MANYAME  — In a massive boost for Zimbabwe’s public sector workforce, the government has launched a landmark housing project that will deliver 20,000 residential stands at Tantallon Estate in Manyame. The initiative, part of the Presidential Housing Programme, is a strategic partnership between the Ministry of Local Government and property tycoon Philip Chiyangwa through his firm, Pinnacle Holdings. The project aims to provide secure, affordable land to civil servants, with a specific focus on security services, legislators, and parliamentary staff. Speaking during a high-level site visit, Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe emphasized that the project is designed to break the cycle of lifelong renting. "The goal is to transition our workers from the burden of monthly rent to the security of homeownership," Minister Garwe said. To ensure affordability, the stands will be supported by 15-year mortgage facilities, allowing civil servants to build equity while managing their monthly expenses. This follows the recent salary reviews implemented on April 1, which have provided a slightly stronger base for civil servants to enter the property market. Tantallon Estate is not being built as a mere dormitory suburb. Instead, authorities are marketing the development as a future "Smart City" that integrates modern living with essential services. The Master Plan includes: Infrastructure: Fully serviced stands with integrated water, sewer, and electricity grids. Amenities: A dedicated shopping mall, schools, health facilities, and a police station. Leisure: Plans for a professional-grade football stadium to serve the Manyame community. Sustainability: Modern drainage systems and "smart" urban planning aimed at reducing environmental impact. The development is a cornerstone of the Nyore Nyore Housing Scheme, a nationwide push to create hundreds of thousands of new homes. According to government roadmaps, Tantallon will serve as a blueprint for other upcoming estates, including Edinburgh (Harare), Chegutu City, Somerby, and Kilworth. Infrastructure work is already visibly progressing on-site, with primary road networks being carved out. Minister Garwe reassured the public that, unlike "land baron" settlements of the past, no occupation will be permitted until water and sewer systems meet national standards. Zimbabwe currently faces a housing backlog estimated at over 1.5 million units. By leveraging private-sector expertise and land banks like those held by Pinnacle Holdings, the administration hopes to achieve its Vision 2030 goal of an upper-middle-income economy where decent housing is a right, not a luxury. As the bulldozers move in at Tantallon, thousands of civil servants finally have a tangible timeline for when they can stop paying landlords and start building their own futures. Tantallon Estate civil servant housing

BULAWAYO – A Bulawayo magistrate, Evia Matura, has been sentenced to 24 months in prison for criminal abuse of office after unlawfully releasing a fraud suspect without a valid bail application. Matura (47) was convicted under Section 174 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act following irregular actions taken while presiding at Tredgold Magistrates’ Court. The court handed down a two-year sentence, with six months suspended on condition of good behaviour, leaving an effective 18-month custodial term. The ruling was delivered by Regional Magistrate Mark Dzira. According to court proceedings, the offence occurred on July 2, 2025, when Matura ordered the release of former legislator Obert Manduna, who was facing fraud charges. This was despite the fact that she had denied him bail just days earlier on June 25. Prosecutors told the court that no fresh bail application had been submitted and that there were no changed circumstances, High Court directives, or proof of payment to justify reconsideration. “The accused acted outside established judicial procedures, resulting in the irregular release of the suspect,” the State submitted. Manduna is accused of defrauding a complainant of nearly US$6,000 in a botched property deal involving a residential stand in Cowdray Park, Bulawayo. The State alleges that between October 2020 and February 2022, he used a forged power of attorney to sell Stand Number 7278 without the owner’s consent. Investigators say the property had already been repossessed by the Bulawayo City Council at the time of the transaction. The complainant reportedly paid US$5,900, which has not been recovered. Legal experts say the case raises serious concerns about adherence to judicial procedure and accountability within the justice system. “Bail decisions must strictly follow due process. Any deviation undermines public confidence in the courts,” said Bulawayo-based legal analyst Nqobani Sithole. Prosecutors also revealed that Manduna had previously evaded investigations by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) and was considered a flight risk at the time of his release. This, they argued, made the magistrate’s decision even more irregular and potentially prejudicial to the administration of justice. The conviction of a sitting magistrate is rare and signals increased scrutiny on public officials accused of abusing their offices. Analysts say the ruling could strengthen efforts to enforce accountability within Zimbabwe’s judicial system. “This sends a clear message that no one is above the law, regardless of position,” said governance expert Tafadzwa Chikoto. Evia Matura sentence

