Wednesday 11 June 2025 *MORNING NEWS UPDATES* *THE HEADLINES* https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaDbHKp3GJOtlMM4PA39 https://wa.me/263718497005?text=advert *“We are working under impossible conditions, we cannot continue like this” – nurses plead with govt to prioritise public health sector* *Hospitals in Zimbabwe face collapse as treatable illnesses claim lives – nurses group sounds alarm* *IMF wants Zimbabwe’s gold-backed ZiG to become sole currency* *Kuda Tagwirei Lifts the Lid on President Mnangagwa’s Wealth and How He Earns It* *University of Zimbabwe docks salaries of striking lecturers* *The controversial Licence law fuels informality, corruption’* *Zimbabwe Set To Ban Lithium Concentrate Exports In 2027* *No value addition equipment, no chrome claims’* *Zim, Zambia sign MoU for new pipeline to transport refined petroleum* *No Number Plate ZANU PF Cars Flood Streets* *Corruption A Cancer In Prisons: Boss* *Mnangagwa Continues To Use Cash To Buy Loyalty* *High Court issues interdict against United Methodist Church* *Supreme Court throws out an appeal by Israel-based firm Magic Software Enterprises, which had sought to overturn a High Court decision that ruled nearly US$2 million held in a Nedbank Zimbabwe account was not a foreign loan* *Zimbabwe aims for rice self-sufficiency with three new varieties* *A 36-man Orchestra! Alick Macheso’s ballooning wage bill as he celebrates 57th birthday* *11-Month-Old Baby Goes Missing in Budiriro in Suspected Kidnapping After ‘Customer’ Offers to Babysit* *Zimbabwean on the Run in Botswana After Murder of Motswana Woman* *‘Uthini wena Temu Ndlozi?’: McKenzie clashes with EFF’s Sihle Lonzi over illegal foreigners* *7 people dead as massive snow, heavy rain and deadly weather wrecks havoc across South Africa, N2 highway closed* *SPORT WITH IGNITE MEDIA ZIMBABWE* *Warriors crash out of 2025 COSAFA Cup tournament* *Senegal hand England 1st ever loss to African team in 3:1 win* *One year to World Cup, are Tuchel's England regressing after Southgate era?* *Liverpool agree fee for Wirtz* *Arsenal have agreed a fee of about £59m with Real Sociedad for Spain midfielder Martin Zubimendi, 26, with the move to be completed after 1 July to help with meeting Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations* *Manchester United are evaluating an offer for Napoli's Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen, 26, using Netherlands forward Joshua Zirkzee, 24, as part of the deal* *RB Leipzig's 22-year-old Slovenia striker Benjamin Sesko - a reported target for Arsenal - rejected a move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal before Tuesday's transfer deadline* *Leipzig are holding firm on receiving the full release clause for Sesko, now understood to be more than £65m* *Gianluigi Donnarumma wants to stay with Paris St-Germain despite Manchester United and Inter Milan enquiring about the Italy goalkeeper, 26* *Brighton will accept a bid of £50-60m for 23-year-old Brazil forward Joao Pedro, who is a target for Newcastle United* *Chelsea are open to offers for Benoit Badiashile, 24, and fellow France defender Axel Disasi, 27* *Al-Hilal's bid to sign France midfielder N'Golo Kante, 34, on a short-term deal from Saudi rivals Al-Ittihad for the Club World Cup could collapse because of a fan backlash* *THE DETAILS* _*“We are working under impossible conditions, we cannot continue like this” – nurses plead with govt to prioritise public health sector*_ THE Zimbabwe Nurses Association (ZINA) has made a desperate appeal to the government to urgently address the situation in public hospitals, saying they are working under “impossible conditions” which are endangering lives. Government has for years continued to neglect public hospitals, which are the largest providers of healthcare services in the country. Public hospitals across Zimbabwe lack basic medical supplies, with patients being left to purchase their own or referred to private hospitals where charges are beyond the reach of many. In a statement Tuesday, ZINA president Enock Dongo said the government has failed the health sector. “As nurses, we are working under impossible conditions. We are forced to improvise daily just to preserve life. But we cannot continue like this. The system has failed, and the suffering is unbearable. “We call on the government of Zimbabwe to urgently prioritise the health sector. Equip hospitals. Support nurses. Save lives. This situation must be addressed without delay,” Dongo said. Dongo also said public hospitals do not have blankets for patients in this winter season and some wards do not have windows. “Facilities are deteriorating fast. There are no blankets in many wards as we approach winter. Some hospitals do not even have proper windows. “X-ray departments are not functioning. Diagnostic centres are almost non-existent. Basic lab services are unavailable. “Nurses are unable to conduct essential tests, and the sick are being referred to private hospitals that they cannot afford. They remain in public wards, in pain, waiting, suffering,” Dongo added. Recently, Health Minister Douglas Mombeshora admitted that Zimbabwe’s biggest referral public hospital, Parirenyatwa, is in a bad state after a tour following a public outcry. The situation at Parirenyatwa is a reflection of all public hospitals in the country. Over the years, health workers have submitted numerous petitions and staged protests calling for urgent government intervention; however, the authorities have taken little to no action. _*Hospitals in Zimbabwe face collapse as treatable illnesses claim lives – nurses group sounds alarm*_ Nurses in Zimbabwe have issued a stark warning regarding the deteriorating state of the nation’s public health system, claiming that citizens are succumbing to easily treatable diseases due to a severe lack of essential resources. In a statement on Tuesday, Zimbabwe Nurses Association (ZINA) president Enock Dongo highlighted what the association described as a “national emergency,” asserting that the continued neglect of public hospitals has led to widespread disrepair and an inability to provide adequate care. According to ZINA, public hospitals are critically short of basic