*Sunday 23 February 2025* https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaatWAaBadmi3bUGfI3K *HEADLINES* *ICT Minister Mavetera flounders in attempt to defend dubious PhD qualification* *Banker Nicholas Vingirai gets his two farms back which were “wrongly acquired” by the State around 2005: thanks Mnangagwa for “facilitating” the return* *How Nyambirai snaked his way back into Steward Bank* *Zim’s airstrips, paradise for minerals smugglers* *Prosecutor-General gets more power to recover stolen assets* *49 killed as heavy rains wreak havoc* *Desperate plea from haunted Mbare hostels as ghosts wreak havoc: 11 family members have died so far, all buried at Mbudzi Cemetery* *Phase Out CALAs : Schools Ordered* *What it takes to start small delivery business in Zim* *One of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ attorneys wants to quit his defense team* *Dynamos lifts Castle Challenge Cup* *Marcus Rashford helps Aston Villa to win 2:1 over out-of-form Chelsea and it’s championship manager* *The Details: Controversial VAR call helps Man United avoid another loss* *Guirassy scores 4 goals for Dortmund, first to do so since Haaland in 2020* *Man Utd target finished Spurs forward Son* *MLS newcomers San Diego FC are close to agreeing a deal to sign 33-year-old Belgium forward Kevin de Bruyne on a free transfer when his Manchester City contract expires at the end of the season* *Real Madrid are set to enter the race for RB Leipzig's 22-year-old France centre-back Castello Lukeba, who is also of interest to Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United* *Nottingham Forest, Newcastle United and Everton are monitoring Marseille's 23-year-old Brazilian forward Luis Henrique* *Barcelona have made Liverpool's 28-year-old Colombia forward Luis Diaz a transfer priority this summer* *Chelsea are targeting French defender Loic Bade from Sevilla in the summer. The Blues are said to be willing to bid 30m euros (£24.9m) for the 24-year-old* *NEWS IN DETAIL* _*ICT Minister Mavetera flounders in attempt to defend dubious PhD qualification*_ INFORMATION and Communication Technology (ICT) Minister Tatenda Mavetera is facing a barrage of criticism regarding her alleged fabricated academic credentials, including a Doctorate in Philosophy (PhD). The allegations were recently brought to light by “Dug Up,” a platform run by United Kingdom-based Zimbabwean investigative journalist Maynard Manyowa, who exposed the controversial founder and leader of Young Women for ED. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Social media platform X, formerly Twitter, erupted early Saturday, with users mercilessly ridiculing Mavetera for what they perceive as a charade, following her attempts to defend herself against claims surrounding a purported PhD award that was revoked by the High Court of Zimbabwe last year. Mavetera appeared to be all at sea as she struggled to articulate her position on her current PhD studies at Midlands State University (MSU), failing to speak coherently. One X account, under the name Tawanda Mupindu, challenged Mavetera to address the rumours of her possessing a fake PhD, which Mavetera denied. “I am at the early stages of attaining one. I finished my taught courses two years ago and am now working on my proposal,” Mavetera wrote on her X account Saturday. However, former Mt Pleasant Member of Parliament and renowned lawyer, Fadzayi Mahere, took Mavetera to task, demanding an explanation as to how she intends to complete a doctorate in nine months. She also questioned why it has taken her six years to reach the proposal stage. “If you are telling the truth in your tweet, why have you been at the ‘proposal stage’ of your PhD dissertation for six years? Why has it taken you six years to get started? Why are you failing to even complete chapter one, an introductory chapter? “When did you get accepted to do a PhD at MSU? How did you get a PhD place without a substantive research proposal? Who is your thesis supervisor? “Your LinkedIn page further states you will have completed your PhD by November 2025. “How do you plan to complete a whole PhD in nine months if you’ve taken over six years to put together a research proposal? How will you balance this onerous academic burden with your role as a Cabinet minister, a Member of Parliament, and a senior party official?” This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Mavetera replied: “Covid and teething problems since it was a new course for Midlands State affected us. We started with 2 years taught courses. Proposal presentation started effectively last year. I did my part and personally went to present mine so we await the Higher degrees committee decision.” Mavetera also refuted claims by Dug Up that she paid an unnamed academic in Mutare to complete her PhD work on her behalf. “I wish I knew this person. Unfortunately, there is no name provided. Even to suggest that this person communicates with my supervisor, which institution in this world would allow such a thing? I am a public figure. Who would claim to be me, if they were not? I have not even started chapter one, so what would be the point of such deception?” she stated. Mavetera also denied allegations that she lacks the five Ordinary Level subjects required for university enrolment, a claim she vehemently dismissed as false, arguing that she could not have been enrolled at MSU, where she claims to be pursuing her PhD programme. “How does one get enrolled at a reputable university like MSU without those qualifications? For your information, I was Student Representative Council President at Women’s University in 2014. I was a class representative in 2016 at MSU while undertaking my strategic marketing masters, so everyone from my class would know me,” she explained. Mahere again laid into Mavetera, urging her to refrain from using the title “Dr.” “In the circumstances, can you agree that there is no lawful basis at this stage for you to present yourself as a “Dr.”