Wednesday 12 February 2025 *AFTERNOON 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* *Chiwenga Under Siege* *Mnangagwa Fires Chiwenga’s Relative From Ministerial Position, As The Going Gets Tough, Replaces Her With His Close Ally* *Hands off the Constitution – ZANU PF told* *Geza Accused Of Seizing Harare Safari Lodge And Failing To Pay US$1.5 Million* *Zimbabwe begins compensation of BIPPA protected ex-white farmers with US$20 million set aside in 2024 National Budget; AfDB says payouts will improve investor confidence* *When news is stressful, how do you balance staying informed with ‘doomscrolling’?* *LIST: ZRP releases names of drug barons and pushers it has arrested* *High Court Rejects Welshman Ncube’s Application On CCC’s Parliamentary Leadership Changes* *Security guard found dead at Council offices… Harare City Council bosses now threaten each other with DEATH!* *Government forces EVERY business in Zimbabwe to use swipe machines with immediate effect, companies to report ZiG* *UN agent backs Ramaphosa’s land ‘grab’ as step to address racial land imbalance* *Zimsec Announces 2025 O Level and A Level Exam Fees and Closing Dates* *Police hunt for counterfeit products company directors* *THE DETAILS WITH IGNITE MEDIA ZIMBABWE* _*Chiwenga Under Siege*_ Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has suffered a significant setback after President Emmerson Mnangagwa dismissed his relative from government on Tuesday. Mashonaland East Provincial Affairs Minister, Apollonia Munzverengwi, was fired just a day after public clashes erupted between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga’s supporters at the National Heroes Acre. Legal practitioner Itayi Ndudzo swiftly replaced her. Munzverengwi, a well-known ally of Chiwenga, played a crucial role in mobilizing support for the vice president, who is widely believed to be positioning himself for a challenge against Mnangagwa ahead of the next ZANU PF elective congress. We are Ignite Media Zimbabwe. Government insiders suggest that Munangagwa’s decision to axe Munzverengwi is part of a broader strategy to weaken Chiwenga’s influence, particularly in Mashonaland East—an influential province in ZANU PF’s power struggles. The move mirrors previous purges that targeted military-backed figures who had helped Mnangagwa seize power from Robert Mugabe in the 2017 coup. While the official statement on Munzverengwi’s dismissal cites constitutional provisions, political analysts argue that Mnangagwa is consolidating his grip on power amid speculation that Chiwenga may challenge him before the 2028 elections. The vice president has recently maintained a low public profile, further fueling rumours of a deepening rift between the two leaders. _*Mnangagwa Fires Chiwenga’s Relative From Ministerial Position, As The Going Gets Tough, Replaces Her With His Close Ally*_ PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa on Tuesday sacked Minister of State for Mashonaland East province Apollonia Munzverengi, who is closely related to his deputy Constantino Chiwenga. Munzverengi was immediately replaced by Itai Ndudzo according to two statements signed by Mnangagwa’s Chief Secretary Martin Rushwaya, one which announced her dismissal and the other her successor. “His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Cde. Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa has, in terms of Section 108(1a) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, removed Hon. Apollonia Munzverengwi from the Office of Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mashonaland East Province with immediate effect,” read Munzverengi’s dismissal. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. With factional battle lines drawn, Munzverengi becomes yet another victim in Zanu PF’s ongoing factional fights. “His Excellency, the President of Zimbabwe, Cde, Dr. E.D Mnangagwa has in terms of Section 104 Subsection 1 of the constitution of Zimbabwe appointed Hon. Itayi Ndudzo as Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mashonaland East with immediate effect,” read Ndudzo’s appointment. Mnangagwa and his allies are seeking to extend his second and final term by an illegal two years against the dictates of Zimbabwe’s constitution. Efforts to keep him in office beyond his mandate are being continuously fought by those within the party who favour Chiwenga, a former army commander, to take over. Mnangagwa and Chiwenga’s supporters recently clashed at the Heroes Acre in a public spat that exposed how divided Zanu PF is getting. Chants in favour of both leaders taking over were heard as Mnangagwa officiated at the burial of national hero Tinaye Chigudu. Despite getting endorsements from women and youths, a section of liberation war veterans has refused to take part in what it described as the mutilation of Zimbabwe’s constitution. _*Hands off the Constitution – ZANU PF told*_ OPPOSITION party leader Elizabeth Valerio has criticised the ruling party ZANU PF for pushing for the amendment of the constitution to allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to extend his stay in office. While one faction of the Zanu PF is pushing for the suspension of the 2028 elections to enable President Mnangagwa to remain in power until 2030, another backing his vice Constantino Chiwenga insists on maintaining the constitutionally stipulated two-term limit. The ruling party faction has reportedly enlisted some opposition Members of Parliament to undermine the constitution and exploit the current disarray within the opposition to push for the term extension. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. United Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA) leader Valerio emphasised that ZANU PF’s internal disputes should not interfere with the country’s constitution. “The government needs to respect the Constitution of Zimbabwe. We do not, in any way, want to see a Zimbabwe where the rights of the people are being eroded. In 2028, we expect to go to the polls. “We expect to have the opportunity to register our candidates and to elect a new president for Zimbabwe. That is our constitutional right, and we are urging those in ZANU PF to keep their factional disputes to themselves. Do not involve the nation, and do not disrespect our constitutional document. It is the right of citizens to choose their leaders,” said Valerio. Despite Mnangagwa refusing to endorse the extension of his rule, his supporters have been rallying to push for the constitutional amendment. He, however, has not publicly condemned the actions of this faction within ZANU PF. Valerio warned that the country should not repeat the mistake of being drawn into ZANU PF’s internal politics. “It is quite unfortunate that Zimbabwe keeps going down the same path. In 2017, we were presented with an opportunity for a new future. Now, we are hearing this new mantra saying we must keep the president in power because he is doing such a great job. This is why we are launching the Community Wall Initiative. We are covering the entire country because we want to put it on record: no one wants 2030. “If you speak to the people, there are hundreds gathered here today, and they will tell you clearly that they want something different every time they go to the polls. We are no longer interested in this. As UZA, we will ensure that the voice of the citizens is on record. We will not get involved in this factional fight,” she said. _*Geza Accused Of Seizing Harare Safari Lodge And Failing To Pay US$1.5 Million*_ War veteran and ZANU PF Central Committee member Blessed Runesu Geza is facing a civil case over his alleged seizure of Harare Safari Lodge. As reported by The Herald, the case stems from an alleged failure to pay US$1.5 million for the property, which he is accused of acquiring in 2020 from former owner Brett Allan McDonald. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Geza reportedly claims that the land is State property, and therefore unsellable, arguing that the sale agreement is invalid. The terms of the deal required him to purchase McDonald’s entire shareholding in the lodge for US$1.5 million, with payment due within two weeks. However, Geza is accused of not paying anything since the agreement was made, despite taking up residence at the lodge and using its assets. McDonald has sought legal recourse to reclaim the property, with the case now escalated to the High Court. Geza’s legal team maintains that the agreement is void, asserting that the property was acquired by the State in 2005, and that the sale of shares was unlawful. The dispute continues, with a pre-trial conference held in May last year failing to resolve the issue. The court has ruled that the case must proceed to trial to determine ownership of the property, the validity of the agreement, and whether McDonald lawfully cancelled the deal. In the meantime, McDonald’s lawyer, Simbarashe Chigumira, has expressed concerns about threats made against him by Geza. Said Chigumira: So, our client entered into an agreement of sale for shares in a company. In terms of that agreement, Mr Geza was supposed to pay the amount of US$1 500 000 within 14 days of signing the agreement. The parties signed the agreement in December 2020, but Mr Geza did not manage to raise the purchase price for the shares. Another term of the agreement was that upon purchasing the shares, Mr Geza would consequently take over the Harare Safari Lodge, which is currently housed at Lake Chivero. But despite failing to raise the purchase price, Mr Geza took occupation of the lodge without our client’s consent. Our client advises us that Mr Geza forcibly removed his staff from the property and that he’s even occupied the primary residence, which belongs to our client, and which was never part of the agreement. _*Zimbabwe begins compensation of BIPPA protected ex-white farmers with US$20 million set aside in 2024 National Budget; AfDB says payouts will improve investor confidence*_ FINANCE and Investment Promotion Minister, Mthuli Ncube has announced the beginning of compensation payments to farmers under the US$20 million facility set aside in the 2024 National Budget. The compensation exercise targets investors protected by the Bilateral Investment Protection and Promotion Agreements (BIPPAs) whose investments were affected by the Land Reform Program in 2000. The claimants under the category are from Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland and former Yugoslavia. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. “I am pleased to announce that the compensation process has begun. We believe that this process is crucial for building Trust, honoring commitments and ensuring consistency with our Constitution as we address Zimbabwe’s debt challenge. “The payments towards the compensation of investors under BIPPA Protection began in the second week of January 2025. Payments is being made to the claimants’ bank accounts of choice,” said Ncube. The envoys of Germany, the Netherlands and Switzerland jointly welcomed the announcement describing it as a giant step bringing a sense of closure among the affected parties. “The framework established by the Government of Zimbabwe leading to the full compensation of affected BIPPA farmers protected by BIPPA 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,” the ambassadors said in a statement. The President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the champion of the Zimbabwe Arrears clearance and Debt resolution, Dr Akinwumi Adesina hailed the milestone achievement and implored more development partners to support the initiative. 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 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 efforts in implementing ongoing reforms and to provide the much-needed cushion to particularly the vulnerable members of the population,” he said. In 2022, the Government of Zimbabwe established a Structured Dialogue Platform with all its creditors and development partners to institutionalize engagement on economic and governance reforms to underpin the Arrears clearance and Debt Resolution Process. _*When news is stressful, how do you balance staying informed with ‘doomscrolling’?*_ It all begins innocently – a late-night peek at your favourite social media site before bed. You catch a headline that grabs your attention with “breaking news” you can’t afford to miss. Like following digital breadcrumbs, one click leads to another. Before you know it, you’re tumbling down a rabbit hole of endless updates and emotionally charged social media posts. Two hours later, your shoulders are tense, your stomach is in knots, but you can’t put your phone down. This endless scrolling through bad news – known as “doomscrolling” – sneaks up on us. It’s important to stay in touch with what’s happening in the world. Being informed helps us make better decisions, engage meaningfully in our communities, and respond effectively to changes that affect our lives and those around us. But just like a healthy diet, we must be smart about our news consumption to avoid it taking a toll on our health. The good news is there are proven ways to stay informed without letting it take over your life. Research shows setting clear boundaries around your news consumption can make a huge difference. So, how can you strike the right balance? How to set boundaries with news consumption It’s worth considering why you feel compelled to stay constantly informed. Ask yourself: “will this information change what I can do about it?”. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Often, we scroll not because the information is actionable, but because we are trying to gain a sense of control in an uncertain world. Research shows scrolling through negative news can disrupt your sleep and increase anxiety. To make sure your media consumption is intentional, there are a few steps you can take. Be picky with the news sources you read. Choose a few trusted outlets instead of letting social media algorithms decide what you see. It’s like sticking to a balanced meal plan, but for your mind. While engaging with the news, pay close attention to how you’re feeling. When you notice physical signs of anxiety or emotional distress, that is your cue to take a break. Set aside time earlier in the day with clear boundaries around your news consumption: maybe with your morning coffee or during your lunch break, whatever works for your schedule. Consider implementing a “digital sunset”, too. This is a cut-off time for news and social media, ideally an hour or two before bedtime, to give your mind time to process what you have learned without disrupting your sleep. The world will always be there, but you will be in a better head space to process what is happening. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. You don’t have to feel helpless Taking breaks from consuming news is not burying your head in the sand – it’s practising self care. Studies have shown that people who set healthy boundaries around news consumption are often better equipped to engage meaningfully on important issues and take constructive action when needed. When you check the news, be an active consumer. Instead of endless scrolling: - choose one or two in-depth articles to read thoroughly - discuss the news with colleagues, friends and family to process your feelings - look for solution-focused news stories that highlight positive change - take meaningful action on issues you care about. There are also various apps and tools that can help you form healthier digital habits. Productivity apps use various approaches to help you stay focused, providing ways to snap you out of mindless scrolling. News curation apps and apps that allow you to save articles to read later can help you establish a balanced news diet, and remove the urgent