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By Southerton Business Times | Harare The United Kingdom has appointed Gill Lever OBE as His Majesty's Ambassador to Zimbabwe, succeeding Peter Vowles, who is being transferred to another diplomatic posting. In a statement issued on Tuesday, 4 August 2026, the UK Government confirmed that Lever will take up her new role in September 2026, following the completion of the diplomatic appointment process. "Mrs Gill Lever OBE has been appointed His Majesty's Ambassador to the Republic of Zimbabwe in succession to Mr Peter Vowles, who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment. Mrs Lever will take up her appointment during September 2026," the statement said. The announcement indicates that the Government of Zimbabwe has already granted agrément the formal approval required under diplomatic protocol before a foreign government can appoint an ambassador. Gill Lever is a senior British diplomat with extensive experience in international relations and public diplomacy. Her appointment comes as the UK and Zimbabwe continue efforts to strengthen bilateral engagement in areas including trade, investment, climate action, education and development cooperation. She succeeds Peter Vowles, who has served as the UK's Ambassador to Zimbabwe since 2023 and will assume another diplomatic assignment. Although the appointment has been announced, Lever will only formally assume the role after completing the required diplomatic accreditation procedures in Zimbabwe. Upon arriving in Harare, she is expected to present copies of her credentials to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade before attending a formal accreditation ceremony at State House. During that ceremony, Lever will present her Letters of Credence to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, while Peter Vowles' Letters of Recall will also be submitted, officially marking the transfer of diplomatic responsibilities. Only after presenting her credentials to the Head of State can Lever formally exercise the full powers of ambassador, including representing the British Government in official engagements at the highest diplomatic level. The United Kingdom is represented in Zimbabwe by an Ambassador, rather than a High Commissioner, because Zimbabwe is currently outside the Commonwealth. Within the Commonwealth, member states exchange High Commissioners instead of ambassadors. Since Zimbabwe withdrew from the Commonwealth in 2003, the UK has accredited ambassadors to represent His Majesty's Government in Harare. The interval between announcing a diplomatic appointment and assuming office is standard practice, allowing the incoming ambassador to conclude previous assignments, receive country-specific briefings and complete relocation arrangements before taking up the new posting. Lever is expected to assume her duties in Harare during September 2026, becoming the United Kingdom's senior diplomatic representative in Zimbabwe. Gill Lever Ambassador to Zimbabwe

By Southerton Business Times | Harare A leading Zimbabwean medical practitioner has urged the public to remain vigilant and seek prompt medical attention if flu-like symptoms worsen, amid growing reports of a respiratory illness affecting many people across the country. Dr Johannes Marisa, president of the Medical and Dental Private Practitioners of Zimbabwe Association (MDPPAZ), said the illness could be caused by COVID-19, seasonal influenza or another respiratory virus, but stressed that there was no reason for public panic. Speaking to ZiFM Stereo News, Marisa said respiratory infections are common during this time of year and emphasised the importance of good hygiene and early treatment for people who develop severe symptoms. "What I want people to know is there's no need to panic because COVID-19 is now endemic. When we say endemic, we mean it is among us," Marisa said. "We are going to live with it, but people should not delay when they start to develop complications from this respiratory illness." Marisa said doctors had observed an increase in patients presenting with respiratory symptoms in recent weeks. "There's a bug that is causing havoc today. A lot of people are sick, and a lot of people are in trouble with respiratory illness or infection. We are very worried because this bug may be anything," he said. He noted that the illness could be linked to COVID-19 or seasonal influenza viruses, adding that laboratory testing is needed to determine the exact cause. "It may be COVID-19, it may not be COVID-19, it may be the seasonal flu caused by influenza type A, type B or type C. It is not surprising if it is COVID-19." Marisa encouraged Zimbabweans to continue practising the preventive measures that proved effective during the COVID-19 pandemic, including regular handwashing, using hand sanitiser, staying home when unwell and seeking medical care if symptoms become severe. He also acknowledged that access to diagnostic testing remains limited. "We are limited by testing at the moment," he said. Marisa said health authorities around the world continue to monitor new COVID-19 variants and urged Zimbabweans not to underestimate the continued circulation of respiratory viruses. He referred to reports of emerging COVID-19 variants in parts of Asia and elsewhere, noting that increased international travel means viruses can spread rapidly across borders. "With globalisation, you know what happens. A lot of people