Tuesday 11 February 2025 *MORNING NEWS UPDATES* _• USD: ZiG Official Exchange – Z$25.69_ • _Black Market Rate - Zig 35:USD1_ • _Innscor in-store – Z$35_ • _KFC, Slice, Eat'n'Lick – Z$35_ New members who wish to receive detailed local, regional and international news from Ignite Media Zimbabwe should "follow" our channel on the link below: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaASRLX6mYPM2XphWy2n *For advertising inquiries call, text or Whatsapp us on +263 778 242 692* *THE HEADLINES* *ED2030 sloganeering resurfaces, as ZANU-PF recruits more spies* *Zim’s Double-digit US$ inflation figure a serious cause for concern-Industry says* *Zimbabwe mandates companies to report in local currency amid forex struggle* *Opposition led Harare loses US$250m in five years, Mayor Mafume says “council has collapsed”* *After ignoring council regulations in property renovations, Mafume’s Belvedere hostel now faces demolition* *Banks prioritise “productive sectors” in loan disbursements* *Parliament resumes sitting* *Chicanery, discord will not derail progress: Mnangagwa* *Geza suddenly caught in web of fraud, perjury* *Chirambwe Denies Mahere’s Sexual Harassment Claims, Demands Evidence* *Zimbabwe govt launches one-stop centre for title deed issuance* *Be worried when a Zim minister says “There Is No Space Barons At New Mbare Musika”….It means the new Mbare Musika is now infested with space barons* *How Mushayavanhu Is Continuing A Long RBZ Tradition: Denial, Denial, Denial* *Executive Air accused of flight log irregularities amid tax evasion allegations* *Econet allays security breach fears…* *….As NETONE Loses US$1,3M To Dealer* *South Africa law at centre of Trump row challenged in court* *Zuma’s MK Party files treason complaint against pro-white NGO as South Africa’s land row escalates* *IGNITE SPORT* *Man City vs Real Madrid like a Clásico now - Carlo Ancelotti* *Guardiola: Impossible to control all of Real Madrid's attackers* *FA Cup draw: Plymouth rewarded with trip to face Man City* *Man Utd eye Barca left-back* *Newcastle are planning a £33.3m (40m euros) summer bid for PSV Eindhoven's 21-year-old Belgium forward Johan Bakayoko* *Newcastle are also set to beat Barcelona and Real Madrid to the free transfer signing of 18-year-old Spain Under-19 winger Antonio Cordero, whose Malaga contract expires this summer* *Manchester United and Chelsea are interested in Ipswich's 22-year-old English striker Liam Delap* *Chelsea are interested in Copenhagen's 19-year-old Sweden Under-21 winger Roony Bardghji* *Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has been told he must decide before May if he wants to become the coach of Brazil* *Arsenal expect to sign Espanyol's 23-year-old Spanish goalkeeper Joan Garcia this summer* *Manchester United wantc to replace Dan Ashworth at Old Trafford* *THE DETAILS WITH IGNITE MEDIA ZIMBABWE* _*ED2030 sloganeering resurfaces, as ZANU-PF recruits more spies*_ The Mavetera-led Women for Economic Development (Women4ED), a ZANU-PF affiliate faction aligned to President Emmerson Mnangagwa remained defiant in pushing for his long stay in power, while the party also intensified recruitment of more spies masquerading as accredited journalists during national events. An observation by Bulawayo24News during the burial of late comrade Tinaye Elisha Nzirasha Chigudu witnessed the grouping singing and reciting songs signaling full support for Mnangagwa to unconstitutionally further extend his rule beyond maximum limit. We are Ignite Media Zimbabwe. “Chekutanga tarira pananiko, heh pana Baba Mnangagwa. Chechipiri tarira pananiko heh pana Chiwenga, chimbotongayi makadaro, tongayi makadaro (Mnangagwa is still at the helm, Chiwenga is second in command and nothing should change, just lead/rule us as it is," they recited then Mbare Chimurenga choir song. "2030 muri chocolate, 2030 Baba muri chocolate. Tongayi Shumba muri chocolate, tongayi Shumba Baba muri chocolate (Until 2030, you will still be chocolate, lead us till 2030," they sing while referring Mnangagwa to sweet chocolate. ZANU-PF has for long used music as a means to communicate with masses, evoke memories and stimulant tools for effecting successional war dominance. Meanwhile, the burial witnessed several ladies and gentlemen doning in khaki sleeveless jacket inscribed with ZANU-PF logo with a motto, ED PFEE, roaming and mingling around the media section with smartphones and small tablet phones. During the burial of then late national heroes when Mnangagwa was on annual leave, no one was seen chanting 2030 slogans when most feared ZANU-PF number two, Constantino Chiwenga presided. Today's burial, which is the first for Mnangagwa to preside from his annual leave witness more 2030ists sloganeering from the bays. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. In a post circulated over the weekend in one of ZANU-PF social media grouping, the party's foot soldiers announced its recruitment drive for cyber-team commissars who will also act as digital spies. "ZANU PF DCC 6 NOTICE TO ALL DISTRICTS (RECRUITMENT OF DIGITAL AMBASSADORS). All District Chairpersons to make sure that lists of names for members with a minimum qualification of a Bachelor's Degree in ICT, who will be employed as Digital Ambassadors be compiled and submitted to DCC 6 Office on Sunday 9 February 2025, at 2 pm," the post reads. "Thereafter, the listed members will report to ZANU PF Harare Province on Monday, 10 February 2025 at 10 am. Issued by Cde Joshua Gore, DCC 6 Coordinator," the announcement further reads. _*Zim’s Double-digit US$ inflation figure a serious cause for concern-Industry says*_ A double-digit US$ inflation rate is cause for concern considering the economy is already highly dollarized, industry lobby group Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) has said. Zimbabwe is battling to maintain sustainable inflation rates with a series of measures being implemented time and again to achieve the goal. Last year, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) introduced the ZWG currency – a minerals and foreign currency backed local unit and presented it as the lasting solution to decades-old currency problems. Six months after its introduction, the ZWG suffered massive depreciation against the greenback on the alternative market. The central bank was forced to swallow the bitter pill after intervening by unilaterally declaring a 43% devaluation rate in a bid to align with realistic market trends. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. However, inflationary rates published by the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (Zimstat) last month indicated that the country’s ‘safe-haven’, the US$ endured severe inflation blows after the year-on-year US$ inflation rate for January 2025 jumped to 14.6%, thereby gaining 12,1% from a rate of 2,5% in December 2024. “Against the background, double-digit USD inflation under a highly dollarized environment is a cause for concern, as prices are generally expected to be stable in USD terms,” the industry grouping inflation tracker said. Records show that US$ inflation rate has been stable since January 2021 with current trends departing from the year’s long gains. “In Zimbabwe, US$ inflation is normally a response to ZWG inflation, as retailers adjust their prices in line with ZWG prices to avoid being accused by the RBZ’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) for using the parallel market rates,” the CZI analysis said. The US$ month-on-month inflation began the year at a higher rate of about 11,5% for January 2025, which is an all-time high rate over the past four years. _*Zimbabwe mandates companies to report in local currency amid forex struggle*_ Zimbabwe’s central bank has issued a new directive for listed companies to report their financial results in the country’s struggling local currency, and also reduced the portion of proceeds that exporters retain in foreign currency. Stretched for foreign exchange resources and struggling to entrench usage of the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) local unit of exchange, the administration of President Emerson Mnangagwa has been scrambling for ways to contain company closures, de-stocking by retailers and decimation of the formal economy. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. This has resulted in new monetary measures announced by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe governor, John Mushayavanhu, including a requirement that companies listed on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange report their financials in the ZiG currency. With the economy highly dollarised, most Zimbabwe listed companies had started to report their financials in US dollars, mirroring the currency of transactions processed by their businesses. “Given the need to ensure comparability of financial statements, the Reserve Bank, following consultations with the Public Accountants and Auditors Board (PAAB), requires that all entities adopt a common presentation currency, ZiG, for reporting purposes, with immediate effect, including for the 2024 audited financial statements,” Mushavanhu said last week. Although listed companies such as Delta Corporation have noted that more than 70% of transactions were in US dollars, Mushayavanhu said the requirement to report financials in local currency was “consistent with the increase in the number and value of transactions settled” in ZiG. Zimbabwe introduced the ZiG currency in April last year. Apart from this, the Zimbabwean central bank has reduced the portion of earnings that exporters can retain in foreign currency. Zimbabwean exporters and other businesses argue that all their inputs and working capital is in US dollars. The Horticultural Development Council said lowering of the forex retention threshold from 70% to 75% “presents significant challenges for the horticulture sector that relies heavily on foreign currency earnings” to sustain production. Under the forex retention policy, exporters in Zimbabwe get 75% of their earnings in foreign currency while 25% is paid out in the local currency equivalent at the official exchange rate that often trails the thriving parallel exchange rate. “The horticulture industry operates within tight cost margins, with most inputs—such as power, fuel, seed, fertilisers, packaging, and freight—denominated in US dollars,” said Linda Nielsen, CEO of HDC. “The reduction in forex retention means exporters will have less hard currency to meet these critical expenses, placing strain on cash flow and investment in the sector.” Zimbabwean retailers have been among the most affected by the country’s currency uncertainty, with many wholesale and retail companies folding up, rationalising operations and destocking. The Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers said over the weekend that the reduction of the foreign currency retention threshold posed challenges for the retail and wholesale sector “in terms of supply chain stability” and pricing. “Exporters, who also supply goods to local formal retailers and wholesalers, rely heavily on foreign currency for key inputs in their various fields,” said Denford Mutashu, head of the Zimbabwe retailers grouping. “With reduced forex retention, these exporters may struggle to meet their USD-denominated expenses, leading to higher production costs and possibly further dollarising supply chains.” This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. _*Opposition led Harare loses US$250m in five years, Mayor Mafume says “council has collapsed”*_ The Harare City Council has been losing funds due to leakages and inefficiencies, with estimated losses exceeding US$250 million over the past five years, Mayor Jacob Mafume claimed during an ongoing Commission of Inquiry investigating the council’s operations since 2017. The lack of a functional Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system has been cited as a major contributor to these losses. The council’s opaque billing system has created opportunities for corruption and embezzlement by senior officials. Between 2019 and 2020, the Auditor General flagged financial mismanagement at the council, with over US$200 million unaccounted for. Mafume suggested that the actual losses might be higher, as management has ensured that no audits have been conducted since 2019. He cited anecdotal evidence of millions being paid out, duplicate payments being made, and ratepayers’ fees being waived. “I have tried everything to get an ERP system installed at the Council. I end up being accused of interference, but I have done everything humanly possible to get an ERP in place. We cannot function without an ERP. “This is a deliberate act by our procurement department and management. They do not want an ERP system implemented,” Mafume said. The Mayor also accused his fellow councillors of conniving with the management. He damningly stated that some of the councillors did not understand the importance of an ERP and could not comprehend the Auditor General’s recommendations. “Some councillors have been complicit in frustrating efforts to get the ERP. “Some of them could not understand the Auditor General’s recommendations,” he stated. Mafume went on to state that, “that is where the council has collapsed.” This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. “There is no accountability. The management does not want to implement the resolutions about ERP.” Asked by lead evidence investigator, Thabani Mpofu, if it was worth it keeping ‘incompetent’ councillors, Mafume stated: “Of course they shouldn’t be working there. They always find excuses for not implementing it.” The council’s implementation of the SAGE system, which replaced Quill Associates’ billing system, has been riddled with inefficiencies. This has resulted in the council being unable to account for a significant amount of money, potentially amounting to billions. Mafume has accused top officials of forming a corruption cartel, profiting from the chaos. He has also claimed that the council’s executive has obstructed his efforts to implement a functional ERP system. Over 100,000 households are not in the council’s system, shortchanging the local government. _*After ignoring council regulations in property renovations, Mafume’s Belvedere hostel now faces demolition*_ Having presided over the City of Harare’s demolition of homes in Belvedere last year, insisting they bypassed due process, Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume is about to find the boot on the other foot. A City of Harare inspector, David Wadarwa, Monday told the Commission of Inquiry, led by retired Judge Justice Maphios Cheda, that he will recommend the demolition – of unauthorised renovations to Mafume’s own Belvedere property. It could be a classic case of hoist by his own petard. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Mafume, it seems, has transformed his residential pad into a hostel, a commercial venture that blatantly ignores council rules. He has admitted the foul play – neglecting to apply for a “change of use” permit. - Mayor Mafume’s luxurious home funded by shady deals, disregard of council regulations; Harare Commission of Inquiry says - Mafume fingers wife in hostel inspection storm During his commission testimony, Wadarwa appeared like a rabbit caught in the headlights, completely floundering when quizzed about his inspection of Mafume’s property. The commission grilled Wadarwa relentlessly, demanding an explanation for how he greenlighted the inspection on a building that did not match the plans. “Why were you signing for developments which are not in accordance with the plan?” lead evidence Tapiwa Fresh Godzi pressed. Wadarwa replied, “To me, it’s normal that I sign and then recommend that changes are made.” When pushed further, he stammered, “It was an error on my part, Sir.” An error repeated six times, apparently, each one carefully signed off on – queried Justice Cheda. Wadarwa claims he was pressured by his boss and dashed through the process, forging dates as he signed off on all six approvals in a single day. The commission then inquired about Wadarwa’s remedy to his mistakes. “I will advise the owner of the property to demolish the alterations made to his property and revert to the original approved plan. I will write a letter to my seniors informing them about this,” he said. Mafume, despite admitting to bending the rules, is clinging to the hope of “regularisation” – relying on a loophole in the by-laws. But City of Harare Urban Planning Acting Director Samuel Nyabeza said it is not possible. He branded the inspection signatures on Mafume’s property plan as highly suspicious, noting the impossibility of such frequent inspections. Nyabeza also insisted that Mafume must rectify his error by returning the property to its original residential status. Mafume is understood to have jetted out of the country but will be back next week to face the commission. _*Banks prioritise “productive sectors” in loan disbursements*_ Zimbabwe’s banking sector is now giving priority to the key productive sectors of the economy after loans to these critical segments of the economy accounted for 72,25 percent of total disbursements last year, reports the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe’s main productive sectors are agriculture, mining, tourism, and manufacturing. The banking sector has been sourcing lines of credit from different financiers globally to support the key sectors, mainly businesses that are export-orientated or, as in the case of tourism, are foreign currency earners and so able to pay back external loans. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. This has kept the domestic economy going despite the absence of long-term concessional support from multilateral lenders and the collapse of many correspondent banking relationships, making affordable external credit hard to come by. Access to external funding has, however, not been a stroll in the park due to the impact of illegal Western sanctions, which blocked easy access to some key lenders and projected Zimbabwe as a risky borrower, making many available loans pricey. A banking focus on prioritising productive sectors, as opposed to providing consumptive loans, is critical to enable business and economic growth. This means that the banks have directed most of the funding at their disposal in supporting for-profit or value-creation initiatives as opposed to consumptive loans borrowed to meet individual or household needs or even to speculate on equity and foreign currency markets. Limited funding to business and key productive sectors strain the country’s potential for growth, which is critical for job creation and sustaining existing ones. Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Mthuli Ncube expects the economy to grow by 6 percent this year, with the World Bank expecting a slightly better 6,3 percent, driven by agriculture, mining and tourism. Economic growth slowed down markedly last year to just two percent, weighed down by the poor performance of agriculture following the devastating El Nino-induced drought. But despite that drought and its effects on agriculture, Zimbabwe continued to move forward, just more slowly. According to the 2025 Monetary Policy Statement (MPS), by the end of last year, aggregate banking sector loans and advances amounted to ZiG55,93 billion, representing a 102 percent increase from ZiG27,45 billion reported six months earlier. “Lending to agriculture accounted for 14,72 percent and manufacturing 14,94 percent of total loans, individuals and households accounted for 25,51 of the total loans, while others were at 2,24 percent,” reads part of the MPS. According to the MPS, the increase in aggregate banking sector loans was largely attributed to the revaluation of foreign currency-denominated loans, which accounted for 88,17 percent of the banking sector’s aggregate loans. As of January 20 this year, the loans and advances amounted to ZiG50,33 billion. Financial analyst Mr Malone Gwadu said it was encouraging to have more loan funding going to key sectors of the economy as opposed to being skewed towards individual consumption financing. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. He said productive sectors needed the funding for working capital gap filling, recapitalisation, technology modernisation, and as shock absorbers during periods of market turbulence. “Having a huge chunk of funding for production is quite pleasing, as it also feeds through the broader economy through increased production and productivity, job absorption, a widened tax base, and also the potential accelerator effect the funding might have in the economy,” he said. According to RBZ Governor Dr John Mushayavanhu, the banking sector’s financial soundness metrics as of the end of last year, indicated that the banking sector remains safe and sound and continues to contribute to economic growth. As of December 31 last year, 18 out of 19 banking institutions reported core capital above the minimum regulatory capital requirement of US$30 million. Dr Mushayavanhu said Time Bank, with a reported core capital of US$4,52 million as of December 31, 2024, was authorised to commence limited commercial banking activities, but without taking deposits, in August 2022 so there is no risk to depositors as there are none. “The Reserve Bank will leverage the external audit reports in verification of the declared capital positions submitted by banking institutions,” he said. According to the MPS, total banking sector assets increased from ZiG77,55 billion as of 30 June last year to ZiG161,39 billion by the end of the year, and the asset mix remained skewed towards loans and advances, which accounted for 31,39 percent of total banking sector assets as at year end compared to 32,25 percent at mid-year. A year end, the sector reported an aggregate non-performing loans to total loans ratio of just 3,37 percent, compared to 2.02 percent at mid year, but the year-end ration was still well within the internationally acceptable threshold of 5 percent. Dr Mushayavanhu said total banking sector deposits continued on an upward trajectory, increasing from ZiG43,60 billion reported at mid-year to ZiG89,07 billion at year end, mainly driven by translation of foreign currency denominated deposits due to exchange rate movements. Herald _*Parliament resumes sitting*_ Parliament resumes sitting today after a nearly two-month break with their work cut out for them. The two houses adjourned in December last year for the festive season just after passing the 2025 national budget. While the houses will resume business today, portfolio committees where a lot of the detailed work is done, have already begun operating with most of them holding closed-door in-house meetings. Bills that are before them include the Persons with Disabilities Bill, the Parks and Wildlife Amendment Bill, the Private Voluntary Organisations Amendment Bill, the Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill, the Medical Services Amendment Bills, the Insurance and Pensions Commission Amendment Bill, the Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill and the State Services (Pensions) Amendment Bill. The Persons with Disabilities Bill seeks to improve the rights and freedoms of people with disabilities and will replace the present Disabled Persons Act, which is outdated. It will align Zimbabwe’s disability law with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The Parks and Wildlife Amendment Bill seeks to, among other provisions, empower communities next to parks in the management of wildlife and so that they benefit from any related commercial activities and also provide compensation to victims of conflicts involving wildlife. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The Private Voluntary Organisations Amendment Bill was recommitted to the Senate to consider amendments to some clauses that were made in the National Assembly but were omitted in the Bill that was sent to the Senate. The Bills seek to improve the management, accountability and transparency in the management of charity organisations. The Mines and Minerals Amendment Bills seek to among others, ensure communities benefit from minerals resources in their communities and address the rights of farmers where minerals are found on their farms. Some of the Bills have been in Parliament for some time as everyone tries to get them exactly right, with President Mnangagwa withholding his assent to a Bill that was passed in 2018 as he felt some of its provisions violated the Constitution. The Medical Services Amendment Bill brings the Act into line with the Constitution, especially in the Declaration of Rights where the right to health care for all citizens and permanent residents is entrenched along with the rights of children, rights of the elderly, rights of the disabled and rights of war veterans where medical services are a factor. The Insurance and Pensions Commission Amendment Bill seeks to widen the mandate of the commission to improve accountability and transparency in the management of insurance and pension funds. The Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill will, among other things, rationalise foreign ownership of a broadcasting licence up to 40 percent to allow growth and investment in the sector while the State Services (Pension) Amendment Bill will establish a proper pension fund that will pay out State pensions from its investment income and move away from the “pay-as-you-go” scheme now operating where the monthly deductions from active civil servants are turned into the monthly pensions for those who have retired. _*Chicanery, discord will not derail progress: Mnangagwa*_ No amount of economic chicanery, mudslinging and discord should be allowed to derail the country’s irreversible course to modernisation industrialisation and development, President Mnangagwa has said. In his address at the interment of National Hero Cde Tinaye Chigudu at the National Heroes’ Acre yesterday, the President said Zimbabwe was marching forward. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Thus, the President added, the country’s interests must remain the general citizenry’s core focus. “In every sector, province by province, let us remain focused, disciplined and work harder towards the attainment of Vision 2030. “No amount of economic chicanery, mudslinging and discord should be allowed or entertained to derail our irreversible course to modernise, industrialise and develop our country. We are marching forward ever, backwards never. “The long-enduring spirit of national pride and collective loyalty to the nation remains our cardinal beacon. “As citizens of this country, wherever we are and whatever socio-economic activities we may be undertaking, the interests of Zimbabwe must remain at the core of our focus as we build our country brick by brick, stone upon stone. Zimbabwe inyika yechipikirwa,” he said. As such, President Mnangagwa rallied all Zimbabweans both within the country and those in the diaspora to pull in the same direction as one people, for the achievement of national aspirations. _*Geza suddenly caught in web of fraud, perjury*_ Controversial war veteran Cde Blessed Geza has been caught in a web of fraud, perjury, and corruption after he failed to pay US$1 250 000 for a piece of land in Harare and is now hounding prosecutors and police officers involved in the case through open intimidation and harassment. Several prosecutors and police officers have opted out of the case after receiving death threats from the renegade and controversial war veteran, who is locked in a legal battle over the sale of a plot in Harare with former ARDA chairman Mr Basil Nyabadza. According to documents gleaned from court records, in 2020 Cde Geza and Cde Nyabadza entered into a deal for the sale of a portion of land on Plot 5 Spitzkop Harare, for US$1 362 000. Cde Geza made staggered payments totalling US$112 000, and made a commitment that the balance, totalling US$1 250 000 would be paid before October 2021. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Concomitantly, he made an undertaking that he would pay US$100 000 as cash deposit, in instalments of US$25 000, that were to be paid on November 19, 2020, December 10, 2020, December 31, 2020 and January 21, 2021. Despite making the commitments, Cde Geza did not make any, but then lied under oath that he had settled his debts with Mr Nyabadza. This he has been able to achieve, The Herald established, after securing a fake Deed of Transfer Number 6867/73. Subsequently, he received fake documentation of the sale of the land in dispute after, apparently, bribing some officials in the Ministry of Local Government Regarding the payment of the outstanding balance, Cde Geza has failed to meet his end of the bargain over a period of four years. Sources close to the case said the sporadic payment history constitutes a material breach of the agreement of sale. Available information shows that while Cde Geza has dragged Mr Nyabadza in a legal dispute claiming that the latter did not have title deeds on the land in question, he unlawfully obtained a subdivision permit, raising questions over how he managed to acquire a subdivision permit without title deeds. This could suggest that Cde Geza bypassed proper legal channels or used fraudulent means to get the documents. Previously, Cde Geza has reported Mr Nyabadza to the police, on several occasions, but his allegations have consistently failed to stick due to his inability to produce proof of payment and also lack of evidence to support his claims. As a result, he has harassed people involved in the case, for instance on September 4, 2024 at the Harare Magistrates Court during a vetting process Cde Geza, interrupted the Prosecutor Miss Maphosa, during proceedings, accusing her of being biased. He also said, “I will deal with you Nyabadza, if there will be blood, let there be blood.” Apart from threatening Mr Nyabadza, Cde Gezi also threatened prosecutors and police officers who are involved in the case. A few days after threatening Mr Nyabadza in court, Cde Geza on September 7 also deployed 15 rowdy youths to the former’s property and threatened to unleash violence, he repeated the same antics on September 11 of the same month. Although he is the one who took Mr Nyabadza to court, Cde Geza has been failing to turn up for court hearings, resulting in the case being postponed on several occasions. State Media _*Chirambwe Denies Mahere’s Sexual Harassment Claims, Demands Evidence*_ Lawyer and self-proclaimed prophet, Joshua John Chirambwe, has responded to allegations made by fellow lawyer Fadzayi Mahere, who claimed he made inappropriate remarks about her in a WhatsApp group, forcing her to leave. In a message that went viral, Chirambwe is said to have written, “There is this woman I adore beyond words – let’s say I’m rather fond of Fadzi.” He went on to describe another woman in the group as having “elegance that could give royalty a run for their money” and a character “sweet enough to make sugar.” Mahere, in her letter to the Law Society of Zimbabwe (LSZ), argued that Chirambwe’s comments amounted to sexual harassment, adding that his behaviour had been ongoing. However, in a letter dated February 10, 2024, Chirambwe denied making the comments, arguing that Mahere should provide a forensic report linking his mobile device to the alleged messages. He questioned the validity of the claims and requested concrete proof before he could respond further. Below is Chirambwe’s letter to LSZ: 1. The above matter refers and the complaint which borders on the farcical. 2. It is with a modicum of dismay that the first knowledge I garnered of this complaint was via the highly public and unfortunately informal social media. Maybe because I am young, but I thought that it is in the interests of procedural propriety for such matters to remain between the relevant parties. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. 3. It never entered my contemplation that Fadzai Mahere would take the audacious step of submitting such an unadorned, disjointed and bare “complaint” to the hallowed regulatory body entrusted with overseeing the integrity of our entire profession, the Law Society. 4. The action is, with due respect, a lamentable spectacle, wherein a matter of questionable import is artificially inflated to a procedural level that, to a reasonable observer, appears to be an overt affront to the professionalism and gravitas that the Law Society commands. 5. In light of this, one is left to ponder whether the public, by virtue of this conduct, is not only disillusioned but, indeed, wholly justified in questioning the esteem and dignity that should ostensibly characterize our profession. 6. I am young. Fadzai Mahere’s name was first brought to my attention during my tenure in secondary school. Upon the completion of my academic pursuits, our professional paths converged, placing us as colleagues within the very same precincts. 7. We are both occupants of distinguished spaces within the esteemed Tanganyika House, where I, as the proprietor and chairman of the Justice Bar of Advocates, Inns of Court, preside from the 3rd floor, whilst she is elsewhere within the confines of the same building. 8. Our professional proximity is further utilization of the same parking facilities, wherein our vehicles are underscored by our mutual often stationed adjacent to one another, and our frequent and amicable interactions in the lift, where salutations are customarily exchanged. 9. Given this proximity, one might reasonably surmise that had Fadzai Mahere harbored any concerns, she would have availed herself of the professional courtesy of addressing them directly with me prior to taking recourse with the regulatory body which has more important issues to deal with. 10. Such an approach would have yielded a more congenial resolution, sparing parties from undue escalation, copying Advocate David Ochieng and Advocate Thembinkosi Magwaliba. I have so much respect for Advocate Magwaliba who assiduously addresses and responds to the myriad inquiries I have proffered to him concerning matters of law whilst generously endowing me with an extensive repository of legal knowledge. I regret that they have been burdened with receipt of such a barren matter. 11. It is with this background that I find the current complaint somewhat perplexing. It seems that the crux of Fadzai Mahere’s complaint stems from certain screenshots of the 15th of January 2025, allegedly capturing a conversation within a Whatsapp Group. 12. An overture was duly extended to Advocate Thembinkosi Magwaliba, undertaken in the spirit of mediation, with the understanding that the complaint at hand is, in my considered view, a manifest absurdity and, quite frankly, a matter so trifling as to border on the farcical. 13. The legal practitioner involved ought to have been well aware that any meaningful and substantive response to her complaint necessitates the production of the original WhatsApp screenshot, complete with its meta data, since she predicates her complaint on mere copies of the alleged screenshot, which in their current form, fail to permit an inspection of their veracity. 14. It is like being asked to give an opinion on a mystery novel, but not reading past the cover page. 15. She will also appreciate that the nature of her complaint cannot be reasonably addressed in the absence of a full and unaltered transcript of the WhatsApp conversation, inclusive of all preceding and subsequent messages that contextualize the incident. As a matter of law, she must duly provide the meta data concerning the precise date and time of her joining the group and of her departure from the group, along with verifiable evidence that substantiates the purported reason she cites for her exit. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. 16. Maybe because I am young, but it is like being told to write a review for a movie that you haven’t seen and the trailer was just a blur! 17. Further, to the best of my recollection, I have never, under any circumstances or in any WhatsApp exchange anywhere in this world, made any reference to Fadzai Mahere. She must therefore be cognizant of the fact that I cannot, in a good faith response, respond to her allegations without her first establishing a clear causal link between the screenshot and her person. Before one responds to a ghost story, they must verify if the ghost even exists. This is dry law and reason. 18. I am blissfully united in matrimony with my dearest Mukudzei, a woman of remarkable accomplishments and grace. As the Chief Operations Officer of Joshange (Pvt) Ltd, Chairlady of Joshua Resorts and Vice President of Prophetic Ministries International Church, she exemplifies excellence in her professional achievements, she is a dedicated legal practitioner who, by choice, has endeavors. Beyond her corporate embraced the role of nurturing our two cherished children, Beyonce and Chloe. In light of my union with my beloved wife, Mukudzei, I perceive no cause to seek the companionship of another woman. 19. Given the gravity of her allegations against me, it is essential that the requested be furnished to surrounding her departure can be scrutinized in full, and the alleged ensure that the circumstances rationale for her exit can be properly assessed in the context of the present complaint. 20. Maybe because I am young, though I must assert, with the utmost clarity, that my ability to competently address the allegation in question is contingent upon Fadzai Mahere’s establishment of a discernible legal foundation. This includes, but is identification of the specific actions directed at her or addressed to not limited to, the precise her being proffered as constituting sexual harassment, coupled with the comprehensive reference to any pertinent statutory definitions or legal provisions that underpin such an accusation. I cannot be expected to explain a dream that I never had, hence a causal link must be established. 21. Perhaps Fadzai Mahere has misjudged my character and disposition. I am a paragon of unwavering resolve, a man of riches and unbounded courage, unshaken by the presence of any individual, whether they be living or the departed, such that had I harbored any intention to proffer my affections towards her, I would have approached her directly unencumbered by any apprehension, given arrangements and frequent cordial exchanges in the lift. our approximate parking. 22. Even in this instance, such an overture cannot, in and of itself, constitute sexual harassment. As a legal practitioner, she is well aware that any expression of interest by a man is inherently subject to her discretion to either say [1] YES, or [2] NO. Like Viola in Twelfth Night, Act 1, scene 5. But, verily, I possess no desire nor affection for Fadzai Mahere, forsooth, mine heart is pledged unto my fair wife, with whom I share a bounty of love and devotion even in the wake of this complaint, as a man bound by marriage’s sacred vow. 23. Fadzai Mahere must also be aware as a legal practitioner that I cannot meaningfully respond to her allegation without her furnishing a forensic report to demonstrate that my mobile device was indeed the source of the screenshot on the alleged day. Given that WhatsApp operates on a global scale and is not under the jurisdiction of any single nation, including Zimbabwe, it is crucial to trace the message to the specific device, including the IP address, to confirm its origin. Absent this report, her allegation is speculative and lacking in credibility. like being told that I cooked a meal that I never ordered; I am just as It’s confused as everyone else is. This is the dance that she says I choreographed when I never even made it to the studio! 