Tuesday 11 February 2025 *EVENING 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* *Zimbabwe's political tensions set to explode* *War Veteran Blessed Geza Echoes Morgan Tsvangirai – Calls for “Final Push”* *Zimbabwe’s gold coins sell for record $3,000 as bullion surges* *Elon Musk Calls For Closure Of VOA Studio 7…”We’re wasting US$1billion annually”* *Jabulani Sibanda Warns Zimbabwe In Danger Of Being Re-colonised* *Cash Deposit Box Seizures is punishing businesses for government failure: Engineer Jacob Mutisi* *Government’s Failure To Provide Interest-Free Loans Leaves Mbare Musika Traders In Limbo* *ZIMRA Confiscates And Destroys 21 Boats On Limpopo River* *Geza’s Farm Workers Capture 19-Year Old “Spy” Taking Photos At Farmhouse* *Zimbabwe Makes First Payments to BIPPA-Protected White Farmers* *Explainer: Why Zimbabwe Paid White Farmers US$20 Million Compensation For Land Reform Seizures – All The Details* *ZACC to launch National Anti-Corruption Strategy 2…Yet Nothing To Show For Anti-Corruption Strategy 1* *RBZ Goes After Chivhayo’s Cash Stash…Or Will They?* *Mohadi In Fresh Health Scare* *Heavy rains expected* *‘Ledger fees’ major revenue source for Zim banks* *Jabulani Sibanda Resurfaces* *South Africans kiss Pick n Pay stores goodbye* *Woman loses ZAR78k in vehicle registration scam* *South African company offers a cool R100,000 REWARD after 2 Zimbabwean drivers stole their trucks and vanished* *Starved, Tortured & Forgotten: Shocking truth behind Stilfontein Mine Deaths exposed as police help Zama Zama boss Tiger to escape, 75 bodies decompose* *Zuma orders daughter to apologise for online rant against MK Party secretary-general Shivambu* *Super Bowl Halftime Show dancer gets NFL lifetime ban for displaying Palestinian flag during performance* *Bogus scientific papers are enriching fraudsters and slowing lifesaving medical research* *China strikes back with $14bn in retaliatory tariffs on US goods* *Trump attacks South Africa again* *THE DETAILS WITH IGNITE MEDIA ZIMBABWE* _*Zimbabwe's political tensions set to explode*_ Zimbabwe's already volatile political climate is on the brink of further turmoil this week as ruling Zanu-PF Members of Parliament (MPs) prepare to table and push through a controversial motion that seeks to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa's rule beyond the 2028 constitutional limit, giving him an additional two years in power. While President Mnangagwa has repeatedly denied any intention to extend his presidency, claiming that he plans to retire at the end of his second term, insiders within his party have revealed that his supporters are aggressively pursuing the agenda to keep him in power until 2030. The motion, if passed, would require a change to the constitution and has sparked fierce debates within the ruling party and across the country. We are Ignite Media Zimbabwe. The motion is expected to deepen the divisions within Zanu-PF, where rival factions are already engaged in intense power struggles. The prospect of a third term for Mnangagwa has ignited tempers and set party members against each other, with some arguing that the move is an attempt to circumvent the constitutional limits, while others view it as a necessary step to maintain political stability. However, the proposed extension of Mnangagwa's term is not just a matter of internal party politics. It has also exacerbated public discontent, as widespread economic challenges, corruption, and allegations of cronyism continue to plague the country. Many Zimbabweans are growing increasingly frustrated with the government's failure to address economic decline, rising unemployment, and rampant poverty. Opposition parties and civil society groups have vehemently condemned the motion, calling it a dangerous attempt to entrench authoritarian rule. They argue that extending Mnangagwa's tenure would further undermine democracy in the country and deepen the political and economic crises. Critics are particularly concerned about the lack of meaningful reforms and the continued dominance of the ruling party in all aspects of Zimbabwean life. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. As tempers flare both within Zanu-PF and the wider political landscape, the motion has the potential to spark a political showdown in parliament this week. With both the ruling party and the opposition digging in their heels, the debate promises to be a high-stakes battle, with the future direction of Zimbabwe's leadership hanging in the balance. As tensions mount and political maneuvering intensifies, Zimbabweans are left to wonder: Will Mnangagwa's term be extended, or will the motion be thwarted by internal divisions and public pressure? Whatever the outcome, it is clear that the political fault lines within Zanu-PF and the broader nation are reaching a breaking point, and the coming days could prove pivotal in shaping the future of Zimbabwe's political landscape. _*War Veteran Blessed Geza Echoes Morgan Tsvangirai – Calls for “Final Push”*_ War veteran Blessed Geza has called for a “final push” against the government, echoing the words of late opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai. Speaking at a press conference on Monday night, Geza, a Zanu PF central committee member known for opposing President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s bid to extend his term beyond 2028, declared that Zimbabweans would soon receive a “clearer signal” for action. “We have been mobilising ourselves to deliver the final blow, to a dictatorship that lacks any wisdom or empathy.” “We are now ready to deliver the final push, a push that needs all of us to face the odds and birth a new country. We are going to give you a clearer signal soon, it will come before 20:30 hours at night so that we end this 2030 business,” Geza stated. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. His remarks are reminiscent of Tsvangirai’s 2002 “final push” campaign, which aimed to mobilise mass protests against then-President Robert Mugabe’s rule. That campaign, however, failed to gain enough public support, and the opposition later fractured due to internal conflicts. In 2007, after a brutal crackdown on opposition leaders, the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) declared the “final stage of the final push” against Mugabe. Yet, once again, mass protests did not materialise. “There Will Be No Repeat of 2017” Addressing concerns that this was just another factional fight within Zanu PF, Geza insisted that their goal was to benefit all Zimbabweans. “The idea is to embrace every Zimbabwean without exception. This is not a fight for one party or one person. No. There will be no repeat of 2017. There’s no ‘Chinhu Chedu’ in this space. It’s ours together.” Referring to the military coup that ousted Mugabe in 2017, Geza said many war veterans had backed Operation Restore Legacy in good faith, only to feel betrayed. “Maybe what happened in 2017 worries many, but it was sad. Many of us invested money, personal resources to fund Operation Restore Legacy. We lost millions with the hope of restoring this country to a democracy, but little did we know that we were fighting for thieves. We are wiser and clever now.” _*Zimbabwe’s gold coins sell for record $3,000 as bullion surges*_ Zimbabwe’s gold coins sold above $3 000 for the first time since they were introduced almost three years ago as the price of bullion surged. The 22-carat “Mosi-Oa-Tunya” gold coins, named after Victoria Falls, a popular tourist destination in southern Africa, were priced at $3 018.38, according to data on the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s website Monday. Spot gold rose to a record $2 911.72 an ounce after US President Donald Trump said he plans to impose 25% tariffs on steel and aluminium imports. poster The coins have been snapped up by institutional investors and ordinary citizens seeking a store of value against high inflation and frequent currency crises. The bulk of the coins were bought using the Zimbabwean dollar, which was replaced by the ZiG in April, after it lost 80% of its value against. Governor John Mushayavanhu said in July the central bank would stop minting the coins to boost its gold reserves used to back the ZiG. At the end of January, the southern African nation held about 2.67 tons of gold, the governor said. Holders of the gold coins can still redeem them at the central bank. _*Elon Musk Calls For Closure Of VOA Studio 7…”We’re wasting US$1billion annually”*_ Elon Musk, the South African-born U.S. billionaire and head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), recently took to X (formerly Twitter) to call for the shutting down of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and Voice of America, both of which are funded by the U.S. government, reported Xinhua. His comments came after Richard Grenell, the U.S. special envoy for special missions, criticized these media outlets for being taxpayer-funded and filled with “far-left activities.” Wrote Grenell: Radio Free Europe and Voice of America are media outlets paid for by the American taxpayers. It is state-owned media. These outlets are filled with far-left activists. I’ve worked with these reporters for decades. It’s a relic of the past. We don’t need government-paid media outlets. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Musk backed up Grenell’s comments, saying, “Yes, close them. Europe is free now (not counting the stifling bureaucracy). Nobody listens to them anymore. They are just crazy radical leftists talking to themselves while burning American taxpayer money. That’s about $1 billion a year wasted.” VOA, established in 1942, is the oldest and largest U.S. international broadcaster. It creates content in 48 languages across digital platforms, TV, and radio, including a special service for Zimbabwe called Studio 7, which has been on air since 2003. _*Jabulani Sibanda Warns Zimbabwe In Danger Of Being Re-colonised*_ ZANU PF Bulawayo provincial chairperson and former war veterans’ leader, Jabulani Sibanda, has raised concerns about the risks of disunity in Zimbabwe, especially among the war veterans. He believes that this fragmentation could pave the way for Western powers to re-colonise the country. Speaking at the launch of the Presidential War Veterans Fund, Sibanda warned that enemies of the nation might exploit divisions to undermine Zimbabwe’s independence. He said (via Southern Eye): This is the time to unite. The whites will be coming soon, United States President Donald Trump has announced withdrawal from some institutions under the United Nations. Even tomorrow, due to their strength, they can re-colonise Africa. This is the danger that we are facing in Africa. We are full of resources, we are in danger from countries full of nuclear weapons and injections. Those in the politburo should be like leaves of a tree. The destruction of a tree is noticed from the top. I know they are people who enjoy positions because if people are scattered, they become the only ones in charge but that will not help them considering the danger ahead of us. Sibanda’s comments come at a time when frustration with Zimbabwe’s leadership is bubbling to the surface. Some war veterans’ leaders are urging their fellow veterans to resist financial and material offers, believing these incentives are being used to win support for extending President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term. Sibanda has called on Cephas Ncube, leader of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association, to play a key role in maintaining unity among the former freedom fighters. He said: We are tasking you, Ncube, to move around and meet all war veterans and preach unity. Those war veterans who view things in a different way I have nothing against them, but I call on them to consider unity. On Saturday, Mnangagwa showered war veterans with cash and gifts during the launch of the new fund in Bulawayo. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. At the event, the Special Presidential Investment Advisor to the United Arab Emirates, Paul Tungwarara, handed out US$200 and a hamper to each war veteran, making sure they felt appreciated. He also announced that each of Zimbabwe’s 10 provinces would receive US$150,000 to support short-term projects aimed at benefiting the veterans of the liberation struggle. _*Cash Deposit Box Seizures is punishing businesses for government failure: Engineer Jacob Mutisi*_ Dear Governor Dr John Mushayavanhu, I feel compelled to address a pressing issue regarding the proposal to seize cash deposit boxes in light of businesses not banking their cash. We now have a governor who wants to punish businesses for the government failures. It clearly appears that this approach does not recognise the lessons learned from our past experiences with previous governors. Many Zimbabweans remember the traumatic events when bank accounts were raided, resulting in having worthless Zim Kwacha and a deep mistrust in our financial institutions. This history has led businesses to adopt alternative methods for managing their cash, primarily to safeguard their assets. Your proposal risks provoking further distrust and could drive businesses to seek even less secure options for their cash, ultimately harming the economy. Rather than resorting to measures that may appear punitive, I urge you to focus on creating an environment where businesses feel confident in banking their money. Strengthening the banking system, ensuring its stability and fostering transparent communication will encourage businesses to re-engage with formal financial channels. The key to revitalising Zimbabwe's economy lies in addressing the underlying issues that have led to the current situation. By creating a conducive environment for business growth, improving trust in our banking system and implementing sound economic policies, we can encourage businesses to deposit their cash rather than keeping it out of the formal system. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Let us learn from the past and work towards a future where Zimbabweans feel secure in their financial dealings. Together, we can build a robust economy that benefits all citizens without resorting to measures that may exacerbate the current challenges. Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. Regards Engineer Jacob Kudzayi Mutisi _*Government’s Failure To Provide Interest-Free Loans Leaves Mbare Musika Traders In Limbo*_ More than 4,000 traders who lost goods worth over US$20 million in the devastating fire at Mbare Musika in October 2024 are frustrated by the government’s failure to deliver on its promise of interest-free loans to help them recover. NewZimbabwe.com visited the traders in Mbare, where many have resorted to setting up makeshift stalls and tents to keep their businesses running. One trader, Oscar Mwedzi, said that he had received no assistance from the government despite the promises made. Said Mwedzi: We were expecting the government to support us, but we haven’t received anything yet. I came back with a very small stock because I can’t afford to sit at home. My family needs food. Another fire victim, Memory Chiguru, said the government only collected their details days after the fire, then disappeared, leaving them stranded. As a result, they had no choice but to turn to well-wishers for help.. She said: Our names were taken down two days after the fire. They asked us about our families, dependents, and the value of the goods that were burnt. But since then, no support has come our way. As for me personally, I took out a loan from the bank to restart my business. A few relatives helped me. Farai Hokonya, Deputy Director of the Civil Protection Unit (CPU), told NewZimbabwe.com that government officials are scheduled to tour the new market this week and will provide an update at that time. In the meantime, traders have raised concerns over the registration and allocation of vending stalls, particularly after a controversial list was released through a state-owned newspaper last month. The list contained numerous errors, and there are allegations that it is heavily skewed in favour of ZANU PF supporters, many of whom were not affected by the October fire that devastated the market. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production.Denford Ngadziore, chairperson of the City of Harare’s Small and Medium Enterprise Committee, said that the responsibility to allocate vending spaces at the new Mbare Musika Market lies with the council, not the government. Ngadziore further explained that while the new market is a joint project between the council and the government, it is the council’s responsibility to allocate spaces. He stressed that any allocation by others would be illegal, and priority would be given to traders who lost goods in the fire last year. _*ZIMRA Confiscates And Destroys 21 Boats On Limpopo River*_ The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) working with other border agencies on Tuesday intercepted and destroyed 21 boats which were being used to move contrabands between Zimbabwe and South Africa along the Limpopo River. Most of the boats were identified with the aid of drone surveillance technology. In a statement Zimra’s Commissioner General Ms Regina Chinamasa said they confiscated and destroyed 21 smuggling boats and 20 paddles along the Limpopo River. “This operation, a testament to Zimbabwe’s strengthened border security measures, highlights the growing impact of drone surveillance and a whole-of-government approach to tackling illicit trade,” said Ms Chinamasa. “The sting operation saw Zimra’s elite Drone Operations Team, Customs Officers, and other border security stakeholders patrolling key smuggling hotspots, providing real-time aerial intelligence that led to the swift interception and destruction of smuggling infrastructure”. She said the drones have revolutionised border security, providing unparalleled aerial surveillance and tracking smugglers in real time, even in remote areas that were previously difficult to monitor. The commissioner general added that the drones were also equipped with night vision and high-resolution cameras. She said the drones have been instrumental in identifying illegal crossing points and exposing deeply entrenched smuggling networks. “This is a game-changer in our fight against smuggling. The use of drones has allowed us to detect smuggling activities with precision and speed, ensuring that illicit goods never make it into the market,” said the Commissioner General Chinamasa. “Smuggling is not just about tax evasion—it’s an attack on Zimbabwe’s economy, local industries, and the safety of our communities. Through this collaborative approach, we are sending a strong message: Zimbabwe’s borders will not be a playground for criminals.” Ms Chinamasa said the latest intelligence-driven operation targeted five notorious smuggling corridors, informally known as Valley 1 and 2, Proof, Godfather, and Thembani. She said at these illegal crossing points, the surveillance teams uncovered a fleet of inflatable boats strategically positioned on both the South African and Zimbabwean sides; vehicles on standby, ready to transport smuggled goods inland; donkey-drawn carts, motor vehicles, and boats, being used to ferry illicit goods across the border. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. She said the revenue collector will continue to intensify aerial patrols, deployment of more drones, and increase joint border operations with security agencies to completely dismantle smuggling syndicates. Herald _*Geza’s Farm Workers Capture 19-Year Old “Spy” Taking Photos At Farmhouse*_ Workers at Blessed Runesu Geza’s farm in Sanyati on Monday apprehended a 19-year-old man, suspected of spying after he was caught taking pictures of their boss’ farmhouse. The young man, who identified himself as Nigel Murwira, was swiftly handed over to the police in Sanyati for further questioning. At the time of the incident, Geza, a war veteran and ZANU PF central committee member was not present at the farm. However, farm manager Isaiah Lozane told NewsDay that their suspicions were aroused when they noticed a car with South African registration plates dropping off the young man near the property. Said Lozane: He started shooting pictures of the main house, and that’s when we confronted him. The young man gave