It’s Been a While… Rediscovering Rat Meat as a Culinary and Nutritional Treasure I have been a bit underground, trying to find balance. Whilst underground, some vivid memories came to mind. An underground rodent that is also meat. The mere thought or mention of eating a rat may end up with some of you in the ICU or cause goosebumps. However, for many grounded people around the world, rat meat is a much-anticipated culinary treat. The only challenge is that it’s hunted, not domesticated like poultry and other livestock. During World War II, some POWs at Changi Camp are said to have survived only on rat meat. The only sad thing is they did not know it was rat meat until they were released. Our old man used to go to the pub on weekends and would always bring us some surprise delicacies. Top of the list was the humble rat, roasted and tasty. That is how we got a taste of traditional culinary delights like birds, ishwa, and duck meat. Today, we go underground to explore rat meat and how this sharp-mouthed animal has the potential to transform our dinner tables and livelihoods too! The diversity of our cuisine is what makes it so mysterious. After reading this article, the Government at large may need to consider embracing rats as part of gastronomy instead of fighting for their extinction. Rat meat, when roasted, mostly tastes lean, slightly gamey, with a faintly sweet or nutty undertone. Some say it tastes like wild chicken or rabbit meat. According to Neurostew, the nutritional value of rat meat is heartier than we can ever imagine. An average rat, weighing 300g, contains a surprising number of calories at 648. It’s packed with 63g protein and 33g fat. Neurostew compares this to 300g of lamb shoulder, interestingly, lamb shoulder only provides 402 Calories, 61g of protein, and fewer grams of fat, at only 16. According to an FAO report, at least 11 species of rodents are used throughout Central and South America as sources of meat, and a similar number of species are consumed throughout Africa. In Zimbabwe, the most common place to find **rat meat** is along major highways outside the city. Traders often sell them roasted and skewered on sticks to passing drivers. In rural markets, rat meat can be found in open-air markets. In farming communities, local boys and hunters catch them in maize fields after the harvest. In some countries, rats are not just a rodent but a way of life and part of tradition, handed down from generation to generation. Several rodent species in South and Central America are highly appreciated as culinary items, and some are even farmed much like pigs and cows. East Africa, in Malawi, they are said to hunt field mice in cornfields for food. They string the mice on sticks and cook them. Salted or dried, the mice are a popular delicacy in markets and roadside stalls in both urban and rural Malawi. Rodent meat is so popular in some Asian countries that it is even sold in supermarkets. “Rats are tinned in the Philippines, sold as STAR meat (rats spelled backwards) in supermarkets, often eaten at weddings in Vietnam, and usually considered a delicacy by most Southeast Asians.” Cambodia exports up to 2 tonnes of wild rats to Vietnam per day at the peak of the “rat season.” So next time you buy tinned meat from across the oceans, be sure you know what you are partaking in. The state of West Virginia showcases rat stew as part of its traditional local cuisine. The cleaned, skinned animals are cut up and dropped into a bubbling broth along with wild onions, garlic, and other local vegetables and served at gatherings or family dinners. Creative Ways to Prepare Rat Meat A recipe for grilled rats, Bordeaux-style, calls for the use of alcoholic rats that live in wine cellars. These rats are skinned and eviscerated, brushed with a thick sauce of olive oil and crushed shallots, and grilled over a fire of broken wine barrels. Rat pie is a dish that straddled the classes in Victorian Britain. Traditionally a delicacy from the north of England, one recipe for rat pie that appeared in the Sheffield Independent newspaper on 22 April 1879 suggests preparing and cooking it in the same way as a rabbit pie. The rats should have their tails and skin removed before being dressed and washed and cut into four pieces. It was also recommended that the meat should be combined with a little pork fat before being encased in pastry, to create a sort of jelly like an aspic. Sometimes rats would be fried in hot oil to remove all the hair, or they could be skinned and boiled. Nutritional Value of Rat Meat Rat meat is a rich source of lean protein, essential minerals like iron and zinc, and healthy fats, nutritional content varies by species, such as the African Giant Rat. Vitamins & Minerals: Rich in potassium, zinc, magnesium, and phosphorus, especially within limb muscle and brain tissues. ([Source: ResearchGate] (https://www.researchgate.net/publication/49588431_The_Nutrient_Composition_of_the_African_Rat)) Caution Rat meat can be safe to eat if it comes from clean, plant-eating wild populations and is cooked completely, but urban rats are unsafe and carry serious diseases. Wild rats may carry parasites or pathogens, meaning proper cooking and sourcing are critical for safe consumption. City rats are not recommended for consumption. Disclaimer: The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek medical advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here. Dr Precious Sibiya is a stroke survivor and advocate for natural healing. She is also a mother of 4 sons, sister, daughter, friend, and mentor. An avid Wellness Practitioner, she can be reached at: Email: precioussibiya2014@gmail.com Mobile: 0775 369467 Rat meat nutrition in Zimbabwe

By Staff Reporter | Harare Zimbabwe is set to make the teaching of indigenous languages compulsory in schools from next year as the Government accelerates implementation of the Heritage-Based Curriculum (HBC) across the education system. The policy will affect public, private and independent schools, including institutions that offer international curricula such as Cambridge. Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerayi Moyo said indigenous languages would become mandatory from Early Childhood Development (ECD) through Grade 7 from 2027, with learners expected to study and write a vernacular language appropriate to their geographical location. “We held a meeting three weeks ago with officials from the Cambridge Examination Syndicate, where we agreed that starting next year it will be compulsory for all the schools in Zimbabwe to offer vernacular languages for all the students from ECE, Early Childhood Education A, Early Childhood Education B right up to Grade 7,” Moyo said recently. “There will be no exemptions in terms of the writing of vernacular languages. It becomes mandatory for every child from ECE right up to Grade 7.” The policy means learners in different parts of the country will generally study indigenous languages associated with their communities. Moyo gave the example of learners in Binga being required to study and write Tonga. The Government has also indicated that by 2028, every learner will be required to have passed at least one indigenous language, extending the policy beyond primary education. Cambridge schools also affected The indigenous-language requirement is