📰 Friday 14 February 2025 *MORNING ZIM NEWS HUB UPDATES* https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaooeG6IXnlmOHM3ET0h *THE HEADLINES* *Mutsvangwa avoids tackling ZANU PF factionalism head-on, claims vocal and unapologetic Geza is being “used”* *Mutsvangwa Unwittingly Praises Blessed Geza As A Trained Military Field Officer Will Mostly Accurate Intelligence* *Diplomacy, Propaganda and Paranoia: The Inside Story of the changes at the CIO* *UK-based investigative unit claims CIO sought to kill Chamisa and have it blamed on Covid-19* *Zimbabwe defiant amid Trump’s onslaught, vows to fill funding void* *Fake alcohol floods Zim markets* *Zimbabwe seeks $950m in new bid to kick-start mining firm* *Zimbabwe Mercantile Exchange (ZMX) set to host landmark A-ACX Annual Conference* *Zimbabwe’s bullion-backed ZiG is missing out on gold’s record run* *Africa’s population growth requires stronger food security measures: AU official* *Over 2,000 Zimbabweans were nabbed trying to skip border into South Africa – authorities say* *‘No police or private escorts outside Presidium’* *Christopher Mutsvangwa accuses veteran lawyer Tendai Biti of pushing for Mnangagwa and his Zanu PF to get in hot soup with President Trump* *Pensioner’s retirement package wiped out after hackers cloned SIM card* *Bank Robbery :Cleared Man Hit With Fresh Charges* *New Estates Act Comes Into Force* *Zimbabwe govt announces subsidized 2025 ZIMSEC exam fees* *Luke-ing the Beast in the Eye: Morgan Tsvangirai in memoriam — The tears shall never dry: Luke Tamborinyoka* *State-assisted burial for B/Bridge crash victims* *European Parliament seeks freeze on EU aid to Rwanda over Congo conflict* *UNICEF accuses armed men in eastern Congo of raping scores of children* *STANDARD SPORT* *Newcastle's Isak keen on Liverpool* *Manchester United are tracking Ipswich Town's 22-year-old English forward Liam Delap* *Despite a spate of injuries Arsenal are unlikely to bolster their striking options by signing a free agent because of the calibre of players available* *Newcastle's Isak and RB Leipzig's Slovenia forward Benjamin Sesko, 21, are among the players Arsenal are planning to move for in the summer* *The agent of Brazil forward Vinicius Jr has told Real Madrid how much the 24-year-old wants in wages to sign a new contact at the La Liga club amid an £830m (1bn euros) offer for a five-year contract in Saudi Arabia* *Bournemouth are yet to open negotiations with manager Andoni Iraola, with the 42-year-old Spaniard set to enter the final year of his contract after the end of the current season* *Former Liverpool and Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago Alcantara is unlikely to be appointed to Barcelona's coaching staff, with members of the club's hierarchy uncertain where the 33-year-old fits into the set-up* *Crystal Palace have placed a £40-50m value on their 27-year-old French forward Jean-Philippe Mateta, who is the subject of interest from Barcelona* *THE DETAILS WITH STANDARD NEWS ZIMBABWE* _*Mutsvangwa avoids tackling ZANU PF factionalism head-on, claims vocal and unapologetic Geza is being “used”*_ AS the Zanu PF internal fissures worsen, party spokesperson, Christopher Mutsvangwa, on Thursday sidestepped the elephant in the room—factionalism. ZANU PF is currently divided, with one faction pushing for the suspension of the 2028 elections to enable President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain in power until 2030, while another believed to be backing Vice President Constantino Chiwenga insists on maintaining the constitutionally stipulated two-term limit. Neither Mnangagwa nor Chiwenga has publicly acknowledged the emerging factions. Addressing the media at the ZANU PF headquarters on Thursday, Mutsvangwa professed ignorance of the simmering tensions within the party. “That question is new to me. I am trying to focus on things which have consequences,” said Mutsvangwa when questioned by the media. - Zanu PF factional war: Police hunt for Geza; say he faces theft, incitement of public violence, insulting President charges - Rival Zanu PF factions clash at Heroes Acre as succession fight intensifies National events have laid bare the fractures within the ruling party, with supporters displaying clear internal divisions. Recently two factions of ZANU PF supporters were heard chanting pro-Mnangagwa and another, pro-Chiwenga songs at Heroes Acre. Another faction of war veterans, led by the outspoken Blessed Geza, has been calling for Mnangagwa to step aside, accusing him of overseeing a corrupt government. Mnangagwa’s term ends in 2028, and he has stated that he will not run for another term, contrary to the sentiments of some of his supporters within ZANU PF. Without mentioning names, Mutsvangwa suggested that Geza was being used to further a certain agenda within the party to unseat Mnangagwa. “I have a lot of angst about the way he is being used by people who have a certain agenda. Comrade Geza, I do not know what other issues might be bothering you, but we, the war veterans, always remember… I wish he would not follow fools who are misleading him. I am deeply concerned about what is happening with him,” said Mutsvangwa. The factional battles within ZANU PF are reminiscent of the internal politics that rocked the revolutionary party, resulting in the ousting of long-time ruler Robert Mugabe, who was replaced by Mnangagwa. _*Mutsvangwa Unwittingly Praises Blessed Geza As A Trained Military Field Officer Will Mostly Accurate Intelligence*_ When Mnangagwa flies back, he’s stepping into a country whose ruling party now casts doubt on him as their leader– In a tell-all press conference, and on the same day the Women’s League’s Secretary suggested in vocalisations that Emmerson Mnangagwa is no longer president of Zimbabwe, ZANU PF Information Secretary Christopher Mutsvangwa used his gig to endorse the party’s rebellious Central Committee member Blessed Geza, as a trained military field officer possessing predominantly accurate intelligence. The development marks Day 2 following a ZimEye exclusive broadcast that revealed Geza and his team are legitimate war veterans who in June 2023 revived the Liberators Platform. Said Mutsvangwa, “What I can say is that some of intelligence which is being given is definitely wrong. He mentioned the other day that my son was in he was incarcerated by the President. It’s not true. I told you. I had an interview with you today. I know who was behind the incarceration of my son in a false incarceration in May last year. “And I know why, why, the reasons why it was being done, the political reasons why it was being done, the President had nothing to do with it, and he had to come back and undo that thing, but undo it in a manner which did not arouse, you know, the anxieties that you may be interfering with the judiciary. So it had to be a long, drawn out affair. But me, my wife, who is the Minister Of Women Affairs, we know that the President had nothing to do with it. So bombshell is wrong. Comrade Bombshell (war name for Blessed Geza) is wrong to try to accuse the president. “It’s not true. Rather, the people who are telling him to go on televisions are the ones who are behind the persecution of my son. So I must say I’m surprised – For a field combat officer, he normally has got very good intelligence, because he wouldn’t have survived the war as a guerilla fighter if his intelligence was fraught. I don’t know why he’s being misled by being given chicken feed. It’s in intelligence.; “What he is being given is called chicken feed that my son was incarcerated by the President and that I should not have a relationship with the president because he incarcerated my son. It’s not true. I want to put it on record. You.