24. Without the specifics demanded herein, any attempt on my part to respond would be nothing short of an exercise where one attempts to navigate through an impenetrable fog of ambiguity, where no discernible path exists. _*Zimbabwe govt launches one-stop centre for title deed issuance*_ The Government has established a one-stop centre to expedite the issuance of title deeds for landholders, streamlining the process and enhancing land tenure security and productivity in Zimbabwe. As part of this initiative, mortgage arrangements will be available for those unable to pay the full purchase price upfront. The programme is being spearheaded by the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The one-stop centre aims to simplify and accelerate the processing of title deeds for holders of valid offer letters, A2 permits, 99-year leases, A1 settlements, and Agricultural Land Settlement Act (ALSA) leases. According to a statement from the Ministry of Agriculture, surveyed farms paid for in cash will have title deeds processed within three days. For those opting for a 90-day payment plan, the deeds will be processed upon payment of a deposit. To assist farmers unable to pay in full, the Government is partnering with financial institutions to provide mortgage arrangements. Further details of these facilities will be announced once finalised. Farmers must begin the process by completing a data collection form with the help of a valuation and estate officer. Required documents include certified copies of ID and tenure documents, along with a US$10 processing fee. The process involves a surveyor confirming the land’s status and uploading diagrams, followed by verification to ensure no disputes exist. A valuation officer will calculate the purchase price for approval. Once payments are made, a conveyancer will register the information, and a deeds official will examine and issue the title deed, along with a clearance certificate for successful payments. The issuance of title deeds represents a milestone in Zimbabwe’s land ownership reforms. It supports the bankability and transferability of land titles, reinforcing the Government’s Land Reform Programme launched in 2000. This initiative aligns with Vision 2030 goals by ensuring farmers can use their land as collateral for loans, thereby boosting productivity and investment. President Emmerson Mnangagwa officially launched this programme on December 20 at Pricabe Farm in Kwekwe, marking a significant step in improving land tenure security across the country. The Herald _*Be worried when a Zim minister says “There Is No Space Barons At New Mbare Musika”….It means the new Mbare Musika is now infested with space barons*_ Allocation of stalls in the temporary traders’ market at Mbare Musika will be done fairly to ensure that all traders who lost their wares in the inferno last year benefit. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. After the completion of the market, there have been allegations that space barons were charging US$10 per person to capture their names on beneficiaries’ lists. Speaking after a Ministers’ tour of the new market yesterday, Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe assured traders that space barons would be dealt with accordingly. “Harare City Council working with other Government Departments has done a verification exercise that is being done accordingly and with transparency. We will never impose people on you to allocate tables, I can assure you that this will be done fairly. I am saying this because there are people who have been demanding $10 per person to verify a trader’s position. The verification is done officially and the names are released in newspapers only,” he said. President Mnangagwa declared a state of disaster after a fire destroyed stalls and wares at the old Mbare Musika last year leaving nearly 5 000 traders stranded. Minister Garwe said the construction of the temporary market and the main market which would be constructed under phase two of the development at Mbare Musika, was in line with national development goals. “This is following President ED Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030, which targets the attainment of an upper-middle income economic status. We are saying there shall be no one and no place left behind in this traders’ market, starting with small and medium enterprises. This modern market is being built in line with international standards so you will be able to see the same structure if you visit other countries,” he added. Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said Government’s promise to traders was being fulfilled as the temporary market was almost complete to pave way for work on the main trader’s market. “I understand that the process is underway to finalise the selection of the first batch of beneficiaries to be housed in the market and I want to assure you that this process will be done in a transparent manner. It’s worth reminding each other that for an orderly allocation of space to traders, we need more cooperation, solidarity, honesty and transparency. Self-aggrandisement and enrichment at the cost of others will ruin the process of modernising Mbare Musika,” she said. Minister Mutsvangwa said the task ahead needed all hands on the deck to restore businesses back to their original position. Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere said the construction of such traders’ markets was a concept that would spread to all provinces to ensure the transformation of value chains. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. “We are talking about the primary industry, that is the agricultural sector, which is based on the success of the land reform programme that has ensured that millions of Zimbabweans have benefitted from the land. The Mbare Musika market becomes a yardstick for us to measure our capacity as a people, to produce, distribute, and market. This becomes part of a platform, which supports the economic empowerment efforts, by President Mnangagwa, through providing platforms for small to medium scale enterprises, which is part of Vision 2030,” he said. Herald _*How Mushayavanhu Is Continuing A Long RBZ Tradition: Denial, Denial, Denial*_ Presenting his monetary policy statement last Thursday, central bank governor John Mushayavanhu displayed one talent that seems to be a requirement for Zimbabwean reserve bank governors – denial. He had a clear explanation for why many retailers are struggling: they’re just bad at business. Never mind the multiple retailers scaling back, or the ones shutting down entirely and skipping town. The government, he assured us, is blameless. “These are management issues. We know it,” Mushayavanhu said. Sure, some mismanagement may exist. But if Mushayavanhu’s logic holds, it must be epidemic across the entire retail sector. And yet, the government’s own research says otherwise. Let’s rewind to 2023. As the retail crisis worsened and prices soared, the government sent out a team—including the Competition and Tariff Commission, the National Competitiveness Commission, and the Consumer Protection Commission—to investigate. Their verdict? The biggest problem was the government’s own policies: “Formal retail shops are mainly sourcing their products in Zimbabwean dollars and settlement of accounts can be done in 15-60 days, which then discourages manufacturers and wholesalers of products to supply to the formal markets, especially when the Zimbabwean dollar is losing value.” Fast forward to January 2024, and the national statistics agency ZimStat surveyed retailers. It found: 62% of them described their financial position as bad, 57% described the operating environment as poor, and over half said they had low stock. This, again, showed a deeper malaise across the sector, not isolated to one player. In 2022, Truworths warned of policies that “rendered (our) products expensive in USD terms and lowly priced in Zimdollar terms.” The company later shut down stores and went into corporate rescue. In 2023, Metro Peech, one of Zimbabwe’s biggest wholesalers, collapsed. Its corporate administrator, Oliver Mutasa, pointed