medication, forcing patients to purchase their own drugs and supplies. The association contended that deaths are occurring not due to a lack of medical expertise, but from the absence of fundamental medications, equipment, and resources. “We challenge anyone in denial to visit Harare Central Hospital or any provincial hospital-today. Ask yourself if you or your loved one would receive the care you deserve. “It is only when you or someone close to you falls sick that you fully realise how broken our healthcare system has become,” the association stated. “Public hospitals have no medication. Patients are told to buy their own drugs or supplies for things that should be readily available. People are dying from diseases that are easily treatable. “These are not deaths due to lack of medical knowledge or skill-but deaths caused simply by the absence of basic medication, equipment, and resources.New members who wish to receive daily news updates from Ignite Media Zimbabwe should WhatsApp ‘join’ to 071 9999 012. “Facilities are deteriorating fast. There are no blankets in many wards as we approach winter. Some hospitals don’t even have proper windows. X-ray departments are not functioning. Diagnostic centres are almost non-existent. “Basic lab services are unavailable. Nurses are unable to conduct essential tests, and the sick are being referred to private hospitals they cannot afford. They remain in public wards, in pain, waiting, suffering.” ZINA cited the “impossible conditions” under which nurses are working, forced to improvise daily to preserve lives. The association has urgently called upon the Government of Zimbabwe to prioritise the health sector, equip hospitals, and support nurses to prevent further loss of life. Last month, Youth Empowerment Minister Tinoda Machakaire publicly voiced significant concern regarding the state of Zimbabwe’s public healthcare system, directly implicating President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration for allegedly disregarding “important realities on the ground.” Following a personal visit to an unnamed public health institution, Machakaire posted on X, suggesting a profound disconnect between perceived progress and the daily struggles of citizens. He described the conditions he witnessed as “deeply moving” and indicative of the “serious challenges” facing many Zimbabweans, confirming that the increasing public outcry over healthcare accurately reflects the experiences of numerous citizens. Machakaire then directly appealed to the President, urging him to personally visit public health institutions to gain firsthand insight into the dire situation. Zimbabwe’s healthcare system has long grappled with substantial challenges, often attributed to prolonged economic instability, corruption allegations, and administrative shortcomings, consistently failing to meet the Abuja Declaration’s recommendation of allocating at least 15% of the national budget to health. _*IMF wants Zimbabwe’s gold-backed ZiG to become sole currency*_ The International Monetary Fund said it would like to see the ZiG “fully becoming a national currency,” as it weighs whether to place Zimbabwe on a staff-monitored program. The ZiG, short for Zimbabwe Gold, succeeded the Zimbabwean dollar in April 2024 after multiple crashes. It’s the country’s sixth attempt since 2009 to replace the dollar as the southern African nation’s main transacting currency, but is yet to succeed. Several measures will need to be adopted to boost ZiG usage, including deepening the foreign-exchange market to ensure full price discovery, said Wojciech Maliszewski, the Washington-based lender’s mission chief, who is in Zimbabwe to review its request for a new SMP. The nation’s last program ended abruptly in 2019 after the central bank printed money that fueled the collapse of the local currency. “Right now we see good stability in the official market and we also see a convergence between the parallel and official rate,” he told reporters Monday after meeting Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa in the capital, Harare. “Ideally, we would like to see an elimination of this gap, we would like to see one exchange rate.”New members who wish to receive daily news updates from Ignite Media Zimbabwe should WhatsApp ‘join’ to 071 9999 012. Still, the ZiG’s 43% devaluation in September to narrow the gap between the official and unofficial rate and its inconvertibility has led citizens to favor dollars. The ZiG traded little changed on Tuesday at 26.96 against the dollar and exchanged hands at 32 to 35 on the parallel market. The Washington-based lender said it isn’t pushing for more exchange rate depreciation but for the “two rates to converge” supported by government fiscal discipline. “There is a good chance that these rates will converge,” Maliszewski said. Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube last month at the annual meetings of the African Development Bank said he expected the SMP to be finalized by the end of June. The program would bring Zimbabwe closer toward revamping its $21 billion debt pile with creditors that want assurances that its authorities are pursuing prudent fiscal and monetary policies. _*Kuda Tagwirei Lifts the Lid on President Mnangagwa’s Wealth and How He Earns It*_ Zimbabwean businessman Kuda Tagwirei made headlines this week after casually revealing what he claims is President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s net worth — and it’s not small change. Tagwirei was speaking at a youth event hosted by Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa at the United Family International Church (UFIC) in Chitungwiza when he dropped the bombshell about the president’s alleged financial standing. Mnangagwa’s Farm Brings in Millions, Says Tagwirei While addressing the audience, Tagwirei claimed that Mnangagwa’s farm in Sherwood, Kwekwe, pulls in US$11 million a year in revenue. He added that the president reportedly makes a 35% profit from that income, roughly US$4 million annually. “The turnover for his farm. He’s gonna kill me, but I’m gonna tell you, is around 11 million dollars a year. The profit that he makes, if he makes 35% profit, that’s around four million dollars