Friday 14 February 2025 *EVENING NEWS UPDATES* *THE HEADLINES* *Can money buy Mnangagwa a third term?* *Minister Machakaire's panicked demeanor amplifies concerns about Zanu-PF's stability* *Biti Denies Mutsvangwa’s Allegations Of Secret Meetings With US Diplomats* *Mutsvangwa Claims Mnangagwa Secured Release Of His Son, Neville, From Prison* *“Chivayo’s Reckless Display Of Wealth And Cash A Security Threat”* *Geza Puts Mnangagwa Family, Zvigananda In Panic* *Treasury Injects US$7.5 Million And ZiG$100 Million Into GMB For Wheat Payments* *Govt gazettes new education law for pregnant students to remain in school* *Tawanda Nyambirai Makes Comeback with Steward Bank Takeover* *Dad of two stoned to death in row over US$0.50: police* *Broadcasting Services Bill goes for second reading* *China establishes a ‘Defense’ Unit to counter threat of an asteroid that could hit earth in 2032* *Govt sugar import ban bears fruit* *Trial Of Former ARDA Boss Accused Of Defrauding Bombshell Geza Postponed* *City Of Bulawayo Cracks Down On Unlicensed Dog Ownership* *COTTCO Owes Cotton Farmers US$5.6 Million In Legacy Debt* *Zimbabwean CFO denied bail over fraudulent South African permanent residence permit* *Zimbabweans have penchant for sugar-rush solution of Mnangagwa must go even at the cost of retaining the dictatorship yet again: Wilbert Mukori* *Zimbabweans React as Minister Proposes Compulsory Random Drug Testing For All Civil Servants* https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaifFH90QealiZ3Gv21T *THE DETAILS WITH IGNITE MEDIA ZIMBABWE* _*Can money buy Mnangagwa a third term?*_ Zimbabwe's political arena has always been fraught with power struggles and factional battles, but the current succession war between President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Vice President Constantino Chiwenga exposes a new, disturbing trend: the all-encompassing influence of money in politics. As Mnangagwa pushes for an unconstitutional third term, both factions in the ruling Zanu-PF party are weaponising cash to tilt the scales in their favour. Yet, this reckless splurging in a nation drowning in poverty highlights the moral decay at the heart of Zimbabwean governance. Mnangagwa's camp, armed with a substantial war chest, has been shamelessly buying support. Tenderpreneur Wicknell Chivayo has emerged as the face of this largesse, handing out cash and gifting luxury cars like a benevolent Santa. The funds, allegedly sourced from corrupt state tenders and contracts, are being funnelled into political campaigns, social media influencers, and even entertainment figures, ensuring the President's message saturates every corner of society. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. However, the third term project is not just about power; it is a corruption-fueled enterprise designed to protect the vested interests of Mnangagwa's allies. The use of state resources to bankroll this campaign underscores a dangerous reality: money and politics in Zimbabwe have become so deeply intertwined that they are now inseparable. The corrupting influence of money in politics cannot be overstated. Once politicians become addicted to the financial rewards of public office, the ideals of leadership and service are abandoned. Honesty and integrity become relics of a bygone era, replaced by deceit, lies, and unchecked corruption. Simon Cameron's infamous quote, "An honest politician is one who when he is bought will stay bought," has never felt more relevant. Mnangagwa's recent payout of US$1.5 million to war veterans is a case in point. While this move may temporarily secure their loyalty, its long-term impact remains uncertain. War veterans aligned with Chiwenga have already made it clear they will not support Mnangagwa's bid, labelling him a failure and vowing to resist his third term ambitions. Historically, war veterans and the military have played pivotal roles in Zimbabwe's politics, often acting as kingmakers in internal party disputes. Yet, Mnangagwa's strategy of buying their support risks alienating the very constituency he seeks to win over. The war veterans, like many ordinary Zimbabweans, are disillusioned with his leadership, citing economic mismanagement, rampant corruption, and a worsening quality of life. Zimbabwe's dire economic conditions—characterised by sky-high inflation, chronic power outages, and widespread food shortages—make the President's extravagant spending even more egregious. The optics of distributing cash and gifts in a sea of poverty are not just tone-deaf but deeply offensive to a population struggling to survive. Moreover, Mnangagwa's push for a third term is a blatant assault on Zimbabwe's constitutional democracy. The nation's constitution limits presidential terms to two, a safeguard designed to prevent the entrenchment of power. By seeking to extend his rule, Mnangagwa undermines these democratic principles and risks plunging the country further into authoritarianism. We are ignite Media Zimbabwe. The third term bid faces formidable hurdles: constitutional barriers, internal party divisions, and widespread public opposition. While money may buy temporary loyalty, it cannot buy legitimacy or the trust of a disillusioned populace. Zimbabweans have grown weary of leaders who prioritise self-preservation over service and enrichment over reform. Ultimately, the corrupting