A major security crackdown along the Mutare River has forced illegal miners, including suspected foreign nationals, to flee into nearby mountainous areas, as authorities intensified efforts to curb environmental damage and unlawful gold extraction. The operation, led by the Provincial Joint Operations Command, brought together the Zimbabwe National Army, Zimbabwe Republic Police, and State Security agents. The coordinated raid targeted illegal alluvial gold mining sites blamed for widespread river degradation and water pollution in Manicaland Province. Authorities confirmed the recovery of 12 excavators believed to have been used by foreign nationals in illegal gold mining operations. The machinery was discovered hidden in dense bush near the Beaulie area, suggesting attempts to evade detection. At Champion Mine, security teams seized critical mining infrastructure, including a wash plant, generator, and submersible pump. Three suspects, among them two private security guards, were arrested and are currently in police custody, facing charges linked to illegal mining activities. Meanwhile, eight individuals were apprehended for criminal trespass at Chikanga Farm, highlighting the extent of encroachment onto private and protected land by illegal miners. Additional equipment confiscated during the operation included gas blowers, generators, submersible pumps, shovels, and heavy-duty hammers, all commonly used in informal gold extraction. Security teams also shut down an unregistered liquor outlet discovered within the mining zone, believed to have been servicing illegal miners operating in the area. Acting Manicaland provincial police spokesperson, Wiseman Chinyoka, confirmed that all recovered excavators remain under armed police guard at the sites as investigations continue. The crackdown comes amid growing concern over the environmental impact of illegal alluvial mining along the Mutare River. According to the District Water and Sanitation Subcommittee, the use of toxic chemicals such as cyanide in gold processing has severely polluted river systems. “Cyanide contamination poses a serious threat to both human and animal life. We have recorded cases of livestock deaths linked to polluted water sources,” a local environmental officer said. Communities downstream rely heavily on the Mutare River for drinking water, irrigation, and livestock, making the pollution crisis a major public health and economic concern. Environmental experts warn that continued illegal mining could lead to long-term ecosystem damage, affecting biodiversity and water quality in the region. Similar concerns have been raised by conservation bodies such as the Environmental Management Agency, which has repeatedly called for stricter enforcement against illegal mining activities. Authorities say the latest operation signals a renewed commitment by the government to clamp down on illegal mining syndicates, including those involving foreign nationals. “This operation is not just about law enforcement, it is about protecting critical water resources and safeguarding livelihoods,” said a security official involved in the operation. The crackdown is being widely viewed as a necessary intervention to restore environmental integrity along the Mutare River and hold offenders accountable. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities expecting more arrests as they dismantle networks behind illegal gold mining in Zimbabwe. illegal mining Mutare River

JOHANNESBURG — South African prosecutors are requesting significant prison sentences for Chautunga Mugabe and Tobias Matonhodze in a high-profile criminal case involving serious firearms and violent conduct charges. The State’s recommended sentencing reflects a broader judicial effort to send a strong deterrent message against violent crime and the illegal misuse of firearms within the country. The prosecution has outlined distinct sentencing requirements for both accused individuals based on the severity of their respective charges: Chautunga Mugabe: The State has requested 12 months of direct imprisonment for pointing a firearm, and an additional 12 months of direct imprisonment for contravening national laws. Tobias Matonhodze: Facing more severe allegations, Matonhodze is looking at substantial jail time. Prosecutors have pushed for five years of direct imprisonment for attempted murder, 12 years for a firearm-related offence, and a further 12 years for defeating the ends of justice. Additionally, the State has requested 12 months for contravening national laws, while suggesting a fine in lieu of imprisonment for an ammunition-related offence. A significant factor in the current proceedings is the status of victim compensation. To date, the victim has received partial compensation totaling R250,000; however, an outstanding balance of R150,000 remains to be settled. As a result of these ongoing financial and legal considerations, the court has postponed the matter until 29 April. This extension provides the necessary time for the remaining compensation to be finalized, after which the court is expected to deliver the final sentencing for both individuals. The case continues to draw significant public attention due to the gravity of the charges and the implications for South Africa’s approach to curbing violent crime. Chautunga Mugabe Tobias Matonhodze sentencing

