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5/22/2025, 8:35:09 AM

EU Secures Over US$100 Million for Zim Banks to Boost Agriculture and Green Energy https://www.263chat.com/eu-secures-over-us100-million-for-zim-banks-to-boost-agriculture-and-green-energy/ The European Union (EU) has facilitated over US$100 million in low-interest loans to four major local banks, in a move aimed at stimulating investment in agriculture, the food industry and renewable energy, EU Ambassador to Zimbabwe Jobst Von Kirchmann has said. Speaking during a panel discussion at the EU-Zimbabwe Business Forum in Harare, Von Kirchmann said the initiative is more than just about injecting money into the economy, it's about enabling access to sustainable, long-term capital. “It’s not only about getting the money, but how do you get it? Actually, you need a bankable project. You need to be able to present your project in a certain way. That’s why we have also put in technical assistance,” Von Kirchmann said. The financing, channeled through the European Investment Bank (EIB), will benefit four financial institutions namely NMB Bank, First Capital Bank and Stanbic Bank. These banks, Von Kirchmann said are expected to pass on the benefits of the low-interest, long-tenure loans to local businesses and entrepreneurs. “So, we have signed over US$100 million with NMB (US$39 million), FCB (US$14 million), Cabs (US$17 million) and Stanbic (US$28 million). The European Investment Bank gave a loan to these banks, which has a low interest rate and a tenure of up to seven years and the banks can then use this tenure,” Von Kirchmann explained. He said the extended loan terms will significantly improve access to long-term capital in a market where lending windows are often limited to a few years at best. “Most of the banks actually have started using it with even a lower one. As Gerald from NMB was saying, there is no long-term lending available. So even if you get three years, it’s already great, and if you think about it now, if the EIB gives a seven-year loan, it means you can use it twice,” he said. Von Kirchmann explained that the loans are not grants but are tied to specific sectors with the potential to drive inclusive and sustainable economic growth. “So, it’s not entirely free loans, but it’s linked to agriculture, the food industry, and renewable energy, and then cross-cutting issues,” he said. The inaugural EU-Zimbabwe Business Forum is part of ongoing efforts to improve trade and investment ties between Zimbabwe and the European Union. Also speaking at the forum, Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) deputy governor Innocent Matshe called for a shift in the business mindset, urging economic actors to embrace confidence and resilience. “As economic agents, we need to understand that you cannot succeed in business if you are always expecting that you will fail. Let’s build upon the success that we have been expecting to be positive,” Matshe said. He said the central bank remains focused on ensuring macroeconomic stability, especially around the exchange rate and currency reforms. “The Reserve Bank has been committed to ensuring stability, and that anchors everything else because that anchors your exchange rate stability. The obtaining exchange rate stability will be sustained through the medium term, supported by strong liquidity and money supply management and increased inflow of foreign currency,” he said. Matshe added “We are trying to foster confidence and trust locally and internationally to create an environment where currency is not an issue of interest, but in doing so, we would like to build a system that everyone can trust.”

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5/22/2025, 10:28:43 AM

WASH Push Brings Change to Glen View Community https://www.263chat.com/wash-push-brings-change-to-glen-view-community/ By Elishamai A Ziumbwa A partnership between local water advocacy group, Community Water Alliance (CWA) and Zambian civil society organization Africa Manzi Center (AFMAC) is equipping members of the community in Glenview with critical knowledge on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) practices. The initiative includes a four-day workshop aimed at training borehole point officers also known as WASH promotion officers tasked with managing water access points installed under the Presidential Borehole Drilling Scheme. In an interview with 263Chat.com, AFMAC’s Tausan Tembo said the partnership focuses on empowering individuals who regularly interact with the public to become WASH educators. “We hope these community borehole officers will catch one or two things that they will help the community with towards the WASH area,” Tembo said. He said the goal is to ensure the broader Glenview community begins to appreciate and adopt better hygiene and sanitation practices through the leadership of these officers. Rejoice Nyachuru, a WASH Officer at Community Water Alliance, spoke about the importance of targeting women in these trainings. “This partnered workshop is there to train especially women so that when they meet in borehole centres they discuss about hygiene and sanitation, thus helping in the WASH area,” she said. Nyachuru said the officers are being taught not just the importance of clean water, but also practical purification methods like using bio-cent filters for household water. “We have managed to train stakeholders from different sectors towards this cause and now we are training borehole officers towards the issue of having good hygiene in different households, which is key in the WASH area,” Nyachuru said. For one community borehole officer, the training is more than just a workshop it’s a turning point. “This is a life-changing opportunity as we are equipped with knowledge needed in working with the community towards the WASH area. Before this encounter with the CWA, we did not have knowledge on how to help the people in the community, especially in the WASH area, but this is going to change because of this knowledge we are being helped with,” said Cecilia Bhotima The training is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen grassroots health resilience in the country by making safe water access and hygiene a community-wide responsibility.

