have an impact on the future of Europe’s security.” Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, has suggested that Moscow is happy with Trump’s approach, stating that discussions on European participation in talks on a settlement in Ukraine would be premature. Lavrov also said he saw no reason for Europeans to take part in ceasefire talks, accusing them of wanting to “continue war” in Ukraine. “I don’t know what they would do at the negotiating table,” he said during a news conference in Moscow. “If they are going to sit at the negotiating table with the aim of continuing war, then why invite them there?” Before the informal summit in France, Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares said European leaders will discuss how to prevent a peace negotiation from ending up rewarding Russian aggression. “A war of aggression cannot be rewarded. We cannot encourage others to launch wars of aggression,” he said in an interview with the Onda Cero radio station. “Today I’m convinced Putin will keep attacking and bombing Ukraine, so I do not see peace on the horizon at the moment.” High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas last week warned Trump against “any deal behind” the backs of Ukraine or Europe and accused him of “appeasement”. *Aljazeera* *Barcelona 1-0 Rayo Vallecano: Barca Seal Nervy Win To Go Top Of La Liga* Barcelona saw out a nervy win against Rayo Vallecano to return to the top of La Liga for the first time since December. Robert Lewandowski's first-half penalty was enough for Barca to leapfrog title rivals Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, after both capital clubs dropped points in 1-1 draws on Saturday. The Poland striker rolled his spot-kick in off the post - his 20th league goal of the season - after the hosts were awarded a contentious penalty following a video assistant referee (VAR) review. Rayo midfielder Pathe Ciss was penalised for pulling down Inigo Martinez in the box, though the Barcelona centre-back was never close to getting to the ball ahead of goalkeeper Augusto Batalla. The visitors were incensed when they were denied a penalty following a similar incident, this time Ciss going to ground. The controversy continued as Rayo thought they had equalised when Jorge de Frutos latched on to a through ball and finished past Wojciech Szczesny, but striker Randy Nteka - standing in an offside position - was judged to have interfered with Martinez's ability to make a tackle. Barcelona spurned several chances to score in the second half, and were fortunate not to concede a late equaliser when De Frutos headed over following a Rayo counter-attack. Hansi Flick's side go top of the table with 51 points, ahead of Real Madrid on goal difference, and one point above Atletico, with 14 games left to play. *BBC* *Neymar 'Rediscovering Joy' Back At Boyhood-club Santos* Neymar says Santos are helping him to "rediscover joy" after returning to his boyhood club on a short-term contract. The 33-year-old ended a 16-month goal drought when coolly converting from the penalty spot in Santos' 3-1 win against Agua Santa on Sunday. "I'm happy to be playing again. I feel I'm improving," said Neymar, who completed a return to Santos after Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal agreed to terminate his contract by mutual consent following an injury-hit spell with the club. He added: "Obviously I'm not going to be 100% physically, it's only my fourth game but I'm getting better and better. "I was anxious to score and wanted to dedicate this to the fans and my family." Al-Hilal paid £77.6m to sign Neymar from Paris St-Germain in August 2023 but a knee injury restricted him to just seven appearances. Neymar made his senior debut for Santos aged 17 in 2009, scoring 136 goals and laying on 64 assists in 225 matches during his initial spell with the club. The Brazil forward further established himself as one of the world's best footballers after joining Barcelona for £48.6m in 2013. He won eight trophies during his time at the Nou Camp, including the Champions League and two La Liga titles before joining Paris St-Germain for a world-record fee of £200m in 2017. He picked up a further 13 trophies in Paris but fell out of favour with manager Luis Enrique and sought a new challenge in Saudi Arabia. Shortly after the switch, Neymar overtook Pele to become Brazil's all-time leading male goalscorer with 78 goals, but has not played for his country since his initial knee injury in October 2023. Neymar said he had been "wishing for this moment to come true for a long time" when announcing his return to Santos on deal which runs until 30 June. "We're helping each other, Santos are helping me, they've opened doors for me to rediscover soccer, to rediscover joy," he said. "I didn't want to sign a long contract because I didn't know how I was going to come back. I didn't know how I was going to feel during these months. Let's enjoy these moments, it's the start of a great era for Santos." *BBC* *Zimbabwe Forced To move Benin Tie To Durban* The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has revealed that it has been forced to move their Fifa World Cup 2026 qualifier against Benin to Durban. “Originally, ZIFA had planned to host this fixture in Polokwane; however, following its allocation to Bafana Bafana in January, alternative venues had to be considered,” the the statement said. "Johannesburg’s approved stadiums were unavailable due to rugby and other events, while Cape Town Stadium is undergoing pitch renovations.” The match will now take place at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa. The details are: Date: Thursday, 20 March 2025 Kick-off: 18:00hrs Entrance Fee (Rest of Ground): R50 Zimbabwe are not allowed to host matches at home because CAF say their facilities are dodgy.

*Morning News: Friday 21 February 2025* *Headlines* *Motorists To Buy Radio Licences Before Insurance Under New Bill* *Zimbabwe Compensating Ex-white Farmers For ‘Developments’ While Ignoring The Africans Who Worked On The Land: Says CCC MP* *Zanu PF Fires 6 ‘Rogue Elements’ From ‘Social Media Unit’ Over Attacks On Leaders* *EcoCash Holdings To Rebrand As Nyambirai Assumes 53,3pc In Steward Bank* *POSB Ordered To ‘Open Vaults’ To Mnangagwa’s Handpicked New Investors* *Congo Army Runaways Loot & Sow Panic In North Kivu Town* *G20 Foreign Ministers Gather Amid Tensions Over Trade, Ukraine* *'I'm Not The Worst': But Is Nunez Too Wasteful For Liverpool?* Join our *Ad-free* News Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VacXkvFJJhzd2UoZYF1F *Stories in Detail:* *Motorists To Buy Radio Licences Before Insurance Under New Bill* The Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill, which proposes mandatory radio licence payments before motorists can obtain insurance cover, is set to be tabled in Parliament next Tuesday. The Bill has sparked debate as it links vehicle insurance with radio licences, a move intended to enhance revenue collection for the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC). Under the proposed law, only motorists with an exemption from ZBC will be spared from purchasing a radio licence. This includes those without a radio receiver in their vehicles. Additionally, the government is considering introducing a single synchronised disc incorporating radio, Zinara, and insurance licences to streamline regulatory compliance. This development was disclosed during a tour of ZBC and Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC) premises by the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, alongside the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Media. The delegation was led by Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr. Omphile Marupi, who was representing Minister Dr. Jenfan Muswere. The Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services was chaired by legislator Caston Matewu. Speaking during the engagement, Matewu emphasised the importance of consulting stakeholders such as ZBC as the Bill progresses through Parliament. “We came here because we wanted to have this engagement with ZBC. It is important to hear views from all stakeholders as we go through this Bill,” he said. The Bill is scheduled for its second reading on Tuesday, after which parliamentary debate will commence. It includes several proposed changes aimed at reforming the broadcasting sector. Matewu highlighted that the government is keen on seeing ZBC prosper, citing budgetary interventions that increased funding for the digitalisation project from an initial ZIG30 million to nearly ZIG200 million. Deputy Minister Marupi stressed that sound legal frameworks are essential for good governance. “Our purpose is to improve the working conditions of the media, and that begins with the law. We cannot talk about good governance without adherence to proper legal frameworks,” he said. He further assured that the government remains committed to enhancing media regulations to ensure a conducive working environment for journalists. ZBC board chairperson Helliate Rushwaya welcomed the amendments, stating that increased revenue would help the national broadcaster fulfil its public service mandate. “These amendments will expand our revenue base, ensuring financial stability, which will allow us to invest in high-quality broadcasting infrastructure and content production,” she said. *Zimbabwe Compensating Ex-white Farmers For ‘Developments’ While Ignoring The Africans Who Worked On The Land: Says CCC MP* CITIZENS Coalition for Change (CCC) legislator Darlington Chigumbu has said that the government’s initiative to compensate former white farmers overlooks the disadvantaged black workers who toiled on the farms. The government recently announced that it is disbursing US$20 million to farmers who were displaced as a result of the land reform process aimed at addressing historical injustices in the early 2000s. poster The 94 farmers, hailing from countries such as Switzerland and Germany, are covered under Bilateral Investment Protection and Promotion Agreements (BIPPAs) that Zimbabwe signed with the farmers’ countries of origin. Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube said that the compensation is for the developments the farmers carried out on the farms prior to their displacement. Speaking in the National Assembly recently, Chigumbu argued that the programme is ignoring the historical injustices suffered by native workers while developing the farms. “It is a good thing that our country is honouring its commitments. I would want to bring to the attention of this House that we need to be cognisant of the fact that there are some historical injustices that happened as these people acquired the land. It is a good thing that the Ministry is saying they are paying these people for the developments that were made on the land that was repossessed around 2000. “However, they should also not be blind to the fact that the developments that these people are now being paid for, actually came as a result of labour practises that were near to slavery and our grandfathers are no longer there to be part and parcel or to also claim with these farmers to say they also contributed to the development of that particular piece of land as well as not being treated fairly. “It is also sad that this whole arrangement seems not to be taking into consideration these people who participated in the development of these particular pieces of land,” said Chugumbu. The government has faced criticism from opposition groups for compensating landowners whose land was forcibly taken from local inhabitants during the colonial era. Chigumbu further suggested that there should be a mechanism to ensure that the native workers who laboured on these farms are also compensated. “The third aspect is that when the land was re-distributed, the big guys are the ones who took parts of the farm land which was properly developed and l can tell that they are not part and parcel of this whole arrangement. “My prayer is that can this arrangement include a model whereby these people who are going to receive the payments of the developments that they have done on these pieces of land also pay the people who worked on these pieces of land, which they were not paid fairly during the time they were working on these pieces of land? “I understand most of these people are no longer alive but is it not also prudent Mr. Speaker Sir, to say that they can give back to the communities where their farms are located so that they can also pay something? The reason would be because they are now benefiting from something they did not pay for in as much as we are talking about the developments that were done on the pieces of land that they are now being paid for,” he said *NewZW* *Zanu PF Fires 6 ‘Rogue Elements’ From ‘Social Media Unit’ Over Attacks On Leaders* Zanu PF employs dozens of internet trolls to attack its opponents, according to a document seen by ZimLive. The trolls are employed under the Varakashi4ED Social Media Unit, with the party’s legal secretary Patrick Chinamasa serving as its executive director. The information was obtained after Chinamasa fired six members of the unit for allegedly attacking senior members of the party. Chinamasa announced the move in a February 11 letter to the party’s national political commissar Munyaradzi Machacha. He wrote: “On February 3, 2025, I met with His Excellency, the president and first secretary of Zanu PF Cde Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa to discuss disciplinary issues within the Varakashi4ED Social Media Unit, which I lead as the executive director… “After reviewing serious infractions by rogue elements who attacked the unit’s leadership and senior party officials, the following recommendations were made: ♦ Permanent removal of Jonasi Mandiwisa Musara, Tafadzwa Mawire, Tinotenda Gachange, Felix Muzondo, Pardon Mangwende and Herbert Mathe from the Varakashi4ED Social Media Unit. ♦ Varakashi4ED Social Media Unit shall be the party’s sole Zanu PF recognised social media affiliate. ♦ Expedited implementation of a party social media management policy by the commissariat, information and publicity and legal departments.” Chinamasa advised Machacha that Norman Mbimbi would now be administrator of