part of a broader Government push to make the Heritage-Based Curriculum the national framework for all schools. Earlier this year, the Government announced that ZIMSEC examinations would become mandatory for schools from 2027, although institutions wishing to continue offering Cambridge examinations may do so alongside the national system, subject to approval. The government has repeatedly stressed that international curricula cannot replace Zimbabwe's national curriculum. The Ministry said the position was necessary to ensure that learners receive a common educational foundation rooted in Zimbabwe's history, culture, languages and national development priorities. The move followed concerns that some private and independent schools were offering foreign languages such as French and Chinese while indigenous Zimbabwean languages were receiving less attention. Moyo has previously said the Government values all 16 officially recognised languages and does not intend to make only Shona or Ndebele compulsory nationally. Instead, the policy takes account of the language communities in different parts of Zimbabwe. Heritage-Based Curriculum takes centre stage The indigenous-language policy forms part of a wider rollout of the Heritage-Based Curriculum, which places greater emphasis on practical skills, innovation, problem-solving, entrepreneurship, technology and indigenous knowledge. The Government says the curriculum is intended to produce learners who can apply their education to real-world problems and contribute to national development. Moyo has argued that education should not be limited to academic achievement but should equip learners to create goods and services and solve problems within their communities. School-based projects are therefore expected to play a greater role, with learners encouraged to identify challenges around them, research possible solutions and develop practical responses. The Government has already begun implementing the HBC across schools, with the first public examinations under the revised curriculum being introduced during the 2026 examination cycle. Government addresses private-school concerns The policy has generated debate among schools that have traditionally followed international examination systems. In June, Government reaffirmed that the Heritage-Based Curriculum was compulsory for all learners, including those enrolled in Cambridge programmes, after Cambridge University Press and Assessment appeared to suggest that learners would retain a choice between local and international curricula. The Ministry subsequently clarified that Cambridge qualifications could continue but could not substitute the national curriculum. The Government's approach has therefore been to make the Zimbabwean curriculum the foundation while allowing international qualifications to operate as an additional pathway where schools receive the necessary approval. The move towards compulsory indigenous-language education is also intended to strengthen the position of Zimbabwe's languages within the formal education system. While the policy begins with ECD through Grade 7 in 2027, the planned 2028 requirement for learners to have passed an indigenous language would extend its impact into secondary education. For parents and schools, the changes mean greater attention will have to be paid to indigenous-language teaching, teacher availability, learning materials and examination preparation as Zimbabwe moves towards a more standardised national education system. indigenous languages compulsory Zimbabwe

Bundibugyo Strain Lacks Approved Vaccine or Treatment, Seventh Province Reports Case Amid School Concerns in Ituri By Southerton Business Times Newsdesk HARARE —The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to battle its deadliest Ebola outbreak, with over 7,000 cases and nearly 3,400 deaths reported, according to the latest data released on Saturday by Congolese health authorities. Despite the alarming numbers, officials suggest the outbreak may have peaked. This comes as the virus was confirmed in a seventh province, South-Ubangi, located on the DRC's western border with the Central African Republic and Republic of Congo. The outbreak began in mid-May in the northeastern Ituri province and has since spread to remote, conflict-affected zones in eastern and northern DRC. These areas face challenges due to long-standing armed conflicts, weak state presence, and inadequate health infrastructure. Current Status of the Outbreak - Total cases recorded: 7,022 - Deaths: 3,398 - Recoveries: 1,671 “The peak was reached at the beginning of the third week of August,” Congolese government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya stated on X (formerly Twitter). He added that "all indicators show a decrease in the number of cases" and noted that 10 of the 61 health zones affected have not reported new cases for at least 21 days, offering hope for control of the epidemic. Schools Raise Alarm in Ituri Ituri province remains the epicenter of the outbreak, where Ebola cases have been detected in schools soon after students returned from summer holidays. This has led to heightened concern among parents and health officials. “We are very worried because we don’t know which child comes from which family or the health status of those family members,” said Angele Magani, a parent of a student in Bunia, the provincial capital of Ituri. Despite reassurances of safety measures by school authorities, fear persists. School official Roger Mungimbo detailed the precautions in place, including mandatory handwashing with soap and limiting classrooms to 30 pupils to maintain distancing. “We regularly remind children not to touch each other and to wash their hands frequently,” he added. Understanding Ebola and the Bundibugyo Strain Ebola virus disease is a severe and often fatal illness transmitted through direct contact with bodily fluids. It causes symptoms ranging from fever and fatigue to severe bleeding and organ failure. Since its discovery over 50 years ago, Ebola has claimed more than 15,000 lives across Africa. The current epidemic is caused by the *Bundibugyo strain* of the virus. Unlike other Ebola strains, this variant has no approved vaccines or specific treatments at this time. Experimental vaccines and therapies are currently under evaluation. Regional Impact and Implications for Zimbabwe Although Zimbabwe does not share a border with the DRC, the outbreak poses a significant regional health and economic risk. Southern African countries are closely linked through trade, travel, and mineral supply chains, especially for copper and cobalt—materials critical to various industries. Potential disruptions include: - Travel restrictions and increased border health screenings - Impact on mining and logistics routes intertwined with the DRC - Pressure on healthcare systems already managing other public health threats Businesses reliant on regional supply chains should closely monitor developments and follow advisories from health authorities across the Southern African Development Community (SADC). What to Watch Going Forward - Continued trends in new case numbers across affected provinces - Potential virus spread beyond South-Ubangi and into neighboring countries - Progress in clinical trials for the Bundibugyo strain vaccines and treatments - Possible changes to regional border protocols and travel advisories Editor's note: The situation is evolving rapidly. The figures and information quoted reflect the latest official data from Congolese authorities as of Saturday. DRC Ebola outbreak