“ Meanwhile, the Womens League secretary Mabel Chinomona appeared in an official ZANU PF video clip during the day in which he referred to Mnangagwa as a former president. Mabel Chinomona who is President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s ex girlfriend, suggested he is no more president, as she said: “Tine, 10 provinces as I remember it, yakataura kuti inoda kuti vaMnangagwa vawedzere hutongi hwavo, kusvika 2030, meaning from 2028, pawedzerwe two years. Sei ma provinces ese, vakaona? Vanogutsikana nekutungamira kwava Mnangagwa, nema programs, nema projects, nezvese zvavakasimudza mukati menyika panguva yavo yavaitungamira. ENGLISH: We have, as I remember it, 10 provinces who said they want Mnangagwa to extend his rule until 2030, meaning from 2028, an additional two years.Did all the provinces agree? The fact is they are satisfied with Mnangagwa’s leadership, the programs, the projects, and everything he developed in the country during the time he was in office.” Meanwhile, Geza is on record announcing that Mnangagwa is not at all a fighter but a nationalist who has been tricking the masses since 1977, and below is how the Zvishavane man has been deceiving ZANU PF since 1977. _*Diplomacy, Propaganda and Paranoia: The Inside Story of the changes at the CIO*_ The inside story of how Isaac Moyo was appointed and then removed from the CIO and why Zimbabwe's Intelligence has a new boss and is now taking on a new path. It was at a meeting discussing all possible methods to ensure an Emmerson Mnangagwa (ED) presidency would not only happen but be sustained, back in 2011, that the CIO was flagged as a potential problem. The roundtable discussion was chaired by the current Minister of Energy and Power Development, July Moyo, and attended by party heavyweights, including the late Senator Shuvai Mahofa, and other key figures like Jorum Gumbo, Special Advisor to the President and responsible for Monitoring the Implementation of Government Programmes. The CIO was then flagged as a potential banana skin if Robert Mugabe, who had promised to pick Mnangagwa as his successor, changed his mind. Mugabe’s change of mind was seen as a real possibility. After all, he had moved from wanting Joyce Mujuru to succeed him to Mnangagwa, all based on shady intelligence reports that included claims Mujuru slaughtered black chickens halaal style. The reports, seen by Dug Up, are dated March 2010 and delivered during ‘The president’s weekly brief’. In them, Mujuru was accused bizarrely of mixing the ‘dead’ chicken blood with her menstrual fluids and then performing rituals meant to hasten Mugabe’s natural progression in life. This high-level delegation did not have the foresight to imagine a coup being a possibility nor did they have the seniority to hold any discussions with military personnel. Senior and high profile as they were, any collaboration with the army was off the table and not a subject of discussion. The structure and make-up of the CIO is what was discussed. Fearful of the reach of the CIO, July Moyo was tasked with delivering the group’s resolutions and findings to ED in a private meeting. Although he doesn’t quite remember the date, July Moyo’s driver at the time told Dug Up, that the following day, ED’s entourage was forced to do a U-turn in Kadoma and return to ED’s farm to hear July Moyo’s report. ED had been in Kwekwe that weekend, but had left earlier than planned – or July Moyo had been late to arrive. When July Moyo realised ED had left, he called him or his number – ED returned and the minutes were delivered. The meeting, held at July Moyo’s homestead in Kwekwe, flagged two important things. 1, the CIO could be weaponised against Mnangagwa in the same way as it had against Mujuru. 2, should ED become president, by whatever route, the CIO needed to be changed, from top to bottom. Understand the CIO and the reasons why it was flagged Unlike most intelligence services worldwide, Zimbabwe’s Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) operates differently. While organisations like the CIA in America, Mossad in Israel, or even the equally infamous NIS in Kenya adopt a ‘national security’ interest, the CIO is a different animal altogether. Potential recruits spend months at the CIO Training School (TS) in Homestead, Msasa Park. There, in uncertain terms, they are told that the mandate of the CIO and any recruit’s immediate and everyday concern should be to “break or bend the law in presidential interests”. Under Mugabe, the CIO was loaded with extremely loyal appointees and trainees. It is the one branch of the security apparatus that ED did not have on his side. Neither did he attempt to sway them. Events accelerated and in 2017 armed soldiers, mostly from the infantry brigade out of Inkom Barracks were deployed to the streets. Mugabe was removed and the rest is common knowledge. The CIOs were among the first targets of the army. Their headquarters were besieged and their agents were targeted. The initial reasoning, according to the late SB Moyo was that the CIO, like the ZRPs paramilitary wing, the Presidential Guard and the Airforce were flagged as high-risk colleagues who could try to counter-deploy and attack the infantry brigade which had arrested the president and by all intents orchestrated a coup. CIO agents who were not at Chaminuka Building (The Headquarters) or Charter House a few streets down, hid their weapons and went underground. On the first night of the coup, soldiers targeted known CIO vehicles – at the time the very famous Datsun vehicles that low-level operatives drove. So the agents abandoned these and went into hiding. The diplomat Isaac Moyo (DG) had been Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to South Africa, for a while, before the military intervention. He was a close ally of ED and enjoyed a personal relationship with him. When ED was Vice President, Moyo arranged for him to visit South Africa and meet business leaders and potential investors. Moyo garnered support for ED, especially from white Rhodesians and wealthy white South Africans, seen as having great sway with Washington and London. The DG also played a critical role in ensuring EDs brand was seen as ‘business friendly’ long before the Zimbabwe is Open for Business line that characterised the current government in its early days. When it became clear that ED was going to be the next president, Moyo was earmarked as the new Director General of the CIO – hence we refer to him as DG – and also to avoid confusion with Moyo July. Moyo’s experience was in foreign affairs and diplomacy. He was a career diplomat who had a part in several foreign missions including as a junior officer in Addis. He was largely credited with fixing affairs at the Zimbabwean Embassy in Pretoria and the Zimbabwean Consulate. Both were seen as nearly useless before Isaac Moyo. Similarly, Isaac was a different kind of ambassador. He interacted with fierce critics of Zanu PF and created powerful relationships even with political opponents. This allowed him to garner useful intelligence, which Harare had not been able to get using threats and violence. Even Mugabe was impressed and in a visit in 2016 heaped praise on Isaac’s efficiency. Via DG, Zimbabweans in exile were pretty much disarmed. Protests against the government – like the vigils often seen in London stopped. Isaac opened the door to the most hostile opposition figures, hosted them for lunch, allowed them to vent, and leveraged these relationships to stop ‘hostility’ towards the government in Harare. Of course, diplomats have to be competent in