? Can you understand why we are surprised that as recently as yesterday, your ministry was still using this title in relation to you?” In 2022, Mavetera was jubilant, announcing that she had been awarded a “Doctorate of Humane Letters” from the International Institute of Philanthropy (IIP). However, the “Doctorates of Humane Letters” issued by the IPP were officially revoked and withdrawn by the High Court of Zimbabwe in July of last year. Despite this, the government and her ministry continue to refer to Mavetera as “Dr.” This year, Shackmore Wellington Timburwa, another Zanu PF activist and Chegutu West Member of Parliament, was exposed as not holding a PhD in International Relations from the University of South Africa (UNISA), contrary to his claims on LinkedIn dating back to 2023. This year, yet another Zanu PF apologist, Prophet Walter Magaya, who was also a contestant for Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) presidency, was exposed for claiming a fake degree from the UNISA. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Magaya had approached the High Court to challenge his disqualification from contesting as ZIFA president, a move resulting from his failure to produce an O-Level certificate with at least five subject passes. _*Banker Nicholas Vingirai gets his two farms back which were “wrongly acquired” by the State around 2005: thanks Mnangagwa for “facilitating” the return*_ Banker Mr Nicholas Vingirai has thanked President Mnangagwa for breaking “the seemingly endless road of bureaucratic process and procedure” by facilitating the return of his two farms in Mashonaland West province — Doondo and Sholliver — which were “wrongly acquired” by the State around 2005. The Government had long made a determination that the farms were “wrongfully acquired” by the State and directed that they be returned to their rightful owner. In a recent ruling, High Court judge Justice Tawanda Chitapi granted a court order by consent of the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, as well as the Minister of State for Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution, which saw the return of the farms. The veteran banker was represented by Mr Tawanda Zvobgo of Zvobgo Attorneys. The High Court ruled that the acquisition of the farms “was wrongful and erroneous” and that “the gazetting of the compulsory acquisition” by the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, as well as “the subsequent endorsement of such compulsory acquisition” by the Registrar of Deeds “in the deeds registry are null and void ab initio and are hereby set aside”. The court order went further to declare Mr Vingirai and his two companies — Broxfield Enterprises (Pvt) Ltd and Doondo Farm (Pvt) Ltd — as “the valid and lawful owners” of the farms. The Registrar of Deeds was directed to cancel any and all endorsements made, as well as any caveats registered over the title deeds. The Registrar of Deeds has since confirmed the cancellation of the gazetting endorsement under consent numbers 278/2025 and 279/25. Contacted for comment, Mr Vingirai said: “It has been a painful 20-year struggle for justice. I am naturally delighted by the developments. It is heartening that Government has remained resolute and faithful to its 2015 decision to return our farms, a decision that has been frustrated for 20 years by certain corrupt and unscrupulous officials,” he said. “I am ever grateful to His Excellency, President Dr ED Mnangagwa, and his Government for his intervention that broke the seemingly endless winding road of bureaucratic process and procedure.” Doondo and Sholliver farms were compulsorily acquired in 2005 after the banker was accused of 11 counts of theft and externalisation of funds, leading to Cabinet ordering the return of the farms and Intermarket banking and insurance group in 2015. He was later cleared of the charges. In addition, separate investigations commissioned by the Government later made a finding that the acquisitions were irregular. In 2020, the Second Republic gazetted Statutory Instrument 62 of 2020, which was designed to give back land to indigenous Zimbabweans or compensate them — depending on the circumstances — for farms they might have lost during the Fast-Track Land Reform Programme. By indigenous individuals, the Government meant people of Zimbabwean origin who were previously marginalised before 1980 and had acquired land either through direct purchase or through Government commercial farm schemes before the land reform. Sunday Mail _*How Nyambirai snaked his way back into Steward Bank*_ City businessman, Tawanda Nyambirai, the architect behind Steward Bank’s success, has engineered a remarkable return, reclaiming ownership of the institution he once built. His dramatic move comes after a significant restructuring of EcoCash Holdings Zimbabwe Limited (EHZL)’s shareholding, culminating in Nyambirai assuming control of the bank he founded. Nyambirai now also serves as group chief executive officer of EHZL. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Nyambirai’s connection to Steward Bank began with its transformation from TN Bank, which he also led. Following the sale of TN Bank to Econet Wireless in 2012, Nyambirai’s association with the bank continued through his leadership of TN Asset Management (TNAM). He explained the complex series of events that led to his return and ultimate acquisition. “I developed TNAM to be the second largest asset manager in Zimbabwe after Old Mutual, by Funds under Management,” he said. “As TNAM, we were the underwriters of the EcoCash Holdings Zimbabwe Limited Rights Offer last year.” This underwriting, he explained, led to TNAM acquiring a 25 percent shareholding in the bank holding company after the transfer of fintech assets, including EcoCash, to Econet. He noted that Econet’s strategic focus had shifted towards fintech, creating an opening for him. “Therefore, there was an opportunity to increase my stake beyond 25 percent,” Nyambirai stated. “I was always sentimentally attached to the bank as its founder. I had the capacity to increase my shareholding. So, I took the opportunity.” Crucial to Nyambirai’s plan were recent shareholder changes at EHZL. He now controls over 50 percent of the bank holding company, with 25 percent subject to regulatory approval from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe. He outlined the new shareholder structure: “The top seven shareholders of the Bank Holding Company are as follows: 1 TN Asset Management Nominees 53.261 