need to read everything immediately. Many smartphones now come equipped with screen time management features, such as Apple’s Screen Time or Android’s Digital Wellbeing. You can use these to monitor your scrolling habits and to manage how much time you spend on social media or news apps. One useful feature is to block apps from use during certain times of day or after you’ve used them for a set amount of time. Stay mindful, stay engaged Staying informed doesn’t mean staying constantly connected. By mindfully setting boundaries and using supportive tools, you can keep up with important events while protecting your wellbeing. If you’re trying productivity apps and other tools, start small. Choose one tool that resonates with you rather than trying everything at once. Set realistic goals that fit your life, and use these apps’ insights to understand your habits better. Pay attention to what triggers your doomscrolling and adjust your settings accordingly. Remember, these tools work best when combined with offline activities you enjoy. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. The goal isn’t to disconnect completely, but to find a sustainable balance between staying informed and maintaining peace of mind. With thoughtful boundaries and the right support tools, you can stay engaged with the world while keeping your mental health intact. Lisa Harrison, Lecturer in Digital Communications, Flinders University _*LIST: ZRP releases names of drug barons and pushers it has arrested*_ The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has release the names of drug barons and pushers from across the country. Here we go: - Tafadzwa Kagande (37), of Horning Close, The Grange, Harare was arrested on 08th January 2025 for unlawful possession of 251 kilogrammes of dagga. - Wadzanai Siyamachira (38) of 97 Street, Warren Park D, Harare, was arrested on 17th January 2025 for possession of three grammes of Cocaine. - Yeukai Sandra Bangajena (34) of Witchens Farm, Banket was arrested on 22nd January 2025 for unlawful possession of unregistered medicines including, 124 X 10 Iblucap tablets, 15 grammes Epidem Cream, 6 X 120 mls Clairman Lightening Cream, 20 X 10 Ibuprofen, 78 X 2 Cafemol tablets, 6 X 60 ml Paw Paw Lait oil and 20 X10 Doxycycline 100 mg capsules. - Blessing Phiri (27) of Block B 13, Matererini Flats, Mbare, Harare was arrested on 23rd January 2025 for unlawful possession of five grammes of Crystal Meth. - Sheena Mugwagwa (36) of Area 16 Dangamvura, Mutare was arrested on 24th January 2025 for unlawful possession of 50 grammes of Crystal Meth and 7 X 100 mls of Broncleer Cough Syrup. - Kalisto Bisenti (45) of Jongwe Road, Mufakose was arrested on 24th January 2025 for unlawful possession of 19 grammes of Crystal Meth. - Tatenda Rusere (38) alias Jack of Glenview 2, Harare was arrested on 24th January 2025 for possession of 23 grammes of Cocaine. - Morgan Kadungure (26) of Glenwood, Epworth, Harare and Pride Ezra Madamombe of Ushewekunze, Harare were arrested on 04th February 2025 at a security check point at the 50 kilometre peg along Beitbridge-Masvingo Road for unlawful possession of 34 kilogrammes of dagga. - Elizabeth Masando (39) of Block 4, B4, Nenyere Flats, Mbare, Harare was arrested on 05th February 2025 for possession of unregistered medicines which include, 30 X 100 ml bottles of Ardco Salterpyn and 39 X 100ml bottles of Broncleer Cough Syrup. - Sandra Tirivangani (35) of Block 3, B4, Nenyere Flats, Mbare, Harare and Perpetua Madamombe (30) Block 3, B4, Nenyere Flats, Mbare, Harare were arrested on 05th February 2024 for unlawful possession of 136 sachets of skunky dagga. - Naison Takaindisa (37) of Chiedza Township, Karoi and Necious Chipangura (22) of Orangevale, Harare were arrested on 06th February 2025 for unlawful possession of unregistered medicines including 1900 Compound Magnesium Trisilicate tablets, 11 000 Ibuprofen tablets, 3 000 Quick tablets, 800 Kifaru Sildenafil tablets, 1000 Amoxylin 250 mg capsules, 6000 Super Apeti tablets and 12 Gold skin lotion. - Bezel Munodawafa (35) of Dustin Road, Hillside, Harare was arrested on 07th February 2025 for unlawful possession of three grammes of Crystal Meth. - Moleen Mazani (24) of Mazani Homestead, Njikiza, Nyatsime, Chitungwiza was arrested on 10th February 2025 for the cultivation of five plants of dagga. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. - Wellington Simbarashe John (27) of Mugaragunguwo Street, Mufakose, Harare was arrested on 11th February 2025 for unlawful possession of Crystal Meth. Cops say if you have any information on drug peddlers and barons, go ahead and tell them: National Complaints Desk at (0242) 703631 or via WhatsApp at 0712 800 197. _*High Court Rejects Welshman Ncube’s Application On CCC’s Parliamentary Leadership Changes*_ High Court judge Justice Nevile Wamambo dismissed Welshman Ncube’s application for the immediate enforcement of a previous High Court ruling that prohibited Sengezo Tshabangu from unilaterally reshuffling CCC’s parliamentary leadership. Last month, the High Court issued a ruling preventing Tshabangu from making changes to the party’s parliamentary leadership, but Tshabangu appealed the decision at the Supreme Court. In response, the Ncube faction requested permission from the High Court to enforce the judgment while the appeal was still pending. However, in a ruling delivered this week, Justice Wamambo rejected the Ncube faction’s application. He said: After reading documents filed of record and hearing counsel, it is ordered that the application be and is hereby dismissed with applicant (Prof Ncube) paying costs to the first (Sen Tshabangu) and third (Mlotshwa) respondents. Meanwhile, Ncube has called for a disciplinary hearing with Tshabangu, scheduled for tomorrow. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Tshabangu is facing accusations of making unilateral appointments and reassignments of CCC members in Parliament, moves the Ncube camp argues were unauthorised and illegal. _*Security guard found dead at Council offices… Harare City Council bosses now threaten each other with DEATH!*_ A Harare City Council employee based at Remembrance Drive offices in Mbare last Friday allegedly committed suicide under yet to be established circumstances. Ms Margaret Muganga who was working in the Department of Housing and Community Services as acting allocations officer, is suspected to have poisoned herself. Her death came two weeks after the city council instituted investigations into the alleged unprocedural and double allocations of stands by the Department of Housing. There are reports that the deceased left a suicide note in which she allegedly revealed circumstances leading to her death. National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed Ms Muganga’s death and said they were investigating circumstances surrounding her death. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. “Police are investigating circumstances surrounding the death of (Ms) Margaret Muganga. The circumstances leading to the unfortunate incident are not clear and are now subject of the police inquiry. “We will release detailed information only after inquiries are complete. In this regard, it is difficult to say if there was a suicide note or not,” said Asst Comm Nyathi. On June 5, the Harare City Council temporarily suspended operations of the Allocations Unit in the Department of Housing to pave way for internal investigations. Council said the move to temporarily shut down the unit was prompted by desperate home seekers that were duped of their hard earned cash. However, the operations have since been resumed and according to a highly placed source in council, Ms Muganga was one of the employees implicated during the on-going investigations. “She is one of the employees implicated in the on-going internal investigations. There are also reports that she left a suicide note before she took her life,” said the source. When The Herald visited the Muganga family residence at House number 2645 Crowborough Phase 4, her husband refused to comment on whether his wife left a suicide note. Herald _*Government forces EVERY business in Zimbabwe to use swipe machines with immediate effect, companies to report ZiG*_ In a bid to formalise the informal sector, increase tax compliance, and stabilise the struggling economy, the Zimbabwean government has mandated the adoption of electronic payment systems for all businesses, including Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The announcement was made on Tuesday by Information Minister Jenfan Muswere, outlining a series of short-term interventions approved by Cabinet. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. Under these reforms, vendors are now required to register with local authorities, open bank accounts, and acquire Point of Sale (POS) machines. The government aims to ensure that “every eligible taxpayer pays tax” through this compulsory payment system, enforced by a “Domestic Inter-agency Team” tasked with ensuring informal sector compliance with tax laws, according to Muswere. The measures were presented by Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube. These changes are part of a broader effort by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration to address the challenges facing the Zimbabwean economy, which has been plagued by currency instability, company closures, and a shrinking formal sector. The government has also endorsed refinements to the foreign exchange system, including reducing the foreign currency retention rate for exporters from 75 percent to 70 percent and lowering bank charges and minimum deposit interest rates. The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe governor, John Mushayavanhu, has also issued a new directive requiring companies listed on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange to report their financial results in the ZiG currency, the country’s struggling local unit. “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. While 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. In addition to these short-term measures, the government has outlined medium-term interventions, including streamlining regulatory processes, improving electricity supply through power plant construction, enforcing local procurement policies, and incentivizing alternative energy use. To further support MSMEs, the government has pledged to create designated workspaces, simplify taxes, strengthen business development, and ban the importation of second-hand goods. “These