intelligence. Foreign affairs departments are spooks. So are foreign missions. But in the Zimbabwean context, there is a slight difference. CIOs are rarely referred to as agents, but more as operatives – due to the nature of their activities. The CIO itself (remember the mandate) sets out to break and bend the law to benefit the presidency. But the problem in 2017 was that all those operatives and their bosses knew how to break the law for Mugabe and disliked ED. So enter the diplomat – tasked with reforming the CIO. In his early days, Isaac, who had been seen as a good administrator and manager set out to reform the CIO. Under Mugabe, the organisation was feared and rogue. Spooks are meant to be covert. CIOs were very overt. They ran around town flashing IDs and guns while intimidating anyone and everyone. Isaac was tasked with recreating what he had done with the foreign mission in Pretoria. He was tasked with creating a new CIO. One that was covert and one that could penetrate beyond ‘enemy lines’. Beyond ‘enemy lines’ As Director General Moyo oversaw lots of changes at the CIO. He slowly removed Mugabe’s appointees and pushed a method of ‘intelligence’ that relied on covert surveillance and diplomacy. Under Moyo, the CIO all but ensured extremely vocal politicians from the opposition were turned. Intimidation tactics and violence were shunned, including the launch of a new reporting protocol in 2019 that required officers to justify any use of force on civilians. A separate protocol was introduced that made it a dismissable offence to utilise one’s credentials or status to gain an advantage in a non-state matter. Officers were also now required to surrender their IDs when leaving the office – this to prevent using the powers that come with the ID to intimidate civilians or get favours. As an administrator, DG preferred a devolved method of leadership. The protocol before Isaac came in was simple. If a deputy or any officer uncovered something important he would take it to the boss and the boss would take it to the President or to the Joint Operations Command Security briefs held on Mondays. This was seen as a way to protect the head of the CIO. If deputies outperformed their boss and the President saw this – the head of the CIO would lose his job. It also meant juniors could not send rogue reports to the President. That was the line. Once Isaac came in, he changed this – much to the annoyance of his assistants. Under Isaac Moyo, his deputies were given an open line to the President. And if they had a project they wanted to do, and Isaac approved it, he allowed them to run it. For instance, his deputy Brig. General (Rtd)Walter Tapfumaneyi, proposed running an operation called FAZ. Moyo supported it, but as Tapfumaneyi was an operative, Moyo agreed to let him lead it and report directly to the President. Similarly, Dr. Gatsha Mazithulela, Deputy Director-General (Special Services) ran several operations and Moyo insisted that these be reported directly to the President. You are not an operative But, whilst Moyo’s approach was seen as refreshing and new, problems soon emerged. Isaac Moyo is and was not an operative. He was a diplomat, competent in the art of intelligence, but leading an organisation that employed thousands of operatives. This became a problem very quickly. The open lines created by Moyo, between his juniors and deputies meant ED could receive a report that slams Moyo – and he would never know. One such report, seen by Dug Up, submitted to the President in July 2023 warned ED that Moyo could cost him the election. The powering statement was that Moyo had told operatives to be covert but avoid meddling in the election directly, quoting a line that ED had told him during a private visit that – “Shefu vakati musabirira. Hanzi munhu wangu ndoda kumurova zviri smart”. (The President said don’t rig the election. I want to defeat my opponent in a clean manner). This alarmed Moyo’s deputies and other operatives, who agreed that ED had said those exact words, as noted by the secretary who attended the visit, but, claimed in the report that it was irresponsible as it meant the CIO was being asked to sit back and watch the President potentially lead himself to a loss. There were other criticisms too. As early as 2020, ED received reports that claimed Moyo was a nice but ineffective DG. One such report, dated February 15, 2021, claimed Moyo had turned down two projects/ operations that suggested using the COVID-19 pandemic as a smokescreen to kill opposition candidates including Nelson Chamisa. Dug Up understands the proposal came from the operative division of the CIO and suggested that the elimination of opposition actors could be hidden behind the pandemic. The DG, Isaac Moyo refused to authorise the operations. His juniors wrote a report saying he was too nice to lead the CIO. Moyo found out and in a heated internal JOC meeting blasted his juniors. Provincial directors who sat in that meeting told Dug Up it was explosive and Isaac’s deputies flat out told him “You are not an Operative”. These disagreements would become the staple. Isaac wanted to continue doing things his way. But, the spooks he led were increasingly frustrated. One spook, who cannot be named to protect his job, told Dug Up that they felt like their hands were tied behind their back. “We couldn’t do anything. We had to justify any use of force. We couldn’t carry weapons. It felt exactly like the coup. Sometimes you could see something serious but could not do anything because if your hunch was wrong you would lose your job”. It’s time to quit As tensions grew, Moyo offered to resign in 2022 and let those “who are better placed take over.” At the time there had been reports that Moyo was very close to losing his job. His deputy Tapfumaneyi, who ran FAZ was doing a stellar job to the point of outshining Moyo. Those close to Moyo say he didn’t mind as it was he who preferred a leadership style that allowed subordinates the chance to shine. It isn’t clear what transpired in 2022, but Dug Up understands, that when Moyo was installed as the DG, the initial plan was for him to reform the CIO and then leave. The plan of action for that was about 5 years. But, in conversations with ED, there was an understanding that he needed to continue until he had seen the administrative reforms through – and that once the CIO was a professional force once more, Moyo could then leave. Tensions continued, however, and especially during the 2023 elections where FAZ pretty much ran as a parallel structure to the CIO. Within the CIO this caused divisions. FAZ was incredibly well-resourced, while CIO officers were struggling to get fuel allowances to travel and do leg work. FAZ agents drove luxury vehicles and threw expensive parties where strippers and Moet were the order of the day. Yet, CIO officers often survived on $2 meals. Morale tanked. After the elections, the CIO cut funding to FAZ. But the damage appeared to have been done. In a private discussion, the President and Isaac Moyo discussed a change. Isaac conceded it was time to move on and supported the decision. A new path…. In January this year, ED pulled the plug. Dr Fulton Mangwanya was installed as the new boss of the intelligence services. When he was installed, Dug Up understands there was serious confusion. He was announced in a letter that did not mention the fate of Isaac Moyo. The letter also referred to the President’s Department and not the President’s Office – leading to questions about whether this would be a parallel structure. Isaac himself had not been served with termination paperwork. So he continued reporting to work at the Chaminuka building. Mangwanya