power of money is eroding the very fabric of Zimbabwean society. Politics has become a game for the wealthy and well-connected, leaving ordinary citizens to bear the brunt of poor governance and economic mismanagement. As the succession battle rages on, one thing is clear: no amount of cash can mask the failures of a leadership that has lost its way. Money, for all its power, cannot buy credibility, morality, or the will of a people determined to see change. Mnangagwa's third term project is a glaring reminder of the destructive influence of money in politics—and a call for Zimbabweans to demand a return to integrity, transparency, and democratic principles in governance. _*Minister Machakaire's panicked demeanor amplifies concerns about Zanu-PF's stability*_ Youth Affairs Minister and Zanu-PF Youth League leader Tino Machakaire appeared visibly unsettled yesterday as he publicly defended President Emmerson Mnangagwa amidst rising tensions within the ruling party. The party is increasingly divided over Mnangagwa's leadership, with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga's military-aligned faction reportedly intensifying its opposition. Machakaire, speaking at a Zanu-PF gathering, made headlines for his shaky and nervous delivery. Struggling to articulate his speech, he mispronounced key terms such as "hoodwinked," which he read as "hookwinked," raising eyebrows about the pressure he faces amid the escalating succession infighting. His anxious display has fueled speculation about the growing fractures within the party and the impact of internal power struggles on its leadership. The mounting discord within Zanu-PF stems from recent outbursts by war veterans, including Blessed Geza, who have publicly criticized Mnangagwa's third-term bid and his economic management failures. These calls for his resignation have deepened the party's factional divides, pitting Mnangagwa loyalists like Machakaire against Chiwenga's camp. Machakaire, who hails from Mashonaland East—the same province as Chiwenga—appeared to tread carefully in his speech, seemingly haunted by the fate of former Zanu-PF youth leader Kudzai Chipanga. Chipanga, a vocal member of the G40 faction opposing Mnangagwa before the 2017 coup, was targeted by the military following the coup, alongside other G40 members. The parallels between Chipanga's past and Machakaire's present situation have sparked concern about his political future. Further complicating Machakaire's position are allegations of an unconstitutional reshuffle within the Youth League. In December 2024, Machakaire announced the appointment of new youth deployees to key portfolios, claiming the changes were necessary to implement resolutions from the Bulawayo annual conference, particularly regarding Mnangagwa's proposed term extension to 2030. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. However, Environment, Climate and Wildlife Deputy Minister John Paradza, also a Mnangagwa ally, has vehemently opposed the reshuffle, labeling it unprocedural and divisive. Paradza's objections underscore the extent of internal discontent, even among Mnangagwa's supporters, as the party grapples with leadership succession and third-term ambitions. The dispute has exposed a web of factionalism within Zanu-PF, with competing interests and agendas creating fractures even among those ostensibly aligned with Mnangagwa. Observers have noted that the infighting reflects deeper struggles over power and control as the party prepares for its next chapter. Machakaire's panicked demeanor and the brewing conflict over his actions have amplified concerns about the stability of Zanu-PF's leadership. With the specter of factional battles from the past looming large, the party appears caught in a struggle not just for its future direction, but for its very survival as a unified entity. _*Biti Denies Mutsvangwa’s Allegations Of Secret Meetings With US Diplomats*_ Former Finance Minister Tendai Biti has dismissed claims made by ZANU PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa, who alleged that Biti had been meeting with American diplomats in South Africa to “whip up emotions about title deeds and land in Zimbabwe” in an attempt to catch the attention of US President Donald Trump. Speaking to the media at the ZANU PF headquarters in Harare on Thursday, Mutsvangwa claimed that Biti had met with US embassy officials in South Africa on Wednesday. In response, Biti labelled Mutsvangwa’s accusations as blatant falsehoods and gross misrepresentations. Said Biti: The beleaguered faction-ridden desperate vacuous rag-tag liberation movement now resorts to blatant falsehoods and gross misrepresentations. We need to remind it that it has failed and failed in absolute terms. That its agenda to amend the constitution will fail. Indeed its attempt to privatize agricultural land acquired during the land reform program is a blatant neo-liberal reversal of the land reform program. That its hubristic extractive economic policies have reduced this country to a little tin pot, fast food economy, with millions wallowing in poverty and the vagaries of the informal economy. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Truth is ZANU PF has reached the end of its tether. It is slowly withering away mired in self-defeating contradictions and heresies. At the centre of the division is the corruption and greed of the so-called 2nd Republic. _*Mutsvangwa Claims Mnangagwa Secured Release Of His Son, Neville, From Prison*_ ZANU PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa said it was President Emmerson Mnangagwa who facilitated the release of his son, Neville, following his arrest last year. Neville was detained for illegal foreign currency trading during a raid at his home in Mt. Pleasant, Harare, on May 8, 2024. He was also charged with money laundering and violating the Bank Use Promotion and Suppression of Money Laundering Act. Neville was granted bail by High Court Judge Justice Rodgers Manyangadze on May 31, 2024. He and his co-accused, Ellias Majachani and Simbarashe Tichingana, were each required to pay US$1,000 and surrender their passports. At the time of Neville’s arrest, Mnangagwa was out of the country, and Mutsvangwa attributed the arrest to Acting President Constantino Chiwenga. On 8 May 2024, Mnangagwa was in Nairobi, Kenya, for the Africa Fertiliser and Soil Health Summit. Speaking at a press conference in Harare on Thursday, Mutsvangwa claimed that Mnangagwa was not responsible for his son’s arrest. He said: President Emmerson Mnangagwa was not behind the arrest of my son, as some people claim. It is President Mnangagwa who released him from jail. Mutsvangwa’s remarks suggest that President Mnangagwa influences the judiciary. Critics argue that there is a selective application of the law, with some individuals accused of corruption being briefly arrested and then released—a “catch and release” approach—while others languish in remand prison for over a year, only to be acquitted of the charges they faced. _*”Chivayo’s Reckless Display Of Wealth And Cash A Security Threat”*_ Social media personality Mmatigari has expressed frustration over ZANU PF’s focus on extending President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term in office, rather than addressing pressing economic challenges such as company closures and double-digit inflation. A ZANU PF sympathizer, Mmatigari warned that neglecting the country’s economic issues poses a potential national security threat. In a post on X, Mmatigari also criticized the reckless display of wealth and cash by Wicknell Chivhayo, a businessman with no known operational ventures, calling it a security threat. He wrote: This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The lack of focus on the all important issue of the economy while people are engrossed in extending the President’s term when he still has 3 & half years to go is a potential national security threat. ALSO, the reckless and grotesque display of wealth and throwing around of cash by Wicknell Chivhayo who has no known operating business anywhere and had a brother arrested in South Africa peddling smuggled gold is a SECURITY THREAT. It’s a security problem at a time the government is squeezing taxes from anyone and everyone to make ends meet. Does anyone know of anyone who has bought anything from any business run by Wicknell? These issues give rise to the Geza situation, descriptions like zvigananda and general disaffection in society. We must at all times hold dear the societal values that make us Zimbabwean. We are not from Hollywood. We descend from forefathers who coveted societal harmony, equitable access to the wealth of the land, and masters of building cities whose remains stand to this day. These values must be kept and cherished by all. _*Geza Puts Mnangagwa Family, Zvigananda In Panic*_ ZANU-PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa on Thursday struggled to dismiss threats by outspoken war veteran Blessing Geza, who has called on President Emmerson Mnangagwa to resign or face a coup—confirming that the president and his inner circle are now in panic mode. Addressing the media at the ZANU-PF headquarters, Mutsvangwa, known for his fiery outbursts when denying factionalism within the ruling party, attempted to downplay Geza’s challenge. All he could muster was a dismissive remark: “Geza is being used by fools.” Geza, a former liberation war fighter and vocal critic of Mnangagwa’s leadership, has since gone into hiding after police announced on Wednesday that they were seeking his arrest on multiple charges. According to a statement released by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) on February 12, 2025, Geza is wanted for alleged theft, undermining the authority of the president, and incitement to commit public violence. However, his faction has dismissed the charges as politically motivated, warning that any attempt to arrest or assassinate him would be met with fierce resistance. “Any arrest or assassination at this point will be a declaration of war in this country. Let me repeat: you have unleashed violence for no offense,” a spokesperson for Geza’s group declared. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Political analysts and Geza’s supporters argue that the accusations are a desperate ploy to silence one of Mnangagwa’s fiercest critics as the battle for power within ZANU-PF escalates. “This is a classic Mnangagwa regime tactic—using law enforcement to muzzle those who expose corruption and demand accountability,” said a war veteran aligned with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga’s camp. Geza has been relentless in his criticism of Mnangagwa’s alleged misgovernance, corruption, and his controversial push for an unconstitutional third term. He has also accused Mnangagwa of reneging on a supposed gentleman’s agreement with Chiwenga, under which power was expected to rotate after two terms. Mnangagwa’s refusal to step down has deepened rifts within ZANU-PF, with factions now openly voicing their discontent. Calls for his resignation intensified after Chiwenga’s speech at the National Heroes Acre last week, where he delivered a thinly veiled attack on corrupt businessmen linked to Mnangagwa. Chiwenga, a key figure in the 2017 coup that ousted Robert Mugabe, warned against individuals exploiting state resources for personal gain—a remark widely interpreted as targeting Mnangagwa’s close associates, including his sons and powerful business allies. Sources within the security sector suggest that Mnangagwa and his inner circle are increasingly on edge. “The president got the message loud and clear. He is panicking, and so is his family. His sons have been placed under heightened state security amid fears of potential moves against them,” a senior government source revealed. _*Treasury Injects US$7.5 Million And ZiG$100 Million Into GMB For Wheat Payments*_ The Grain Marketing Board (GMB) has received US$7.5 million and ZiG$100 million for wheat payments over the past week, according to the company’s CEO, Edson Badarai. This latest cash infusion from the Treasury brings the total payments for wheat deliveries to US$18 million and ZiG$215 million. Added Badarai: The Board greatly appreciates all the efforts being put in place by Treasury to mobilise resources to clear outstanding farmer obligations.Feedback As the country gears towards wheat- based food self-sufficiency the Board fully recognises the resilience and undoubted commitment and dedication of our farmers. GMB continues to play a key role in the agricultural value chain and transformation agenda to ensure food security for the country. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. _*Govt gazettes new education law for pregnant students to remain in school*_ The Government has gazetted new education regulations Statutory Instrument 13 of 2025 to address a number of issues. According to the new SI schools should provide psychosocial support to pupils that fall pregnant and allow them to stay in school and finish their studies. The new law also prohibits pupils from entering staff living quarters. Meanwhile, there is also a provision that no child shall be barred from school for failing to pay fees or not having a birth certificate. _*Tawanda Nyambirai Makes Comeback with Steward Bank Takeover*_ In a stunning turn of events, seasoned businessman and lawyer Tawanda Nyambirai has reclaimed control of Steward Bank, years after exiting the pioneering tech-driven institution in a deal involving billionaire Strive Masiyiwa’s Econet Wireless. The high-profile takeover marks Nyambirai’s dramatic return to Zimbabwe’s financial sector, reigniting speculation about his long-term strategic vision. Having played a pivotal role in the early development of Steward Bank, formerly TN Bank, before its acquisition by Econet, Nyambirai’s return signals a potential shift in direction for the institution. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Sources close to the deal indicate that negotiations had been ongoing for months, with Nyambirai leveraging his deep financial expertise and industry networks to orchestrate the transaction. The latest move is expected to bring about significant changes in the bank’s operations, particularly at a time when Zimbabwe’s banking sector faces mounting regulatory pressures and shifting market dynamics. Nyambirai’s return coincides with a major leadership overhaul at EcoCash Holdings, the fintech giant that oversees Steward Bank and other digital financial services. The boardroom shake-up has seen eight directors resign, paving the way for ten new appointments. Among the notable changes, Dr Titus Murefu has assumed the role of Chairperson, taking over from Mrs Sherree G. Shereni. Nyambirai, in addition to reclaiming Steward Bank, has also been reinstated as Group CEO of EcoCash Holdings, replacing Eddie Chibi. His return to the helm raises questions about the company’s future direction, particularly in light of Econet’s decision to exit the mobile money transfer business. Econet’s departure from the mobile money sector marks a significant shift in Zimbabwe’s digital financial landscape. The company, which pioneered mobile money solutions through EcoCash, has deemed the business model unsustainable under the Corporate Entrepreneurship (CE) approach that has driven its growth for years. Under this model, Econet aggressively expanded its fintech and tech-based ventures, capitalising on Zimbabwe’s volatile regulatory environment. However, frequent shifts in government policies, along with the recent entry of Starlink—a global satellite internet provider—have disrupted the market, forcing Econet to reassess its strategy. Financial analysts suggest that Nyambirai’s return could lead to a restructuring of EcoCash Holdings’ operations, possibly with a renewed focus on core banking services and high-tech financial solutions. As the Zimbabwean economy continues to evolve, his leadership will be closely watched for potential shifts in the digital finance ecosystem. With Nyambirai back in control and major changes underway, all eyes are now on Steward Bank and EcoCash Holdings to see what direction the institutions will take under his stewardship. _*Dad of two stoned to death in row over US$0.50: police*_ A man from Harare’s Mufakose suburb was stoned to death on Thursday night during a row over US$0.50, police said. Mike Sallimon, 33, was the victim of a vicious attack by Bison Manyade, who was angry over his share of the day’s takings working as a kombi tout near the Lyton flyover in the suburb. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The murder is the second violent killing in the working class suburb in just days after a man stabbed his mother 19 times over a petty domestic quarrel last week. Christina Paulos, a relative of Sallimon explained: “Bison was not happy after he was given US$4 instead of US$4.50, the amount that was given to Mike. “He started throwing stones at Mike and the guy who paid then for touting insisting that he was the one supposed to get the US$4.50. “Mike has left two children and we are really saddened.” Inspector Lovemore Chakanza of Harare police said they had launched a murder investigation. Residents have planned a protest on February 2 over rising drug abuse which they say is behind the murders and other crimes in the suburb. In December last year, a five-year-old boy was murdered by his mother’s lover under unclear circumstances. _*Broadcasting Services Bill goes for second reading*_ The Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill is set to go for the second parliamentary reading this coming Tuesday, following nationwide consultations. The bill, among other issues, seeks to strengthen the public broadcasters’ operations. Parliament has thrown its weight behind the bill and there is optimism it will sail through. “The Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill is coming to Parliament next week. We went across the country in all provinces asking what they wanted to see in the Bill. “The issues were around radio licensing where we need you to pay up your licenses before your Zinara tax disc,” Parly Media Committee chairperson, Honourable Caston Matewu said. The Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation says its mandate will be greatly enhanced if the Bill sees the light of day. “As a public broadcaster in Zimbabwe, we are optimistic that the Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill is going to see the light of day,” ZBC’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mr Tapiwa Mudzamba said. “We do believe that the people of Zimbabwe are people who love their country and also love their public broadcaster. If the Bill passes as a public broadcaster we will be in a position to improve our revenue and that revenue will be utilised in line with the National Development Strategy One.” The crafting and refining of the Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill is part of the media reform agenda being instituted by the Second Republic. _*China establishes a ‘Defense’ Unit to counter threat of an asteroid that could hit earth in 2032*_ China has begun recruiting for a planetary defence force after risk assessments determined that an asteroid could conceivably hit Earth in 2032. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Job ads posted online by China’s State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defence (SASTIND) this week, sought young loyal graduates focused on aerospace engineering, international cooperation and asteroid detection. The recruitment drive comes amid increasing focus on an asteroid with a low – but growing – likelihood of hitting earth in seven years. The 2024 YR4 asteroid is at the top of the European and US space agencies’ risk lists, and last week analysts increased their probability assessment of it hitting Earth from 1.3% to 2.2%. The UN’s Space Mission Planning Advisory Group, comprising countries with space programs including China, have been meeting regularly to discuss a response. _*Govt sugar import ban bears fruit*_ Sugar producers increased sales by 22 percent in the last quarter, taking advantage of government’s ban on imported sugar. Production rose to 19 percent in the 3 months to December 2024. Producers reduced exports by 53 percent to ride on strong local demand, Hippo Valley Estates says. Despite the growth, Hippo has announced job cuts to reduce costs. The government, had initially lifted the import ban on sugar and other commodities in 2023 to combat rising inflation. This policy opened the market to at least 17 foreign sugar brands, which disrupted the local industry by undercutting prices and reducing market share for domestic producers. Imported sugar is cheaper due to subsidies provided by foreign governments to their producers, hence import was a huddle to local producers. In contrast, Zimbabwean producers face higher production costs, making it difficult to compete without protective measures. _*Trial Of Former ARDA Boss Accused Of Defrauding Bombshell Geza Postponed*_ The trial of former Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA) boss Basil Nyabadza, who is accused of defrauding ZANU PF central committee member Blessed Geza of US$1.3 million in a land scam, was delayed on Thursday after Nyabadza requested further particulars. Nyabadza is accused of selling land, initially sold to Geza, to another