Debel, Lebanon – The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has sentenced two soldiers to 30 days of military detention after one of them was filmed striking a statue of Jesus with a sledgehammer in southern Lebanon. The military said both soldiers, one who carried out the act and another who photographed it, will also be removed from combat duty following an internal inquiry. The individuals have not been publicly identified. The incident occurred in the village of Debel and quickly drew widespread condemnation after images circulated online. In a statement, the IDF said the soldiers’ actions “completely deviated from IDF orders and values” and expressed “deep regret” over the incident. The military added that six additional soldiers who were present but failed to intervene or report the act will face separate disciplinary measures. Authorities confirmed that the damaged part of a crucifix located outside a family home has since been replaced in coordination with the local community. The IDF emphasised that its operations in Lebanon are directed “solely” against militant groups, including Hezbollah, and not civilians or religious institutions. Local religious leaders strongly condemned the desecration. Father Fadi Flaifel, head of Debel’s congregation, described the act as deeply offensive. “We totally reject the desecration of the cross, our sacred symbol, and all religious symbols,” he told media. “It goes against human rights and does not reflect civility.” He added that similar incidents had occurred previously, raising concerns within the local Christian community. Among those criticising the act was Mike Huckabee, who called for “swift, severe, and public consequences” following what he described as an “outrageous act.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he was “stunned and saddened,” expressing regret for the incident and for any distress caused to believers in Lebanon and globally. The incident comes amid a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, brokered with US involvement, following weeks of fighting between Israeli forces and Hezbollah. Thousands of Israeli troops remain deployed in parts of southern Lebanon, while both sides have accused each other of ceasefire violations. The recent conflict has resulted in significant casualties and displacement. Lebanese authorities report over 2,000 deaths and more than one million displaced, while Israeli officials say attacks by Hezbollah have killed 15 people, including soldiers and civilians. Analysts say incidents involving religious symbols risk inflaming tensions in already volatile conflict zones. “Respect for cultural and religious sites is critical in maintaining community trust during military operations,” said a regional security expert. IDF soldiers Lebanon incident

Global – The head of the world’s largest condom manufacturer, Karex Berhad, has warned that prices could rise by up to 30% or more if ongoing tensions involving Iran continue to disrupt global supply chains. Chief executive Goh Miah Kiat said production costs have surged sharply due to rising raw material prices and shipping disruptions linked to the conflict involving the United States and Israel. Karex, which produces more than five billion condoms annually, supplies major global brands including Durex and Trojan, as well as public health systems such as the UK’s National Health Service. The company relies heavily on petrochemical-based materials, including ammonia for latex preservation and silicone-based lubricants, both of which are affected by fluctuations in oil supply. Disruptions have intensified following threats to shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway through which roughly 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas typically passes. Goh said freight costs have increased significantly, while shipping delays have worsened shortages. At the same time, global demand for condoms has risen by around 30% this year. “In uncertain times, demand tends to increase,” he told Bloomberg, noting that economic instability often leads consumers to prioritise family planning. The price surge highlights how geopolitical tensions are rippling across global markets beyond energy. Analysts say the conflict is contributing to rising costs in multiple sectors, including: Air travel, with economy fares reportedly up by about 24% year-on-year Fertilisers, due to disrupted chemical supply chains Helium, affecting semiconductor production Bottled water, amid shortages of packaging materials The United Nations has also warned that food prices, including sugar, dairy, and fruit, are likely to rise due to increased transportation costs. The situation remains fluid, with peace talks between the US and Iran still ongoing. Former US President Donald Trump recently indicated a ceasefire extension, though the progress of negotiations remains unclear. Industry experts say continued instability in the region could prolong supply chain disruptions, keeping upward pressure on prices for a wide range of consumer goods. For consumers, the potential increase in condom prices could have implications not only for household spending but also for public health programmes, particularly in developing countries where access to affordable contraceptives is critical. “If supply chains remain unstable, we could see sustained price increases across essential health products,” said a global trade analyst. condom prices increase

