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The late former Zambian President Edgar Lungu Reporter The Zambian government has filed an urgent court case in South Africa in a bid to stop the burial of former President Edgar Lungu, intensifying the public feud between the state and Lungu's family over funeral arrangements. Zambia’s Attorney General, Mulilo Kabesha, has filed a public interest lawsuit aimed at halting the burial, which is scheduled to take place in Johannesburg on Wednesday. The legal action, according to state broadcaster ZNBC, challenges the family's decision to lay Lungu to rest outside his homeland. Lungu, who died on June 5 at Mediclinic Medforum Hospital in Pretoria, was 68. His death sparked a two-week standoff over funeral arrangements after his family opted for a private burial in South Africa, rejecting the Zambian government’s insistence on a state funeral presided over by President Hakainde Hichilema. In court papers, Attorney General Kabesha is suing several members of Lungu’s family, including former First Lady Esther Lungu, four of Lungu’s children, family lawyer Makebi Zulu, and the funeral home in South Africa that currently holds the late president’s remains. The government argues that a former head of state is a national figure whose burial must reflect their status and contributions to the country. Kabesha emphasized that public interest outweighs personal preference, citing the precedent of Zambia’s founding president Kenneth Kaunda, whose family wishes were overruled in 2021 when the government buried him at Embassy Memorial Park despite his expressed desire to be laid beside his wife. According to reports, Lungu’s will explicitly stated that President Hichilema should not attend his funeral, adding fuel to the long-standing tensions between the two leaders. The late president’s family reportedly insists the burial will go ahead as planned, stating they have not yet been served with court papers. The dispute initially seemed resolved after the family agreed to a state funeral. However, relations soured over the specifics of the ceremony, prompting the family to take the controversial decision to bury Lungu abroad. President Hichilema has argued that Lungu, as a former president, “belongs to the nation of Zambia” and should receive a formal send-off at home, including military honours and national recognition. The ongoing legal and political wrangle highlights the deep-rooted animosity between Lungu and Hichilema, a rivalry that persisted in life and now continues in death. As the South African court prepares to deliberate the case, Zambia watches closely to see whether national protocol or family autonomy will prevail in this unprecedented diplomatic and constitutional saga.

Favour Ofili at the Paris 2024 Olympics (Image Source: X) Reporter Nigerian sprint sensation Favour Ofili  is seeking a change in national allegiance amid reports of repeated neglect and administrative blunders by Nigerian sports authorities. The 22-year-old track star has officially notified the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU)  of her intention to represent Turkey , citing persistent failures by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN)  and the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC)  as the tipping point. Ofili’s frustration reportedly reached its peak during the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris . Despite having met the qualifying standard for the women’s 100m event, she was shockingly left out due to what officials described as an administrative oversight  — a repeat of the blunder that also cost her a spot at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics . In Tokyo, Nigerian officials failed to confirm the number of doping control tests  she had undergone, rendering her ineligible. In Paris, she missed the 100m again due to not being officially entered into the event, despite qualifying. She went on to finish sixth in the 200m final. Sources close to the athlete say Ofili’s decision has been years in the making , driven by a consistent lack of institutional support and systemic mismanagement that has jeopardized her professional prospects. Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s brightest sprinting prospects, Ofili boasts personal bests  of 10.93 seconds  in the 100m and 21.96 seconds  in the 200m. Her potential switch to Turkey could deal a devastating blow to Nigeria’s sprinting future  and stands as a damning indictment  of the nation's athletics administration. President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria , Tonobok Okowa , told reporters that the federation had not yet received formal notification from either Ofili or World Athletics  regarding her intention to switch allegiance. However, he acknowledged that if the reports are true, it would be “ sad, disheartening, and painful. ” Ofili’s move not only signals the loss of a world-class athlete for Nigeria but also adds to growing concerns about institutional failures in Nigerian sports , which have led several athletes in recent years to seek opportunities elsewhere. If approved, Ofili will become one of several high-profile African athletes representing other nations, reflecting a troubling trend of talent flight  driven by mismanagement and underinvestment in homegrown talent. (Favour Ofili to represent Turkey)