movement is involved, and COVID-19 can land anywhere in this world." He urged the public to maintain proper hygiene practices because respiratory viruses can spread quickly in communities. The World Health Organization (WHO) has consistently advised that people experiencing respiratory symptoms should practise good hygiene, cover coughs and sneezes, wash their hands regularly and seek medical attention if they develop difficulty breathing, persistent fever or other severe symptoms. Health experts also recommend that vulnerable groups including older adults, pregnant women, young children and people with underlying medical conditions take extra precautions during periods of increased respiratory illness. Authorities have not announced any outbreak of a new disease in Zimbabwe, and there has been no official confirmation that the current increase in flu-like illnesses is linked to COVID-19. Flu-like illness Zimbabwe

By Southerton Business Times | Harare Eight men have been arrested after police uncovered an alleged illegal underground mining operation in Marlborough, Harare, where suspects are accused of digging a 10-metre-deep shaft and carrying out blasting activities in the middle of a residential neighbourhood. The discovery has raised serious concerns over the safety of nearby homes, with authorities and residents fearing that years of underground excavations may have compromised the stability of the surrounding area. According to H-Metro, investigators believe the illegal operation had been running since 2022, with significant quantities of ore allegedly extracted before police moved in on Sunday. The reported mining activities are said to have taken place beneath or near residential properties, prompting fears that underground blasting and excavation could have weakened the ground and increased the risk of structural damage. The incident has reignited debate over the growing prevalence of illegal mining in Zimbabwe, particularly in areas not designated for mineral extraction. Authorities are expected to assess whether nearby homes and infrastructure have been affected by the underground workings. Speaking during the opening of the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development's 2026 Mid-Term Performance Review and Second Half Reset Workshop in Kadoma, Mines and Mining Development Minister Polite Kambamura said the Government does not authorise mining activities in urban residential areas. He said authorities had observed a worrying increase in clandestine mining operations being conducted from private homes, with some individuals allegedly drilling and using explosives in populated neighbourhoods. "We have noted cases where people are carrying out mining activities from residential properties, including drilling and blasting, causing environmental degradation and endangering communities," Kambamura said. The minister called for stronger collaboration between law enforcement agencies, local authorities and mining regulators to identify and shut down illegal mining operations before they pose greater risks to public safety. Kambamura said illegal mining continues to claim lives, damage the environment and destroy property, underscoring the need for tougher enforcement. He cited the recent Penhalonga mine shaft collapse in Manicaland, where eight illegal miners lost their lives after an underground tunnel caved in. Authorities said the miners had allegedly been accessing concealed tunnels through a makeshift tuckshop built to disguise the operation. The Government has in recent months intensified efforts to curb illegal mining, including banning mining and blasting activities at heritage sites and increasing inspections in high-risk areas. Despite the challenges posed by illegal mining, Zimbabwe's mining industry continues to be a major contributor to the national economy. Kambamura said the sector generated approximately US$5.73 billion in mineral export earnings during the first half of 2026. Of that amount, around US$2.532 billion was marketed through the Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe (MMCZ), while gold exports accounted for approximately US$3.2 billion. The minister said Government remains committed to promoting responsible and legally compliant mining practices while protecting communities and the environment from the dangers associated with illegal mining. Illegal mining in Marlborough Harare

By Southerton Business Times | Harare A routine attempt to cross the road turned tragic after a Toyota Aqua struck two pedestrians at a designated pedestrian crossing along Samora Machel Avenue in Harare, leaving one person dead and another seriously injured. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said the fatal road traffic accident occurred at around 1:50 pm on Sunday, 2 August 2026, at the Showgrounds pedestrian crossing, and has renewed calls for motorists to exercise greater caution at pedestrian crossings. According to police, the two pedestrians were crossing the road at the marked pedestrian crossing when they were hit by the vehicle. One of the victims, a 40-year-old pedestrian, succumbed to injuries after being admitted to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, while the second victim, aged 33, sustained injuries and remains hospitalised. In a statement, the ZRP confirmed the incident. "The ZRP confirms a fatal road traffic accident which occurred on 02/08/2026 at around 1350 hours along Samora Machel Avenue at the Showgrounds pedestrian crossing point in Harare. A Toyota Aqua struck two pedestrians who were crossing at the designated pedestrian crossing." Police have not yet released the identity of the deceased pending notification of the next of kin. Following the crash, the ZRP appealed to both motorists and pedestrians to remain vigilant and observe road safety rules to prevent similar tragedies. Police urged drivers to reduce speed when approaching pedestrian crossings, maintain a proper lookout and always yield to pedestrians using designated crossing points. "The ZRP urges motorists to exercise extreme caution, keep a proper lookout, reduce speed when approaching pedestrian crossings and always give way to pedestrians." The police also encouraged pedestrians to remain alert before crossing roads, even when using marked crossings. "Pedestrians are also encouraged to remain vigilant and ensure it is safe to cross roads, even when using designated crossing points." The circumstances surrounding the collision remain under investigation. Police said motorists who fail to comply with road traffic laws and endanger pedestrians will face legal consequences. "The ZRP will ensure the law takes its course on drivers who fail to observe and respect the tenets of road safety at designated pedestrian crossing points." Pedestrian fatalities continue to be a significant road safety challenge in Zimbabwe, particularly in urban centres where heavy traffic and speeding contribute to serious accidents. The Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ) has consistently urged motorists to respect speed limits, avoid distracted driving and give priority to pedestrians at marked crossings. The council also encourages pedestrians to remain vigilant, as defensive road use by all road users is critical to reducing accidents. Authorities have repeatedly called for stronger compliance with traffic regulations, public awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement to improve road safety across the country. SEO Pack SEO Title Pedestrian Killed, Another Injured in Toyota Aqua Crash at Harare Crossing Meta Description One pedestrian has died and another was injured after a Toyota Aqua struck two people at a designated pedestrian crossing along Samora Machel Avenue in Harare, police have confirmed. URL Slug toyota-aqua-hits-pedestrians-samora-machel-harare Focus Keyword Harare pedestrian crossing accident Long-tail Keywords Toyota Aqua pedestrian accident Harare Samora Machel Avenue accident Showgrounds pedestrian crossing crash ZRP road traffic accident Harare road accident today Pedestrian killed in Harare Zimbabwe road safety news Toyota Aqua crash Zimbabwe Excerpt A 40-year-old pedestrian has died and another person has been injured after a Toyota Aqua struck two people at the Showgrounds pedestrian crossing along Samora Machel Avenue in Harare. Suggested Image ALT Text Showgrounds pedestrian crossing along Samora Machel Avenue in Harare. Zimbabwe Republic Police traffic officers at an accident scene. Pedestrian crossing signage on a busy Harare road. Traffic on Samora Machel Avenue in Harare. Suggested Tags Zimbabwe Republic Police, Harare accident, Samora Machel Avenue, Toyota Aqua, Road traffic accident, Pedestrian safety, Road safety, Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe, Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, Zimbabwe news, Southerton Business Times

By Southerton Business Times | Mashonaland Central Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe has warned that the Government will take firm action against individuals operating unlicensed drug rehabilitation centres, saying vulnerable families and people recovering from substance abuse must be protected from exploitation and abuse. Speaking at the Mashonaland Central Provincial Drug and Substance Abuse Interface Meeting, Kazembe said private individuals and organisations are free to establish rehabilitation facilities, provided they comply with Zimbabwe's legal and regulatory requirements. "People are free to establish rehabilitation centres, but they must follow the procedures," Kazembe said. "They have to apply for registration. The Ministry of Health is responsible for inspecting the premises and licensing those who meet the required standards." He said authorities would not tolerate operators who exploit vulnerable people by charging excessive fees while running facilities that fail to meet basic health, safety and human rights standards. "Those taking advantage of vulnerable people, charging huge amounts of money and even abusing patients, like what we witnessed in Shamva, will not be tolerated. The law will take its course and those responsible will be held accountable." The minister's remarks follow the closure of the Lancos Rehabilitation Centre in Shamva, which authorities shut down on 21 July 2026 after inspections reportedly uncovered serious breaches of health and patient welfare standards. The facility's owner, Lancos Kuuyangepi (30), was subsequently convicted of illegally operating the rehabilitation centre and sentenced to two years' imprisonment. According to authorities, inspectors found the facility was operating without the required licence and identified overcrowding, poor sanitation, inadequate nutrition, untreated injuries among patients and unsafe detoxification practices. Authorities also alleged that some patients had been subjected to abuse and forced labour. Kazembe said the Government