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GMB and ZMX Logos Reporter The Zimbabwe Mercantile Exchange (ZMX) and the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) have announced a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing agricultural market efficiency through the introduction of a national Warehouse Receipt System (WRS). This initiative is designed to improve farmers' access to financial services, particularly for self-financed farmers and producers not participating in the Presidential Input Programme (PIP) or the Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA) scheme. Certified Warehouses and Accessibility GMB is providing 10 certified warehouses across Zimbabwe, strategically located in Aspindale, Concession, Banket, Chegutu, Gweru, Bulawayo, Norton, Lion’s Den, Magunje, and Murehwa. This collaboration allows farmers to store their produce securely and access financial services using warehouse receipts as collateral. Mr. Collen Tapfumaneyi, ZMX CEO, and Dr. Edson Badarai, GMB CEO, both emphasised the importance of this initiative. “This platform empowers farmers by providing options to sell immediately, access credit, or procure inputs using grain receipts as collateral,” they stated. How the Warehouse Receipt System Works Under the WRS, farmers who deliver their grain to certified warehouses will receive a warehouse receipt. This document functions as both a security and a financial instrument. With it, farmers can choose to: Sell their grain immediately through the ZMX auction; Use the receipt as collateral to access credit facilities; Or purchase agricultural inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, and agrochemicals. To participate, farmers must open a free ZMX account via USSD, mobile app, or online platform. After booking a delivery to one of the certified warehouses, they will receive their warehouse receipt upon grading and weighing. Stabilising Markets and Supporting Food Security Officials believe that this innovative system will help stabilise grain supply chains, promote price transparency, and contribute significantly to national food security by offering market-driven incentives and financial inclusion for smallholder and independent farmers.

The Late Nigel John Wyngard Reporter - Imbuwa Mubiana Nigel John Wyngard, the beloved founder of Ovation—the Afro-fusion band that grew into the popular Zimbabwean group FaB Ovation—passed away peacefully on June 23, 2025 , a day that poignantly coincided with what would have been his wedding anniversary  with his late wife. This deeply symbolic timing added a heartfelt layer to an already emotional moment, capturing a love story that clearly transcends this lifetime. Born on October 28, 1949 , Nigel was not only a pioneering musician but also a devoted family man. A gifted guitarist and composer , he founded Ovation in Bulawayo in 2011. His mission was to create a band that fused Zimbabwean traditional music with ethnic and Western influences. This passion laid the groundwork for the signature sound of FaB Ovation , a sound that would evolve into one of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated contributions to the Afro-fusion genre. A Legacy Carried Forward FaB Ovation, now led by his son Brennan Wyngard  and daughter-in-law Faith Wyngard , continues to build on Nigel’s legacy. Known for their soulful love songs  and energetic dance tunes , the band has performed at major regional festivals including HIFA , the Tumaini Festival  and Tisangare Festival  in Malawi, and the Miombo Magic Festival 2022 . In 2019, FaB Ovation was the opening act for international singer Rob Burrell  at the ZimStock Goes Carnival Music Festival , a career highlight that demonstrated the band’s growing prominence. Their music is distinguished by a rich instrumental mix featuring saxophone, marimba, trumpet, and guitars —an auditory tapestry woven directly from Nigel's vision for Afro-fusion that is inclusive, vibrant, and deeply rooted in culture. A Life Celebrated in Spirit and Song To honor his life, a Requiem Mass  will be held on Friday, July 4, 2025 , at 10:00 AM  at St Elizabeth's Anglican Church  in Belvedere, Clarendon Crescent . The Wyngard family has invited friends, fans, and the public to join them in celebrating a man whose influence stretched far beyond music. His passing on the day of his wedding anniversary has struck a deeply emotional chord, symbolizing the enduring love and spiritual connection  between Nigel and his late wife. The family expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of condolences, emphasizing Nigel’s role not only as a musician and founder , but as a father, mentor, and cultural anchor . An Enduring Influence on Zimbabwean Music Nigel John Wyngard’s life was a testament to the power of music to build bridges—across cultures, across generations, and across emotional landscapes. His vision for Ovation, and later FaB Ovation, created a space where traditional Zimbabwean rhythms could meet global influences to produce something truly unique. As the Zimbabwean music community and his loved ones mourn his loss, they also celebrate the profound legacy he leaves behind . Through FaB Ovation, his music will continue to inspire, uplift, and unify , ensuring that the Wyngard name remains forever etched in the heart of Zimbabwean cultural heritage.