also did not immediately go there and there was limbo about what was happening. A handover-takeover was not arranged either and it only happened after Mnangagwa and Moyo spoke directly and made private arrangements. This is thought to have happened much closer to a month after the announcement. But, despite the confusion, the appointment is a new path and a new chapter in the CIO. DG Mangwanya has an extensive history within the intelligence circles and is largely seen as a very good professional man. While working as a spook, he was stationed in Kwekwe where he was OIC and developed a close relationship with ED. He later became OIC for Harare Central Police Station – CIO department. Later he became the head commander at the training school, before becoming the OIC Ferrets. When he was sent to lead the Parks and Wildlife workers had not received their salaries for 7 months. Within 2 months, those familiar with the situation say this had been resolved. Mangwanya was appointed largely because he is an operative – the one thing that Isaac was not. Throughout Isaac’s time as boss, he struggled to get the respect of ordinary officers who secretly mocked him as a “diplomat”. Some of the decisions, like allowing Tapfumaneyi to pull resources to FAZ caused morale to plummet. Mangwanya however, has directly or indirectly trained most of the the ordinary officers in the CIO. According to a clearance report endorsing Mangwanya, seen by Dug Up, the new DG was seen as being a good administrator like Moyo, but, ultimately also having the operative capacity to run the organisation in a way that keeps morale high. A source, close to the presidency, who like all sources in this story, cannot be named, told Dug Up that this signified the completion of the reform of the CIO from Mugabe’s machine to ED’s machine, and that the new DG had a “CV that speaks for itself”. “He will take the CIO on this new path”, he added. Reporting for this story was done by Maynard Manyowa… _*UK-based investigative unit claims CIO sought to kill Chamisa and have it blamed on Covid-19*_ UNITED Kingdom investigative unit Dug Up has made sensational claims that Zimbabwe’s much-feared Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) considered eliminating opposition leader Nelson Chamisa in 2020, then have it blamed on Covid-19. Chamisa, who was the front-runner to win Zimbabwe’s 2023 presidential elections, had been identified by CIO operatives as the main challenge to President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s second term in office. Dug Up’s article which seeks to explain how former CIO director general (DG) Isaac Moyo lost his job reveals intricate details about the goings on at the state security agency, including a plot to have him fired as way back as 2020, just over two years after his appointment by Mnangagwa. Moyo, reads the investigative piece, was viewed more as a diplomat rather than an operative. His juniors are said to have openly told Mnangagwa that having him as head of the CIO would cost him his presidency and advised that he be relieved of all duties. For refusing to kill Chamisa and other ‘problematic’ elements within Zimbabwe’s politics, Moyo was described as being ‘too nice to lead the CIO.’ “As early as 2020, Mnangagwa received reports that claimed Moyo was a nice but ineffective DG. One such report, dated February 15, 2021, claimed Moyo had turned down two projects/operations that suggested using the Covid-19 pandemic as a smokescreen to kill opposition candidates including Nelson Chamisa. “Dug Up understands the proposal came from the operative division of the CIO and suggested that the elimination of opposition actors could be hidden behind the pandemic. “The DG refused to authorise the operations. His juniors wrote a report saying he was too nice to lead the CIO. “Moyo found out and in a heated internal JOC meeting blasted his juniors. Provincial directors who sat in that meeting told Dug Up it was explosive and Isaac’s deputies flat out told him “You are not an Operative.” Then leading the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) Chamisa survived numerous attempts on his life towards the 2023 elections. Moyo, who was eventually replaced by Fulton Mangwanya earlier this year, is reported to have unsuccessfully sought an exit in 2022 as confrontations and questions around his modus operandi from his juniors continued. Amongst many reforms Moyo brought to the CIO, operatives reportedly did not take kindly to him demanding that they surrender their identity cards before knocking off to reduce cases of abuse. Moyo, according to the article, also demanded reports for any case of excess force and barred the carrying of weapons. _*Zimbabwe defiant amid Trump’s onslaught, vows to fill funding void*_ THE government has stopped short of telling the United States of America to go hang following the termination of financial aid to African countries. Zimbabwe is among the African nations affected by the Executive Order signed by U.S. President Donald Trump, which halts aid to Africa. Financial aid had previously alleviated the country’s burden in tackling HIV and AIDS through the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Responding to questions in the National Assembly recently, Deputy Minister of Health Sleiman Kwidini stated that the government would cover the gaps left by the withdrawal of U.S. funding. “Yes, there might indeed be an impact from the withdrawal of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) from the World Health Organisation (WHO). However, what I want the Honourable Member to be aware of is the policy. When a policy is formulated, it is not wholly dependent on other stakeholders with whom we may collaborate to improve the livelihoods of our people. “Nevertheless, the issue is now before the Ministry and the Government at large because we had an agreement and collaboration with these stakeholders, who have now withdrawn their support. “It is now the mandate of the Ministry and the Government to ensure that these programmes, which were previously supported by external stakeholders, are now fully managed by the Ministry so that we can cover the gap left by the withdrawal of funding,” said Kwidini. - U.S funding cuts threaten HIV prevention efforts in Zimbabwe as truck-stop clinics suspend operations; Parliament urges govt to look for alternative support model - Africa knew Trump’s America First pledge meant it might be last. Then came the freeze on aid An estimated 1.2 million Zimbabweans are benefiting from PEPFAR, with 1,600 public hospitals and clinics having received technical support from the U.S. government. Last year, Zimbabwe achieved the 95-95-95 goals in the fight against HIV/AIDS, but there are concerns that this progress might be derailed if the government fails to find a solution to fill the gap left by the withdrawal of U.S. support. Kwidini said a clear plan is being formulated to allocate funds accordingly. “In terms of HIV and AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis, these were originally Government programmes. We then had stakeholders who came in to fund those programmes. As we speak, our technocrats are working to ensure that we cover the gap left by these programme implementers, as they were supporting our national policies. “However, as policymakers, and as I mentioned earlier, the Ministry’s technocrats are currently exploring the best ways to develop solutions, particularly in budgeting and human capital, which have been affected by the withdrawal of these funds. Essentially, the policy already exists, but what has been withdrawn is the support we were receiving from the