An undercover investigation by BBC News has uncovered a sophisticated shadow industry in the United Kingdom, where rogue immigration advisers and legal figures are allegedly charging thousands of pounds to help migrants fabricate asylum claims by posing as gay. The investigation reveals how individuals whose visas are about to expire, particularly from Pakistan and Bangladesh, are coached to construct false narratives of persecution based on sexual orientation, exploiting protections within the UK asylum system. Under UK law, individuals can seek asylum if they face persecution in their home countries, including discrimination or violence due to their sexuality. In countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh, same-sex relationships are criminalised, making such claims legitimate in many cases. However, the BBC investigation found that this legal protection is being systematically abused. Undercover reporters posing as international students discovered that some advisers offer “complete packages” for fake claims ranging from fabricated personal stories to staged photographic evidence and medical reports. One adviser, identified as Tanisa Khan, allegedly told a reporter: “There is nobody who is real… this is the only way to stay here.” She reportedly offered to prepare false documentation, including photos at LGBT events and letters claiming sexual relationships, for a fee of £2,500. In another instance, a senior adviser at Connaught Law allegedly quoted up to £7,000 to handle a fabricated asylum case, promising a “very low” chance of rejection. The investigation also exposed how community groups are being misused to support fraudulent claims. At an event hosted by Worcester LGBT in East London, attended by more than 175 people, several individuals admitted they were not gay. “Most of the people here are not gays,” one attendee told undercover reporters. Another added bluntly: “Nobody is gay here. Not even 1%.” Such gatherings are allegedly used to generate “evidence” of participation in LGBT communities, which can strengthen asylum claims submitted to the UK Home Office. Immigration experts have condemned the practice. Veteran lawyer Ana Gonzalez described the activities as outright fraud. “This is clearly manufacturing a claim,” she said. “It undermines genuine asylum seekers, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community who already face challenges proving their cases.” She noted that, unlike physical torture, sexual orientation claims often rely on personal testimony, making them harder to verify and easier to exploit. Official data shows a sharp rise in asylum applications. In 2025, claims exceeded 100,000, with approximately 35% coming from individuals who had entered the UK legally on study or work visas. Statistics also indicate that Pakistani nationals account for a disproportionate number of sexuality-based claims, around 42% in 2023, despite representing only a small share of total asylum applications. The UK Home Office responded strongly, warning that abuse of the system is a criminal offence. “Anyone found trying to exploit the system will face the full force of the law,” a spokesperson said, adding that offenders could face imprisonment and deportation. Politicians across the spectrum have called for tougher enforcement. Jo White urged authorities to crack down on corrupt advisers, while Chris Philp said the investigation exposes “serious flaws” in the asylum system. Meanwhile, refugee advocates caution against broad generalisations. Imran Hussain warned that such abuses risk undermining trust in legitimate cases. “Many LGBTQ+ refugees face real persecution and come to the UK seeking safety,” he said. “These scams must not discredit their experiences.” The investigation highlights the growing complexity of immigration enforcement in the UK, as authorities balance compassion for genuine asylum seekers with the need to prevent fraud. With new immigration rules under review and increased scrutiny on asylum claims, experts say dismantling these networks will be critical to restoring integrity in the system. fake asylum claims UK

