Thursday 13 February 2025 *💠NEWS UPDATES* *📰THE HEADLINES* *24 dead in Beitbridge-Masvingo Highway accident* *Money divides war vets over 2030 battle?* *War vets ‘fund’ launched in Midlands* *Once those War Vets say goodbye, you are gone: Former Minister and CIO operative says Mnangagwa’s days in office ‘are over’* *Geza in trouble because he was too slow to act against the crocodile- says Zivhu* *Army Speaks On Coup* *Exchange rate volatility, monetary policy impacting trade – Hippo Valley* *Implats production falls as challenges mount in Platinum Group Metals market* *Opposition lobbies for conversion of Harare Mayor Mafume’s Belvedere home into drug rehabilitation centre* *4 police officers steal 2kg of pure gold and US$57,000 cash at mbinga’s accident scene along Bulawayo-Harare road* *Private Investigator Tafadzwa Chidawa Arrested For Staging A US$20 000 Theft* *Truck drivers, mabhishu and HIV-positive Zimbabweans’ lives are now in danger as President Trump stops USAID funding* *R. Kelly’s s=x trafficking conviction upheld* *‘I want you to shut your mouth’ and ‘You are not the president; you need to go away’: Elon Musk’s son tells Trump* FOLLOW THIS CHANNEL ✅ https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaifFH90QealiZ3Gv21T *THE DETAILS WITH IGNITE MEDIA ZIMBABWE* _*24 dead in Beitbridge-Masvingo Highway accident*_ Twenty-four people died this morning when an Urban Connect bus they were travelling in collided head-on with a commercial truck at the Lutumba tollgate along the Beitbridge-Masvingo highway. According to witnesses, a Beitbridge-bound bus collided with a Chirundu-bound commercial truck that was carrying 34 tonnes of magnesium. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Beitbridge District Medical Officer, Dr Lenos Samhere confirmed that 24 people died from the collision. He said 17 people died on the spot while seven who had sustained head injuries died upon admission at the hospital. Dr Samhere said over 30 people have been taken to hospital, with 12 of them in a critical condition. _*Money divides war vets over 2030 battle?*_ President Emmerson Mnangagwa's alleged ambitions to extend his tenure beyond the 2028 constitutional limit have ignited fierce political turmoil within Zanu-PF and heightened tensions across Zimbabwe. Mnangagwa recently disbursed US$1.5 million to the Presidential War Veterans Fund, a move widely seen as an attempt to secure the loyalty and political support of liberation war veterans. Energized by the funding, Zanu-PF Secretary for War Veterans Douglas Mahiya has intensified his campaign to rally support for extending Mnangagwa's rule to 2030—a move critics label as a thinly veiled bid for a third term. However, the push for an extended presidency has met strong resistance from factions within Zanu-PF and disgruntled war veterans, some of whom are calling for Mnangagwa to step down. Leading the charge is Blessed Geza, a former Zanu-PF central committee member, who has warned of a “final push” to remove Mnangagwa if he refuses to relinquish power. Geza's outspokenness has made him a target of law enforcement. Police announced they are pursuing him on four charges, including allegedly undermining the authority of the president, insulting Mnangagwa, and car theft. Zanu-PF officials are reportedly pushing for additional charges, including murder, accusing Geza of killing an individual in a previous incident. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Mnangagwa has publicly denied any intentions of extending his rule, but his actions tell a different story. Political allies and supporters have openly campaigned for his third term, allegedly with his backing. Reports indicate Mnangagwa has been funding and hosting supporters to advance the controversial agenda, further escalating tensions within the ruling party. The internal strife has placed Mnangagwa on a collision course with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, who is seen as a potential successor and has his own ambitions for the presidency. The growing rivalry between the two leaders is fueling factional battles within Zanu-PF, with deadly consequences that threaten to destabilize the party and the nation. Observers warn that the unfolding power struggle could have dire consequences for Zimbabwe's political stability. The infighting has already unleashed widespread uncertainty, with war veterans, a historically influential group, deeply divided over Mnangagwa's leadership and the country's direction. As the push for a third term gains momentum, the rift within Zanu-PF is widening, with no clear resolution in sight. The situation has raised fears of escalating violence and further political instability, with the potential to upend Zimbabwe's already fragile governance landscape. _*War vets ‘fund’ launched in Midlands*_ President Mnangagwa’s initiative to transition war veterans from freedom fighters to economic liberators has yielded significant results, with Midlands Province receiving US$150 000. The funds, allocated from the National War Veterans Fund, aim to empower liberators through various economic initiatives and support programmes. Speaking at the event in Zvishavane yesterday, Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Owen Ncube, said it was critical to equip war veterans with skills and resources to thrive in today’s economy. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. “The President is a listening President. We told him our grievances, and today we are witnessing the transformation of words into action,” he said. Minister Ncube described the funding as a pivotal moment, asserting the Government’s commitment to ensure veterans receive recognition for their sacrifices and the means to contribute to the economic landscape of the province. Despite facing economic challenges, many war veterans expressed gratitude for the fund, highlighting the need for sustainable development initiatives. The Special Presidential Investment Advisor, Dr Paul Tungwarara, noted that honouring war veterans ignites Zimbabwe’s journey to Vision 2030, emphasising that true gratitude is reflected in actions rather than words. Zanu PF Secretary for War Veterans, Cde Douglas Mahiya, urged the liberators to transform into economic fighters. “You are the living heroes benefiting from your sacrifice,” he said. Local veteran Mrs Tendai Chitsomo said the fund represents a step in the right direction for building futures, hoping for real change in their lives. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The funds are expected to become operational within the next week, focusing on establishing cooperative societies and small businesses managed by veterans. As this initiative unfolds, war veterans remain optimistic about paving the way for a more empowered community, transforming their legacy into one of economic empowerment and self-sufficiency. The Herald _*Once those War Vets say goodbye, you are gone: Former Minister and CIO operative says Mnangagwa’s days in office ‘are over’*_ President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s days in office are numbered, according to former Zanu-PF political commissar Saviour Kasukuwere. The ex-local government minister, who has been in self-imposed exile in South Africa since the 2017 military coup that ousted Robert Mugabe, believes Mnangagwa has lost a crucial constituency from which he cannot recover: the war veterans. “Once those war veterans say your job is done, that’s the end. He’s hanging around, but the truth of the matter is he’s gone. The most critical branch in Zanu-PF is that thing called the war veterans,” Kasukuwere said in an interview with HStv released on Tuesday. Kasukuwere, a former Minister in the Robert Mugabe government and also a former CIO operative, spoke as a group of outspoken war veterans revealed plans for a nationwide shutdown to force Mnangagwa to step down. The group is led by Blessed Geza, who denies that they are acting as a front for Mnangagwa’s ambitious deputy, retired army general Constantino Chiwenga. Police said Wednesday that Geza was wanted on four charges – incitement to commit public violence, undermining the authority of the president, vehicle theft and allegedly selling three vehicles without the owner’s consent. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed it is seeking to question Geza, who has become a vocal critic of Mnangagwa and his administration. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Geza, known as “Bombshell,” has been a thorn in the President’s side, accusing him of overseeing rampant corruption and nepotism, and of plotting to extend his term beyond the constitutionally mandated limit. He has also criticised First Lady Auxilia Mnangagwa, accusing her of wasting state resources on what he deems unnecessary tours around the country. “We have called upon Mnangagwa to step down and immediately, but he ignored. The people are going to force him to step down in line with the provisions of the constitution. Mnangagwa must just go,” Geza said on Tuesday as he ratcheted up his rhetoric which has garnered him national attention. Geza, until recently a member of Zanu-PF’s central committee before his suspension, said their plan was to mobilise all Zimbabweans to reject Mnangagwa. Last week, Geza warned Police Commissioner General Stephen Mutamba against shooting any Zimbabwean exercising his democratic right to demonstrate. He said no one should even be arrested for demonstrating and warned that the war veterans will deal with the Police if that happens. “Be warned (Mutamba); if we hear there is anyone arrested for the enjoyment of his/her constitutional rights, you will see it. We will deal with you. If we also hear that there is anybody who has been shot for his/ her constitutional rights, the same rights which thousands sacrificed their lives for…,” declared Geza. He also expressed displeasure at the number of roadblocks on Zimbabwe’s roads and warned Mutamba that he should not turn Zimbabwe into a Police State. “Don’t be used by anybody on the basis that of your relationship or nepotism. I want to warn members of the security forces, in particular the Police,” said Geza. Geza delivered his most recent press conference on Monday, urging Zimbabweans to prepare for a national shutdown as calls for Mnangagwa’s resignation grow louder. “We implore you to resign peacefully. If you don’t resign in peace, people will use the constitution to exercise their right to push you out of office,” Geza said. A strong push by Mnangagwa’s supporters to extend his term beyond 2028, when his second and final term is due to end, has ignited a firestorm across the country including inside his Zanu-PF party. Such an extension, which lawyers say is almost improbable as it would require at least two public referendums, would almost definitely end Chiwenga’s dream of becoming president. Zimbabweans are wary of jumping into Zanu-PF factional fights after they backed the military coup against Mugabe, only for the party to regroup and continue its ruinous rule to the exclusion of the opposition. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Geza says that mistake will not be repeated, without disclosing further details. “We have put mechanisms to make sure the revolution will not be hijacked again. All stakeholders from various parties and civic groups will be consulted on every step we take,” he said. “We want to liberate all, so this should never be viewed as a Zanu-PF internal fight. It should never be converted into such.” Geza did not say when the shutdown would take place, only saying “soon.” “We’re going to call for action soon. Stock up in preparation for a national shutdown as we march to a free Zimbabwe. Fellow Zimbabweans get ready for action, be ready for action once you receive the signal,” he said. _*Geza in trouble because he was too slow to act against the crocodile- says Zivhu*_ ZANU PF member and former Chivi South legislator Killer Zivhu says war veteran Blessed Geza is in trouble because he was too slow to act against the crocodile. Zivhu says Geza made noise for two weeks alerting the crocodile. “This man is finished now! He took his time playing in the river waters, thinking the crocodile was afraid of him. “He could’ve crossed safely the day he entered, but instead, he made noise for two weeks, alerting the crocodile. Don’t play with crocodiles while under the influence,” he says. Posting on his X handle, Zivhu warned against picking sides quickly in political games. He says it is better to sit on the fence and then jump to the winning side. _*Army Speaks On Coup*_ The Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) has dismissed a statement purportedly issued by individuals claiming to be soldiers planning a coup against President Emmerson Mnangagwa. This comes amid growing internal rifts within the ruling ZANU PF party and escalating tensions between Mnangagwa and his deputy, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga. ZNA spokesperson Alphios Makotore told ZimEye that he was unaware of any officers involved in the alleged coup attempt. “Which officer and on what subject issues?” he questioned, before adding, “I don’t comment on such issues since I am no longer in that office. Kindly contact Defence Headquarters.” His response follows a statement released by an anonymous group claiming to represent sections of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The group, speaking in a military-style declaration, accused President Mnangagwa of orchestrating the assassinations of high-ranking army generals and warned of impending action to “protect the Constitution from counter-revolutionary gangsters.” The coup threats come in the wake of controversial statements by Blessing Geza, a war veteran and Zanu PF central committee member with strong ties to security forces. Geza has repeatedly alleged that Mnangagwa his family and thier close allies, were corrupt and are distroying the country. His outbursts have fueled speculation that discontent within the security sector is reaching a breaking point. Geza has also been vocal about the ongoing power struggle between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga. The vice president, who played a pivotal role in the 2017 military coup that ousted Robert Mugabe, is believed to be losing patience with Mnangagwa’s consolidation of power. Reports suggest that Chiwenga, backed by senior military officials, is growing increasingly frustrated with Mnangagwa’sgovernance, patronage networks, and the marginalization of key military figures in government affairs. The rift between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga has been a defining feature of Zimbabwean politics since 2017. While Mnangagwa initially relied on military support to ascend to power, his subsequent moves to sideline key army figures have deepened divisions. Chiwenga, a former army general with strong ties to the security establishment, has maintained a strategic silence in recent months, leading to speculation that he may be preparing to challenge Mnangagwa’s rule. The recent alledged military statement directly referenced Mnangagwa’s alleged role in a series of political assassinations, naming prominent figures such as: General Vitalis Zvinavashe General Solomon Mujuru General Charles Gumbo General Sibusiso Moyo Air Marshal Perence Shiri Brigadier General Armstrong Gunda Major General Trust Mugoba Major General Douglas Nyakayaramba Colonel Francis Muleya Lieutenant General Edzai Chimoyo Commissioner General Paradzai Zimondi Brigadier General Michael Chaminuka The statement also accused Mnangagwa’s administration of widespread corruption, economic mismanagement, and the systematic oppression of war veterans and junior security officers. The statement issued by the anonymous military group outlined a plan to “take action” against Mnangagwa’s government if conditions did not improve. It called on junior officers in the army, police, and intelligence services to prepare for a“constitutional intervention.” “The majority of you are living in abject poverty while the ruling elite loots national resources,” the statement read. “We urge you to defend the Constitution from kleptocratic rulers who treat the national treasury as their personal bank account.” Additionally, the statement warned key Mnangagwa loyalists, including: Owen Ncube Ziyambi Ziyambi Daniel Garwe Kazembe Kazembe Tatenda Mavetera Jenfan Muswere Businessman Wicknell Chivayo The group accused them of insulting war veterans and manipulating the security sector for political gain. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Despite the coup threats, the Mnangagwa administration has maintained a firm grip on the state security apparatus. The government has ramped up surveillance, and there are reports of increased deployments of intelligence operatives within the armed forces. Analysts warn that while the statement may not signal an immediate coup, it reflects growing discontent within the security establishment. _*Exchange rate volatility, monetary policy impacting trade – Hippo Valley*_ HIPPO Valley Estates Limited (HVEL) has bemoaned exchange rate volatility and monetary policies for creating a very tough operating environment choking trade. Last year, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) introduced the ZWG currency as the country’s lasting solution to decades-long economic turmoil before the local unit began to face inflationary turmoil just after about six months from inception. In response to the instability, the central bank unveiled a cocktail of measures, which include increasing the bank policy rate and maintaining tight liquidity among other interventions. But presenting a trading update for the third quarter period ended December 31 2024, HVEL said the business environment has remained tough. “The business environment remains challenging on the back of inflationary pressures, exchange rate volatility with ZWG currency devalued by 45% at the end of the last quarter, tightening the money supply and currency mix dilemma between the ZWG and US. The official exchange rate between the ZWG and currency and US$1:ZWG ZWG 13,56 at the beginning of the year and this eventually closed the third quarter on 31nDecember 2024 at US$1: ZWG27,09,” said the company. Policy measures pronounced during the same period to support the stability of the domestic currency, among other measures introduced at the onset to curb macro-economic deficiencies, including raising statutory reserve requirements and increasing the bank policy rate. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. “These complexities have continued to place immense pressure on the Company’s profit margins, narrowing the capacity to retool the business and fuelling the company’s foreign currency pressures due to working capital required for critical import type goods and services, cane supply and manpower costs which are largely priced in US$ from normal sales,” HVEL said. Meanwhile, the company’s revenue for the period increased by 16% from the prior year same period, driven by a strong recovery of local market sales volumes where higher price realisations are generated and the deliberate prioritization of the local market in place of the lower priced exports which saw a 53% volume decrease. The increase in the cost of doing business which largely relates to cane purchases and manpower costs, squeezed profit margins resulting in the need to refine its operational strategies and implement sustainable cost containment plans. _*Implats production falls as challenges mount in Platinum Group Metals market*_ Impala Platinum’s (Implats) production for the six months to December 2024 fell 4% to 1.8 million 6E ounces while its expects earnings for the interim period are expected to plunge despite sales volumes increasing by 5%, on the back of lower capital expenditures and expectations of a less rosy platinum group metals (PGM) outlook. Implats told Business Report last month that it expected the PGM market to remain challenging over the near term. PGM miners are battling sustained weakness in prices of the commodity, prompting many of them to institute cost rationalisation that has included retrenchments and capital expenditure cuts. Despite restructuring operations and instituting retrenchments, interim group unit costs per 6E ounce for Implats are expected to increase by 3% to R20 900 on a stock-adjusted basis. Additionally, “moderating input inflation and labour savings were bolstered by rand appreciation on the translated dollar cost base” of Zimplats in Zimbabwe and Impala Canada, said the company on Tuesday. Implats’ headline earnings and headline earnings per share for the half year to December are expected to be lower by between 40% and 49% at between R1.65 billion and R1.95bn, and between 184 cents and 217 cents per share, respectively. “Headline earnings for the period decreased primarily due to lower rand revenue arising from an 8% retracement in achieved rand revenue per 6E ounce sold,” Implats said in a trading update Tuesday. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. “Lower dollar pricing was compounded by the strengthening rand exchange rate, which more than offset the benefit of improved refined and saleable output, higher sales volumes and strong cost controls achieved in the period.” The lower earnings performance of the company for the period comes against the backdrop of a fall in capital expenditure. It said that the commissioning of various projects during the half-year meant capital expenditure fell to R4bn “due to lower levels of growth and replacement capital” as projects neared completion. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation for the half year amounted to R6.5bn. “Our expectation is that the physical market will improve further over time with an improved macro outlook, ongoing supply responses and a more pragmatic auto electrification outlook,” Johan Theron, spokesperson for Implats told Business Report by email recently. “However, the near term could remain bumpy for some time.” In terms of production, Implats’ output fell 4% to 1.82 million 6E ounces. Impala Rustenburg increased production by 2% to 687 000 stock-adjusted 6E ounces while Impala Bafokeng production amounted to 254 000 6E ounces in concentrate, “benefiting from improved efficiencies” at Styldrift. Production from Marula “remained challenged by constrained mining flexibility and organisational restructuring implemented in the period,” with 6E concentrate production declining 10% to 101 000 ounces. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The Zimbabwean unit of Implats, Zimplats, saw its 6E production in matte decrease by 15% to 280 000 ounces. This has been attributed to “accumulation of concentrates during the commissioning of the expanded smelter” complex at Selous. At Impala Canada, 6E concentrate volumes reduced by 20% weaker to 116 000 ounces, reflecting revised operating parameters and lower underground grade for the company. While Two Rivers recorded a 1% increase in 6E in concentrate production to 153 000 ounces, the company’s Mimosa JV with Sibanye-Stillwater in Zimbabwe raised 6E in concentrate volumes for the period by 3% to 129 000 ounces, despite challenges presented by power outages that are hobbling producers in the country. Implats ended the half year period under review with “excess inventory” of about 375 000 6E ounces although sales volumes quickened 5% to 1.77 million 6E ounces. This was inclusive of saleable production from Impala Canada and Impala Bafokeng. “The softer US dollar basket pricing was compounded by appreciation in the rand exchange rate and group sales revenue decreased to circa R23 800 per 6E ounce sold,” explained the company. _*Opposition lobbies for conversion of Harare Mayor Mafume’s Belvedere home into drug rehabilitation centre*_ AN opposition political outfit, Labour Economists and African Democrats (LEAD) has called for the conversion of the controversial property belonging to Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume into a drug rehabilitation centre. LEAD president, Linda Masarira this week wrote to retired Justice Maphios Cheda, Chairperson of the Commission of Inquiry into Harare Urban Planning and Governance outlining her case. She proposes to convert Mafume’s hostel into a drug rehabilitation centre rather than have it demolished. “I write to you as a concerned citizen and advocate for social justice, urging the commission to consider an alternative resolution regarding Mayor Jacob Mafume’s unauthorised hostel in Belvedere,” Masarira wrote. “While I acknowledge the importance of upholding urban planning regulations, I propose that, rather than demolishing the structure, it be repurposed into a government-supported drug rehabilitation centre to address the growing substance abuse crisis in Zimbabwe. “Zimbabwe is currently facing a surge in drug and substance abuse, particularly among the youth. “Unfortunately, there are very few rehabilitation centres available, and the existing ones are largely inaccessible to low-income individuals”. _*4 police officers steal 2kg of pure gold and US$57,000 cash at mbinga’s accident scene along Bulawayo-Harare road*_ Four police officers have been brought before the courts, accused of stealing a substantial sum of money and a quantity of gold from an unconscious driver at the scene of a road traffic accident near Selous, along the Harare-Bulawayo highway. The accused, Rudo Tafa, Daniel Mujabuki, and Musekiwa Karimanzira from ZRP Saruwe, along with Thomson Brian Chinyani from ZRP Norton Traffic, appeared before Norton magistrate Christine Nyandoro on Tuesday, facing charges related to the alleged theft. They were each granted bail of US$150. The State, represented by Thomas Chanakira, alleges that the incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning, at approximately 4am. Tafa, Mujabuki, and Karimanzira were reportedly on a morning raid deployment, patrolling the Harare-Bulawayo highway in a ZRP Mahindra vehicle. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. According to the prosecution, the officers were alerted to a road traffic accident near the Selous roundabout by a motorist travelling from Chegutu. The officers then returned to their police station to collect Chinyani, who is based at the ZRP Norton Traffic base at ZRP Saruwe, before proceeding to the accident scene. The victim of the accident, Nobizita Gatawa, had been driving a Toyota Max when he was involved in a collision near the Selous roundabout. Gatawa was reportedly carrying US$80,000 in cash and 2.16kgs of pure gold in his vehicle. He was unconscious when the four police officers arrived at the scene. It is alleged that the quartet seized the opportunity to steal US$57,000 and 2kgs of gold from Gatawa’s vehicle while he was incapacitated. The State further alleges that the officers handed over only US$22,500 to Gatawa’s father when he came to check on his son. It was during this handover that the alleged offence was discovered. The incident has raised serious concerns about the conduct of law enforcement officers and comes against a backdrop of increasing reports of looting at accident scenes in Zimbabwe. In December last year, a horrific collision between an Inter Africa bus and a stationary truck on the Harare-Bulawayo highway claimed the lives of seven people. The tragedy, which occurred at approximately 3:30 am at the 330-kilometre peg, was compounded by reports of widespread looting at the accident scene. Opportunistic individuals took advantage of the chaos and distress following the collision to steal goods from the damaged vehicles. This criminal activity not only adds to the suffering of the victims and their families but also undermines the efforts of emergency services and law enforcement personnel. The ZRP has previously issued strong condemnations of such behaviour, reminding the public that looting from accident scenes is a serious criminal offence. “Communities along highways are reminded that looting goods from accident scenes and taking them for personal use, sale, or any other purpose is a serious crime,” the ZRP said in a statement released following the December accident. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The police are urging communities to refrain from engaging in such activities and to instead cooperate with authorities in assisting victims and facilitating investigations. However, the recent allegations against the four police officers suggest that even those entrusted with upholding the law may be engaging in looting at accident scenes. The case is likely to further erode public trust in the police force and raise questions about the effectiveness of internal oversight mechanisms. _*Private Investigator Tafadzwa Chidawa Arrested For Staging A US$20 000 Theft*_ Former police officer and private investigator Tafadzwa Chidawa has been arrested after a warrant for his arrest was confirmed. The arrest stems from a five-year-old theft case involving a staged robbery at Blue Ridge Lodge in 2020. Chidawa is accused of collaborating with accomplices to steal US$20,000 in a fake arrest scheme. Several individuals connected to the case have either been arrested or are currently on the run. The Deceptive Plan to Steal from a Cheating Woman According to court documents, the complainant, Melody Matanhire, was in a romantic relationship with a man named Malvern Mutanda. Mutanda deceived her into believing that he possessed US$100,000 in soiled money that needed to be “cleaned.” He convinced Matanhire to provide US$20,000 in legitimate cash to facilitate the cleaning process, promising her a commission in return for her assistance. Under the impression that the deal was legitimate, Matanhire withdrew the funds from her home in Glen Lorne and accompanied Mutanda to Blue Ridge Lodge, unaware she was about to be the victim of an elaborate setup. Upon arriving at the lodge, Matanhire handed over the US$20,000, which was placed in a cooler box. At that moment, Chidawa and his alleged accomplices—Paradza Passmore Matubu, Perseverance Chisango, and Francis Takura—stormed into the lodge, posing as police officers. They apprehended Mutanda and seized the cooler box containing the cash. Pretending to make an arrest, the group released Matanhire and left the scene with the money. The group later met in private and divided the stolen funds among themselves, believing they had successfully executed their plan without raising suspicion. The Cover-Up and Unraveling of the Scheme In a desperate attempt to hide her financial loss from her husband, Matanhire staged a fake robbery at her home. However, detectives from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Homicide Division quickly unravelled the truth. Their investigation led to the arrest of Mutanda, which resulted in the recovery of part of the stolen money. Further inquiries led to the arrest of Takura while he was driving a Mercedes-Benz Compressor allegedly used during the crime. Police discovered an identification card belonging to Chidawa inside Takura’s vehicle, implicating Chidawa in the robbery. Chidawa, who had previously defaulted on court proceedings in January 2023 alongside Matubu and Chisango, has now been remanded in custody. He is scheduled to appear in court tomorrow as his trial continues. Meanwhile, his accomplices, Mutanda and Takura, remain fugitives, with authorities actively working to locate and apprehend them. _*Truck drivers, mabhishu and HIV-positive Zimbabweans’ lives are now in danger as President Trump stops USAID funding*_ The abrupt cessation of USAID funding, a direct consequence of the implementation of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s “America First” policy, has