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- Trump’s Iran War Strategy Questioned as Conflict Continues After Khamenei Killing
Satellite image of Tehran after airstrikes United States President Donald Trump has built much of his political brand on unpredictability. But analysts say his shifting messaging over the war with Iran is increasingly obscuring a deeper problem: the failure to secure the quick victory he appeared to promise. The conflict escalated dramatically following the killing of Ali Khamenei during a joint US-Israeli strike in late February. Iranian state media later confirmed the death of the long-time leader after the airstrike in Tehran. The assassination of the 86-year-old cleric marked one of the most significant escalations in decades of tensions between Washington and Tehran. TIME CBS News Reuters Reuters Despite the loss of its supreme leader and sustained bombing campaigns across the country, Iranian leaders have shown little interest in immediate negotiations. Instead, Tehran has launched retaliatory strikes on regional targets and warned it could disrupt shipping through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a corridor through which roughly a fifth of the world’s oil supply passes. The message from Iran’s leadership appears to be that the country must first demonstrate deterrence before entering any talks. US intelligence assessments suggest that Iran’s political system remains intact despite the leadership shock and ongoing military pressure. Trump has repeatedly suggested the war could end quickly. In recent remarks, however, he has offered conflicting timelines ranging from a few days to several weeks. He has also delivered mixed signals about the purpose of the campaign. At times, he has framed the conflict as support for the Iranian people and opposition groups. At other moments, he has indicated he would be willing to strike a deal with elements of the existing Iranian state. This ambiguity has led critics to argue that Washington has yet to articulate a clear endgame for the military campaign. During his time in office, Trump has frequently relied on limited military strikes designed to achieve rapid political results. However, analysts say a prolonged confrontation with Iran could prove far more complex. Iran maintains extensive regional networks and military capabilities that could extend the conflict across the Middle East. Such a scenario risks higher US casualties, economic disruption, particularly through oil markets, and broader instability for regional allies. Following Khamenei’s death, Iran moved quickly to stabilise the political system. His son, Mojtaba Khamenei , has reportedly assumed the role of supreme leader after an interim leadership arrangement. The rapid transition suggests the Islamic Republic remains structurally resilient despite military pressure. For now, Iranian officials appear unwilling to negotiate without first demonstrating their capacity to retaliate, a stance that could prolong the conflict. Trump’s ambiguous messaging may also provide political flexibility. If the costs of the war rise, analysts say the administration could present the killing of Khamenei and damage to Iranian infrastructure as a decisive victory and move toward negotiations. But the wider consequences could extend far beyond Washington. A prolonged conflict risks deeper instability in the Middle East, economic shocks tied to global energy markets, and uncertainty for regional allies whose economies depend heavily on stability in the Persian Gulf. Trump Iran war
- Govt Outlaws "No Refund" Signs: Retailers Warned of Prosecution Under New Policy
The Government of Zimbabwe has officially declared the ubiquitous "No Refund" signs Harare, Zimbabwe- The Government of Zimbabwe has officially declared the ubiquitous "No Refund" signs seen in retail outlets across the country illegal. The move comes as a central pillar of the Consumer Protection Policy (2026–2030) , which was approved by Cabinet this Tuesday to tackle restrictive and predatory trade practices. Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion Minister Mthuli Ncube presented the policy, which aims to recalibrate the relationship between businesses and consumers, particularly in the informal and electronics sectors. Industry and Commerce Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu emphasized that many retailers, especially informal "runners" and mobile phone shop owners, have been operating under the false assumption that they can dictate refund terms. Key Legal Directives: Illegal Disclaimers: Any sign stating "No Refund," "No Exchange," or "No Returns" is now legally void and constitutes a prosecutable offense. The "Three-Day" Myth: Mobile phone shops that impose arbitrary 48-hour or three-day guarantees are warned that these conditions have no legal basis under the new framework. Reporting Mechanism: Informed consumers are encouraged to report businesses displaying these signs to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) or the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. "It is illegal, and if there are people who are doing that... notify the authorities... so that we can prosecute such businesses." — Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu The only sector exempt from these mandatory return policies is the health and pharmaceutical sector. Due to strict safety, hygiene, and storage requirements, drugs and certain medical supplies cannot be returned once they have left the controlled environment of a pharmacy. Information Minister Zhemu Soda outlined that the policy is not just about refunds, but a broader overhaul of the Zimbabwean marketplace: Product Safety: Intensifying market compliance checks and strengthening the Consignment-Based Conformity Assessment (CBCA) for imports. Digital Trade: Reviewing laws governing e-commerce to protect those buying goods via social media and digital platforms. Anti-Counterfeit: Aggressive measures to tackle the influx of illicit and sub-standard goods. Dispute Resolution: Improving the speed and transparency of mechanisms for resolving conflicts between buyers and sellers. Zimbabwe No Refund signs illegal 2026
