*Morning News: Monday 9 June 2025* *Headlines* *"Mandatory Retesting Applies Only To Public Service Vehicle Drivers, Not Private Motorists"* *'Embrace Culture Of Responsible Waste Disposal & Recycling For A Clean, Safe & Healthy Environment': Mnangagwa* *Bed Bugs Crawl Into Bulawayo* *Govt Pushes For Nationwide Access To Data Controller Training* *Police Officer On The Run After Flogging Suspect To Death; Victim's Burial Hangs In The Balance* *Fraudster Arrested For Blowing Over r US$16,000 In Botched Car Deal* *Red Cross Halts Operations In Niger After Government Directive* *Gaza Aid Sites Branded ‘Human Slaughterhouses’ Under Deadly Israeli Fire* *Portugal Beat Spain In Penalty Shootout To Win Second Nations League Crown* *First Black Premier League Referee Dies Aged 65* Join our *Ad-free* News Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VacXkvFJJhzd2UoZYF1F *Stories in Detail:* *"Mandatory Retesting Applies Only To Public Service Vehicle Drivers, Not Private Motorists"* The Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Felix Mhona, has dismissed claims suggesting that all licensed drivers in Zimbabwe will soon be required to undergo mandatory retesting after a fixed period. Speaking to The Sunday Mail, Minister Mhona clarified that there is no such proposal currently under consideration by the Government, and no blanket retest policy has been introduced. He said: There is no new proposal for a blanket retest system for all drivers. The recent confusion stemmed from misinterpretations of the SADC licence renewal process and existing professional driver regulations. Minister Mhona explained that, in accordance with Statutory Instrument 168 of 2006, the mandatory five-year retesting requirement applies specifically to drivers of public service vehicles (PSVs) and to those operating haulage or freight vehicles with a carrying capacity exceeding 10 tonnes. For holders of ordinary driver’s licences, however, the recently introduced Southern African Development Community (SADC) driver’s licence, although valid for five years, does not require a full retest upon renewal. Instead, licence renewal will involve the updating of biometric data and the submission of a valid medical report. Added Mhona: Driving is a profession. Retesting separates professional driving from ordinary driving. This is key for maintaining a robust database for professional drivers, ensuring their ongoing competence and adherence to evolving regulations and meticulously screening drivers by vehicle category, age (PSV drivers must be between 30 and 70 years old) and health (requiring annual medical examinations for PSV drivers). Furthermore, the retest acts as a crucial gatekeeper against fake licences through a system verification process and rigorously checking compliance with essential documents like defensive driving certificates and hazardous chemicals certifications. The system further mandates that public service vehicle (PSV) drivers must have a minimum of five years’ driving experience prior to certification. Its principal function is to ensure compliance with these critical requirements, including the verification of documentation and the successful completion of a practical road test. Minister Mhona stressed that Zimbabwe’s approach is consistent with established professional licensing standards, both internationally and within the region. He said: The retesting of certain driver categories is not unique to Zimbabwe. The United Kingdom, for instance, implements retesting for the ‘D’ driving licence category (passenger-carrying drivers) with intervals dependent on vehicle category and driver age. Furthermore, within our own Government, one cannot drive an official vehicle before undergoing a retest, and similarly, some private companies conduct tests before allowing drivers to operate company vehicles. This underscores the principle of ensuring heightened competency for those entrusted with greater responsibility on the road. *'Embrace Culture Of Responsible Waste Disposal & Recycling For A Clean, Safe & Healthy Environment': Mnangagwa* HARARE waste collection crisis will soon be over as Geo Pomona Waste Sorting Plant, vehicles and equipment were commissioned by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in Harare this Thursday. Addressing government officials, investors and Zanu PF supporters at the Geo Pomona waste management dump site in Borrowdale, President Mnangagwa warned Zimbabweans to desist from illegal dumping. "As we roll out the modern waste collection system, I urge all of us Zimbabweans to desist from illegal dumping. "Let us embrace a culture of responsible waste disposal, recycling, and environmental stewardship in order to realise our goal of a clean, safe, and healthy environment," President Mnangagwa said. He said the waste collection crisis, particularly in the