CCC MP Susan Matsunga HARARE – Budiriro North legislator Susan Matsunga has publicly praised President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his adviser Paul Tungwarara following the commissioning of boreholes in Mufakose and Budiriro, in a development that underscores shifting political dynamics in Harare’s opposition strongholds. The boreholes were officially handed over on Tuesday under the Presidential Borehole Drilling Scheme, a government-backed initiative aimed at improving access to clean water in urban and peri-urban communities. The event, held in Budiriro North Constituency, drew senior figures from the ruling ZANU PF, including businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei and party official Godwills Masimirembwa. Budiriro North has traditionally been considered an opposition stronghold, making the development politically significant ahead of ongoing debates over service delivery in urban areas. Speaking at the handover ceremony, Matsunga expressed gratitude to the President and his representative for delivering the project. “I want to thank His Excellency, the President of Zimbabwe, Baba Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, in absentia. Muripo musipo nhume yenyu yasvika… Baba Tungwarara and the development they have brought into Budiriro North,” she said. “Baba hamuna kutarisa kuti muri baba vemhuri iyi muri baba vemhuri yese… We are happy, we are proud of you. We have never seen this miracle,” she added. The Presidential Borehole Drilling Scheme has increasingly become a focal point in Zimbabwe’s political contestation, particularly in urban constituencies where access to clean water remains a persistent challenge. Analysts say such projects are being used by the ruling party to demonstrate service delivery capacity while highlighting shortcomings by opposition-led local authorities. Political analyst Dr. Vivid Gwede said the optics of opposition MPs endorsing government initiatives could signal shifting alliances or pragmatic cooperation. “In areas where residents face acute service delivery challenges, politicians may prioritise development outcomes over partisan positioning,” he said. Matsunga retained her parliamentary seat following internal changes within the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), led by Sengezo Tshabangu, which have reshaped the opposition’s parliamentary structure since 2023. Her remarks come at a time of heightened political debate, with both ruling and opposition parties seeking to consolidate influence in urban constituencies. Residents in Budiriro and surrounding suburbs have long faced water shortages, often relying on boreholes as a primary source of clean water. Community members at the event welcomed the development. “Water is a daily struggle here. If more boreholes are drilled, it will make a real difference in our lives,” said one resident. While the project has been welcomed by locals, it also raises broader questions about governance, service delivery responsibilities, and the role of the central government in urban infrastructure. As Zimbabwe continues to grapple with water shortages and infrastructure challenges, initiatives like the borehole scheme are likely to remain central to both development efforts and political narratives. CCC Budiriro boreholes Zimbabwe

HARARE – Zimbabweans have been urged to drastically reduce travel and “park their cars” as fuel prices remain among the highest in the region, with petrol pegged at US$2.23 per litre and diesel at US$2.11. Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube issued the warning while speaking at the World Bank and IMF Spring Meetings 2026 on April 15, saying motorists must “rationalise” fuel usage in the face of persistent high prices. Ncube acknowledged the strain on households and businesses but stressed that immediate behavioural changes were necessary. “Zimbabweans have been told to park their cars and cut back on travel as fuel prices remain high,” he said, urging citizens to rethink daily commuting patterns. The remarks come despite government efforts to cushion consumers, including the removal of taxes on diesel. Zimbabwe’s fuel prices continue to outpace those in neighbouring countries, widening the cost gap for motorists: Zambia: approx. US$1.42 (petrol), US$1.56 (diesel) Namibia: approx. US$1.20 (petrol) Analysts say the disparity places additional pressure on transport costs, inflation, and the overall cost of living. “High fuel prices have a ripple effect across the economy, from food prices to public transport fares,” said Harare-based economist Prosper Chitambara. Ncube attributed the elevated prices to global geopolitical tensions affecting oil markets, arguing that Zimbabwe is not insulated from international shocks. “We are impacted by global developments beyond our control,” he said, while maintaining that fuel supply remains stable. Authorities say the country