Nigeria President Bola Tinubu visit victims of di Benue killings for Hospital (Image Source: PRESIDENCY) Reporter President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his directive to security chiefs to swiftly end the ongoing killings in Benue State, following the latest massacre of more than 100 people in Yelwata, located in the Guma Local Government Area. The president’s directive was disclosed in a statement signed by Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, and came just hours after Pope Leo XIV prayed for the victims of what he described as a “terrible massacre” in Benue. Mr. Onanuga confirmed that intelligence chiefs and senior officials from the police and military have arrived in the state to take charge of security operations and help restore order, following the president’s orders. The victims were killed by armed men suspected to be Fulani militias, triggering unrest in the region. In response, local youths blocked the Lafia-Makurdi highway, protesting what they described as the government’s failure to protect lives. President Tinubu also charged Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia to convene reconciliation meetings and dialogue sessions among the warring factions in order to halt the bloodshed and foster peaceful coexistence between farmers, herders, and local communities. The violence in Benue and other North-central states is largely driven by resource-based conflict, particularly over land and water, between farmers and herders. This ongoing crisis has claimed thousands of lives over the years. Describing the violence as “inhuman and anti-progress,” Mr. Tinubu called on political and community leaders to avoid making inflammatory statements that could further aggravate the crisis. He also instructed that individuals attempting to provoke reprisals be identified and restrained. In a poignant moment of international solidarity, Pope Leo XIV prayed for the victims during his Sunday Angelus prayer, highlighting that many of those killed had been sheltered by a local Catholic mission. Speaking via Vatican News, the Pope appealed for security, justice, and peace in Nigeria, expressing particular concern for the “rural Christian communities of Benue State” who he said have been relentless victims of violence. Meanwhile, opposition leaders and civil society critics have accused the Tinubu administration of a delayed response, noting that the presidential statement was issued more than 24 hours after the attack, and the president’s visit to the state came five days later. The tragedy in Benue has once again reignited calls for a comprehensive national strategy to address rural insecurity, intercommunal conflict, and long-standing grievances tied to resource competition.

A thriving Zimbabwean Farm (REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko) Reporter Zimbabwe has emerged as an inspiration of agricultural success on the African continent, showcasing impressive achievements. This follows the Government’s deliberate efforts to prioritise and support agriculture. The Government has initiated several policies that support agriculture, notably the Agriculture Recovery and Growth Plan, introduced in 2020. This strategic plan has played a crucial role in reversing negative trends in the sector. It has not only boosted production but also transformed the livelihoods of many farmers across the nation. Since the advent of the Second Republic, Zimbabwe has consistently surpassed its agricultural targets. Most notably, the country exceeded the initial US$8 billion agricultural target well ahead of schedule. This remarkable feat prompted a revision of the target to an ambitious US$13.75 billion for the current year, reflecting robust agricultural growth. One of the standout successes has been in wheat production, where Zimbabwe has achieved record outputs, positioning itself among the top eight wheat-producing countries in Africa. Importantly, Zimbabwe is one of only two countries on the continent, alongside Ethiopia, that are self-sufficient in wheat production. This year, the nation is poised to produce over 600,000 tonnes of wheat, far exceeding the annual requirement of 360,000 tonnes for staple products like bread and pasta. Moreover, Zimbabwe has solidified its status as Africa’s largest tobacco producer and ranks sixth globally, trailing only China, India, Brazil, the United States, and Indonesia. In the 2023 tobacco growing season, the country earned US$1.23 billion from tobacco exports, producing a record 297 million kilograms of the crop, up from 234 million kilograms the previous season. The 2025 target has been raised to 320 million kilograms, surpassing the annual goal of 300 million kilograms and showcasing the sector’s ongoing potential. Government has also focused on supporting local farmers through various initiatives, ensuring increased private sector participation. This achievement underscores Zimbabwe’s pivotal role in the global tobacco market, especially as Brazil, China, and India account for over 55 percent of global production without expanding their hectarage. In addition to