percent, 2 Econet Wireless Zimbabwe Limited 12.351 percent, 3 Econet Global Limited 9.01 percent, 4 Stanbic Nominees (private) Limited (NNR) 3.519 percent, 5 Stanbic Nominees (private) Limited 3.41 percent, 6 Old Mutual Life Assurance Company of Zimbabwe Limited 3.037 percent, 7 Econet Wireless Zimbabwe SPV Limited 2.47 percent.” This significant shift in ownership prompted a board restructuring, with several directors resigning, including chairperson Sherree Gladys Shereni. Dr. Titus Murefu has been appointed the new chairman. Nyambirai’s appointment as Group CEO solidifies his control and signals a renewed focus on his vision for the institution. His return comes at a critical juncture for both the Zimbabwean economy and EHZL. Analysts suggest that his extensive experience in building and scaling financial institutions will be invaluable in navigating the current economic complexities. Nyambirai’s vision involves transforming the bank into a “CyberTech banking group.” He described a future where “the traditional branch will be replaced by a banking kiosk from which customers will transact using computers, smart phones and iPads and ATMs. Picture the set up in modern phone shops that you find abroad. Then you will get the picture I am trying to paint.” He also plans to enhance the online banking platform to allow for automatic account opening and emphasised a renewed focus on customer service, guided by the values of Innovare, Dignitas, Industria, Fides, Originalis and Humilitas (IDIFOH). Reflecting on his past decisions, Nyambirai said: “Selling the bank was one of my best decisions ever and buying it back is a good decision.” He emphasised the importance of making “good timely data driven decisions, even if the decisions seem to go against the grain,” and added, “I have learnt never to allow my detractors to define me.” This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. He acknowledged the regulatory hurdles in Zimbabwe’s financial sector, citing “an ever-shifting regulatory environment” and the impact of sanctions. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. “The biggest risk in the Zimbabwean financial services sector is regulatory,” he asserted. However, he sees opportunities in technology. “If we innovate enough and quickly enough, we may still become a great bank,” he stated. Addressing stakeholders directly, Nyambirai acknowledged the need for workforce adjustments. “The bank is over employed. We must right size,” he said. However, he pledged to explore all options to save jobs before resorting to retrenchments. He plans to establish a private equity/venture capital fund to support retrenched employees in becoming entrepreneurs. “The message to employees is that retrenchments are coming. But they will come with a silver lining. This will be a chance of a lifetime to become a well-capitalised entrepreneur,” he said. He also assured shareholders of his commitment to strong returns. “I will ensure delivery of a good return to the shareholders,” he stated. Nyambirai’s view of financial inclusion extends beyond simply opening bank accounts. “To be meaningful, financial inclusion must empower citizens with resources that they can use to conduct trade and commerce,” he explained. He emphasised the importance of lending to productive sectors of the economy to create jobs and empower citizens. He confirmed that his plans encompass both short-term and long-term goals. Ecocash Holdings to rebrand Meanwhile Econet Wireless Zimbabwe says EcoCash Holdings is in the process of changing its name to remove the reference to EcoCash, as the company no longer owns EcoCash and the other fintech businesses. This follows shareholder changes whereby Nyambirai’s TN acquired 53,3 percent of the Bank Holding Company, of which 25 percent was already held in line with the Banking Act and Regulations. The remaining 28.3 percent, is subject to a pending Application to the Registrar of Banks to hold in excess of the permitted 25 percent limit, before beneficial ownership is transferred. According to a joint statement published today, Econet Wireless Zimbabwe Limited and Econet Global Limited currently have a shareholding position in the Bank Holding Company of 12.4 percent and 12.5 percent, respectively and intend to maintain a strategic shareholding in the Bank Holding Company. In April 2024, Econet Wireless and EcoCash Holdings concluded a Scheme of Reconstruction whereby all the Financial Technology Businesses, namely EcoCash (Private) Limited, VAYA Technologies Zimbabwe (Private) Limited, Econet Insurance (Private) Limited, Econet Life (Private) Limited, MARS Zimbabwe (Private) Limited and Maisha Health Fund (Private) Limited, were transferred from EcoCash Holdings to Econet Wireless Zimbabwe Limited. “As a result of this reorganisation, EcoCash Holdings Zimbabwe Limited retained its status as a ‘Bank Holding Company” with Steward Bank Limited as its only asset,” reads part of the statement. In terms of operational continuity, the companies said the Fintech businesses have been operating as subsidiaries of Econet Wireless Zimbabwe Limited since April 2024, and their performance was reported in the company’s public financial reports for the half year ended August 2024 under the Mobile Money and Insurance segments. According to the joint statement, Eddie Chibi continues as chief executive officer of the Financial Technology Businesses that are now held as subsidiaries of Econet Wireless Zimbabwe. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. “All existing fintech, mobile money, and banking services operations continue uninterrupted,” reads the statement. Already, Nyambirai has made board changes with several directors resigning, including chairperson Sherree Gladys Shereni. Dr Titus Murefu has been appointed the new chairman. His appointment as Group CEO solidifies his control and signals a renewed focus on his vision for the institution. He also plans to enhance the online banking platform to allow for automatic account opening and emphasised a renewed focus on customer service, guided by the values of Innovare, Dignitas, Industria, Fides, Originalis, and Humilitas (IDIFOH). _*Zim’s airstrips, paradise for minerals smugglers*_ Zimbabwe’s remote airstrips are allegedly being exploited to smuggle precious minerals out of the country, raising concerns about revenue leakages, according to a study by the Southern Africa Resource Watch (SARW) released in January this year. SARW, based in South Africa and an independent non-profit organisation monitoring natural resource extraction in the southern African region, has noted the clandestine operations are being enabled by lack of technology and of modern radar systems capable of effectively monitoring these aviation facilities. The Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ), currently does not have a dedicated radar system specifically for small airstrips, as most smaller airports in the country typically rely on basic visual monitoring due to the high cost of installing and maintaining a full radar system at such locations. However, there are efforts to install enhanced ground-to-air communication systems at various airports, improving air traffic control capabilities even without a dedicated radar on smaller airstrips. The unmonitored airstrips, often located in remote areas and farmland, provide a convenient and discreet route for minerals smugglers to bypass official customs and export controls. While the report did not disclose specific minerals being smuggled, Zimbabwe is known to possess significant reserves of gold, diamonds and other precious resources, making them lucrative targets for illicit trade. “Border controls are important, but small aeroplanes may still be a menace,” revealed the report. Previous reports have exposed the large-scale smuggling from Zimbabwe using private jets, with gold and diamond smuggling being particularly prevalent. For instance, some observers suggest the country’s official gold output statistics may only represent a fraction of the actual production, with a significant portion being smuggled out of the country through clandestine operations. The use of private jets allows smugglers to bypass regular customs checks and transport large quantities of precious minerals undetected. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The scale of the smuggling is so significant that some critics believe the actual gold output could be more than double the officially reported figures. According to the International Crisis Group, an independent, non-profit organisation dedicated to preventing and resolving deadly conflict, Zimbabwe could be losing an estimated US$1,5 billion annually to gold smugglers, a significant drain on export revenue. The loss is exacerbated by the fact that most gold is mined by small-scale operators who often face delayed payments from the State’s sole authorised buyer, Fidelity Gold Refinery. The late payment forces some miners, who produce about 65 percent of the national gold output, to seek alternative, often illicit, channels to sell their gold. “The current system (at the small airstrips) is simply not up to the task,” said a Harare-based aviation expert, speaking on condition of anonymity. “We need significant investment in new radar technology and surveillance systems to effectively monitor all aircraft movements in and out of the country. “The current gaps are being exploited, and Zimbabwe is losing valuable resources as a result.” The expert also noted that the lack of adequate monitoring capabilities also raises security concerns, as it becomes difficult to track who is entering and leaving the country, potentially facilitating other illegal activities beyond mineral smuggling. Zimbabwe generates about 75 percent of its export receipts from the mining industry. The study revelations come at a time when the Government is actively seeking to boost its revenue collection and attract foreign investment in the mining sector. The ongoing smuggling operations are undermining these efforts and depriving the country of much-needed foreign currency. Last year, Mines and Mining Development, Minister Winston Chitando, acknowledged the widespread problem of gold smuggling, saying the Government would address it by increasing surveillance at mining sites. Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister, Professor Mthuli Ncube, is on record that Zimbabwe’s gold is mainly smuggled to places such as Dubai. However, the approach presents significant challenges, as it may only be effectively implemented at established, formal mining operations, leaving numerous smaller, informal sites largely unchecked. The SARW report also highlights governance challenges in mineral extraction and trade, citing revenue leakages fuelling smuggling, inadequate government disclosures, weak regulatory enforcement at mines and poor information sharing among government bodies. It notes that skill gaps in evaluating mining data, coupled with insufficient verification and assaying, allow sophisticated mining companies to exploit loopholes for illicit activities. Weak tax laws and poor enforcement, including inadequate weighbridges, further exacerbate revenue losses. The report questions the Government’s ability to detect illicit mineral and machinery trade, particularly distinguishing silica from lithium exports, emphasising that while border controls are crucial, small aircraft pose a continuing threat. _*Prosecutor-General gets more power to recover stolen assets*_ IN a landmark ruling that sets a precedent for asset seizures by the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), the High Court has empowered the Prosecutor-General to confiscate legitimately acquired property of equivalent value when stolen assets cannot be located or identified. High Court judge Justice Benjamin Chikowero made the ruling on February 14 in a case where the Prosecutor-General sought an order to confiscate legally obtained property belonging to Phillip Tendenedzai to recover money he had stolen from his employer. On February 10, 2023, Tendenedzai was convicted by a Harare magistrate of theft of trust property after embezzling US$13 147 from various branches of his employer, Optinova Eye Care. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. As a driver and messenger, he converted the money to his own use. Police investigations failed to recover any of the stolen funds. Upon conviction, Tendenedzai was sentenced to five years in prison, with one year suspended on condition of good behaviour. An additional two years were suspended on condition he restituted Optinova Eye Care the full US$13 147 through the clerk of court at the Harare Magistrates’ Court by June 30, 2023. However, Tendenedzai unsuccessfully appealed against both his conviction and sentence at the High Court. When he failed to pay the restitution, he opted to serve the alternative two-year jail term that had been conditionally suspended. The Prosecutor-General was unable to locate the stolen US$13 147 or identify any property acquired with the proceeds of the theft. In such circumstances, the NPAZ could not pursue civil forfeiture or apply for the confiscation of tainted property or its proceeds. However, the Prosecutor-General identified property owned by Tendenedzai in Caledonia, Harare, specifically stand Number 13800. The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works was instructed to conduct a valuation of Tendenedzai’s rights and interests in the property. The valuation report, completed on May 27, 2024, established that the open market value of the property, including a house built on it, was US$40 000. It was also confirmed that Tendenedzai had used legally obtained funds to purchase and develop the property. Armed with this information, the Prosecutor-General filed an application on September 12, 2024, seeking to confiscate property up to the value of US$13 147 from the US$40 000 estate. However, Tendenedzai, through his lawyers, opposed the application, arguing that he had already served his two-year prison sentence, which had initially been suspended on condition he restitutes his former employer. He contended that there was no legal basis for confiscating his legally obtained property to recover the stolen money. However, Justice Chikowero dismissed Tendenedzai’s argument, stating: “That cannot be correct. The survey of international legal instruments and comparative jurisprudence reflected in this judgment demonstrates that the object of an order of confiscation of property equivalent in value to the unlocated or unidentified tainted property is rooted in combating serious economic crime. “As pointed out by the Botswana High Court in Director of Public Prosecution vs Kgori Capital (supra) offenders of the kind of Phillip (Tendenedzai), who view imprisonment as an occupational risk worth taking so long as they can keep and enjoy the profits of crime after serving their sentences, need to know that gains derived from crime will in one way or the other be taken away from them. Taking away Phillip’s untainted property equivalent in value to the unlocated tainted property is the answer. That will deter persons from committing serious economic crimes as the prospect of profiting from crime would be illusory.” Justice Chikowero then ordered the confiscation of Tendenedzai’s rights and interests in stand No 13800, Caledonia, up to the value of US$13 147, transferring ownership to the State. Sunday Mail _*49 killed as heavy rains wreak havoc*_ FORTY-NINE people have been killed in extreme weather incidents that have been recorded since the start of the rainy season, with the authorities forecasting more heavy rains across the country until tomorrow. The expected downpours could trigger flash floods and landslides, endangering communities in low-lying areas. Inclement weather has already caused widespread destruction of private property and public infrastructure — including roads, bridges, shops and a church — valued at over US$330 000. Additionally, 992 houses and 139 schools have been damaged. Responding to an inquiry from The Sunday Mail, Department of Civil Protection chief director Mr Nathan Nkomo said: “Weather advisory forecasted heavy rains across all the country’s 10 provinces starting from February 19 to 24, 2025. The downpours have the potential to cause flash flooding, riverine flooding, landslides, mudslides and lightning, posing danger to communities, especially those in low-lying areas.” This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The department, he said, had recorded multiple incidents of drowning resulting from flash flooding. In one incident, a 50-year-old Shurugwi man drowned in Mutevekwi River on February 16, with his body retrieved two days later by the police sub-aqua unit. State Media _*Desperate plea from haunted Mbare hostels as ghosts wreak havoc: 11 family members have died so far, all buried at Mbudzi Cemetery*_ A chilling tale of fear and suspected witchcraft has emerged from the Matererini Hostels in Mbare, where a 37-year-old man claims he is being relentlessly hunted by unseen assailants. Joseph Jameson, who resides with his mother, says he lives in constant terror, pursued by a convoy of cars and motorcycles driven by figures only he can perceive. According to Jameson, these unseen tormentors are intent on killing him and taking his photograph. “Whenever I step outside to do my work of transporting goods with my cart, I see these people,” he explained. “They arrive in a convoy of four cars, two white and two black, along with motorcycles, and they start chasing me, trying to run me over, beat me, and take my picture. I have to run towards other people for help, but when I talk to them, they say they can’t see these people, only I can.” Desperate for help, Jameson reported the matter to the police, who accompanied him to the location where he claimed to see his pursuers. However, officers were unable to corroborate his claims, seeing nothing. “I tried to get help from the police because of these people who are chasing me, but the police came and said they didn’t see anything,” Jameson said. “Some people are now saying I’m going crazy, others say I’m taking drugs like ‘mutoriro’ and marijuana. I’m not crazy, and I’ve never taken drugs in my life. I don’t know, maybe these are what they call ‘zvikwambo’ (goblins) or ‘zvidhoma’ (spirit creatures) that I’m seeing.” The ordeal has taken a heavy toll on Jameson’s life. His wife has left him, and he has been forced to abandon his livelihood as a cart transporter, leaving him and his family struggling to survive. “I live with my mother and my cousin, who used to get food and other things from my cart business,” he said. “I have never done anything