By Staff Reporter | Harare The Ministry of Health and Child Care has confirmed the recall of two batches of Nifedipine 10mg tablets after quality testing found that the medicines no longer met required specifications. The recall affects batches 112033 and 117367, manufactured by Remedica Ltd, a pharmaceutical company based in Cyprus. In a statement issued on September 12, 2026, the Ministry said the recall was ordered by the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) following its routine post-market surveillance programme. “The Ministry further confirms that the MCAZ notice currently circulating concerning the recall of specific batches of Nifedipine 10mg tablets is genuine and forms part of the Authority’s routine regulatory and post-market surveillance activities,” the Ministry said. Nifedipine is a commonly prescribed medicine used to manage high blood pressure and certain cardiovascular conditions. According to the Ministry, the affected batches were identified after quality testing produced out-of-specification results during stability testing. The recall has been classified as a Class II recall and extends to the retail and consumer levels. MCAZ guidance explains that Class II recalls cover defects that could potentially cause illness or mistreatment but do not meet the threshold for a Class I recall. Examples include products that fail specifications relating to assay, stability, fill or weight, and dissolution. This means affected stock is expected to be withdrawn from the pharmaceutical supply chain, including pharmacies and health facilities, while patients who may already have the affected batches are also covered by the recall. Patients urged to check medicine batches The recall is particularly important for patients who regularly take Nifedipine for hypertension or other cardiovascular conditions. Patients should check the batch number on their medicine packaging to determine whether it is among the affected batches. However, patients taking Nifedipine should not simply stop treatment because of the recall without speaking to a doctor, pharmacist or other qualified healthcare professional. Nifedipine is used to lower blood pressure, and abruptly changing or stopping prescribed treatment without appropriate medical advice can create health risks. Anyone who discovers that they have one of the recalled batches should seek guidance from a pharmacist or healthcare provider on the appropriate replacement. The Ministry's confirmation is part of Zimbabwe's medicines safety system, in which MCAZ monitors medicines already on the market for quality, safety and effectiveness. MCAZ's online services include regulatory systems and an approved human medicines register, although the Authority notes that its online information should not replace professional medical advice. Levodopa/Carbidopa also affected The Ministry also confirmed that the same round of testing identified quality concerns involving Levodopa/Carbidopa tablets, another medicine manufactured by Remedica. Levodopa/Carbidopa is used in the management of Parkinson's disease and Parkinsonism. The development means the latest regulatory action is not confined to Nifedipine and highlights the importance of post-market surveillance in identifying medicines that may fall outside approved quality specifications after reaching the market. MCAZ's recall procedures allow the regulator to remove medicines from the distribution chain when defects are identified, whether the recall is initiated by the manufacturer, supplier or the Authority itself. The Authority classifies recalls according to the potential health risk and can require withdrawal at wholesale, retail or consumer level. What consumers should do Patients who use Nifedipine are advised to check the batch number on their packaging rather than assuming that all Nifedipine 10mg tablets have been affected. Only the specified batches are subject to the recall described by the Ministry. Anyone who is unsure whether their medicine is affected should take the packaging to a registered pharmacy or consult a healthcare professional. The Ministry of Health and Child Care provides pharmaceutical and public-health services as part of its national health system, while MCAZ is responsible for medicines regulation in Zimbabwe. The recall demonstrates why patients should retain medicine packaging where possible, as batch numbers and expiry dates are important when regulators issue safety or quality alerts. For now, the affected Nifedipine batches are being withdrawn while the regulatory process continues. Patients who depend on Nifedipine should therefore check their batch number and seek professional advice if they have one of the recalled batches, rather than discontinuing treatment on their own. Nifedipine recall Zimbabwe

By Staff Reporter | Harare Minnie Baloyi, wife of Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, has marked her 50th birthday by launching a wellness initiative that will begin with a three-month weight-loss challenge offering a total prize pool of US$10 000. The initiative, called the Wellness Plus Movement, is intended to promote healthier lifestyles while taking a broader approach to physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. Baloyi announced the initiative on Facebook, saying reaching the milestone had prompted her to consider how she could use her birthday to contribute to the people and community around her. “As I turned 50 a few days ago, I asked myself ‘what will I do differently?’ to thank the Lord for this gift of half a century of my life,” she said. “I decided to do several initiatives to assist myself, people and society around me. Therefore, I’m launching a Wellness Plus Movement.” US$10 000 up for grabs The first programme under the movement will be a three-month weight-loss challenge targeting participants who meet the organisers' BMI criteria. Participants will be expected to lose at least 10 kilogrammes by December 20, 2026, according to Baloyi's announcement. She said she would personally provide US$10 000 in prize money, with US$5 000 going to the winner, US$3 000 for second place and US$2 000 for the third-placed participant. Baloyi said discussions were also under way with potential partners who could provide additional prizes. “To kickstart the movement, I’m introducing a three-month weight loss challenge whereby the overweight participants will have to lose at least 10 kg before Christmas,” she said. The challenge is open to both men and women, including young people, subject to the eligibility requirements. Participants to document workouts The competition will require participants to demonstrate their commitment to physical activity rather than relying solely on the final weight-loss figure. According to Baloyi, participants will be expected to post at least three workout sessions a week on their social media platforms. They will also undergo weighing or assessment by independent assessors at registration, with further assessments expected as the competition progresses. Baloyi warned that attempts to