incoherent answers about his mission. At first, he claimed he was looking for employment as a general labourer but after interrogation he said he had been sent by people he was not at liberty to name to take pictures of the farm structures and get US$200 as payment. The suspected spy reportedly attempted to flee during interrogation and was injured while climbing the perimeter fence. Added Lozane: He later claimed that he had been picked up at Patchway along Kadoma-Sanyati Road by unidentified men to Geza’s farm where his mission was to take pictures in return for $200. He told me that along the way the men in the Honda Fit were being directed by someone on the phone because none of us knew where the farm was. The men in the Honda Fit, realising that Murwira was under arrest, sped off in a hurry, disappearing into the distance. Meanwhile, Geza, the former Sanyati legislator, finds himself at the centre of a political storm. He has been clashing with powerful figures within his own party who are pushing for an extension of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term until 2030. Geza, a staunch war veteran, is leading a faction that opposes the term extension, while Mnangagwa’s loyalists have been rallying against him, calling for his expulsion from the party and even arrest. Newsday _*Zimbabwe Makes First Payments to BIPPA-Protected White Farmers*_ The Zimbabwean government has started compensating former landowners whose farms were taken during the Fast-track Land Reform Programme in the early 2000s. These landowners are protected by Bilateral Investment Protection and Promotion Agreements (BIPPAs). Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube said that funds have already been distributed from a US$20 million allocation in the 2024 National Budget to compensate these farmers. Ncube described the payments as a historic step forward and an important part of Zimbabwe’s Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process. He said: This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. I am pleased to announce that the compensation process has begun. We believe that this process crucial for building trust, honouring our commitments, and ensuring consistency with our Constitution as we address Zimbabwe’s debt challenge. According to the Ministry of Finance, the payments towards the compensation of investors under BIPPA protection began in the second week of January 2025. Payments are being made to the claimants’ Bank accounts of choice. The Zimbabwean Treasury has announced that only claimants from countries with BIPPAs signed and ratified before the 2000 Land Reform Programme are eligible for compensation. In total, 94 farms have been approved for compensation, with claimants hailing from Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and former Yugoslavia. The approved farms include: Denmark: 6 farms valued at US$13.4 million Germany: 14 farms valued at US$41.0 million Netherlands: 46 farms valued at US$88.2 million Switzerland: 27 farms valued at US$27.0 million Former Yugoslavia: 1 farm valued at US$3.3 million This brings the total to 95 farms, valued at US$145.9 million. As for the farmers to be compensated, there are: Denmark: 5 farmers Germany: 7 farmers Netherlands: 33 farmers Switzerland: 10 farmers Former Yugoslavia: 1 farmer This totals 56 farmers set to receive compensation. The announcement was warmly welcomed by the ambassadors of Germany, the Netherlands, and Switzerland, based in Harare, who jointly expressed their support for this historic move. They said: The framework established by the Government of Zimbabwe leading to the full compensation of affected BIPPA farmers protected by Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreements, is indeed a historic achievement. We commend the Government’s allocation of funds in the National Budget as of 2024 to make the compensation a reality. Several affected investors have received initial payouts, and an emerging sense of closure exists. It marks a significant milestone, and we consider it a very encouraging step towards a comprehensive and fair settlement for farmers and investors in Zimbabwe, be it in terms of financial compensation or land tenure. Now, it is important for the Government to keep this positive momentum. The President of the African Development Bank Group and the Champion of the Zimbabwe Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution, Akinwumi Adesina said: This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The compensation demonstrates the Government’s goodwill and commitment to building trust in the process and improving investor confidence in the country. The progress Zimbabwe has made, the commitment and resilience it is showing, calls for support from development partners to facilitate the country’s effort in implementing on going reforms and to provide the much-needed cushion to particularly the vulnerable members of the population. The compensation of these investors is one of the key reforms under the Structured Dialogue Platform on the country’s Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process. In December 2022, the Government of Zimbabwe launched a Structured Dialogue Platform to engage with its creditors and development partners on economic and governance reforms. This initiative aims to support the Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process. The Ministry of Finance said that after the disbursement of the US$20 million allocated in the 2024 National Budget for BIPPA-protected farms, the remaining US$125.9 million will be paid through a multi-year payment plan. This plan will see fiscal allocations made in the Annual National Budgets from 2025 to 2028. _*Explainer: Why Zimbabwe Paid White Farmers US$20 Million Compensation For Land Reform Seizures – All The Details*_ Why Zimbabwe Is Paying White Farmers US$20 Million – Explained The Zimbabwean government has begun compensating farmers affected by the 2000 Land Reform Programme. The payments, totalling US$20 million, are part of a commitment to honour Bilateral Investment Protection and Promotion Agreements (BIPPAs). Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube confirmed the development, stating: “I am pleased to announce that the compensation process has begun. We believe that this process is crucial for building trust, honouring our commitments, and ensuring consistency with our Constitution as we address Zimbabwe’s debt challenge.” The funds were allocated in the 2024 National Budget, with payments starting in January 2025. Who Is Getting Compensated? Only farmers from countries that signed and ratified BIPPAs before the Land Reform Programme are eligible. The affected farms belong to citizens from Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and former Yugoslavia. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. A total of 94 farms have been approved for compensation. According to government data: Denmark: 6 farms (US$13.4 million) Germany: 14 farms (US$14 million) Netherlands: 46 farms (US$88.2 million) Switzerland: 27 farms (US$27 million) Former Yugoslavia: 1 farm (US$3.3 million) Ambassadors from Germany, the Netherlands, and Switzerland welcomed the payments, saying: “The framework established by the Government of Zimbabwe leading to the full compensation of affected BIPPA farmers is indeed a historic achievement. We commend the Government’s allocation of funds in the National Budget as of 2024 to make the compensation a reality.” They also urged Zimbabwe to maintain this “positive momentum.” Why Is Zimbabwe Paying Compensation Now? The payments are a key part of Zimbabwe’s efforts to clear its international debt and re-engage with global financial institutions. The compensation aligns with Section 295 (2) of the Constitution, which states: “Any person whose agricultural land was acquired by the State before the effective date, and whose property rights at the time were guaranteed or protected by an agreement concluded by the Government of Zimbabwe with the Government of another country, is entitled to compensation.” Dr Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group and champion of Zimbabwe’s Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process, said: “The compensation demonstrates the Government’s goodwill and commitment to building trust in the process and improving investor confidence in the country.” Zimbabwe is currently implementing a multi-year payment plan to settle outstanding compensation claims, with US$125.9 million still to be paid by 2028. What Happens Next? The compensation of BIPPA-protected farms is part of broader economic reforms. The payments fall under the Land Tenure Reforms and Compensation for Former Farm Owners (FFOs) programme, co-chaired by Zimbabwe, Switzerland, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The government has set aside another US$20 million in the 2025 National Budget to continue the payments. President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reaffirmed his commitment to resolving Zimbabwe’s arrears and debt situation, stating during a High-Level Structured Dialogue in November 2024: “Zimbabwe remains committed to the implementation of reforms underpinning the Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process, in line with the country’s National Development Strategy 1.” The government hopes that successfully clearing arrears and compensating affected investors will help unlock new international funding opportunities. _*ZACC to launch National Anti-Corruption Strategy 2…Yet Nothing To Show For Anti-Corruption Strategy 1*_ The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) will this year launch the National Anti-Corruption Strategy 2 as it upscales efforts to combat corruption. The launch follows the successful implementation of the first strategy, which sought to curb corruption and restore public confidence in government institutions. ZACC’s acting executive secretary, Charity Matumbi said, “We came 21 out of 100, but some of the variables were not indicative of our work as ZAAC. These include strides that we have made, for example, in asset recovery and forfeiture as well as money laundering.” Meanwhile, Zimbabwe has improved its corruption perception rankings as evidenced by the 2024 Corruption Perception Index Report released this Tuesday. “This is a result of National Anti-Corruption Strategy 1 launched a few years back, but we still need to see more being done, including public participation in fighting corruption,” Transparency International Zimbabwe’s executive director, Tafadzwa Chikumbu said. “All sectors must come on board to ensure a corruption-free society,” Civic Society representative Bishop Albert Chikuni said. The National Anti-Corruption Strategy One, implemented over the past few years, included initiatives aimed at improving public sector accountability, streamlining procurement processes, and establishing whistleblower protection. _*RBZ Goes After Chivhayo’s Cash Stash…Or Will They?*_ The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has raised alarm over millions of dollars lying idle in cash deposit boxes across the country, a growing trend that is starving the economy of much-needed liquidity. While the central bank did not mention names, its latest statement appears to be aimed at controversial businessman and Zanu PF loyalist Wicknell Chivhayo, along with his associates like gold dealer Scott Sakupwanya, who frequently flaunt vast amounts of foreign currency on social media. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Chivayo, a self-styled tycoon with a well-documented history of fraud and shady dealings, has become infamous for his ostentatious displays of wealth. He has splurged on an extravagant fleet of luxury vehicles—ranging from Rolls Royces to Bentleys and Lamborghinis—some of which he has gifted to musicians, socialites, and influencers in exchange for public endorsements of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030 agenda. Despite his extravagant lifestyle, Chivhayo has never publicly declared his sources of income or provided proof of financial legitimacy, fueling widespread speculation about his dealings. He has previously been implicated in high-profile scandals, including a multi-million-dollar Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) tender fraud case in which he was accused of receiving $5 million for a power project that never materialized. Announcing his 2025 Monetary Policy Statement, RBZ Governor John Mushayavanhu cautioned against the growing trend of businesses and individuals hoarding large sums of cash outside the formal banking system. “There are manufacturers who are supplying goods to the informal market but are not banking their proceeds. They are keeping these monies in their cash boxes, which is not in line with the Anti-Money Laundering Act. The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) will not just watch but will dismantle this practice,” Mushayavanhu stated. The central bank governor emphasized that stockpiling cash presents unnecessary risks, especially in light of recent increases in prepaid credit limits and attractive interest rates on savings accounts. “The issue here is that robbers have been targeting buses, especially cross-border traders, and stealing their cash. There is no need to keep large sums of money in cash when one can simply upload their funds onto a card, with limits now increased to US$1 million. We have also adjusted interest rates on savings accounts, which makes banking more attractive,” he explained. To instill confidence in the local banking