The Late Clancy Mbirimi Reporter - Imbuwa Mubinana Clancy Mbirimi, a respected Zimbabwean bassist and a prominent figure in the country’s jazz music scene, passed away recently, sending shockwaves through Zimbabwe’s music fraternity. The news of his death was made public on June 28, 2025, by renowned musician and family friend Clive “Mono” Mukundu via social media. Mukundu described the loss as a devastating blow to Zimbabwe’s music industry, underscoring the profound grief and reverence felt across the community. Clancy hailed from a deeply musical family led by the late Friday Mbirimi Senior. His brother, the late Friday Mbirimi, was a jazz legend and member of the iconic Mbare Trio, which also featured Lovejoy Mbirimi and William Kashiri. The group was pivotal to the evolution of Zimbabwe’s township jazz culture, known for its soulful, harmonic performances that defined an era. Clancy carried this legacy forward with distinction, becoming a central figure in sustaining the family’s musical heritage. A veteran bassist, Clancy was a member of the influential Harare Mambos band and contributed to numerous musical projects over the years. His musicianship and quiet dedication to Zimbabwean jazz earned him the admiration of peers and fans alike. Beyond the stage, Clancy also worked behind the scenes as a music producer, nurturing up-and-coming talent and shaping the sound of emerging artists in Zimbabwe. Celebrating a Life in Music and Community Funeral arrangements brought together mourners at Beatrice Cottages in Mbare—a location symbolic not only for the Mbirimi family but also for the broader music community in Harare. Clancy is set to be buried on Tuesday, June 31, 2025, at Zororo Memorial Park. The gathering of family, musicians, and fans highlights the deep cultural footprint the Mbirimi family has left on Zimbabwe’s artistic landscape. The funeral serves both as a moment of mourning and a celebration of a life lived in service of music and community. Tributes from fellow musicians reflect Clancy’s behind-the-scenes influence on Zimbabwe’s musical journey. Clive “Mono” Mukundu, himself a celebrated producer and artist, credited Clancy for being instrumental in launching his own production career. In his book Following the Melody , Mono recounts how Clancy was the first to recognize his potential and played a key role in getting legendary producer Elias Musakwa to hire him—an opportunity that shaped Mono’s career trajectory. Legacy of a Quiet Architect in Zimbabwean Jazz Clancy and Mono’s collaboration stretched over decades. In 1999, the pair were part of the Revival Ministries Praise and Worship Team—one of many projects they shared. Clancy’s role in these collaborations was often humble but pivotal, contributing quietly and meaningfully to both musical execution and production. His influence extended beyond performance. As a producer, Clancy worked with various record labels, helping shape the sound of Zimbabwean music through mentorship, guidance, and technical skill. His ability to develop young talent made him a central but often understated figure in the country’s creative ecosystem. The loss of Clancy Mbirimi marks the end of a significant chapter in Zimbabwean jazz. For decades, the Mbirimi family has been at the heart of the country’s cultural heartbeat. Clancy’s passing not only leaves a personal void in the lives of those who knew him but also signifies the closing of a powerful era in local music history. His contributions will live on through the musicians he inspired, the records he helped craft, and the legacy he shared with his brother and family.