Varakashi4ED with Dereck Goto as director of operations. “I kindly request your office to enforce these recommendations as per His Excellency’s directive… I will continue overseeing the Unit in my capacity as executive director,” Chinamasa added. It has long been rumoured that Zanu PF employs social media trolls to magnify its messages and attack rivals, but this is the first time proof has been obtained of their existence. In the same letter, Chinamasa said the unit was established following Mnangagwa’s directive “ahead of the 2023 harmonised elections.” One of those jettisoned from the unit, Jonasi Mandiwisa Musara, who uses the name Jones Musara on social media, tweeted on Thursday: “Now back to law school which requires lots of studying, writing assignments and particpating in tutorials. My time on social media will be obviously drastically reduced because of that.” *ZimLive* *EcoCash Holdings To Rebrand As Nyambirai Assumes 53,3pc In Steward Bank* ECOCASH Holdings Limited says it will soon rebrand as Steward Bank is now the only remaining unit under its purview following the takeover by businessman Tawanda Nyambirai. In a joint public announcement by Econet Wireless Zimbabwe (EWZ) and Ecocash informed the market that in April 2024, a Scheme of Reconstruction was entered into whereby all the Financial Technology Businesses except Steward Bank were transferred to EWZ. The units transferred are VAYA Technologies Zimbabwe (Private) Limited, Econet Insurance (Private) Limited, Econet Life (Private) Limited, MARS Zimbabwe (Private) Limited and Maisha Health Fund (Private) Limited. “As a result of this reorganisation, EcoCash Holdings Zimbabwe Limited retained its status as a “Bank Holding Company” with Steward Bank Limited as its only asset. EcoCash Holdings Zimbabwe Limited is in the process of changing its name to remove the reference to EcoCash as the Company no longer owns EcoCash and the other Fintech businesses,” the joint statement said. TN acquired 53.3% of the Bank Holding Company of which 25% was already held in line with Banking Act and Regulations and the remaining 28.3%, is subject to a pending Application to the Registrar of Banks to hold in excess of the permitted 25% limit, before beneficial ownership is transferred. EWZ and Econet Global Limited currently have a shareholding position in the Bank Holding Company of 12.4% and 12.5% respectively and intend to maintain a strategic shareholding in the Bank Holding Company. The Fintech businesses have been operating as subsidiaries of Econet Wireless Zimbabwe Limited since April 2024. Their performance was reported in the Company’s public Financial Reports for the half year ended August 2024 under the Mobile Money and Insurance segments. “Mr Eddie Chibi continues as Chief Executive Officer of the Financial Technology Businesses that are now held as subsidiaries of Econet Wireless Zimbabwe Limited. All existing Fintech, Mobile Money and Banking services operations continue uninterrupted,” the statement added. *NewZW* *POSB Ordered To ‘Open Vaults’ To Mnangagwa’s Handpicked New Investors* President Emmerson Mnangagwa has ordered the sale of the People’s Own Savings Bank (POSB) to a consortium fronted by Zanu PF-supporting cleric Morris Brown Gwedegwe, against advice from the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency which questioned the source of funds for his Hebrew Investment Group, ZimLive can reveal. The POSB, now under the Mutapa Investment Fund, is one of at least eight loss-making parastatals the government has put up for sale. Instead of a public process to invite bids for POSB, Mnangagwa – through attorney general Virginia Mabiza – handpicked Hebrew Investment Group as the investment partner. Under the terms of the deal, Hebrew Investment Group will take up 70 percent shareholding in POSB by contributing US$70 million of the US$100 million required to capitalise the bank. The government of Zimbabwe will remain with a 10 percent stake financed through existing POSB assets while the other $20 million for a 20 percent stake will come from private individuals. A joint venture agreement signed between Mabiza and Hebrew Investment Group CEO Professor Emile Kue on December 18, 2024, also says Hebrew Investment Group will advance the government of Zimbabwe a US$6 billion loan to be repayed over 30 years. The loan will attract interest of 0.3 percent per annum and it is to be repaid through the government’s dividends from its POSB shareholding. ZimLive understands ZIDA questioned the company’s source of funds and tried to stall the signing of the joint venture agreement, but Mnangagwa and Mabiza railroaded it through. *ZimLive* *Congo Army Runaways Loot & Sow Panic In North Kivu Town* The Congolese army called on deserters to rejoin their units on Thursday, as rogue soldiers fired guns and looted parts of the eastern town of Lubero after fleeing nearby clashes with advancing Rwandan-backed rebels. The unrest points to mounting disarray within the Congolese armed forces in the face of the M23 rebel group's ongoing offensive, which has captured eastern Democratic Republic of Congo's two largest cities and stoked fears of a wider war. A statement from a military spokesperson for operations in North Kivu province ordered runaway soldiers around Lubero to return to their posts within 12 hours and called on all soldiers to refrain from theft and other illegal acts. Fighting with the M23 has continued outside the town, in the southern part of the wider Lubero territory, for the past 72 hours, Congolese army spokesperson Sylvain Ekenge told Reuters. On Thursday morning, five residents of Lubero town described chaotic scenes linked to the desertions from the front line, including bursts of gunfire and looting at the central market and in shops selling mobile phones and clothes. "It's complete turmoil in Lubero. Shots can be heard ... The soldiers are running in all directions," said one of the residents, speaking on condition of anonymity out of security concerns. Later, Lubero's military administrator Alain Kiwewa said order had been restored in the town and blamed a group of undisciplined soldiers for sowing panic. Such incidents and a flare-up of fighting with the M23 around Lubero have added to pressure on the army. It staged a disorderly retreat in neighbouring South Kivu province after the M23 advance into the provincial capital Bukavu over the weekend led to clashes between Congolese forces and allied militias, which wanted to stay and fight. The escalation has alarmed the wider region and the international community. On Thursday, the United States imposed sanctions on a Rwandan government minister and a senior rebel for their alleged role in the conflict. Neighbouring Rwanda denies allegations from Congo and the United Nations that it supports the M23 with arms and troops. It says it is defending itself against Hutu militias which it accuses of fighting alongside the Congolese military. Congo rejects this and says Rwanda has used the M23 as a proxy to loot its minerals such as gold and coltan, used in smartphones and computers. Congo's finance ministry on Thursday announced the launch of a solidarity fund for the army that allows citizens, companies and organisations to donate directly to the eastern war effort. The initiative highlights the financial toll of the three-year insurgency which has seen the M23 capture unprecedented swathes of Congolese territory and valuable mining areas, renewing a conflict over power, ethnic rivalry and resources that dates back to the 1990s genocide in Rwanda. *Reuters* *G20 Foreign Ministers Gather Amid Tensions Over Trade, Ukraine* Foreign ministers from the G20 top economies met in South Africa on Thursday, amid tensions between members over the Ukraine war, trade disputes and with the top U.S. diplomat staying away owing to a feud with the hosts. The G20 countries, which represent some 85% of global GDP and three quarters of trade, often struggle to see eye to eye, but geopolitical rifts since Russia's 2022 Ukraine invasion have rendered it more fractious than ever. The discord has increased since President Donald Trump took office a month ago and implemented rapid changes in Washington's trade and foreign policies. "Geopolitical tensions and rising intolerance, conflict and war ... threaten an already fragile global coexistence," South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who holds the rotating presidency of the group, said in an opening speech of the gathering, which ends on Friday. South Africa sees the first G20 meeting on the continent as an opportunity to get rich nations to heed poorer countries' concerns - worsening inequality, inadequate action by wealthy countries on climate change, and a financial system that favours investment banks over poor sovereign debtors. "Those most responsible for climate change, you have a duty and a responsibility to support those least responsible," Ramaphosa said, while also calling for "debt sustainability for low-income countries." The United States did not attend: Secretary of State Marco Rubio earlier this month rejected as "very bad" the previously agreed agenda of "diversity, equity and inclusion". Then Trump cut U.S. aid to South Africa in an ideological dispute with the latter's efforts to redress historic racial injustices in land ownership - and over its genocide case against U.S. ally Israel at the International Court of Justice. The gathering takes place as Trump has upended the U.S. policy of solidarity with Ukraine as he seeks to broker peace in its war with Russia. He has blamed President Volodymyr Zelenskiy for the conflict, and sidelined NATO allies in ending a campaign to isolate Russia. "As the G20 we must continue to advocate for diplomatic solutions to conflicts," Ramaphosa, who has resisted pressure to isolate Russia over the invasion. The U.S. absence is an opportunity for China, which has the world's second biggest economy, to expand its influence. Such efforts by Beijing are normally focused on the Global South but China has quickly sought to capitalise on the cracks in the transatlantic alliance. Its foreign ministry said on Monday that "healthy and stable" China-EU relations are needed now more than ever. *Reuters* *'I'm Not The Worst': But Is Nunez Too Wasteful For Liverpool?* "I wasn't the best three weeks ago, and I'm not the worst now." That is how Darwin Nunez framed the disappointment he experienced as Liverpool missed the chance to go 10 points clear in the Premier League title race in Wednesday's 2-2 draw at Aston Villa. The Uruguay striker's wastefulness in front of goal, a persistent concern since he joined for an initial £64m in 2022, again reared its head as he blazed over from six yards with the target gaping at Villa Park. It is only one month, though, since Nunez produced stoppage-time heroics with a late double to clinch a 2-0 win at Brentford and strengthen the Reds' grip in top spot. But his miss, which had an expected goals value (xG) of 0.75 - meaning he would be expected to score 75% of the time in that scenario - was described as "one of the worst we've seen this year" by ex-Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler on TNT Sports. It also left head coach Arne Slot with his head in his hands as he later lamented the loss of two points. For Slot, however, this was less about Nunez's miss and much more about the impact it had on the player. "I can accept every miss, especially from a player that scored two very important goals against Brentford," he said on Thursday. "What was a bit harder for me to accept was his behaviour after that chance. I think it got too much in his head and he wasn't the usual Darwin that works his ass off and helps the team. I think he was too disappointed." It all means Arsenal can cut Liverpool's lead to five points when they host West Ham on Saturday. Slot's side, who have played one game more than the Gunners, visit Manchester City on Sunday, before hosting Newcastle United in midweek. On Thursday, Nunez posted on social media: "If I fall, I get up. You'll never see me give up. I'm going to give it my all until the last day I'm here in Liverpool. Resilience!" But do the numbers suggest the Uruguay international can still play a pivotal role for Liverpool going forward? Nunez, who was heavily linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League in January, is now in his third full season at Anfield since joining from Portuguese side Benfica on a six-year-deal. Liverpool signed Nunez following an excellent 2021-22 campaign in which he scored 34 times in 41 appearances for Benfica, including against the Reds in both legs of their Champions League quarter-final. But that remains an outlier in the 25-year-old's career to date as the only season in which the striker has overperformed his xG in league competition. In terms of his performance compared to other Premier League strikers this season, Nunez ranks outside the top 20 in a number of key areas. His shot conversion rate of 15.4% ranks tied 22nd and he is 24th for minutes per goal (223), while 30 players have bettered his xG performance (0.0) following Wednesday's miss. For comparison, Chris Wood is setting the standard with a shot conversion rate of 39.1% and his 18 goals a significant overperformance of his 10.4 xG. *BBC*