A South African man has been arrested after allegedly orchestrating an unusual but elaborate fraud scheme in which he sold ordinary gravel as “authentic moon rocks,” claiming they were sourced from a secret private lunar mission. According to police reports, the suspect presented himself as an astronaut affiliated with an undisclosed independent space programme. Investigators say he used this fabricated identity to convince buyers that he had access to rare extraterrestrial materials collected from the moon and even Mars. The suspect reportedly marketed the stones via a WhatsApp group, targeting individuals interested in space exploration, rare collectibles, and investment opportunities. Authorities revealed that the suspect offered various themed packages, including a so-called “Mars combo,” which he claimed contained a mix of lunar and Martian samples. Victims were persuaded to pay significant sums, believing they were purchasing scientifically valuable or historically significant space artefacts. The scheme began to unravel when a university geology student examined one of the samples and identified it as a common terrestrial rock. “There was nothing unusual about the composition it was consistent with naturally occurring stones found on Earth,” the student reportedly told local media. This discovery prompted victims to alert authorities, leading to a sting operation. Police confirmed the suspect was arrested while allegedly attempting to complete another sale. “Preliminary investigations indicate that the individual has no affiliation with any recognised space agency, including NASA or any private aerospace institution,” a police spokesperson said. “This appears to be a deliberate attempt to defraud members of the public using fabricated claims.” Despite his arrest, reports indicate that the suspect continued to insist the rocks were genuine extraterrestrial samples. He is expected to appear in court soon, facing fraud-related charges. Several victims have since come forward seeking refunds and possible legal recourse. Experts say the case highlights the growing trend of niche scams targeting enthusiasts in specialised fields. According to analysts in fraud prevention, scammers increasingly exploit public fascination with space exploration, especially as private space ventures gain prominence globally. A Johannesburg-based fraud expert noted, “With the rise of commercial space travel and increased media coverage of missions, people are more inclined to believe in unconventional opportunities. Scammers take advantage of that curiosity and trust.” While the case has drawn widespread attention online due to its bizarre nature, some buyers reportedly admitted they were initially drawn to the aesthetic appeal of the stones, regardless of their origin. Authorities have urged the public to verify claims involving rare or scientific items, particularly those sold through informal channels such as social media and messaging platforms. They also encourage consumers to consult credible institutions or experts before making high-value purchases. The investigation is ongoing, and police say more victims may still come forward. fake moon rocks scam

BULAWAYO — Mines and Mining Development Minister Dr. Polite Kambamura has issued a stern warning to individuals facilitating "proxy mining" arrangements, signaling that the government is preparing strict measures to dismantle illegal sales of mining claims. Addressing delegates at the International Business Conference held during the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), Dr. Kambamura expressed deep concern over a rising trend where local individuals act as fronts for external investors in questionable, non-procedural deals. The Minister highlighted that the government has observed a growing number of instances where mining rights are traded under the guise of facilitating investment, bypassing established legal frameworks. "Those engaging in such activities should brace for a policy shift aimed at restoring order in the sector," Dr. Kambamura stated, emphasizing that mineral resources are finite and must be managed responsibly to secure long-term national gains. In response to speculative behavior, the government is finalizing a comprehensive policy framework for the small-scale mining sector. Under the proposed reforms, the investment landscape will undergo significant changes, including: Minimum Capital Requirements: Investors will be required to meet set capital thresholds to qualify for mining rights. Rigorous Verification: Prospective investors must undergo thorough verification processes through the Ministry of Finance. Financial Proof: Proof of funds must be deposited with the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) before any mining rights can be acquired. These measures are specifically designed to eliminate speculative deals and prevent unregulated partnerships between locals and foreign investors. Beyond regulatory enforcement, the government is introducing a new classification system for minerals, categorizing them into strategic and critical groups. Metallurgical coal has already been identified as the first "special critical mineral," a designation intended to unlock immediate investment within the coal sector. Dr. Kambamura also outlined plans to leverage Zimbabwe's coal reserves to address the nation’s energy deficit. The government intends to promote investment in thermal power generation utilizing cleaner coal technologies, a move seen as vital for industrialization and addressing electricity shortages. "The forthcoming policy measures are aimed at bringing discipline to the mining sector, curbing disorderly practices, and ensuring sustainable exploitation of resources," the Minister concluded. Zimbabwe mining proxy arrangements crackdown