intends to strengthen Zimbabwe's response to drug and substance abuse through the establishment of a Drug and Substance Abuse Control Agency under the Drug and Substance Abuse Bill, which is currently before Parliament. The proposed agency would serve as the country's specialised institution responsible for coordinating efforts to combat drug trafficking, prevent substance abuse and improve access to treatment and rehabilitation services. According to the minister, the agency will be headed by a Director General supported by two deputy directors. One division will oversee law enforcement, including intelligence gathering, disrupting drug trafficking syndicates, supporting investigations and strengthening anti-drug operations. The second division will focus on social services, including prevention programmes, treatment, rehabilitation, demand reduction initiatives and the reintegration of recovering substance users into their communities. The Government has identified drug and substance abuse as one of Zimbabwe's most pressing social challenges, particularly among young people. In recent years, authorities have intensified nationwide awareness campaigns, law enforcement operations and rehabilitation initiatives as part of a broader strategy to curb the growing prevalence of illicit drug use. Public health experts have consistently argued that an effective national response requires a balance between law enforcement and accessible, evidence-based treatment services that protect the rights and dignity of people seeking recovery. The proposed Drug and Substance Abuse Control Agency is expected to play a central role in coordinating these efforts should the legislation be approved by Parliament. Illegal drug rehabilitation centres Zimbabwe

By Southerton Business Times | Harare The Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) has officially released the June 2026 Ordinary Level and Advanced Level examination results, with candidates able to access their results online from 6:00 pm on Monday, 3 August. Speaking at a media briefing in Harare, ZIMSEC Board Chairperson Professor Paul Mapfumo announced that the results would be available through the council's online results portal for five days. "The Zimbabwe School Examinations Council board and management would like to advise the nation of the release of the 2026 June Ordinary and Advanced Level examination results," Prof Mapfumo said. "With effect from today, 3 August 2026 at 6 pm, Ordinary and Advanced Level examination results will be accessible to all candidates and authorised personnel online through the ZIMSEC portal." He urged candidates and schools to note that the online portal will remain open for five days only. Heads of examination centres will be able to collect official results for their respective schools from ZIMSEC regional offices on Tuesday, 4 August 2026. ZIMSEC reported a decline in the June 2026 Ordinary Level pass rate among candidates who sat for five or more subjects. The pass rate fell to 3.00%, compared with 5.87% recorded during the June 2025 examination session, representing a decline of 2.87 percentage points. The June examination session is primarily intended for candidates who are rewriting subjects to improve previous results, making direct comparisons with the main November examination session inappropriate because of differences in candidate profiles and enrolment patterns. In contrast, the Advanced Level examination recorded an improvement in performance. According to ZIMSEC, the pass rate for candidates who obtained at least two subjects at Grade E or better increased by 11.88 percentage points, reaching 67.74% in 2026. The improvement suggests stronger performance among candidates who sat the June Advanced Level examinations compared with the same examination session last year. Candidates can access their results by logging into the ZIMSEC online candidate portal using their examination details. The council advised candidates to check their results before the portal closes after five days. School heads and examination centre administrators will collect official result slips from ZIMSEC regional offices beginning Tuesday. The release of the June examination results provides an opportunity for candidates seeking to improve their grades ahead of further studies, university admissions and employment opportunities. ZIMSEC June 2026 results

By Southerton Business Times | Mutare Residents of Toronto suburb in Mutare have accused a mining company of continuing operations in the Christmas Pass mountains despite an alleged directive from the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) ordering it to halt mining activities and rehabilitate the site. In a joint statement issued on Monday, a coalition of 10 civic and environmental organisations alleged that Culverhouse Investments (Pvt) Ltd had ignored an EMA compliance order and recently brought heavier machinery to expand excavation work above the residential suburb. The organisations warned that continued mining on the mountains overlooking Toronto suburb and the Hillcrest Group of Schools could increase the risk of soil erosion, rockfalls and mudslides, particularly during the rainy season. According to the joint statement, EMA issued a letter dated 30 March 2026 directing the company to cease new excavations and rehabilitate the affected area by 30 April 2026. The organisations claim mining activities have nevertheless continued, raising concerns about