measures will provide the necessary support for MSMEs to transition into formal businesses, addressing long-standing challenges in the economy and fostering sustainable growth,” Muswere said. However, the government’s recent decisions have faced criticism from various sectors. The reduction in the foreign currency retention rate for exporters has raised concerns about the impact on businesses that rely heavily on foreign currency for their operations. The Horticultural Development Council said the lowering of the forex retention threshold from 75% to 70% “presents significant challenges for the horticulture sector that relies heavily on foreign currency earnings” to sustain production. “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.” The Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers has also expressed concerns about the impact of the reduced foreign currency retention threshold on the retail and wholesale sector. “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.” 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. _*UN agent backs Ramaphosa’s land ‘grab’ as step to address racial land imbalance*_ The United Nations (UN) Human Rights Office in Geneva has described South Africa’s Land Expropriation Act, signed into law by President Cyril Ramaphosa, as a critical step in addressing the country’s racially imbalanced land ownership. This has been viewed by critics as land grab, following Zimbabwe’s footprint. The UNHR statement came in response to a question from SABC News regarding US President Donald Trump’s executive order, which misrepresented South Africa’s land policy and alleged poor treatment of the white Afrikaner minority. UN spokesperson Seif Magango said redressing racially imbalanced land ownership is vital to addressing historical injustices from the apartheid era and fostering a more equitable future. This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production. He added that the recently adopted law, signed last month by Ramaphosa, marked a significant step in this journey. However, the UN Human Rights Office urged South African authorities to ensure the law’s implementation aligns with constitutional protections and complies with international human rights standards. On Monday, Trump reiterated his negative stance on South Africa, calling the situation “very dangerous and very bad for a lot of people” while refusing to confirm his attendance at the G20 Leaders Summit later this year. The UN’s support highlights the global significance of South Africa’s efforts to address land reform while emphasizing the need for careful implementation. _*Zimsec Announces 2025 O Level and A Level Exam Fees and Closing Dates*_ The Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council (Zimsec) has released the June and November 2025 O Level and A Level examination fees and closing dates. Zimsec Announces 2025 O Level and A Level Exam Fees In a notice issued on Tuesday, Zimsec confirmed that the government will cover 55% of the exam fees for A Level and O Level candidates attending public schools. However, candidates in private schools, as well as private candidates in public schools, will need to pay the full exam fees. “Following the approval of the 2025 Ordinary and Advanced Level examination fees. please be advised that Government will be subsidizing the 2025 Ordinary and Advanced level examination fees for candidates in public schools, Local Authority Schools and Mission Schools. All candidates in private schools and colleges, including private candidates in public schools will pay the full cost of the examination fees. The 2025 full cost of the examinations for Ordinary and Advanced level will be USD 24.00 and USD 48.00 per subject respectively. Therefore. candidates in public schools will pay 45% of the examination fees per subject and Government will pay 55% of the examination fees per subject,” the notice reads. _*Police hunt for counterfeit products company directors*_ Police are still looking for Keacy Motor Spares directors who are believed to be behind the manufacturing and packaging of counterfeit brake fluid and the prime bond multipurpose adhesives that were being sold to unsuspecting customers at their shop along Harare Street. National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi said investigations are in progress and they are looking for the company directors. “The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Selina Nyurwa (33) and Ashley Kasambarara (32) for selling counterfeit products in Harare,” he said. “On February 3, police from the Harare Licence lnspectorate received information that a foreign-owned company operating along Bristol Road, Workington in Harare was selling counterfeit brake fluid and prime bond silicon. “The police acted on the information, leading to the arrest of the suspects and the recovery of 88 boxes of prime bond (8 800 units) and 593 boxes of brake fluid (26 000 units). “The ZRP warns individuals and companies against selling counterfeit goods,” he said. Commissioner Nyathi urged members of the public to report such individuals and companies to the police on the National Complaints Desk number (0242) 703631, WhatsApp 0716800197 or the nearest police station. Herald This is an Ignite Media Zimbabwe news production.