Harare – Tensions are rising in western Harare after residents and small-scale granite workers raised alarm over a planned relocation from the long-established “Pamatombo” site, in Rugare, at the corner of Douglas Road and Lytton Road. The site, widely known across suburbs such as Mufakose, Kambuzuma, and Warren Park, has for years been a hub for tombstone production, supplying cemeteries across the capital. According to the Rugare Granite Association, more than 95 granite businesses operate at the site and indirectly benefit nearly 800 dependents. Association member and Zanu-Pf PC Rugare Bhamu said the proposed eviction threatens a critical informal industry that has grown organically over decades. “We have over 95 companies here, and nearly 800 people depend on this granite work. Are we now to lose our workspace so one company can park trucks?” he said during a heated stakeholder meeting. The industry has become comparable to other iconic informal markets such as Mbare Musika, Mupedzanhamo, and Glenview Home Industries. Residents say the Harare City Council previously earmarked the land for future development, but they were granted temporary use while awaiting implementation. The association claims it formalised this arrangement through written communication and has been paying fees to council offices in Kambuzuma for continued use of the space. However, concerns escalated after reports that the land is now set to be allocated to a private transport operator identified by residents as Boom Transport or Trade King for use as a truck parking yard at a reported rate of US$1 per day. Residents allege they were not formally notified of the change. Community members also raised technical concerns, claiming the same transporter had previously been denied permission to use the site due to underground infrastructure, including pipes that could be damaged by heavy truck vibrations. “There are serious risks here, yet suddenly the same applicant is being approved,” one resident said. A charged meeting involving Ward 13 councillor Suka, council officials, and stakeholders nearly resulted in the eviction of granite workers earlier this week. However, intervention by Andrew Makahamadze, ZANU-PF District Coordinating Committee (DCC) Zone 6 Secretary for Business and Economic Development, temporarily halted the move. Makahamadze questioned the urgency of the eviction, citing existing paperwork submitted by the association to regularise operations. His intervention prevented immediate displacement, allowing operations to continue for now. The situation has sparked criticism of local leadership, with residents questioning why political intervention was necessary when elected officials were present. Some residents expressed concern over the role of Councillor Suka, accusing her of siding with council officials against the very community that elected her. “Why would our own councillor be part of a team coming to evict us?” one worker asked. Residents are now urging the council to find alternative land for truck parking rather than displacing an established economic hub. Urban planning experts say such conflicts highlight the need for inclusive decision-making that balances formal development with informal sector livelihoods. “This is not just about land it’s about livelihoods, heritage, and urban economic survival,” said a Harare-based analyst. Southerton Business Times tried to reach the Ward 13 councillor, but she was out of town and could not respond in time for publication. Pamatombo Harare eviction

HARARE — The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has signaled a significant strategic shift toward restoring full monetary sovereignty, outlining a long-term roadmap that would eventually see the U.S. dollar phased out for everyday domestic transactions. Speaking at the Zimbabwe Impact Investment Dialogue on Tuesday, RBZ Deputy Governor Innocent Matshe detailed the central bank’s vision to transition toward a single-currency regime anchored by the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG). The forum, which was hosted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA), served as the platform for the central bank to clarify its long-term stance on dollarization. Deputy Governor Matshe was careful to manage expectations regarding the timeline, emphasizing that the move away from the U.S. dollar would be a slow, phased process rather than an overnight shift. “Not soon, but one day,” Matshe stated, noting that the ZiG has already demonstrated resilience, having gained approximately 2.5% in value over the past three months. Under the envisaged framework, the central bank aims to preserve the utility of foreign currency where it is most needed for the economy, while restricting its use in local retail environments. Key features of this proposed long-term transition include: Retail Restriction: The eventual discontinuation of U.S. dollar cash for routine domestic purchases, such as in supermarkets. Preservation of FCAs: Foreign currency accounts (FCAs) would remain active, allowing both businesses and individuals to hold and transact in foreign currency where necessary. Commitment to Obligations: There will be no forced conversion of existing foreign currency balances. Furthermore, foreign-denominated obligations, including registered loans, will continue to be honored in their original currency. Support for Trade: Importers will retain access to foreign exchange through formal banking channels to ensure continued commercial viability. The push for a mono-currency system is driven by the belief that long-term economic development cannot be sustained while relying on a foreign currency. “No country can develop using another country’s currency,” Matshe remarked. He acknowledged the lingering skepticism among the public and the business community, which is deeply rooted in historical episodes of currency volatility and inflation, but stressed that policy consistency is the only pathway to rebuilding trust. For Zimbabwe, which has relied on the U.S. dollar for more than a decade, the shift is viewed as an essential step toward reducing dollarization pressures and creating a more predictable financial environment for domestic planning and investment. Policymakers at the dialogue emphasized that for this vision to materialize, the government must prioritize transparency and consistency. As the RBZ moves toward this goal, the focus remains on enhancing the ZiG’s stability and utility, ensuring that when the transition eventually accelerates, the local currency is ready to serve as the primary store of value and medium of exchange for the nation. RBZ ZiG mono-currency strategy