*Morning News: Saturday 22 February 2025* *Headlines* *Zimbabwe Ranks Highest Corrupt Country In SADC For 2024, Among Top 10 In Africa* *Govt Targets Fuel Cost Reduction To Strengthen Economy* *Chinese Doctors To Provide Free Surgeries For 600 Cataract Patients In Zimbabwe* *Beitbridge On Floods Alert* *Andy Muridzo Sells Wicknell Chivhayo’s Mercedes-Benz Amid Financial Troubles* *Influx Of 40,000 fleeing Congo War Worsens Burundi Humanitarian Plight, UN Says* *US Judge Clears Way For USAID To Put More Than 2,000 Employees On Leave* *Liverpool Draw PSG, Arsenal Face PSV, Villa Meet Club Brugge In Last 16* Join our *Ad-free* News Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VacXkvFJJhzd2UoZYF1F *Stories in Detail:* *Zimbabwe Ranks Highest Corrupt Country In SADC For 2024, Among Top 10 In Africa* Zimbabwe has come out as the worst corrupt country in SADC in 2024, according to the latest data from Transparency International coming only ahead of a war-torn DRC. This was also the worst performance since 2015 when it recorded the same score, the year when US$15 billion in diamond revenues was announced to be missing. In Africa, the country was in the top 10 of the worst corrupt nations, aligned with war-torn countries like Sudan, Somalia and Lybia. This is very concerning given the Second Republic’s promise to end corruption decisively without making any cow sacred. Africa also headlined the bottom 20 most corrupt nations. This articles at the later paragraphs will explain why Africa remains highly corrupt. Zimbabwe has a score of 21 this year, with a change of -3 since last year, meaning it ranks 158 out of 180 countries. A country’s score is the perceived level of public sector corruption on a scale of 0-100, where 0 means highly corrupt and 100 means very clean. The data sources used to compile the CPI specifically cover the manifestations of public sector corruption through bribery, diversion of public funds, officials using their public office for private gain without facing consequences and the ability of governments to contain corruption in the public sector. It also takes into account excessive red tape in the public sector which may increase opportunities for corruption, nepotistic appointments in the civil service, laws ensuring that public officials must disclose their finances and potential conflicts of interest, legal protection for people who report cases of bribery and corruption, state capture by narrow vested interests and access to information on public affairs or government activities After the country notched its worst CPI ranking in 2015 , it then improved to 22 out of 100 before reaching the best performances in 2019, 2020 and 2023 with a score of 24 out of 100. Anti-corruption efforts continue to tilt towards the developed countries of Europe, while Russia and China, Zimbabwe’s iron-clad revolutionary allies also recorded worrisome results. For the seventh year in a row, Denmark heads the ranking, with a score of 90. Finland and Singapore took the second and third spots, with scores of 88 and 84, respectively. Scoring 83, New Zealand was outside the top three positions for the first time since 2012, but remained in the top 10, together with Luxembourg , Norway, Switzerland , Sweden , the Netherlands, Australia, Iceland and Ireland. Meanwhile, countries experiencing conflict and with highly restricted freedoms and weak democratic institutions occupied the bottom of the index. South Sudan (8), Somalia (9) and Venezuela (10) took the last three spots. Syria (12), Equatorial Guinea (13), Eritrea (13), Libya (13), Yemen (13), Nicaragua (14), Sudan (15) and North Korea (15) complete the list of lowest scorers. Since 2012, 32 countries have significantly improved their scores on the index and are now seen as having less corruption. Over the same period, 47 countries made significant losses. These decliners include some high-scoring democracies, like the United States (65) and New Zealand (83), as well as autocratic states like Russia (22) and Eswatini (27). The countries that saw improvements include Moldova (43), Kuwait (46) and Uruguay (76). *EquityAxis* *Govt Targets Fuel Cost Reduction To Strengthen Economy* The Government of Zimbabwe plans to directly procure fuel for its own use and key economic sectors in a bid to lower costs and boost competitiveness, Energy and Power Development Minister July Moyo has announced. Speaking at the National Competitiveness Commission (NCC) inaugural competitiveness summit in Bulawayo on Wednesday, Minister Moyo emphasized that this strategy aims to ensure stable fuel supply and affordability. The minister expressed concerns over the high costs associated with Zimbabwe’s current fuel procurement system, which he said negatively affects the country’s competitiveness. The cost build-up of fuel in Zimbabwe includes international raw fuel prices, transportation costs, exchange rate fluctuations, taxes, levies, blending costs, and distributor margins. The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) factors in all these components when setting retail fuel prices. Price fluctuations are largely driven by global oil price changes and exchange rate volatility, factors that Zimbabwe cannot control. However, Minister Moyo stressed that the Government would focus on internal cost drivers, particularly import duties and transportation expenses. According to Minister Moyo, Zimbabwe’s fuel prices at the port of discharge are significantly higher than those of neighboring countries. He noted that this places a heavy financial burden on businesses and consumers, making locally produced goods more expensive and less competitive in regional and international markets. The Government’s move to procure its own fuel aims to provide predictable and competitively priced fuel for key economic enablers. While acknowledging the contributions of existing fuel importers, Minister Moyo said the Government must secure fuel at lower prices to support economic growth. “We analyze and say, are we as competitive as Zimbabwe among those who we trade with?” he said. “When we look at ourselves here in the region, I think we are very expensive.” He further explained that both he and Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube have been directed to oversee the process of Government fuel procurement. “We have been directed to make sure that on the Government side and in any way, we should buy our fuel competitively because we used to do that so that we don’t buy spot purchases on the international market, as the other 10 traders are doing,” Minister Moyo said. He pointed to successful models in regional countries such as Mozambique, Zambia, and Tanzania, where fuel traders collaborate with their governments to ensure competitive pricing. While Zimbabwe’s current approach involves multiple private importers, Minister Moyo stated that direct Government procurement would help reduce costs. As of February, ZERA set maximum fuel prices at US$1.58 per litre for diesel and US$1.53 per litre for blended petrol (E15). In contrast, Zambia’s Energy Regulation Board (ERB) set its fuel prices at US$1.24 per litre for petrol and US$1.16 per litre for diesel. Minister Moyo commended existing fuel traders for ensuring a stable fuel supply despite economic challenges and assured the public that the country’s fuel reserves, including stock at ports and in pipelines, are sufficient. However, he reiterated that the Government’s priority remains improving fuel procurement competitiveness to bring down costs and enhance Zimbabwe’s economic standing. *Chinese Doctors To Provide Free Surgeries For 600 Cataract Patients In Zimbabwe* A total of 600 cataract patients in Zimbabwe will receive free surgeries from Chinese doctors under the China-aided “Bright Journey” program. A team of 12 doctors from China’s Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital will perform the surgeries from Feb. 23 to March 1 in Harare, Zimbabwe’s capital, Hong Xiuqin, the team leader, told Xinhua on Wednesday. Screening for eligible patients began on Feb. 12 and is currently underway, Hong said, adding that the Chinese medical team will collaborate with local doctors, provide on-site training, and engage in academic exchanges with Zimbabwean healthcare personnel. The program marks the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Zimbabwe and the 40th anniversary of bilateral medical cooperation. Hong said the program aims to foster cooperation and exchanges between the two countries by bringing light and hope to Zimbabwean patients. “The incidence of cataracts in Zimbabwe is high, and we are concerned about the health of the Zimbabwean people,” she said, adding that the Chinese government attaches great importance to the cooperation and friendship between China and Zimbabwe. Boniface Macheka, head of ophthalmology at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, praised the initiative as a testament to Zimbabwe-China relations. “There is a historical basis to the relationship between our country and China. I believe this relationship is going to be further solidified by this program,” he told Xinhua. He expressed hope for more bilateral medical collaborations in the future. “We hope to be able to increase the diversity of the surgeries that we do at this hospital so that we’ll be able to serve our people better and to make the services more available,” he said. Amos Chakaza, a 67-year-old patient, traveled over 170 km from Manicaland Province to Harare for screening. “I can’t wait for my vision to be clear since I have a lot of responsibilities. Having poor eyesight is detrimental to my work. I need to see clearly to be more productive,” Chakaza said. Hunan has implemented numerous medical projects in Zimbabwe over the years, including initiatives for maternal and child health, schistosomiasis prevention and treatment, and traditional Chinese medicine training. *Xinhua* *Beitbridge On Floods Alert* The Department of Civil Protection in Beitbridge has urged residents in the Tshikwalakwala area to brace for possible flash floods following heavy rains received over the last few days. The floods alert was issued by local DCP chairperson Sikhangszile Mafu Moyo late Thursday night. "Beitbridge community, kindly note that the Limpopo River is flooded, and the Bubi River is also flooded. This will lead to back flow in the Bubi River and affect the Tshikwalakwala area.. Lookout for possible flooding tonight around that area," she said in a communique circulated on various social media groups in the district. "Please advise people to avoid low-lying areas and crossing rivers. Rather (they) move to safer grounds and please spread the message. Tell a friend to tell a friend," said Mafu Moyo. Tshikwalakwala,130 kilometres east of Beitbridge near Crooks Corner where Zimbabwe, South Africa and Mozambique meet borderlines converge, is prone to flooding. *zimnow* *Andy Muridzo Sells Wicknell Chivhayo’s Mercedes-Benz Amid Financial Troubles* Afro-fusion musician Andy Muridzo has reportedly sold the Mercedes-Benz C200 he received as a gift from businessman Wicknell Chivhayo, according to his estranged wife, Mai Keketso. Mai Keketso alleged that Muridzo parted with the luxury vehicle due to financial difficulties. “He sold the car because of financial problems,” she claimed. The artist has not publicly responded to the allegation. The car was part of a fleet of high-end vehicles distributed to musicians and other public figures in 2023. While officially presented as personal gifts from Chivhayo, the cars are widely believed to have originated from President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his family, with Chivhayo acting as their frontman. Chivhayo, known for his close ties to the Mnangagwa regime, has in the past warned beneficiaries against selling the vehicles, insisting they were intended to elevate their status and facilitate their careers. His public stance on the matter has raised questions about the real purpose behind the car giveaways, with critics suggesting they were part of a broader political influence campaign. Muridzo’s decision to sell the vehicle could put him at odds with Chivhayo, who has previously demanded accountability from artists who misuse his gifts. In some cases, he has even moved to reclaim cars from recipients he felt were undeserving or ungrateful. The sale also highlights concerns about Muridzo’s financial stability. Once considered a rising star in Zimbabwe’s music industry, the singer has faced multiple challenges, including contractual disputes, personal scandals, and allegations of poor financial management. His move to sell the Mercedes-Benz has reignited debates about musicians’ reliance on handouts rather than sustainable financial planning. Fans have taken to social media with mixed reactions, with some sympathising with Muridzo’s plight while others criticised him for failing to maintain the vehicle. The incident has also sparked renewed scrutiny of Chivhayo’s influence in Zimbabwe’s entertainment industry and his role as a conduit for the Mnangagwa family’s largesse. Neither Muridzo nor Chivhayo has publicly commented on the matter. *zimnow* *Influx Of 40,000 fleeing Congo War Worsens Burundi Humanitarian Plight, UN Says* Burundi is facing a rapidly worsening humanitarian situation as more than 40,000 people have fled there in two weeks to escape fighting in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, the U.N. said on Friday. "Last week more than 9,000 people crossed in one day ... This is the first time Burundi has received this large number of people", Brigitte Mukanga-eno, UNHCR Representative in Burundi, told reporters in Geneva via video link. The M23 advance is the gravest escalation in more than a decade of the long-running conflict in eastern Congo, rooted in the spillover of Rwanda's 1994 genocide into Congo and the struggle for control of Congo's vast mineral resources. Rwanda rejects allegations by Congo, the United Nations and Western powers that it supports M23 with arms and troops. It says it is defending itself against the threat from a Hutu militia, which it says is fighting with the Congolese military. Several areas in northwest Burundi are overwhelmed with people, some of whom have been displaced several times and have arrived injured or with health problems such as measles, according to the U.N. The U.N. representative recounted the story of a woman whose two children died from exhaustion shortly after arriving across the border into Burundi. U.N. refugee agency UNHCR says 36,000 people have fled to Burundi, some on makeshift boats across the Rusizi river separating the two countries, while 6,000 have entered via the official border crossing of Bujumbura since February 14. "The escalating situation in the DRC has had a big impact on Burundi. Over the past few weeks we have observed large number of Congolese who have been crossing into Burundi", Mukanga-eno said. UNHCR plans to move the displaced, who are being temporarily housed in an open air stadium as well as schools and churches, to an area of land where humanitarian care can be provided. The agency has launched an emergency appeal for $40.4 million to provide lifesaving help to support the potential influx of 258,000 refugees into Burundi, Tanzania and Zambia. Burundi has had its own soldiers in eastern Congo for years, initially to hunt down Burundian rebels there, but more recently, to aid in the fight against M23. *Reuters* *US Judge Clears Way For USAID To Put More Than 2,000 Employees On Leave* A federal judge on Friday cleared the way for the Trump administration to put more than 2,000 U.S. Agency for International Development workers on leave, a setback for government employee unions that are suing over what they have called an effort to dismantle the foreign aid agency. U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols in Washington lifted a temporary restraining order he had put in place at the outset of the case and declined to issue a longer-term order keeping the employees in their posts. He wrote that he was satisfied by the administration's assurances in court filings that USAID personnel abroad who were placed on leave would still be protected by U.S. security. Nichols, who was appointed by President Donald Trump during his first term, also wrote that, because the affected employees had not gone through an administrative dispute process, he likely did not have jurisdiction to hear the unions' case or consider their broader arguments that the administration is violating the U.S. Constitution by shutting down an agency created and funded by Congress. "We are disappointed in today's decision and believe the harms faced by USAID workers are real. We remain confident that the courts will find the administration's efforts to decimate USAID contrary to law," said Skye Perryman, president of the legal nonprofit Democracy Forward, which represents the unions, in a statement. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The lawsuit was brought earlier this month by the American Federation of Government Employees and the American Foreign Service Association. The global anti-poverty group Oxfam has since joined the case, though Nichols has not yet considered its claims. Trump, a Republican, ordered a 90-day freeze on all foreign aid on his first day in office, throwing global humanitarian relief efforts into chaos. In the following weeks, officials took steps that have largely shut down USAID's operations, including placing much of its staff on leave, suspending or terminating most of its contracts and shuttering its Washington headquarters. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a February 4 letter to Congress that he had taken over as acting director of USAID, which Congress established as an agency independent of the State Department in 1998. He wrote that the State Department would consult with Congress about absorbing parts of USAID and shutting down the rest. The foreign aid freeze and potential USAID shutdown have prompted multiple legal challenges. Nichols' order comes a day after a different judge, who is presiding over lawsuits brought against the administration by foreign aid contractors and grant recipients, for the second time ordered the administration to resume payments on frozen contracts and grants after it failed to comply with an earlier order. *Reuters* *Liverpool Draw PSG, Arsenal Face PSV, Villa Meet Club Brugge In Last 16* Premier League leaders Liverpool will face Paris St-Germain in the Champions League last 16, while Arsenal take on PSV Eindhoven and Aston Villa face Club Brugge. Holders Real Madrid - who knocked out Manchester City in the knockout phase play-offs - face local rivals Atletico Madrid and Bayern Munich play Bayer Leverkusen in an all-Germany affair. It will be the first time Liverpool have faced PSG since 2018-19, when the Reds went on to be crowned champions of Europe for the sixth time. The winners of that tie will face Aston Villa or Club Brugge in the quarter-finals, while Arsenal will meet record 15-time winners Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid in the last eight - should they get past PSV. The two-legged last 16 ties will be played on 4-5 March and 11-12 March. Club Brugge v Aston Villa - First leg: 4 March (17:45 GMT), Second leg: 12 March (20:00 GMT) Real Madrid v Atletico Madrid - First leg: 4 March (20:00 GMT), Second leg: 12 March (20:00 GMT) Borussia Dortmund v Lille - First leg: 4 March (20:00 GMT), Second leg: 12 March (17:45 GMT) PSV Eindhoven v Arsenal - First leg: 4 March (20:00 GMT), Second leg: 12 March (20:00 GMT) Feyenoord v Inter Milan - First leg: 5 March (17:45 GMT), Second leg: 11 March (20:00 GMT) Paris St-Germain v Liverpool - First leg: 5 March (20:00 GMT), Second leg: 11 March (20:00 GMT) Bayern Munich v Bayer Leverkusen - First leg: 5 March (20:00 GMT), Second leg: 11 March (20:00 GMT) Benfica v Barcelona - First leg: 5 March (20:00 GMT), Second leg: 11 March (17:45 GMT) Premier League leaders Liverpool against defending French champions PSG promises to be an intriguing tie. PSG looked to be heading out of the competition before a late run of form saw them finish 15th in the league phase. They lost to Arsenal before defeating Manchester City to set up an all-France knockout phase play-off with Brest which they won 10-0 on aggregate. PSG have Ousmane Dembele, one of the in-form goalscorers in Europe right now, with six goals in this season's competition. Liverpool have not won any of their past five away games against French clubs, since a Champions League victory against Marseille in 2008. "At this stage of the competition, the quality of opponent is only going to be of a very high standard and in PSG we have drawn a team and a club with real European pedigree," said Liverpool boss Arne Slot. "They qualified for the last 16 of the Champions League in style earlier this week with a big win against Brest and they had some really good results in the league phase, defeating Stuttgart, Manchester City, Girona and Salzburg." If Liverpool get past Luis Enrique's side, then they will face Premier League rivals Aston Villa in April as long as they see off defending Belgian champions Club Brugge, who finished 24th in the league phase before defeating Atalanta in the knockout phase play-offs. However, Club Brugge beat Villa in the league phase, one of only two defeats suffered by Unai Emery's side. "I'm really happy because we are going to enjoy this moment with our supporters," said Emery about the tie. Arsenal's opponents PSV Eindhoven are defending Dutch champions, who defeated an under-strength Liverpool side 3-2 in January on their way to finishing 14th in the league phase. The Gunners have beaten PSV three times in the group stages of the Champions League, with their most recent victory a 4-0 home win last season. "We know what we are facing," said boss Mikel Arteta. "We've played against them, they're a really good team. When you are at this stage every team is really good." *BBC*

*Evening News Round-up:Friday 21 February 2025* *Headlines* *Police Once Again Launch Hunt For Journalist Who Aired Geza’s Recordings* *2030 Agenda: Is Mnangagwa Being Sincere?* *Mnangagwa's Words vs Actions: A Tale of Deception?* *Bodies Of 90 Illegal Stilfontein Miners Remain Unclaimed* *Mt Hampden Residents Facing Displacement To Make Way For Cyber City plead For Clarity From Govt* *South Africa Invites Ukraine's Zelensky For State Visit* *Ugandan Opposition Politician Charged With Treason* *Rwanda Angered By US Sanctions Over DR Congo Violence* *US Aid Freeze Sows Disruption In HIV, Malaria Product Supply Chains* *Hamas Official Blames Netanyahu For Crisis Over Return Of Shiri Bibas’s Body* *Apple Pulls End-to-end Cloud Encryption Feature In UK* *Man Utd Have 'More Problems Than Solutions': Amorim* Join our *Ad-free* News Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VacXkvFJJhzd2UoZYF1F *Stories in Detail:* *Police Once Again Launch Hunt For Journalist Who Aired Geza’s Recordings* Police have launched a manhunt for Heart and Soul TV (HSTV) journalist Blessed Mhlanga who has aired recordings of war veteran Blessed Geza demanding President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s immediate resignation. Geza has gone into hiding with police also launching a hunt for the outspoken ally of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga. In his interviews with Mhlanga and at press conferences also aired by the prominent journalist, Geza has made blunt comments about Mnangagwa’s controversial bid to cling to power beyond 2028, the time his constitutionally mandated two terms lapse. VP Chiwenga’s faction is fiercely opposed to Mnangagwa’s unpopular manoeuvres. In a statement on Friday, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said police were keen to question Mhlanga on “allegations of violating Section 164 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, Chapter 9:23.” The section pertains to the unlawful transmission of a data message to any individual, group, or the public, with the intent to incite acts of violence using a computer or information system. The cited law was amended by the Cyber and Data Protection Act. However, in a post on social media, Mhlanga denied he was on the run, saying he would visit the police on Monday. “Having read the @PoliceZimbabwe statement, having presented myself twice after being requested. I have called Commissioner Nyathi & assured him that I will be at CID by 9 am on Monday as I am currently unwell. I am not on the run. I have always complied to lawful orders,” Mhlanga said. *ZimLive* *2030 Agenda: Is Mnangagwa Being Sincere?* Assessing the sincerity of Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s repeated statements about stepping down in 2028 is a complex matter, as it hinges on his actions, the political context, and the dynamics within his party, ZANU-PF, rather than just his words. Mnangagwa has consistently claimed to be a "constitutionalist," emphasizing that he will respect Zimbabwe’s constitutional two-term limit, which ends in 2028. He has made this point multiple times—addressing journalists in China in September 2024, speaking to editors in Harare in February 2025, and rejecting party resolutions to extend his tenure, such as at the ZANU-PF Annual Conference in October 2024. He’s even said, “I already know the date I am stepping down. In 2028, I am going home, and others will take over.” On the surface, this sounds like a firm commitment. However, there are reasons to question whether he means it. For one, ZANU-PF has a history of bending constitutional rules to cling to power—look at Robert Mugabe’s 37-year rule, which only ended via a coup Mnangagwa himself helped orchestrate in 2017. Within the party, factions have pushed a “2030 agenda” to extend his rule, with provincial leaders and MPs like Energy Mutodi openly calling for constitutional amendments to either stretch term lengths or scrap limits altogether. Mnangagwa hasn’t exactly cracked down on these voices. He’s criticized them vaguely, saying things like “some in ZANU-PF are not ZANU-PF,” but he hasn’t disciplined key proponents or shut down the debate decisively. This could suggest he’s keeping his options open, testing the waters while maintaining plausible deniability. Then there’s the political reality: Mnangagwa, now 82, governs a fractured party and a struggling country. His 2023 re-election was marred by fraud allegations and condemned by observers like the Southern African Development Community (SADC), yet he held on. Staying beyond 2028 might appeal to him if he fears losing influence or facing accountability for alleged corruption and human rights abuses—things the U.S. sanctioned him for in 2024, citing gold and diamond smuggling networks he’s accused of shielding. His reluctance to groom a clear successor, like Vice President Constantino Chiwenga (who some see as a rival), adds to the skepticism. If he were serious, wouldn’t he be preparing the ground for a smooth handover? On the flip side, he might genuinely want out. At his age, after decades in the game—guerrilla fighter, Mugabe’s enforcer, coup leader—retirement could be appealing. His public rejections of the 2030 push might be a signal to the military and international community that he won’t risk instability or sanctions by overstaying. Zimbabwe’s constitution is clear: two five-year terms max, no extensions for someone in his position. Amending it requires a two-thirds parliamentary majority and a referendum—tough hurdles given opposition resistance and public discontent over the economy. So, is he sincere? It’s a toss-up. His words align with a constitutional exit, but his inaction against the 2030 crowd and the party’s track record suggest he could pivot if the incentives shift—say, if factions loyal to him gain traction or if Chiwenga’s camp weakens. Critics like Fadzayi Mahere have called it a “public stunt,” pointing out that a parliamentary super-majority could still change the rules. Without stronger moves to lock in his departure—like naming a successor or crushing the extension talk—it’s hard to take his pledge at face value. History shows ZANU-PF leaders don’t easily let go of power voluntarily. I’d say watch his actions, not his speeches, over the next three years. That’ll tell the real story. *Mnangagwa's Words vs Actions: A Tale of Deception?