a year,” he said. Tagwirei Reveals President Mnangagwa’s Net Worth Tagwirei didn’t stop there. He went on to estimate that Mnangagwa’s net worth sits at about US$40 million, based on a rough calculation of his alleged annual profits over ten years. He then compared the President’s alleged financial position to how things might look in wealthier countries, saying that if Mnangagwa lived in the First World, he’d likely own a private jet by now. “If I’m talking about net worth, those who are calculating right now, this man must be worth 40 million, because 4 million times ten is 40 million. From his farm. If he was in a first-world country, he can buy a plane if he wants, because he has the balance sheet that supports it,” Tagwirei added. Despite the big numbers, Tagwirei described Mnangagwa as a humble man, especially considering the kind of wealth he allegedly has at his disposal. _*University of Zimbabwe docks salaries of striking lecturers*_ THE University of Zimbabwe (UZ) has withheld the salaries of striking lecturers as turmoil continues at the institution. The lecturers have now reached 58 days of industrial action, demanding a salary increase that aligns with Zimbabwe’s soaring cost of living. While UZ has remained silent on the strike, it has retaliated by withholding salaries from the defiant lecturers, who are steadfast in their demand for a return to pre-2018 wages of US$2,250 per month for junior staff — up from the current US$230. Obvious Vengeyi, spokesperson for the Association of University Teachers (AUT), condemned the salary deductions as an attempt to force an end to the strike. “Of course, it is an act of trying to force our members to return to work for the US$230 they initially rejected. It’s a way of arm-twisting certain members of our community to resume teaching. “Many here who have not been paid have resolved that, whether they receive the US$230 or not, they will not return. The majority of us have not been paid — yes. But we remain committed. Until junior lecturers get US$2,250, we will not go back to class,” said Vengeyi. The university’s latest move follows its hiring of adjunct lecturers last month to fill gaps left by the striking staff.New members who wish to receive daily news updates from Ignite Media Zimbabwe should WhatsApp ‘join’ to 071 9999 012. However, the AUT has dismissed this as futile, claiming most replacements lack the qualifications to teach at a university level. “There is no teaching happening at the university. No supervision is taking place. A few scabs have been hired to replace —sort of — the lecturers on strike,” said Vengeyi further. The prolonged strike has disrupted examinations, with planned sittings facing further delays, potentially derailing the academic year. Last month, six students were arrested after staging flash protests demanding the lecturers’ return, signalling the growing unrest on campus. _*The controversial Licence law fuels informality, corruption’*_ THE recently enacted Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill, which makes it mandatory for all motorists to possess a radio licence, risks triggering informality in some businesses and fuelling corruption in the issuance of exemptions, the National Competitiveness Commission has said. President Emmerson Mnangagwa last month signed the Broadcasting Services Amendment Act No 2, 2025, which orders all motorists to obtain a Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) radio licence before renewing their Zimbabwe National Road Authority (Zinara) vehicle licence or obtaining insurance. The law has triggered uproar among motorists who cited clause 15 as discriminatory, as it targets vehicle owners specifically while exempting other segments of the population. In an analysis of the new law, the National Competitiveness Commission warned that increased financial burden and potential corruption threaten competitiveness and formal operations in the country. “While the Act presents potential benefits, businesses perceive it as an additional financial burden, which has an impact on cash flows, profitability and competitiveness. “The Act poses a high risk of triggering informality of some businesses and igniting tendencies for corruption in the issuance of exemptions,” the commission said. It, however, said the Act had the potential to positively influence business competitiveness by enhancing media content quality and providing a more stable advertising environment. “However, businesses may consider the broader economic implications and ensure that their strategies align with the evolving media landscape so that they can positively benefit. “To sum it up, the net effect on business competitiveness depends on sector, scale and implementation. Media and advertising industries might benefit from better-funded local broadcasters and content while transport-heavy sectors, small enterprises and low-margin businesses may see it as an unfair cost that affects competitiveness. “Therefore, transparent, fair implementation and visible returns in broadcast quality would be critical to minimising harm and maximising benefits.” The new law pegs private vehicle licence fees at US$23 per quarter, amounting to US$92 per year, while corporate-owned vehicles will pay US$50 per quarter, totalling US$200 per year. According to estimates, a company with 100 vehicles will be required to pay a staggering US$20 000 per year in radio licence fees. A business owner interviewed by the National Competitiveness Commission during the survey said the mandatory radio levy added an extra financial burden on businesses, “reducing profit margins and discouraging formal business operations”. “This is an additional burden to economic actors already reeling under escalating costs of compliance with regulations. With more funding, ZBC can improve programming quality, especially local content, which benefits businesses looking to advertise to domestic audiences,” the National Competitiveness Commission report said. “At the same time, a revitalised broadcaster may offer more competitive rates and reach, giving businesses new or better opportunities for advertising.” “The one-size-fits-all model being applied by the government on the radio licences may result in some businesses being forced to pay for a service [radio broadcasting] they do not use, which is seen as inefficient or unfair,” the report said. The National Competitiveness Commission proposed that the government should introduce tiered or scaled licensing fees, allowing for exemptions or opt-out mechanisms and providing tax credits or deductions for registered businesses. “There is a need to base the radio licence fee on vehicle type or business size, for example, small vehicles versus commercial fleets,” the commission said. “This reduces the disproportionate burden on small businesses and transport operators with multiple vehicles.”