party without Geza’s consent. According to ZimLive, Nyabadza’s trial was scheduled to begin before Harare regional magistrate Tilda Mazhande. However, through his lawyer, Tazorora Musarurwa, Nyabadza requested more details from the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). Nyabadza contended that the additional information would allow him to prepare his defence. Specifically, he is seeking clarification on whether the prosecution has any documents beyond the sale agreement as part of their evidence. His lawyer said: This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Provide a breakdown of how this amount was calculated. Explain how the amount of US$1.3 million which is the alleged purchase price of the whole of Lot 5 of Spitzkop constitutes the prejudice suffered by Geza given that he only paid a total of US$112,000. Provide evidence of the payments amounting to US$1.3 million made by Geza including receipts or bank statements. The trial is now expected to start on February 24. Prosecutor Anesu Chirenje alleged that on October 29, 2020, Blessed Geza purchased a 423,504-hectare piece of land from Basil Nyabadza for US$1,362,000, with Geza granted exclusive rights to subdivide, develop, and sell the land. Nyabadza reportedly misrepresented that the land had title deeds, promising to provide them within a month but never did. While Geza was working on subdivision permits, he discovered that Nyabadza had sold the same land to Velda Estates. Geza later learned that the sale agreement had been cancelled without his knowledge after attempting to resolve the matter with Nyabadza. _*City Of Bulawayo Cracks Down On Unlicensed Dog Ownership*_ The City of Bulawayo has raised concerns regarding the growing number of dogs being kept on private properties, with these animals becoming a nuisance within the community. In a recent notice, Bulawayo Town Clerk Christopher Dube said that no individual shall keep a dog aged six months or older within the council’s jurisdiction without holding a valid licence. The notice reads: The City of Bulawayo has noted that there is an increasing number of dogs being kept on private properties and that these dogs are causing a nuisance to residents.Feedback Dog owners and the general public are hereby advised that, in terms of the Bulawayo (Dog Licensing and Control) By-Laws. 1. No person shall keep a dog aged 6 months or more in the Council area unless he/she is the holder of a licence. 2. No person shall keep in the Council area more than two dogs on any property measuring less than 2000 square meters, and not more than 4 dogs on any larger property. 3. No person shall allow his dog(s) to roam outside his premises without restraint. 4. Dogs shall only be kept where the property is securely fenced/walled and gated. (A hedge is not permissible.) 5. Dogs within the Council area shall be vaccinated against rabies. 6. No person shall breed a dog or keep an unspayed bitch in the Council area unless he/she is a licensed breeder. A dog licence is valid from (1 January-31 December) and can be obtained from any City of Bulawayo Revenue Office upon production of a valid vaccination certificate and payment of a fee of US$24 for a male dog and USD$27 for a female and an unspayed dog USD$27. Dog owners who can no longer care for or need their dogs are advised to surrender them to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). Residents and stakeholders are advised that the City of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe Republic Police. Department of Veterinary Field Services, and Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) will respond to any complaints. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Complaints or queries can be lodged with the City of Bulawayo Customer Contact Centre on 02922 71290 (for all networks) or WhatsApp 0774 668 432 or email [email protected] or the Health Services Department on 02922 72569, or 02922 75011 ext. _*COTTCO Owes Cotton Farmers US$5.6 Million In Legacy Debt*_ The Cotton Company of Zimbabwe (COTTCO) owes cotton farmers US$5.6 million in legacy debt from the 2022/23 season, with half of the amount expected to be settled in local currency. COTTCO’s acting CEO, Rockie Mutenha, confirmed the outstanding payments, saying that while farmers have received the US dollar component for the 2023/24 season, the local currency equivalent—amounting to US$400,000—remains unpaid. Said Mutenha (via Business Times): We have paid 100% of the US dollar component for the 2023/24 season. What remains is the US$400,000 portion paid in ZWL. We anticipate clearing this amount before the marketing season begins. We are still ginning, and as we sell the processed cotton, we should be able to pay the farmers. Mutenha said that COTTCO has reached out to the relevant authorities for assistance and is hopeful of clearing the outstanding payments soon. He said: We acknowledge that we owe farmers US$5.6m from the previous season, half of which will be paid in local currency. We are making frantic efforts to secure funds, and our applications for assistance are under consideration. We deeply value our farmers and are committed to ensuring they are paid. Cotton Producers and Marketers Association (CPMA) chairman, Stewart Mubonderi said COTTCO’s delays in paying farmers fuels side marketing. He said: This delay is eroding farmers’ trust in COTTCO and forcing many into side marketing. Farming is a business—if farmers are not paid on time, they become disillusioned and discouraged. What’s shocking is that COTTCO has already sold all the cotton delivered, yet the farmers remain unpaid. Communities in cotton-dependent areas such as Gokwe, Mwenezi, Chiredzi, and Checheche are among the hardest hit by COTTCO’s failures, as cotton is often the only viable cash crop for these regions. Said Mubonderi: This is not just about late payments; it’s about survival. Cotton is the lifeblood of these communities. If farmers continue to be shortchanged, it leads to poverty, social problems, and even crime. We call upon COTTCO to settle these debts immediately to restore confidence in the sector and improve farmers’ livelihoods. _*Zimbabwean CFO denied bail over fraudulent South African permanent residence permit*_ A Zimbabwean national accused of using a fraudulent South African permanent residence permit when applying for employment has been denied bail. Kudakwashe Mpofu, 33, the Chief Financial Officer at the North West Development Corporation was arrested by the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigations (known as the Hawks) on January 28, 2025. The National Prosecuting Authority said Mpofu who faces a charge of fraud appeared in the Mmabatho Magistrate’s Court in the North West. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Explaining the merits of the case NPA spokesperson Sivenathi Gunya said it is alleged that in March 2021, the North West Development Corporation advertised the position of Asset Manager based in Head Office in Mafikeng. “Investigations indicate that Mpofu applied for the position.” He said as part of the application process, Mpofu attached all the necessary documents, including his permanent residence permit which is alleged to be fraudulent. “He was successfully appointed to the position on May 1, 2021.” The NPA said in June 2023 Mpofu was appointed as Chief Financial Officer of the entity. “The State alleges that Mpofu submitted a fraudulent South African permanent residence when applying for the job in North West Development Corporations. The NPA said that the State further alleges that the permit was never issued by the Department of Home Affairs. The court heard that Mpofu is a flight risk and might evade trial if released because he is illegally in the country. “The state further presented an affidavit from an official of the Department of Home Affairs which confirmed that the permanent residence permit of the accused was never issued by Home Affairs and it is fraudulent.” The accused will remain behind bars and will appear in the Specialised Commercial Crime Court sitting in Mmabatho on March 19, 2025. _*Zimbabweans have penchant for sugar-rush solution of Mnangagwa must go even at the cost of retaining the dictatorship yet again: Wilbert Mukori*_ "Zimbabwe is in desperate need of transformative leadership, not the routine recycling of failed politicians," argued Trevor Ncube. "A change in leadership might offer temporary relief, Zimbabwe's issues run deeper, demanding a systemic overhaul." Could not agree with you more! God only knows how many golden opportunities to completely overhaul our failed political system, notably the 2008 to 2013 GNU and the 2017 military coup, and we have wasted them all. All because of greed, breathtaking incompetence and, yes, our penchant for temporary relief. We would happily give up our freedoms, rights and human dignity to appease the dictator on the off chance he will have mercy on us even when history tells us he will only demand more and double the abuse again and again. Zimbabwe is a failed state because the nation been stuck with this corrupt, incompetent and tyrannical Zanu PF dictatorship for 45 years and counting. The party has enjoyed absolute power including the power to rig elections, to stay in power, and to loot the nation's wealth. Robert Mugabe and his Zanu PF cronies have bribed, cajoled and even killed fellow Zanu PF nationalists, war veterans and the nation at large to accept the de facto Zanu PF one-party dictatorship. War veterans in the army, Police, etc.; still in active service, retired or demobilised in 1980; have been brainwashed to believe that only Zanu PF leaders are fit to rule Zimbabwe and can be trusted to safeguard the nation's independence and sovereignty. And so it the Army, Police, etc. have become department of the party in all but name, there to promote Zanu PF's singular agenda of retaining absolute power at all costs. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. As much as Blessed Geza and his faction of war veterans are right in condemning Mnangagwa as a corrupt and murderous dictator; they cannot that they have played their part in imposing him in the 2017 military coup and the rigged elections which have followed. They have toned down their zeal to see VP Chiwenga succeed Mnangagwa and will never accept that he must face the acid test of free, fair and credible elections. Never! How anyone can fail to see that swapping one dictator for another will solve nothing, especially after 45 years of rigged elections and bad governance, beggars believe! Zanu PF will never reform itself out of office by accepting free and fair elections. The opposition MDC/CCC failed to implement even one token reform during the