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5/21/2025, 1:09:46 PM

Teen Rescue Mission Lights Up Epworth with Fun Run Against Drugs and Crime http://www.263chat.com/teen-rescue-mission-lights-up-epworth-with-fun-run-against-drugs-and-crime/ By Shalom Shawurwa A powerful community call to action swept through Epworth’s Overspill suburb recently as youth advocacy group Teen Rescue Mission, in partnership with Boys Engage, organized an electrifying Fun Run under the theme “Support the Boy Child: No to Drugs and Crime.” More than 300 boys took part in the event, which kicked off with a high-energy marathon at the Olympics Stadium in Overspill. The atmosphere was charged with optimism and rhythm thanks to the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services Brass and Instrumental Band whose performance set the tone for a day filled with purpose and unity. Participants like 17-year-old Tinashe Mazunza voiced how crucial such events are in communities like Epworth where young boys often lack the spotlight. “The gathering has brought some positivity and made me realise that I am special,” said Mazunza, reflecting on the inner battles many boys silently face, including drug abuse and mental health struggles. For fellow participant Bernard Moyo, the event wasn’t just a run — it was a life lesson. “I will always remember this program as it has brought hope in our life,” he said, his tone filled with a renewed sense of direction. The initiative’s main objective was to shift the spotlight onto the often-neglected boy child, offering not just encouragement, but a safe space for self-expression and mental health awareness. Teen Rescue Mission Director Abraham Matuka emphasized the urgent need to support young boys who are frequently left behind in development conversations. “A boy child is left behind in so many ways, so this program seeks to create an environment for them to speak out their issues openly. We want to challenge boys to be positive, look after themselves, and work hard,” Matuka explained. The event was backed by the Zimbabwe Youth Council, the Chinese Embassy in Harare, and the Chinese Medical Team, which offered free health services to residents.

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5/22/2025, 8:20:02 AM

Court Interpreter Arrested for Demanding $200 Bribe https://www.263chat.com/court-interpreter-arrested-for-demanding-200-bribe/ A court interpreter at Mbare Magistrates' Court was arrested for allegedly demanding a US$200 bribe to influence a case that is before the court. Tadiwanashe Chikomo ,25, appeared before Harare magistrate Marewanazvo Gofa facing charges of criminal abuse of duty as a public officer. The matter was rolled over to 23 May for bail ruling. Chikomo is legally represented by Tafadzwa Muvhami of Muvhami Attorneys. The complainant in the matter is Natasha Matikiti. The State represented by Rufaro Chonzi alleges that on May 14 after the complainant’s husband, Kevin Sono, was arrested and detained at ZRP Mbare for wearing camouflage uniform in violation of local regulations. His case was referred to the Mbare Magistrates' Court, where he was remanded in custody to May 19. Before the court session, Chikomo reportedly approached the complainant and inquired about her presence at court. After learning about her husband’s case, he reportedly told her that the matter was difficult and hinted that he could assist if the ruling was not favorable. He gave her his contact information. Following the court session, which resulted in Sono being remanded, the complainant and Chikomo allegedly met outside the court premises, where he reportedly demanded US$200 to "facilitate" her husband's release, including paying the fine. The woman handed over US$120, promising to settle the remaining US$80 later. Growing suspicious, the woman reported the matter to ZRP Mbare District Headquarters on May 19. A sting operation was set up using marked trap money totaling US$80. The operation was led by Assistant Inspector Jairos Makoni and a police intelligence team. It is further alleged that later that day, Chikomo met the complainant at a bus stop along Remembrance Drive, where he received the remaining US$80. As the officers moved in to apprehend him, he fled and threw the trap money over the perimeter wall of the City Council Remembrance offices. Chikomo was eventually apprehended, and police allegedly recovered the marked notes, whose serial numbers matched those of the trap money.