currently holds more than three months’ fuel cover. Despite the high cost of fuel, Ncube maintained that Zimbabwe’s economy is still on track to achieve around 5% growth in 2026. He also insisted that inflation would remain stable even if diesel prices were to rise further to US$2.50 per litre. “Government will continue to closely monitor global developments and stands ready to implement further measures where necessary,” he said. Transport operators and commuters say the high fuel prices are already taking a toll. “We are forced to increase fares regularly just to survive. Everything is going up,” said a Harare commuter omnibus driver. For many households, reduced mobility has become a necessity rather than a choice, with some opting for carpooling or public transport to manage costs. Economic commentators argue that while global factors play a role, domestic policies and pricing structures also need review to improve competitiveness. “There is a need to examine local cost drivers to bring Zimbabwe closer to regional averages,” said economic analyst Persistence Gwanyanya. As fuel prices remain elevated, the government faces increasing pressure to balance fiscal stability with relief for struggling citizens. Zimbabwe fuel prices 2026

KADOMA  — A high-stakes selection process is currently underway at the Muduvuri Pan African Hospital in Kadoma, where officials are tasked with narrowing down over 3,000 applications to just 20 names for the inaugural intake of the Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa School of Nursing. The sealed boxes containing thousands of dreams from across Zimbabwe’s ten provinces were opened on Wednesday, 15 April 2026. The selection panel, a multi-agency team comprising Ministry of Health and Child Care officials, Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officers, and senior hospital staff, has been mandated to ensure a transparent process that reflects the national spirit of devolution. While the current quota is limited to two dozen students, the infrastructure ready to receive them on May 4 is built for a much larger scale. Tutor-in-charge Ms. Lusica Shumba confirmed that the school is fully equipped with three modern classrooms, a comprehensive library, and a high-tech demonstration theatre. "Everything needed to ensure the proper discharge of education... is now in place," Ms. Shumba said. "We are whittling down the figures while strictly observing the spirit of devolution to ensure no place and no person is left behind." The school is the brainchild of prominent businessman and philanthropist Jimayi Muduvuri, who named the institution in honor of First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa’s dedication to healthcare. Mr. Muduvuri, who has himself undergone numerous surgeries and health battles, shared that his personal experiences drove him to invest in Zimbabwe’s medical human resources. "This is a project in honor of the First Lady, and everything should be done above board," he told the selection committee. Muduvuri’s footprint in the sector is expanding rapidly, with established health centers now present in every province, including the Robert Gabriel Mugabe Clinic (Zvimba) and the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Clinic (Gwanda). The sheer volume of applications, over 150 candidates for every available seat, has already prompted calls for an immediate increase in capacity. Mr. Muduvuri noted that the "overwhelming response" is a testament to the public's trust in the First Lady’s brand of philanthropy. Expansion Outlook: Current Intake: 20 students. Target Intake: 100 students per class. Infrastructure Strategy: Active construction of additional boarding facilities is underway to accommodate a larger student body. Regulatory Hurdle: Engagements are ongoing with the Nurses Council of Zimbabwe and the Ministry of Health to upgrade the school’s enrollment license. For the 2,980 applicants who will likely face disappointment this week, the expansion cannot come soon enough. However, for the lucky 20, May 4 marks the beginning of a historic journey in one of the country's newest and most prestigious private-public nursing partnerships. Auxillia Mnangagwa School of Nursing intake 2026

BINDURA  — A 24-year-old woman from Kufa Village under Chief Musana has been sentenced to an effective three-year prison term following a gruesome domestic assault that left her ex-husband with severe permanent scarring. The accused appeared before the Bindura Magistrates' Court this week, where she pleaded guilty to charges of physical abuse in contravention of the Domestic Violence Act [Chapter 5:16]. The court heard that on April 4, 2026, the 30-year-old complainant, who currently resides in Harare, visited his former in-laws' homestead to see his child. Believing his ex-wife was away, he spent the afternoon with the child before returning to the main house to prepare for his journey back to the capital. The situation turned violent without warning. While the victim sat chatting with his former mother-in-law outside the kitchen, the accused emerged carrying a pot of boiling cooking oil. "Ndakubata" ( I got you ), the woman reportedly declared before dousing the right side of the