capital city of Harare has had dire consequences ranging from environmental degradation to public health risks, among other negative impacts. "We have seen outbreaks of diseases, a situation that is wholly unacceptable. Such conditions must become a thing of the past. The plant and the trucks we are commissioning today mark a turning point in our quest towards efficiency in wasteanagement. "Therefore, in line with Vision 2030, my government will continue to prioritize the creation of clean, safe and modern urban environments, which are engines of economic growth. I am, therefore, pleased with the acquisition and deployment of 45 refuse trucks and 100 skip bins by Geo Pomona, with more on the way to come. "Congratulations, Pomona. Through the pages of this equipment, we must see the waste management system being capacitated to efficiently and consistently collect waste across all parts of Harare," Mnangagwa said. He also urged all the players in all towns and cities to take a leaf from such initiatives towards improving waste management in the country. Referring to the Geo Pomona waste sorting plant, the President described it as a "beacon of nation’s potential." "The facility is a beacon of our national potential. It represents how infrastructure, when aligned to a national vision, can transform lives, protect the environment, and drive economic growth. It is important to note that waste is not just waste. "Waste is actually a resource. With this modern sorting facility, recyclable materials can be recovered, repurposed, and reintegrated into the economy," he said. Mnangagwa added that waste sorting plant is a critical enabler of the Waste to Energy Project, which will soon contribute between 16 and 22 megawatts of electricity to the national grid. "This is a solution that exemplifies innovation and modernisation." He acknowledged the management and the staff of Geo- Pomona waste management led by its CEO Delish Nguwaya for their clarity of role, not only towards a greener planet but also advancing the realisation of national development goals. "Your accomplishments thus far are applauded and inspirational to others in our region and continent. However, the responsibility of waste management does not lie with Geo Pomona alone. It is the duty of every Zimbabwean." The event coincided with the World Environment Day celebrations Thursday as Zimbabweans joined the rest of the world in celebrating their shared mission of protecting the environment for the present and future generations. The Geo Pomona Waste Management, (Private) Limited is a product of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) venture involving the Harare City Council. *NewZW* *Bed Bugs Crawl Into Bulawayo* THE bloodsuckers have landed in Bulawayo and residents of Mpopoma’s Ward Nine are scratching, spraying and suffering as bed bugs turn their lives into a crawling, itching nightmare. After months of laughing at Harare’s viral memes of people battling bed bug infestations, reality has struck Bulawayo, hard. The biting beasts are now sinking their fangs into residents of Block 46 and the flats behind Patapata Beer Garden, leaving a trail of itchy bodies, sleepless nights and rising frustration. When our Bulawayo Bureau visited the area, a woman from Block 46, with face, neck and hands covered in angry red welts, was scratching furiously as she relived her agony. "These bugs have turned our lives into a nightmare," she said. "We haven’t had a peaceful night in weeks. They bite my kids too. We’ve tried everything. Nothing works." The bites are bad. The embarrassment is worse. Some residents say the shame is keeping them silent. "It’s hard to talk about," said Miss Siphiwe Moyo, another victim. "People will laugh at you. But we are suffering. We are tired. We can’t sleep at all. These bugs are winning." Residents claim they have alerted the Bulawayo City Council, only to be told to pay US$47 per household for fumigation. Many can’t afford it. "That amount is simply out of reach for most of our elderly residents," said Ward 9 Residents’ Chairperson Mr Stanslous Dube. "The infestation is real. Block 46 and the flats near Patapata are the worst-hit. People are begging for help." Ward Secretary for Environment Mr Dumisani Moyo added, "This problem is spreading, and many are too ashamed to report it. We’re pleading with the government for intervention." Ward Councillor Donaldson Mabutho promised to visit the affected areas. But Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart had no comment, saying he hadn’t received an official report yet. What started in Harare has now spread its itchy grip to Bulawayo. In Harare, entire suburbs have been battling the bugs since early this year. Now, experts warn that if left unchecked, Mpopoma’s outbreak could explode across the city. The Ministry of Health and Child