funders,” he said. _*Fake alcohol floods Zim markets*_ Zimbabwe is grappling with a growing crisis that poses a severe threat to public health. The widespread production and sale of counterfeit alcohol have become a major concern, endangering countless lives across the country. These illegal beverages, often disguised as legitimate brands like whisky, gin, and vodka, are manufactured in unregulated and secretive locations using hazardous chemicals. The situation is particularly dire in urban areas such as Harare, where an increasing number of people are turning to these illicit drinks due to their low cost. However, the hidden danger within these counterfeit products far outweighs any financial savings. Many of these drinks contain methanol, a highly toxic substance that can cause serious health complications. Even small amounts of methanol consumption can lead to severe illness, including vision impairment, organ failure, and, in the worst cases, death. Reports from health officials indicate a disturbing surge in cases of poisoning linked to fake alcohol. Victims have exhibited alarming symptoms such as intense headaches, dizziness, nausea, and blurred vision. Tragically, some cases have resulted in fatalities, highlighting the urgent need for intervention. The increasing number of alcohol-related medical emergencies has placed immense strain on Zimbabwe’s healthcare system, with hospitals struggling to manage the influx of patients affected by these toxic beverages. In response, the Zimbabwe Republic Police has intensified efforts to crack down on the illegal production and distribution of counterfeit alcohol. Law enforcement officials have been raiding suspected manufacturing sites, shutting down illegal operations, and arresting those involved in this dangerous trade. However, illicit manufacturers continue to adapt, operating in concealed locations such as backyards, abandoned buildings, and makeshift workshops. This ongoing struggle between authorities and counterfeit producers has made it difficult to completely eliminate the threat. Health experts and advocacy groups are calling for urgent public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the dangers of consuming fake alcohol. Both adults and young people are at significant risk, with many unaware of the life-threatening consequences. Schools, parents, and community leaders are being urged to warn young people about the devastating effects of consuming unregulated alcoholic beverages. The Zimbabwean government is also stepping up efforts to combat the crisis through stricter regulations and enhanced enforcement measures. However, the fight against counterfeit alcohol requires collective action. The public must remain vigilant, report suspicious activity, and avoid purchasing alcohol from unreliable sources. Raising awareness and strengthening enforcement efforts will be critical in preventing further loss of life and ensuring the safety of communities across Zimbabwe. _*Zimbabwe seeks $950m in new bid to kick-start mining firm*_ Zimbabwe’s state miner is planning a fresh bid to kick-start a range of projects a year after the government took full control of the company. Kuvimba Mining House, under new Chief Executive Officer Trevor Barnard, is looking to development banks, mining companies and traders to raise $950 million to develop lithium, platinum and gold assets, he said in an interview. “Access to all the large development banks, to all the funding, to all the major traders has just opened up,” said Barnard, without identifying the potential financiers. The change in the ownership structure has “been really a very good move for Kuvimba.” Previous attempts to raise funding were hindered because of speculation over the undisclosed identity of private investors who held about a third of the company. Earlier attempts to hold an initial public offering and form a venture with Russian investors were abandoned. Kuvimba’s main assets were formerly held by companies tied to Kudakwashe Tagwirei, a politically connected businessman, Bloomberg reported in 2021. Tagwirei, a one-time adviser to Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has been sanctioned for alleged corruption by the US and the UK. Kuvimba has always denied that he ever held a stake in the company. The government has discussed handing some of Kuvimba’s output to Trafigura Group to repay an outstanding fuel debt, Bloomberg reported in 2022. More than half of the amount the company plans to raise will go toward a building an underground platinum mine at the long-delayed Darwendale project, according to Barnard, who took up his post in December. A lithium project the company estimates will cost as much as $275 million may be quicker to develop, he said. The company has agreed a lithium joint venture with Chinese mining firms, and will finalise the deal by March before proceeding to build the first phase of the project known as Sandawana. It will take about 15 months after signing to start production that will ultimately reach 500 000 tons of lithium concentrate per annum, Barnard said. The Chinese partners will finance the project and transfer it back to Kuvimba once the loan is repaid, a process he estimated would take less than five years. Kuvimba also plans to develop a second area at Sandawana. Barnard said the company has already received interest from potential investors, including Cluff Africa Ltd. and a major European commodity trader that he declined to name. Other Chinese investors are also keen, he said, adding Kuvimba may sign a deal within six to 12 months. Cluff didn’t immediately respond to an emailed request for comment. At the Darwendale platinum deposit, the company initially plans to develop a smaller open-pit mine this year that will cost about $50 million to dig. It will pay another mining company to process that ore, according to Barnard. Kuvimba is in talks with development banks for loans to finance the bigger, underground project and processing facilities, he said, without giving more detail. The targeted start date is within three years. Zimbabwe holds the world’s second-biggest platinum reserves after South Africa and is Africa’s biggest lithium producer. Kuvimba is now 70%-owned by the state sovereign wealth fund known as Mutapa Investment Fund, with entities held by the finance ministry, including state pension funds, power utilities and a deposit insurance fund, holding the rest, Barnard said. _*Zimbabwe Mercantile Exchange (ZMX) set to host landmark A-ACX Annual Conference*_ ZIMBABWE Mercantile Exchange (ZMX) is set to host the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Association of African Commodity Exchanges (A-ACX) annual conference in March. Running from 26 to 27 March 2025 at the Elephant Hills Hotel in Victoria Falls, the conference will feature high-level continental and global speakers and panellists ranging from commodities exchanges, financial and logistics services providers, government officials and many others in the commodities value chains. “The decision to select Zimbabwe for this momentous event underscores the country’s growing influence in the continental commodities market and its commitment to the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),” said ZMX. The A-ACX, an alliance of commodity exchanges across Africa, was established to foster collaboration and alignment with AfCFTA’s broader goals of catalysing economic growth and promoting trade among African nations. The association aims to play a pivotal role in advancing intra-African trade in commodities and related services, providing a platform for innovation, market development, and regional economic integration. The