Aptiva AI Logo By Edward Makuzva When the story of Africa’s digital transformation is told, few names are likely to resonate louder than John Arufandika. As the Executive Head of Digital Engineering at Aptiva AI , Arufandika is not just riding the wave of artificial intelligence—he’s helping to shape it. With a career spanning broadcasting, telecommunications, AI, and digital strategy, Arufandika is a rare hybrid: part technologist, part strategist, and full-time visionary. From leading AI projects at major banks to building sovereign large language models at his startup Afropost AI, Arufandika has made it his mission to make African technology by Africans, for Africans. The Aptiva Mission: Secure, Explainable, African AI At Aptiva AI, Arufandika leads a multidisciplinary team dedicated to building secure, explainable, and sovereign AI systems tailored to Africa’s digital context.“Our philosophy is simple,” he says. “We believe in AI from every angle. From the boardroom to the command line, our solutions must be responsible, relevant, and radically transformative.” Under his leadership, Aptiva has positioned itself as a full-service AI agency, offering solutions that range from private large language model (LLM) deployments and retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) systems to AI-driven business automation. These systems cater to law firms, banks, fintechs, and public institutions across the continent. A flagship project includes VaultAI—a self-hosted solution built for a South African fintech. Powered by LLaMA 3 (70B), the system operates on secure private infrastructure and integrates tools like ChromaDB and LlamaIndex. It enables real-time question answering over sensitive financial and legal documents, without exposing data to third-party providers like Anthropic or OpenAI. “We call it EnterpriseGPT for Professionals,” Arufandika says. From National Broadcaster to Global Technologist Before Aptiva, Arufandika’s career began in journalism, where he served as Business and Technology Editor at the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC). He later transitioned into digital innovation, holding leadership roles at top regional firms—including Vodacom, South Africa’s largest telecom provider. There, he pioneered the Quad Play lifestyle platform and spearheaded MVNO innovations that bridged mobile and content services. More recently, Arufandika led AI integration projects at a leading South African bank. His contributions included building a blockchain-powered auction platform and automating credit lending systems by embedding Salesforce and AI-powered workflows into legacy infrastructure. Academic Depth and Strategic Insight Arufandika’s technical leadership is grounded in strong academic foundations. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Artificial Intelligence, with a research focus on Explainable AI (XAI), Human-Machine Co-creativity, and Ethical AI. His contributions to scholarly discourse include chapters on AI and political communication in Africa. This academic rigor is reflected in his corporate work, where digital transformation, legacy modernization, and data ethics form the backbone of his strategic approach. Whether conducting digital maturity assessments for broadcasters or advising financial institutions on AI risk governance, Arufandika balances boardroom insight with engineering precision. Championing Local Innovation Beyond enterprise solutions, Arufandika is deeply committed to nurturing local AI talent. He has been instrumental in launching Aptiva AI’s mentorship and skills development program and is working to establish the Machine Learning Indaba SADC—a regional summit focused on advancing African frontier technologies. He also helped launch Aptiva Media Group, a publishing arm that produces journals chronicling African innovation, spotlighting breakthroughs in machine learning, data science, and AI policy across the continent. Looking Ahead So what’s next for John Arufandika?“Africa doesn’t just need tech—it needs trusted, context-aware, and strategic AI,” he says. “My goal is to help governments, companies, and startups reimagine what’s possible when we build with purpose.” In a continent that has long relied on imported innovation, Arufandika symbolizes a powerful shift—where Africa takes the lead in shaping its digital destiny.