public safety and environmental degradation. They further argued that the operations contravene Section 31C of Zimbabwe's Mines and Minerals Act, which they say restricts mining activities within urban areas and in close proximity to residential communities. The civic groups also accused EMA of failing to adequately enforce environmental regulations. Southerton Business Times has not independently verified the allegations contained in the statement. Responding to questions from Chipinge Times, EMA Manicaland Provincial Manager Rambwayi Apako said Culverhouse Investments had been granted a permit by the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development to conduct underground mining. Apako said he was not aware of any surface mining taking place at the site. Manicaland Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Misheck Mugadza, who is also the Member of Parliament for the area, told the publication he was unable to comment at the time because he was attending engagements in Harare. The organisations are calling for: An immediate suspension of all mining activities at Christmas Pass. An independent geotechnical and environmental safety assessment. An investigation into EMA's handling of the matter. Legal action against any individuals or entities found to have violated environmental or mining laws. The statement was jointly issued by the Greater Toronto Residents Trust, Centre for Natural Resource Governance, Mutare River Rehabilitation Initiative, Manica Youth Assembly, Buhera Residents Network Trust, Centre for Research and Policy Development in Africa, and other community organisations. Environmental experts have previously warned that mining activities on steep slopes can increase the risk of land degradation, erosion and slope instability if not properly managed. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), responsible mining practices require comprehensive environmental impact assessments, effective rehabilitation plans and ongoing monitoring to minimise impacts on surrounding communities and ecosystems. The dispute highlights the growing tension between mineral exploitation and environmental protection in Zimbabwe, where communities have increasingly raised concerns about mining operations located near residential areas, schools and ecologically sensitive sites. It remains unclear whether EMA will undertake further inspections or enforcement action following the latest allegations. Christmas Pass mining

By Southerton Business Times | Harare NetOne Group Chief Executive Officer Raphael Mushanawani will leave Zimbabwe's second-largest mobile network operator after the board resolved not to renew his contract when it expires in September 2026, bringing an end to a four-year tenure marked by legal battles, governance disputes and financial challenges. Multiple media reports indicate that Mushanawani, who has been on annual leave since 13 July, was informed that his contract would not be renewed following a board resolution reached last week. If confirmed by NetOne, his departure would make him the latest chief executive to exit the state-owned telecommunications company amid governance controversies. Over the past decade, former CEOs Reward Kangai and Lazarus Muchenje also left the organisation under difficult circumstances. At the time of publication, NetOne had not issued an official public statement announcing the board's decision. Reports indicate that Chief Technical Officer Christopher Muchechemera has assumed the role of acting chief executive pending the appointment of a substantive CEO. The reported leadership change comes as NetOne continues to navigate significant financial and operational challenges in Zimbabwe's highly competitive telecommunications market. Mushanawani's reported exit follows months of scrutiny over the company's governance, procurement processes and financial management. According to reports, one of the issues considered by the board was a substantial tax assessment issued by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA). Media reports have alleged that disagreements emerged over how the tax matter should be handled, with claims that management pursued legal remedies instead of implementing a board-approved payment arrangement. Southerton Business Times has not independently verified these claims, and neither NetOne nor ZIMRA has publicly commented on the reported dispute. NetOne has also been reported to be carrying significant debt obligations, placing additional pressure on the state-owned mobile operator as it competes with private sector rivals. In late 2025, Mushanawani was arrested by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) in connection with allegations involving a US$1.2 million enterprise software upgrade. The allegations centred on claims that the software upgrade had been implemented without the required approvals. Mushanawani denied wrongdoing and was subsequently cleared by the courts, allowing him to remain in office. NetOne has experienced frequent changes in executive leadership over the past decade, with several chief executives leaving the organisation before completing long-term tenures. Corporate governance experts have previously argued that frequent leadership turnover at state-owned enterprises can disrupt strategic planning, delay investment decisions and affect organisational performance. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has noted that strong governance frameworks, transparent procurement systems and clear separation between boards and executive management are critical to the effective operation of state-owned enterprises. As one of Zimbabwe's largest telecommunications companies, NetOne plays a strategic role in expanding digital connectivity, mobile financial services and broadband access across the country. Attention will now turn to whether the board confirms Mushanawani's departure officially and outlines its plans for appointing a substantive chief executive to steer the company through its next phase. Raphael Mushanawani NetOne