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5/21/2025, 1:29:08 PM

Prevail Group Leads Charge in Delivering 50,000 Housing Stands for War Veterans http://www.263chat.com/prevail-group-leads-charge-in-delivering-50000-housing-stands-for-war-veterans/ Zimbabwean war veterans are set to benefit from a major housing empowerment scheme after the government secured a deal with property development firm Prevail Group to deliver 50,000 fully serviced residential stands across the country. The initiative, hailed as a significant step in improving the welfare of ex-combatants, comes as part of broader efforts to address housing shortages and uplift the livelihoods of those who fought in the liberation struggle. Prevail Group, a fast-expanding property developer with operations in South Africa and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has been appointed to spearhead the project. The company’s chairman, Paul Tungwarara, confirmed that preparations were already underway. *Prevail Group is ready to roll out this project with speed and efficiency. We have the expertise, resources, and international experience to deliver high-quality, serviced stands complete with water, roads, and electricity infrastructure," Tungwarara said. The company, which has been growing its footprint across Southern Africa and the Middle East, brings a wealth of experience in large-scale developments, making it a key partner in the government’s push to provide decent housing for war veterans. Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, emphasized that the housing scheme was a fulfillment of the government’s pledge to war veterans. "Our liberation heroes deserve dignity and security. This initiative is in line with President Mnangagwa’s vision of ensuring that no one is left behind in national development. We are working closely with stakeholders to ensure the success of this project," Garwe said. War Veterans Minister Monica Mavhunga added that the housing program was part of a wider package of support measures for ex-combatants. Over the years, the government has introduced various initiatives, including pension enhancements, agricultural support schemes, and educational assistance for veterans’ children. "We are not just giving land; we are building sustainable communities where war veterans and their families can thrive," Mavhunga stated. While the announcement has been met with optimism, some war veterans have called for a transparent and fair allocation process to avoid past controversies in similar schemes. "We appreciate the government’s efforts, but we want a clear and accountable system to ensure deserving veterans benefit," said a representative from the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association. With Prevail Group’s track record in large-scale developments and the government’s commitment to fast-tracking the project, the initiative is expected to significantly reduce housing challenges for war veterans while contributing to national housing delivery targets. As Zimbabwe continues to seek ways to honor its liberation war heroes, this latest scheme stands as one of the most substantial empowerment programs yet, promising not just shelter but lasting economic security for the men and women who fought for the nation’s freedom.

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5/21/2025, 1:03:33 PM

E-Creator Mastermind Zhao’s Trial Set for June http://www.263chat.com/e-creator-mastermind-zhaos-trial-set-for-june/ By Judith Nyuke The trial of Zhao Jiaotong, the alleged mastermind behind the infamous E-Creator Ponzi scheme, has been scheduled for June 6, 2025. Zhao faces fraud charges totaling US$1 million. The State informed the court that it possesses 688 statements from complainants who reportedly lost money after joining E-Creator. Zhao, legally represented by Moffat Makuvatsine, is now the sole defendant in the case; his co-accused had their charges withdrawn by the State before pleading and will testify against him. The Chinese national is alleged to have fleeced unsuspecting clients through operating a fake investment project. It is further alleged that Jiaotong and his accomplices registered a company with the Zimbabwean Registrar of Companies, styled E-Creator Electronic Commerce [Private] Limited under company registration number 2853/23, with its office situated at room number 15 and 16, 10th Floor Joina City Building, Harare. They went on to launch the company as an online e-commerce operator with a global internet as its core. It is alleged that from February to July 2023, they misrepresented to unsuspecting Zimbabweans that if they invested with the company, they were going to enjoy huge monthly profits proportional to the amounts invested. As such, many Zimbabweans joined and invested up to US$1 million in total through various Ecocash subscriber lines supplied on the platform by the suspect. It is further alleged that to make the company more attractive and appealing to unsuspecting clients, Jiaotong used the social media and popular Zimbabwean socialites to advertise the business on their platforms. They also employed various agents in major towns and cities throughout the country in order to market the business.

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5/21/2025, 10:12:06 AM

Shamva South MP Josphen Mapiki highlighted the need for knowledge sharing, noting that while Zimbabwe relies heavily on Kariba Dam for power, other countries use small dams. He emphasized the importance of adopting such practices to enhance energy resilience. Join the conversation.Talk about it! @263chat news Follow the 263Chat platforms now!! @ whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va… chat.whatsapp.com/Fz5pVzOEOSJ1Dk… facebook.com/263Chat x.com/263Chat?t=3F4M…

