*FOR DAILY NEWS UPDATES* *_Join our Group:_* https://chat.whatsapp.com/EQFa8axjqYiLc7BiUKVuAW *TO ADVERTISE WITH WAZO ADVERTS* *_WhatsApp:_* wa.me/263776804293 *_We have a market reach of over 400,000 Zimbabweans._* — — — — — — — — — — — — *_MORNING NEWS | 1 MARCH 2025_* *1.* We will lead onslaught against Mnangagwa – War vets *2.* Power outages set to worsen, says Zesa *3.* All Zanu PF vehicles must pay toll fees: George Charamba *4.* Minister Garwe calls for ideology training in ECD carriculum *5.* AMH’s Trevor Ncube blasts ‘selective application of the law’ as Mhlanga denied bail *6.* Harare City Council seeks to borrow over US$22 million to improve service delivery *7.* Armed robbers pounce on Zanu PF’s Chinamasa *8.* Grace Mugabe reflects on Robert and founding Namibia president close bond *9.* Lawyers set to appeal Blessed Mhlanga’s bail denial *10.* Matobo farmers welcome rains, fear damages and losses *11.* ONE Money aims to revolutionise financial inclusion in Zimbabwe *12.* U.S condemns arrest, bail denial of AMH journalist Blessed Mhlanga *13.* Scottland claim dramatic last minute winner as PSL new season gets underway *14.* Mabvuku woman kills husband over infidelity *15.* Woman jailed 10 years for assisting a man to rape her 6-year-old daughter *16.* Zimbabwean twins in trouble for murdering colleague over snooker in Botswana *17.* Bogus Kwekwe cop convicted and jailed over US$3 bribe demand *_FULL ARTICLES BELOW_* _[Note: These News Articles were Compiled and Distributed by Wazo Adverts. Source is Credited at the End of Each Article.]_ 1. *WE WILL LEAD ONSLAUGHT AGAINST MNANGAGWA – WAR VETS* A faction of the war veterans says it will 'lead the onslaught' against President Emmerson Mnangagwa, ratcheting up the tension in the ruling Zanu PF party. "Maybe our presser today is the last. We want to address the elephant in the room as quickly as posssible. It may be in a week or two, the pressure will be on," the leader of a faction of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veteran Association faction, Andrease Mathibela told a Press conference in Harare on Friday. This development comes hot on the heels of outspoken war veteran and Zanu PF central committee member Blessed “Bombshell” Geza’s condemnation of Mnangagwa’s leadership, where he declared that the Zanu PF leader was “not fit to run this country”. Matyhibela said the association had consulted with citizens of Zimbabwe who had agreed that Mnangagwa ought to step down. He also said the association was behind Geza, who it had sent at the front and described him as “our rabble-rouser”. Mnangagwa is facing growing discontent among Zimbabweans frustrated with the country’s economic woes. Mathibela accused Mnangagwa of failing to tame corruption which was bleeding the economy, resulting in poverty among ordinary people. The war veteran leader gave Mnangagwa a two-week ultimatum, threatening that the people would go into the streets in protest against poor governance. “So obviously, the government is not serious about addressing the crisis (that) it has created itself,” Mathibela said. “So, when we look, as citizens of this country, when we look at any crisis, we ask: What is the root cause? Then we deal with the root cause. “I am here, on behalf of all veterans and members of the public, ordinary people. We were quiet, while all these other noise makers were trying to be relevant. Guess what? We were busy consulting.” Added Mathibela: “Just like what we did during the liberation struggle. We were working with the masses. We were working with the chiefs. We were working with the mass media, spirit mediums, I would say. And they have told us, that all veterans, you put your government there, sort it out.” “That is the challenge they have given us. They say you put this government, you sort it out. And very true, we will definitely sort it out. I am happy that the nation, at large, which is the suffocating victims of this crisis, has said ‘We will go with you veterans, every step of the way’. “They have told us, in no uncertain circumstances, that this time around, we must lead the onslaught, where the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe must step down immediately. “And we are in agreement. We have reasons which we can explain throughout the night, until the following morning.” Mathibela said Mnangagwa and his government are not comfortable with the discontent among war veterans, hence the attempt to silence them with trinkets. He said war veterans aligned to his faction would boycott the planned interface with Mnangagwa. “Why suddenly now?” Mathibela asked. “People are panicking, offering war veterans US$1,5 million and the Tungwarara houses. “We call those small houses Tungwararas because it’s a mockery. “Why us alone? What about the people who put you into power?” *_-Newsday_* 2. *POWER OUTAGES SET TO WORSEN, SAYS ZESA* Rolling power cuts are set to worsen from tomorrow, according to the power utility. In a notice, Zesa Holdings said: “Zesa Holdings would like to inform its valued stakeholders that Hwange Unit 7 will undergo a scheduled Class B maintenance, from March 2 to 29, 2025. This follows the successful Class C maintenance of Hwange Unit 8 in January 2025.” Further, Hwange Power Station Unit 6 will be taken offline for statutory maintenance from March 15 to May 14, 2025. The power utility said “this is being carried out to ensure readiness for increased generation during the peak winter season”. “We would like to assure the nation that various strategies have been put in place to ensure stable supply during the period,” Zesa Holdings