* President Emmerson Mnangagwa's words have become increasingly unreliable, and it's easy to see why. Despite his repeated claims that he won't seek a term extension to 2030, his loyalists are singing a different tune. In fact, Information Minister Jenfan Muswere has hinted that constitutional amendments to extend Mnangagwa's rule are already in the works. This blatant discrepancy between Mnangagwa's words and his party's actions has raised eyebrows. Why hasn't he publicly condemned those pushing for a term extension? His silence is deafening, and it's hard not to wonder if he's being dishonest about his intentions. To make matters worse, Zanu PF secretary for war veterans Douglas Mahiya has threatened war veterans who oppose Mnangagwa's extended stay in office. This kind of intimidation tactic only adds to the perception that Mnangagwa's words are empty and lacking in sincerity. As the saying goes, "actions speak louder than words." In this case, Mnangagwa's actions – or rather, his lack thereof – are screaming louder than his words. It's no wonder that many people are questioning his trustworthiness. *Bodies Of 90 Illegal Stilfontein Miners Remain Unclaimed* Only three of the 93 illegal miners who died at Stilfontein have been claimed by their families so far, North West police say The remaining bodies are still at state mortuaries as no next of kin have come forward to claim them since police asked relatives to help identify them three weeks ago. Ten of the bodies were identified through police records which showed they had been arrested before, while 80 are still unidentified. Police spokesperson Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said DNA samples were obtained from the bodies and fingerprints were taken for comparison. “This process resulted in the identification of 10 bodies through previous arrests in the country,” he said. “The 10 were identified through the police database, which showed they were arrested in Jane Furse, Burgersfort, Welkom, Barberton and Kwa-Mhlanga.” Mokgwabone confirmed that one is South African, seven are from Mozambique and the others from Lesotho and Zimbabwe. He did not have information about their previous charges. . “We have their particulars, but they are not yet identified by their families,” he said. Mokgwabone said the bodies that had been claimed were handed over to their relatives, who are all from Mozambique. North West department of health spokesperson Lucas Mothibedi said they will keep the bodies and will only bury them as paupers after police have exhausted all avenues to find their next of kin. “The law does permit us to keep them for 30 days when there are no issues — i.e. police investigations, outstanding legal documentations, and no court battles/litigations. But in a unique case like this one, we can keep them as long as all avenues have not been fully explored,” he said. “Without presuming, we will be guided by the police. Once they are satisfied that there’s no hope, we will archive the DNA and then proceed with paupers’ funerals. The objective here is to ensure we find families — burying them is the last resort. We have enough space to keep them.” Mokgwaabone said people with missing relatives who know or suspect they worked in and around Khuma/Stilfontein as zama zamas and have not seen or heard from them for some time were requested to contact the investigation team at Stilfontein police station. “This led to us obtaining 45 control samples — 18 from Mozambican nationals, six from Lesotho nationals, eight from Zimbabweans, 12 from South Africans and one from a Botswana national.” *NewZW* *Mt Hampden Residents Facing Displacement To Make Way For Cyber City plead For Clarity From Govt* TURNER farm residents in Mt Hampden, who are facing displacement to pave way for the development of the new multi-million-dollar Zim Cyber City project, 26 kilometres northwest of Harare, are appealing to the government to provide a clear timeline for their relocation. The displacement will affect thousands of residents, but the affected persons say the uncertainty is hindering them from making long-term plans. The cyber city, estimated to cost around US$60 billion when complete, will be part of Zimbabwe’s proposed new administrative capital, also known as New Harare. As a precursor to the evictions, the government unilaterally exhumed about 1 000 graves between June and August last year, to pave way for the project. The cyber city is being developed by United Arab Emirates-based industrial conglomerate Mulk International, which has injected an initial US$500 million. An investigation conducted by NewZimbabwe.com, in conjunction with Information for Development Trust last year, revealed the community was in panic and fear as it faced eviction, relocation uncertainty, and job losses. The residents, many of whom have lived in the area for decades have nowhere else to go. Tamira Rufaso (40) said she and other residents were anxious because they do not know what lies ahead for them. “We are just hanging, waiting for something to happen, we are living on the edge,” she said. The Ministry of Local Government last year told this publication that affected residents would be moved by mid-2025 and that the government would find them a place to settle. Residents however say they have not been formally informed of the relocation. Cosmas Mandipwanya, who has been living in Mt Hampden since 1994, pleaded with the government to communicate its position. “We are pleading with the government to at least give us enough information. They should give us the timelines so that we know when we are leaving and where we are going so that we can plan using the government’s calendar,” he said. “Right now, I cannot even do a six-month or one-year project because we are scared that anytime we may be evicted. “Kungonzwa mota ichiuya wakutofunga kuti wavingwa kuzodzingwa (each time you see a vehicle approaching, you think they have come to evict you),” he said. Another resident, Amos Basi (48), said residents can’t plan. “We are waiting to hear from the government. We have children to provide for, and right now we cannot even plan for the future. We can’t even do our small projects like chicken rearing or gardens” Basi said. Residents also said they were anxious about the impact the evictions would have on their children’s education. “I have grandchildren in exam classes, some in primary school and another one in secondary school, and I am scared that we may get evicted before they write exams. If that happens, what will I do with them? Where will they go and learn? Ephraim Kurushiwe (62), who has called Mt Hampden home since 1997, said his biggest fear is the risk of being homeless at an old age. “I am asking the government to give us accommodation when they move us,” he said. Meanwhile, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s spokesperson, George Charamba, dismissed the residents’ plight on one of his X handle in November last year. “Some stories hadzina mushumo, (are useless). Imagine a story featuring one seemingly distressed farm laborer standing in front of some dingy tenement of one room, all against a headline which says, thousands in distress from displacement by proposed Cyber City! “The solution implied in the article is that the Cyber City, which, like all cities, will house millions, has to wait for the sake of this wretch and his equally wretched tenement. “Tinombofungawo here tisati tanyora zvinyaya zvedu, nhai vanyori nevapepeti venhau (do you think before writing your stories) or we just believe in obstructive journalism, however stupid and futile?” Charamba wrote. Efforts to get a comment from the local government ministry were fruitless. The ministry’s spokesperson Gabriel Masvora kept saying he was looking for the information. Most of the affected residents have no other place to go, as they are mainly children of deceased farm workers originally from Mozambique, Malawi, and Zambia, with some from Zimbabwe. Between the early 1900s and the mid-1960s, a significant number of people migrated from Malawi (then known as Nyasaland) to Zimbabwe (then Rhodesia) for various reasons, including the pursuit of higher-paying jobs. Nyasaland, like Zimbabwe, was a British colony but was more densely populated and less economically developed. This economic disparity prompted many to move in search of better employment opportunities. During the same era, Zimbabwe also drew labourers from Mozambique and Zambia. *NewZW* *South Africa Invites Ukraine's Zelensky For State Visit* South Africa is set to host Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky on a state visit, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed on X without giving a specific date. The invite comes at the end of a week which saw Kyiv excluded from US-Russia talks on how to bring an end to the three-year war in Ukraine. In a phone conversation, Ramaphosa and Zelensky "agreed on the urgent need for an inclusive peace process", according to a statement from the South African president. A sentiment Zelensky echoed by saying "nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine". South Africa, which has in the past been accused of having a closer relationship with Moscow, has tried to play a role in finding an end to the fighting. In 2023, Ramaphosa led a delegation consisting of seven African countries, including Egypt, Senegal, Zambia, and Uganda, and met Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin. South Africa has historic ties with Russia, and both countries form part of the influential Brics bloc - an alliance of major economies that also includes Brazil, India and China. Ramaphosa, in a post shared on his X page, said: "I welcome the constructive engagement I had with President [Zelensky] and I look forward to hosting him in South Africa soon for a state visit." Zelensky, on his part, said he had thanked Ramaphosa for "South Africa's support of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity" in their conversation. "We all hope to achieve a just and lasting peace this year," he added. Ramaphosa and Zelensky have had regular conversations since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 - and have met in person - but despite Zelensky's interest in a state visit to South Africa, there has been no movement to make this happen until now. The Ukrainian leader back in December expressed his interest in coming to South Africa during an engagement with African journalists at the International Food Summit, according to South African online publication News24. "I will be in Pretoria with pleasure, but you must ask Mr Ramaphosa because I think he is more busy," he told the publication. Dr Oscar van Heerden, a political analyst at the University of Johannesburg, hailed the planned state visit as a "brilliant" move by South Africa – because it not only allows Kyiv a platform to express its concerns amid the US-Russia talks but sends "a number of messages globally". "Ramaphosa is being clever because [US President Donald] Trump might want to dismiss South Africa as a... small African country but we are yet again able to demonstrate that we can operate above our station internationally." He added that Zelensky may be appealing to South Africa due to the country's relationship with Russia and its role as an "honest broker" with no vested interest in the war. Zelensky's continued engagement with world leaders comes amid its increasingly tense relationship with the US, which it considers a key ally. The tension took a turn for the worse this week when Trump accused Zelensky of being a a "dictator" who has "done a terrible job". South Africa's invite also comes at a time of increasingly strained relations with the US. The Trump administration recently cut off aid to the country over a new land expropriation law. Ramaphosa has said that his country "will not be bullied". *BBC* *Ugandan Opposition Politician Charged With Treason* A Ugandan magistrates' court charged detained opposition politician Kizza Besigye with treason on Friday, rejecting his lawyer's pleas that he be transferred to hospital to help him recover from ill health stemming from a hunger strike. The 68-year-old opponent and critic of longtime President Yoweri Museveni appeared in court in the capital Kampala on Friday looking frail and in a wheelchair. He was briefly hospitalised at the weekend and a government minister this week said his health condition was alarming. His lawyers say he was "kidnapped" in Kenya's capital Nairobi with his aide Obed Lutale in November and returned to Uganda, where they were charged with offences including illegal weapons possession and treachery in a military court. His wife said on February 12 that he had begun a hunger strike over his detention. His lawyer said on Friday he had now ended it because his case had been transferred to a civilian court following a Supreme Court ruling on January 31 that trying civilians in military courts was unconstitutional. The magistrates' court issued new charges, of treason and the concealment of treason - what it said were efforts to overthrow the government - but declined to allow Besigye to enter a plea because the offences can only be tried by a higher court. He did not respond to the earlier charges as he viewed them as illegal. His continued incarceration has elicited anger among Ugandans and sparked some protests. The 56-member-state Commonwealth has called for his release. Critics of Museveni, who took power in 1986, say Besigye's detention is the latest example of hardening authoritarianism ahead of an election next year in which the president is expected to stand again. Officials deny accusations of human rights violations and say those detained are afforded due process through the courts. Erias Lukwago, one of Besigye's lawyers, urged chief magistrate Esther Nyadoi on Friday to order prison authorities to take Besigye to a hospital for specialised medical care. Nyadoi said her court did not have the authority to grant such a request. *Reuters* *Rwanda Angered By US Sanctions Over DR Congo Violence* The Rwandan government has condemned the US decision to sanction a government minister for his alleged role in the conflict in the east of neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo. Announcing the financial sanctions on Thursday, the US Treasury Department said Rwanda's Minister of State for Regional Integration James Kabarebe, a former army chief, was central to his country's support for the M23 rebel group. Also sanctioned was Lawrence Kanyuka, the M23's spokesman, as well as two companies he controls in Britain and France, the US Treasury said. On Friday, the UK said there would be "consequences" for Rwanda over its alleged role in DR Congo. Responding to the US move, Rwanda's foreign ministry said the sanctions would not resolve the conflict in the DR Congo, terming them "unjustified and unfounded". They come as the M23 appears to be continuing its advance after capturing two major cities in recent weeks in the mineral-rich east of DR Congo. The rebel group, mainly comprised of ethnic Tutsis, has seized the cities of Goma and Bukavu - sparking a major humanitarian crisis that left families devastated. Western powers have accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 with arms and as well as backing from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), accusations Rwanda denies. The