HARARE — A routine morning shift in Workington, Harare, ended in heartbreak on Wednesday after three workers lost their lives in a devastating industrial accident. The workers were killed when a massive crate of glass panels collapsed on them during an offloading operation at a local company. The incident, which involved a team of eight employees, has cast a somber mood over the industrial hub and ignited urgent discussions regarding workplace safety protocols in heavy industrial sectors. According to accounts from the scene, the accident occurred with almost no warning, leaving the workers little opportunity to move to safety. Tanaka Chagonda, one of the workers present during the delivery, described the terrifying sequence of events to the press: “We were offloading a crate of glass panels from the truck when one of the crates slipped and crushed three of our colleagues. It was very frightening.” Another worker, Phineas Hlanganisa, expressed the emotional toll on the surviving team members: “One moment we were working, and the next we heard screams. It was a terrible scene. The crate fell on them, and they died in a very painful way. This is our job, but it should not end like this.” The accident resulted in a close brush with death for others on the team. Aleck Muzozo, who was working in the immediate vicinity of the collapse, narrowly escaped with minor injuries. “I was working exactly where the three men died, but I managed to duck, and the crate only grazed my face. I thank God I survived, but I am not okay one of the deceased is my brother,” Muzozo said. Preliminary investigations and accounts from the site suggest a potential breakdown in communication and safety execution. Crane operator Question Muringwa highlighted a critical technical failure that may have precipitated the collapse. “I was operating the crane, and I think there was a miscommunication. A safety belt was not secured where it should have been. By the time I heard the screams and tried to lift the crate, it was already too late,” Muringwa explained. Emergency services, including the City of Harare Fire Brigade, arrived promptly at the scene to manage the situation and facilitate the recovery of the bodies trapped beneath the glass. Police cordoned off the area to conduct forensic examinations amidst the debris of shattered glass. Of the five surviving workers, one was rushed to the hospital with injuries. Authorities have stated that the identities of the deceased will be released once their next of kin have been formally notified. The incident has drawn sharp criticism from stakeholders, with many calling for a comprehensive audit of safety procedures for companies handling heavy and hazardous materials. There is a growing consensus that stricter adherence to international safety standards is required to ensure that such industrial tragedies are not repeated. Workington industrial accident Harare