Care, together with local councils and pest control firms, have launched fumigation campaigns across schools and hospitals in the country, with mixed results. "Many people are boiling water, using paraffin, or experimenting with homemade remedies," said a health source. "But bed bugs are tough. They hide in furniture, clothing, luggage, and they’re spreading fast." Warm temperatures make things worse, so residents are relatively better-off in the cold winter. Heat speeds up their breeding, and Zimbabwe’s dry season gives them the perfect environment to multiply and invade new homes. This is not just a Zimbabwean disaster. Bed bugs are a global menace. Paris was in panic during the 2023 Fashion Week, as hotels and trains were crawling with the bugs. New York, Chicago, London, Johannesburg, Mumbai and Sydney have all reported major outbreaks in homes, cinemas, hospitals and transport systems. Once they strike, bed bugs are almost impossible to eliminate without professional fumigation, and even then, reinfestation is common if communities don’t act together. Health experts are calling for a national emergency response, warning that the pests are more than just a nuisance. They cause mental stress, insomnia, and long-term skin problems. More worryingly, their presence highlights gaps in urban sanitation. *Herald* *Govt Pushes For r Nationwide Access To Data Controller Training* Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera has urged the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) to prioritise decentralisation and devolution in data controlling training. Addressing stakeholders at the inaugural Data Controlling License handover ceremony in Harare, Mavetera said POTRAZ should ensure that aspiring data controllers in other areas have equal access to training and certification. "We need to prioritise decentralisation and devolution of this training, which will ensure that aspiring data controllers in Bulawayo, Mutare, Binga, Masvingo, Gweru and beyond have equal access to training and certification, eliminating the need for costly and inconvenient travel to the capital, Harare. Training must be accessible, equitable, and sustainable,’’ said Mavetera. She said the initiative is a testament of government’s commitment to safeguard personal data, promoting accountability and fostering trust in the digital economy thus everyone should access it. Mavetera said many have asked them to customize and allow even those who are still starting to be given a different price in the training of data controlling licence. She said these licences are not just a regulatory requirement, but they are a strategic tool to ensure the country’s digital transformation is secure, inclusive and aligned with international standards which is why it is important for it to be done in the whole of Zimbabwe. "I therefore call upon the regulator to partner with all state universities and tertiary institutions to make this training accessible and nationwide. No Zimbabwean should be left behind due to geographical constraints," she said. She also said there is need for Zimbabwe to set the pace and create regional standards that follow SADC member states, that can also benchmark us when developing more training programmes. "Zimbabwe stands ready to share with its peers in SADC its experience and knowledge in Data Controller training," said Mavetera. *263chat* *Police Officer On The Run After Flogging Suspect To Death; Victim's Burial Hangs In The Balance* THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed that 12 days on, one of its regular officers who allegedly flogged a suspect to death, is still on the run. Constable Prince Ndavambi is reported to have assaulted Believe Blessed Jaravange (30) at Ruwa Police Station until he died. The incident followed Juruvenge’s arrest on May 27, 2025, following an altercation with a fellow resident, Mwazha/Maphosa, who reported him for assault and theft. Upon detention, the now deceased was told by Ndavambi that he would return home in a coffin, a source told NewZimbabwe.com. The now deceased’s sister, Mellisa Manyepa was also victimised by assailant on the same day her brother was taken into custody. Her crime was allegedly harbouring a person on police’s wanted list. Manyepa narrated events of the fateful day to NewZimbabwe.com. "On 28 May I was informed about my brothers death and I was shown his body. "We reported the matter to Police General Headquarters and Commissioner Paul Nyathi called Ruwa Police Station ordering the Officer-In-Charge to have Ndavambi arrested. But until now Ndavambi hasn’t been arrested yet he always posts statuses on his WhatsApp. "When I try to call him his phone says the number is not available meaning that he blocked my calls," said Manyepa. In a statement, the ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said Ndavambi will