in my life that would make me think I used witchcraft.” Jameson believes the source of his troubles may be linked to the death of his brother, Simba Bhuru Jameson, who passed away on 4 July last year and was buried at Mbudzi Cemetery. “After my brother died, since we were only three left out of the ten children we were born, that’s when I started seeing these people chasing me,” he said. “I don’t know if it has anything to do with the deceased or if there are other enemies involved, I don’t know.” His sister, Clarah Kabutu (45), who lives in Epworth, says the family is convinced they are victims of witchcraft. “My brother runs away from people he says want to kill him, but we don’t see them, only he sees them,” she explained. “He says there are many of them with cars and motorcycles. He has never drunk alcohol, smoked marijuana, or lost his mind because he is someone we live with. We are being told we are bewitched wherever we go, maybe it’s what they call ‘ngozi’ (avenging spirit).” Kabutu revealed that the family has suffered a series of tragic deaths over the years. “My brother Simba Bhuru Jameson was just said to have contracted TB, and he stayed in the hospital for a while before he died on 4 July last year. A few days later, Joseph started getting sick and his feet swelled up. Then he started saying there were people with cars and motorcycles chasing him, even though we couldn’t see them, and it’s still like that today,” she said. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. She added that eight of their siblings have died since 1996. “We are dying, imagine, some say it’s ‘ngozi’, other prophets say it’s witchcraft. We were ten children, but from 1996 until now, eight of my mother’s children have died, we are only left with two, me and Jose, who is being chased by what he alone sees. On top of these 8 bodies that we buried at Mbudzi, there are three bodies of grandchildren who were also buried at Mbudzi from 1996 until now. That means we have 11 graves at Mbudzi, our father died and we were left with our mother only,” Kabutu lamented. The situation has become so dire that Jameson is now afraid to leave his home, even to use the toilet. “Joseph Jameson is now living locked up in the house, sleeping out of fear of these people he says are chasing him, and he is afraid to go to the toilet, saying he sees them waiting for him there, telling him not to relieve himself,” Kabutu said. The family’s matriarch, Mbuya Alice Jameson (80), is heartbroken and desperate for a solution. “I have no idea what to do, I buried eight of my children and three grandchildren, who will take care of me now?” she asked. “The boy I’m left with who was taking care of me says he is always being chased by people he alone sees, he can no longer work, so we are starving. I need help so that this problem can end.” Ngonidzashe Jameson (28), a cousin, confirmed that he has witnessed Joseph fleeing from unseen pursuers. “When I go out, we don’t see those people, those cars, and those motorcycles,” he said. “I even accompany him when he wants to do his work, where he tells me that those people are following.” The Jameson family is appealing for assistance in finding a solution to their plight, whether it be medical, spiritual, or otherwise. They are desperate to break the cycle of death and fear that has gripped their lives. _*Phase Out CALAs : Schools Ordered*_ The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has urged schools nationwide to fully and promptly embrace the new policy of school-based projects and to completely phase out the use of Continuous Assessment Learning Activities (CALAs). The call comes amid reports that some schools were taking too long to transition from the CALAs into the new policy thereby putting a lot of pressure on both learners and parents ahead of the September to November examinations. In an interview with Sunday News last week, the Ministry’s Communication and Advocacy Director, Mr Taungana Ndoro stressed the importance of timeously informing parents and pupils about the new policy which took effect at the beginning of the year. Mr Ndoro explained that the adopted policy aims to streamline the assessment process and alleviate the burden on both learners and teachers. “The school-based projects are intended to be more practical, relevant, and aligned with the competencies we want our learners to develop. They provide a holistic approach to assessment, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts,” he stated. He further clarified that the implementation of this transition will occur in phases to facilitate a smooth adjustment. For the upcoming this year’s examinations, schools will be required to incorporate the new school-based projects as part of their assessment criteria. However, for the June examinations, CALAs will be utilised for the last time before being completely phased out. “This is a transitional period designed to allow schools to adapt to the new system. We recognise that change can be challenging, but we are confident that this shift will bring long-term benefits to our education system,” remarked Mr Ndoro. Sunday News _*What it takes to start small delivery business in Zim*_ THE rise of online shopping and food delivery in Zimbabwe has opened up a promising opportunity: running a small delivery business. It sounds simple — buy a bike, get a phone and start making deliveries. But, as with most things in Zimbabwe, the reality is more complicated. Before you hit the road, you will need cash, paperwork and a good dose of patience. Costs A delivery business starts with one essential tool: a vehicle. In Zimbabwe, most small-scale operators choose motorcycles for their fuel efficiency and ability to weave through traffic. Here is what that investment looks like: Motorcycle — A second-hand bike costs between US$700 and US$1 500. A brand-new one? Expect to pay upwards of US$2 000. A small delivery van — ideal for bulkier orders — will set you back at least US$5 000. Licensing and registration — Registering your business with the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority costs US$100 to US$200, depending on your structure. Then there is commercial vehicle registration and licensing, which adds another US$100 to US$300. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Insurance — Third-party insurance for a motorcycle costs about US$50 a year. Comprehensive coverage, which is a good idea if you do not want to be left stranded after an accident, is around US$250. Vans cost significantly more to insure. Delivery box and branding — A secure delivery box costs around US$100, and if you want to look professional, adding branding brings the total to US$150. Running the business You have bought your bike, your paperwork is sorted and you are ready to roll, but now comes the tricky part — making it a business. Fuel and maintenance — A motorbike burns through about US$5 to US$10 worth of fuel per day, depending on mileage. Maintenance — oil changes, tyres and servicing — adds another US$200 to US$500 per year. Payment systems — Zimbabwe is largely cashless. To get paid efficiently, you will need an EcoCash or ZIPIT account. If you want to cater for businesses, a point-of-sale machine costs around US$300. Marketing — Word-of-mouth is great but a basic social media presence is essential. A Facebook page is free, but running adverts to attract customers might cost US$50 to US$200 a month. A website? That is another US$200. Permits and compliance — If you are handling food deliveries, some cities require health clearances, which cost around US$50. If you plan to scale up, renting a small office or storage space starts at US$150 per month in Harare, for example. Can you make money? Let us do some quick math. Most small operators charge US$2 to US$5 per trip within Harare. If you are doing 10 deliveries a day, that is up to US$1 500 a month before expenses. After fuel, maintenance and other running costs, you are left with US$700 to US$1 000 — not bad, but not exactly a goldmine. The real money comes with volume. A delivery business in Zimbabwe is possible, but it is not easy. Success depends on cutting costs, marketing smartly and building a loyal client base, one parcel at a time. Sunday Mail _*One of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ attorneys wants to quit his defense team*_ One of the attorneys for Sean “Diddy” Combs in his sex trafficking case wants to quit the hip-hop mogul’s defense team. Defense lawyer Anthony Ricco filed notice on Thursday in Manhattan federal court that he no longer wants to represent Combs, writing “under no circumstances can I continue to effectively serve as counsel.” Ricco, one of six attorneys representing Combs, did not offer any details about the decision. The court must first sign off on his decision to leave the case. Combs, 55, has pleaded not guilty to sex trafficking charges lodged against him after his September arrest. He remains incarcerated without bail, awaiting a May 5 trial. Federal prosecutors say he used his wealth and influence to coerce female victims and male sex workers into drug-fueled sexual performances, and used blackmail and violence to intimidate and threaten his victims. Combs also faces several sexual assault lawsuits. Ricco said he had discussed leaving the defense team with Combs’ lead attorney and added that the move would not cause a delay in Combs’ upcoming trial. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. _*Dynamos lifts Castle Challenge Cup*_ Dynamos Football Club has lifted the 2025 Castle Challenge Cup after edging Simba Bhora by 4 goals to 5 in penalty shootout. The two teams were locked at one in regulation time, resulting in extra time being awarded which did not produce the winner either. The match was evenly balanced from start to finish with each side getting its share of chances, most of them which were wasted. Simba Bhora drew first blood halfway in the second half, Dynamos upped the tempo and restored parity a couple of minutes later. _*Marcus Rashford helps Aston Villa to win 2:1 over out-of-form Chelsea and it’s championship manager*_ Aston Villa's Marco Asensio bagged a brace and fellow newcomer Marcus Rashford had two assists as their side roared back from a goal down to beat Chelsea 2-1 in a breathless Premier League match at Villa Park on Saturday. The victory buoyed Villa's hopes of a Champions League berth next season as Unai Emery's men climbed to seventh in the table on 42 points, one point behind Chelsea who fell to sixth. Asensio's 89th-minute winner was thanks to a huge blunder by Chelsea keeper Filip Jørgensen, who inexplicably let the Spaniard's shot slip under his body. "The performance from the team was incredible," Asensio told Sky Sports. "We need to continue but the team is in the right way. I am very happy for my first goals and for the win." This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The visitors, who have not won an away league game since early December, drew first blood when Pedro Neto drove the ball down the right on the break before whipping in a cross that Enzo Fernández slotted home from close range. Both sides had numerous near misses before Asensio bundled in a cross from halftime substitute Rashford in the 57th minute. Asensio slotted home another Rashford cross for the winner. Asensio and Rashford both joined Villa on loan earlier this month, from Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United respectively. The game marked the best in a Villa shirt for Rashford, who looks keen to impress his new team after having fallen out of favour with United manager Ruben Amorim. Villa midfielder Youri Tielemans said the team was very pleased to have acquired the forward. "Listen, Marcus is someone, he can threaten anyone one [versus] one, even one [versus] two, he's very important for us in the way that he plays, because he gives us something on that left-hand side," Tielemans told Sky. "Today, every time he got the ball he was dangerous." Both sides squandered numerous opportunities, with Chelsea having seven shots on target to Villa's six. Emery thought his players were perhaps still feeling the effects of playing on Wednesday in a 2-2 draw with league leaders Liverpool. "Today we started very bad and conceded a goal, second in the duels, were late and slow on the press, not getting the players on the field as we planned," Emery said. "Then we progressively got better. The last two games we had chances at the end of the match and did not score. Today we had chances at the end and we scored." Chelsea's Cole Palmer had a bagful of chances, including a shot that sailed just wide and another that went over the crossbar. The England midfielder had a terrific late chance when he had keeper Emiliano Martínez beaten but defender Ezri Konsa sprinted over to block it. "Today was a tough one because again 1-0 up, we had chances to score, even after the 1-1, I think we had some great chances," Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca said. "But in this league you have to be very clinical until the end because anything can happen." _*The Details: Controversial VAR call helps Man United avoid another loss*_ A controversial, last-gasp VAR call might have spared Manchester United another loss in a Premier League game against Everton in which manager Ruben Amorim said his players “didn’t exist” in the first half. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. United rallied from two goals down before benefitting from an overturned decision following a video review to draw 2-2 at Goodison Park on Saturday. In the third minute of stoppage time, Everton was awarded a penalty by on-field referee Andrew Madley for a foul by Harry Maguire on Ashley Young, who fell to the ground dramatically under pressure from Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt. The Video Assistant Referee advised Madley to view the incident again on the pitchside monitor, suggesting the referee might have made the wrong call, and Madley wound up changing his mind. The final decision bemused Everton manager David Moyes, who couldn’t understand why Madley wasn’t shown a clear view of an apparent pull on Young’s shirt by De Ligt when he looked at the monitor. When told the decision was reversed after reviewing the challenge by Maguire, Moyes said: “So did they look at the shirt pull? So they only mentioned the bit they needed to? “It looked to me as though the shirt pull was enough. … You shouldn’t be getting away with pulling jerseys. … I just thought the referee made the correct decision at the time and he should have stuck with it.” Uruguay midfielder Manuel Ugarte grabbed the 80th-minute equalizer for United with his first goal at club level in four years, eight minutes after Bruno Fernandes started the visitors’ fightback at Goodison Park by curling in a free kick. United had been on course to slip to a third straight loss — and ninth defeat in 15 league matches since Amorim took charge in November — after first-half goals by Beto and Abdoulaye Doucoure for resurgent Everton. Speaking on British broadcaster TNT Sports shortly before Fernandes sparked the comeback, former United defender Rio Ferdinand described the team’s display as “embarrassing” and “unforgivable.” Advertisement Amorim said United’s players “just played one half and we managed to draw the game.” “We didn’t exist in the first half,” he said. “I think the free man was there, I think the space was there, but I think we lost balls we cannot lose.” The comeback doesn’t mask the big problems facing Amorim as he looks to get the fallen English giant up the standings from its current embarrassing position of 15th place. “We need to survive this season and then we can think ahead,” Amorim said. _*Guirassy scores 4 goals for Dortmund, first to do so since Haaland in 2020*_ Serhou Guirassy became the first player since Erling Haaland to score four goals for Borussia Dortmund in a 6-0 rout of Union Berlin on Saturday in the Bundesliga. “Four goals, victory, amazing fans,” Guirassy told broadcaster Sky after the game. “The first time in my life, I think. Four goals is such a great thing. I’m happy of course, but always, the most important is the team and the victory.” Haaland scored his four in a 5-2 win at Hertha Berlin in November 2020. “World class,” Dortmund coach Niko Kovač said of Guirassy’s performance. “There’s nothing else to say.” Kovač also praised midfielder Pascal Gross for setting up four goals. Guirassy had only scored nine in 19 league games prior to Union’s visit, far from reaching the 28 goals he scored in 28 Bundesliga appearances for Stuttgart last season. Altogether he scored 44 goals in 58 games over two seasons at Stuttgart after joining the German club from French team Rennes in 2022. The Guinea star was the second player after Germany defender Waldemar Anton to join Dortmund from Bundesliga runner-up Stuttgart last summer, but both struggled to impress as Dortmund made a faltering start to the season. The club finally fired Nuri Sahin as coach in January, appointing Kovač, the former Eintracht Frankfurt and Bayern Munich coach, in his place. But Kovač also labored to get the team going as as Dortmund lost both of his first two Bundesliga games in charge. Performances in the Champions League suggested the team was capable of more. Dortmund won 3-0 at Sporting Lisbon, then drew 0-0 against the Portuguese team on Wednesday to seal progress to the last 16. Guirassy scored one goal and set up another in Lisbon. He has 10 goals and five assists in the Champions League this season. At Stuttgart, Guirassy thrived in a strike partnership with Germany forward Deniz Undav. At Dortmund he has been more isolated. He benefited from Gio Reyna being given a rare start on Saturday as Kovač gave the young American just his second league start this season. _*Man Utd target finished Spurs forward Son*_ Manchester United are considering a move for Tottenham's 32-year-old South Korea forward Son Heung-min. *MLS newcomers San Diego FC are close to agreeing a deal to sign 33-year-old Belgium forward Kevin de Bruyne on a free transfer when his Manchester City contract expires at the end of the season* *Real Madrid are set to enter the race for RB Leipzig's 22-year-old France centre-back Castello Lukeba, who is also of interest to Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United* *Nottingham Forest, Newcastle United and Everton are monitoring Marseille's 23-year-old Brazilian forward Luis Henrique* *Barcelona have made Liverpool's 28-year-old Colombia forward Luis Diaz a transfer priority this summer* *Chelsea are targeting French defender Loic Bade from Sevilla in the summer. The Blues are said to be willing to bid 30m euros (£24.9m) for the 24-year-old*