manipulate the process would result in immediate disqualification. The judging will also consider participants' broader contribution to promoting healthy lifestyles rather than focusing exclusively on the number of kilogrammes lost. A panel comprising health, lifestyle and wellness experts and enthusiasts is expected to be involved in assessing the participants. The organisers are also inviting members of the public to suggest two additional rules for the competition, with Baloyi saying she wants the challenge to be both fair and meaningful. Beyond weight loss Baloyi said the Wellness Plus Movement would extend beyond the competition and promote a more comprehensive approach to wellness. The initiative is expected to incorporate areas such as physical exercise, nutrition, emotional health and spiritual well-being. She also referred to practices including yoga, meditation and herbal care, alongside contemporary approaches to wellness. The broader movement reflects a growing emphasis on wellness programmes that consider health as more than simply body weight or physical fitness. However, participants in the weight-loss challenge will need to approach rapid weight reduction responsibly, particularly where they have existing health conditions or take prescription medicines. Medical professionals generally recommend that significant weight-loss programmes be undertaken safely and with appropriate professional guidance rather than through extreme dieting or excessive exercise. Baloyi's initiative comes as she begins her sixth decade, with the former military officer using the milestone to launch a public-facing programme rather than limiting the celebrations to a personal birthday event. The Wellness Plus Movement is expected to release further details on registration, assessment procedures and additional prizes as preparations for the challenge progress. For now, the headline attraction is the US$10 000 prize pool, but Baloyi says the larger objective is to encourage participants to develop healthier habits that continue beyond the three-month competition. Minnie Baloyi Wellness Plus Movement

By Staff Reporter | Mutasa Seven people have been taken into police custody for questioning after a dramatic traditional court hearing in Mutasa, Manicaland, in which a woman allegedly claimed to be speaking through the spirit of a man murdered almost two years ago. The woman allegedly identified several people she said were involved in the killing of Luckmore Dziire, whose death in October 2024 shocked the Domborutinhira community after his body was found with multiple stab wounds and several body parts reportedly missing. The proceedings were held before Chief Mutasa after Dziire's family sought further answers about the circumstances surrounding his death. Among those named during the hearing were Margaret Marume, Jeremiah Mupunga, Kenny Chirumhanzu, Nyasha Mudeme, Tendai Afonzo, Joseph Alfonso, Christopher and Mangandaire. One of those named, Tendai Afonzo, has already been convicted of Dziire's murder and is serving a 25-year prison sentence following a Mutare High Court ruling earlier this year. The latest allegations, however, have raised questions about whether other people could have been involved in the events surrounding Dziire's death. Claims made during hearing According to reports from the hearing, the woman allegedly spoke as if she were Dziire and described what she claimed happened before and during the attack. She alleged that Dziire had gone to a local shop where he was given food and traditional beer before being given a drink allegedly mixed with an unknown substance. The woman claimed he became drowsy and later fell asleep on a bench. She then alleged that several people surrounded him during the night. “During the night, many people surrounded me. Tendai Alfonso stabbed me with a knife in the neck and chest, while others joined in,” she reportedly said, speaking as though she were Dziire. She further alleged that blood and body parts were removed after the attack for purported ritual or traditional-medicine purposes. The allegations have not been independently established, and those named remain innocent unless proven guilty in court. Family seeks more answers Dziire's brother, Dzidzai Dziire, took the matter before Chief Mutasa because the family believes questions remain unanswered despite Afonzo's conviction. The family has previously said Afonzo indicated during his criminal trial that he did not act alone. That claim has prompted relatives to seek further investigation into whether anyone else participated in the killing. “Alfonso told the court during his trial that he did not commit the act alone. We want to know the full truth about what happened to our relative and whether other people were involved,” relative Jenny Dziire said. “We believe there may have been interference by other people, and we want all these allegations to be thoroughly investigated.” The family has also raised concerns over reports that people may have attempted to influence efforts to secure Afonzo's release from prison. Those claims would require separate investigation and have not been established. Existing conviction The new developments come months after Afonzo was convicted of Dziire's murder. According to the National Prosecuting Authority, Afonzo attacked Dziire at Domborutinhira Business Centre on October 1, 2024, using an okapi knife. Dziire was stabbed multiple times before Afonzo fled. Residents later found Dziire lying in a pool of blood on a shop veranda. A post-mortem examination found that he died from hypovolemic shock caused by severe blood loss. The Mutare High Court subsequently sentenced Afonzo to 25 years in prison, taking into account the seriousness of the offence and the circumstances surrounding the killing. The established court record therefore differs from some of the claims made during the recent traditional hearing. The High Court case resulted in a conviction against Afonzo; the latest proceedings concern allegations that other people may have been involved. Suspects deny allegations Some of the people named during the traditional hearing have denied any involvement in Dziire's death. Marume acknowledged that Dziire had visited the shop on the day of his death but said she knew nothing about his killing. “We had brewed traditional beer for customers at the shop where I work. Luckmore came and asked Joseph for food, as he was eating at the time. He was given food, ate it and left,” she said. Marume said she only learnt about Dziire's death later after receiving a telephone call. Another person identified only as Shupikai also denied an allegation that he had supplied Dziire with alcohol. Their accounts have not been tested in court. Police take over investigation Following the hearing, Chief Mutasa referred the matter to the police. Police officers who attended the proceedings took the people implicated during the hearing into custody for questioning. The development does not amount to a finding of guilt, and investigators will have to establish whether there is admissible evidence linking any of the named individuals to Dziire's murder. The police investigation will also have to distinguish between claims made during the traditional proceedings and evidence that can be independently corroborated. The unusual hearing has nevertheless reopened public interest in a murder that had appeared to have reached a legal conclusion with Afonzo's conviction. For the Dziire family, the central question remains whether the convicted man acted alone. For investigators, the challenge will now be to determine whether the new allegations can be supported by evidence and whether any additional suspects should face criminal charges. Until then, the allegations made during the traditional court hearing remain just that allegations, while Afonzo's conviction for Dziire's murder remains the established outcome of the criminal case. Luckmore Dziire murder