said. “Kariba Power Station, which is primarily operating as a peaking plant, will be managed carefully to address the periods of low supply caused by these outages. “The output from Kariba will be adjusted as and when necessary to conserve water for future use, ensuring a balanced and sustainable energy mix.” *_-Newsday_* 3. *ALL ZANU PF VEHICLES MUST PAY TOLL FEES: GEORGE CHARAMBA* Presidential Spokesperson George Charamba has warned all Zanu PF vehicles passing through toll gates to pay toll fees as required by the law as no one including Government departments is exempted from such tax. He said even the Office of the President must and it pays toll fees and this is done at Zinara in advance. He said what Government has after paying in advance are toll certificates and not toll exemptions. Charamba condemned party members who force their way through toll gates without paying fees describing the act as an abuse of tax that puts Zanu PF into disrepute. Charamba who was responding to a post on X by The Mirror showing a Zanu PF branded vehicle for Zaka South Constituency bypassing a tollgate last week, warned officials committing the crime that they can be expelled from the party. He hailed Matthew Takaona, a former commissioner with the Zimbabwe Media Commissioner and now consultant with The Mirror and Mirror crew for exposing corruption at the toll gates. Charamba said that no one is exempted; from Government to political parties adding that party logos on vehicles must not be abused to break the law. “There is nothing exempting party vehicles and drivers from meeting their toll obligations. All Government Departments, the Office of the President included make yearly payments to Zinara and get certificates for that facility. “No to tax abuse in the name in the name of party logo. That’s putting the ruling party into disrepute and it’s a dismissible offence, according to party rules. “Thanks Matthew Takaona and your Mirror crew, there is nothing exempting party vehicles and drivers from meeting their toll obligations. Well done Mirror,” said Charamba. Mirror photographer, Nyasha Mariga last week filmed a party vehicle owned by Zaka South MP, Clemence Chiduwa passing through the tollgate without paying toll fees. The crew questioned the station supervisor on the incident and he conceded that the vehicle was in breach of the law. Constable Chihoma of Masvingo Central Police actually assisted the driver of the vehicle to break the law. Zinara categorically stated through a statement to The Mirror that party vehicles are not exempt from paying toll fees. He said Police officers were aware of that. Police Spokesperson Paul Nyathi referred all questions to Zinara. *_-Masvingo Mirror_* 4. *MINISTER GARWE CALLS FOR IDEOLOGY TRAINING IN ECD CARRICULUM* Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, has called for the inclusion of ideology training in Zimbabwe’s Early Childhood Development (ECD) curriculum to instill national consciousness in children from an early age. Garwe made the remarks on Friday in Bulawayo during a training session for councillors and local authorities’ staff from Matabeleland North under the Herbert Chitepo School of Ideology. “We want you to go as far down as even the ECDs in terms of an ECD-based curriculum so that our children or our grandchildren will grow knowing the nature, the structure, and the architecture of their heritage, which is Zimbabwe,” Garwe said. His remarks come amid controversy over the Herbert Chitepo training programme, which has faced criticism from human rights lawyers and civil society groups who argue that it is a government-led attempt at political indoctrination. The training is currently focused on councillors and local authorities’ staff, but Garwe said the programme would expand to other institutions. “After this programme, we are going to be working with other universities, local universities, or state institutions to be driving different agendas that speak to local governance,” he said. Garwe dismissed claims that the Herbet Chitepo ideology training programme was a partisan initiative, insisting that it was a national institution working towards promoting Zimbabwe’s heritage-based education. “Let me start by correcting some narrative that I came across this morning when I arrived here. The Herbert Chitepo School of Ideology is not a party-based organisation, it’s a government organisation, even though its consummation was through the ruling party in the 70s during the war,” he said. “It is now a government institution which is assisting our universities in ensuring that we drive heritage-based education to Zimbabweans. That is the principal responsibility of the Herbert Chitepo School of Ideology. Ideology has no political face. Ideology carries a national face, the face of Zimbabwe.” Garwe said the ideology training should be embraced by all Zimbabweans, regardless of their political affiliations, as it promotes unity and national development. “This is a national programme, which we must give all the due respect that they deserve. They are driving a national programme as guided by the President of Zimbabwe,” he said. The councillors’ training programme was attended by representatives from Zanu PF, the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), and a councillor from the MDC party led by Douglas Mwonzora. “We recognise your presence. We honestly and sincerely recognise your being here. You are part of the community. You are a Zimbabwean. We are all here to drive a Zimbabwean agenda,” Garwe said. Garwe highlighted the importance of Zimbabweans maintaining their cultural