face justice for his deeds. "Sadly, Constable Ndavambi disappeared as his arrest was imminent. He is currently on the run. Efforts to arrest him are underway for the law to take its course without fear or favour. "The Commissioner-General of Police, Stephen Mutamba has made it clear that the law is the law and that no one will sweep this disturbing case under the carpet," police sais in the statement. "Police will ensure that the suspect, Prince Ndavambi’s docket is swiftly concluded and presented to the court for prosecution. We are currently appealing for information which may lead to his location and subsequent arrest. "He will face the full wrath of the law. The exact charge to be faced by Prince Ndavambi will be determined by the courts based on the police inquiry and full post-mortem results." Futhermore, the ZRP has filed two separate autopsies and have informed the deceased’s family to conduct theirs if not satisfied. "Police has also noted with concern, conflicting reports on the post-mortem results. For the record, two post-mortem examinations have been conducted by Pathologist Doctor Guillen and Doctor Jabangwe. The Juruvenge’s family is still free to engage another independent pathologist of their own choice in line with the country’s laws," said Nyathi. As the investigations continue, the family is left in a limbo regarding Juruvenge’s final burial date. "We are going to wait for the results before we bury him, though some family members are of the opinion we should sign the burial order. But if we sign, the matter will lose value and justice might delay," Manyepa told this publication. The family has since engaged human right lawyers to assist in the unfolding matter. *NewZW* *Fraudster Arrested For Blowing Over r US$16,000 In Botched Car Deal* A HARARE man has been arrested for allegedly receiving over US$16,000 to import a vehicle but later converted the money to his personal use. The 52-year-old fraudster was identified as Isaac Dhliwayo. Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) national spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrest. "On June 5, 2025, police in Harare arrested Isaac Dhliwayo (52) in connection with a case of fraud. The suspect allegedly misrepresented to the complainant that he would facilitate the importation of a 2016 Honda Vezel valued at US$14,000. "The complainant paid the suspect US$16,130 cash, which was supposed to cover the importation costs and sundry expenses. "However, the suspect failed to deliver the vehicle and instead converted the money to his own use," said Nyathi The payments were made between November 2024 and April 2025. Accused person is expected in court soon. *NewZW* *Red Cross Halts Operations In Niger After Government Directive* The International Committee of the Red Cross says it has suspended its operations in Niger after the West African nation's government ordered the closure of its offices, citing alleged collusion with armed groups. Niger junta leader Abdourahamane Tchiani said in an interview with state television in late May that the organisation had been expelled in February, accusing it of meeting and collaborating with Islamist insurgent leaders. The ICRC denied the allegations. "To fulfil its humanitarian mandate to protect and assist victims of armed conflict, the ICRC engages in a spoken or written dialogue with all parties to a conflict," it said in a statement on Thursday. The organisation said it "never provides those parties with financial, logistical or other support." The ICRC, which has worked in Niger for 35 years, said it regretted the government's decision. It said it had immediately removed all foreign personnel from Niger earlier this year after authorities ordered it to do so, while remaining available for dialogue to understand what drove the decision and provide clarification. It added that attempts to discuss the situation were unsuccessful. "Our priority in Niger has been to help the most vulnerable people affected by ongoing armed conflicts and to do so with transparency, independence, neutrality and impartiality," ICRC Regional Director Patrick Youssef said in the statement. Around 4.5 million people, or 17% of Niger's population, required aid in 2024 due to a humanitarian crisis driven by insecurity, epidemics, and natural disasters, according to the United Nations. Niger's junta staged a coup in 2023 that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. Following the coup, Niger's authorities, like military rulers in Mali and Burkina Faso, expelled French and other Western forces and sought support from Russia as they battle militant groups. *Reuters* *Gaza Aid Sites Branded ‘Human Slaughterhouses’ Under Deadly Israeli Fire* At least 13 Palestinians have been killed and more than 150 injured after Israeli troops and American security contractors opened fire