- Two Hopley Men Jailed 65 Years for Armed Robbery Spree in Beatrice
Hopley Harare Two men from Hopley in Harare have been sentenced to 65 years in prison after being convicted of a series of violent robberies in Beatrice. The convictions were confirmed by the Zimbabwe Republic Police in a statement issued on 12 March 2026. The accused, Conrad Moyo (22) and Milford Sidhakwa (24), both from Hopley Zone 6 in Harare, were found guilty of taking part in a robbery spree that occurred in Beatrice on the night of 5 March. According to the police, the pair acted together with an accomplice, Shadreck Shava, who is still at large. Police said the suspects were armed with a bolt cutter, machete, okapi knife, small axe, and an electric shocker when they carried out the attacks at around 10 pm. The trio allegedly confronted a security guard before forcing him into a nearby bar, where they robbed a bar attendant of cash, a mobile phone, and beer. During the incident, the security guard was stabbed with an okapi knife and forced to surrender his cellphone. In a statement, Detective Inspector, Provincial Community Relations Liaison Officer Muteweri said the suspects then continued with their robbery spree in the area. “They proceeded to a nearby motel where they forced open locked doors before robbing occupants of cash and other valuables,” Muteweri said. Police said the suspects also broke into another property and robbed the occupant before targeting another complainant from whom they allegedly stole US$609 and four cellphones. The suspects allegedly demanded keys to a Toyota March vehicle in an attempt to flee the scene. However, their escape attempt failed when the car became stuck in mud about 20 metres from the yard, forcing them to abandon the vehicle. A report was later made to the police, prompting officers to launch a search operation in the area. Police arrested Conrad Moyo first, and he later implicated his accomplices during questioning. Milford Sidhakwa was subsequently arrested at Gowerlands Farm in Beatrice. Investigators recovered several items believed to have been used during the robberies, including a bolt cutter, machete, axe, and electric shocker. Police also recovered US$780 in cash and nine mobile phones, which were later positively identified by the complainants. The two suspects appeared before Magistrate Sharon Nxongo at the Beatrice Magistrates Court on 9 March. Public prosecutor Butt Malunga represented the State. On 11 March, the court sentenced the pair to 65 years’ imprisonment with labour. However, 15 years were suspended on condition that they do not commit a similar offence or any crime involving dishonesty within the next five years. Police said investigations are continuing as authorities search for the third suspect. Hopley robbers jailed
- OPINION: Zimbabwean Football’s New Money and the Politics Behind It
Scottland vs Hardbody By Simbarashe Namusi | Date: March 12, 2026 Money is returning to Zimbabwean football. Clubs are signing players again . Wealthy patrons are backing new teams. Conversations around stadium renovations are resurfacing. After years of financial struggle, the domestic game suddenly appears attractive to investors. On the surface, it looks like football is simply recovering. But in Zimbabwe, football money rarely arrives without a political shadow. For years, the domestic league had been drifting to the margins. Stadiums deteriorated, clubs struggled to pay players, and local football slowly lost ground to the European leagues. Now, however, the sport is attracting attention again , and in Zimbabwe, attention around football often extends well beyond the game itself. Football has always been more than a sport. It is one of the most powerful platforms for public influence in the country. A team jersey travels deeper into communities than political messaging ever could. For anyone seeking visibility and public goodwill, football provides an unmatched stage. This is why the recent wave of investment cannot be viewed purely as sporting enthusiasm. Supporting a football club offers something that traditional political campaigning often struggles to achieve, organic public affection . A benefactor who bankrolls a team is quickly embraced by supporters who associate that investment with pride, opportunity, and community recognition. In a country where youth unemployment remains high and political trust is frequently contested, football offers a softer route to influence. It is influenced through entertainment . The timing of this financial resurgence matters. Zimbabwe is entering another political cycle where influence over youth and urban communities carries significant value. Football audiences are young, passionate, and highly engaged, precisely the demographic that political actors often struggle to reach through traditional channels. A well-funded club quickly becomes a public relations machine. Every victory creates a positive association with the club’s benefactor. Corporate actors in mining regions have long understood this, but the new wave of wealthy patrons