ASMARA — In a move to strengthen diplomatic ties and secure regional support for international ambitions, President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe has formally reached out to President Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea. The message, delivered by Zimbabwe’s Ambassador, Dr. Emmanuel Bulukani, at the Denden Guest House in Asmara, formally requested Eritrea’s backing for Zimbabwe’s bid to secure a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). During the high-level meeting, which was also attended by the Eritrean Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Osman Saleh, the discussion transcended the immediate request for diplomatic support. President Isaias Afwerki used the opportunity to emphasize a long-term strategic vision for the continent. President Isaias underlined the "imperative for Africa to embark on the expensive venture of value addition for processing its vast natural resources." He noted that such a shift is essential for the continent to assume its "rightful place in the global order" and would fundamentally accelerate mutual partnership and cooperation among all African nations. Ambassador Dr. Bulukani expressed Zimbabwe’s commitment to forging deeper ties with Eritrea. In a press statement issued to the Eritrean News Agency following the meeting, the Ambassador highlighted Harare's readiness to develop "concrete programs of bilateral cooperation." Key areas of focus include: Multilateral Alignment: Consolidating coordination and alignment of positions between the two nations at major forums, including the African Union and the United Nations. Economic Synergy: Exploring collaborative efforts in trade and resource management in line with the president's shared vision for African self-reliance. As Zimbabwe ramps up its diplomatic engagement to secure the UNSC seat, the successful mobilization of support from key partners like Eritrea is seen as a critical component of its broader foreign policy strategy to amplify African voices on the international stage. Zimbabwe UN Security Council bid Eritrea's support

HARARE — The board of Nedbank Zimbabwe Limited has announced the appointment of veteran banker Betty Murambadoro as the bank's new Managing Director. The appointment was confirmed today by Chairperson Innocent Dutiro, marking a significant leadership shift for the institution as it navigates the evolving Zimbabwean financial landscape. Murambadoro steps into the role with an extensive background in senior leadership, particularly within corporate and investment banking. She is widely recognized for her expertise in client coverage, specifically within the mining sector, and has earned a reputation for successfully steering complex transactions and driving balance sheet growth. Her career has been defined by her ability to foster strategic relationships across government, corporate entities, and international partners. Before this appointment, her career path included influential roles at Standard Bank Eswatini, Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe, and Stanbic Nominees, where she was deeply involved in: Risk Oversight: Ensuring institutional stability and compliance. Corporate Governance: Implementing robust administrative frameworks. Regulatory Engagement: Navigating the complexities of regional banking environments. Beyond her operational experience, Murambadoro brings a modern approach to banking, underpinned by international training in sustainable finance and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. Chairperson Innocent Dutiro expressed confidence in Murambadoro’s ability to lead the bank effectively, citing her deep understanding of the local market and her consistent professional performance. "Her strong grasp of the local market and established professional track record position her to provide steady leadership," Dutiro stated in the announcement. The board has tasked the new Managing Director with ensuring continuity in the execution of Nedbank’s core strategy. Stakeholders and clients can expect a renewed focus on strengthening the bank’s commitment to the wider Zimbabwean economy, as the board looks to Murambadoro to balance the need for innovative growth with prudent governance. Betty Murambadoro Nedbank Zimbabwe MD

VICTORIA FALLS — The Zimbabwean government has officially finalized a landmark US$92.5 million land development agreement with a consortium led by construction magnate JR Goddard. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in the development of the Masuwe Special Economic Zone (SEZ), aimed at transforming 271.5 hectares of land into a premier commercial and tourism hub. The agreement, finalized following a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, focuses on Lot 1 of the Jafuta Estate, an area situated within the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area. The project structure is divided to ensure shared risk and investment between the state and the private sector: Government Contribution: The state, represented by the Mosi Oa Tunya Development Company, is providing the land as equity valued at US$25.6 million, securing a 39% stake in the venture. Consortium Investment: The JR Goddard-led consortium is contributing US$66.9 million toward critical infrastructure, granting them a 61% stake in the project. The consortium is expected to recover this investment over a 25-year timeframe. The project was facilitated by the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA), which initiated the tender process in 2025 as part of a national strategy to attract private capital into designated economic zones. The consortium’s investment is earmarked for essential infrastructure that will serve as the foundation for the broader development. Key commitments include: The construction of a 13km water pipeline. The establishment of a new water treatment plant and sewerage systems. The development of a power substation and an extensive road network. The long-term vision for the Masuwe SEZ is comprehensive, aiming to integrate tourism, financial services, and commercial activity. Planned facilities within the zone include: Hotels, luxury villas, flats, and holiday homes. Medical centers and a tourism school. A golf estate and an international cricket stadium, which is already under construction. The development team comprises project managers Sesani, engineering firm Stewart Scott Zimbabwe, and financial advisors Genesis Global Finance. This project arrives at a time when Victoria Falls continues to cement its status as Zimbabwe's most vital tourism destination. For the JR Goddard group, this initiative runs in parallel with their separate efforts to raise funds for the Glass Block Dam project, which is intended to alleviate water shortages in Bulawayo. Victoria Falls Masuwe Special Economic Zone investment 2026