victim’s face and hand with the scalding liquid. As the man attempted to flee the homestead in agony, the woman pursued him, launching a second attack that covered his back and left arm in hot oil. Medical affidavits presented to the court confirmed that the victim suffered serious burns and will require extensive reconstructive treatment. In handing down the judgment, the magistrate emphasized that domestic disputes must never escalate into "extreme and calculated violence." Sentence Breakdown: Total Sentence: 5 years' imprisonment. Suspended Portion: 2 years (on condition of good behavior for the next 5 years). Effective Term: 3 years behind bars. The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) has used this conviction to issue a stern warning against the use of "weaponized" household items in domestic spats. "We condemn the escalation of domestic disputes into extreme violence," an NPAZ representative stated. "Such conduct attracts severe custodial penalties, regardless of gender. We urge the public to seek lawful intervention through the courts or traditional leadership like Chief Musana rather than resorting to such barbaric acts." This case marks the third high-profile "hot oil" assault in the Mashonaland Central province this year, sparking calls from local NGOs for increased community-based counseling services in rural Bindura. Bindura woman hot oil attack sentence

HARARE  — The City of Harare has launched a crackdown on residents and business owners who are illegally occupying and damaging public road infrastructure, warning that offenders will face stiff penalties and direct charges to their municipal accounts. In a public notice issued this week, the local authority expressed deep concern over a rising trend of "infrastructure lawlessness." This includes the unauthorized storage of building materials, illegal excavations, and the construction of "backyard" speed humps on public roads. Acting Town Clerk Phakamile Mabhena Moyo clarified that these activities are a direct breach of the Roads Act [Chapter 13:18]. The council has documented numerous cases where stormwater drains have been blocked by dumped rubble, and road servitudes (the land reserved for future road expansion or utilities) have been repurposed for private use. Common violations identified by the City include: Obstruction: Storing sand, bricks, or aggregates on road verges and in drainage systems. Illegal Excavations: Digging across tarred or gravel roads to install water pipes or fiber cables without a municipal permit. Self-Styled Speed Humps: Constructing unapproved bumps, which often lack proper signage and pose a risk to motorists. Unauthorized Engineering: Building private driveways or drainage links without approved city engineering plans. Mabhena Moyo emphasized that these activities do more than just create an eyesore they lead to the rapid deterioration of the city's already fragile road network. Blocked stormwater drains, in particular, are the primary cause of flash flooding and the development of potholes during the rainy season. "These actions compromise public safety and damage taxpayer-funded infrastructure," the Acting Town Clerk warned. In a move to ensure compliance, the City of Harare announced that it will not wait for court dates to settle these fines. Unpaid penalties will be automatically added to the property owners’ rates accounts without further notice. The Harare Residents Trust (HRT) has urged residents to seek formal approval before embarking on any roadside modifications. "While we understand residents want to protect their streets or improve their homes, doing so outside the law risks your property being fined and your road being ruined for everyone," an HRT representative noted. Residents are encouraged to report illegal dumping or unauthorized roadworks to the City of Harare’s Department of Works or their local ward offices. City of Harare Roads Act warning

MUTARE  — Tensions have reached a breaking point at the Premier Estate in Old Mutare following the shooting of an unarmed artisanal miner by security guards at the Chinese-owned Sino Africa Huijin mine. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, 12 April 2026, has sparked fresh allegations of systematic extortion, illegal mining, and the use of excessive force within Zimbabwe’s extractive sector. According to the Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG), the victim was shot from behind while fleeing, suggesting he posed no immediate threat to the guards. The CNRG reports that the shooting was triggered by a dispute over "access fees." Investigative findings suggest a corrupt "pay-to-play" system where security guards allegedly charge artisanal miners bribes of roughly US$10 to extract a few bags of ore. In this latest case, the miner was reportedly targeted after failing to pay the demanded fee. "The victim was already being regularly exploited by guards," the CNRG stated. "When he could not pay, he was shot. He survived but remains in serious condition." Community members allege that when miners fail to meet these demands, which can reportedly escalate to extortion figures as high as US$2,000, guards resort to stoning, beatings, and live ammunition to intimidate