A traditional court in Manicaland has ordered a Mozambican healer to reverse an alleged curse placed on a young man, after a woman admitted she may have targeted the wrong person over a missing gold mill. The ruling was issued by Chief Mutasa following a dramatic confession by Stella Mwakasikeni, who told the court she had sought spiritual intervention after her mining equipment was stolen, only to later doubt the identity of the alleged culprit. The case centres on Blessing Kembo, whose mother, Barbra Kembo, accused Mwakasikeni of causing her son’s prolonged illness through traditional means. Appearing before the chief’s court, Mwakasikeni said she travelled to Mozambique, where a traditional healer claimed to identify the thief using spiritual methods involving a mirror. “I saw a silhouette that resembled Blessing, though I did not see his face. The healer mentioned his name, and that is when I believed he was responsible,” she told the court. Acting on that belief, she allowed the healer to carry out what she described as a “revenge plan,” later acknowledging that harm may have been inflicted on the wrong person. “The healer is now in Dangamvura and is the only one who can reverse what was done,” she added. The admission angered Blessing’s family, who said the young man had endured months of unexplained illness following the alleged incident. Barbra Kembo told the court her son initially suffered severe abdominal pain and was diagnosed with complications requiring surgery. He was treated at Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital, where he underwent an operation and briefly recovered before developing further health complications. Despite medical intervention, the family said they struggled to find a clear explanation for his deteriorating condition. Blessing has consistently denied any involvement in the alleged theft. “I do not even drive and I have no licence. I never stole anything,” he told the court. “If I was guilty, I would have confessed. What I have gone through is painful.” In his ruling, Chief Mutasa criticised the use of spiritual retaliation without verified evidence, warning that such actions can have serious consequences for innocent people. “You admitted that action was taken before the truth was established. People must not rush to punish suspects through spiritual means,” he said. The chief ordered both families to travel together to Dangamvura to locate the healer and reverse any alleged harm. “If something was done, let it be undone. After that, this court will hear what remains of the matter,” he ruled. Legal and cultural experts say the case highlights ongoing tensions between traditional belief systems and Zimbabwe’s formal justice framework. According to the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights, disputes involving allegations of witchcraft or spiritual harm often fall into a complex grey area. “While traditional courts play a vital role in community dispute resolution, there is a risk when punitive action is taken without evidence,” a Harare-based legal analyst said. “Such cases can lead to human rights concerns, especially when individuals are harmed based on suspicion.” Public health experts also caution that unexplained illnesses should be thoroughly investigated medically before attributing them to supernatural causes. The case underscores the dangers of acting on unverified claims, particularly in communities where traditional beliefs remain influential. It also raises questions about accountability for cross-border traditional practices involving healers operating outside Zimbabwe’s regulatory oversight. Authorities have not indicated whether any criminal charges will arise from the matter, but the traditional court is expected to reconvene after the alleged reversal process. For now, the focus remains on restoring the health of the affected individual and resolving the dispute peacefully. Chief Mutasa case

Tensions boiled over at the Methodist Revival Church (MRC) in Rusape last Sunday after two rival factions attempted to hold separate worship services in the same building, forcing police to intervene and suspend proceedings. The confrontation involved supporters loyal to MRC founder Phillip Mupindu and a breakaway faction led by Philemon Munyaradzi Chamburuka, whose leadership has been at the centre of a protracted dispute within the church. Eyewitnesses said both groups gathered early in the day, each determined to proceed with its own service despite the ongoing legal dispute. “It was tense from the start. Both sides were singing and trying to outdo each other before police arrived,” said a congregant who requested anonymity. “People feared it could turn violent.” Officers from the Zimbabwe Republic Police Rusape Urban unit moved in to separate the groups and halt all activities. “We cannot allow this to continue because it might end in chaos,” said Sergeant Major Ngangu after engaging leaders from both factions. “A church