identity, warning against adopting Western values at the expense of local traditions. “I know the majority of our people, particularly those from urban centres or urban local authorities, have a high appetite to want to shift or drift away from our own culture to the cultures borrowed from the Western world. That is not us,” he said. “Let’s be ourselves as Zimbabweans. Let’s drive our culture. And I am happy now that there is a new dimension, there is a new wind blowing over the United States of America by the new President (Donald Trump). He is speaking to America, he is not speaking to wanting to cause problems in other countries. And we must speak to Zimbabwe.” Garwe also called for collaboration across political divides, saying national development should take precedence over political differences. “I know the politics that we inherited in the past dispensation was that of hate. A councillor from CCC is a brother or sister to me. I must not be ashamed to be seen dining and wining with the councillors or MPs from opposition parties,” he said. “And similarly, councillors and MPs from opposition parties must not be afraid of talking and dining and wining with their colleagues from Zanu PF. I think we are all Zimbabweans above all,” he said. The minister added that opposition parties play a crucial role in governance by providing checks and balances. “The President said this sometime early this year, that opposition continues to identify weak areas in the ruling party. So that the ruling party will correct those, so that we develop our country going forward as a collective. So please don’t be afraid of working together,” he said. Garwe outlined the government’s ongoing efforts to capacitate local authorities through training, which he said aligns with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 goals. “The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works regularly and categorically trains policymakers and employees in the local authority sphere as part of its responsibility to monitor, oversee, and empower local authorities in our beautiful country Zimbabwe,” he said. He added that the Ministry had rolled out a three-phased induction programme for councillors, targeting mayors, chairpersons, and council staff to enhance their understanding of governance. “It is therefore critical to note that during this process the Ministry is aware of the wide political dichotomy which exists among policymakers and staff as well as the narrow appreciation of basic but fundamental aspects of the nation’s history, identity, and politics,” he said. To address this, Garwe said the Ministry saw the need to integrate a heritage-based initiation course into local governance training. “Government saw the need therefore to include a heritage-based initiation course into the training and induction process to ensure local authorities as a third tier of government better understand the national development agenda as espoused in Vision 2030,” he said. “Vision 2030 is a national vision. It is not a political party vision. It is a vision that was developed by the Head of State and Commander-in-Chief and now Chairman of SADC. So it’s a national vision. All of us must own it because we are part of government.” Garwe also drew parallels between Zimbabwe and other countries that have introduced patriotic education campaigns to instill national values in their citizens. “The Ministry realises it takes a leaf from initiatives carried out in countries such as China, the United States of America, the Russian Federation, Singapore, and Japan among others, where patriotic education campaigns have been launched to promote love for the motherland, to promote values, moral values, and to promote relationships among citizens,” he said. He expressed hope that the partnership between the Ministry and the Herbert Chitepo School of Ideology would help roll out a patriotic education curriculum across Zimbabwe’s 92 local authorities. “It is therefore our sincere hope that the Ministry’s partnership with the Herbert Chitepo School of Ideology for the rollout of a patriotic education curriculum across all our 92 local authorities and the development of a training manual and modules for use and dissemination in the local government space will go a long way in driving this agenda,” he said. Garwe urged Zimbabweans to embrace national identity and values to secure the country’s future. “This is the heritage we got from our ancestors. This is the heritage we will leave for our children. This is the heritage they will leave for their children. And the beat goes on,” he said. *_-CITE_* 5. *AMH’S TREVOR NCUBE BLASTS ‘SELECTIVE APPLICATION OF THE LAW’ AS MHLANGA DENIED BAIL* Alpha Media Holdings (AMH) chairman Trevor Ncube has bemoaned the decision by a Harare magistrate to deny senior journalist Blessed Mhlanga bail saying it was a travesty to justice. Magistrate Farai Gwitima yesterday remanded Mhlanga in custody to March 14, saying his release would be a threat to national security following his arrest earlier in the week on charges of inciting violence. Gwitima said Mhlanga was likely to interfere with witnesses, who are his subordinates. He said the senior journalist disseminated messages that were likely to incite violence and breach peace. Police arrested Mhlanga on Monday after he handed himself over following visits by law enforcement agents to HStv and NewsDay offices. They said the charges were linked to the broadcast of Press conferences by Zanu PF central committee member Blessed “Bombshell” Geza. Geza was demanding President Emmerson Mnangagwa to resign for allegedly