By Staff Reporter | Rusape A Rusape marriage dispute involving allegations of adultery, assault and a disputed paternity claim has spilled into Chief Makoni’s community court, after a man accused another man of having an affair with his wife. Ashley Nyabunze told the court that his marriage to Chido Mandeya, with whom he has three children, had deteriorated after he discovered what he alleged was an affair between his wife and Ngonidzashe Chikunguru. Nyabunze said he had supported Mandeya’s training as a mortician at Rusape General Hospital, but later became suspicious after receiving information that Chikunguru was driving her around. He alleged that Mandeya also used a secret cellphone to communicate with Chikunguru. “I used a friend’s vehicle to monitor her movements, and at one point saw her with my cousin while she was communicating with Chikunguru and asking him to buy her pizza,” Nyabunze told the court. He said he later confronted Mandeya at their home, resulting in a confrontation during which he claimed she admitted to the relationship and subsequently apologised to his relatives. According to Nyabunze, Mandeya’s parents then asked her to stay with them temporarily. “Although I forgave her, she has not returned. Whenever I followed up, the discussions centred on assault allegations rather than reconciliation,” he said. Nyabunze also accused Mandeya’s mother and sister, Irene, of knowing about the alleged relationship and communicating with Chikunguru. He further claimed that he recently encountered Mandeya, her sister and Chikunguru at an apostolic shrine. “When I arrived, a prophet was conducting prayers and talking about casting out evil spirits. As soon as they saw me, Chido, her sister, Chikunguru and the prophet locked themselves inside,” he alleged. Wife denies affair, alleges assault Mandeya denied having an affair with Chikunguru and told the court that any admission she had previously made was obtained under duress. She accused Nyabunze of assaulting her and said she feared for her life. “I only admitted to dating Chikunguru because I was being assaulted. I was severely beaten and feared for my life,” she said. Mandeya alleged that Nyabunze forced her to call Chikunguru and tell him that she loved him before taking her to Silverbow Cemetery, where she claimed the assault continued. She further alleged that Nyabunze threatened to kill and bury her. “My clothes were covered in blood, and I was rescued by a passer-by. When we returned home, he continued assaulting me with a new fan belt,” she told the court. Mandeya confirmed that she met Chikunguru while undertaking her course at Rusape General Hospital but denied having an affair with him. She also told the court that she no longer wanted to continue her marriage to Nyabunze. Her mother and sister Irene denied facilitating any relationship between Mandeya and Chikunguru, while Chikunguru also denied the adultery allegations. DNA test ordered After hearing evidence from the parties, Chief Makoni found in favour of Nyabunze on the adultery claim and ordered a DNA test on a child born during the period when the allegations first arose. In his ruling, Chief Makoni said Mandeya had shown no remorse and appeared to be protecting Chikunguru. He cited the alleged secret cellphone and the parties’ reported presence at prophets’ gatherings as part of the evidence before the court. “The evidence presented before the court is overwhelming,” Chief Makoni ruled. The chief said the matter would proceed after the DNA results become available. The allegations of assault made by Mandeya were disputed within the proceedings, and any separate criminal implications would require determination through the appropriate legal process. The case highlights the increasingly complex disputes that can come before traditional courts, where family breakdown, allegations of infidelity and paternity disputes can overlap. Rusape marriage dispute

By Staff Reporter | Harare The owner of Scorpion Empire Car Sale in Southerton, Harare, has been arrested in connection with the fatal dog attack that claimed the life of a 39-year-old passerby last week. Gilbert Rumbwere, 44, was arrested on Tuesday, September 29, almost a week after Malcom Takudzwa Muzavazi was attacked by dogs near the car dealership. Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed Rumbwere’s arrest. Muzavazi was attacked between 6 pm and 6.30 pm on September 24 while walking along a footpath between the ZESA Holdings perimeter wall and the car dealership. Police said the dogs involved were a male Belgian Malinois and three Belgian Malinois-German Shepherd crossbreeds. At the time of the attack, the dogs were reportedly under the care of a private security guard who had released them from their kennels for feeding. The security guard, Mannex Svova, 21, and the car sale’s co-owner, Itai Tamirepi, 43, had already been arrested in connection with the incident. Rumbwere’s arrest brings the number of people arrested in connection with the case to three. Police have not yet provided details of the specific charges faced by the suspects or indicated when they are expected to appear in court. The fatal attack has renewed concerns about the responsibility of dog owners and handlers to ensure that animals are properly confined and controlled, particularly where businesses are located close to residential areas and public walkways. Commissioner Nyathi urged dog owners to take precautions to prevent their animals from attacking members of the public. “The Zimbabwe Republic Police reiterates that all dog owners should exercise responsibility and ensure that their dogs are