Afro-Sino Dreams Presented by Note2etoN | June 28, 2025 | Reps Theatre, Harare On June 28, 2025, the Theatre Upstairs at Reps Theatre in Harare became a vibrant stage for cultural innovation during Afro-Sino Dreams, a groundbreaking concert presented by Note2etoN. The event brought together musicians from China and Zimbabwe in a powerful celebration of heritage, artistic mastery, and unity through sound. It was more than a performance—it was a testament to cross-cultural collaboration, music education, and shared humanity. At the heart of the evening was Belle Qiu, a professional Guqin player from Sichuan, China, whose instrument—a seven-string zither—boasts over 7,000 years of history. Belle, also a Chinese medicine doctor and acupuncturist, has deeply immersed herself in Zimbabwean culture since relocating. A student at the Zimbabwe College of Music, she has studied local instruments and dance, grown fond of sadza and vegetarian cuisine, and performed with elegance and emotion that connected continents. Her musical journey includes performances across China and features on China National Television. Joining her was Zimbabwe’s Anesu Ndoro, a self-taught instrument builder and multi-instrumentalist. Anesu’s mastery of rare African stringed instruments—including the Chipendani, Xitende, Chivandudzo, Uhadi, Umakhweyana, and the Autoharp—made the performance a reverent homage to African musical roots. His arrangements breathe new life into traditional Zimbabwean sounds, positioning him as both a cultural archivist and innovator. Also performing was the seasoned Sabelo Nyoni, pianist, musicologist, and founder of Note2etoN. With over four decades of musical experience, Sabelo’s leadership has transformed the local music scene. Under her guidance, Note2etoN became the first Zimbabwean adult choir to qualify for the World Choir Games, winning two Silver Medals in 2016. Her collaborative spirit and deep musical insight anchored the ensemble's vision of unity through music. Cross-Cultural Synergy and Shared Languages What made Afro-Sino Dreams truly memorable was its authentic spirit of exchange. Belle’s multilingual performances—singing folk songs in Shona, Zulu, Xhosa, and Xichangana—left the audience both surprised and inspired. Her dedication to understanding and sharing in southern African cultures set a powerful example of cultural respect. In a remarkable reciprocal moment, Anesu and Sabelo then Joined Belle in performing Guqin Duet on a second Guqin, stepping into Belle’s world with equal care and precision. This mutual exchange was not just symbolic—it was deeply humanizing, showcasing the sincerity of their artistic connection. The highlight of the evening came when Belle and Anesu performed a lively Mbakumba dance which Belle learnt during her studies at the Zimbabwe College of Music. Their joyful movement was complemented by the surprise appearance of drumming master Othnel Mangoma, whose infectious energy turned the concert into a celebration. This unplanned collaboration brought the audience to their feet in a moment that perfectly captured the concert’s ethos. Education, Storytelling, and Community Connection The trio didn't just perform—they taught. They gave rich historical context to their instruments, discussing the Guqin’s ancient lineage, the spiritual significance of traditional Zimbabwean instruments, and the piano’s place in both African and Western traditions. These stories deepened the audience’s understanding, transforming each musical piece into an educational experience. Audience engagement was central throughout the evening. The performers led singalongs of folk songs, inviting the crowd into the music and breaking the fourth wall. The result was a shared space that blurred the line between performer and listener—a celebration of community as much as artistry.

The late Former President Edgar Lungu Source: Online sources The Zambian government has successfully obtained a court order halting the burial of former President Edgar Lungu in South Africa. The order was issued on Wednesday after a last-minute legal challenge that was heard on the very day Lungu’s funeral was scheduled to take place. As a result, members of the late president’s family, dressed in black funeral attire, were forced to postpone attending the burial service and instead appear at a courtroom in Pretoria. The Pretoria High Court ruled that Lungu’s burial would be postponed until a final decision is made in the ongoing legal dispute over his final resting place. A new hearing date has been set for August 4. This legal intervention is the latest development in a nearly month-long standoff between Lungu’s family and the Zambian government regarding the funeral arrangements. The government has insisted that the late president should receive a state funeral in Zambia. However, Lungu’s family opposes this, stating that he did not wish for the current President, Hakainde Hichilema, to be present at his funeral. While this has not been officially confirmed, many speculate that this request stemmed from a longstanding feud between the two former political rivals. Edgar Lungu, who served as Zambia’s president from 2015 until 2021, passed away at the age of 68 on June 5, 2025, in a hospital in South Africa after battling an undisclosed illness.