By Southerton Business Times | Harare Air Zimbabwe has explained why its recently relaunched Harare–London Gatwick service suffered its first cancellation, just days after returning to the skies following a 14-year hiatus. The national airline said the Friday, 1 August 2026 flight was postponed due to operational reasons, before announcing a revised schedule for passengers affected by the disruption. The cancellation marks the first interruption since Air Zimbabwe resumed direct flights to the United Kingdom in July, restoring a route that had been suspended since 2012. Air Zimbabwe Announces Revised Flight Schedule In a statement issued on Saturday, 2 August, Air Zimbabwe apologised for the inconvenience and confirmed that the delayed service had been rescheduled. "Air Zimbabwe wishes to advise its valued customers that the Harare-London flight scheduled for Friday, 1 August 2026 has been postponed due to operational reasons," the airline said. The rescheduled flight was set to depart Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare at 9:00 pm on Saturday, arriving at London Gatwick Airport at 6:00 am on Sunday (local time). The return flight was also adjusted. "The London-Harare flight, originally scheduled for Saturday, will now depart London Gatwick at 8:00 am on Sunday and is expected to arrive in Harare at 7:00 pm the same day," Air Zimbabwe said. The airline thanked passengers for their patience and said it was working to minimise disruptions. Reports Link Disruption to Crew Shortage Some media reports have suggested the disruption may have been caused by a crew-related issue involving the aircraft operating the route. However, Air Zimbabwe has not confirmed the specific operational reason behind the postponement, and the airline's official statement did not provide further details. Southerton Business Times has not independently verified reports circulating on social media and other news platforms regarding the cause of the disruption. Three Weekly Flights Continue Air Zimbabwe said it expects normal flight operations to resume following the rescheduled service. The airline currently operates three weekly direct flights between Harare and London using an Airbus A330-300 under a wet-lease arrangement. Flights depart Harare every Sunday, Wednesday and Friday, with return services leaving London Gatwick on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The relaunch of the Harare-London route in July 2026 marked Air Zimbabwe's return to the UK market after a 14-year absence and has been widely viewed as a significant milestone for the national carrier. The restored route is expected to improve travel options for business travellers, tourists and Zimbabweans living in the United Kingdom while strengthening trade and tourism links between the two countries. Despite the latest disruption, Air Zimbabwe has indicated that the next scheduled Sunday departure is expected to operate normally. Air Zimbabwe Harare London flight

By Southerton Business Times | Harare The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has arrested a Harare man accused of defrauding prospective homebuyers of US$4,580 through an alleged scheme involving fake City of Harare residential stands and forged council documents. In a statement issued on Monday, 3 August 2026, ZACC said Gerald Mangwiro is facing three counts of fraud and two counts of forgery after allegedly posing as an agent of the City of Harare and using counterfeit council documents to deceive home seekers. The anti-graft body said the alleged offences occurred between August 2023 and July 2026. According to ZACC, Mangwiro allegedly approached complainant Rongedzai Kutsapede, falsely claiming he could facilitate the purchase of a residential stand from the City of Harare. Investigators allege he produced fake subdivision layout plans and fraudulent offer letters before directing the complainant to deposit US$2,370 into a personal bank account, which he allegedly misrepresented as belonging to the local authority. ZACC further alleges that between May and July 2026, Mangwiro targeted the same complainant again, convincing him to pay an additional US$1,130 for another residential stand despite allegedly having no authority to allocate municipal land. The commission said the accused claimed the payments were required for group contributions, City of Harare waiting list fees, and interview fees. On the third fraud count, Mangwiro is accused of deceiving another prospective homeowner, Kingstone Reza, into paying US$1,080 after allegedly promising to facilitate the allocation of a genuine council residential stand. According to ZACC, the money was demanded as payment for the stand allocation process and related interview fees. To make the transactions appear legitimate, investigators allege Mangwiro forged two City of Harare offer letters issued to Kutsapede and Reza. The letters