seeking to hang onto power beyond the end of his term in 2028. Ncube said the bail ruling by Gwitima did not come as a surprise because there was selective application of the law in Zimbabwe. “It’s no surprise at all, I think the surprise would have been if we had gotten a sense that the court had seriously applied themselves to the case that has been brought before them,” the AMH chairman told journalists outside court. “It’s saddening, it’s heartbreaking, but that is what it is in terms of the selective application of the law in our country “Criminals are let go scot-free. The innocent and the weak are subjected to law in a selective kind of manner.” Mhlanga’s lawyer Chris Mhike is expected to apply to the High Court for bail pending trial. “We are confident that in due time, Blessed is going to be allowed to enjoy the freedom that all of us are currently enjoying,” Ncube added. “I think fundamentally important is the fact that there wasn’t any indication that the court realises that you are dealing with freedom of expression and Press freedom, and that Blessed did not say any of that stuff that he is alleged to have said. “Blessed is not HStv, Blessed is not AMH. He is just a journalist practising his profession, which is constitutionally protected, just like you guys are doing here, broadcasting to the public at home. “You can’t be accused of inciting the public for broadcasting what I am saying right now. I am the one who should be brought before the court, not the journalist who transmits the information. “So I am disappointed in that regard, but this is the reality that we are in right now.” Mhlanga’s arrest has been condemned locally and internationally as a gross violation of Press freedom. *_-Newsday_* 6. *HARARE CITY COUNCIL SEEKS TO BORROW OVER US$22 MILLION TO IMPROVE SERVICE DELIVERY* Harare residents are up in arms with its local authority, which is seeking borrowing powers to the tune of US$22 million to improve service delivery in the city. Harare recently published a notice in the Press seeking permission to borrow millions of dollars to finance various service delivery initiatives. “The City of Harare is seeking borrowing powers worth US$21 299 800 to buy the following in pursuit of providing services of the residents of Harare, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), roads, public safety and security services, social service programme, governance administration,” part of the notice read. According to the statement, some of the money will go towards the purchasing of five refuse compactors, an 18-seater omnibus, 52 tractors and water pipe replacement, among other equipment. Under roads, the city said it was looking forward to upgrading Fourth Street, Speke Avenue and Market Square bus terminus, adding that it was looking forward to repairing operational vehicles and running the social mobile programme. The local authority expressed intention to purchase a mobile clinic and operational vehicles. Council also indicated that under governance and administration, it was looking to purchase operational vehicles, eight buses, tyre fitting equipment, front loader, among other equipment. “Any ratepayer, who has objections, can lodge his or her objections, in writing, to the acting town clerk on or before close of business March 25, 2025,” the notice read. Harare Residents Trust director Precious Shumba yesterday accused the capital’s municipality of lacking transparency. “There is lack of transparency and accountability. Everything is being done in opaque manner. The council has no billing system,” he said. “In 2024, they offered vehicle loans to some senior executives and most of the money was paid to by council and they now want another. What for? “They have money. They are going to far away places to hold workshops in Victoria Falls, Kariba, which means they have the money. “As residents, we don’t know their financial status, so how can they borrow?” But mayor Jacob Mafume said they are going to take stiff measures to ring-fence the money. “We are going to make sure that the borrowed funds are ring-fenced and utilised effectively,” he said. “We will ensure that the money will go directly to the suppliers.” Combined Harare Residents Association director Reuben Akili yesterday said it was absurd that the local authorities are seeking borrowing powers. “We are not happy that council management and councillors in responsible committees are conniving to deceive and loot council funds in the name of service delivery. We are rejecting the borrowing powers being sought,” he said. “At the moment, nothing presently justifies the borrowing powers. They can’t ask for borrowing powers while they are paying each other hefty perks.” *_-Newsday_* 7. *ARMED ROBBERS POUNCE ON ZANU PF’S CHINAMASA* A brazen armed robbery shook the usually tranquil Headlands farming area last week, targeting Tsukumai Farm owned by Zanu PF Secretary for Legal Affairs, Cde Patrick Antony Chinamasa. The robbers made off with a brand-new Mazda BT-50 double cab vehicle, a gun and kitchen utensils, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. The armed robbery occurred on February 9, 2025 during the night, when the suspected robbers, driving a white Toyota Wish vehicle, stormed the farm and subdued the security officer manning the entrance to the main farm house, before pouncing on the farm manager. Cde Chinamasa and his family were not at the farm during the attack. Though efforts to get a comment from the police were fruitless, Cde Chinamasa on Wednesday confirmed the robbery, before referring further questions to his wife, Mrs Monica