sector and encourage a culture of saving, the RBZ has implemented incremental increases in interest rates on deposits. However, whether the central bank will take concrete action against individuals like Chivayo—who continue to operate outside the formal financial system while openly displaying unexplained wealth—remains to be seen. _*Mohadi In Fresh Health Scare*_ Vice President Kembo Mohadi made a rare public appearance at the National Heroes Acre on Monday for the burial of national hero Tinaye Chigudu, but his frail posture, masked face, and unsteady gait have reignited concerns about his deteriorating health. Dressed in a dark navy suit and wearing a black face mask, his security detail closely assisted Mohadi, his slow and deliberate movements reflecting physical strain. His use of a mask—despite COVID-19 restrictions being largely lifted—has fueled speculation about a possible respiratory condition or another undisclosed ailment. Mohadi’s health has long been a subject of concern, with reports of frequent medical trips abroad and past incidents where he collapsed at public functions. In 2023, he fainted while delivering a lecture at the University of Zimbabwe, appearing disoriented before requesting water and losing consciousness. The same year, security agents allegedly forced journalists to delete footage of him collapsing at a Zanu PF campaign rally in Gutu, Masvingo. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. His declining health has also led to reduced public engagement. _*Heavy rains expected*_ Some regions in the country are expected to register heavy rains, the Meteorological Services Department of Zimbabwe (MSDZ) has disclosed. In a weather forecast outlook released recently, MSDZ said the season is still on. Meanwhile, the Southern Region continues to receive heavy rains this season, with records from yesterday showing many stations getting above 50 mm. Morgenster (Henry Murray) got the highest at 95 mm, Utsinda Christian College in Gutu 93 mm, Gutu High 80 mm and Nyazvidzi 20 mm. Masvingo Urban also received high rainfall with Rujeko Secondary 80,6 mm,*Don Bosco 51 mm. Chiredzi Gvt recorded 50 mm. Gweru received some rains with Sandara Primary recording 24 mm. In Chipinge, Gaza High and Chipinge College of Horticulture recorded 11 mm and 8 mm respectively. Beitbridge got little rainfall with St Mary’s getting 1 mm, Vhembe high 2mm, Beitbridge Mission 1mm. _*’Ledger fees’ major revenue source for Zim banks*_ With little money to lend, Zimbabwe’s banks continue to make most of their money from bank fees, with asset revaluations boosting their books. In 2024, fees made up 22% of banks’ income. The core role of banks — lending — made just 13.46% of banks’ income. Small businesses, women and young people are getting only a fraction of Zimbabwe’s bank loans. In December 2024:• Just 7.5% of bank loans went to SMEs • Women got less than 7% of all loans • Only 3.8% of loans went to young people. _*Jabulani Sibanda Resurfaces*_ Notorious former war veterans’ leader and longtime Mugabe loyalist, Jabulani Sibanda, has resurfaced in Zimbabwe’s ongoing political turmoil. Now serving as the ZANU PF Bulawayo provincial chairperson, Sibanda has waded into the intensifying power struggle between President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his deputy, Constantino Chiwenga. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. While avoiding explicit factional alignment, Sibanda has raised concerns over the growing disunity within Zimbabwe, particularly among war veterans. He warns that internal fragmentation could leave the country vulnerable to Western influence and potential recolonization. Speaking at the launch of the Presidential War Veterans Fund, he cautioned: “This is the time to unite. The whites will be coming soon. United States President Donald Trump has announced withdrawal from some institutions under the United Nations. Even tomorrow, due to their strength, they can re-coloniseAfrica. This is the danger that we are facing in Africa. We are full of resources, and we are in danger from countries full of nuclear weapons and injections.” Sibanda was one of Robert Mugabe’s most vocal and aggressive enforcers during the early 2000s, leading the infamous 2007 One Million Man March in support of Mugabe’s continued rule. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. _*South Africans kiss Pick n Pay stores goodbye*_ South Africa's Pick n Pay retailer is facing mounting challenges as it continues to shut down both company-owned and franchise stores across the country, with many South Africans bidding farewell to their local outlets. The closures come as part of a broader attempt by the retailer to restore its financial health, amid a period of poor sales performance and shifting market dynamics. On 4 February 2025, Pick n Pay released its trading update for the 45 weeks ending on 5 January 2025, revealing a 0.1% decline in sales across South Africa. While the retailer's internal selling price inflation stood at 2.4%, the sales numbers were heavily affected by the closure of 32 supermarkets over the period, including 24 company-owned stores and 8 franchise outlets. The closures are part of a larger strategy, which CEO Sean Summers introduced after taking the reins from former CEO Pieter Boone. In early 2024, Summers announced plans to close or convert 112 stores across South Africa in a bid to streamline operations and improve financial performance. "The strategy involves closing 35 underperforming stores and converting 70 outlets to the Boxer brand," Summers explained, noting that some stores were located in areas experiencing demographic shifts or where shopping center issues made them unviable. "We will close and get rid of the stores that have no future." This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. _*Woman loses ZAR78k in vehicle registration scam*_ A 24-year-old man appeared in court for allegedly defrauding a local woman of ZAR78 200 in a botched vehicle registration deal. Bekithemba Muzenda of Beitbridge was arraigned before the Harare magistrate Ethel Chichera on Saturday facing a fraud charge. He was remanded in custody to Wednesday pending continuation of his bail consideration. Prosecutor Dzidzai Josiah told the court that Muzenda misrepresented to Kelvin Chikomo, a 38-year-old resident of Kuwadzana 1, that he could facilitate the clearance and registration of her Toyota Land Cruiser in Zimbabwe. Resultantly, Chikomo allegedly handed over ZAR78 200 to Muzenda who assured her that the process would be completed within three days but failed to deliver during the agreed period. Chikomo later filed a police report, leading to Muzenda’s arrest. _*South African company offers a cool R100,000 REWARD after 2 Zimbabwean drivers stole their trucks and vanished*_ A logistics company based in eMalahleni (Witbank) is offering a substantial R100,000 reward for information leading to the recovery of two stolen side tipper trucks and the arrest of two Zimbabwean nationals suspected of the theft. The company is appealing to the public for assistance in locating the missing vehicles and bringing the alleged perpetrators to justice. The South African Police Service (SAPS) is actively investigating the case and has warned that anyone found aiding or harbouring the suspects could face serious legal consequences. The theft occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning, when two truck drivers, identified as Tendai Luke Tarwirei Nemukuyu, 22, and Collen Mudhala, 41, allegedly made off with the vehicles. Both suspects, Zimbabwean nationals employed by the company, were entrusted with parking the trucks in the company yard from Friday until Monday. However, at approximately 01:00 on Saturday, the drivers reportedly drove away with the trucks, subsequently deactivating their tracking systems. The tracking devices last recorded the trucks’ location at the company’s premises in Witbank before the signals were disrupted. The stolen vehicles include a 2022 Scania G460, white in colour, with a grey Trailmax trailer, and a second truck with blue Trailmax trailers. _*Starved, Tortured & Forgotten: Shocking truth behind Stilfontein Mine Deaths exposed as police help Zama Zama boss Tiger to escape, 75 bodies decompose*_ Johannesburg – A grim picture is emerging from the North West province in neighbouring South Africa as authorities struggle to identify the bodies of 75 illegal miners recovered from an abandoned mine shaft in Stilfontein. Adding to the despair, the search and rescue operation for two zama zamas (illegal miners) trapped in a Roodepoort mine has been suspended due to hazardous conditions. The bodies, badly decomposed, were retrieved from Buffelsfontein Gold Mine Shaft 11 in Stilfontein. Two additional miners died later in hospital, bringing the total number of deaths to 80. Despite authorities’ appeals, only 18 families have come forward to assist in the identification process. Police spokesperson Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone stated on Monday, “A total of 18 samples have been taken since the beginning of the identification process last week.” While DNA samples have been obtained from these families, all from Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Mozambique, and Malawi, it is yet to be confirmed if they are related to any of the deceased. The families came forward after authorities announced plans to bury the unknown bodies as paupers. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Mokgwabone urged those who haven’t heard from their next of kin, particularly those who were working in and around Khuma and Stilfontein as illegal miners, to contact the investigating team at the Stilfontein police station on 13 and 14 February between 08:00 and 15:00. He added that those who come forward are requested to bring official identification for DNA sampling. Police revealed the horrific conditions endured by the illegal miners, known as zama zamas, including torture, assault, and starvation, even though large quantities of food were lowered into the shaft. Authorities have identified James Neo “Tiger” Tshoaeli, a wanted fugitive and alleged zama zama kingpin from Lesotho, as responsible for hoarding food and brutalising miners. Tshoaeli managed a brief escape from custody after resurfacing from the shaft. 4 police officers have since been arrested for allegedly helping him to escape after being bribed by the Zama Zama ‘boss’. Last week, Health Department MEC Sello Lehari announced that out of the 80 bodies, only five had been positively identified. Initially, it was reported that two of these bodies were South African nationals, who have now been identified and returned to their families. Meanwhile, in Gauteng’s Roodepoort, the families of two illegal miners trapped at Rand Lease Mine remain hopeful despite the Emergency Management Services (EMS) suspending the search and rescue operation until further notice. The two zama zamas have been trapped underground since Saturday, 8 February, and were heard shouting for help on Sunday, 9 February. The oxygen levels in the mine are allegedly dangerously low, at about 14%. A distraught woman, whose husband remains trapped underground, refused to speak to the media, overwhelmed with grief. Zibuse Memela, the chairman of the Jerusalem informal settlement, told Daily Sun that this is not the first time miners from their community have attempted to access that particular shaft. “They tried several times and failed. They tried again this weekend, and after two had gone down, they realised they couldn’t make it up. I’m told other illegal miners tried to rescue them, but it was impossible. That’s when I was informed, and the police were notified,” he said. EMS spokesman Robert Mulaudzi addressed the media, explaining that the search and rescue operation was called off for now due to safety concerns. “We went down 70 metres; we reached the platform where there’s a hole leading to makeshift stairs, but that area is extremely dangerous for the rescuers, which led to the decision to terminate the operation. We are looking at other options to see if we can access the site using different routes, but with the maps we have, that’s the only area we can safely enter,” he said. Mulaudzi further said, “We’ve been told we might get further information from the community, so for now, we’ve decided to stop. We will try to find another way to locate the other manhole that they might have been using, and from there, we can assess if we can access the same shaft from the other side.” This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Mulaudzi further said that during their operation on Monday, 10 February, no voices from the trapped miners were detected underground. “At the moment, there’s no response or any voices like we heard yesterday when we were here. We couldn’t reach their location because of the obstruction, which is also dangerous for the rescuers. We don’t know what might happen if we attempt to push through that area,” he said. _*Zuma orders daughter to apologise for online rant against MK Party secretary-general Shivambu*_ In his capacity as MK Party (MKP) leader, Jacob Zuma has demanded an apology from Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla – his daughter – after she posted remarks on social media about the party’s secretary-general, Floyd Shivambu. She has since been told to issue a public apology or face disciplinary action. In a series of X posts, Zuma-Sambudla lashed out at Shivambu, describing him as “useless” and the “worst thing that happened to MK”, drawing the wrath of the