properly secured and controlled at all times to prevent attacks on members of the public,” Nyathi said. He warned against allowing dogs to roam freely in residential areas or public spaces. “No dog should be left to roam streets or suburbs with no owner on sight or under leash,” he said. Nyathi also reminded dog owners to comply with relevant laws, regulations and local authority by-laws governing the keeping and control of dogs. This includes properly confining animals within private premises and ensuring they cannot escape and endanger members of the public. Police have also appealed to residents to report stray, aggressive or uncontrolled dogs before they cause harm. Reports can be made to the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA), relevant local authorities or the nearest police station. Members of the public can also contact the ZRP National Complaints Desk on 0242 703631 or WhatsApp on 0712 800 197. The investigation into Muzavazi’s death is continuing. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Southerton fatal dog attack

People living with diabetes face ongoing medication, monitoring, dietary and healthcare costs. By Anna Miti On X (formerly Twitter), a user recently sparked thousands of comments with a simple but provocative claim- "I would rather live with HIV than diabetes, because diabetes is a far harder disease to live with." They reasoned that they had never seen anyone on antiretroviral treatment looking anything less than healthy, yet had watched a close family member, despite faithfully taking his diabetes medication, lose a leg to amputation. Commentators pushed back, pointing out that neither illness is a matter of choice. "Just choose to be healthy," some said. The exchange captured something real- while HIV awareness and information are now relatively widespread, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like hypertension and diabetes still receive far less attention despite affecting a significant share of Zimbabwe's population. To address this gap, the Merck Foundation, in partnership with the Office of the First Lady, Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa, organised a Health Media Training in September to raise awareness of diabetes, hypertension, and infertility, and to urge journalists to report on these issues more consistently. A recent study found that approximately 14.3% of Zimbabweans reported being diagnosed with at least one NCD, with hypertension and diabetes showing prevalence rates of 10.8% and 2.2%, respectively. Living with Diabetes "Diabetes is an expensive condition," says Mrs. Grace Choga, who was diagnosed more than 15 years ago and has been on chronic medication for over a decade. "Besides the medication, I need glucose strips to regularly check my blood sugar, plus periodic check-ups with the doctor. On top of that, there are special dietary requirements that cost more than ordinary food." One of the biggest dangers, she says, is not knowing you have diabetes at all. "That's what happened to my mother. Despite symptoms like excessive thirst and weight loss, she didn't know she was diabetic until she suddenly went into a diabetic coma and died ten days later in hospital." At the training, Dr. Mohsin Sidat, a medical doctor from Mozambique, outlined common diabetes symptoms, which are excessive thirst (polydipsia), excessive appetite (polyphagia), excessive urination (polyuria), unexplained weight loss, vision changes, and fatigue. Left unmanaged, he warned, diabetes can seriously damage the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and nerves. He stressed the importance of early detection, particularly for people with a family history of the disease, given its genetic risk factors. He also said early detection is also important for hypertension and regular testing should be encouraged. Stigma and Misunderstanding Nyasha Moyo (not her real name), 26, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 14. "There's a joke I hate that diabetes 'runs in the family because no one runs in the family.' Whenever people find out I have it and see that I'm a bit bigger than others, they assume I'm just a 'fat slob' who deserves it. Others jump straight into giving me dietary and exercise advice. I know they mean well, but they make so many assumptions." Dr. Sidat explained the distinction between the two types. In Type 1 diabetes, the immune system mistakenly destroys insulin-producing cells, so the body makes little or no insulin. In Type 2, the more common form globally, including across much of Africa, the body's cells become resistant to insulin, and the pancreas eventually can't keep up with demand. While a sedentary lifestyle is a risk factor for Type 2 diabetes, he noted it isn't the only one. Genetics play a significant role, where having a parent with diabetes increases one's own risk, alongside factors like smoking, hypertension, age (45+), and ethnicity (Black African and African Caribbean people face higher risk). Gestational diabetes, which affects pregnant people, is another form entirely. Chronic Illness Fatigue Nyasha began injecting insulin at 14, and admits that at points she grew exhausted by the demands of living with the condition — exhausted enough to contemplate suicide. "I was tired of not being able to live like other kids. I couldn't go to boarding school or visit relatives for extended periods, because my parents worried other people wouldn't recognise the signs of low or high blood sugar, or know what to do during an episode. I hate being shamed for carrying snacks everywhere in case of low blood sugar. People just think I'm always eating because