.Economic analyst Gift Mugano said the government seemed to be oblivious of the fact that businesses are running several trucks, a fleet of vehicles, which would then end up result in a staggering bill to such businesses. “It is enough to import a reasonable machine or to fund raw material for a company. And as much as it is fair that we need to pay for our services, I think what is important is that ZBC, in particular, must give commercial services, must be providing products which are attractive for the public to pay for them. Let's give two examples here,” he said. “Multichoice, the DSTV, no one provided a licence for us to pay for DSTV, but we pay because we are getting services. And they are performing exceptionally well, better than our regulated ZBC, which spends more time doing politics than other programmes, which can attract the audience to look at it as a very important service provider.” He said Zimbabwe had become a very high-cost base in terms of licence fees in the region. “Let us pay, but let ZBC build on the volume. The concept of mandatory payment is a good one in terms of enforcing payments, but if it is mandatory and we have 1,2 million motor vehicles in this country, why don’t we pay US$10 per quarter? “Even if we make US$30 a year, they’ll get about US$36 million. It’s enough for the operation, I presume. Then they can get more money from commercial activities. “But the critical thing is that ZBC has to reform. ZBC is very boring. When you watch ZBC, it offers space and airtime to political activities of Zanu PF and that doesn’t benefit the whole country.” Newsday _*Zimbabwe Set To Ban Lithium Concentrate Exports In 2027*_ ZIMBABWE will ban the export of lithium concentrates effective January 2027, as part of efforts to push foreign mining companies to establish processing and refining facilities within the country, cabinet has announced. In 2022, Zimbabwe, which has Africa’s largest lithium reserves, banned the export of unprocessed lithium ore, and since then, only lithium concentrates have been permitted for export. Lithium producers are mandated to process ore into concentrates before export to increase mineral value, create local jobs and boost revenue. Speaking during a post-cabinet media briefing Tuesday, Mines Minister Winston Chitando said the government has moved a step further and from January 2027, exporting lithium concentrates will no longer be allowed; only lithium sulphates (a higher level of value addition) will be permitted for export. “We do have two major players being Bikita and Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe who are in the process of establishing lithium sulphate plants. “These are value addition facilities which will add value from lithium concentrate to lithium sulphate. “We are moving to a stage where we are upgrading our lithium production to lithium sulphate which, among other uses, is a direct input into battery making. “So because of that capacity which is now in the country, the export of all lithium concentrates will be banned from January 2027,” Chitando said. Chitando also urged players in the lithium sector to invest in lithium sulphate facilities or collaborate by signing toll treatment agreements ahead of the January 2027 ban on lithium concentrate exports. “So we would like to take this opportunity to call upon the players in the lithium sector to come together and collaborate so that those who are not undertaking investing in lithium sulphate value addition facilities, sign respective agreements for toll treatment because come January 2027 exports of lithium concentrates will no longer be allowed,” he added. Many African nations have been aiming to make foreign mining firms increase value to their economies. _*No value addition equipment, no chrome claims’*_ THE issuance of new chrome mining titles exceeding 100 hectares will now be contingent upon the expansion or development of new furnace capacity, Government has said. Addressing a post-Cabinet media briefing in Harare yesterday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere said Government is also implementing a “use it or lose it” policy, urging holders of unsed mining titles, particularly in chrome, to take the necessary actions to align with new regulations. The move seeks to bolster the ferrochrome industry in Zimbabwe, which is crucial for the production of stainless steel. Government’s focus is on enhancing local capacities rather than relying on external markets. The country has about 10 ferrochrome producers with capacities ranging from 3 000 to 84 000 tonnes per annum, totalling an estimated capacity of 270 000 tonnes per annum. “With immediate effect, the issuance of new chrome mining title above 100ha has to be linked to the expansion or development of new furnace capacity,” said Dr Muswere. “Cabinet re-affirmed the ban on the export of chrome ores, and stressed the need to develop the ferrochrome industry locally. “The Ministry of Mines and Mining Development will be strengthening the implementation of the use it/lose it principle, and holders of all unutilised mining titles, chrome in particular, are requested to take note of the Government position.” Dr Muswere said the Palm River Project, commissioned in February by President Mnangagwa, now has an operational production capacity of 100 000 tonnes per annum. It is in the process of ramping up to a design capacity of 1 000 000 tonnes of ferrochrome, which will make it by far the largest producer in the country. In an update on the mining sector, Mines and Mining