Chinamasa. Mrs Chinamasa said the robbers demanded to be shown where money was kept in the house. They severely assaulted the guard and manager, tying and covering them with blankets. The robbers made off with a blue Mazda BT-50 double cab, which was yet to be registered, and also stole a pistol from the gun cabinet. “The robbers were four when they stormed my house at the farm. They tied the hands of the farm manager and security guard who was manning the entrance gate. “They force-marched them into the house and covered them with blankets. They ran ransacked the house, turning everything upside down, looking for money, which fortunately was not there. There was no place or room they left unturned, be they beds and sofas, they were all turned upside down. “They took the car keys of my brand new Mazda BT-50, blue in colour, which we were yet to register. It had only travelled for 12 000km. They also took a pistol from the gun cabinet, a box of cocking oil and set of kitchen knives. It was more of the money which they wanted. “They drove away with my car. We suspect that they came driving a white Toyota Wish vehicle. We reported the matter the same night, and the police from Headlands came to record statements. The matter has since been transferred to the Criminal Investigations Department in Rusape. “The two employees were seriously injured, having been severely assaulted with iron bars. They were mainly attacked on the hands, and one of them suffered hearing impairment; his ears are currently non-functional. “They were treated and discharged from Rusape General Hospital, but remain in shock. As they were covered with blankets during the attack, they could not identify the type of guns used by the robbers. “This robbery has had a profound impact on us. I am currently unwell and in pain. The stolen car was essential for my work around the farm. I am devastated whenever I think about how these individuals could target us, assuming we kept money in the house. It is utterly unfair and unacceptable. These were simply criminals targeting us,” said Mrs Chinamasa. *_-Manica Post_* 8. *GRACE MUGABE REFLECTS ON ROBERT AND FOUNDING NAMIBIA PRESIDENT CLOSE BOND* The former first lady of Zimbabwe, Grace Mugabe, on Thursday shared insights into the close relationship between her late husband, Zimbabwe’s former president Robert Mugabe, and Namibia’s founding president, Sam Nujoma. Grace visited Nujoma’s wife, Kovambo, at the family residence in Windhoek to express her condolences on Thursday. Reflecting on their holidays in Namibia, Grace said she and Mugabe often visited Namibia when he was on leave. One of her fondest memories, she said, was when both families visited Terrace Bay with their children. There, she recalled, the two statesmen enjoyed fishing together. “They were very close. It was beautiful... So when I heard about the passing on of our dear friend, the president, I said I would present myself in person to offer my condolences. I couldn’t just stay in Zimbabwe and not come to commiserate with you, because of the relations we had and, specifically, the relationship he had with my husband,” Grace told Kovambo while comforting her. Grace also shared that she knew Nujoma before he became Namibia’s founding president, as he visited her husband a lot. “I knew President Nujoma even before he was president. When he was still fighting for the independence of the country, he used to visit my husband a lot. I would see them having conversations regarding what he wanted to see happen in Namibia, the commitment, the relentless fighting for what he thought was supposed to be the Namibia he wanted. He did it with so much love for the people of this country and when Namibia became independent, I was so happy because I saw him. I had experienced what he wanted for this country. I am happy that he was able to see all he wished for,” Grace said. She also praised Kovambo’s support for Nujoma, whom she described as a principled leader, noting the late icon’s achievements were made possible by her care and support. “I’m very happy to see you, Mama, I want to be like you, to live long like you. You are a source of inspiration, Mama. I also want to take this opportunity to thank you for looking after [your husband], you did a great job – because without you, he wouldn’t have accomplished a lot of things he accomplished in Namibia, in Africa and beyond. It was all because of your support, Mama,” Grace said. *_-NewZimbabwe_* 9. *LAWYERS SET TO APPEAL BLESSED MHLANGA’S BAIL DENIAL* Alpha Media Holdings (AMH) journalist Blessed Mhlanga is set to appeal his Friday bail denial by Harare magistrate Farai Gwitima who remanded to scribe in custody to 14 March 2025. Mhlanga is accused of transmitting information that incites violence following interviews with Blessed Geza, a war veteran currently challenging Mnangagwa’s presidency. Geza went into hiding after the police issued a statement stating that he is facing arrest for inciting public violence among other charges. On Friday, Gwitima turned down his bail application ruling that the prominent journalist was likely to reoffend and interfere with witnesses who include his juniors at work. The magistrate also said releasing Mhlanga will result in civil unrest and jeopardise peace in Zimbabwe. “What is an issue is not that the applicant gathered and disseminated information. It is that information which he gathered which was intended to incite public violence,” the magistrate said. “If granted bail, he is likely to interfere. Of critical importance some of the witnesses have not been recorded hence his release will jeopardize