Treasury Department on Thursday said Kabarebe was sanctioned because "he is central to Rwanda's support" for the M23 armed group. It said Kabarebe together with Kanyuka were "linked to violence and human rights abuses" in DR Congo. "Today's action underscores our intent to hold accountable key officials and leaders like Kabarebe and Kanyuka, who are enabling the RDF and M23's destabilizing activities in the eastern DRC," said Bradley Smith, acting Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence. "The United States remains committed to ensuring a peaceful resolution to this conflict." But Rwanda dismissed the US action, saying Kigali's aim was only to secure its border and an "irreversible end to the politics of armed ethnic extremism in our region". "Rwandans have the right to live in peace and without the perpetual threat of insecurity originating from the DRC," the ministry statement stated. "Punitive measures, including sanctions, make no contribution toward long-term security, peace and stability for all the countries of the Great Lakes region," it added. DR Congo welcomed the US sanctions, saying it wanted to see more such measures. "This marks the beginning of a long series of sanctions that we want to be more robust from the UN Security Council, the European Union and other partners in order to force Rwanda to withdraw its troops and cease its criminal activities on our soil," government spokesman Patrick Muyaya said in a statement posted on social media. Addressing G20 foreign ministers in South Africa on Friday, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy termed the reported involvement of Rwandan troops a "blatant breach of the UN Charter which risks spiralling into a regional conflict". Speaking at the venue Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira condemned the recent attacks on the UN forces and regional peacekeepers in DR Congo. On its part, China maintained that it "firmly supports the African people in independently resolving African problems and opposes external interference in the internal affairs of African countries". *BBC* *US Aid Freeze Sows Disruption In HIV, Malaria Product Supply Chains* The U.S. government's foreign aid freeze has upended the supply chain for medical products crucial for fighting diseases including HIV and malaria in some of the world's poorest countries, and life-threatening gaps could persist for months, according to two sources familiar with the sector. The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) usually places around $600 million of orders annually for products such as medicines, diagnostic tests and equipment like bed nets, as part of one of its biggest health supply contracts including HIV, malaria and reproductive health. But the freeze has put orders and forecasts, particularly those made months in advance, on hold. That will likely have far-reaching implications for deliveries, cost, and timings, according to two sources with knowledge of the global health supply chain and others working in the sector. Companies including the U.S. firm Abbott Switzerland's Roche and India's Cipla are all likely to be affected, alongside others including Hologic Viatris Hetero and Aurobindo the first of the sources told Reuters. "We are monitoring the situation closely. Our highest priority is to ensure that patients have continuous access to our diagnostic tests and treatments around the world," said a Roche spokesperson in response to Reuters' questions. The other companies either declined to comment or did not respond. The U.S. State Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The first source said waivers from the U.S. government, intended to allow lifesaving work to restart, only applied to orders already moving around the world. Even those were not fully functional as the USAID payment system remained down, he said. Future funding and orders were more uncertain, even for companies where the raw materials have been assembled or the manufacturing capacity booked, he added. Medicines and diagnostic tests for HIV and malaria, as well as preventive tools like bed nets and contraceptives, could be impacted, he said. "There will be a huge backlog," said Fitsum Lakew Alemayehu, the African Union liaison manager at WACI Health, an African advocacy organization. "In Africa, millions have been on those treatments." The dismantling of USAID has already had significant impact across the globe, including shuttering HIV clinics, stranding emergency food aid, and halting research., opens new tab For medical supplies, the freeze could also hit prices, because companies have been able to operate more efficiently knowing that they would continue to get orders from USAID, all of the sources said. Prashant Yadav, a medical supply chain expert and senior fellow at the nonpartisan Council on Foreign Relations think tank, said the upheaval could upend this system of advance demand forecasts entirely, hitting prices and ultimately risking budget shortfalls across other buyers, like governments and global health funders. He said it was an example of the "bullwhip" effect in supply chains, where "any small changes, even if they are for a short duration of time, get amplified at every level in the system". The term is derived from a scientific concept in which movements of a whip are amplified from the origin - the hand cracking the whip - to the endpoint. Even if the aid freeze ends after a 90-day review, as the Trump administration originally suggested, restarting production will be complex and there could be legal issues, several experts said. "This is a huge mess to untangle," said Tom Cotter, chief executive officer at Health Response Alliance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring equitable access to health services during emergencies. *Reuters* *Hamas Official Blames Netanyahu For Crisis Over Return Of Shiri Bibas’s Body* Hamas official Taher al-Nunu has accused the Israeli prime minister of perpetuating a “series of lies” in the ongoing dispute over the return of the body of Israeli captive Shiri Bibas. “We say clearly that we are committed to the agreement. Mistakes can happen. We are investigating this matter,” al-Nunu told our colleagues at Al Jazeera Arabic. Al-Nunu blamed Netanyahu for the current crisis, saying Hamas had offered to release captives early in the war in exchange for a ceasefire but the Israeli leader rejected the proposal. “At that time, all the civilian hostages were alive,” al-Nunu said. The Hamas official also criticised Netanyahu for his refusal to extend the first truce in November 2023 to allow for the return of civilian captives, including those killed. “Netanyahu refused to extend the truce for only one more day for Israel to get some of the civilians, including the bodies of the Bibas family,” he said. *Aljazeera* *Apple Pulls End-to-end Cloud Encryption Feature In UK* Apple is dropping its most advanced, end-to-end security encryption feature for cloud data in the UK, the company said on Friday in an unprecedented move after reports that the government demanded a backdoor for user data access. Advanced Data Protection, an optional feature that adds end-to-end encryption for security across a wide range of user data, is no longer available in the UK for new users and current UK users will eventually need to disable this security feature, Apple said. Governments routinely ask technology companies for user data to crack criminal cases, but Britain's demand, issued last month, is seen as particularly sweeping. Britain issues such notices under its Investigatory Powers Act of 2016, which combined various existing powers on intercepting and obtaining communications. While security officials say data encryption features make it harder to catch criminals, tech companies have long guarded their users' right to privacy. "We are gravely disappointed that the protections provided by ADP will not be available to our customers in the UK given the continuing rise of data breaches and other threats to customer privacy," the company said in a statement. Britain had ordered Apple to give it unprecedentedly broad access to encrypted user data stored on Apple's data cloud, the Washington Post newspaper reported earlier in February. "We do not comment on operational matters, including for example confirming or denying the existence of any such notices," a spokesperson for Britain's interior ministry, or Home Office, said. Apple has criticized a bill from the UK Parliament seeking access to user data as "unprecedented overreach". The company has also fended off government attempts in the past including in 2016 when law enforcement agencies tried to force Apple to unlock the encrypted iPhone of one of the San Bernardino shooters. Apple reiterated on Friday that it would never build a back door into its technology. The move to stop offering ADP in the UK would not affect Apple services that are end-to-end encrypted by default such as its Health app, iMessage and FaceTime. *Reuters* *Man Utd Have 'More Problems Than Solutions': Amorim* Manchester United currently have "more problems than solutions", says head coach Ruben Amorim. The Red Devils suffered a 1-0 defeat at Tottenham on Sunday, taking their tally to 12 Premier League defeats in 25 matches so far this season. They have won only four of the 14 league games since Amorim took charge in November and travel to Everton on Saturday (kick-off 12:30 GMT), with the Toffees rejuvenated since David Moyes - who succeeded Sir Alex Ferguson as Manchester United manager - took charge. Much has been made about United's issues at both ends of the pitch - keeping only seven clean sheets at the back and netting just 28 goals up front. Asked what is working for his side at the moment, Amorim told BBC Sport: "What I feel is that sometimes you don't feel improvement in the team but some games you think we can play and create situations. That is a good thing. "In this moment when you watch the games, you see more problems than solutions. That is clear. When we play some games, I see things are there and we are capable but we have to be consistent." Moyes won the Europa Conference League in his time at West Ham and has collected four wins in six games since replacing Sean Dyche to see the Toffees move 13 points clear of the relegation zone. Such has been Everton's improvement, they go into the game above United in 15th place. Asked what makes Everton difficult to play, Amorim replied: "Confidence. The way they play, they believe it a lot and are winning games, being really competitive, so it is an amazing job by David Moyes to recover the team. "You feel it, when you watch the game you feel the confidence and belief is there. It is going to be a really hard game." Moyes lasted only eight months at Old Trafford after replacing the legendary Ferguson at Old Trafford over a decade ago. "It shows it is a difficult job," said Amorim. "But we have to try to understand the history. This club had a figure that you cannot replace in Sir Alex Ferguson and then it is a hard job to do it. "Everything was connected with one person. When that person leaves, it is really hard. He is doing an amazing job and did do an amazing job at West Ham, and is a coach that is hard to win games [against]." *BBC*

*Evening News Round-up: Wednesday 19 February 2025* *Headlines* *Govt Says It Is “Testing Equipment” As Military Tanks Are Spotted Along Borrowdale Road* *National Youth Day To Prioritise Youth Welfare, Empowerment* *Shut Up & Just Do The Work! Uebert Angel Tells ZANU PF Faction Pushing For Extension Of Mnangagwa’s Term* *South Africa's White Farmers Would Be Among Victims If Trump Ends Growth Bill* *Netherlands To Return Stolen Benin Bronzes To Nigeria* *Attacks By Sudan's RSF Leave Many Dead As Force Prepares Political Charter* *Russian Forces Advance On Ukraine's Critical Minerals As Trump Talks Of A Deal* *More On Polio Vaccinations Planned In Gaza* *US Woman Sues After Carrying Wrong Baby In IVF Error* *Israeli Army’s Jenin Raid Enters 2nd Month; Mass Displacement In West Bank* *'A Decade Of Mismanagement': Man Utd Reveal Revenue Drop* Join our *Ad-free* News Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VacXkvFJJhzd2UoZYF1F *Stories in Detail:* *Govt Says It Is “Testing Equipment” As Military Tanks Are Spotted Along Borrowdale Road* THE military tanks spotted along Harare’s Borrowdale Road are part of a routine exercise and not a cause for alarm, government has said. This statement followed widespread speculation and public anxiety after several videos circulated online showing about 21 military tanks along Borrowdale Road, an unusual sight in Zimbabwe. The last time military tanks appeared was during the violent protests following the 2018 disputed elections and before that, it was during the 2017 coup that removed the late former President Robert Mugabe from power. Responding to concerns raised on X, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Information, Nick Mangwana, said, “There is a scheduled exercise to test equipment which is taking place today. Nothing to be concerned about.” The incident comes amid rising political tensions and factionalism in the ruling party, ZANU PF. One faction supports President Emmerson Mnangagwa remaining in office beyond his current term, while the other insists on adhering to constitutional term limits. *NewZW* *National Youth Day To Prioritise Youth Welfare, Empowerment* THIS year’s National Youth Day, scheduled for Friday, will focus on initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare and livelihoods of young people across the country. Youth Minister Tino Machakaire said the government is committed to empowering youth, urging them to take a proactive role in the nation’s economic transformation. “As we celebrate the 21st February Movement, we encourage the youth of Zimbabwe to unite and concentrate on the economy rather than getting distracted by petty issues,” he stated. “On this day, there will be opportunities for young people to exchange innovative and entrepreneurial ideas to enhance their skills and knowledge, enabling them to contribute to our great nation,” he said. Machakaire added the government would address the pressing issue of drug and substance abuse, which is threatening the