theme of the upcoming conference, “Scaling Intra-African Trade: Leveraging Commodity Exchanges for Economic Resilience and Growth,” reflects the shared vision of enhancing Africa’s trade ecosystem. The event is set to address critical issues, such as harmonising trade practices across African markets, building pan-African supply chains, promoting investment in the continent’s abundant resources, and advocating for policy reforms to unlock the potential of regional trade. “Zimbabwe, through the ZMX, has been a key contributor to the A-ACX’s initiatives. As the host nation, Zimbabwe is tasked with managing a comprehensive agenda for the conference, which will bring together key stakeholders, including commodity exchange leaders, policymakers, and international organisations. The conference will feature a diverse array of sessions, discussions, and networking opportunities designed to share knowledge, build capacity, and explore innovative strategies for market development,” said the organisation. Hosting the A-ACX Annual Conference represents a significant milestone for Zimbabwe, offering numerous benefits. Zimbabwe will showcase its contributions to the continent’s commodities market, highlighting its innovative frameworks and market development strategies. It is also expected to attract investments in commodities and natural resources, sectors vital to Zimbabwe’s economy. The ZMX, which has been at the forefront of transforming Zimbabwe’s commodities market, will gain a platform to highlight its innovative frameworks and inspire other African nations. The conference will also provide a boost to Zimbabwe’s tourism and hospitality sectors, welcoming delegates from across the continent. _*Zimbabwe’s bullion-backed ZiG is missing out on gold’s record run*_ Zimbabwe’s bullion-backed currency is missing out on an impressive gold rally, because of a liquidity squeeze that’s choking the economy and difficulties in exchanging the unit for dollars. Since the ZiG, short for Zimbabwe Gold, started trading on April 8 the gold price has rallied 24% to a record high, while the local currency has weakened 95% to the dollar. “No rationale market player is really looking at the gold price, but money supply,” said Shelton Sibanda, the chief investment officer at Imara Asset Management, the nation’s oldest brokerage, which manages $100 million. “We have seen money supply tightened in the past few months and that really is what has sway on the local currency.” The central bank has curtailed money supply and kept the key interest rate at 35% since devaluing the ZiG by 43% in September to help it stabilize. It was launched last year to supersede the dollar in domestic transactions after previous attempts to stand up a local currency failed. Tight monetary policy has also negatively impacted stocks. Governor John Mushayavanhu said last week the central bank’s tight policy stance “comes with inevitable liquidity squeeze, necessary to instill market discipline and curtail disruptive speculative behavior in the economy.” Difficulties in being able to exchange ZiGs for dollars have also excluded it from gold’s gains by casting doubt over the local currency’s viability, Sibanda said. It also points to the southern African nation “not having enough hard currency foreign reserves to support a stable, freely convertible currency,” said Hasnain Malik, an emerging markets strategist at Tellimer in Dubai. The only real benefit it’s getting from bullion’s record run is in the value of the country’s gold reserves, said Sibanda. The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s stockpiles have risen to 2.67 tons from 1.5 tons at the ZiG’s debut. _*Africa’s population growth requires stronger food security measures: AU official*_ With Africa’s population expected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050, the continent has to enhance its sustainable food production and processing capabilities to ensure food security, a senior African Union (AU) official has said. Josefa Sacko, AU commissioner for agriculture, rural development, blue economy and sustainable environment, made the call on Thursday while addressing the media on the sidelines of the ongoing 38th AU Summit, which is taking place from Feb. 12 to 16 at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital. Noting the complex impact of global and regional shocks, ranging from public health challenges and pandemics to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine and other geopolitical uncertainties, Sacko said Africa has to strengthen its food production and processing systems. She added that these challenges have been further exacerbated by rising inflation, making food security an even more critical issue. She said that the 10-year Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Program strategy and action plan for 2026-2035, adopted earlier this year at the AU Extraordinary Summit in Kampala, Uganda’s capital, serves as a blueprint for advancing agricultural development and food systems across the continent. _*Over 2,000 Zimbabweans were nabbed trying to skip border into South Africa – authorities say*_ OVER 2,000 Zimbabweans were nabbed trying to illegally cross into South Africa around the porous Beitbridge Border Post before, during and after the recent festive season, South African authorities have said. With millions of Zimbabweans working illegally in the more prosperous neighbouring country, tens of thousands are said to cross the border headed back home for Christmas and New Year’s holidays before trekking back. Authorities at South Africa’s Border Management Authority (BMA) credited the use of new technologies at their disposal such as drones, body cameras and continued operations by the country’s military for the arrest of 2,188 Zimbabwean border jumpers. “The piloting of drones and body cameras by BMA during the festive season has demonstrated the power of digital transformation,” BMA spokesperson Mmnmme Mogotsi told South Africa’s SABC News. “This has made a significant impact with more than 58,000 persons (including 2,188 around Beitbridge Border Post, detected and apprehended attempting to enter South Africa illegally.” Zimbabweans are among many other illegals in South Africa blamed for its high crime rate and skyrocketing unemployment. A worsening economy has seen millions crossing the Beitbridge border to seek menial work in factories, farms, restaurants and mines. “What we are requesting is that government avails a lot of resources to BMA, because they have managed such a good job with so little at their disposal,” said a Border Watch member Jerry Mpofu. _*’No police or private escorts outside Presidium’*_ The police are barred from providing escort vehicles for private functions such as weddings, church gatherings, birthday parties and private motorcades using beacon lights and sirens are banned with police motorcades reserved for the Presidium, In a statement, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said only the Presidium will be provided with motorised escorts or a State motorcade. “The Zimbabwe Republic Police wishes to clarify the clear position on the use and provision of motorised escorts in the country. In terms of the country’s laws only the State Presidium will be provided with motorised escorts or a State motorcade. “In this regard, the public should take note that no law or provision allows the Zimbabwe Republic Police to offer or provide motorised escorts for various requests such as weddings, church gatherings, birthday parties, or other private functions. “In the same vein, the public is accordingly informed that the law does not allow the use of any private