tobacco, Zimbabwe has made significant strides in blueberry exports, which soared by 85 percent in 2023, surpassing 5,000 tonnes. This growth has secured Zimbabwe’s place among the top 15 global exporters of blueberries, highlighting the sector’s revival and its wide-ranging economic impacts. These continuous improvements point to a bright future for Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector. The Government’s commitment to food security is clear as it aims to become a net exporter of agricultural goods, including wheat, tobacco, and a variety of horticultural products. As part of its long-term vision, Government plans to construct 15 high-impact dams by 2027, aligned with its goal to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy by 2030. This initiative is pivotal for accelerating rural industrialisation and enhancing productivity, aiming to irrigate at least 350,000 hectares to meet growing crop demands. A substantial $1.1 billion has been allocated for dam construction, which is progressing well. The project also includes the installation of 35,000 boreholes in villages, significantly improving access to clean water for both agriculture and rural communities. In livestock production, Government has set an ambitious target of US$3.4 billion for 2025, aiming to improve productivity and combat cattle mortality, particularly following outbreaks of tick-borne diseases that have affected nearly 500,000 cattle since 2016. The Livestock Recovery and Growth Plan (2021–2026) guides these ongoing efforts to bolster the sector. Tobacco Farmers Union Trust Vice President, Mr Edward Dune, said Zimbabwe’s agriculture sector is entering a new dawn. “Our farmers have now acquired the knowledge and skills required to use the land productively and restore Zimbabwe to its former glory in the SADC region.” He highlighted the Government’s support for farmers, especially those resettled under the Land Reform Programme, ensuring every ward has two extension officers to provide essential agricultural training. Zimbabwe Commercial Farmers Union (ZCFU) president, Dr Shadreck Makombe, said last season’s successes demonstrate a promising future. “Last season was a great season because everything was in order. Farmers planted on time after getting inputs on time again. Prices of inputs were lowered to an extent that the majority could afford to buy. The season was good, and we hope to have better seasons in the future.” Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development permanent secretary, Professor Obert Jiri, affirmed the Government’s commitment to agriculture. “Since we started to operationalize the Agriculture Recovery Growth Plan, we managed to score 2.7 million tonnes of maize during the 2020–2021 season. We also recorded 375,000 tonnes of wheat in 2022 and scaled up to over 500,000 tonnes last season, so we are flour self-sufficient.” Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector is experiencing a transformative period marked by strategic initiatives and significant achievements driven by the Second Republic. With a focus on productivity, food security, and rural development, the country is well on its way to realising its Vision 2030 goals, restoring its status as a leading agricultural powerhouse in the region and beyond.

Que Montana Reporter UK-based Zimbabwean Afropop powerhouse, Que Montana , has officially returned to the music scene — and he’s not just back, he’s on fire. With his sixth studio album, Afrivo Rhythms , the artist once again affirms his place as one of Zimbabwe’s most treasured musical exports. After years of musical silence, many expected a quiet return or perhaps a nostalgic reprise of the past. But instead, Que Montana has dropped what is already being dubbed “a modern-day masterpiece.” Speaking from his home in Stoke-on-Trent, United Kingdom, the ever-charismatic artist shared that Afrivo Rhythms  is not just another album — it’s a soulful offering of his personal journey, memories, and musical evolution. “This is more than just music to me. It’s a celebration of my roots, my growth, and my passion. Every beat, every lyric carries a piece of my heart,” he said. The album features 11 groundbreaking tracks, including Go Big or Go Home , Kumauro , Sahwira , and Sarura Wako  — songs that are already sending ripples through the music industry and across digital platforms. Each track blends rich African rhythms with modern sonic elements, offering a unique sound that’s both nostalgic and future-forward. A True Musical Visionary For those unfamiliar with Que Montana’s legacy, he’s no newcomer to the scene. His early days saw him share stages and studios with legends such as Tanga wekwa Sando, Andy Brown, Afrika Revenge, Dudu Manhenga, Sandra Ndebele, and many more. Internationally, he has collaborated with celebrated artists like Chris Aka, Bruno Migliari, and the Mwale Sisters, extending his influence across borders and genres. While many artists lose creative momentum after relocating abroad, Que Montana has defied the odds. His move to the UK has clearly reinvigorated his artistry, pushing him to create what critics are calling his best work yet. “Afrivo Rhythms feels like the reincarnation of Andy Brown, Don Gumbo, and Tanga Wekwa