The National 🇿🇼 – Daily News Updates
The National 🇿🇼 – Daily News Updates
February 9, 2025 at 03:25 PM
*FOR DAILY NEWS UPDATES* *_Join our Group:_* https://chat.whatsapp.com/CmpnkkokGOsIjQZdSBo5N1 *TO ADVERTISE WITH WAZO ADVERTS* *_WhatsApp:_* wa.me/263776804293 *_We have a market reach of over 400,000 Zimbabweans._* — — — — — — — — — — — — *_EVENING NEWS | 9 FEBRUARY 2025_* *1.* Prophet Makandiwa predicts the fall of Mnangagwa *2.* RBZ confirms plan to phase out US$, have ZiG as Zimbabwe’s only currency *3.* VP Chiwenga avoids Tinashe Mugabe, secretly smuggles kids to China for DNA tests *4.* George Charamba threatens to rape human rights activist Namatai Kwekweza *5.* Zimbabwe National Army opens recruitment for officer cadets – What you need to know *6.* Tenderprenuer Wicknell Chivayo offers Highlanders lifeline after FIFA bans club over US$27,000 debt to ex-coaches *7.* Epworth faces shortage of condoms *8.* 3 dead, 5 injured in Harare-Mutare road head-on collision *_FULL ARTICLES BELOW_* _[Note: These News Articles were Compiled and Distributed by Wazo Adverts. Source is Credited at the End of Each Article.]_ 1. *PROPHET MAKANDIWA PREDICTS THE FALL OF MNANGAGWA* Controversial preacher Emmanuel Makandiwa has issued a stark warning about President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s 2030 agenda, stating that those pushing the vision lack foresight. Makandiwa’s remarks were captured in a viral video circulating on social media, where he criticized the long-term vision as impractical and detached from Zimbabwe’s current political and economic realities. His prediction follows another prophetic warning last week by Prophet Ian Ndlovu, who suggested that a coup could unfold before the end of next month. There is growing speculation about deepening power struggles between Mnangagwa and his deputy, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga. Reports suggest that a faction of high-ranking security officials and war veterans convened a clandestine meeting this week to strategise on countering Mnangagwa’s attempts to extend his rule through the #ed2030 agenda. In his video, Ndlovu issued an ominous statement: “We must continue to pray for our nation… Two trains are set to collide. I personally pray for peace for all ordinary Zimbabweans, but change must not be stopped, in whatever form it needs to come.” The intensifying political rift echoes past conflicts within Zimbabwe’s ruling elite. Historical cases such as the 2017 coup, which led to Robert Mugabe’s ouster, reveal a pattern of internal military interventions when factions feel threatened. The late former Air Force Commander Perrence Shiri, a key architect of Mugabe’s removal, was known to hold covert meetings with allies like Paradzai Zimondi and Bindura South MP Remigious Matangira. Both Shiri and Zimondi died under mysterious circumstances during the COVID-19 pandemic, fueling speculation that Mnangagwa sought to eliminate potential challengers. Mnangagwa has been systematically sidelining Chiwenga, reducing his influence in government and military structures. However, despite purging several senior military officers linked to Chiwenga, some factions remain fiercely loyal to the former general. Unlike 2017, Mnangagwa has fortified his control over Zimbabwe’s intelligence agencies and security forces, making any potential coup attempt riskier. However, history suggests that power in Zimbabwe remains unpredictable, and military-backed interventions remain a possibility if discontent within the security sector continues to rise. As the political climate grows increasingly volatile, the coming months could prove decisive in shaping Zimbabwe’sfuture leadership. Whether Mnangagwa successfully consolidates his power or faces an internal revolt remains to be seen. Zimbabwe’s ongoing power struggle reflects patterns seen in other African nations where liberation-era leaders faced internal challenges. Mnangagwa engineered a coup and ousted Robert Mugabe in a 2017 coup after years of infighting within Zanu PF and the military. His attempts to extend his rule led to backlash from war veterans and security forces. In Mozambique, Samora Machel eed Mozambique’s independence struggle but faced internal resistance from factions within FRELIMO. His mysterious death in a plane crash in 1986 remains a topic of debate. Julius Nyerere in Tanzania, voluntarily stepped down but struggled with political factionalism in his party. Nelson Mandela in South Africa, unlike his counterparts, Mandela stepped down after one term, ensuring a smooth leadership transition. In Zambia Kenneth Kaunda lost power through