were allegedly printed on official City of Harare letterheads, signed using the name of the Director of Housing and Community Services, and stamped with counterfeit municipal date stamps to create the impression that they were authentic council documents. ZACC said the alleged fraud resulted in a combined prejudice of US$4,580, all of which remains unrecovered. Mangwiro has since appeared before the Harare Magistrates' Court, where he was granted US$200 bail and remanded to 28 August 2026 for routine remand proceedings. The matter is still before the courts, and Mangwiro is presumed innocent unless proven guilty. The latest arrest comes amid recurring reports of fraudulent land allocation schemes targeting home seekers in Harare, where high demand for residential stands has created opportunities for land scammers. ZACC has repeatedly urged members of the public to verify land offers directly with local authorities before making any payments and to avoid depositing money into personal bank accounts for council-related transactions. The City of Harare has also consistently advised prospective buyers to conduct due diligence by confirming the authenticity of offer letters and stand allocations through its Housing and Community Services Department to avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes. Fake City of Harare stands scam

By Dr. Precious Sibiya Monday, August 3, 2026 In our African culture, mental illness has often been viewed as a bad spiritual consequence. Some months ago, I talked about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This week we unpack mental health in relation to mental illness. De-Stigmatizing Psychosocial Disabilities in African Culture Our organization, National Association for Persons with Psychosocial Disabilities (NAPPD), was on the radio last week raising awareness on psychosocial conditions and our mental health. One listener responded to say, ‘Ndine hama yangu inopenga……’. That careless statement pierced my heart, but again I could not blame her for the selection of words. We were never taught anything about Disability in school, though we had persons with disabilities across the divide. We probably added insult to injury by the names we called them or how we made them feel. It’s always important to know that disability is not a choice and it can happen to anyone. There are different types of disabilities, and it’s always important to have some basic knowledge of this. Disabilities are grouped into major categories like physical, sensory, and cognitive impairments. Common types include physical and mobility conditions, mental health and neurological conditions, sensory losses like vision or hearing impairment, and intellectual or developmental differences. Today I'm going to share insights about mental health versus mental illness, which is under the category Mental Health and Neurological. Mental Health vs. Mental Illness: Defining the Spectrum Mental health is your overall emotional and social well-being; mental illness is a diagnosable medical condition, and everyone has the former while only some experience the latter. So Mental Health is the continuous state of your emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It changes constantly, going up and down depending on your stress levels, sleep, life events, and daily challenges. It affects how you think, feel, act, and handle normal life problems. On the other hand, Mental Illness refers to specific, diagnosable disorders that disrupt thinking, mood, or behavior. It interferes with life by causing continuous distress, making it difficult for one to engage in regular daily activities. Common examples of mental illness include depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. According to My Mind & Me, individuals with a mental illness “engaged in recovery and treatment can still be mentally healthy.” Daily Habits for Maintaining Good Mental Health and Managing Stress Some of you must be thinking, is it possible to maintain good mental health? Absolutely! Years ago, I used to think it was impossible until I mastered the art of controlling my own emotions. Some situations in life would make me so angry that I would feel the anger oozing in my head, triggering a headache and high blood pressure. It was then that I realized that managing our emotions matters more than reacting as expected to any situation. Someone can deliberately cause you to be angry, but you can deliberately ignore the intention to protect your mental health. Adopt the art of managing your emotions as a first step towards good mental health. Similarly, when you are overjoyed, do that in moderation to avoid shock. We have heard many incidents where people died because of happiness-induced shock! Maintaining good mental health requires daily habits like exercising your body, getting enough sleep, and staying connected with people. Those seemingly small, steady steps each day can help you feel calm and strong. Engage in any uplifting physical activity for 30 minutes a day, like walking or dancing, to boost your mood. Did you know that just 30 minutes of walking every day can boost your mood and improve your health? Another difficult challenge to good mental health is lack of adequate sleep. Unless you are enrolled in military training, try to get 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night. Though it’s encouraged to go to bed at the same time, our demanding lifestyles may not allow it. Just make