Botswana Becomes First High-HIV-Burden Nation to Eliminate Mother-to-Child HIV Transmission ( image ) Source: Trends Africa Botswana has made global health history by becoming the first African country—and the first among high HIV-burden nations—to receive the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Gold Tier certification for eliminating mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV. This achievement reflects decades of consistent public health investment and global leadership in fighting the HIV epidemic. The WHO designation falls under the United Nations-led Triple Elimination Initiative, which focuses on eradicating vertical transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Botswana met all the initiative’s stringent requirements, signaling not just national achievement but renewed hope for similar progress worldwide. Botswana’s progress is particularly powerful given its historical context. In the 1990s, the country was the epicenter of the HIV/AIDS crisis. By 1999, it had one of the world’s highest adult HIV prevalence rates—nearly 30%—and faced devastating impacts on life expectancy, public health systems, and economic development. But Botswana's trajectory changed drastically thanks to aggressive reforms and targeted interventions. By 2023, UNAIDS reported that only 1.2% of infants born in Botswana contracted HIV, with fewer than 100 pediatric cases nationwide—well below the WHO’s elimination threshold. This success is largely due to the early adoption of Option B+ , a program offering lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART) to all pregnant and breastfeeding women living with HIV, regardless of clinical symptoms. Universal free ART access—extended to both citizens and non-citizens—further supported treatment adherence and health outcomes. Botswana’s healthcare infrastructure was another major contributor. The integration of digital tools like Open Medical Record System (Open-MRS) allowed real-time monitoring of patient care, while decentralised healthcare services brought consistent care to even the most remote communities. Additionally, civil society organisations played a crucial role in raising awareness, encouraging partner testing, developing male-friendly clinics, and fighting stigma—essential steps for promoting long-term engagement in care.

Young Kenyan Protestors( image ) Reporter At least 16 people have died and over 400 others were injured during large-scale anti-government protests in Kenya, according to Amnesty International and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights . The demonstrations, which swept across major cities, were a response to police brutality, government corruption, and controversial tax hikes. Most casualties were reported in the capital, Nairobi, where protesters, police officers, and journalists sustained injuries from live fire, rubber bullets, and physical beatings. The unrest was marked by violent clashes between demonstrators and police forces, who used tear gas and batons to disperse crowds. The protests commemorate the one-year anniversary of the 2023 youth-led uprising against tax increases. During last year's demonstrations, at least 60 people were reportedly killed by security forces. This year, thousands of people took to the streets waving Kenyan flags and holding placards bearing images of victims from previous protests. The crowd chanted slogans like “Ruto must go,” targeting President William Ruto, whose proposed economic reforms remain widely unpopular. Demonstrations extended beyond Nairobi, with clashes also reported in Matuu, a town approximately 100km (62 miles) from the capital. Authorities responded by blocking major roads into Nairobi’s central business district and barricading key government buildings with razor wire. The government initially banned live TV and radio broadcasts of the protests, but the High Court in Nairobi overturned the decree, affirming the right to information and freedom of the press. President Ruto, who was attending a funeral in Kilifi County during the unrest, urged demonstrators to avoid destabilizing the country. “Protests should not be to destroy peace in Kenya. We do not have another country to go to when things go wrong,” he said. His absence from State House, despite protestors attempting to reach it, was notable, as security forces erected barricades around the residence and parliament.