HARARE — The ruling ZANU-PF party is reportedly orchestrating a massive campaign to secure support for the controversial Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, with internal directives targeting over 45,000 written submissions from Mashonaland West province alone. According to leaked internal communications, Mashonaland West provincial chairperson Mary Mliswa has issued a clear mandate to party structures, including the Provincial Coordinating Committee (PCC), District Coordinating Committee (DCC), Members of Parliament, councillors, and traditional leaders. The directive sets strict quotas to be met by Thursday, aiming to consolidate support for the proposed legislative changes. The mobilization strategy outlines specific performance targets for party leadership to ensure the submission goal is reached: PCC Members: Each is tasked with facilitating 100 submissions. DCC Members: Each is required to oversee 50 submissions. Members of Parliament: Each MP is expected to secure at least 5,000 copies. The leaked message explicitly instructs party cadres to coordinate closely with traditional leadership and provides a standard template for these submissions, though it notes that ordinary paper is also acceptable. The Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 is currently before Parliament and has triggered intense national debate. At its core, the bill proposes significant structural changes, including provisions that critics fear could allow President Emmerson Mnangagwa to extend his tenure beyond the current two-term limit, potentially reaching 2030. The mobilization drive follows a series of public hearings that concluded two weeks ago, which were marked by significant controversy. Civil society organizations and opposition groups have alleged that these proceedings were procedurally biased and tilted in favor of pro-amendment voices, effectively stifling dissenting opinions. With the deadline for written submissions set for May 17, 2026, the political tension surrounding the reform process continues to escalate. As the ruling party intensifies its efforts to secure a massive showing of support, observers remain focused on whether these submissions will be viewed as a true reflection of public sentiment or as a coordinated effort to manufacture consensus for a bill that remains one of the most polarizing legislative initiatives in recent history. ZANU-PF Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 submissions

BULAWAYO — In a major move to bolster youth entrepreneurship, the Government has officially launched a US$1 million Youth Economic Fund. Designed to expand financial access for young entrepreneurs across all 10 provinces, the initiative aims to stimulate innovation and combat the significant challenge of youth unemployment. The fund was unveiled during National Youth Day celebrations on the sidelines of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), which is running from April 20 to 25. The initiative is a cornerstone of the 2025 National Youth Empowerment Strategy, championed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, which seeks to integrate young people who make up more than 60% of Zimbabwe’s estimated 16 million population into the mainstream economy. "The initiative is designed to support youth-led businesses, stimulate innovation and create jobs in an economy where unemployment among young people remains a major challenge," officials stated. EmpowerBank has been tasked with the administration, disbursement, and nationwide management of the fund. While the official application process and eligibility criteria have yet to be released, the launch has garnered significant high-level support: Financial Oversight: Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) Governor John Mushayavanhu attended the launch, signaling the central bank's commitment to the initiative. International Backing: Representatives from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) were present, highlighting the international community's support for the project. Focus Areas: Discussions centered on three critical pillars: improving financial literacy, expanding access to capital, and strengthening skills development to ensure the sustainability of youth enterprises. Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation, Tino Machakaire, emphasized that the fund is a direct response to the need for economic inclusivity for the country's youth. The sentiment was echoed by Ruth Mugwagwa, chairperson of the Zimbabwe Youth Council, who urged young citizens to seize the opportunity. "Dream big and focus on creating jobs," Mugwagwa said. As Zimbabwe intensifies its efforts to position entrepreneurship as a primary driver of economic recovery, this fund represents a critical step in providing the necessary capital for the next generation of business leaders to succeed.  Zimbabwe Youth Economic Fund 2026