should not operate this way.” The leadership wrangle dates back several years to a period when Bishop Mupindu suffered a stroke, creating a power vacuum that led to internal divisions. Although he has since recovered and resumed duties, the dispute has escalated into a legal battle over control of church assets and authority. In a ruling delivered on October 23, 2024, High Court judge Rodgers Foroma Manyangadze ordered the Chamburuka-led faction to surrender all church assets, including the Rusape premises, to the Mupindu-led leadership. The judgment also barred the breakaway group from using the MRC name, symbols, and insignia, effectively nullifying Chamburuka’s claim to the bishopric. However, the faction is accused of defying the court order by continuing to occupy church properties and conduct services under the MRC banner. A subsequent attempt to overturn the ruling through a rescission application in November 2024 was struck off the roll. MRC Board of Trustees coordinator Itai Zvenyika Munyoro said the church is now pursuing legal enforcement measures, including engaging the Sheriff’s office to recover assets and initiating contempt of court proceedings. “These steps are necessary to uphold the rule of law and protect the church’s identity,” Munyoro said. He alleged that enforcement efforts have been slowed by resistance on the ground and procedural challenges. According to Munyoro, police requested additional authorisation documents despite being presented with court orders. “That has made it difficult for us to fully reclaim control of the premises,” he added. Despite the police intervention, members aligned to the Chamburuka faction reportedly continued with parts of the disrupted service, led by local leaders in his absence. The standoff reflects deeper divisions within the church, with congregants increasingly split between competing leadership structures. Religious governance experts say such disputes often extend beyond doctrine into control of assets, influence, and institutional legitimacy. “When leadership disputes become legal battles, congregants are often the most affected, as places of worship turn into contested spaces,” said a Harare-based church governance analyst. Authorities have since halted all services at the Rusape church pending further engagement with both factions. Police say the move is aimed at preventing further clashes while legal processes unfold. The incident underscores a growing institutional crisis within the MRC, as unresolved leadership disputes continue to disrupt worship and divide communities. Methodist Revival Church dispute

HARARE — A Harare Member of Parliament has suffered a significant financial loss after a sophisticated inside job at her business premises, resulting in the theft of nearly US$3,900 in cash. Five suspects have since been arrested and arraigned before the courts in connection with the heist. The incident targeted Mother Sharks Butchery and Nightclub in Manresa Park, a business owned by legislator and businesswoman Patricia Kundhlande (54). According to court proceedings, the theft occurred in the early hours of Sunday, April 19, at approximately 12:30 am. The State alleges that Kelvin Zulu (20), who had authorized access to the safe, conspired with an accomplice identified as Washington Sithole, who remains at large, to gain entry to the safe and remove the cash. The robbery appears to have been a coordinated effort involving multiple participants: The Getaway: Tinotenda V. Marecha (26), a taxi driver, was reportedly waiting nearby in a Toyota Aqua to facilitate the suspects' escape. Accomplices: Portia Ngorima (34) and Pretty Ngorima (21) allegedly assisted by transporting a bag containing the stolen funds to the getaway vehicle. They were reportedly dropped off at their homes afterward, allegedly receiving US$20 each for their participation. Transportation of the Fugitive: Marecha allegedly drove the primary suspect, Sithole, to a service station in Mabvuku, where Mike Vheremu (21) took over, driving the fugitive out of Harare to Chivhu. The five accused, Zulu, Marecha, the two Ngorimas, and Vheremu, appeared before Harare magistrate Ruth Moyo, facing charges of theft. Prosecutors state that a total of US$3,874 was stolen, none of which has yet been recovered by authorities. Police investigations are ongoing, with a manhunt currently underway for Washington Sithole. The case highlights the vulnerabilities businesses face when internal security protocols are compromised, as police continue to treat the matter as a suspected inside job. Harare MP business robbery arrest