Kudzie Kays By Mubiana Imbuwa Release Year : 2025 Genre : World Music Label : Independent / Blessed Kudzai Shayamano Artistic Evolution and Theme Kudzie Kayz’s The Experience  is a bold sophomore effort that transcends the boundaries of his debut, Mavambo . The album’s title reflects its narrative depth—each track serves as a vignette of personal growth, socio-political commentary, and cultural fusion. Kayz’s sound remains firmly rooted in world music, blending Zimbabwean sonic traditions with global influences, reminiscent of artists like Mahmoud Turki and Bakan Önder. Standout tracks like Shanduko  and Tinzweiwo Mambo  (feat. Tyla) showcase his ability to merge traditional rhythms with contemporary production, while Regera  (feat. Ras Caleb) introduces reggae-inflected grooves. The album’s lyrical themes—resilience, love, and social justice—echo the introspective tone of his earlier Pandemic Diaries – EP  (2021), now elevated with artistic maturity and purpose. Production, Collaborations, and Social Impact Recorded at Tach Studios under the guidance of producer Tapiwa Njonjonjo, the album's polished and cohesive sound belies its tight one-month production schedule. The live band—featuring Liberty Saizi (keys), Itai Chimombe (guitar), and powerhouse vocalists Nicholar Mtumwa and Fungai Chinogaramo—adds texture and depth. Collaborations with artists such as Tyla ( Tinzweiwo Mambo ) and Richie ( Siya Ndiyende ) provide vocal and instrumental diversity. More than a musical release, The Experience  also served as a platform for advocacy. The album’s launch doubled as a fundraiser for Tariro , a nonprofit supporting girls affected by HIV—a cause close to Kayz’s heart. While the turnout was modest compared to Mavambo , the sincerity of the event mirrored the album’s themes of community, identity, and resilience. Hiatus, Reception, and Technical Observations Kayz has framed The Experience  as a temporary farewell—a moment to pause, recharge, and reflect before entering his next creative phase. This context gives emotional weight to tracks like Hupenyu  (“Life”) and Chirere  (“Legacy”), which contemplate legacy, change, and rebirth. Although formal reviews remain limited, the album’s presence on Apple Music and Shazam’s curated charts signal rising international appeal. Its genre-fluid aesthetic aligns with global listening trends, yet remains distinctively Zimbabwean—setting Kayz apart from artists like Kyza (a UK rapper with an unrelated album of the same name), Diversidad (Europe), and Jamaica’s Lila Iké. Production Review, Key Tracks & Final Verdict The production—helmed by Tapiwa Njonjonjo—is sleek and immersive, delivering lush instrumentation and crisp mixing. One minor technical flaw becomes noticeable on casual listening devices: the kick drum’s deep EQ curve, designed for high-end bass systems, sacrifices punch on phones, laptops, and midrange speakers. While intentional or not, this slightly narrows accessibility for the average listener. That said, the sound remains rich and deliberate. Key Standout Tracks: Shanduko : A masterful mix of modern production and Zimbabwean tradition. Tinzweiwo Mambo  (feat. Tyla): A hypnotic, groove-led standout. Regera  (feat. Ras Caleb): Reggae-toned and lyrically compelling. These songs highlight Kayz’s growth in songwriting, shedding the occasional heavy-handedness of earlier works for greater nuance and poetic depth. The Experience is, by far, his most mature and impactful release. Final Verdict : 9/10 – A landmark album in Zimbabwean world music, balancing activism, artistry, and emotional resonance.

Zimura Logo Reporter The Zimbabwe Music Rights Association ( ZIMURA ) has denied allegations of fraud following recent legal proceedings involving its CEO, Ms. Polisile Chimhini. In an official statement, the ZIMURA board asserted that no misrepresentation, forgery, or fraud occurred, reaffirming that the organization remains operational and committed to transparency. ZIMURA was brought before the courts over alleged misrepresentation of facts related to the submission of the CR6 form —an official document listing registered company directors with the Registrar of Companies. The controversy arose when Ms. Chimhini signed, paid for, and submitted this form as part of legal evidence in a High Court case linked to Philip Chipfumbu’s membership dispute. In response to public speculation, ZIMURA issued a statement urging the public to disregard what it called "malicious statements" suggesting misappropriation of funds or that Ms. Chimhini had been remanded in custody. The board described these claims as unfounded lies aimed