suggests something broader, football is once again being recognized as a platform of influence. This does not mean every investor entering the game is politically motivated. Some are genuinely passionate. Others see opportunity in a league where the financial barriers to competitiveness remain relatively low. But the political optics remain difficult to ignore. Will this new money rebuild the institutions that once made Zimbabwean football competitive on the continent? Or will the sport become another arena where influence, image, and political ambition quietly shape the game behind the scenes? Zimbabwean football may indeed be entering a new era of investment. The real question is whether the game is being rebuilt or simply rediscovered as one of the country’s most effective instruments of public influence. About the Author: Simbarashe Namusi is a peace, leadership, and governance scholar as well as a media expert writing in his personal capacity. Zimbabwe football investment politics
- Harare High Court to Hear Fadzayi Mahere’s Urgent Bid to Stop US$33,000 Cost Order in Machakaire Case
Fadzai Mahere The High Court of Zimbabwe is expected to hear an urgent application filed by lawyer and politician Fadzayi Mahere seeking to halt the execution of a writ linked to a US$33,000 legal costs order in her ongoing defamation dispute with Youth Minister Tinoda Machakaire. The matter is scheduled to be heard in Harare before Justice Tawanda Chitapi. Mahere is asking the court to grant a stay of execution after lawyers representing Machakaire moved to enforce payment of the legal costs arising from an earlier court ruling. The legal battle between Mahere and Machakaire stems from competing defamation lawsuits currently before the courts . Machakaire initially filed a defamation claim against Mahere. In response, Mahere filed a counterclaim, resulting in two related matters proceeding through the courts. During the proceedings, Mahere filed an exception and a special plea challenging the validity of Machakaire’s claim. However, Justice Chitapi dismissed those objections and ordered Mahere to pay legal costs related to that stage of the litigation. It is those costs that now form the basis of the US$33,000 claim being pursued by Machakaire’s legal team. Mahere has since challenged the costs order and is seeking to stop the enforcement process while her challenge is being considered by the court. Her urgent application asks the court to suspend execution of the writ until the dispute over the legal costs is resolved. In Zimbabwean civil procedure, a writ of execution allows a successful litigant to recover court-awarded costs through legal enforcement measures. Mahere’s application will determine whether enforcement of the costs order can proceed while the broader litigation continues. The legal dispute between the two parties is expected to continue in the coming days. Machakaire has filed a separate application challenging a procedural step taken by Mahere in the same matter. That application is also scheduled to be heard next week before Justice Chitapi. Both the defamation claim and the counterclaim remain pending before the courts. The outcome of the urgent application could determine whether enforcement of the US$33,000 legal costs order proceeds while the wider legal dispute between Mahere and Machakaire continues. Mahere Machakaire legal battle
- Kariba Hydrological Update: Modest Inflows Spark Cautious Optimism for Regional Power
Kariba Dam wall Kariba, Zimbabwe / Siavonga, Zambia- The Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) has reported a "slight but steady" increase in water levels at Lake Kariba as the 2025/2026 rainy season concludes. While the data suggests a stabilization of the reservoir, authorities warn that the world's largest man-made lake remains far from the optimal levels required to end the region's persistent power deficit. The Data: 2026 vs. 2025 vs. 2019 The latest metrics released on Tuesday provide a comparative look at the lake’s recovery. While the current levels outperform the record lows of 2025, they pale in comparison to the "strong rainfall" benchmark of 2019. Metric March 2026 March 2025 March 2019 (Benchmark) Lake Level (Metres) 477.74m 476.93m 481.09m Live Storage (BCM) 10.08 BCM 6.39 BCM 25.0+ BCM (approx) Usable Storage % 15.57% 9.87% 39.99% The most critical figure for energy analysts is the Usable Live Storage, which has climbed to 15.57%. While this represents a nearly 6% improvement over the previous year, the volume is still critically low. The Design Range: The dam operates between 475.50m (Minimum Operating Level) and 488.50m (Maximum Flood Level). At 477.74m, the lake is currently only 2.24 metres above the point where power generation must legally cease to protect the turbines. Stability vs. Recovery: The ZRA emphasizes that the current rise reflects "stabilization" due to local catchment inflows rather than a full-scale hydrological recovery of the upper Zambezi. Lake Kariba remains the primary source of base-load power for both Zimbabwe and Zambia. The prolonged droughts of the early 2020s forced significant load shedding , stifling industrial productivity in the mining and manufacturing sectors. Energy analysts suggest that while the current rise may allow for a slight easing of power cuts in the short term, a "sustained multi-season recovery" is the only path toward total energy self-sufficiency for the two nations. Lake Kariba water levels March 2026
- Over 2,000 women trained in mushroom farming as regional empowerment drive expands