Mutare – Police in Dangamvura have launched a manhunt following a rape and robbery incident in which a female bar owner was attacked by an unidentified armed suspect who broke into her premises at night. The case, currently under investigation by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), occurred on April 16 at around 10 pm after the victim had closed her bar and secured the premises. According to police reports, the suspect, described as a masked man armed with a knife, gained entry through the back door and demanded cash. He allegedly forced the complainant to open a cashbox before stealing approximately US$380, leaving behind smaller amounts, including R340 and US$10 in low denominations. Police say the attacker then forced the victim toward the exit, where he allegedly tied her hands using a shoelace before sexually assaulting her. Authorities further allege that the suspect committed a second assault before returning to the bar area, where he stole additional items, including alcoholic beverages, among them branded spirits and ciders, as well as a mobile phone that had been left charging. After the attack, the suspect reportedly untied the victim and fled the scene. The incident was reported at Dangamvura Police Station, after which the victim was referred to Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital for medical examination and care. Police have not released further details about the victim in order to protect her identity. Authorities have intensified efforts to locate the suspect, who remains at large. Members of the public with any information that may assist in the investigation are being urged to come forward. “This is a serious and disturbing case, and we are appealing to anyone with information to assist police,” a ZRP official said. The incident has raised concerns about safety and security for small business owners operating in high-density suburbs, particularly those working late hours. Security experts advise business operators to strengthen access control measures, improve lighting around premises, and consider coordinated community watch systems to reduce vulnerability. Survivors of sexual violence are encouraged to seek immediate medical care and report cases to the police. Support services are also available through the Zimbabwe Republic Police Victim Friendly Unit, which provides confidential assistance. Dangamvura rape case

Harare – A 42-year-old man from Beatrice has been sentenced to nine years in prison after being convicted of unlawfully possessing raw, unmarked ivory in a case that underscores Zimbabwe’s crackdown on wildlife crime. Fradreck Magwere, of Nyambiri Farm, was convicted by the Harare Magistrates' Court following his arrest during a police sting operation carried out on 8 January 2026 along the Harare–Masvingo Highway. According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe, detectives acted on a tip-off and posed as potential buyers at the Southlea Park turn-off. After negotiating a price of US$70 per kilogram, Magwere allegedly produced the ivory, prompting officers to move in and arrest him on the spot. A backup police team secured the scene and recovered the contraband. Authorities confiscated two elephant tusks weighing 9.65 kilogrammes, with an estimated value of US$1,640.50. The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority later confirmed that the ivory was raw and unmarked, indicating it had not been legally registered or processed. Magwere pleaded not guilty during the trial. However, the court found no special circumstances to justify leniency and imposed a nine-year custodial sentence, reflecting the seriousness with which Zimbabwean courts treat wildlife offences. The NPAZ warned that poaching and illegal wildlife trade remain major threats to Zimbabwe’s biodiversity and tourism sector. “Such offences will attract severe penalties,” the authority said, urging members of the public to report suspected poaching activities. Zimbabwe has intensified efforts to combat wildlife crime in recent years, amid increasing pressure from international conservation groups and declining elephant populations in parts of southern Africa. Wildlife experts say illegal ivory trade continues to be driven by demand in global black markets, making enforcement and community awareness critical. “Strong law enforcement, combined with community engagement, is key to protecting endangered species,” said a Harare-based conservationist. Authorities are encouraging citizens to work with law enforcement agencies to curb poaching and protect the country’s natural heritage. The latest conviction is seen as part of broader efforts to deter offenders and strengthen Zimbabwe’s wildlife protection framework. ivory possession Zimbabwe