HARARE — In a coordinated effort to enforce mining regulations and public safety, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has apprehended three individuals in separate incidents involving the illegal possession of explosives and unauthorized mining operations across the country. The arrests underscore a tightening of enforcement regarding the Explosives Act (Chapter 10:08) and the strict regulations governing the storage and handling of dangerous materials. Police investigations into the mismanagement of mining explosives have yielded multiple arrests: Matopo/Esigodini: On April 21, 2026, detectives from the CID Minerals Flora and Fauna Unit (MFFU) raided Malungwane D3 Mine. They arrested Dingani Ncube (42) after discovering 33 Emex cartridge explosives, a roll of detonating lighting cord, and 06 capped fuses inside his cabin without a valid permit. Silobela: In a related operation, police arrested Honest Gumbo (43) at Turtel 53 Mine for failing to comply with the terms of his Explosive Storage Licence (SI 72/89). Authorities recovered a sealed box of explosives and 41 loose fractures that were not securely stored. In a separate incident on April 22, 2026, police conducted a raid at Mount Featherstone, Donkerhoek Farm, in the Chikomba district, following reports of illegal mining. During the operation, officers intercepted Tinashe Nhete (51), a resident of Belgravia, Harare. Nhete had excavated a pit approximately 1.5 meters wide and 3 meters deep. Upon failing to produce any legal mining documentation, he was arrested. Police recovered a comprehensive set of mining tools, including: A mining detector and an Astra Korea generator. A chisel drill, a six-pound hammer, a short-handled pick, and a shovel. 4 explosive fuses, a hand-held chisel, and a tool box. The ZRP has issued a strong reminder to the public regarding the legal requirements for handling explosives. Any activities involving the manufacturing, acquiring, storing, or transporting of explosives must strictly adhere to the guidelines set by the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development. "Members of the public are reminded that violating the provisions of the Explosives Act carries a maximum penalty of two years imprisonment or a fine (level seven) or both," stated Detective Assistant Inspector Muriro M. of the CID Headquarters Press and Public Relations office. Zimbabwe police explosives arrests 2026

HARARE — The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the successful arrest and conviction of two individuals for the vandalism of essential public telecommunications infrastructure in Kuwadzana 5, Harare. The conviction marks a significant enforcement action against those tampering with public utilities, with the court handing down a sentence of ten years' imprisonment to each of the accused. The two convicted individuals, Tinotenda Nyajichi (20) and Pilot Muzira (27), both residents of Dzivarasekwa, Harare, were apprehended following an incident that occurred on April 14, 2026. The pair was caught after they proceeded to a TelOne pole, where they cut drop wires weighing approximately 15kg and loaded them into two sacks. The successful recovery of the stolen infrastructure was attributed to an alert member of the public who notified the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Minerals, Flora, and Fauna. The detectives responded swiftly, leading to the immediate arrest of the suspects and the recovery of the loot. The case was heard at the Harare Magistrates Court on April 21, 2026, before Magistrate Mr. Noel Mupeiwa. The state was represented by Public Prosecutor Ms. Mandirasa Chigumira. Following a full trial, the duo was convicted for contravening Section 89(4)(c) of the Postal and Telecommunication Act, Chapter 12:05, which prohibits the possession of telecommunications infrastructure material without a permit. Each was subsequently sentenced to ten years in prison. The Zimbabwe Republic Police has issued a stern warning to the public regarding the vandalism of public utilities. Law enforcement authorities emphasized that such criminal acts negatively impact national development and are effectively "tantamount to economic sabotage". Police are encouraging continued public cooperation in safeguarding national infrastructure. Members of the public are urged to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the following channels: National Complaints Desk: (0242) 703631 PGHQ WhatsApp: 0712 800 197 CID WhatsApp: 0776 988 007 Digital Platforms: Visit the ZRP website at www.zrp.gov.zw or contact their X handle @PoliceZimbabwe. Zimbabwe infrastructure vandalism conviction

Harare – Auditors have raised serious concerns over the financial viability of Invictus Energy, casting uncertainty over Zimbabwe’s flagship oil and gas ambitions in the Cabora Bassa Basin. In an independent review of the company’s half-year financial results to December 31, 2025, BDO Audit Pvt Ltd director Dave Andrews flagged a “material uncertainty” that could affect Invictus’ ability to continue operating as a going concern. “We draw attention to… conditions which give rise to… significant doubt about the group’s ability to continue,” Andrews said, warning the company may struggle to meet its obligations under normal business conditions. Invictus reported a loss after tax of A$4.2 million, widening from A$3.3 million in the previous period, while net cash outflows reached A$4.1 million. The company acknowledged the risks, noting that its ability to operate over the