the local youth. Beyond the violence, the status of the mine itself has come under heavy scrutiny. The CNRG claims that the Sino-African Huijin operation, reportedly linked to influential local political figures, is currently operating illegally. "The mine’s permit expired and was not renewed, yet operations continue with apparent impunity," the watchdog group alleged. This marks the third shooting incident recorded at this specific site over the past five years, fueling concerns of a systemic failure in provincial mining oversight. Manicaland Provincial Police Spokesperson Wiseman Chinyoka confirmed the shooting but offered a different narrative. Police reports suggest that guards fired in self-defence and used warning shots to disperse a group of "suspected intruders" before the casualty occurred. However, the CNRG has dismissed the self-defence claim, pointing to the entry wound in the victim’s back as evidence of an extrajudicial attack. "The priority must be apprehension and due process, not the meting out of lethal punishment," the group noted. The incident at Premier Estate is not an isolated one. Human rights groups have long warned of the "resource curse" in Manicaland, where local communities often face displacement and violence at the hands of private security syndicates. As the victim recovers in a local hospital, civil society organizations are calling for an immediate audit of Sino Africa Huijin’s licenses and a full criminal investigation into the conduct of its security personnel. Sino Africa Huijin mine shooting

JOHANNESBURG – South African opposition leader Julius Malema has been sentenced to an effective five years in prison after being convicted on multiple counts related to firearm offences stemming from a 2018 incident. Malema, who leads the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), was sentenced by Magistrate Twanet Olivier following his conviction for unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, discharging a firearm in a built-up area, and reckless endangerment. The court handed down the following penalties: Count 1: 5 years imprisonment Count 2: 2 years imprisonment Count 3: R20,000 fine or 6 months imprisonment Count 4: R20,000 fine or 6 months imprisonment Count 5: R20,000 fine or 6 months imprisonment The sentences will run concurrently, meaning Malema faces an effective five-year jail term. The charges relate to a 2018 incident in the Eastern Cape, where Malema was filmed firing what prosecutors said was a real rifle into the air during a political rally at a stadium. During the trial, Malema pleaded not guilty, maintaining that the firearm was a toy and that the act was celebratory rather than criminal. However, delivering judgment, Magistrate Olivier rejected this defence. “It wasn’t an impulsive act. It was the event of the evening,” she said. Malema’s legal team swiftly applied for leave to appeal the ruling moments after sentencing, potentially delaying any immediate imprisonment pending the outcome of higher court proceedings. Legal analysts say the appeal process could significantly alter both the sentence and its implementation. The case has drawn widespread political attention, with hundreds of EFF supporters gathering outside the court in a show of solidarity. The EFF has described the prosecution as politically motivated, arguing it is an attempt to silence one of South Africa’s most outspoken opposition figures. However, the magistrate emphasised that the ruling was strictly legal in nature. “It is not a political party that has been convicted here… it is an individual,” Olivier said. If the sentence is upheld after appeals, Malema could be disqualified from serving as a Member of Parliament, dealing a significant blow to the EFF, currently one of South Africa’s major opposition parties. Political analysts note that the party draws strong support from younger voters frustrated by persistent inequality since the end of apartheid. The case has also sparked debate around accountability, particularly regarding the source of the firearm. Some observers have questioned why the alleged owner of the weapon was not charged. Legal experts say such decisions depend on available evidence and prosecutorial discretion. “Liability depends on proof of knowledge, intent and control over the weapon. If those elements are not met, prosecution becomes difficult,” said Johannesburg-based legal analyst Sipho Dlamini. The appeal process is now expected to take centre stage, with courts set to determine whether the conviction and sentence will stand. Until then, the case remains one of the most closely watched legal and political developments in South Africa. Julius Malema sentence