Sando — all fused with a modern Afropop twist,”  said one music critic. “It’s like a sonic time machine with one foot in the past and the other in the future.” In an unexpected but powerful twist, Que Montana has integrated Artificial Intelligence in the mixing and mastering process of the album. This has elevated the quality of production to global standards, offering crisp soundscapes while still retaining the raw authenticity of traditional African music. “I wanted to give people something they’ve never heard before — music that’s clean, modern, yet unmistakably African,” said Que. With plans already underway for a European tour, Que Montana is gearing up to perform at various international festivals, taking Zimbabwean music to the world stage. His trajectory and musical maturity have many comparing him to the legendary Oliver Mtukudzi — not in imitation, but in impact and influence. Whether you're a long-time fan or a new listener, one thing is certain: Que Montana is back — and he’s redefining what it means to be an African artist in the 21st century.

Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education Reporter Government is poised to extend its school feeding programme to secondary schools, a significant move aimed at bolstering educational outcomes and addressing food insecurity among students. This initiative will be supported by development partners, who are stepping in to ensure that schools, particularly those in remote rural areas, have the resources they need to implement effective feeding solutions. In an interview, Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education spokesperson Mr Taungana Ndoro emphasised the importance of home-grown solutions, noting that the community's active participation following a bumper harvest has been instrumental in this effort. “The programme is going on well. We are encouraging schools to implement home-grown feeding programmes to reduce dependency on the Government,” he stated, highlighting the collaborative approach that combines both government support and community involvement. The impact of the school feeding programme has been profound. It has not only boosted student attendance but also significantly improved nutrition among pupils. This initiative aligns with the Government's broader strategy to strengthen the education sector and combat food insecurity, particularly in light of recent challenges such as droughts exacerbated by climate change. Mr Ndoro pointed out that assessments conducted by the ministry have revealed a clear link between the provision of meals and improved school attendance, especially in rural areas. “Learners who receive regular meals are more focused, engaged, and perform better academically,” he explained. Zimbabwe National Union of School Heads secretary general Mr Munyaradzi Majoni explained the critical importance of the school feeding scheme. “The school feeding programme is going a long way in alleviating hunger in schools,” he remarked, urging the Government to expand this initiative to all public schools. He highlighted that even in higher-performing, affluent schools, there are vulnerable children who require support. “We appeal to the Government that the programme should be introduced to all public schools. In Group A schools, we can see that there are other children who are vulnerable. They need food as well,” he added, underscoring the need for inclusivity in educational support. The feeding programme has been particularly crucial for learners affected by the El Niño-induced drought, which has heightened food insecurity across many regions. By providing at least one hot meal daily, the programme not only alleviates hunger but also enhances educational outcomes. Under this initiative, Government supplies grain, while parents are encouraged to mobilise funds to purchase relish, ensuring that children receive nutritious meals that contribute to their overall well-being. Mr Ndoro noted that schools participating in the programme have recorded increased attendance rates, as students prioritise attending school to receive meals. This initiative has fostered stronger community involvement, with parents playing an active role in their children’s nutrition and education. “The Ministry remains committed to expanding this initiative to ensure that no child goes hungry while pursuing their education. We are continuously monitoring and evaluating the programme to make necessary adjustments and enhance its effectiveness,” he asserted. Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development permanent secretary Professor Obert Jiri expressed the ministry’s readiness to provide grain to schools, emphasising that village business units can also play a critical role in sustaining families. “As a ministry, we are ready to provide grain once requested by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education. Business units, if managed well, can also play a critical part in supporting children. They can grow vegetables for relish and even grain they can acquire from those business units,” he stated. Government's commitment to expanding the school feeding programme reflects a comprehensive approach to addressing food insecurity and enhancing educational outcomes across Zimbabwe.