future of many youths. “We are committed to launching projects that engage young people so that they have meaningful activities to occupy their time and steer clear of drug and substance abuse. “The law enforcement agencies will fulfil their responsibilities in addressing drug abuse; however, we must also empower our youth by providing them with opportunities for livelihood. “We plan to ensure that the youth can participate in various government projects, including construction and road refurbishment, to give them tangible work opportunities, regardless of the project's scale.” The minister added that reducing the high unemployment rate among young people is a primary objective for the government. “Our youth are the future leaders of this nation, and it is essential to empower them through quality education and entrepreneurial skills to shape their futures and improve their livelihoods. “We aim to promote youth-led projects by facilitating technology transfer and creating connections between technology suppliers, financial institutions, and young innovators. “This approach will ensure the suitability and effectiveness of our skills training systems and develop a youth empowerment model that addresses the issues of high unemployment among trained youths,” Machakaire said. The youth arm of the ruling party lobbied for the former president's birthday to be declared a national holiday for what the organization says was the leader's role in empowering the country's youth. The day was formally recognized as a national holiday on November 27, 2017, three days after President Emmerson Mnangagwa was sworn in as leader of Zimbabwe. *Shut Up & Just Do The Work! Uebert Angel Tells ZANU PF Faction Pushing For Extension Of Mnangagwa’s Term* PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa’s ally Uebert Angel has criticised a faction within the ruling Zanu PF party that is pushing for the extension of the president’s term limit beyond the constitutionally stipulated two terms. Zanu PF is currently divided, with one faction advocating for Mnangagwa to remain in office beyond the expiration of his current term, while the other insists on respecting the constitutional limits. These internal divisions have spilled into the public domain, fracturing the ruling party. Several government ministers, including Jenfan Muswere, Daniel Garwe, and Tinoda Machakaire, are among those backing the move to disregard the constitution by allowing Mnangagwa to remain in power until 2030. In a recent sermon, Angel who is the Ambassador at Large to Europe and the Americas, condemned the calls by these cabinet ministers, describing them as retrogressive and damaging to Mnangagwa’s reputation. “We should be talking about targets for this road. Target next week. Target next week for this one. Target next week for that hospital. Target next week for this one. “If the president has already said he is not interested in [extending his term], focus on when we are putting a road here. Some of these politicians are the ones that give good people bad names because they party at night, but we, the public, get the hangover.” “You don’t have a place to stay. People are arguing over stupid things. Is it 2030? Is it 2033? Is it 2024? Shut up. Let’s just do the work. I normally don’t comment on this. “Why do you speak for the man who has already said, ‘I’m not going there. I’m not interested in that’? Just do your thing,” said Angel. Angel made headlines in 2023 following the release of Al Jazeera’s Gold Mafia documentary which exposed him as a key player in the money laundering and gold smuggling syndicate. In the exposè he offered to assist undercover journalists pretending to be Chinese gangsters with money to launder. “I look at the political dialogue in this country, where people are fighting. They are fighting. Who said he’s going to 2030? Who said he’s going to 2018? Who said he’s going until 2033? From both sides, something is wrong,” he added. While Muswere, Garwe, and Machakaire have been vocal in their push for the term extension, their performances in their respective ministerial roles have come under scrutiny for delivering lacklustre results. Their calls also contradict Mnangagwa’s public declaration that he will not run for the presidency in the next elections, scheduled for 2028. However, Mnangagwa’s refusal has been questioned, as he has not publicly rebuked the faction aligned with him. *NewZW* *South Africa's White Farmers Would Be Among Victims If Trump Ends Growth Bill* Donald Trump's axing of aid to South Africa, in response to land reform policies he says will harm its white minority, has raised fears a trade deal may be next, though any such move would hurt the same farmers the U.S. president says he wants to help. Under the Africa Growth and Opportunities Act, South Africa gets tariff-free quotas on agricultural exports including wine, citrus, soybeans, sugar cane and beef. The Act makes up about a quarter of its $15 billion annual trade with the United States. That compares with under $440 million in U.S. aid, in 2023. "It is not clear whether the exporters are Black or white; we don't record such data," said Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist of the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa, but only a tenth of farm output is from Black farmers. "The majority of white farmers (are) likely have a significant exposure into the U.S. market," he said. Sihlobo said produce shipped to the United States makes up 4% of agricultural exports, equal to about $450 million a year, compared with 19% for the European Union and 38% to the rest of Africa. But some producers, like those for citrus fruit and wine, are more exposed - the former made $134 million in 2022, 7% of the country's total, while the U.S. is its fourth largest wine market, Sihlobo said. "It's not industry-ending ... but it's very unfortunate," said Justin Chadwick, Citrus Growers Association president, estimating U.S.-bound exports at 120,000 tonnes. "We (would have) ... to find another home for that fruit ... and our other markets are pretty full." The Africa Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA) is up for review in September. Some Republicans want to punish South Africa for land reform, its genocide case against Israel and other actions such as naval exercises with Russia and China. The U.S. State Department did not respond to a request for comment. "We urge you to revoke South Africa's preference benefits, under the Act, four congressmen wrote to Trump on Feb. 11, CNBC news reported. "There's a real likelihood that South Africa is not going to be included in a renewed AGOA," Chatham House senior research fellow Chris Vandome, said. "It's position is really fragile". Trump singled out a law that President Cyril Ramaphosa signed last month enabling land expropriation - in rare cases without compensation - after decades of voluntary purchases barely dented inequalities between a white minority who own 75% of freehold land and majority Blacks with 4%. Some farmers say the law violates property rights. Groups defending Afrikaners, descendents of Dutch settlers who make up the largest white ethnic group and own much of privately held land, have lobbied Republican politicians for years. "It was unwise. They're shooting themselves in the foot," Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola told Reuters in an interview on Monday. "If AGOA is cut, it's a cutting of white farmers." But Ernst Roets, then-lobbyist for Afrikaner group Afriforum, who travelled to the States in 2018 and brought the land issue to Fox News and some Republican officials - the year Trump first took an interest in it - said he had "no regrets." "We're hoping for pressure on the South African government to reconsider its destructive policy ideas," Roets, now part of a different lobby group, said. Not all agribusiness will lose if the Act gets chopped. Poultry farmers struggling to "compete with dumping" of subsidised U.S. chicken imports under the Act would benefit, said Marthinus Stander, a board member of the South African Poultry Association. *Reuters* *Netherlands To Return Stolen Benin Bronzes To Nigeria* The Netherlands says it will return more than 100 Benin Bronzes that British troops looted from Nigeria in the late 19th Century and which ended up in a Dutch museum. Thousands of these culturally significant sculptures and carvings were stolen during the violent destruction of Benin City, in modern-day Nigeria's Edo state, in 1897. The treasures were sold, some to private collectors and others to museums like the Wereldmuseum in The Netherlands, which has displayed these artefacts for decades. The return of the 119 artefacts is the "largest repatriation of Benin antiquities", said Olugbile Holloway, director-general of Nigeria's National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM). Despite the name, not all the statues are made of bronze. They include figurines, tusks, sculptures of Benin's rulers, and an ivory mask. They were made during between the 15th and 19th Centuries. A transfer of agreement is due to be signed on Wednesday. Mr Holloway added that he hoped this would set a good example for other countries. In 2022, Germany was the first to return over 20 Benin bronzes in a bid to deal with its "dark colonial history". "With this return, we are contributing to the redress of a historical injustice that is still felt today," said Dutch Minister of Culture, Education, and Science Eppo Bruins, reports the AFP news agency. *BBC* *Attacks By Sudan's RSF Leave Many Dead As Force Prepares Political Charter* Attacks by Sudan's Rapid Support Forces have killed more than 200 people over the past three days, activists said on Tuesday, as the paramilitary group delayed signing a political charter that could pave the way for a breakaway government. After nearly two years of war between the RSF and Sudan's army, the RSF controls most of the west of Sudan and parts of the capital, Khartoum, but has been losing ground in central Sudan to the army. White Nile state, where activists said three days of RSF attacks had left more than 200 dead, has emerged as a key battleground as the army regains territory. The attacks occurred in villages around the town of al-Gitaina, said Emergency Lawyers, a group that has monitored the impact of the conflict on civilians. One eyewitness told Reuters by phone: "The RSF attacked on Sunday morning... with all sorts of weapons firing randomly, and so dozens of people were killed instantly and more were injured." "Those who tried to flee across the Nile were shot at, drowning them," Emergency Lawyers said, in what it called "an intentional act of genocide". The RSF could not immediately be reached for comment. The war in Sudan has created what the U.N. has called the world's largest humanitarian crisis, and both the RSF and army have been accused of extensive human rights violations. The United States has determined that the RSF has committed genocide in areas under its control. The attacks came as the RSF assembled allied politicians and armed group leaders in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, to sign a charter that would provide for a "Government of Peace and Unity" to govern the territories the force controls. The charter could mark a turning point in the war, cementing a split along battle lines even as the fight for control over some areas rages on. However, politician Fadlallah Burma Nasir, head of the Umma Party which is split over whether to participate, said that the signing of the charter was postponed until later in the week to allow for a fuller representation from rebel leader Abdelaziz al-Hilu's SPLM-N. The SPLM-N is a large secular military faction that controls wide swathes of the famine-stricken South Kordofan and had not previously taken a firm position in the conflict between the army and the RSF. An alliance with the RSF - on the basis of self-described marginalised groups fighting against the powerful centre represented by the army - could boost the paramilitary's territory and numbers. "We want to build a new state, that is different from the old Sudan, which was based on separation, discrimination, hatred, corruption, and so on," said al-Hilu. Government spokesman Khalid Aleisir told Reuters: "Abdelaziz al-Hilu's group showed poor judgment when they joined (the RSF's) agenda, but we know there is external power being exerted," alluding to army accusations that the United Arab Emirates supports the RSF, which the UAE denies. "In all the areas these gangs are present, the population refuses completely for the militia to speak for them or to impose a 'New Sudan'," he added. *Reuters* *Russian Forces Advance On Ukraine's Critical Minerals As Trump Talks Of A Deal* Russia, like U.S. President Donald Trump, covets Ukraine's natural resources - and on the ground its forces are closing in on a giant lithium deposit. Trump said this month he wants Kyiv to hand over large quantities of its critical minerals in return for U.S. military support, prompting Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelenskiy to declare: "Let's do a deal." Yet as Washington and Moscow prepare for negotiations aimed at ending the three-year-old war, the reality is that it's Vladimir Putin who's taking increasing control of Ukraine's riches. Russian forces, which have already seized a fifth of Ukraine including reserves of rare earths, are now little more than 4 miles from the Shevchenko lithium deposit and advancing on it from three different angles, according to open-source data from Ukrainian military blog Deep State. Lithium is a coveted global resource because of its use in a host of industries and technologies from mobile phones to electric cars. Ukraine has reserves of about 500,000 tons, and Russia double that, according to U.S. government estimates. Shevchenko is located in Donetsk, one of four Ukrainian regions that Moscow has claimed as its own territory, an annexation that Kyiv and Western powers say is illegal. It is one of the biggest lithium deposits in Ukraine and sits at a depth that would allow commercial mining. "Given the current battlefield tempo, it's likely that the Russians will reach this area in the coming weeks," said Konrad Muzyka, director of the