at tarnishing the reputations of both ZIMURA and its CEO. The statement clarified that the presiding magistrate had acquitted Ms. Chimhini of forgery, citing insufficient evidence. However, she was found guilty on an alternative charge of misrepresentation of facts and fined US$300 (or ZWL equivalent), payable by July 11, 2025. The board reiterated its belief that the CR6 form was legally filed and that the conviction was unjust. ZIMURA has since filed a notice of appeal, seeking to overturn both the conviction and the associated fine. The organization reassured its members, partners, and the public that the legal matter does not compromise its integrity, transparency, or day-to-day operations. ZIMURA, CR6 form Zimbabwe, Polisile Chimhini case, misrepresentation of facts, Zimbabwe music industry, ZIMURA board response, Zimbabwe High Court

Afro-Sino Dreams poster Afro‑Sino Musical Recital Set for Harare Music lovers in Harare are in for a treat this Saturday as Afro‑Sino Dreams  brings together Chinese and Zimbabwean artists at the Theatre Upstairs, Reps Theatre, under the theme “Experience Afro‑Sino Dreams: A Cross‑Cultural Musical Recital for Heritage, Innovation, and Collaboration” . An Unprecedented Musical Fusion On June 28, 2025 , audiences will encounter the meditative tones of the Chinese Guqin , the haunting resonance of the Zimbabwean Uhadi , and the expressive power of the piano—all on one stage. Performers: Belle Qiu  (China): Master of the Guqin , a 7,000‑year‑old zither. She will showcase ancient pieces dating from 2200 B.C., 100 A.D., and 750 A.D. . Sabelo Nyoni  (Zimbabwe): Veteran pianist, musicologist, choir founder, and Reps Theatre manager, bringing Western classical influences and deep musical insight . Anesu Ndoro  (Zimbabwe): Multi-instrumentalist and instrument builder reviving indigenous instruments like chipendani, xitende, chivandudzo, uhadi, umakhweyana, and autoharp. Cultural Preservation & Collaboration Afro‑Sino Dreams supports UNESCO’s mission and Zimbabwe’s National Creative Industries and Music Strategies by showcasing rare instruments publicly to promote heritage preservation , innovation , and cross-cultural dialogue . It’s described as a cultural dialogue that fosters mutual understanding, innovation, and respect through ancient Chinese, Western, and African musical traditions . 🎭 Event Details Date:  June 28, 2025 Venue:  Theatre Upstairs, Reps Theatre, Harare Shows:  Matinée at 2:30 pm , Evening at 6:30 pm   Tickets:  US $10. Book via TheSpotlight.co.zw  or WhatsApp/Call 0772 470 005

lenacapavir Stakeholders welcome new HIV prevention drug development The recent FDA approval of lenacapavir  (branded as Yeztugo ) has been hailed by experts and advocates as a groundbreaking achievement in HIV prevention —potentially a true gamechanger. Dr. Nyaradzo Mgodi, Senior Researcher at the University of Zimbabwe Clinical Trials Research Centre, praised the combined efforts of researchers, trial communities, and advocates that led to Yeztugo’s breakthrough. She emphasized its monumental impact, noting that clinical trials demonstrated 99.9% efficacy  in preventing HIV transmission  adelaidenow.com.au + 15wired.com + 15time.com + 15time.com . How Yeztugo works Yeztugo targets HIV at the capsid stage, blocking viral replication. After two initial oral doses and subcutaneous injections at six-month intervals, it provides long-lasting protection and dramatically improves adherence—key to reducing stigma and simplifying prevention regimens  drugs.com + 4time.com + 4washingtonpost.com +4 . Dr. Mgodi on adherence and equity “Lenacapavir helps in the issues of adherence… one only needs to take it twice yearly. It also reduces stigma…” she explained, highlighting the importance of affordable access, particularly for vulnerable younger women. Voices from advocacy: affordability matters Mr. Stanley Takaona, President of ZHAAUCT, echoed support for Yeztugo’s ease-of-use and expressed concern over ARV shortages. He urged stakeholders to guarantee affordability and availability when the drug becomes locally accessible. Myth-busting: it’s not a cure or vaccine Scientists are cautioning against misleading social media claims. Yeztugo is not  a cure or vaccine—but an effective prevention tool. Similar to oral PrEP, it must be part of a comprehensive HIV prevention strategy . Existing prevention tools Current options still include: Oral PrEP (daily pills) Injectable cabotegravir every two months Dapivirine vaginal ring Condoms (male & female) Yeztugo enriches these options, offering individuals—especially women—with a new long-acting alternative