World leaders at the Geneva meeting amidst the Israel-Iran conflict - (Creator: HANDOUT Credit: AFP) Reporter World leaders meeting in Geneva, Switzerland have urged all parties involved in the ongoing armed conflict between Israel and Iran calling for two weeks of ceasefire and diplomatic talks. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with his counterparts from France, Germany, and the United Kingdom in Geneva on Friday to discuss the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, which marked its eighth day with both sides launching another barrage of missiles. European leaders are hoping that a diplomatic solution can be achieved in the next two weeks—a deadline that U.S. President Donald Trump imposed on Thursday to decide whether to order direct U.S. military involvement against Iran. But Friday’s talks dissolved with no major breakthroughs, and both Iran and Israel remain adamant that negotiations cannot occur while strikes carry on. “We do not want to negotiate with anyone while the Zionist regime’s aggression continues,” Araghchi said in an address broadcast on Iranian state TV on Friday. “It is the Americans who want talks.” Danny Danon, Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations, cast similar doubts on the effectiveness of negotiations. “We have seen diplomatic talks for the last few decades, and look at the results,” Danon said, adding that Israel would only consider a genuine effort to dismantle Iran’s nuclear capabilities. Such a proposal may be in the works. On Friday, French President Emmanuel Macron said Europe was preparing a deal to end the conflict that would include Iran reducing its uranium enrichment to zero, restricting its ballistic missile program, and ending its funding of proxy groups, such as Hamas and Hezbollah. This deal will likely be rejected, though, as Tehran maintains that it has the right to enrich uranium on its soil for civilian purposes. Israel first launched strikes targeting Iranian nuclear and military infrastructure on the 13th of June, hitting uranium enrichment facilities, top military leaders, and other alleged command centers used by the Iranian government. Iran has retaliated with hundreds of drones and missile strikes, and it pulled out of nuclear talks with the United States originally scheduled for last Sunday. This week, Trump called for unconditional surrender from Iran, which went ignored; took partial credit for control of Iranian airspace; and suggested that the United States might consider assassinating Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Trump will do “what’s best for America,” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday. “I can tell you that they’re already helping a lot.” It is unclear whether Trump will order U.S. armed forces to assist Israel directly by targeting Iran’s nuclear sites. Such an attack would likely include U.S. B-2 bombers dropping bunker buster bombs on Fordow, a major underground uranium enrichment facility in Iran. But experts warn that U.S. involvement to that scale could exacerbate the conflict and produce dangerous results. Armed attack on nuclear facilities “could result in radioactive releases with grave consequences within and beyond the boundaries of the state which has been attacked,” Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, warned the United Nations Security Council on Friday. (Online Sources)

UNFPA Representative Miranda Tabifor (left) shakes hands with WFP Representative Barbara Clemens (image source ) Reporter In a significant move to enhance food security, health and nutrition support in Zimbabwe, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the World Food Programme (WFP) have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in Harare. This partnership aims to address the intertwined needs of the population by integrating sexual and reproductive health services with food assistance initiatives. Speaking during the signing ceremony, UNFPA Representative Ms. Miranda Tabifor said the agency is committed to ensuring that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person’s potential is fulfilled. “We recognise that these goals cannot be achieved in isolation. This partnership with WFP, as the UN’s frontline agency in the fight against hunger and malnutrition, allows us to leverage our respective strengths and expertise for greater impact,” she said. She said the collaboration will specifically target women and young people, utilising WFP's existing food distribution platforms to reach a broader audience with essential services and information. “By targeting the same beneficiaries, we can reach more people with the services they need.” This partnership builds on a history of collaboration between the two organisations, including a 2016 agreement for providing food to pregnant women in Maternity Waiting Homes and logistical support during crises such as Cyclone Idai and the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently, integrated services were provided during food distribution in Buhera, where UNFPA’s implementing partner, the Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council, offered outreach family planning services. Through this agreement, UNFPA will enhance maternal, newborn, family planning, HIV, and gender-based violence services in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Child Care. They will also train food distribution stakeholders in Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) and gender-based violence risk mitigation. WFP Zimbabwe Representative Barbara Clemens highlighted the importance of this collaboration. “WFP and UNFPA are coming together to deliver integrated responses, linking food security with sexual and reproductive health, nutrition with protection, and dignity with empowerment.” She said this partnership means that when women and adolescent girls visit food distribution sites, they can also access vital information on family planning and available services.Both organisations reaffirmed their commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 2 on Zero Hunger, Goal 3 on Good Health and Wellbeing, and Goal 5 on Gender Equality. By joining forces, UNFPA and WFP are dedicated to reducing duplication, improving efficiency, and harnessing their strengths to support the Government of Zimbabwe in addressing these critical issues.