Women receiving certificates at Alimeda Shrine MANICA PROVINCE — More than 2,000 women across southern Africa have graduated from a mushroom production training programme led by Andby Makururu of the Johanne The Fifth of Africa International Church , organisers said, as the initiative continues to scale up efforts to economically empower women in the region. This week, 50 women from Manica Province, Mozambique, received certificates at a graduation ceremony held at the Alimeda Shrine after completing a two‑week course in mushroom cultivation, processing, and value addition. The programme, sponsored by Archbishop Makururu, has trained participants from Mozambique , Zimbabwe, and neighbouring countries, with more than 1,000 trainees from Zimbabwe alone, organisers said. Trainer Simangaliso Sibanda said the course covered practical and commercial aspects of mushroom farming , including: Cultivation techniques for year‑round production. Processing and value addition, such as producing mushroom flour, soup, and porridge. Nutritional and medicinal benefits of mushrooms and basic post‑harvest handling. Sibanda praised participants’ commitment and adaptability despite language barriers. “I have been in Mozambique for almost two weeks, training women in mushroom farming. The programme was sponsored by Archbishop Andby Makururu,” she said. “I explained that mushroom farming has no specific season and can be done throughout the year.” Archbishop Andby Makururu said the initiative forms part of a broader effort to create income‑generating opportunities for women. “I am working to empower women in different ways, and this programme is benefiting many across the region,” he said. The church’s outreach also includes other projects such as detergent‑making and additional small‑business training aimed at diversifying livelihoods. Graduates receive certificates intended to help them access markets, microfinance, and local support networks to turn training into sustainable enterprises. Organisers and trainers highlighted several factors that will determine the programme’s long‑term success: Market access and value chains: Linking producers to buyers and regional markets will be essential for profitability. Access to inputs and starter kits: Affordable spawn, substrate materials, and basic equipment help graduates start production quickly. Technical follow‑up and mentorship: Ongoing agronomic support and business training increase survival rates for new enterprises. Language and cross‑border coordination: Overcoming communication barriers and harmonising training across countries improves outcomes. Advocates say mushroom farming is attractive because it requires relatively small land footprints, can be practised year‑round under controlled conditions, and offers quick turnover compared with many field crops. Going forward, the organisers expect; Expansion of training cohorts beyond the current regions and the number of women who move from training to commercial production. Partnerships with local governments, NGOs, and private sector buyers to scale cold‑chain, packaging, and market access. Availability of microcredit or grant schemes to help graduates purchase inputs and scale operations. Organisers said they will continue rolling out training sessions and seek partnerships to broaden the programme’s reach across southern Africa. mushroom training women Manica 2026
- Mabvuku Man Appears in Court on Murder Charge After Death of Five-Year-Old Daughter
Mabvuku Tafara A 36-year-old man from Mabvuku, Harare, has appeared in court facing a murder charge following the death of his five-year-old daughter in a case that has shocked the local community. The accused, Kudakwashe Monga, appeared before Harare magistrate Ruth Moyo on Wednesday, where he was formally charged with murder. He was not asked to plead. According to the State, the alleged incident occurred last week at the family home in Mabvuku, a high-density suburb in Harare. Prosecutor Lawrence Gangarahwe told the court that the accused allegedly took his daughter into a bedroom shortly before the child’s death. Because the victim is a minor, her identity has been withheld. Court documents presented by the prosecution allege that the child died after being suffocated during the incident. The State claims the accused covered the child with a blanket, causing her to suffocate. The prosecution further alleges that the accused left the scene following the incident, leaving the child inside the house. The matter was brought before the court after the incident was reported to authorities and investigations were launched. Zimbabwean law treats crimes involving minors with particular seriousness, and cases involving allegations of violence against children are typically handled through higher courts. Magistrate Moyo ruled that the matter constitutes a third schedule offence under Zimbabwean law, meaning it is considered a serious charge. As a result, Monga was remanded in custody pending further investigations. He was advised to approach the High Court of Zimbabwe if he intends to apply for bail. The case was postponed to next month to allow investigators to complete their inquiries. Authorities are expected to present further evidence during the next court appearance, including forensic findings and witness statements. The death of the young child has sent shockwaves through the Mabvuku community, where residents say the incident has deeply disturbed many families. Social welfare officials are understood to be assisting relatives as they deal with the loss. The child’s body has been released to family members for burial arrangements. Police investigations into the matter are ongoing. Mabvuku father charged with murder