By Staff Reporter | Harare A Zimbabwean senator has questioned the prolonged absence of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira from the Senate, saying a question directed to his ministry has remained unanswered for almost a year. Senator Kucaca Phulu raised the issue during Thursday's Senate sitting, saying the question was due to reach its one-year anniversary the following day. “Madam President, I raised this issue last week. Tomorrow is the 11th September; my question will be one-year-old,” Phulu said. “The minister is not coming and these are important questions. I have not been assured whether Parliament did write a letter asking the minister to come and answer this question and other questions related to his portfolio. This means he has not been in the House for more than one year.” Phulu's remarks centred on the unanswered question and the difficulty senators have faced in obtaining a response from the minister responsible for foreign affairs. The senator also questioned whether Parliament had formally written to Murwira requesting him to appear before the Senate. Murwira absent again Murwira was not listed among the ministers and deputy ministers who tendered apologies for absence at Thursday's sitting, according to the Senate proceedings. The sitting opened with the Deputy President of the Senate reading a lengthy list of apologies from Government officials, including Vice Presidents and ministers responsible for several portfolios. After the list was read, the Deputy President of the Senate expressed concern over ministerial attendance. “Some of these ministers, we never see them in the House. It is very sad,” she said. The issue of ministerial attendance has previously featured in Senate proceedings, where lawmakers have complained that questions directed to absent ministers can remain unanswered for extended periods. Official parliamentary records also show Murwira among ministers who have sent apologies for absence from earlier Senate sittings. For example, the May 14, 2026 Senate Hansard lists Professor Murwira, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, among ministers who had tendered apologies for that sitting. He was similarly listed among ministers who had tendered apologies for the April 9, 2026 Senate sitting. Question remains unanswered Phulu had previously raised the matter during an earlier Senate sitting, saying his question had originally been submitted in September 2025. He complained that neither Murwira nor his deputy had appeared to provide an answer and called on Parliament to intervene. The senator returned to the issue on Thursday, seeking clarification on whether Parliament had formally communicated with the minister over the outstanding question. The Acting President of the Senate, Alice Dube, acknowledged the concern and pointed out that Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, who is the Leader of Government Business in Parliament, was present. “Thank you, Hon. Phulu. I think you said it last week. The Leader of Government Business is here today, and I think he heard what you said. Thank you,” Dube said. Phulu did not repeat the substance of the question during Thursday's exchange. The matter was therefore left without a substantive ministerial response. Questions without answers The episode has again highlighted the role of parliamentary questions as an accountability mechanism through which legislators seek information from Government ministers. Under Parliament's procedures, ministers are expected to respond to questions concerning their portfolios, although their absence can result in questions being deferred. Parliament's official website publishes Senate Hansards documenting proceedings, including ministerial apologies and oral questions. The Hansard Department says its mandate is to produce accurate reports of parliamentary proceedings and make them available through Parliament's website. The latest Senate proceedings were published as the Senate Hansard of September 10, 2026, Volume 35 No. 68. Phulu's complaint now places the outstanding Foreign Affairs question back in the spotlight, with the senator seeking clarity on whether formal steps have been taken to secure a response. For now, however, the question remains unanswered. The controversy also raises broader concerns about ministerial attendance and Parliament's ability to effectively scrutinise Government when ministers responsible for particular portfolios are repeatedly unavailable to answer questions from legislators. Amon Murwira Senate absence

By Mpundu Valerie Some titles are given. Others are earned. At Green Diamond School in Stoneridge, Ward 12, the community recently chose to do both by honouring Hon. Andrew Makahamadze with something more lasting than a certificate a classroom bearing his name. But the recognition was not simply about a name on a door. It was about showing up. And for Makahamadze, the honour appears to have marked the beginning of more work rather than the end of it. In the days after the classroom was named in his honour, he returned to the school and began upgrading the facility. New windows were installed to improve lighting and ventilation. The classroom was tiled and painted, while walling and a new door were added to improve its appearance and security. The room was also fully electrified, meaning learners can potentially use it beyond daylight hours. A whiteboard is expected to be delivered next, followed by computers for Form 4 learners. For Green Diamond School Director Simeon Manzanga, the transformation was both unexpected and deeply appreciated. “It was such a humbling experience to come back and find a whole classroom upgraded the painting, tiling, walling, electricity, and even a door,” Manzanga said. “This isn’t something we take lightly, and we appreciate everything you have done for us. Our learners are happy.” He appealed to Makahamadze to continue supporting other communities. “May you continue with the work, not only for us, but for others too. May the Almighty continue blessing you,” he said. From recognition to action The story of Makahamadze's involvement with the school is part of a wider pattern of community interventions attributed to him. In Chihota, at Mutero Primary School, the community reportedly experienced the same approach after strong winds damaged the school's roof. Rather than simply offering words of encouragement, Makahamadze is said to have arranged for builders to undertake repairs and replace the damaged roof. For him, the interventions are less about recognition than giving back to communities. “You do good, you do for you. If you do bad, the same energy comes back,” Makahamadze said. “This is