AfDB logo Reporter The Zimbabwean government has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing national development through closer collaboration with the African Development Bank (AfDB), following a successful 2025 Country Portfolio Performance Review (CPPR) workshop held in Harare. Acting Chief Director in the Ministry of Finance Mrs. Margireta Makuwaza emphasised the alignment of the AfDB’s Country Brief (2024–2026) with Zimbabwe's National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1, 2021–2025). “Through prioritising governance, accountability and private sector growth, we are laying a solid foundation for the next phase of our development journey under NDS 2, which aims to transform the economy to achieve upper-middle-income status by 2030,’’ she said. The CPPR is viewed not merely as an evaluation exercise but as a high-level forum for co-creating solutions, sharing best practices, and building a collective vision for impactful development.AfDB representatives outlined their strategic priorities, highlighting a financing portfolio of US$137 million aimed at fostering inclusive and resilient growth. Belinda Chesire, AfDB Country Programme Officer, reiterated the importance of the CPPR workshop. “This CPPR workshop is more than just an evaluation; it is a platform to co-create solutions, share knowledge, and build a collective vision for impact,” she said. Over US$40 million has been directed towards credit lines and trade finance facilities, unlocking opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These initiatives are designed to catalyse job creation and diversify the economy. Economist Gladys Shumbambiri-Mutsopotsi noted the AfDB’s increased engagement with the private sector is a game-changer for Zimbabwe’s SMEs. Through improving access to affordable finance and technical assistance, these facilities are laying the groundwork for sustainable growth. She also emphasised the significance of renewable energy projects, particularly solar feasibility studies at Kariba. “This will not only boost energy security but also attract fresh investments into our green economy.” The workshop culminated in the drafting of a new Country Portfolio Improvement Plan (CPIP), which will serve as a roadmap for project implementation and maximizing development outcomes. This plan will be submitted for approval to the AfDB’s Board Committee on Development Effectiveness and the Government of Zimbabwe. The successful convening of the CPPR workshop has reinforced the commitment between Zimbabwe and the AfDB to drive inclusive and sustainable growth.