next 12 months depends on securing additional funding. “The going concern concept relates to the company’s ability to continue operations… without the need to raise money,” Invictus said, adding that this remains uncertain. The warning comes at a critical stage for the Cabora Bassa project, where exploration success must transition into commercial development—a phase that requires significant capital. In January, Invictus terminated a major funding agreement with Al Mansour Holdings and Al Mansour Oil & Gas after failing to agree on revised terms. The deal, initially signed in August 2025, would have seen a 19.9% stake acquisition worth A$37.8 million and potentially unlocked up to US$500 million in future funding. Analysts say the collapse of this agreement removed a crucial financial lifeline at a time when the company needs deep capital reserves. Invictus has since secured A$10 million in new funding, a modest injection relative to the scale required for full development. Managing director Scott Macmillan said the funds will support further exploration, including a planned well targeting the Musuma prospect. “Success at Musuma would expand our resource base and accelerate the transition to commercial development,” he said. The company is building on its earlier Mukuyu gas discovery, which renewed optimism about Zimbabwe’s potential to develop a domestic hydrocarbon industry. Zimbabwe has long relied on fuel imports and faces persistent energy shortages. A successful oil and gas sector could transform the economy, reduce import dependence, and stabilise energy supply. However, experts warn that discovery alone is not enough. “Turning exploration success into production requires sustained investment, technical capacity and investor confidence,” said an energy analyst familiar with frontier markets. Zimbabwe’s ambitions unfold amid rising competition across southern Africa: Namibia has become a hotspot following major offshore discoveries in the Orange Basin. South Africa is advancing gas exploration in the Outeniqua Basin, despite regulatory challenges. Mozambique continues to lead with large-scale LNG projects. Botswana and Zambia are expanding early-stage exploration. While the Cabora Bassa Basin remains one of Zimbabwe’s most promising energy prospects, the latest audit warning underscores a critical reality, financial strength, not just geological potential, will determine success. If funding gaps persist, analysts caution that the project risks stalling, joining other high-potential but underfunded ventures across the region. Invictus Energy Zimbabwe

Harare – More than 250 women attended a free cervical and breast cancer screening outreach in Highfield over two days, reflecting growing awareness of the importance of early detection in Zimbabwe. The programme, spearheaded by Highview Clinic and Maternity in partnership with TM Pick n Pay, CABS, and the Cancer Association of Zimbabwe, exceeded its initial targets as women from surrounding suburbs turned out in large numbers. Resident medical doctor Rejoice Kututwa said the turnout surpassed expectations. “We had a target of 100 patients on the first day and managed to attend to 110 ladies. In total, we expected around 250 women over the two days, but the numbers continue to rise,” she said. Dr Kututwa noted that the initiative is helping to build a culture of proactive health-seeking behaviour, with more women recognising the need for routine screening. “Almost everyone is now conscious of their health. There is increasing awareness that screening is essential,” she added. Health experts warn that cervical cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Zimbabwe, followed by breast cancer. Naomi Badza, Health Services Manager at the Cancer Association of Zimbabwe, stressed the urgency of early diagnosis. “Early detection and screening save lives. We urge all women to take advantage of such programmes and get screened regularly,” she said. Managing Director of Highview Clinic, orthopaedic surgeon Eliot F. Chikati, said collaboration with corporate and health partners was key to the success of the outreach. “We appreciate the support from the Cancer Association of Zimbabwe, TM Pick n Pay and CABS in making this initiative possible,” he said. Beneficiaries praised the programme for providing accessible and timely healthcare services. Glen Norah resident Mary Makombore said the experience was both reassuring and empowering. “I came here expecting to be screened, and I am happy the process was smooth. This initiative has given me peace of mind because I now know my health status,” she said. She encouraged other women to take part in similar programmes. Health officials say the strong turnout highlights a positive shift in public attitudes towards preventive healthcare, particularly in high-density suburbs where access to screening services can be limited. With cancer cases on the rise, stakeholders say community outreach programmes remain critical in bridging healthcare gaps and improving early diagnosis rates. Highfield cancer screening