- Mangwana says Mnangagwa will not gain an extra term under current amendments
Paul Mangwana HARARE — Former Zanu‑PF legal affairs secretary and ex‑minister Paul Mangwana has said President Emmerson Mnangagwa will not benefit from an additional full presidential term under the constitutional amendments now before the country’s courts and political forums. Mangwana, who co‑chaired the 2013 Constitution Parliamentary Select Committee (Copac), argued the changes alter the length of a presidential term but do not increase the number of terms a president may serve. Key points No extra full term: Mangwana said the amendments change the duration of a presidential term but do not reset or extend the number of terms available to an incumbent. He therefore expects President Mnangagwa to serve only two more years, which he said falls short of the three‑to‑five‑year definition of a full term under the law. No referendum needed, he says: Mangwana argued there is no legal need for a referendum on the term‑limit provision because, in his view, the amendment process is observing the constitutional limits on presidential terms. Political fallout: The amendments have sparked intense political debate, multiple Constitutional Court applications, and public protests, with reports of heated rhetoric and incidents of repression across political lines. The current controversy centres on amendments that alter the length of the presidential term. Opponents and some legal challengers contend that the changes could be used to extend an incumbent’s time in office, while supporters maintain the amendments are procedural and do not affect term limits. Mangwana’s interpretation rests on the distinction between term length and term count, and on his experience with the 2013 constitution‑making process. Political and legal implications Constitutional litigation: Multiple applications to the Constitutional Court indicate unresolved legal questions about how the amendments interact with existing term‑limit provisions. The court’s rulings will be decisive in clarifying whether the changes affect eligibility or merely timing. Political stability: The dispute has heightened political tensions and contributed to public demonstrations and counter‑demonstrations. Observers say clarity from the judiciary and transparent public communication will be important to reduce uncertainty. Electoral timetable: If Mangwana’s reading is accepted, the practical effect would be a shortened remaining period for the incumbent rather than an extension, which could influence party strategies and electoral planning. Political parties, civil society groups, and legal practitioners are watching the Constitutional Court and parliamentary processes closely. The court will likely be asked to interpret the amendments’ effect on term limits and on the timing of future elections. Meanwhile, public debate and political mobilisation around the issue are expected to continue. Mangwana Mnangagwa extra term amendments
- NetOne Suspends Chief Commercial Officer Learnmore Masunda Over Misconduct Allegations
NetOne Building Harare State-owned mobile telecommunications company NetOne has suspended its Chief Commercial Officer, Learnmore Masunda , without pay, following allegations of misconduct, conflict of interest, regulatory non-compliance, and corporate governance breaches . The suspension comes after an internal investigation reportedly substantiated several allegations against the senior executive. According to sources familiar with the matter, Masunda has been seeking high-level intervention and recently requested a meeting with Emmerson Mnangagwa to discuss his case. On Wednesday, he reportedly met with Martin Rushwaya. Masunda was initially placed on forced leave on February 2 to allow an independent investigation into the allegations. Following the completion of the probe, which reportedly substantiated evidence relating to 10 charges, NetOne formally suspended him on Monday pending the outcome of disciplinary proceedings. The investigation was carried out by an independent private firm, DT Guard Security . The probe involved reviewing documents, conducting structured interviews, and assessing compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements. Investigators also analysed corporate governance practices and internal control systems at the telecoms operator. Masunda’s suspension comes amid reported tensions within the executive leadership at NetOne. The dispute has involved senior management figures, including the company’s chief executive officer, Raphael Mushanawani . Last year, Mushanawani himself faced scrutiny after the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission arrested him in connection with allegations of a US$1.2 million fraud linked to an IT system upgrade involving Sage accounting software. Authorities alleged that the matter involved the upgrade of a Sage enterprise resource planning system used by the telecommunications company. Sources say most of the allegations against Masunda were substantiated during the investigation, prompting the company to initiate disciplinary proceedings. The process could potentially lead to further actions, including possible criminal referrals if any offences are established. Other possible outcomes include the recovery of financial losses and the remediation of internal control weaknesses identified during the investigation. Control remediation refers to the process of identifying and correcting weaknesses within internal systems, including information technology controls, operational procedures, and corporate governance structures. NetOne, one of Zimbabwe’s major mobile network operators, is wholly owned by the government and plays a key role in the country’s telecommunications sector. The disciplinary process is expected to continue in the coming weeks. NetOne Learnmore Masunda suspension