sure your body and mind rest when it’s required. A good diet is also critical for your mental health. Eat healthy meals and drink plenty of water to give your brain energy. Avoid too much sugar it’s poison already. As I indicated above, managing stress and emotions is very critical. Always make sure you stay connected. Chat and spend time with friends or family instead of only using screens. Most of us need repentance on the use of screens. We can do this! May God help us. Learn to practice mindfulness by taking slow, deep breaths and focusing on the present moment when you feel worried. Life will always be in constant flux with or without you, so practice the skill of taking a break. Rest during the day and step away from the news or social media when it feels too disruptive! Life will sometimes test you and make you feel alone and lonely. Learn to seek help. Reach out to your confidante, a doctor, counselor, or local support line. Sharing your story can save you and others. Don’t wait until you break down to get help. Disclaimer This content is for informational purposes only. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here. Dr. Precious Sibiya, a mother, sister, daughter, and friend, is a certified Wellness Practitioner, stroke survivor, and advocate for natural healing and lifestyle. Contact her for more Wellness insights on: Email: precioussibiya2014@gmail.com Phone: +263775369467 Mental health vs mental illness African perspective

By Southerton Business Times | Masvingo For nearly five months, hundreds of patients at Ngomahuru Psychiatric Hospital in Masvingo have lived without electricity after lightning destroyed the institution's transformer a crisis that health advocates say highlights the fragile state of Zimbabwe's public healthcare system. Despite the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) installing a replacement transformer, power has still not been restored because a cable worth about US$10,000 has yet to be purchased, leaving one of Zimbabwe's largest specialist mental health institutions operating in darkness since 7 April 2026. The prolonged outage has raised fears over patient welfare, staff safety and the quality of mental healthcare, with campaigners warning that unreliable electricity in hospitals threatens lives and undermines access to essential medical services. The Community Working Group on Health (CWGH) says the situation at Ngomahuru Psychiatric Hospital reflects a broader crisis affecting Zimbabwe's public hospitals, where ageing infrastructure, inadequate funding and unreliable utilities continue to disrupt healthcare delivery. Speaking to The Midweek Watch, CWGH Executive Director Itai Rusike said prolonged electricity outages severely compromise the ability of health workers to provide quality care. "The prolonged power cuts at health facilities affect the ability of health workers to diagnose, treat and manage conditions effectively," Rusike said. He urged the Government to classify hospitals as critical infrastructure by connecting them to dedicated electricity lines that are protected from prolonged outages. "Health facilities should be allocated dedicated electricity lines that are exempted from power cuts and disruptions. Theatres and laboratories need electricity to function properly and for staff to conduct tests." Rusike warned that when public hospitals cannot provide essential services, many patients are forced to seek treatment from private healthcare providers, placing care beyond the reach of thousands of Zimbabweans. "Patients may be forced to seek healthcare from the private sector, which may be too expensive for the majority of poor people who do not have private medical aid insurance cover," he added. Reliable electricity is particularly critical in specialist psychiatric institutions, where patients often require continuous supervision, secure facilities and uninterrupted clinical services. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), dependable electricity is essential for operating diagnostic equipment, laboratories, refrigeration of medicines, emergency response systems and maintaining safe healthcare environments. Without reliable power, hospitals face increased risks of delayed treatment, equipment failure and poorer patient outcomes. Health experts say the Ngomahuru crisis underscores the urgent need to strengthen Zimbabwe's health infrastructure as demand for mental health services continues to grow. Rusike called on authorities to accelerate investment in solar power systems and other renewable energy solutions for public hospitals to reduce dependence on the national grid. He said renewable energy would provide a more resilient power supply, helping ensure uninterrupted healthcare services even during electricity disruptions. The outage at Ngomahuru comes as Zimbabwe's public health sector continues to face shortages of medicines, ageing infrastructure and constrained budgets, with health advocates warning that reliable electricity should be treated as a basic requirement rather than a luxury. With a replacement transformer already in place, attention has now turned to sourcing the outstanding cable needed to reconnect the hospital to the electricity grid and restore full operations. For patients, caregivers and healthcare workers, every additional day without power prolongs uncertainty and highlights the challenges confronting Zimbabwe's mental health system. Ngomahuru Psychiatric Hospital power outage