just giving back.” That philosophy is now attracting attention as the Gunyana Prestigious Awards approach, with conversations in Ward 12 increasingly focusing on community contribution and tangible impact. The question being asked is no longer simply who is popular or well known, but who is making a measurable difference in people's lives. For parents and learners, however, the value of such interventions is practical. An electrified classroom can give learners an opportunity to study after dark. A repaired roof can keep lessons going when heavy rains arrive. A secure door and improved windows can create a more conducive learning environment. And computers can expose learners to skills and opportunities that extend beyond their immediate community. For Form 4 learners preparing for their examinations, access to technology could be particularly important as digital skills increasingly become part of education and employment. A different kind of legacy The classroom at Green Diamond School may ultimately become more than a room carrying the name of a local figure. It can become a physical reminder of what community investment can achieve when recognition is followed by action. There is also a broader lesson in the approach. Schools in many communities face infrastructure challenges that cannot always be addressed through government resources alone. Community leaders, businesses, former pupils and other stakeholders can play an important role in complementing those efforts. The challenge is ensuring that such support produces lasting benefits rather than one-off gestures. At Green Diamond, the work continues. The classroom has been painted and tiled. It has electricity, windows, a new door, and improved walls. A whiteboard is on the way, with computers expected to follow. For the learners who will eventually sit inside that classroom, the significance may have little to do with the name above the door. It will be about what they can do inside it. Perhaps that is the most meaningful measure of a community contribution not the size of the plaque, but the opportunities created behind it. Makahamadze may have been given a title for the classroom. But in Ward 12, the community appears to be measuring his legacy in something more tangible: the places he leaves better than he found them. Because when good deeds earn a title, the real challenge is to make that title a standard. Andrew Makahamadze

By Staff Reporter | Manchester A fresh review has been ordered into the death of Zimbabwean national Tanyaradzwa Julius Matera, whose body lay undiscovered for 56 days in Salford, England. Greater Manchester West Coroner Tim Brennand called on Greater Manchester Police (GMP) to review the case after concluding an inquest into Julius' death on August 28. The coroner found that Julius was likely subjected to an “unwarranted and unlawful attack” involving a bladed weapon, although the formal cause of death remained unascertained because of the advanced decomposition of his body. Julius, 43, was reported missing on October 24, 2023. His body was discovered on December 7 in dense vegetation behind properties on Great Cheetham Street West, near Broughton Cricket and Rugby Club. Police believe he died on the night of October 13 or in the early hours of October 14, meaning his remains remained undiscovered for eight weeks. The new development follows a three-day inquest at Bolton Coroner's Court, where witnesses provided evidence about events surrounding Julius' disappearance and the circumstances in which his body was eventually found. Coroner raises concerns over investigation The inquest heard that Julius had suffered an incised injury to the left side of his neck, which a Home Office pathologist said was likely to have been caused by a sharp instrument. The pathologist could not establish the precise cause of death because of the condition of the body. According to the coroner's findings, the most likely scenario was that Julius was attacked at or near 99 Great Cheetham Street West, where he was known to have spent time. The coroner said the evidence pointed to a possible dispute involving a bottle of cider and a heavily intoxicated assailant who allegedly used a kitchen knife. He said Julius may then have fled the property, falling or climbing over a wall before becoming trapped in dense vegetation. The precise sequence of events remains uncertain. Coroner Brennand also expressed concern about what he described as a possible “conspiracy of silence” surrounding Julius' death and invited GMP's Head of Crime to work with Detective Inspector Rachel Smith on a review of the case. He also raised the possibility that people may have assisted those responsible or that there could have been an attempt to obstruct justice. Three men face no further action Three men, Bennett Benjamin Nkonjera, Josphat Mkonowatsauka and Louis Chirimumvura, were arrested during the investigation and questioned on suspicion of murder. They were subsequently released without charge and told they would face no further action, with GMP saying the evidence did not meet the legal threshold for prosecution. The criminal investigation, however, has remained open. During the inquest, Detective Inspector Rachel Smith told the court that investigators had consulted the Crown Prosecution Service but had not obtained sufficient evidence to charge anyone. The hearing nevertheless produced new information that could prompt investigators to revisit aspects of the case. One witness, Dorothy Wood, told the inquest that she had confronted Nkonjera about Julius' disappearance during a gathering at 99 Great Cheetham Street West. She alleged that Nkonjera fell to his knees, apologised and made statements about Julius being “chopped up”. Nkonjera denied the account. The inquest also heard evidence about the movements of those who were at the property around the time Julius is believed to have died. Vulnerable Zimbabwean remembered Julius moved from Zimbabwe to the United Kingdom in 2001, initially living with family and friends in Leicestershire before moving to Manchester in 2012. He had been waiting for a decision on his immigration status and, because he was not permitted to work, relied on food vouchers and other support. Police described him as vulnerable and said witnesses had reported that people bullied him and took his food vouchers. Despite his difficult circumstances, his family remembered him as a sociable and warm-hearted man. His cousin June Matera, whom Julius called Aunt June, described him as a “joyful spirit” who enjoyed the company of others. “He was an active local community member who enjoyed the company of others and was never a lonely person,” she said in an earlier tribute. “We all miss his contagious laugh. He had a way of making people smile and a chuckle that captured his joyful spirit.” June has welcomed the decision to review the case, saying the family still hopes Julius will eventually receive justice. “It is sad and heartbreaking that Julius could not get the justice that he deserved,” she said. “We pray that Julius' soul rests in eternal peace and that one day justice will prevail. Time will tell.” Julius was buried at Peel Green Cemetery in Eccles on December 18, 2024. £50,000 reward remains available GMP launched several appeals for information following Julius' death. In October 2025, two years after his death, police announced a £50,000 reward for information leading to a conviction. Detective Inspector Smith said investigators believed someone in the community had information that could help solve the case. Police have urged anyone who witnessed anything suspicious around Great Cheetham Street West on the night of October 13 or early October 14, 2023, or who has information about Julius' final hours, to come forward. Information can be provided to GMP on 0161 856 3635, quoting log 219 of 07/12/2023, or through the force's Major Incident Public Portal. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. The coroner's decision does not determine criminal liability. Any future prosecution would require investigators and prosecutors to establish sufficient evidence against an identified suspect. For Julius' family, however, the renewed review offers another opportunity to establish what happened during the final hours of a Zimbabwean man whose death has remained unresolved for almost three years. Julius Matera death