party in the process. In a party statement, MKP said it “acknowledges the recent public posts on X made by MK member, Commander Duduzile Zuma”. “These posts are insulting towards the secretary-general of uMkhonto weSizwe Party, constituting a direct violation of the party’s disciplinary code of conduct. Such actions are unacceptable, divisive, denigrating, and offensive. They undermine the principles of unity, respect, and discipline that are fundamental to the values of uMkhonto weSizwe Party,” it stated. It said Zuma issued a directive demanding that Zuma-Sambudla “issue an unconditional public apology to the secretary-general, the president, members, supporters of uMkhonto weSizwe, and all the people of South Africa”. It also ordered that she “extend formal apologies to all structures she serves in or leads, including the Southern Caucus of the Pan-African Parliament”. “These apologies must be made immediately. Following this, an internal disciplinary process will be initiated in accordance with the uMkhonto weSizwe Party constitution, code of conduct and all relevant prescripts,” the party said. “Failure to comply with this directive will result in immediate consequences, including the summary termination of Commander Duduzile Zuma’s membership in uMkhonto weSizwe Party and her recall from all party responsibilities.” Shivambu retweeted the party statement, but issued no response in his personal capacity. _*Super Bowl Halftime Show dancer gets NFL lifetime ban for displaying Palestinian flag during performance*_ A dancer in Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show has been banned for life from all National Football League stadiums and events for waving a combined Palestinian-Sudanese flag with the words “Gaza” and “Sudan” during the rapper’s performance on Sunday night at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. The NFL said the African American protester, who has not been identified, concealed the flag and unveiled it without prior knowledge by the show’s production team. “We commend security for quickly detaining the individual who displayed the flag,” the NFL said in a released statement. “He was a part of the 400-member field cast. The individual hid the item on his person and unveiled it late in the show. No one involved with the production was aware of the individual’s intent.” The league added that the individual “will banned for life from all NFL stadiums and events.” Toward the end of Lamar’s performance — after his track “Not Like Us” and right before his final song “TV Off” — the dancer waved the flag while standing on top of a car used as a prop in the performance. The car, a Buick Grand National GNX, inspired the name of Lamar’s latest album, “GNX,” and it was a key prop in the rapper’s halftime show performance. “Sudan” and “Gaza” were written on the white sections of the flag held by the protester. A heart was drawn next to “Sudan” and a solidarity fist was depicted next to the word “Gaza.” The dancer, who wore a black ensemble matching the other dancers on stage, also jumped off the car and fled the stage while still displaying the flag. He waved it while standing on the ground near other dancers before security personnel tackled and detained him. He was then removed from the field and escorted from the stadium. New Orleans police told USA Today that as of Monday, the performer has not been formally arrested or charged. The incident took place a day after three more Israeli hostages were freed from Hamas captivity in Gaza, as part of a ceasefire agreement in the war between the terrorist organization and Israel, and while a civil war rages on in Sudan. The New Orleans Police Department said it “continues to work with NFL and the halftime production team to ascertain any affiliation the individual may have had with the halftime show.” This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The entertainment company behind the halftime show, Roc Nation, said in a statement that “the act by the individual was neither planned nor part of the production and was never in any rehearsal.” _*China strikes back with $14bn in retaliatory tariffs on US goods*_ China has imposed retaliatory tariffs on $14 billion worth of US goods, escalating trade tensions with Washington. The move follows the US decision to levy an additional 10% tariff on Chinese products, which former President Donald Trump described as the start of a renewed trade offensive. China’s measures target US exports such as liquefied natural gas, crude oil, coal, farm equipment, and automotive goods with tariffs between 10% and 15%. Additionally, Beijing has launched an antitrust probe into US tech firms and restricted exports of key rare earth metals crucial for defense and green energy industries. Analysts suggest China may be better prepared for a trade standoff this time, though financial markets had initially hoped for negotiations. The US Trade Representative’s upcoming report on China’s compliance with a 2020 trade deal, due April 1, could trigger further tensions. _*Trump attacks South Africa again*_ Summary • Trump says 'certain classes' treated very badly in South Africa • Trump offers refugee resettlement to white Afrikaners • Attacks draw ridicule from some white South Africans JOHANNESBURG- U.S. President Donald Trump's attacks on what he alleges is South Africa's mistreatment of its white minority are being met with mockery on social media by some white South Africans poking fun at their own privilege. Trump said last week that "certain classes of people" were being treated "very badly" in South Africa, referring to a bill signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa aimed at addressing racial disparities in land ownership. He then cut aid to South Africa and offered refugee resettlement in the United States to Afrikaners, the descendants of early European settlers, stating they were "victims of unjust racial discrimination". "USA, USA, USA!" comedian Bouwer Bosch chants in a TikTok video as he tells a friend he is moving to the United States. "Why did you get refugee status?" the friend asks. "Cause I'm white, bro!" he responds, before adding that he will be back to his South African beach house in the summer, to attend a golf tournament and go to AfrikaBurn - South Africa's answer to the Burning Man festival. In an Instagram video titled "A day in the life of an oppressed white South African", a woman lies yawning in bed. "My husband brought me an iced coffee today because the most oppressive thing about this country is actually the sun," she says. South African-born billionaire Elon Musk, who is now a key adviser to Trump, has amplified the president's attacks on South Africa, writing in a post on his social media platform X last week that the country has "openly racist ownership laws".