investigations. “What clearly emerges is that disseminated messages will incite violence. Any interpretation to the contrary will be incorrect. “Accordingly, the release of the accused will put the nation in unrest and undermine peace and security. “In the circumstances, it is the court’s finding that the state has managed to give compelling reasons justifying the continued detention of the accused person. Accordingly, bail is denied,” the magistrate ruled. Mhlanga’s lawyer, Chris Mhike said they are not happy with the ruling. Mhike said an appeal will be filed at the High Court. “We had really hoped for a positive outcome. While we accept the decision, we must make it clear that we strongly disagree with the conclusion and the determination made by the court. “Accordingly, we have been instructed to appeal this decision as soon as possible,” Mhike said in an interview with journalists after the ruling. AMH publisher, Trevor Ncube, who attended court in solidarity with his senior employee, said he is the one who should be in the dock instead. He also accused President Mnangagwa of capturing the courts adding that Mhlanga’s situation was a sad time for Zimbabwean media. “Blessed is not AMH. He’s just a journalist practising his profession, which is constitutionally protected, just like you guys are doing here, broadcasting to the public at home. “You can’t be accused of inciting the public for broadcasting what I’m saying right now. “I am the one who should be brought before the courts, not the journalists who transmit the information. So, I’m disappointed in that regard, but this is reality that we are in right now,” Ncube said. Meanwhile, in a hand written letter from his prison cell, Mhlanga said his intimidation shall come to pass adding that his arrest has bolstered him to do more. “There is a mile of difference between writing about injustice and experiencing it. My friends and I now have the benefit of it both. L Madhuku says law is law coz its law. Just or unjust. My experience teaches me that an unjust law is no law. “Dear friends, prison is meant to break you. It is meant to change you. I have learnt quite to the contrary. Prison makes you more resolute. I am stronger and I identify more with you than ever before. “They say when you are arrested, you are alone. That’s not true. I was never alone, your voices were with me. I stood proud in dark hours. My wife, my family were with me. I thank you. “To those behind my persecution, including prosecution aiding and baking injustice, I wish to say the sun will set. It won’t last forever,” he said. *_-ZimLive_* 10. *MATOBO FARMERS WELCOME RAINS, FEAR DAMAGES AND LOSSES* Farmers in Matobo district have welcomed the current incessant rains in the area after a prolonged drought amid new concerns over heavy downpours threatening crop survival. The experiences of some farmers from the district highlight the complexities of farming in a region prone to unpredictable weather patterns. While the rains have brought relief, they also underscore the need for farmers to adapt and grow a variety of crops to mitigate the effects of climate change. Sasa Ndebele, from Hlababomvu village under Chief Bidi, was ecstatic following the rains that are falling. “We are happy for the rains as we had lost hope,” Ndebele said. “Our water table had been so low, and we were out of ideas on how we were going to survive.” Ndebele reported that some houses were destroyed and livestock were trapped in the mud, resulting in significant losses. A farmer from Bidi village, Humphrey Mthunzi, echoed similar sentiments, adding that excess rains were affecting crop yields. “As a horticulture farmer, I am experiencing difficulties,” he said. “The weeds are overcoming the crops, and there is no chance for maintenance. “Vegetables like carrots and cabbages are rotting from the heavy rains.” Another farmer, Tania Chiwa from Mazwi village, under Chief Malaba, said: “The rains are too much. We haven’t even finished planting and it’s no longer workable. “Some crops are turning yellow, which will affect our yields.” Founder of Clive Goat Breeders, Theophilus Tendai Ncube, said the rains were a great benefit for livestock farmers. “As a livestock farmer, it is a great benefit to us because for the past three years, we went through a torrid time as we were losing our livestock due to drought,” he said. Farming expert Khulekani Dube advised farmers to adapt to the changing weather patterns. “Farmers must grow small grains like sorghum, millet and rapoko during dry seasons, while planting maize during seasons with plenty of rain,” Dube said. Another farming expert, Admire Vundla from Sihayi village, encouraged farmers to use manure and fertilizers when rains are promising. Farmers have been advised that due to the ongoing rains, those residing in areas where there are sandy soils should replenish the leached nutrients, as observations indicate signs of nutrient depletion. *_-Southern Eye_* 11. *ONE MONEY AIMS TO REVOLUTIONISE FINANCIAL INCLUSION IN ZIMBABWE* The country’s oldest mobile telecoms operator NetOne’s subsidiary ONE Money, a mobile financial services provider, is aiming to revolutionise financial inclusion through a suite of innovative financial products and services designed to reach the unbanked and underbanked populations. The move is part of ONE Money’s efforts to tap into Zimbabwe’s vast unbanked market, where an estimated 70% of the population lacks access to formal banking services. By leveraging mobile technology, ONE Money aims to provide affordable, convenient, and secure financial services to all Zimbabweans, regardless