I'm fat." Mrs. Choga echoes this frustration. "People assume you're lazy and using diabetes as an excuse, not realising fatigue is one of the condition's actual effects. Some even accuse us of 'bragging' when we mention it. It gets exhausting, constantly having to explain yourself." What Needs to Change Nyasha wants to see more psychosocial support for people living with diabetes — support she says is critical given how stressful the condition can be, particularly for younger patients, and one that should extend to caregivers too, who face their own challenges. Mrs. Choga is calling on the government to subsidise diabetes-related costs such as cheaper glucose strips, free healthcare in marginalised and rural areas, and greater access to specialists like nutritionists and internal medicine physicians who can help detect and manage complications such as neuropathy. She also hopes diagnostic testing becomes more widely accessible. Dr. Prince Mangwiro, responding to questions from journalists, emphasised prevention. He said regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine check-ups remain the most effective tools against Type 2 diabetes. "Avoid sugary and overprocessed foods," he added. "Even a 30-minute walk, three times a week, goes a long way toward a healthier lifestyle." Whether diabetes is "harder" to live with than HIV misses the point the debate itself proves that both are chronic, both are stigmatised in different ways, and both deserve to be talked about accurately and without judgment. diabetes in Zimbabwe

By Staff Reporter | Chitungwiza A 40-year-old man has been arrested following the death of a 51-year-old woman during an alleged surgical procedure at a house in Chitungwiza. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) identified the suspect as Douglas Mutore and the deceased as Magret Gwamura. According to police, the incident occurred on September 24, 2026, at a house in Unit D, Seke, where Mutore allegedly attempted to remove a growth from Gwamura’s throat using a surgical blade. Police said Gwamura died during the procedure, after which Mutore allegedly fled from the scene. The circumstances surrounding the alleged operation and the nature of the growth were not immediately disclosed by police. Police attended the scene and recovered surgical instruments, blood-stained bandages and used medication, according to the ZRP. Investigations also reportedly established that Mutore was not in possession of practising certificates at the time of his arrest. The case has raised concerns over the dangers of seeking medical treatment from unregistered practitioners or outside recognised healthcare facilities. The ZRP urged members of the public to verify the credentials of people offering medical services and to seek treatment from registered medical practitioners and recognised health institutions. “The ZRP urges the public to verify the credentials of persons offering medical services and to seek treatment from registered medical practitioners and recognised health institutions,” police said. The arrest follows increasing public concern over unqualified individuals offering medical services without the necessary professional registration or oversight. Medical procedures, particularly those involving surgery, carry significant risks and require appropriate facilities, trained personnel, sterile equipment and emergency medical support. In the Chitungwiza case, police have not yet provided further details on whether the suspect had represented himself as a qualified medical practitioner or how Gwamura came to seek the alleged procedure at the house. The investigation is continuing. Mutore is facing allegations arising from Gwamura’s death, and the case remains subject to due process. He is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Police have urged anyone seeking medical treatment to confirm that practitioners are properly registered before undergoing procedures. Chitungwiza home surgery death

Eighty bakers from across Zimbabwe have graduated from the Bridal Innovations International Cake Academy after completing a five-month professional course designed to transform baking skills into a science-based enterprise. The graduates came from different parts of the country, including Harare, Murambinda and Victoria Falls, highlighting the growing reach of baking as a source of entrepreneurship and income generation. The academy says its training goes beyond traditional baking techniques by introducing students to the scientific principles, equipment and processes involved in producing professional-quality cakes and other baked products. The graduation ceremony also brought attention to challenges facing the growing training institution, including limited sponsorship, the high cost of importing specialised equipment and inadequate space to accommodate increasing demand. Guest of honour Andrew Makahamadze, the Zanu-PF DCC Secretary for Business Development and the party’s shadow legislator for Southerton Constituency, said the spread of baking enterprises beyond Harare demonstrated the potential of skills-based entrepreneurship. “This drive is not just centred in Harare. You are seeing it is cutting across all provinces,” Makahamadze said. He said the emergence of professional bakers in areas such as Murambinda showed that entrepreneurship opportunities were reaching communities outside major urban centres. “We are so elated, we are so happy that women are rising up and doing amazing things in baking, making it a scientific profession.” Makahamadze also urged greater support for institutions providing practical skills and entrepreneurship