- Trial Standoff: NPA Moves to Compel Walter Magaya’s Plea Amid Constitutional Challenge
Official seal of the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPA) representing the State's case Harare, Zimbabwe- The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has filed a formal application at the Harare Regional Magistrates’ Court to compel Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD ) Ministries founder, Walter Magaya, to finally enter a plea in his ongoing rape trial. The State’s move, confirmed on Thursday, comes after a series of procedural delays that prosecutors have labeled as "frivolous and vexatious." Magaya currently faces six counts of rape, involving three primary complainants. Relying on Section 168 and Section 182 of the Criminal Procedure and Evidence Act , the NPA contends that Magaya’s legal strategy is designed to frustrate the judicial process. Victims' Rights: The prosecution argues that witnesses and alleged victims have a "legitimate expectation" that trials proceed within a reasonable timeframe. Justice Denied: The NPA asserts that the continuous filing of interlocutory applications has effectively "blocked" the commencement of the trial, denying justice to both the survivors and the State. Simultaneously, Magaya has applied for the case to be referred to the Constitutional Court , raising serious allegations of misconduct against the State. Key Points of the Constitutional Challenge: Withdrawn Testimony: Magaya relies on an affidavit from one complainant who reportedly no longer wishes to testify. He argues a criminal charge cannot exist without a willing complainant. DNA Procedures: He alleges his rights were violated when authorities moved him from Harare Remand Prison to Parirenyatwa Hospital for DNA sampling without his legal counsel present. He further claims results have been withheld, hindering his defense. Witness Statement Alteration: Magaya accuses prosecutors of illegally amending a witness statement from a complainant based in Ireland, a task he argues belongs solely to the police. Magaya maintains a consistent denial of all six charges, framing the prosecution as a violation of his rights to equality, liberty, and a fair trial. The court must now decide whether to grant the NPA’s request to compel a plea or allow the matter to escalate to the Constitutional Court for a determination on the legality of the proceedings. Walter Magaya rape trial March 2026
- Former CABS Manager Jailed for US$182K Fraud After Abusing Corporate Loan Facility
Talent Tarisai Zimbindi, former CABS manager A former employee of Central African Building Society (CABS) has been sentenced to an effective four-year prison term after the Harare Magistrates' Court found him guilty of defrauding the financial institution of US$182,758. The accused, Talent Tarisai Zimbindi, previously worked as a Client Relationship Manager at the bank. Prosecutors said he abused his position to manipulate corporate loan facilities and divert funds into a company he controlled before withdrawing the money for personal use. According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe , the fraudulent scheme took place over three months in 2024 and resulted in losses of more than US$182,000. In a statement issued by the prosecution authority on 11 March 2025, officials said Zimbindi used his role within the bank to process loan facilities intended for legitimate corporate clients. Between August and October 2024, he allegedly redirected the loan funds into an account belonging to Rozim Mining (Private) Limited, a company under his control. “The offender abused his position by processing loan facilities meant for corporate clients and diverted the funds to a company account he controlled,” the prosecution authority said. Investigators later established that the funds were withdrawn and used for personal purposes. Corporate lending facilities are typically subject to strict verification procedures within banking institutions to prevent abuse and protect depositors’ funds. However, prosecutors said the accused exploited internal access to manipulate the transactions. Authorities said the fraud came to light after irregularities were discovered in the bank’s records during routine checks. “The fraud was discovered after discrepancies were found in the bank’s records,” the prosecution authority said. Subsequent investigations confirmed that a total of US$182,758 had been unlawfully diverted from the financial institution. None of the funds were recovered, leading to Zimbindi’s arrest and prosecution. Financial fraud cases involving abuse of internal banking systems are increasingly being prosecuted in Zimbabwe as authorities seek to protect the integrity of the country’s financial sector. The Harare Magistrates’ Court initially imposed a 10-year prison sentence on Zimbindi. However, part of the sentence was suspended under certain conditions. Three years were suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour, while another three years were suspended on the condition that the accused restitutes the complainant. As a result, Zimbindi will serve an effective four-year jail term behind bars. The case highlights ongoing efforts by prosecutors and financial institutions to clamp down on fraud and abuse of corporate lending facilities in Zimbabwe’s banking sector. Former CABS Manager Jailed