The ZimTrade Logo Reporter ZimTrade , Zimbabwe's national trade development body, is leading an outward trade-seller mission to Beira, Mozambique, from July 1 to 3, featuring 15 export-ready Zimbabwean companies. This initiative follows a market scan conducted in March 2025, which identified significant export opportunities for local businesses. ZimTrade chief executive officer, Mr. Allan Majuru, said the study established immediate trade potential and long-term partnership opportunities that local exporters can capitalise on. "Mozambican businesses demonstrated particular interest in our construction materials, agricultural inputs and processed food products, with many importers actively seeking reliable suppliers," he said. The demand in Mozambique's booming construction sector is notable, with Zimbabwean exports including US$5.5 million in steel and US$1.4 million in timber in 2023. Additionally, Mozambique currently absorbs 19 percent of Zimbabwe’s cereal exports, along with horticultural products like tea, coffee, avocados, macadamias, and pineapples. ZimTrade emphasised that the outward mission offers businesses a platform to engage with Mozambican counterparts, explore trade opportunities, and secure export orders for products already in demand. The Zimbabwean delegation comprises companies from key sectors, including processed foods, horticulture, building and construction materials, agricultural inputs, PPEs (personal protective equipment), leather products, and services. The three-day mission will begin with a Trade and Investment Conference, bringing together business executives, trade support institutions, Mozambican government officials, and importers. This mission aligns with a May 2023 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ZimTrade, ZIDA, and Mozambique’s APIEX, which promotes joint participation in trade events and institutional exchanges. According to ZimTrade, the agreement encourages knowledge sharing, business matchmaking, and market expansion, which are the key objectives of the Beira mission. ZimTrade has been actively organizing similar trade missions, including a 2024 outward mission to Tete Province, which helped local firms establish distribution partnerships and even set up operations in Mozambique. This has strengthened trade ties between the two nations, supported by their geographic proximity. Mozambique is Zimbabwe’s fourth-largest export market, with data from Trades Map showing a 12 percent increase in exports from US$354 million in 2019 to US$398 million in 2023. Local companies have been benefiting from a bilateral agreement signed in 2005, allowing duty-free trade with 25 percent local value addition. Both countries are also part of the SADC Protocol, which aims to reduce trade barriers. Outward seller missions organised by ZimTrade align with the Government’s National Export Strategy of growing exports by 10 percent annually. Since its inception, President Mnangagwa’s administration has focused on promoting investment through engagement, re-engagement, and policy thrusts such as "Zimbabwe is Open for Business." The Government has demonstrated its commitment to economic growth, development, and investment promotion through a range of business-friendly economic policy reforms and the issuance of various incentives such as tax breaks.

Former President of Zambia Reporter This was a growing story, Click here for the Latest Update. The family of the late former Zambian President Edgar Lungu has stopped the transportation of his remains from South Africa, citing a breach of funeral arrangements by the government. According to family spokesperson Makebi Zulu, the return was suspended after the Zambian government allegedly issued a funeral programme without consulting the family. Family members have accused the government of reneging on crucial funeral agreements and say they have lost confidence in the state’s willingness to uphold its commitments. Lungu's remains were expected to arrive in Zambia on Wednesday, June 18, via a private charter, but according to family spokesperson Makebi Zulu, the return was suspended after the Zambian government allegedly issued a funeral programme without consulting the family. The development comes despite the two parties reaching an agreement earlier this week over key burial arrangements, including the choice of mourning venue, who would repatriate his body from South Africa and who should preside over the funeral. Despite accusing the government of failing to honour its part of the funeral agreement, Zulu said the family remains optimistic that the situation will be resolved and that the deceased will be repatriated and given a proper burial in Zambia. His body was expected to lie in state at his residence, then be taken to a conference centre in the capital, Lusaka, for three days starting Thursday, allowing the public to pay their respects. A state funeral had also been planned for Sunday, June 22, with official mourning ending on June 23. When the family and Zambian government initially came to a consensus, they announced that Lungu would be laid to rest next Monday, although it remained unclear whether his final resting place would be the official presidential burial site or his private residence.The former president died earlier this month while undergoing specialised medical care in South Africa. Online news sources

Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu Reporter The family of the late Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu has confirmed that the former head of state will be laid to rest in Johannesburg, South Africa, following a private family ceremony. In a statement issued today, Lungu family spokesperson Hon. Makebi Zulu said this is in accordance with the family’s wishes. Hon. Zulu expressed deep appreciation for the support received from across Africa and commended the South African government for its non-interference and respect for their decision. In the statement, Hon. Zulu said that the family seeks peace and unity amongst fellow Zambians during this time and thanked all friends, supporters, and members of the public for their understanding, compassion, and willingness to mourn the former Head of State. He further added that more funeral details will be communicated in due course. This development follows a statement by Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema where he acknowledged the dispute over funeral arrangements with the Lungu family and announced the official end of the mourning period on the 19th of June. Previously, the government had indicated that Lungu would be given a state funeral on Monday the 23rd of June, which the Lungu family had disputed, citing that the government had made the announcement without fully consulting them. Mr. Hichilema, however, said the government had made numerous efforts to engage the family and representatives of the late president in order to reach consensus in this matter.