of their geographical location or financial status. OneMoney general manager Joseph Machiva said the platform’s goal is to bridge the gap between traditional banking and digital finance. “OneMoney is more than just a mobile wallet; it’s a financial empowerment tool,” he said. “Our goal is to bridge the gap between traditional banking and digital finance, ensuring that every Zimbabwean has access to secure, seamless, and efficient financial services.” NetOne group chief executive officer Raphael Mushanawani said the latest upgrade is a step towards making financial services accessible. “The strength of OneMoney lies in the strength of NetOne — our extensive distribution network, our commitment to technological advancement and our ability to serve communities at every level,” Mushanawani said. “The latest upgrade is a significant step towards a future where financial services are truly accessible to all.” The launch of ONE Money’s financial products and services is expected to have a significant impact on financial inclusion in Zimbabwe. According to a recent report by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, mobile financial services have the potential to increase financial inclusion by up to 50% in the next five years. Last year, Mushanawani disclosed that NetOne has laid the foundation to turn over US$1 billion annually by 2029, even as it battles to access capital. He said the state run operator had located pockets of opportunities to power his ambitious turnaround effort. The US$1 billion will represent a massive rise in revenue over five years, from a projected US$160 million this year. NetOne was the first to be licensed to operate a mobile telecoms business in 1996, before billionaire Strive Masiyiwa’s ultra-innovating Econet entered the market two years later, following a browsing legal tussle with government. The Zimbabwe Stock Exchange-listed privately-owned operator had 10 436 233 active subscribers during the first quarter of last year. NetOne trailed with 4 017 167. *_-Newsday_* 12. *U.S CONDEMNS ARREST, BAIL DENIAL OF AMH JOURNALIST BLESSED MHLANGA* The United States U.S embassy in Zimbabwe has strongly condemned the arrest of Alpha Media Holdings (AMH) journalist Blessed Mhlanga urging authorities to respect the fundamental rights to press freedom. Mhlanga was arrested Monday on allegations of transmission of information that incites violence or causes damage to property and is being charged under Section 164 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act Chapter 9:23. He was denied bail Friday as the magistrate said there is a chance that he would interfere with witnesses and jeopardize the investigation. In a statement Friday, the U.S embassy said all journalists should be entitled to constitutional protections, including the right to bail and freedom of speech. “Constitutional rights to bail and free speech, should apply to all journalists,” the U.S embassy said Charges against Mhlanga emanated from interviews he allegedly had with Blessed Geza, a ruling Zanu PF party war veteran and a staunch opponent of the Mnangagwa 2030 agenda. The police are actively looking for Geza to respond to charges of incitement, undermining the President’s authority, and theft. Geza called for President Emmerson Mnangagwa to resign from office immediately citing misrule. The ruling Zanu PF party is currently divided into two factions, one loyal to Mnangagwa, which advocates for suspending the 2028 elections to extend his rule until 2030, and another, reportedly aligned with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, which supports adhering to constitutional term limits. *_-NewZimbabwe_* 13. *SCOTTLAND CLAIM DRAMATIC LAST MINUTE WINNER AS PSL NEW SEASON GETS UNDERWAY* Scottland snatched a dramatic last minute winner over Triangle at Rufaro Stadium on Friday as the 2015 Premier Soccer League season officially got underway. Luke Masomere’s Triangle had looked good for the point but poor communication between defender Blessing Chiota and his goalkeeper Hamilton Makaingwana in injury time gifted the newly-promoted hosts victory. A speculative cross into the box created unnecessary panic for the Triangle defence. Chiota used his chest in an attempt to send it back for his goalkeeper to gather not realising that Makaingwana had raced off his line and was also vying for the ball. The duo watched in agony as the ball nestled in the net for an own goal. Scottland, the northern region Division One champions, have spent over US$1 million assembling the best players in the country but there was evidence they are yet to gel as a team. The lack of cohesion in their play gave coach Tonderayi Ndiraya a poser, but he would have been happy to start the campaign with all three points. Defending champions Simba Bhora get their campaign underway against FC Platinum at Wadzanai Stadium in Shamva on Saturday while CAPS United are on the road to Green Fuel on the same day. Dynamos host ZPC Kariba at Rufaro on Sunday while Highlanders take on league debutants MWOS at Baobab Stadium in Ngezi. *Premier Soccer League Fixtures* Saturday Herentals College v TelOne Simba Bhora v FC Platinum Manica Diamonds v Yadah Chicken Inn v Bikita Minerals Kwekwe United v Ngezi Platinum Stars Greenfuel v CAPS United Sunday Dynamos v ZPC Kariba MWOS v Highlanders *_-ZimLive_* 14. *MABVUKU WOMAN KILLS HUSBAND OVER INFIDELITY* Tragedy rocked Mabvuku community in Harare after a woman allegedly stabbed her 43-year-old husband following accusations of infidelity. When the ZBC News crew arrived at the scene of the crime, the body of the deceased, Duncan