Development Minister Winston Chitando reported on the state of the ferrochrome industry, which remains one of the most volatile minerals in terms of pricing. Dr Muswere said in addition to the chrome sector, Cabinet addressed developments in the lithium sub-sector. Zimbabwe primarily produces spodumene ores, essential for the global energy transition.Companies such as Bikita Minerals and Arcadia Lithium are advancing plans to establish lithium sulphate value addition facilities, which will enable local beneficiation of lithium ores. Importantly, starting January 2027, the export of lithium concentrate will be prohibited, further emphasising the Government’s commitment to local processing. “Zimbabwe lithium ore bodies are multi-element as they contain a number of minerals. Bikita Minerals and Arcadia Lithium are in the process of establishing lithium sulphate value addition facilities in order to beneficiate the lithium ores produced locally. “With effect from January 2027, the export of lithium concentrate will no longer be allowed,” said Dr Muswere. Herald _*Zim, Zambia sign MoU for new pipeline to transport refined petroleum*_ GOVERNMENT has approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Zambia to facilitate the development of a new pipeline for transporting refined petroleum. The announcement was made by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere at yesterday’s post-Cabinet briefing. The MoU seeks to leverage Zimbabwe’s existing infrastructure for oil and gas storage, processing, and transportation in response to Zambia’s increasing demand for affordable and efficient energy solutions. By establishing this pipeline system, both countries aim to foster private sector development while improving energy accessibility. “Cabinet approved the above-stated memorandum, through which Zimbabwe and Zambia wish to facilitate the development of a new pipeline system to transport refined petroleum from Zimbabwe to Zambia,” said Dr Muswere. “The Memorandum of Understanding leverages Zimbabwe’s existing capacity for oil and gas storage, processing, and transportation, coupled with Zambia’s growing demand for affordable and efficient energy use. Transporting fuel to Zambia by pipeline is expected to take fuel tankers off the roads, thereby reducing damage to road infrastructure,” said Dr Muswere. The new pipeline project is expected to streamline the transportation of fuel, making it more efficient and environmentally friendly. By moving fuel via pipeline, both countries can reduce tax evasion on fuel, transportation costs, and bolster energy security. Herald _*No Number Plate ZANU PF Cars Flood Streets*_ This is how low Zimbabwe has sunk … Zanu PF Harare Province youth chairman Emmanuel Mahachi’s Toyota Fortuner is captured on camera in Masvingo without a number plate, third number plate and insurance. In place of the number plate is a sticker which says sanctions must go. The vehicle was being driven by a woman identified as Mahachi’s wife. In place of the third number plate and insurance is a sticker inscribed ZANU PF OFFICIAL 2024, WORKING TOWARDS VISION 2030. The law does not allow any vehicle on the road without any of these three. Asked for a comment, Mahachi initially said that his party is on anti-sanctions campaign and some vehicles were stripped of their number plates and replaced with anti-sanctions logos. He conceded that he is not paying Zimra road licence and insurance. He got angry when he realised that he was talking to Masvingo Mirror reporter and argued that the car was not his. ZRP and ZINARA have no power over Zanu PF activists and both State organs look aside as crimes are being committed. As a result, the streets are now awash with vehicles that have no number plates. Presidential Spokesperson George Charamba recently told Masvingo Mirror that this lawlessness is unacceptable as many robberies are committed using cars without number plates. Masvingo Mirror _*Corruption A Cancer In Prisons: Boss*_ The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) has issued a stern warning to its officers against engaging in corruption and drug or substance abuse, stating that those found guilty will face severe consequences. The warning was delivered by ZPCS Commissioner General Dr Moses Chihobvu during a graduation ceremony for 615 students at the Ntabazinduna Training School. He emphasised that any officer who violates the organisation’s principles of moral and professional integrity will be held accountable. Commissioner General Chihobvu described corruption as a cancerous threat that must be eradicated from the institution. “Let me take this opportunity to address two critical threats to the integrity of our organisation: substance abuse and corruption. I want to make it abundantly clear that these have no place in the ZPCS,” said Commissioner General Chihobvu. He noted that the misuse of drugs and alcohol undermines personal health, compromises operational safety and erodes public trust. Similarly, he said, corruption — whether through misappropriation of stores, trafficking of contraband, or abuse of authority — strikes at the heart of the organisation’s mission. “Any officer found engaging in such misconduct will face swift and decisive disciplinary and legal consequences,” he said. Chronicle _*Mnangagwa Continues To Use Cash To Buy Loyalty*_ President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government is facing renewed criticism amid allegations that state funds are being used to buy political loyalty under the guise of empowerment, with the latest example being a US$500,000 payout to the Children of Zimbabwe Liberation War Veterans Association. The cash injection—branded as part of the Presidential Empowerment Initiative—was launched last week in Gweru and is allegedly being distributed among children of war veterans. However, critics say the scheme is more political than developmental. According to internal party sources, recipients of the fund were selected based not on project merit but on political allegiance to Mnangagwa’s ZANU-PF faction. The fund, which is supposed to support income-generating projects, is seen by observers as a reward system designed to secure the loyalty