democratic means after years of resistance to political reform. *_-ZimEye_* 2. *RBZ CONFIRMS PLAN TO PHASE OUT US$, HAVE ZIG AS ZIMBABWE’S ONLY CURRENCY* Zimbabwe is pressing ahead with its plan to phase out the US dollar and make Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) the sole legal tender by 2030. The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has reaffirmed its commitment to the transition, urging businesses and citizens to embrace the shift. RBZ Deputy Governor, Dr Innocent Matshe, made it clear that there was “no going back” on the move towards a full domestic currency regime. He stated: “If we are going to progress, we need to put our shoulders to the wheel and get it moving. We cannot develop using another country’s currency. That is something that we need to understand and we need to internalise.” He emphasised that the shift was not a sudden event but a gradual process aimed at stabilising the economy. *2030 Deadline Still Firm* The government had initially set 2025 as the deadline for the multi-currency system. However, this was later extended to 2030 through Statutory Instrument 218 of 2023. Despite this extension, the RBZ remains firm in its vision to make ZiG the sole currency. Dr Matshe stressed: “There is no going back on the targets set by His Excellency for 2030. The Governor (Dr Mushayavanhu) has said we do not want 2030 to be an event, he means it, it has to be a process and we do not want to feel it when we get there.” He assured that administrative measures would be taken to ensure a smooth transition, driven by market forces rather than abrupt government intervention. *Strategic Measures In Place* RBZ Governor Dr John Mushayavanhu stated that the 2025 Monetary Policy Statement (MPS) aligns with the bank’s Strategic Plan (2025-2029), focusing on economic stability. “I did tell you in my maiden monetary policy that it is not my job to do other people’s jobs. We are going to do only that which is expected of the Reserve Bank in the Reserve Bank Act.” To support the transition, the RBZ has already started reducing the forex retention threshold for exporters, cutting it from 75% to 70%, with plans to further decrease it. The goal is to increase ZiG’s circulation while building reserves, which have grown from US$200 million to over half a billion US dollars. Additionally, all businesses will be required to report their financials in ZiG and ensure they have point-of-sale (POS) machines to facilitate transactions using the currency. *_-iHarare_* 3. *VP CHIWENGA AVOIDS TINASHE MUGABE, SECRETLY SMUGGLES KIDS TO CHINA FOR DNA TESTS* Constantino Chiwenga subjected his three kids to DNA tests, soon after getting his wife, Marry imprisoned. Chiwenga had at the time gotten his wife imprisoned over allegations based on distrust of her, soon after being made to believe that the same sole and first victim of the attempted assassination through a grenade that exploded under her feet at White City is the one who wants to kill him. Chiwenga started believing that the mother of his three kids is not at all a bomb victim, but an attacker who wants to kill him. This was after 4 unidentified men had travelled to his bedside while recovering in China. His belief comes just as LIVE video footage at the White City bombing on 23 June 2018, shows Marry collapsing soon after a small hand grenade had been thrown onto her legs, just after President Emmerson Mnangagwa had wallked off to a ZBC interview point. Chiwenga dodged local DNA services like Tinashe Mugabe’s show, and chose to fly his two boys and one girl to China. The three kids who are also blocked from seeing their own mother for 6 years to date, were forced for endure 11,000 kilometres, a two day journey, mid air, just to get their blood DNA swabbed. Records in ZimEye’s possession show the kids were also told to maintain the disconnection from their own mother imposed by the father. The development comes as Chiwenga prepares to be made president of Zimbabwe per demands forwarded by war veterans like Blessed Geza. Chiwenga has been contacted for comment on this matter by ZimEye, and a male aide of his responded by saying, the plight of Marry Mubaiwa does not affect the economy and so should be left for the courts to decide. He also said at a family level he has a large purse ready for any emergencies in the event of the economy crashing as a result of investor trust-loss on sanctity of life concerns. “Ini ndinogara nekatundu kangu kanoita kuti kana ndiine zvandasangana nazvo [ndakagadzirira],” he said. LISTEN TO AUDIO BELOW… Chiwenga got his wife imprisoned in November 2019 and she is