on crowds waiting for food near two aid distribution sites in Gaza, one east of Rafah and another near the Wadi Gaza Bridge. Sunday’s killings are the latest in a series of attacks on civilians seeking food at aid centres operated by the controversial Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a US-led initiative backed by Israel in Israeli-controlled zones. More than 130 people have now been killed and more than 700 wounded by Israeli troops while desperately trying to access meagre food parcels for their hungry families from the aid sites since the GHF programme began on May 27. At least nine people are still missing. In a statement, Gaza’s Government Media Office condemned the distribution sites as "human slaughterhouses", accusing Israeli forces of luring desperate civilians to their deaths. "These are war crimes and crimes against humanity," the statement said, urging an independent international probe and an immediate suspension of GHF’s delivery model. The drive backed by Israel and the United States has faced growing criticism from human rights organisations and the United Nations for violating basic humanitarian standards and bypassing organisations that have decades of experience distributing aid to the entire population of the besieged enclave. ‘This is a trap for us, not aid’ The latest bloodshed reportedly began around 6am local time (03:00 GMT), as hundreds of Palestinians stalked by starvation gathered near the aid point in the al-Alam area of Rafah. Witnesses said people had started forming queues as early as 4:30am, desperate to get food before the site became overwhelmed. "After about an hour and a half, hundreds moved toward the site, and the army opened fire," said witness Abdallah Nour al-Din. The Israeli military later said its troops opened fire on individuals who "continued advancing in a way that endangered the soldiers", and claimed the area had been designated an "active combat zone" at night. However, survivors insist the shooting took place after sunrise. "This is a trap for us, not aid," said Adham Dahman, speaking to the Associated Press from Nasser Hospital in southern Gaza with a bloodied bandage on his chin. He said a tank fired towards the crowd, and people were left scrambling for cover. Doctors Without Borders (MSF) said that 13 wounded individuals and one person who was dead on arrival came to its clinic in the al-Mawasi area of southern Khan Younis today. MSF said the injured and dead were "carried in donkey carts, on bicycles, or on foot". The wounded were all men between the ages of 17 and 30. The victims said they were shot in the Shakoush area while travelling to a food distribution site in Saudi village. Footage from outside the hospital showed mourning families weeping over blood-soaked shrouds, as emergency workers rushed to treat the wounded. UN Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories Francesca Albanese called the GHF operation "humanitarian camouflage" and "an essential tactic of this genocide". People carry relief supplies from the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) on June 8, 2025. The UN and major aid organisations have refused to cooperate with the GHF, citing concerns that it was designed to cater to Israeli military objectives. [Eyad Baba/AFP] People carry relief supplies on June 8, 2025 after they have been distributed by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), which the United Nations and major aid organisations have refused to cooperate with, citing concerns that GHF was designed to cater to Israeli military objectives [Eyad Baba/AFP] In a post on social media, Albanese blamed "the moral and political corruption of the world" for enabling the destruction of Gaza. Al Jazeera’s correspondent Hani Mahmoud, reporting from Gaza City, said the GHF’s delivery model has proven woefully inadequate. "Today’s deadly attacks in the south show that the GHF is insufficient in the way it’s running aid delivery," he said. "In the north, living conditions are becoming even more difficult. People are not just spending hours searching for water and food — they are spending the entire day. By the end of it, many are completely exhausted and dehydrated, simply because they could not find anything." An unnamed GHF official claimed there has been no violence in or around its aid distribution sites, all three of which delivered food on Sunday, according to The Associated Press. Hospitals overwhelmed The violence comes as Gaza’s Health Ministry reports that the total death toll from Israel’s ongoing war has reached 54,880, with more than 126,000 injured since October 7, 2023. Since Israel ended a ceasefire on March 18, 4,603 Palestinians have been killed and more than 14,000 injured. In just the last 24 hours, Israeli strikes have killed at least 108 people and wounded nearly 400 more