By Staff Reporter | Masvingo Great Zimbabwe University (GZU) emerged as one of the biggest winners as the 2026 Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe Tourism Expo closed in Masvingo, scooping the overall Top Rated Exhibition award and Best Training Institution Exhibition award. The four-day tourism showcase, held from September 9 to 12 at the Gymkhana Events and Conference Centre, attracted more than 400 exhibitors, including tourism operators, Government departments, financial institutions, airlines, educational institutions and international participants. Final figures reported from the expo put the number of exhibitors at 405, while 125 international buyers and 28 local buyers attended the event. The awards ceremony brought together tourism industry players and Government officials, with Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbra Rwodzi representing First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa. The First Lady's message, delivered by Rwodzi, emphasised the need for Zimbabwe's tourism industry to pursue sustainable and inclusive growth while ensuring that tourism delivers lasting benefits to communities. GZU's double victory was particularly significant for the host province, with the Masvingo-based university demonstrating the role education and skills development can play in the country's tourism industry. In the Best Training Institution category, Belvedere Teachers College was runner-up, while Manicaland State University came third. Manicaland State University also took the Best Rural Tourism Exhibition award, followed by the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe and Zibagwe Rural District Council. Investment interest for Masvingo The expo also generated significant interest in Masvingo as a tourism and investment destination. Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Permanent Secretary Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa said the event had exceeded expectations and created opportunities that could have a lasting impact on the provincial economy. He said investors had expressed serious interest in Tugwi-Mukosi Dam, Zimbabwe's largest inland water reservoir, as well as plans for a five-star hotel and conference centre in Masvingo. “The event was phenomenal and oversubscribed. It has boosted the Masvingo economy and the province will never be the same again,” Pazvakavambwa said. “We have investors who showed serious interest in constructing a five-star hotel and a conference centre. This shows the level of business the province is going to get.” Tugwi-Mukosi was among the attractions promoted during the expo as Masvingo sought to position itself beyond Great Zimbabwe and showcase its wider adventure, wildlife, heritage and investment opportunities. Masvingo City Town Clerk Engineer Mukaratirwa said the city had benefited from the business activity generated by the expo and expected some of the relationships created during the event to continue beyond the four-day showcase. “We want to thank all key stakeholders, especially the Office of the Minister of State. The tourism expo brought significant business opportunities to the city, and we expect the benefits generated during the event to continue beyond the expo,” he said. He said feedback from visitors had also been positive, with delegates commending the city's cleanliness and service delivery. Gweru beats host city Gweru City Council won the Best Local Authority Exhibition award, ahead of host Masvingo City Council, with Zibagwe Rural District Council taking third place. Harare Publicity Association won Best Publicity Association Exhibition, followed by Masvingo Publicity Association. The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) was named Best Public Institution Exhibition, with Airports Company of Zimbabwe and National Handling Services completing the top three. In financial services, CBZ took first place ahead of Old Mutual and Stanbic Bank. Rainbow Tourism Group (RTG) won Best Hotel Exhibition, followed by Urban Lifestyle and Great Zimbabwe Hotel. Cerutti Lodge was named Best Lodge Exhibition, while Manna Safari Resort won Best Safari Camp Exhibition ahead of Ngamo Dam Safaris and Gonarezhou Conservation Trust. NetOne was named Best Tourism Supplier Exhibition, followed by Liquid Intelligent Technologies and Econet Wireless. Easygo Driving School won the Best Car Hire Exhibition category, with Impala Car Rental and Murare Car Rental taking second and third positions respectively. In the international category, Zambia Tourism Agency was named the leading international exhibitor, ahead of Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency and Malawi. The expo's strong turnout represented a significant increase in participation from the previous edition. Before the event, organisers had reported 392 registered exhibitors against a target of 400, up 14.3 percent from 343 exhibitors in 2025. International buyers had also increased by 49.4 percent to 133 registered buyers before the expo. For Masvingo, the challenge now is to convert the exposure and investor interest generated by Sanganai/Hlanganani into actual tourism projects, new accommodation capacity, conference business and sustained visitor spending. With Great Zimbabwe, Tugwi-Mukosi, Gonarezhou and other attractions forming part of its tourism offering, the province is seeking to establish itself as more than a host for one major annual event. The 2026 expo has provided a significant platform for that ambition. Sanganai Hlanganani 2026