plunged Zimbabwe’s HIV response into a state of crisis. The temporary closure of truck-stop clinics and the scaling back of services at crucial health centres across the country have triggered widespread alarm, raising the spectre of a resurgence in HIV infections, particularly among high-risk populations such as long-distance truck drivers, sex workers, and other vulnerable communities. For years, these clinics have served as a vital lifeline, providing essential HIV prevention, testing, and treatment services in border towns, high-traffic areas, and underserved communities. They have been instrumental in reaching individuals who might otherwise lack access to critical healthcare, offering a range of services including HIV testing and counselling, antiretroviral therapy (ART), pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), condom distribution, and screening and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The “America First” policy, which prioritises domestic developments and emphasises “reasonable use of taxpayer’s money,” has resulted in a significant reduction in US foreign aid, impacting billions of dollars in funding for local civil society organisations (CSOs) and development programs worldwide. The impact on Zimbabwe has been particularly devastating, given the country’s heavy reliance on US funding to combat the HIV/AIDS epidemic. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The immediate consequences of the funding cuts have been stark. Truck-stop clinics, strategically located along major transport routes, have been forced to shut their doors, leaving long-distance truck drivers without access to vital HIV prevention and treatment services. These drivers, often spending extended periods away from home and engaging in high-risk behaviours, are particularly vulnerable to HIV infection. The closure of these clinics not only jeopardises their health but also increases the risk of transmission to their partners and communities. Similarly, Population Solutions for Health (PSH) New Start Centres, which have long been at the forefront of Zimbabwe’s HIV response, have been forced to scale back their services, temporarily halting ART and PrEP refills for patients. These centres, which typically offer a comprehensive range of integrated clinical services, are now primarily focused on HIV testing, with other essential programs such as family planning and cervical cancer screening assistance suspended. The impact of these service disruptions is already being felt by vulnerable communities across the country. Rumbidzai, a sex worker from Epworth in Harare, has been taking antiretroviral drugs since 2017 and has relied on mobile clinics for over two years to access her medication and other essential services. Now, with the mobile clinics vanished, she fears for her life. “I don’t want to die — my children are still young. Who will take care of them?” she says, requesting only her middle name be used due to concerns about stigma. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Chipo, an outreach worker who has served sex worker communities since 2015, echoes Rumbidzai’s concerns. “The sex workers are crying; they are afraid of dying,” she says. She estimates that mobile clinics in Harare alone serve nearly 6,000 sex workers, all of whom are now left scrambling for basic health care. The situation is further compounded by a shortage of condoms, which have become increasingly difficult to access since the funding cuts. “Local clinics only give us three to four strips per week,” Rumbidzai says. “In our trade, that’s not enough. People will take risks when supplies run out — something we desperately want to avoid.” The potential consequences of these disruptions are dire. Without access to HIV testing and counselling, more people will remain undiagnosed, increasing the risk of onward transmission. Without access to ART, people living with HIV will see their health deteriorate, and their viral loads will increase, making them more infectious. Without access to PrEP, individuals at high risk of HIV infection will be more vulnerable to contracting the virus. The shortage of condoms will inevitably lead to a surge in new HIV infections and other STIs, reversing the progress that Zimbabwe has made in recent years in controlling the epidemic. As Muchanyara Cynthia Mukamuri, chairperson of the Women’s Coalition of Zimbabwe, warns, “A shortage of condoms will lead to a breeding ground for infections and reinfections, affecting not just sex workers but their clients as well.” The crisis has prompted calls for the Zimbabwean government to take urgent action to mitigate the impact of the funding cuts and ensure that vulnerable populations continue to have access to essential HIV services. In a parliamentary session, Member of Parliament for Hwange West Vusumuzi Moyo urged the Ministry of Health to seek alternative funding models and to strengthen the local healthcare system. “Without funding for laboratory tests, HIV counselling and antiretroviral medications, many truck drivers and sex workers who rely on these clinics may not have access to crucial HIV-related healthcare services. In turn, this could result in an increase in undiagnosed HIV cases and the lack of consistency of the ART adherence, both of which