GNU when they had the golden opportunity to do so. Mugabe bribed Morgan Tsvangirai and his MDC friends with the trappings of high office and, in return, they forgot about the reforms. Ever since the GNU debacle, MDC/CCC leaders have participated in flawed elections to give Zanu PF victory and legitimacy for the sake of few gravy train seats. They have conned their brain-dead followers to participate on the basis of idiotic claims of opposition winning RIGGED elections. The very fact that millions Zimbabweans have believed these lies time and time again, even after 45 years of rigged elections, explains why we are a failed state. Yes, we need a complete system overhaul of our failed political system. "The only way forward, according to Ncube, is through a national, inclusive process that involves all stakeholders, including business leaders, civil society, the Church, labor, women, and youth. These groups must work together to rebuild the country," reported Bulawayo24. Some people would say the writing of the 2013 Constitution was an inclusive process and yet no one will deny it was another wasted opportunity to dismantle the Zanu PF dictatorship and replace it with a healthy and functional democracy. A body of 50 or so technocrats can be task to write the nation's new democratic constitution. They only have to use the constitutions of other nations that have tried and tested as the starting point; no need to reinvent the wheel. It will be very disappointing indeed if the head of steam built since Mnangagwa took over from Mugabe should result in merely the replacement of one dictator with another. What we want is the end of the dictatorship and not another few days of sugar-rush at seeing Mnangagwa go followed by years more of this "soul-crushing poverty", as Trevor aptly put it! _*Zimbabweans React as Minister Proposes Compulsory Random Drug Testing For All Civil Servants*_ As Zimbabweans went about their daily routines, a surprising announcement hit the airwaves on Valentine’s Day. Deputy Minister of Health Sleiman Kwidini revealed plans for a policy of compulsory random drug testing for all civil servants. The news quickly sparked debate, with citizens taking to social media to voice their opinions. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Nick Mangwana, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, was among the first to react. He shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), confirming that authorities were actively considering the move. “As I drove to work, I was listening to the radio and heard Deputy Minister of @MoHCCZim Hon Sleiman Kwidini suggesting they are working on a policy of compulsory random drug testing at work for all civil servants,” Mangwana wrote. “I smiled knowing kuti ini ndinopona as a clean living man. Ko iwe?” He also reassured the public that drug testing equipment had already been donated for such initiatives. “The Deputy is aware that The Abused Substances and Diagnostic Management Project has donated drug testing equipment which will be used for this type of campaign. All other health needs are also being attended to,” he posted. Mangwana doubled down on his personal stance, stating: “Ha ha I am as clean as they come. I can take a test anytime.” Mixed Reactions From The Public The announcement drew a flurry of reactions, with some supporting the initiative and others questioning its feasibility. ZANU PF politician and former Chegutu West legislator Dexter Taona Nduna applauded the move, calling for additional measures: “Great initiative. Should also include breathalysers and blood tests because drug abuse is a menace.” Others were sceptical, however. @gkarani1 argued that the plan was impractical: “He is not being practical and he is not looking at the actual problem. We are even failing to compulsory test all patients who are admitted to establish routes of management. Anyway, how much is the tender?” @FlorenceMago doubted the implementation: “I support this but I don’t think it will be implemented coz Insurance Council of Zimbabwe donated breathalysers and have never seen anyone being breathalysed on the road. Mashefu acho anenge akatodhakwa nedombo!” Concerns Over Costs And Priorities. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Some questioned whether the initiative was the best use of resources. @matingwinatavoe suggested that the money could be better spent elsewhere: “The cost of acquiring the machinery to do those tests at every government institution is very high. The money can be put to use in better things like buying paracetamol, building theatres so that those who want to live, live. Avo vanoda kufa nema drugs vasiyei.” @M21Martino pointed to the larger issue of drug trafficking: “That’s so great to hear. It puzzles me, however, how these drugs manage to find a way through our borders, ‘undetected,’ in such enormous quantities. Moreover, is that the best possible initiative to combat substance abuse in Zimbabwe? Are we not drawing dangerous lines?” Another user, @OnsonMash, questioned the government’s ability to enforce such a policy: “You are failing to test drivers on the road.” The debate continues, with many waiting to see whether the proposal will become policy. Will Zimbabwe’s civil servants soon face mandatory drug tests? Only time will tell. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production.