HARARE  — The Harare High Court has delivered a landmark ruling reinforcing the sweeping powers of the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) to seize assets over unpaid taxes, even when those assets are claimed by third-party financiers. In a judgment delivered on March 23, 2026, Justice Musithu dismissed an application by Africa Century Limited, a prominent microfinance institution, which sought the release of a luxury Toyota Land Cruiser VXR detained by tax authorities. The court ruled that ZIMRA acted within its mandate under the Customs and Excise Act when it placed a lien on the vehicle to recover over US$1.2 million in unpaid duties. The legal battle began after Africa Century financed the vehicle for Brian Justice Enterprises (BJ Enterprises) under a lease-to-buy agreement. Although Africa Century provided the funding and settled the initial duties, ZIMRA impounded the SUV in September 2024. A post-clearance audit had revealed that BJ Enterprises the entity officially listed as the importer owed the state a staggering US$1.2 million in unrelated customs debts. ZIMRA argued that because the vehicle was imported in the debtor's name, it was a fair game for a statutory lien. Africa Century challenged the seizure, arguing it was the "true owner" and financier. However, Justice Musithu’s ruling clarified a critical distinction in Zimbabwean trade law: Financing does not equal "Importer" status. "The mere fact that the applicant provided funding did not automatically make it the importer or owner of the goods for customs purposes," the court held. Because official customs documentation identified BJ Enterprises as the consignee, the vehicle fell under the scope of Section 201 of the Customs and Excise Act. The ruling serves as a stern warning to banks and microfinance institutions across Zimbabwe. Legal experts note that the decision sets a precedent where State claims take priority over private financial interests in customs matters. Key Takeaways from the Ruling: Documentation is King: Import records, not private contracts, determine tax liability. Lien Seniority: ZIMRA can attach any goods linked to a debtor, regardless of third-party financing. Lender Risk: Financiers now bear a significantly higher risk when assets are imported in a client's name rather than their own. While the court dismissed the application for lack of merit, Justice Musithu declined to award costs against Africa Century, noting the case raised "important legal questions of public interest" regarding the intersection of finance and tax law. ZIMRA Africa Century High Court ruling

HARARE  — Tensions in Zimbabwe's public health sector reached a boiling point yesterday, Tuesday, 14 April 2026, as nurses at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals staged a localized protest over "starvation wages" and deteriorating working conditions. The demonstration, characterized by singing and sit-ins within the hospital grounds, served as a final warning shot to the government. The Zimbabwe Nurses Association (ZINA) has officially declared a three-day nationwide strike scheduled to begin today, April 15, and run through April 17, strategically coinciding with the eve of the country’s Independence Day celebrations. Despite the visible unrest at Parirenyatwa, some staff members displayed a cautious front when approached by the press. Many maintained they were merely on "routine tea breaks," likely fearing the repercussions of recent crackdowns. Just last month, 15 nurses were reportedly arrested during a similar picket at Marondera Provincial Hospital, a move that has left the medical community on edge. "We want our money. We cannot continue working for nothing," shouted one protester, while others opted for silent sit-ins in the hospital courtyards. ZINA President Enock Dongo has been vocal about the crisis, noting that many nurses are earning less than US$300 a month—a figure that has been decimated by rising transport costs and triple-digit inflation. The planned industrial action is expected to paralyze major referral centers, including Sally Mugabe Central and Chitungwiza Central, though ZINA has advised staff in intensive and critical care units to remain on duty to prevent loss of life. Key grievances cited by the union include: Basic Salary Review: Calls for a meaningful cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) to match the current economic climate. Transport Crisis: With fuel prices exceeding US$2 per litre, many health workers report walking long distances to work. Pensions & Grading: Concerns that low base pay is ruining future retirement prospects and that job evaluation exercises have been "unfair." Institutional Housing: Demand for free on-site accommodation to ease the financial burden on essential staff. The Health Service Commission (HSC) and the Ministry of Health have yet to offer a breakthrough proposal. While a general civil service pay rise was implemented on April 1, bringing the lowest-paid workers to roughly US$296, unions have rejected the adjustment as insufficient. As Zimbabwe prepares for its 46th Independence anniversary, the healthcare standoff presents a significant challenge for the administration, with the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) urging the government to prioritize the "living wage" of its frontline workers.   Parirenyatwa nurses protest April 2026