of a key political constituency. “This isn’t about uplifting lives—it’s about reinforcing power,” said a ZANU-PF youth league insider. “The Children of War Veterans have become a reliable support base, and this money is being used to keep them close.” The association’s leadership confirmed that registration for the fund is ongoing, but concerns are growing about lack of transparency and accountability in how the money will be allocated. Sources allege that individuals critical of the party leadership or aligned with internal rivals have been sidelined from the list of beneficiaries..A leaked internal circular reportedly instructed provincial leaders to prioritize “trusted cadres” and “politically aligned individuals” in the disbursement of the funds. This has led to frustration among some war veterans’ children, who say they are being excluded for refusing to engage in partisan politics. Former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) youth assembly spokesperson Stephen Sarkozy Chuma said the initiative is a clear case of patronage politics masked as development. “What we are witnessing is not empowerment—it is elite capture,” Chuma said. “Mnangagwa is using state resources as political bait to buy loyalty, especially from groups like the Children of War Veterans who are now seen as mobilizing agents ahead of internal ZANU-PF contests. It’s a classic case of transactional politics that undermines democratic governance.” As Zimbabwe grapples with deepening economic hardship, deteriorating social services, and growing public frustration, critics argue that the use of public funds for political ends is not only unethical but destabilizing. “No audits, no transparency—just raw politics wrapped in development rhetoric,” added one civil society watchdog in Harare. With more “empowerment packages” reportedly on the way, including tractors and agricultural equipment, concerns are mounting that the initiative could evolve into a full-scale patronage machine ahead of the next electoral cycle. _*High Court issues interdict against United Methodist Church*_ The High Court of Zimbabwe has granted an interim order prohibiting the United Methodist Church from hosting services and other functions at its property in Borrowdale, Harare. The decision follows a 15-year legal battle between the church and neighbouring residents. The residents claimed that the church's activities have caused disruptions in the community, including congestion, roadblocks, noise, and disturbances. Justice Munangati Manongwa ruled that the church's activities were unlawful, as it did not have the required permits. The court found that the Town Planning Permit obtained by the church in 2017 did not permit the property to be used as a worship space or place of gathering. The judge emphasised that the residents have the right to peaceful enjoyment of their homes, which was being violated by the church's activities. The United Methodist Church was ordered to stop using the Borrowdale property for worship services and events until it obtains the necessary operating permits. The church was also ordered to pay the costs of the lawsuit. This decision sets an important legal precedent regarding the need for proper permits for religious and commercial activities in residential areas. _*Supreme Court throws out an appeal by Israel-based firm Magic Software Enterprises, which had sought to overturn a High Court decision that ruled nearly US$2 million held in a Nedbank Zimbabwe account was not a foreign loan*_ The Supreme Court has thrown out an appeal by Israel-based firm Magic Software Enterprises Limited, which had sought to overturn a High Court decision that ruled nearly US$2 million held in a Nedbank Zimbabwe account was not a foreign loan. In a ruling delivered by Justice Tendai Uchena and concurred by Justices Samuel Kudya and Felistus Chatukuta, the apex court upheld the High Court's judgment, concluding that Magic Software had failed to provide adequate evidence to support its claims. At the centre of the legal dispute was Magic Software's assertion that US$1 996 723.02 deposited in a non-resident escrow account at Nedbank constituted a foreign loan. The company argued that the amount should have been excluded from conversion into local RTGS currency under the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe's Exchange Control Directive RT120/18, which re-designated foreign currency accounts in 2019. However, Nedbank Zimbabwe disputed the claim, maintaining that the funds were not part of a foreign loan and had been rightfully converted into RTGS dollars in compliance with the RBZ directive. Magic Software's legal argument, led by lawyer Thembinkosi Magwaliba, was that the bank had unlawfully converted the funds and had a duty to preserve the amount in its original foreign currency denomination. He further alleged that the bank should have guided the company on acquiring the necessary exchange control approvals. The case was linked to a Leap Billing Upgrade Agreement between Magic Software and a local telecommunications firm, during which Magic Software had reportedly faced difficulties in receiving payments due to foreign currency shortages in Zimbabwe. The company then deposited the funds into the escrow account locally. Justice Uchena, delivering the verdict, noted that the appellant had not submitted the contract governing the escrow account or sufficient documentary proof to substantiate that the funds were indeed foreign currency obligations. "In view of the finding that the appellant's failure to place the contract before the court a quo and its failure to prove the allegations it had said were contained in Annexures B and C, there is no need to determine the issue on whether or not the respondent correctly acted in terms of the contract when it, in terms of RT 120/18, re-designated the appellant's account to an RTGS foreign currency account," Justice Uchena stated. Representing Nedbank, advocate Thabani Mpofu argued that the claim had been prescribed and that the funds in question were not sourced from offshore but from local RTGS transfers, and thus did not qualify for protection from the currency conversion directive. The judgment brings an end