Rochan military consultancy in Poland, who has just returned from a research trip to Ukraine. He said the seizure of Ukraine's mineral wealth, while not the main war aim, was among Russia's strategic goals. "Ukrainian commanders I spoke to said that when they were looking in which direction and on which axis the Russians were attacking it was clear that their objective was also the capture of natural resources," he added. Vladimir Ezhikov, a senior Russian-appointed official in Donetsk, has said that the mining division of Russia's state nuclear corporation Rosatom has shown an interest in the Shevchenko deposit, but that Russia's ministry of natural resources would hand out a mining licence when the time came. "It's hard to predict when this will happen, as for now the deposit is in the 'grey zone' and there's no possibility of developing it due to military action," he told the local state news agency in January. "This deposit will definitely find its licencee. There will definitely be investment and lithium mining, and we would certainly like to see processing done here too." Russian troops have been gaining ground in the east for months, throwing huge resources into an unrelenting offensive. Zelenskiy, speaking to Reuters in an interview this month, unfurled a once-classified map on a table in his office showing numerous mineral deposits, including a broad strip of land in the east marked as containing rare earths. Around half of it looked to be on Russia's side of the current frontlines. The Ukrainian leader, who turned down a first draft of a minerals deal with Trump saying it did not include sufficient security guarantees, has said he wants to discuss the fate of resources on Russian-controlled territory with Trump. He said Russia knew in detail where Ukraine's critical resources were from Soviet-era geological surveys that had been taken back to Moscow when Kyiv gained independence in 1991. There are few reliable independent estimates of what proportion of Ukraine's natural resources Moscow currently commands. What is undisputed is that Ukraine is gradually losing control of its mineral wealth. The Kremlin's public reaction has so far been muted to Trump's attempt to lock Ukraine into a deal that would give the U.S. access to Ukraine's resources and provide $500 billion for U.S. aid that has already been given. With a Putin-Trump summit on the horizon, and U.S.-Russia talks on resetting ties and considering how to end the war underway, Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov has said only that the American president's proposal shows he wants Ukraine to pay for any future U.S. help rather than continue to get it for free. Maria Zakharova, a spokeswoman for Russia's foreign ministry, has spoken more bluntly, accusing Zelenskiy of offering Washington resources which he no longer controls given shifting frontlines. She also drew parallels between Trump's desire for Ukraine's mineral wealth and how the occupying Nazis stripped the country during World War Two. "During the Second World War, the territory of the former Soviet Ukraine was seized, and the Nazis set about plundering the republic's national economy," she told a news briefing this month. "They stole cattle from the territory of Ukraine and carted black earth away. Now all this is happening non-violently, because the Kyiv regime is giving it all away." Russian war bloggers and nationalists have made it clear they dislike what they cast as Trump's resource grab. *Reuters* *More On Polio Vaccinations Planned In Gaza* No additional polio cases have been reported in Gaza since a 10-month-old baby was paralysed in August last year, but the new environmental samples collected from Deir el-Balah and Khan Younis have confirmed poliovirus transmission, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). The strain detected is genetically linked to the poliovirus found in Gaza in July last year, so a new vaccination campaign is scheduled from February 22-26, UNICEF said. It also said the upcoming vaccination drive aims to reach all children under 10, including those previously missed, to close immunity gaps and end the outbreak – which could also spread to Israel and other places if left unchecked. Polio vaccines are safe and there is no maximum number of times a child should be vaccinated, according to UNICEF. An additional vaccination round is planned to be implemented in April. *Aljazeera* *US Woman Sues After Carrying Wrong Baby In IVF Error* A US woman who unknowingly carried and delivered a baby boy who was not biologically hers is launching legal proceedings against an IVF clinic over the mix-up, after being forced to give up custody. Krystena Murray, from the state of Georgia, became pregnant after IVF treatment at the Coastal Fertility clinic in May 2023. But it became clear that the embryo she had been carrying in fact belonged to another couple - after Ms Murray gave birth to a boy who was of a different ethnicity to both her and the sperm donor she had chosen. Despite the error, Ms Murray wanted to keep the child, and raised the baby for several months until the biological parents were granted custody. In a statement released through her lawyer, Ms Murray said: "To carry a baby, fall in love with him, deliver him, and build the uniquely special bond between mother and baby, all to have him taken away. I'll never fully recover from this." Ms Murray, a white woman, gave birth to a black baby in December 2023. She never posted photos of the child online or allowed her friends and family to see him. She eventually purchased an at-home DNA kit, and the test results she received in late January 2024 confirmed they were not biologically related, according to the complaint filed against the clinic. She informed the clinic about the mix-up the following month. It alerted the biological parents, who sued for custody when the baby was three months old. Ms Murray voluntarily gave up custody after being told by her legal team she stood no chance of winning in family court. The baby now lives with his biological parents in another state under a different name. The complaint says to this day Ms Murray does not know whether the clinic, Coastal Fertility Specialists, mistakenly transferred her embryo to a different couple, or what might have happened to it afterwards. In a statement to CBS News, the BBC's US partner, Coastal Fertility acknowledged the mistake and apologised for the distress that was caused. "This was an isolated event with no further patients affected," the statement said. "The same day this error was discovered we immediately conducted an in-depth review and put additional safeguards in place to further protect patients and to ensure that such an incident does not happen again." There have been several lawsuits in recent years brought against US fertility clinics over IVF mix-ups. IVF is a procedure during which a woman's eggs are fertilised by a man's sperm in a laboratory before the embryos are implanted into a woman's uterus. *BBC* *Israeli Army’s Jenin Raid Enters 2nd Month; Mass Displacement In West Bank* The Israeli army has continued with its large-scale military raid in the northern occupied West Bank city of Jenin and its refugee camp, forcing thousands to flee their homes. Wednesday marks 30 days since Israeli forces began their assault on Jenin which then spread to other parts of the northern West Bank, including Tulkarem and its Nur Shams refugee camp. At least 26 Palestinians have been killed in Jenin since January 21. The army has also deployed hundreds of soldiers and bulldozers that demolished houses and tore up vital infrastructure in the overcrowded camp, forcing almost all of its residents out. “We don’t know what’s going on in the camp but there is continuous demolition and roads being dug up,” said Mohammed al-Sabbagh, head of the Jenin camp services committee. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Jenin Mayor Mohammed Jarrar said the Israeli army “adopted a pattern of random destruction” in the camp and its surroundings in order to make the camp “uninhabitable”. The mass displacement of Palestinians from various parts of the West Bank in recent weeks marks the largest displacement operation in decades. The camps, built for descendants of Palestinian refugees who fled or were driven from their homes in the 1948 Nakba around the creation of Israel, have long been major centres for resistance groups fighting Israeli occupation. Israeli raids have demolished dozens of houses and torn up large stretches of roadway as well as cutting off water and power. Humanitarian officials say they have not seen such displacement in the West Bank since the 1967 Middle East war, when Israel captured the territory west of the Jordan River, along with East Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip. “This is unprecedented. When you add to this the destruction of infrastructure, we’re reaching a point where the camps are becoming uninhabitable,” said Roland Friedrich, director of West Bank affairs for UNRWA, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees. Israeli forces have also continued to carry out arrests of Palestinians across the West Bank. On Wednesday, four people, including two children, were detained from Jenin. Also on Wednesday, an elderly woman was shot in the chest near the entrance to the Jenin refugee camp. The Palestinian news agency Wafa said Israeli forces have sealed the entrances of the camp and that soldiers stationed at the main entrance have been shooting at people who try coming near it. Elsewhere in the West Bank, Israeli forces raided and demolished a home in Hebron, while military bulldozers razed agricultural land. *Aljazeera* *'A Decade Of Mismanagement': Man Utd Reveal Revenue Drop* A Manchester United supporters' group says fans must not "pay the price" for the club's financial "mismanagement" after the Red Devils announced revenues decreased by 12% in the last financial quarter. The club announced on Wednesday that revenues had dropped to £198.7m for the final three months of 2024, down from £225.8m for the same period 12 months previously. Overall, the club made an operating profit of £3.1m - down from £27.5m over the same period in 2023 - after spending £14.5m on the sackings of Erik ten Hag and his coaching staff, including the £4.1m cost of hiring and then dismissing former sporting director Dan Ashworth within five months. The announcement comes against a backdrop of the club making over 200 redundancies and raising matchday ticket prices to £66 per game, with no concessions for children or pensioners. United wrote to supporters in January to say "difficult" decisions would need to be taken as the club was "close" to breaching the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules. The club did not deny reports that it is seeking to make further redundancies when approached by BBC Sport earlier this month. It is expected by United that the restructuring decisions will lead to savings of between £30m and £40m. "Fans should not pay the price for a problem that starts with our crippling debt interest payments and is exacerbated by a decade or more of mismanagement," said Manchester United Supporters' Trust in a statement. "It's time to freeze ticket prices and allow everyone - players, management, owners and fans - to get behind United and restore this club to where it belongs." Overall, the club made a quarterly operating profit of £3.1m, which was down from £27.5m over the same period in 2023, but United said club debt increased from £506.6m to £515.7m because of "unfavourable" exchange rate changes. Included in the results is a £14.5m 'exceptional item' figure, made up of the £10.4m spent on sacking Ten Hag and his coaching staff in October and £4.1m for the departure of Ashworth in December. Commercial revenue was up 18.5% from £71.8m to £85.1m, as a result of the front-of-shirt partnership with Snapdragon. "We recognise the challenges in improving our men's team's league position and we are all working hard, collectively, to achieve that," said Omar Berrada, United's chief executive officer. Berrada said the club's redevelopment of the training ground was "on track". The £11m cost of appointing new head coach Amorim and his staff is not specifically mentioned in United's latest financial results. United sources say that cost is being spread over their two-and-a-half-year contracts. The club paid the sum to activate Amorim's release clause at Portuguese outfit Sporting while he was under contract and with the 2024-25 season under way. Sir Jim Ratcliffe, United's co-owner, has a 28.94% stake in the club through his Ineos group. The British billionaire has sought a number of cost-cutting measures in order to help the club to comply with profit and sustainability rules. Under profit and sustainability rules (PSR), clubs can record a maximum loss of £105m over a three-year reporting period. United's losses over the past five years total over £370m, but some costs - such as infrastructure costs, youth development and community spending - do not count towards PSR calculations. Since Ratcliffe's investment was announced in December 2023, United have made about 250 staff redundant. The club made two men's team signings in the January transfer window, with Patrick Dorgu arriving from Lecce and Ayden Heaven joining from Arsenal. Marcus Rashford, Antony and Tyrell Malacia all left United on loan. However, transfer activity in January is not included in the latest financial results as it falls outside the quarterly timeframe. *BBC*

*Tense Atmosphere In Harare As Army Tanks Are Seen On The Streets* Panic and excitement has gripped Harare this afternoon as army tanks have been spotted on the streets, sparking fears of a potential coup. However, the Ministry of Information has quickly stepped in to reassure the nation that the tanks were merely undergoing routine equipment testing. Despite the government's assurances, many couldn't help but draw parallels with the November 2017 coup that ousted President Robert Mugabe. The sudden appearance of military hardware on the streets was enough to send tongues wagging about a possible repeat scenario. Join our *Ad-free* News Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VacXkvFJJhzd2UoZYF1F