or personal motorcade of any form on the country’s roads whether with beacon lights or sounding any form of siren. The law will take its course for those found on the wrong side of the law,” he said. Motorists had to observe the movements of the state motorcade whenever escort vehicles are coming as police control traffic on the roads. The law made it clear that private vehicles could not be allowed to look or sound like police vehicles. “The Zimbabwe Republic Police reminds motorists that according to Statutory Instrument 129 of 2015 Road Traffic (Construction, Equipment and Use) Regulations the use of blue lights or beacons is the preserve of the Zimbabwe Republic Police only. In this regard, any motorist found with a vehicle fitted with blue lights or beacons will be dealt with in line with the country’s laws. State Media _*Christopher Mutsvangwa accuses veteran lawyer Tendai Biti of pushing for Mnangagwa and his Zanu PF to get in hot soup with President Trump*_ Zanu-PF spokesman Christopher Mutsvangwa has launched a scathing attack on former Finance Minister Tendai Biti, accusing him of colluding with American diplomats in South Africa to “whip up emotions about title deeds and land in Zimbabwe” in a bid to attract the attention of former U.S. President Donald Trump. Speaking at a press conference today, Mutsvangwa alleged that Biti’s actions were part of a broader scheme to undermine Zimbabwe’s land reform programme and its political leadership. The accusations come amidst a heated debate surrounding the government’s plan to issue title deeds to farm owners, a move that Biti has vehemently criticised as a reversal of the land reform programme. Biti, a prominent lawyer and former Citizens Coalition for Change vice-president, has dismissed the government’s plan as legally flawed, arguing that all title deeds on agricultural land were cancelled when the government gazetted and acquired the land. “All title deeds on agricultural land were cancelled. So (President Emmerson) Mnangagwa cannot give away as he was purported to do on December 3 title deeds on former white man’s land, on agricultural land, because those title deeds do not exist at all. This man always makes legal blunders, consistently,” he said during an online programme at the weekend. “So, Mr Mnangagwa is reversing the land reform programme. What will happen is that in 10 years’ time, cartels will be owning this land. In 50 years’ time, we are back to square zero. “We now have another land fight, this time against the cartels, black cartels. The same cartels you see in fuel, in service stations, will now be owning the land.” Agriculture, Lands, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development ministry permanent secretary Obert Jiri has defended the title deed programme, stating that it is a significant step towards securing land ownership for farmers and promoting economic growth, food security, and social stability. In a statement published in the State media, Jiri said the new title would give landowners the option to secure financing for their agricultural activities. “The title will potentially allow capital markets to improve their participation in agricultural value chains. Third, the title will allow for official farm subdivisions to cater for family inheritance. “Fourth, the title will create a new land market, creating opportunities for land transfers to qualifying Zimbabweans. “Fifth, the title provides an exit strategy for farmers who opt out of farming and will recover their investment. These options are not fully addressed by the current lease and permit regime,” he said. _*Bank Robbery :Cleared Man Hit With Fresh Charges*_ After being acquitted last year of participating in the armed robbery of US$2,7 million of ZB Bank cash in 2021, Dennis Madondo (33) from Murehwa is now on trial for money laundering, using proceeds from criminal activities to purchase a luxury vehicle and being in possession of large sums of cash. The trial, which began yesterday before regional magistrate Mr Taurai Manuwere, is being prosecuted by Mr Ngoni Kaseke. Mr Kaseke alleges that between January 5 and January 13, 2021, Madondo bought a silver Mercedes Benz E320 for US$9 000 and was found in possession of US$62 500 in cash. Authorities claim he knew or should have suspected that the funds were linked to criminal activities and accuse him of attempting to conceal their illicit origins. Madondo, through his lawyer, strongly denied the charges, arguing that they are a rehash of the armed robbery case for which he was previously acquitted. Herald _*New Estates Act Comes Into Force*_ The new Administration of Estates Act which removes the Master of the High Court from the Judicial Services Commission and affects the estates of those who die without a will, comes into operation on February 24, the date fixed by President Mnangagwa yesterday. The law, which was passed by Parliament changes the procedures when a person dies without naming an executor in their will or without having a will in the first place. Under the old law, the Master of High Court after consulting the heirs laid down in general law would appoint an executor; the new law now requires this to be confirmed by a judge of the High Court. Most people who leave a will name their executor in the will and their wish is almost always confirmed automatically. The problem arises when there is no will, no executor named, or the named person is dead or missing or clearly unsuitable. The coming into effect of the law was announced in a Statutory Instrument of a Government Gazette. In terms of the law, the Master should not unilaterally remove an executor of an estate. This is meant to enhance protection of widows, widowers and orphans during disputes over deceased estates. The Master of the High Court will have to approach the High Court and argue his or her case before appointing or removing any executor of a deceased estate and will have to seek the approval of the Guardians Fund in making investments of funds falling under the office. The law seeks to provide for better and autonomous administration of the Office of the Master of the High Court to enable it to serve the people efficiently and in a decentralised manner through, among other things, removing it from the Judicial Service Commission. Clause 4 of the Act provides that the appointment of an executor or executors of a deceased estate by the Master, where this is not laid down in a will, must be approved by the High Court after notifying everyone with a legitimate interest in the estate, should there be no resolution among stakeholders on who should become an executor. Sometimes the family can unanimously agree, and again that can be confirmed. But problems can arise where there is no executor laid down in a will, and where there is a family disagreement. Clause 9 deals with the removal of an executor, tutor or curator from office, where the Master should apply to the High Court after notifying every person with an interest in the estate for a determination. Clause 10 provides that an executor, with the concurrence of the Master and other interested parties, should approach the High Court before a property is disposed of or sold, particularly if the sale is not through an auction. The Clause reads as follows: “The executor produces to the Master, an affidavit, jointly sworn by all the persons having an interest in an estate, supporting the application of the executor to sell specified property of the estate, being property in respect of which the will of the deceased contains no provision to the contrary, other than by public auction and the Master is of the opinion that no good grounds