currently on bail, facing several charges that were raised soon after her husband fell out with her. *_-ZimEye_* 4. *GEORGE CHARAMBA THREATENS TO RAPE HUMAN RIGHTS ACTIVIST NAMATAI KWEKWEZA* Presidential spokesperson George Charamba has threatened to rape human rights defender, Namatai Kwekweza. Charamba made the threat using one of his ghosts X handles, @jamwanda2. Kwekweza had said: “You have remained silent about your rape Case: Tell us, why are you abusing women.” Responding to Charamba former legislator and lawyer Fadzayi Mahere posted. “Dear @edmnangagwa, Is it not time to fire @Jamwanda2? He’s not a good look for you, your office or indeed the nation. “Quite frankly, his conduct stinks and his language is a disgrace to every Zimbabwean. It’s a mess. We need new leaders.🇿🇼 *_-ZwNews_* 5. *ZIMBABWE NATIONAL ARMY OPENS RECRUITMENT FOR OFFICER CADETS – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW* The Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) has announced a recruitment drive for regular officer cadets. The army is inviting young, qualified individuals to join its ranks and undergo training to become officers. *Requirements and Qualifications* The ZNA has set specific criteria for those interested in applying. “Candidates should have a minimum of six points at ‘A’ level and five ‘O’ level passes with a grade ‘C’ or better, including English and Mathematics,” reads the recruitment notice. “Higher qualifications such as diplomas and degrees will be an added advantage.” Age limits vary based on education level. Those with ‘A’ level qualifications must be aged between 18 and 22, while diploma and degree holders can apply up to the age of 26. Other physical requirements include a minimum height of 1.65m for males and 1.55m for females, as well as weight requirements of 55kg for men and 53kg for women. Applicants must also be single. *Application Process* Applications must be submitted between 10 and 22 February 2025. “Potential candidates should deposit their application letters together with certified copies of academic and professional certificates at formation headquarters and selected venues within their respective provinces and districts,” the notice states. Provincial headquarters handling applications and their contact numbers include: • Matabeleland North – Headquarters 1 Infantry Brigade (Mzilikazi Barracks) Tel: (0292 209436) • Matabeleland South – Headquarters Bulawayo District (Lookout Masuku Barracks) Tel: (0292 66687) • Manicaland – Headquarters 3 Infantry Brigade (Herbert Chitepo Barracks) Tel: (02020 63002) • Masvingo – Headquarters 4 Infantry Brigade (Vitalis Gava Musungwa Zvinavashe Barracks) Tel: (0392 263187) • Mashonaland West – Headquarters Mechanised Brigade (Inkomo Barracks) Tel: (067 2192497) • Mashonaland Central – Headquarters Artillery Brigade (Domboshava Barracks) Tel: (0242 336372) • Midlands – Headquarters 5 Infantry Brigade Tel: (05525 70375) • Mashonaland East – Headquarters 2 Infantry Brigade (Kaguvi Barracks) Tel: (0242 743446) For those facing difficulties in submitting applications, the Zimbabwe National Army Recruiting Office in Harare is available for assistance at (0242-707459) or (0242-793262). *Training and Benefits* Successful candidates will be trained at the Zimbabwe Military Academy in Gweru for 21 months. Upon completion, recruits will be commissioned as Second Lieutenants. “In addition to good remuneration, the army provides free medical and dental care, housing and transport allowances, and generous leave conditions,” states the recruitment notice. The ZNA emphasises that it does not engage third parties or charge any fees for recruitment. *_-iHarare_* 6. *TENDERPRENUER WICKNELL CHIVAYO OFFERS HIGHLANDERS LIFELINE AFTER FIFA BANS CLUB OVER US$27,000 DEBT TO EX-COACHES* Controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo has offered to settle Highlanders’ US$27,000 debt to former coach Baltemar Brito and his assistant Antonio Joao Torres after the club was banned from registering new players by FIFA. Chivayo, who made his milions in government tenders in Zimbabwe and across Africa, stepped in after the skint Bulawayo club sent an SOS less than a month before the new Premier Soccer League season gets underway. The Intratrek Zimbabwe boss reacted to a news report of Highlanders’ predicament, writing on X, formerly Twitter: “Bosso ngenkani! Iteam yezwe lonke. Babethi ayibulawe, ayisoze ibulawe sikhona. I will gladly pay this outstanding debt directly to the former coach tomorrow (Monday) without fail. Someone please inbox and share the banking details with exact amount due asap.” It was not