By Staff Reporter | Harare President Emmerson Mnangagwa has referred the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (Zimsec) Amendment Bill back to Parliament, asking legislators to reconsider provisions over which he has raised reservations. The development means the Bill will return to the National Assembly for further consideration before it can proceed to the next stage of the legislative process. Clerk of Parliament Kennedy Chokuda confirmed the referral, saying Parliament would have to sit and consider the issues raised by the President. The Bill is expected to be recommitted to the Committee of the Whole House, where legislators will consider the provisions identified by the President and determine whether amendments are required. The referral does not mean that the legislation has been rejected outright. Rather, it gives Parliament an opportunity to reconsider the disputed provisions and, where necessary, make changes before the Bill is returned to the President. The Zimsec Amendment Bill was introduced as part of the Government's efforts to strengthen the security and administration of public examinations amid persistent concerns over examination malpractice and the leakage of question papers. Parliament's bill-status records identify the legislation as H.B. 4A, 2025, under the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education. The Bill was gazetted in June 2025. Tougher penalties for exam malpractice The proposed amendments seek to expand the range of offences covered under the Zimsec Act and introduce tougher penalties for examination malpractice. The legislation also seeks to address forms of cheating associated with modern technology, including the use of electronic and smart devices during examinations. Other provisions deal with collusion and conduct that compromises the integrity of examinations. Parliament previously approved amendments that increased the maximum proposed penalty for examination malpractice from two years to five years. Legislators also introduced an appeal mechanism for candidates and examination centres affected by decisions taken by Zimsec in relation to examination malpractice. The Bill further seeks to strengthen Zimsec's regulatory powers over examination centres. Among its proposed changes is an express power for Zimsec to monitor examination centres and deregister centres that fail to comply with its standards, subject to the applicable regulations. The legislation also proposes changes to the composition and expertise of the Zimsec Board, including representation with skills in areas such as auditing, finance, information technology, human resources and risk management. Examination leaks remain a concern The reforms come against a background of repeated concerns over the security of public examinations in Zimbabwe. Zimsec is responsible for administering the country's public examinations and protecting their integrity. Examination paper leaks and other forms of malpractice have periodically raised questions about the security of the examination system. The proposed amendments are therefore intended to give the examinations body stronger legal and administrative tools to prevent, detect and punish malpractice. However, the Bill has also attracted scrutiny over some of its provisions, including questions around the exercise of Zimsec's proposed powers over examination centres. The President's decision to return the Bill means Parliament will now have to consider his reservations before the legislative process can proceed. The exact provisions identified by the President had not been publicly detailed in the information available at the time of publication. Once Parliament has considered the reservations and made any necessary amendments, the Bill can proceed through the remaining constitutional legislative procedures. The latest development therefore delays the Bill's enactment but keeps the proposed examination-security reforms alive. For schools, learners, teachers and examination centres, the outcome could have significant implications, particularly if the amended law introduces tougher consequences for examination malpractice and gives Zimsec stronger powers to police examination centres. The Bill's return to Parliament also provides legislators with an opportunity to address any constitutional, legal or practical concerns before the proposed amendments become law. The legislation will therefore remain before Parliament until the President's reservations have been considered and the House completes the required process. Zimsec Amendment Bill

By Valerie Mpundu When trust walks out the door, violence often walks in behind it. Many couples never learned how to talk about emotional hurt. So when betrayal happens, there is no constructive conversation only silence, growing suspicion, shouting, and ultimately, catastrophic violence. In Dzivarasekwa, Harare, the local community is still reeling from two recent cases. In one incident, a wife allegedly axed her husband to death following a domestic dispute. In another, a woman was accused of launching a severe physical attack targeting her husband's genitals. Similar brutal incidents have been reported in Victoria Falls and across other districts, highlighting a disturbing trend of escalating spousal assault. In many other areas, severe cases go unreported to law enforcement, but marriage counselors report hearing identical patterns behind closed doors. These are not isolated tragedies. They form a broader pattern now routinely appearing in police dockets and hospital casualty wards and the conflict usually traces back to extra-marital affairs. The Digital Catalyst and Economic Distance Modern technology has significantly accelerated these conflicts. Secret chat applications, deleted text logs, and "active now" status indicators at 2:00 AM have turned smartphones into sources of evidence, bait, and triggers for domestic disputes. A single screenshot is often enough to start a confrontation that ends in physical injury. Neighbors rarely hear the argument first anymore; they often see the outcome shared on social media platforms. Geographic separation and changing socio-economic dynamics are also compounding marital strain: Long-Distance Work: Cross-border traders, long-distance truck drivers, and artisanal miners spend weeks or months away from home. In that physical absence, suspicion thrives. Shifting Household Dynamics: As more women earn independent incomes through cross-border trade and informal business, traditional domestic roles are shifting. When both partners feel disrespected or financially pressured, conflict escalates quickly. Consequently, support centers are seeing a rising number of women named as perpetrators of severe physical violence a marked shift from previous years. The Cycle of Escalation Domestic violence rarely begins with a physical blow. It typically evolves through distinct stages: Initial Interrogation: Verbal confrontations centered on whereabouts and unaccounted time. Surveillance: Searching phone call logs, social media messages, and personal belongings. Withdrawal & Hostility: Cold wars, slammed doors, and emotional distance inside the home. Physical Violence: Escalation into severe physical assault when suspicion reaches a breaking point. Throughout this cycle, children exposed to chronic household tension and conflict suffer the longest-lasting psychological trauma. Prevention and Early Intervention Faith leaders, traditional authorities, and professional counselors emphasize that communities must address marital infidelity and conflict resolution proactively before issues escalate into physical harm. Several community churches and civil society organizations have begun implementing pre-marital workshops and dispute-resolution programs focusing on communication, financial management, and conflict handling. Ultimately, experts emphasize that when reconciliation or forgiveness is no longer viable, stepping away from a volatile household remains the safest path to preserving life. domestic violence infidelity Zimbabwe