Chiwaya had just been taken by the police and relatives were left cleaning blood stains in the house. A visibly distraught mother, Janet Dumbu, was at a loss for words after the death of her son Chiwaya. “I knew nothing about their marital problems and I was only shocked to be called to see my son lying in a pool of blood, with my daughter-in-law beside the body,” she said. A neighbour, Ellen Luundi, who was playing the role of an aunt in the couple’s marriage, confirmed the two had been having problems. “They have been having problems. The wife accused Chiwaya of infidelity. Last week she had packed her bags with the intention of quitting the marriage and I helped them reconcile. Then I woke up to see missed calls from the husband, and when I tried to call back it was too late, a child was at my door knocking to tell me about this tragic event,” she said. The incident has left the neighbourhood shell-shocked. “This is painful, why do people kill each other when they have problems in marriage?” a community member asked. “It is better to walk out of a toxic marriage than killing each other, I am pained by the loss,” another community member said. Chiwaya, who was employed by the Women’s University in Africa, has left behind a three-year-old child, whom he had with his wife. As the community struggles to come to terms with the loss of life in such a manner, the case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the importance of seeking help when relationships turn sour. Police are yet to confirm the incident. *_-ZBC_* 15. *WOMAN JAILED 10 YEARS FOR ASSISTING A MAN TO RAPE HER 6-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER* A 43-year-old woman has been sentenced to 10 years in prison by the Mutare Magistrates’ Court after she was found guilty of facilitating the rape of her 6-year-old daughter, in Penhalonga, in 2022. The National Prosecution Authority (NPA) confirmed the case, saying the woman assisted an adult male unknown to the prosecutor, to rape the child one afternoon soon after the child arrived home from school. The NPA said: _The mother undressed the child while the unknown male was watching sitting on the bed. She then instructed her child to lie on her back on the bed._ _The unknown male took off his clothes and raped the child once, while the mother was watching, sitting on a chair in the bedroom._ _The matter eventually came to light in April 2024 when the child was living with her grandmother and she discovered that the child was suffering from urinary incontinence._ Urinary incontinence is the unintentional loss of bladder control, leading to urine leakage, and can range from occasional leaks when sneezing or coughing to a sudden, strong urge to urinate that doesn’t allow enough time to reach a bathroom. The child narrated that it began soon after she was raped. She revealed the role that her mother had played in the ordeal. *_-Pindula_* 16. *ZIMBABWEAN TWINS IN TROUBLE FOR MURDERING COLLEAGUE OVER SNOOKER IN BOTSWANA* Police in Francistown, Botswana, have arrested one 26-year-old Zimbabwean twin brother for allegedly killing their fellow countryman in a dispute over a snooker table. According to reports from the neighbouring country, the murder occurred on February 4 when the accused, Oshea Giant Moyo, allegedly ganged up with his twin brother (name not mentioned in court papers) and stabbed a fellow Zimbabwean, only identified as Sipho, in the head leading to his death. Moyo is detained in remand prison, while his twin brother is still on the run. This week, Moyo appeared at the Francistown Magistrates Court where he denied the charges and apportioned the blame on his twin brother, who is at large. He told the court that the deceased Sipho was fighting with his twin brother. “Sipho destroyed my snooker table some days back, I told my twin brother and he did not take it lightly. He went to confront him and a fight ensued,” Moyo told the court. “I was trying to stop them from fighting, I did not kill him. My twin then stabbed Sipho twice on the head and fled.” Moyo further challenged the police to hunt and arrest his brother before he skips the border to South Africa. “I suspect my twin might flee to our father in South Africa. I want to know what will happen to me?” he asked. However, the court told Moyo that he would be remanded in custody and will remain behind bars until his next court appearance on March 6. Meanwhile, police in Botswana have launched a manhunt for the other twin brother. *_-Southern Eye_* 17. *BOGUS KWEKWE COP CONVICTED AND JAILED OVER US$3 BRIBE DEMAND* A Kwekwe man, Peter Ndoma (38), who appeared in court accused of impersonating a police officer and attempting to extort money from a commuter omnibus operator, has been sentenced to eight months in prison. The court heard that on February 19 at Senderayi Roundabout in the Midlands town, Ndoma, a security guard, identified himself as a police officer and accused the informant of loading passengers at an undesignated place. According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), Ndoma then demanded US$3 to release the informant, which was handed over by Tafadzwa Mushangani, the owner of the commuter omnibus. “The informant, suspecting that Ndoma was not a real officer, alerted members of the public, who assisted in apprehending and escorting him to Kwekwe Central Police Station,” the NPAZ said. Ndoma, however, had his sentence reduced after three months were suspended on condition of good behaviour, while the remaining months were suspended on condition that he performs 175 hours of community service. *_-Southern Eye_*