to a years-long legal contest and reaffirms the legality of the RBZ's controversial currency reclassification measures that affected thousands of account holders when implemented in 2019. _*Zimbabwe aims for rice self-sufficiency with three new varieties*_ The Agricultural Research and Innovation Services Department under the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development has introduced three new rice varieties aimed at helping farmers with limited irrigation facilities increase production. The varieties - Nerica 1, Nerica 3, and Nerica 7 - are high yielding while requiring low agricultural inputs, making them well-suited for smallholder farmers. Speaking at the recently held second edition of the Agricultural Research and Extension Symposium in Harare, rice breeder Mrs Nomsa Chizhande said the new varieties were developed to help reduce Zimbabwe's heavy reliance on rice imports. "We are promoting rice production to close the gap between production and consumption," she said, adding that the varieties mature at different times to give farmers flexibility depending on their needs. .According to Mrs Chizhande, Nerica 7 is a long-season variety that takes 135 days to mature and can yield up to seven tonnes per hectare. Nerica 3 is a medium-maturing variety that matures in 120 days and yields up to five tonnes per hectare. Nerica 1 is a short-season variety, maturing in 100 days with yields ranging from three to four tonnes per hectare. One of the key advantages of these varieties is their ability to thrive in upland conditions, making them particularly suitable for farmers who have limited access to irrigation. Mrs Chizhande also emphasized the low input requirements of the new rice strains, explaining that only 200 kilograms per hectare of basal fertilizer and 150 kilograms of ammonium nitrate per hectare are necessary to achieve optimal yields. She highlighted the potential economic benefits, noting that increased rice production could help Zimbabwe save foreign currency currently spent on imports, as well as create jobs and improve farmers' livelihoods. Zimbabwe currently imports over 80 percent of the rice consumed in the country, spending roughly US$100 million annually. Changing dietary preferences, especially among younger generations who are increasingly favoring rice over traditional staples like isitshwala, are driving up demand for the grain. _*A 36-man Orchestra! Alick Macheso’s ballooning wage bill as he celebrates 57th birthday*_ Sungura superstar Alick Macheso has credited his wife and his ever-growing band — now comprising 36 members — for his longevity in the music industry, as he celebrated his 57th birthday. The Shamva-born musician, who marked his birthday with a show at Steak House Pub & Grill in Ardbennie, Harare, on Sunday, paid tribute to his wife and family for standing steadfastly by his side throughout his long and illustrious career. “I feel humbled by this kind of support, as you came in numbers to celebrate my birthday,” he said. “I also want to thank my wife, Nyadzisai Butau-Macheso, for her love and everything she has done for me. To be honest, this milestone means a lot to me as a band leader, family man, and visionary. “I can only be grateful to God for all these years, the gift of life, and the opportunity to watch my children grow. I’m also thankful to my family members who have been there for me,” Macheso said. The musician also expressed gratitude to his renowned band, Orchestra Mberikwazvo, which he revealed now employs an impressive 36 members. A member of the band’s management team, Tich Makahamadze, described Macheso as a leader who genuinely cares about the welfare of his band members. “As you have noticed, this time around he has decided to focus on the welfare of his band members as part of his celebration. As he said on stage, his wage bill keeps ballooning, but he isn’t deterred by the fact that he now leads a staff complement of 36 people. “To us, this means a lot — and it shows that he is indeed a provider for many households through Orchestra Mberikwazvo,” said Makahamadze. _*11-Month-Old Baby Goes Missing in Budiriro in Suspected Kidnapping After ‘Customer’ Offers to Babysit*_ Tension and heartbreak have gripped the Budiriro community in Harare following the suspected kidnapping of an 11-month-old baby boy under troubling circumstances. Speaking to state broadcaster ZBC News, the child’s mother, Future Bonga, said the alleged abductor—known only by the nickname Chihera—had been a regular customer at the family’s tuck shop for the past three months. Although her real name was never disclosed, Bonga recounted that Chihera frequently interacted with the family. “She came by on Saturday morning to buy something and left some change,” Bonga told ZBC News. “Later in the afternoon, she came to our house to collect it. I left her with my baby while I ran back to the shop to fetch the money.” What started as a brief errand turned into a nightmare. Upon her return, Chihera reportedly asked to babysit the child and promised to bring him back later. Bonga agreed, asking her for a phone number and directions to her home. “At around 5 PM, I went to collect the baby, but when I got there, no one knew her. Neighbours said they’d never seen or heard of her before. That’s when we knew something was terribly wrong and reported it to the police,” she explained. Bonga also revealed that Chihera once mentioned she had never conceived. The child’s father, Simbarashe Basira, said the incident has left the family distressed. “When I came home from work, I asked where the baby was. My wife said Chihera had taken him. I was shocked, as I had never met or even heard of this woman. She later went to retrieve the baby but returned without him, saying Chihera was nowhere to be found.” The child’s grandmother, Gogo Anna Basira, who was in Mutoko at the time, expressed deep grief. “I’m heartbroken. I had planned to bring the baby to Mutoko next month. This is devastating.” Zimbabwe Republic Police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the case and urged vigilance. “We are investigating a suspected kidnapping involving an unidentified woman who requested to babysit a child and then