contribute to higher transmission rates,” Moyo said. He added, “With funding cuts, the sustainability of these services is at risk and the impact could be felt in high HIV prevalence, decreased access to care and return to higher transmission rates. To mitigate these effects, it is essential to explore and implore the Ministry of Health to seek alternative funding models and to strengthen our local healthcare system to ensure that the vulnerable population continues to receive the support they need in the fight against HIV/AIDS.” However, with Zimbabwe’s economy struggling and the government facing numerous competing priorities, it remains unclear whether sufficient resources can be mobilised to fill the funding gap left by the US cuts. The crisis has also highlighted the need for Zimbabwe to reduce its reliance on external funding and to invest in building a more sustainable and self-reliant healthcare system. As Mukamuri argues, “We need to revisit our strategies, refocus our efforts, and redirect our resources to ensure that people living with HIV are not left at the mercy of whoever decides to provide — or withhold — resources.” In the meantime, vulnerable communities like sex workers and long-distance truck drivers are left to grapple with the immediate consequences of the funding cuts. They are facing increased risks of HIV infection, limited access to essential services, and a growing sense of despair. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Beauty Magora, a sex worker and community mobilizer, is worried about her upcoming HIV prevention treatment. She typically receives preexposure prophylaxis treatment every two months through mobile clinics, which provided the service free of charge. “I don’t know if there will be any effects if I switch to tablets,” she says, highlighting the uncertainty and anxiety that many are feeling. The situation is a stark reminder of the fragility of Zimbabwe’s HIV response and the devastating impact that external factors can have on the health and well-being of vulnerable populations. As Rumbidzai says, “If anything, Trump should lighten his heart, because our lives are hanging by a thread.” The long-term consequences of the funding cuts remain to be seen, but there is a growing fear that they could undermine years of progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Zimbabwe and lead to a resurgence of the epidemic. _*R. Kelly’s sex trafficking conviction upheld*_ R&B artist R. Kelly’s sex trafficking conviction and 30-year prison sentence was upheld Wednesday by a federal appeals court. Kelly, 58, claimed that federal prosecutors failed to prove he led a racketeering scheme where he recruited underage girls for sex and then violated several victims. The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Manhattan rejected his claim. “Enabled by a constellation of managers, assistants, and other staff for over twenty-five years,” Kelly used his fame to lure girls and young women into his grasp, Circuit Judge Denny Chin wrote. Jack the Ripper’s identity revealed after DNA match, historian says During the trial, Chin said evidence showed he would isolate them from friends and family; control “nearly every aspect of their lives” and abuse them. “There was extensive evidence showing how Kelly ensnared young girls and women into his orbit, endeavored to control their lives, and secured their compliance with his personal and sexual demands through verbal and physical abuse, threats of blackmail, and humiliation,” Chin said. “A jury was permitted to infer, from this evidence, that Kelly had in place a ‘scheme, plan or pattern intended to cause the (girls) to believe’ that they would be harmed if they did not comply with his sexual demands.” Kelly was found guilty in 2021 of racketeering and sex trafficking by a Brooklyn federal court jury, and jurors in Chicago convicted him on three charges of producing child sexual abuse images and three charges of enticement of minors for sex. A Chicago appeals court rejected Kelly’s challenge to a 20-year sentence in that case as well. Lawyers for Kelly did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters. He has previously denied wrongdoing. _*’I want you to shut your mouth’ and ‘You are not the president; you need to go away’: Elon Musk’s son tells Trump*_ Tech billionaire Elon Musk and the US President signed an executive order to continue downsizing the federal workforce. As Elon Musk addressed the media alongside Donald Trump, his son X Æ ‘X’ A-Xii garnered all the media attention. The four-year-old was caught picking his nose and mimicking his father's gesture in front of the media. Once, he even told Donald Trump, “I want to shush your mouth”. His actions irritated Donald Trump, who tried his best to ignore X's mischief. ‘You are not president, you need to go away’: Musk's son to Trump Videos of Elon Musk, his son, and Donald Trump addressing the media at the Oval Office have gone viral on social media. In one of the video clips, X can be heard saying, ‘I want to shush your mouth.’ This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. In another video clip from the press conference, X told Donald Trump that he was not the President and needed to leave. While Elon Musk continued his address, Donald Trump ignored X's behaviour.