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5/21/2025, 10:07:30 AM

Gutu South MP Pupurai Togarepi emphasized that development in Southern Africa is impossible without adequate and efficient energy. He supported the shift to clean energy sources like hydro, solar, and wind to reduce environmental pollution and combat climate change, noting that the protocol comes at a critical time Join the conversation.Talk about it! @263chat news Follow the 263Chat platforms now!! @ whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va… chat.whatsapp.com/Fz5pVzOEOSJ1Dk… facebook.com/263Chat x.com/263Chat?t=3F4M…

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5/21/2025, 12:59:25 PM

Zim Pushes for More Clean Energy in Southern Africa, Backs Regional Deal http://www.263chat.com/zim-pushes-for-more-clean-energy-in-southern-africa-backs-regional-deal/ By Takudzwa Tondoya Energy and Power Development deputy Minister Yeukai Simbanegavi says the country is moving closer to joining a regional effort aimed at boosting access to clean, affordable energy across Southern Africa. Speaking in Parliament yesterday, Simbanegavi said the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (SACREEE) is working to ensure that all member countries have access to modern and sustainable energy by 2030. “SACREEE’s main goal is to help countries in the region shift to cleaner and more efficient energy sources. This is about improving energy security and making energy more accessible to ordinary people,” Simbanegavi told Parliament The centre was set up in 2013 and 2015 through agreements made at two SADC energy ministers’ meetings. However, it’s still not fully up and running as only five of SADC’s 16 member states have officially signed the agreement and it needs two-thirds to become fully operational. Despite this, SACREEE is already helping countries build systems and test new clean energy solutions that could be expanded region-wide, Simbanegavi said. Zimbabwe is expected to benefit from shared expertise and technical support once it formally joins. “By signing this agreement, Zimbabwe will be able to work closely with other countries in the region to promote clean energy and boost our energy security,” she said. The centre, Simbanegavi said will help shape energy policies, attract investment in renewable energy projects, and provide training and technical help to member states. It will be funded through annual contributions from participating countries, channeled via national institutions. “Zimbabwe wants to formalize its involvement in this important initiative. I call on this House to approve the Memorandum of Agreement so we can officially become a party to SACREEE,” Simbanegavi said.

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5/22/2025, 5:55:48 AM

Credit Controller Busted for US$347K Theft at Varichem Pharmaceuticals https://www.263chat.com/credit-controller-busted-for-us347k-theft-at-varichem-pharmaceuticals/ By Judith Nyuke A former Credit Controller at Varichem Pharmaceutical Private Limited was arrested for allegedly converting US$347,329.99 collected from company clients to personal use. Milton Goremusandu, 42, appeared before Harare magistrate Marewanazvo Gofa charged with theft of trust property and money laundering. Complainant in this case is Varichem Pharmaceutical Private Limited, a producer of Pharmaceutical drugs in Zimbabwe being represented by its Finance Manager Joel Muswa,35. Goremusandu was employed by the complainant as Credit Controller and his duties included collection of cash from company debtors and cash sale customers and receipting the cash received from clients in the receipt books. The State represented by Rufaro Chonzi alleges that during the beginning of the month of May 2025, complainant got a tip off from a whistle blower to the effect that, Goremusandu was conniving with his immediate subordinate Edwell Sibanda, the Debtor's Clerk who has since been arrested, to steal cash from the company. Complainant reportedly instituted a preliminary investigation and discovered that, for the period extending from year 2021 to May 2025, Goremusandu had collected cash from the company customers, Trinity Pharmacy (US$252 930.25), Vidamac Pharmaceuticals (US$36 350.34), Asca Health Care (US$33 220.12) and Care Point Pharmacy Chinhoyi (US$24 829.28), but allegedly had not banked or submitted for banking the received cash. Further allegations are that Goremusandu would then instruct Edwell Sibanda to initiate journal entries debiting customers who do not owe the company and crediting the paying customers as a cover up of the offence. He reportedly used the same modus operandi, causing the complainant to suffer financial prejudice to the tune of US$347 329.99. On 12 May 2025, matter was reported to Police leading to the arrest of Edwell Sibanda at his work place on 14 May 2025. The State further alleges that on 18 May 2025, Police Detectives visited Goremusandu's place of residence and managed to recover from his wife Miranda Rutendo Mativenga, a grey Toyota Fortuner SUV estimated at US$60 000.00 and a white Toyota Corrolla. Axio, estimated at US$10 000.00. The two cars are registered in Goremusandu's and were reportedly acquired during the period of commission of the offences. It is the State's case that the total value stolen is US$347 329.99 and two cars valued at US$70 000.00 were recovered.