disappeared. The woman is not known at the address she provided, nor is she known by neighbours. We urge all parents and guardians to be cautious. Always verify people’s identities and report any suspicious behavior to the nearest police station.” The police are appealing to anyone with information that could help locate the suspect or the missing child to come forward. _*Zimbabwean on the Run in Botswana After Murder of Motswana Woman*_ A Zimbabwean woman is on the run after allegedly taking part in the brutal murder of a 38-year-old woman in Ramotswa, Botswana. Zimbabwean Woman Wanted in Botswana for Murder The suspect, identified as Fanes Manyewe, is believed to have committed the crime alongside a Mozambican man, Adriano Caetano. According to police, the pair entered the victim’s home on 5 June 2025, killed her, and then fled the scene in her car. The stolen vehicle has since been recovered. Botswana Police confirmed the murder in a public notice and said a manhunt is now underway for the two suspects. “Ramotswa Police have launched a search for suspects following the murder of a 38-year-old woman in Ramotswa on 05/06/2025. Preliminary investigation suggested that the attackers entered the house and murdered the victim before fleeing the crime scene with her car. The car has since been recovered,” part of the notice reads. _*’Uthini wena Temu Ndlozi?’: McKenzie clashes with EFF’s Sihle Lonzi over illegal foreigners*_ PA leader and sport, arts and culture minister Gayton McKenzie has responded to EFF student command leader Sihle Lonzi’s accusations that he has abandoned his cause to fight against illegal immigrants. Lonzi claimed McKenzie has not proposed any legislation on the subject, despite his party’s stance on the issue.New members who wish to receive daily news updates from Ignite Media Zimbabwe should WhatsApp ‘join’ to 071 9999 012. “The PA does not care about illegal foreigners,” Lonzi said. “Never let them lie to you. Its leader McKenzie is now a minister. He has never proposed legislation on the subject, not even a private member’s bill as an MP. He is just enjoying blue lights.” McKenzie swiftly responded to Lonzi’s accusations, asking, “Uthini wena Temu Ndlozi? (What are you saying Ndlozi from Temu?). Start by telling us, do you even care?” Lonzi, however, was unfazed and accused McKenzie of avoiding parliamentary committee meetings. “You must stop running away from parliament committee meetings. I will take you to the cleaners.” The debate stems from social media users’ concerns about McKenzie’s perceived change of attitude towards illegal foreigners. However, McKenzie has always reaffirmed his stance against illegal immigration, saying his party’s mission remains unchanged. “I speak up for Abahambe [they must leave] in closed government meetings and PA rallies. I have and will never change my stance regarding the mass deportation of all illegal foreigners but to expect me to only speak about immigration when there is a home affairs minister is wrong. Abahambe is our mission as the PA. We have and will never change. We have taken a decision to fight from within the GNU.” _*7 people dead as massive snow, heavy rain and deadly weather wrecks havoc across South Africa, N2 highway closed*_ CAPE TOWN, South Africa -- At least seven people have died in flooding in South Africa after a weather front bringing heavy rain and snow hit eastern and southern provinces, officials said Tuesday. A bus carrying high school students was swept away in the floods in the Eastern Cape province and an unknown number of children were missing, the provincial government said in a statement. Three children were rescued after they clung onto trees, according to the South African National Taxi Council, which said the bus was operated by one of its members. _*Warriors crash out of 2025 COSAFA Cup tournament*_ Zimbabwe senior men’s football team, Tuesday crashed out of the 2025 COSAFA Cup tournament despite beating Mozambique 3-1. The Warriors were cost by goal difference as they finished on the same number of points (4) as group winners South Africa. Zimbabwe finished with a zero on goal difference as Tuesday’s 3-1 win cancelled Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to South Africa, which eventually finished with a plus one goal difference after playing a nil-all draw against Mauritius. Tuesday’s match was Zimbabwe’s best since the start of the tournament last week as they managed to register their only win at the tournament, at the same time ending a goal drought that had prevailed from matchday one. _*Senegal hand England 1st ever loss to African team in 3:1 win*_ Senegal became the first African team to beat England in 22 games on Tuesday, winning 3-1 in a friendly at Nottingham's City Ground thanks to goals from Ismaïla Sarr, Habib Diarra and Cheikh Sabaly. Senegal stretched their unbeaten streak to 24 games, while England's loss, which included a disallowed late goal from Jude Bellingham for a handball in the build-up, was their first defeat in four games under new manager Thomas Tuchel. "Not good enough," captain Harry Kane told ITV. "We had moments, but with and without the ball things aren't clicking, we're not finding the right tempo. We've lost that aggressive nature that we had." England -- with 10 changes from Saturday's 1-0 lacklustre World Cup qualifying win over Andorra -- took the lead when Kane struck in the seventh minute after Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy saved Anthony Gordon's shot but spilled the ball into the striker's path. The hosts conceded for the first time under Tuchel when Sarr caught Kyle Walker napping to poke in Nicolas Jackson's cross in the 40th minute. The visitors doubled their lead in the 62nd when Diarra latched onto a ball over the top then fired through goalkeeper Dean Henderson's legs. Sabaly struck deep into stoppage time, prompting boos from England fans after the final whistle. _*Liverpool agree fee for Wirtz*_ Florian Wirtz is set for a Liverpool medical after they agreed a deal in principle with Bayer Leverkusen for the 22-year-old Germany midfielder, worth £127m including add-ons *Arsenal have agreed a fee of about £59m with Real Sociedad for Spain midfiel