immediately clear if the club would take him up on his offer. Chivayo has hogged headlines with eye-popping public donations to celebrities, church leaders and other causes, including over US$11 million spent on vehicles he gave away. He has previously made donations to football clubs including Highlanders, Dynamos, Scottland FC and also the Zimbabwe national team. In 2017 Chivayo settled Highlanders’ US$4,000 fine imposed by the PSL over crowd trouble in their match with Dynamos. Highlanders recently lost over half a dozen players, four of them to league debutants Scottland FC. A transfer ban before the season opener against newly promoted MWOS FC on February 23 would cripple the club after FIFA’s ban which prevents the registration of new players until the debt to the former coaches is settled. As of October last year, Brito was owed US$14,778 and US$237.71 in interest while Torres was owed US$11,788 plus interest of US$193.74. Chivayo, who is linked with South African company Ren-Form CC, has won over US$100 million worth of tenders in Zimbabwe, Madagascar, Sierra Leone and Namibia for the supply of election materials. He denies corruption allegations linked to the tender awards. *_-ZimLive_* 7. *EPWORTH FACES SHORTAGE OF CONDOMS* *CONSTITUENCY UPDATE BY HONORABLE MHETU EPWORTH NORTH MP* In my capacity as the Member of Parliament for Epworth North, I visited health centres in the constituency on January 5, 2025 to ascertain the situation at various clinics following the recent freeze on aid programmes by the American government. I managed to visit and interact with staff at Epworth Poly Clinic, Overspill Clinic and was assured that currently, there is enough medication for the 22 000 residents on Anti-Retroviral Therapy. The National Pharmaceutical Company (Natpharm) is currently supplying ARVs to the health centres and the current stock of ARVs will be informed to me later after a detailed audit and I shall keep the constituency updated. I was also briefed that at present, there is 4 months’ supply of condoms left. However I was alerted to the reduction of staff at these health centres after Zimtech and PEPFAR withdrew 6 nurses and 5 primary counsellors from Epworth Poly Clinic. At Overspill Clinic, 5 nurses and 4 primary counsellors have left while 1 nurse and 2 primary counsellors have left Epworth Mission Clinic. Currently, skeletal staff at these health centres are overwhelmed with work and the District Medical Officer made a plea for the government to bring in LOCUM staff to fill the void. As the Member of Parliament for Epworth North, I will engage various Government Ministries and Departments to ensure that LOCUM Staff is supplied at the these health centres in Epworth North. I have also taken it upon myself to engage various donor agencies and well-wishers to ensure adequate medication supplies at our health centres in Epworth North. On behalf of the people of Epworth North, I do hereby make a passionate appeal to the United States government to review its stance on foreign aid and continue to save lives. Prior notice on cutting aid- at least 24 months- would have been appropriate, since the abrupt stall of aid does not only pose a risk to beneficiaries but is also a violation of legitimate expectation. The government of Zimbabwe passed its budget in December 2024. Funds to cover this gap may require a supplementary budget which may not be possible since the citizens are already overly taxed. As the Member of Parliament for Epworth North, I would like to reiterate my commitment to ensuring residents receive quality health care. *_-ZimEye_* 8. *3 DEAD, 5 INJURED IN HARARE-MUTARE ROAD HEAD-ON COLLISION* Three people were killed and five others were injured in a head-on collision at the 118-kilometre peg along the Harare-Mutare Road in Marondera around 9 PM on Saturday. According to the ZRP, a Toyota Aqua vehicle with three passengers collided head-on with a Toyota Hilux vehicle carrying four passengers, resulting in the fatalities and injuries. The ZRP said: _The ZRP confirms a fatal road traffic accident which occurred at the 118-kilometre peg along Harare-Mutare Road in Marondera on 08/02/25 at around 2100 hours._ _Three people were killed while five others were injured when a Toyota Aqua vehicle with three passengers on board was involved in a head-on collision with a Toyota Hilux vehicle with four passengers on board._ Police added that the bodies of the victims were taken to Marondera Provincial Hospital mortuary for post-mortem while the injured were admitted at the same hospital. *_-Pindula_*
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