to “competition from the informal sector, which is not subject to similar regulatory compliance.” At the half year, with its sales falling, Pick n Pay pointed to the problem: “The authorities controlled the in-store exchange rate used by formal retail players, while informal players used higher exchange rates.” And just last December, Choppies packed its bags and left. Their reason? “Over the last two years, there has been a significant shift to the informal retail sector, leaving the formal retail sector to battle a reduction of up to 30% in footfall and having to compete with the informal sector.” This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Many others have followed, from N Richards to Mahomed Mussa, two wholesale doyens who have shut down some of their trading space. *Mushayavanhu’s ‘Shadow Banks’* It wasn’t just in retail that Mushayavanhu showed his dexterity. He is also angry that businesses are not banking their money. “The Reserve Bank has noted with concern the increasing abuse of safe deposit boxes and the proliferation of ‘shadow banks’. It has been observed that some businesses are not banking all or most of their cash receipts and are, instead, keeping such cash in safe deposit boxes held with financial institutions and security companies,” he said. Why might businesses be reluctant to bank their cash? Could it have something to do with two decades of eroded confidence in the banking sector? Of course not. It’s just random bad business habits. Meanwhile, it was reported at the weekend that the ZRP lost US$623,000 to an officer who dipped his fingers into the police’s safety deposit box. Perhaps Mushayavanhu should start his lectures on proper banking practices at PGHQ. *ZiG Or Nothing* And then, some more denial. The USD now dominates the economy. Naturally, businesses want to report their financials in dollars. But Mushayavanhu is forcing them to report in ZiG, even if it makes their books look like creative writing exercises. He says: “This requirement is consistent with the increase in the number and value of transactions settled in ZiG since its introduction on 5 April 2024.” Denial, for public officials, should normally be a career-limiting trait. It means problems cannot be solved, because everybody is cosplaying Paul Matavire. They see nothing. But, for Zimbabwean central bank governors, denial is a qualification of sorts, a long-cherished tradition expected of anyone who walks into that building. _*Executive Air accused of flight log irregularities amid tax evasion allegations*_ Executive Air, a prominent aviation company, is facing serious allegations of failing to properly log its flights, raising suspicions of tax evasion and regulatory violations. According to sources, the company has been accused of omitting key details in its flight logs, including flight paths, cargo manifests, passenger information, and crew details. These omissions could constitute a breach of aviation standards established by the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ). A close source, speaking on condition of anonymity, alleged that Executive Air is exploiting relaxed oversight by the CAAZ to bypass proper flight logging procedures. "They are taking advantage of the lax enforcement to avoid paying taxes. This is not just about compliance; it's about a deliberate effort to cheat the system," the source claimed. Ed Mordat, a key figure connected to the controversy, recently denied allegations of irregular practices within Executive Air. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Despite this, the company has not issued an official statement to address the growing concerns. Efforts to contact its representatives for comment have been unsuccessful. The alleged lapses have attracted the attention of aviation authorities, who are reportedly initiating investigations to uncover the full scope of the violations. If proven, these irregularities could lead to severe penalties, including fines, suspension of the company's license, and further audits into its operations. Aviation consultant who did not wants us to publish his name reveal the importance of strict compliance in the industry. "Flight logs are fundamental for ensuring accountability and safety. These allegations, if true, compromise the integrity of not just Executive Air but also the broader aviation ecosystem," He said. This incident highlights a potential gap in oversight by CAAZ, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of aviation regulations. The aviation community and the public now await further updates as investigations progress. _*Econet allays security breach fears…*_ Econet Wireless Zimbabwe has dismissed reports of a massive data breach allegedly giving unauthorised access to its customer records, labelling the claims unfounded and inaccurate. This follows claims by some anonymous entity that it was selling a customer database supposedly belonging to Econet Wireless Zimbabwe (EWZ), sparking concern among both subscribers and the country’s largest mobile network operator. The entity purported to have 852 791 customer records containing full names, emails, addresses, X (formerly twitter), mobile numbers and more. However, EWZ said it was aware of the misleading social media post that first appeared on X on February 4, 2025. The post claimed that the anonymous entity was selling a portion of Econet’s subscriber list and sensitive customer records. “Our internal investigations, which started immediately on the day the allegations were made, have detected no breach on our systems that would lead to unauthorised access to sensitive customer data, that is not already in the public domain or accessible through third parties. “However, because we take claims of any breach of our systems very seriously, the moment the allegations were first reported, we activated our incident management processes, working alongside international cybersecurity experts, and have been monitoring our systems 24/7 to ensure heightened security of our business systems and the privacy of our customers’ sensitive data. We have also kept our regulators and relevant authorities informed,” said EWZ in a statement. Econet said it would continue to closely monitor the situation for any developments while keeping track of reports from cybersecurity experts, regulatory authorities and subscribers regarding potential suspicious activity related to the alleged data leak. Hacking of a mobile network operator can pose significant threats to individuals, businesses and the operator itself. It can disrupt business operations, supply chains and critical infrastructure, leading to significant economic losses and potential long-term damage. Some of the threats include identity theft as names, addresses and identification numbers of clients can be used for fraud, and other malicious activities. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Hackers might also gain access to sensitive financial information, leading to unauthorised transactions, stolen funds and financial losses. This fraudulent activity can lead to disruption of mobile services, including voice, data and SMS, causing inconvenience and potential financial losses to subscribers and businesses. In the meantime, users are advised to exercise caution when receiving unsolicited messages and report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities. _*…As NETONE Loses US$1,3M To Dealer*_ A Netone dealer registered 36 lines in the names of different customers, without their knowledge, and ran a criminal enterprise which resulted in the company losing more than US$1,3 million. Tinashe Denhere, 30, appeared in court over the weekend charged with illegally distributing SIM cards and depriving the company of over US$1 million in revenues from international calls. He was not asked to plead when he appeared before Harare regional magistrate Marewanazvo Gofa. The State alleges that acting in connivance with an unknown sim box owner, who is still at large, Denhere is responsible for buying and reselling sim cards and airtime. It is alleged that between June 2022 and Narvh 2023, Denhere bought Netone Sim Cards for re-sale from Netone shops in Eastgate, Westgate, Kamfinsa, Netone and Kopje Plaza, Harare. Denhere fraudulently registered a total of 36 Netone lines. He activated and distributed 36 Netone Sim cards to the sim box owner. The sim box owner inserted the Netone Sim Cards in the sim boxes. The sim box owner started using them without authority from Netone, thereby defrauding the company of revenue from international calls made on its network. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The complainant is Netone Cellular (Pvt) Ltd, which is being represented by Munyaradzi Hove. He is employed as a Fraud Management Manager. On February 5 NetOne filed a police report after the offence was discovered in an audit. The company suffered actual prejudice of US$1 337 488-92 and nothing was recovered. H Metro _*South Africa law at centre of Trump row challenged in court*_ A legal challenge against a controversial new land seizure law at the centre of a row with US President Donald Trump has been filed by the Democratic Alliance (DA), which is part of South Africa's coalition government. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The Expropriation Act allows for private land to be seized by the government without compensation in certain cases. Trump has frozen foreign aid to the country as a result, alleging that land is being confiscated already. The government, which is made up of 10 parties led by the African National Congress (ANC), said the US president's actions were based on "a campaign of misinformation and propaganda aimed at misrepresenting our great nation". The ANC was forced into a power-sharing deal last year after losing its parliamentary majority, for the first time in three decades, in May's general election. South Africans' anger over land set to explode The DA, which is the coalition's second largest party, has called the Expropriation Act unconstitutional, arguing that no democratic government should be given powers to seize property without compensation. The party said that South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa signed it into law against its advice. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. In a statement last week, the DA said that it was deeply concerned about the threat by Trump to halt funding. The ANC said no land has been seized without compensation and added this would only happen in exceptional circumstances, such as if land was needed for public use and all other avenues to acquire the land had been exhausted. _*Zuma’s MK Party files treason complaint against pro-white NGO as South Africa’s land row escalates*_ CAPE TOWN, South Africa – The party of South Africa’s ex-president Jacob Zuma on Monday filed a treason complaint against AfriForum, a group championing the white Afrikaner minority, after Donald Trump attacked the country’s new law aimed at redistributing white-owned land. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. AfriForum has lobbied against the law in US media and political circles, portraying it as part of a wider onslaught against Afrikaners, and Zuma’s MK party accused it in a criminal complaint of spreading misinformation to influence Trump. The US president last week signed an executive order cutting financial assistance to South Africa, citing the land expropriation act and Pretoria’s genocide case against Israel, Washington’s close ally, at the International Court of Justice. The Trump administration said Afrikaners, the descendants of predominantly Dutch 17th century settlers, could come to the United States as refugees, lending credence to AfriForum’s complaint that they are being persecuted, which is disputed by the South African government and most political parties. *IGNITE SPORT* _*Man City vs Real Madrid like a Clásico now - Carlo Ancelotti*_ Carlo Ancelotti said Manchester City vs. Real Madrid "feels like a Clásico now" as the teams prepare to meet in the Champions League for the fourth season in a row, and backed the tie's winner to "go far in the competition." In previous years, City and Madrid have met in the Champions League semifinals or quarterfinals -- with Madrid emerging victorious in 2022 and 2024, and City in 2023 -- but this time, they face off in the knockout phase playoff, after underwhelming European campaigns. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. City go into Tuesday's first leg at the Etihad Stadium having struggled this season -- they're fifth in the Premier League -- while Madrid, despite leading LaLiga, are dealing with an injury crisis that's seen them deprived of senior defenders Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba. _*Guardiola: Impossible to control all of Real Madrid's attackers*_ Pep Guardiola has admitted Real Madrid’s front four of Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo will be impossible for Manchester City to control for the entirety of their Champions League playoff with the holders. City host Real on Tuesday night in the ­opening leg before the return match at the Santiago Bernabéu next Wednesday. While Rodrygo, Bellingham and Vinícius all started the 2-0 final victory against Borussia Dortmund last year, with the latter two combining for Real’s second goal, Mbappé joined in the summer from Paris Saint-Germain and has scored 22 goals and provided three assists in all competitions so far this season. “It’s impossible for 90 minutes, 180 minutes or 200 minutes – ­depending on extra time – to control these four players. They are exceptional,” ­Guardiola said. “How they combine, their runs, the ­ability one‑against‑one, how they keep the ball. So we have to reduce their involvement as much as possible. Knowing that [they will be dangerous at some point] is going to happen, accept it. _*FA Cup draw: Plymouth rewarded with trip to face Man City*_ Plymouth Argyle's stunning victory over Liverpool on Sunday has seen them rewarded with a trip to face Pep Guardiola's Manchester City in the fifth round of the FA Cup. The Championship's bottom club miraculously knocked out Arne Slot's previously all-conquering Liverpool side with a 1-0 win at Home Park thanks to Ryan Hardie's 53rd-minute penalty. The defeat was only the fourth suffered by the Premier League leaders this season. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Plymouth's famous win ended Liverpool's pursuit of an unprecedented quadruple this campaign. Monday's draw also pitted holders Manchester United against Fulham, while Aston Villa will host Cardiff City. Elsewhere, Crystal Palace will face Millwall in a London derby and Carabao Cup finalists Newcastle United will play Brighton, who knocked Chelsea out on Saturday. Preston North End's clash with Burnley means there is guaranteed to be at least one second-tier side in the quarterfinal stage of the competition. _*Man Utd eye Barca left-back*_ Manchester United are ready to submit a bid of £33.3m (40m euros) for Barcelona's 21-year-old Spain left-back Alejandro Balde in the summer Ignite Media Zimbabwe sports tit bits: *Newcastle are planning a £33.3m (40m euros) summer bid for PSV Eindhoven's 21-year-old Belgium forward Johan Bakayoko* *Newcastle are also set to beat Barcelona and Real Madrid to the free transfer signing of 18-year-old Spain Under-19 winger Antonio Cordero, whose Malaga contract expires this summer* *Manchester United and Chelsea are interested in Ipswich's 22-year-old English striker Liam Delap* *Chelsea are interested in Copenhagen's 19-year-old Sweden Under-21 winger Roony Bardghji* *Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has been told he must decide before May if he wants to become the coach of Brazil* *Arsenal expect to sign Espanyol's 23-year-old Spanish goalkeeper Joan Garcia this summer* *Manchester United wantc to replace Dan Ashworth at Old Trafford* This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production.