across the besieged enclave, the ministry said. Hospitals are overwhelmed and on the brink of collapse, the ministry said. Rafah’s Red Cross Field Hospital has declared 12 mass casualty emergencies in just two weeks, with more than 900 wounded arriving during that period — 41 of them already dead. Most of those treated had been trying to reach food distribution sites when they were shot or injured. A spokesman at Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir el-Balah warned that fuel supplies for Gaza’s health facilities may run out within 48 hours, leaving patients without care. "The hospital’s artificial kidney department is out of service due to the occupation’s attacks," he told Al Jazeera. Meanwhile, the director of al-Shifa Hospital told Al Jazeera that the lives of 300 kidney failure patients hang in the balance. "We are facing a real disaster in the hospital if electricity is not provided," he warned. *al Jazeera* *Portugal Beat Spain In Penalty Shootout To Win Second Nations League Crown* Cristiano Ronaldo was in tears as Portugal picked up their second Nations League title by beating holders Spain 5-3 on penalties following a thrilling 2-2 draw in the final. Ronaldo’s 138th international goal took the final on Sunday to a shootout, with Alvaro Morata’s miss proving costly for Spain as Ruben Neves struck the winning spot kick to spark wild scenes of celebration, with emotion overwhelming the veteran captain. Spain’s exhilarating 5-4 victory over France in Thursday’s semifinal ensured Luis de la Fuente’s side had continued an unbeaten run that stretched back to March 2023 coming into Sunday’s showpiece final in Munich. They appeared on course for yet another trophy, on the back last year’s European Championship triumph, as Martin Zubimendi tapped home his second international goal in the 21st minute. The holders’ lead did not last long, however, as flying Portugal full-back Nuno Mendes slotted home the equaliser after good work from Ronaldo in the build-up. A sublime pass from midfielder Pedri helped Mikel Oyarzabal, who netted the winner against England in last year’s European Championship final, restore Spain’s lead before the break. The football tussle between the Iberian neighbours was billed as a clash between old and new – 40-year-old and five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo and Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal. While Yamal, among the favourites to take home one of the most prestigious individual awards this year, struggled to make inroads, Ronaldo pounced on his chance, firing Portugal level from close range just past the hour mark. Ronaldo went off injured late on, and neither side could find a winner in extra time, with the game going to a shootout and Portugal netting all five of their penalties to claim the trophy. Earlier on Sunday, Kylian Mbappe led France to third place with a 2-0 win over host nation Germany in Stuttgart. The Real Madrid star scored one goal and set up the other for Michael Olise as France recovered from a lethargic first half. *BBC* *First Black Premier League Referee Dies Aged 65* Uriah Rennie, the Premier League's first black referee, has died aged 65. Rennie officiated more than 300 games between 1997 and 2008, including 175 Premier League matches. "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former chair and trailblazing referee, Uriah Rennie," said a Sheffield & Hallamshire County Football Association statement., external "Uriah made history as the Premier League's first Black referee, officiating over 300 top-flight matches between 1997 and 2008. He broke down barriers, shaped our football community and inspired generations to come." Rennie recently revealed he was learning to walk again after a rare condition left him paralysed from the waist down. Born in Jamaica, he moved to Sheffield as a child and grew up in the Wybourn area of the city. He started refereeing in local football in 1979 before making history in 1997 when he oversaw the top-flight match between Derby County and Wimbledon. "Incredibly sad news about the passing of Uriah Rennie. A Black pioneering referee and leader in the game," said Leon Mann, co-founder of the Football Black List. "We owe so much to those who push open the doors. Uriah should never, ever be forgotten. "Thoughts and prayers with Uriah's family and close friends." Rennie had been a magistrate in Sheffield since 1996 and campaigned on issues including improving equality and inclusion in sport, mental health and tackling deprivation. He had a master's degree in business administration and law and, in November 2023, was awarded an honorary doctorate by Sheffield Hallam University for his distinguished contributions to sport and his work with South Yorkshire communities. In May, Rennie was installed as the new chancellor of the university. *BBC*