exist for not granting the application.” During debate on the law, Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, who was steering it said the involvement of everyone, including the High Court, will help deal with connivance. There is also a clause which provides that the Master of the High Court must get approval from the board before making any investment of funds he is administering, such as the Guardian Fund, meant to help children particularly orphans. Herald _*Zimbabwe govt announces subsidized 2025 ZIMSEC exam fees*_ The Government of Zimbabwe has revealed the 2025 Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) examination fees for both Ordinary Level (O-Level) and Advanced Level (A-Level) candidates, with significant subsidies granted to students in public schools. The move aims to ease the financial burden on families and improve access to education. In a bid to reduce costs for public school students, the Government will provide a 55% subsidy on examination fees for candidates in public, local authority, and mission schools. As a result, students in these schools will pay just USD 11 per O-Level subject and USD 22 per A-Level subject. However, candidates from private schools, private colleges, and those sitting as private candidates in public schools will be required to pay the full examination fees. “Following the approval of the 2025 Ordinary and Advanced Level examination fees, please be advised that the Government will be subsidizing the 2025 Ordinary and Advanced Level examination fees for candidates in public schools, Local Authority Schools, and Mission Schools. All candidates in private schools and colleges, including private candidates in public schools, will pay the full cost of the examination fees,” read the official notice. The Government’s subsidy will cover up to seven O-Level subjects and four A-Level subjects, including Communication Skills. However, candidates registering for additional subjects beyond these limits will be responsible for the full cost of the extra subjects. “Government will cover seven subjects at Ordinary Level and four subjects at Advanced Level, including Communication Skills. Candidates who want to sit for examinations in more subjects at each level will meet the full examination cost for those subjects themselves,” the statement clarified. For practical subjects, additional fees have been outlined. Public school candidates will pay USD 11 for O-Level practical subjects and USD 22 for A-Level practical subjects. In contrast, private school candidates will pay USD 24 for O-Level practical subjects and USD 48 for A-Level practical subjects. ZIMSEC has also set penalties for late registrations. Examination centers submitting entries after the deadline will incur fines of USD 100 for O-Level centers and USD 150 for A-Level centers. Candidates who need to change subjects will be charged USD 1 per O-Level subject and USD 22 per A-Level subject. All payments must be made through designated bank accounts, with schools and examination centers responsible for collecting and depositing the fees. Individual candidates will not be allowed to make direct deposits. For payments made in local currency, the exchange rate will be determined on specific dates before payments are due. The deadlines for payments are set for March 10-14 for the June exams and March 24-28 for the November exams. _*Luke-ing the Beast in the Eye: Morgan Tsvangirai in memoriam — The tears shall never dry: Luke Tamborinyoka*_ Today marks the seventh anniversary of the death of Morgan Richard Tsvangirai, Zimbabwe’s democracy doyen who I had the privilege to serve as his spokesperson for almost 10 years until his death on 14 February 2018. Tsvangirai just loved his country and in fact, in more ways than one, he was a man of love and it may have been epiphanic that he died on St Valentine’s Day; on the day that the power of love is celebrated worldwide. Throughout our working relationship we became so close that he would come unannounced to my rural village in Domboshava to mourn with me when I lost a close relative, as he did in May 2014 when he came for the funeral and burial of my beloved grandmother, Martha Gatawa Tamborenyoka Gombera. In fact, so close had we become in our 10-year working relationship that he ordered the medical staff at the infirmary in Johannesburg where he eventually met his demise that apart from his wife and family, they were supposed to call and inform me as well should anything untoward happen to him. Rest in power, Pakuru. Thanks for the trust and for the memories. _*State-assisted burial for B/Bridge crash victims*_ President Mnangagwa has declared the head-on collision which claimed 25 people in Beitbridge yesterday morning a national disaster, with victims set to be accorded State-assisted burials. The accident was allegedly caused by the Urban Connect Bus driver who made an overtaking error at the 21km peg north of Beitbridge town in the Tshapfutshe area near the Lutumba tollgate, before colliding head-on with haulage truck. Both drivers survived, but sustained critical injuries. _*European Parliament seeks freeze on EU aid to Rwanda over Congo conflict*_ The European Parliament urged the European Union on Thursday to freeze direct budget support for Rwanda until it breaks links with Tutsi-led M23 rebels and allows humanitarian access to areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo where they advanced. The parliament also called for the suspension of a memorandum of understanding between Rwanda and the EU that aims to support Rwandan supplies of strategic minerals, until Rwanda stops interfering in Congo. _*UNICEF accuses armed men in eastern Congo of raping scores of children*_ Armed men in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo raped hundreds of children and recruited child soldiers at unprecedented levels, the U.N. children's fund said Thursday, as the conflict in the mineral-rich region intensified in recent weeks. "In the North and South Kivu provinces, we are receiving horrific reports of grave violations against children by parties to the conflict, including rape and other forms of sexual violence at levels surpassing anything we have seen in recent years," UNICEF's Executive Director Catherine Russell said in a statement. *STANDARD SPORT* _*Newcastle's Isak keen on Liverpool*_ Newcastle and Sweden striker Alexander Isak, 25, is very interested in a move to Liverpool Standard NewsZimbabwe sports tit bits: *Manchester United are tracking Ipswich Town's 22-year-old English forward Liam Delap* *Despite a spate of injuries Arsenal are unlikely to bolster their striking options by signing a free agent because of the calibre of players available* *Newcastle's Isak and RB Leipzig's Slovenia forward Benjamin Sesko, 21, are among the players Arsenal are planning to move for in the summer* *The agent of Brazil forward Vinicius Jr has told Real Madrid how much the 24-year-old wants in wages to sign a new contact at the La Liga club amid an £830m (1bn euros) offer for a five-year contract in Saudi Arabia* *Bournemouth are yet to open negotiations with manager Andoni Iraola, with the 42-year-old Spaniard set to enter the final year of his contract after the end of the current season* *Former Liverpool and Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago Alcantara is unlikely to be appointed to Barcelona's coaching staff, with members of the club's hierarchy uncertain where the 33-year-old fits into the set-up* *Crystal Palace have placed a £40-50m value on their 27-year-old French forward Jean-Philippe Mateta, who is the subject of interest from Barcelona* Moto moto kuvana veMuzimbabwe 🔥🔥🔥