HARARE  — The Zimbabwean public healthcare system is bracing for a total shutdown next week as the Zimbabwe Nurses Association (ZINA) officially announced a nationwide strike from April 20 to April 22, 2026. The notice, issued by ZINA President Enock Dongo late Tuesday, comes as a direct response to the "token" salary adjustments recently implemented by the government, which nurses say are an insult to the profession given the hyper-inflationary environment and soaring cost of living. The upcoming industrial action follows the eleventh-hour withdrawal of a strike originally planned for this week (April 15–17). While the union initially paused to allow for dialogue with the Health Service Commission (HSC), the feedback from members after the latest pay cycle was overwhelmingly negative. "The salary review was only done as a token and not seriously meant to address the plight of nurses," the association stated in its legal notice. "Our members have resolved that isolated demonstrations are no longer effective. We require a unified, nationwide act to show the depth of our desperation." At the heart of the dispute is a widening gap between static wages and explosive transport costs. With fuel prices recently surging to US$2.17 per litre, nurses report that their monthly transport allowance, roughly ZiG500 (approx. US$15), is exhausted within three days of commuting. Current Demands of the Nurses Association: Base Salary Benchmarking: Restoring salaries to the pre-2018 benchmark of US$540 for the lowest-paid worker. Night Duty Allowance: An upward review from the current sub-US$50 rate to at least US$200. COLA Introduction: The urgent implementation of a meaningful Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) to cushion against the 40% rise in basic commodity prices seen this quarter. Transparent Payroll: An end to "unexplained deductions" and the regular issuance of electronic payslips. In an internal circular, ZINA leadership urged hospital and provincial representatives to mobilize staff across all ten provinces, emphasizing that this strike will include rural clinics and district centers to ensure "maximum impact." However, in a move to maintain ethical standards and prevent avoidable loss of life, the association has instructed all staff stationed in Intensive Care Units (ICU) and Critical Care Units to remain at their posts. "We are not abandoners of the sick; we are workers who can no longer afford to be at the bedside," a ZINA representative noted. The government, through presidency spokesman George Charamba, has urged "patience," promising that "good tidings" are coming. However, for nurses who have seen their colleagues arrested in Marondera and Sally Mugabe Hospital over the last month, the time for patience has clearly expired.The Zimbabwean public healthcare system is bracing for a total shutdown next week as the Zimbabwe Nurses Association (ZINA) officially announced a nationwide strike from April 20 to April 22, 2026. The notice, issued by ZINA President Enock Dongo late Tuesday, comes as a direct response to the "token" salary adjustments recently implemented by the government, which nurses say are an insult to the profession given the hyper-inflationary environment and soaring cost of living. The upcoming industrial action follows the eleventh-hour withdrawal of a strike originally planned for this week (April 15–17). While the union initially paused to allow for dialogue with the Health Service Commission (HSC), the feedback from members after the latest pay cycle was overwhelmingly negative. "The salary review was only done as a token and not seriously meant to address the plight of nurses," the association stated in its legal notice. "Our members have resolved that isolated demonstrations are no longer effective. We require a unified, nationwide act to show the depth of our desperation." At the heart of the dispute is a widening gap between static wages and explosive transport costs. With fuel prices recently surging to US$2.17 per litre, nurses report that their monthly transport allowance, roughly ZiG500 (approx. US$15), is exhausted within three days of commuting. Current Demands of the Nurses Association: Base Salary Benchmarking: Restoring salaries to the pre-2018 benchmark of US$540 for the lowest-paid worker. Night Duty Allowance: An upward review from the current sub-US$50 rate to at least US$200. COLA Introduction: The urgent implementation of a meaningful Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) to cushion against the 40% rise in basic commodity prices seen this quarter. Transparent Payroll: An end to "unexplained deductions" and the regular issuance of electronic payslips. In an internal circular, ZINA leadership urged hospital and provincial representatives to mobilize staff across all ten provinces, emphasizing that this strike will include rural clinics and district centers to ensure "maximum impact." However, in a move to maintain ethical standards and prevent avoidable loss of life, the association has instructed all staff stationed in Intensive Care Units (ICU) and Critical Care Units to remain at their posts. "We are not abandoners of the sick; we are workers who can no longer afford to be at the bedside," a ZINA representative noted. The government, through presidency spokesman George Charamba, has urged "patience," promising that "good tidings" are coming. However, for nurses who have seen their colleagues arrested in Marondera and Sally Mugabe Hospital over the last month, the time for patience has clearly expired. Zimbabwe nurses strike April 20-22 2026