training. He described the graduates’ products as having a “Midas touch”, saying their work demonstrated the potential of Zimbabwean entrepreneurs to develop products that could compete beyond the local market. Baking beyond the kitchen Bridal Innovations International Cake Academy chief executive officer Indra Chiyerere said the institution wanted baking to be treated as a professional discipline requiring technical knowledge and appropriate equipment. “Baking is something where it's not just like mixing flour with eggs. It is science,” Chiyerere said. She said the academy needed additional support to import specialised machinery and secure larger premises. “We need machinery, we need mixers, we need ovens, we need to change the baking world.” The academy is also appealing for support from Government, non-governmental organisations and other partners as it seeks to expand its training programmes. The demand for training, according to the academy, is being driven by people seeking to turn baking into sustainable businesses rather than treating it solely as a domestic skill. Skills creating opportunities For graduates, the course provided an opportunity to acquire formal certification while improving their understanding of cake production. Tinotenda Gatsi, who graduated as a certified beginner, said the training had changed her understanding of baking. “It is such a beautiful thing to express that scientific learning changes the way we think about cakes. I am happy and proud to be part of it,” she said. The academy’s reach into remote communities was illustrated by the participation of Tafadzwa Chikuvire from Murambinda. Chikuvire said distance and infrastructure challenges had not prevented her from pursuing professional baking skills, but access to reliable energy remained a major obstacle. “We need support with sustainable equipment that can work without electricity since in Murambinda we do not have electricity. Maybe we can receive solar or gas-powered appliances,” she said. Her appeal highlights one of the practical challenges faced by entrepreneurs operating outside major urban centres, where unreliable or limited electricity can affect production and increase operating costs. For the academy, expanding access to appropriate equipment and training could help more bakers turn their skills into viable businesses. The graduation therefore marked more than the completion of a five-month course. It also showcased the growing interest in baking as a professional and entrepreneurial field, particularly among women and young people seeking income-generating opportunities. With graduates now returning to communities ranging from Harare to Victoria Falls and Murambinda, the academy hopes its training model can contribute to the growth of Zimbabwe’s small and medium enterprise sector. Zimbabwe bakers graduation

Veteran clinical scientist and businessman Owen Machamire has been remembered for a career defined by professionalism, precision and service to Zimbabwe’s healthcare sector. Former Health Minister Dr Obadiah Moyo paid tribute to Machamire at his funeral on Monday, describing the veteran laboratory scientist as a highly knowledgeable haematology specialist whose work doctors could rely on when making critical decisions about patients. Machamire died after a short battle with cancer, following a diagnosis only weeks before his death. Dr Moyo said Machamire’s work in medical laboratory science demanded exceptional accuracy because laboratory results often formed the basis for diagnosis and treatment. “Owen used to produce the best quality results,” Dr Moyo said. He said Machamire was among the professionals whose work could be trusted without reservation. “There are people you have to believe in and people you have to know that if you ask so-and-so to do that work, you will get the correct results.” Machamire specialised in haematology, the branch of laboratory medicine concerned with blood, blood-forming organs and blood disorders. Dr Moyo said laboratory scientists played a critical role in healthcare despite often working away from the public spotlight. “He is the one who gave the determination to the doctor. The doctor had to wait for him for his results. So Owen was important to our community. Very important, very knowledgeable.” He said Machamire understood the consequences of errors in laboratory work and was committed to following established procedures. “It was not a matter of guessing around and a person could end up killing someone. You must follow strict procedures and precise methods. Owen was professional in that respect.” From laboratory science to business Machamire later established OM Medical Supplies, extending his contribution to the healthcare sector by supplying products used by laboratories and health institutions. His professional career included service at Parirenyatwa Hospital in Harare and work with the National Health Service in London. He also spent time in Malawi before undertaking further training and developing his specialisation in haematology. Dr Moyo remembered Machamire as academically gifted and deeply knowledgeable in his field. “He was a very clever man in class. Knew his subject well,” he said. Machamire’s contribution to healthcare eventually extended into community service. At the time of his illness, he was serving as chairperson overseeing Melfort Clinic, where he regularly visited the facility to assess its needs and worked to secure medicines and other supplies. Goromonzi Rural District Council vice chairperson Spiwe Musekiwa said Machamire’s death had therefore affected the wider community. “It is not only the Machamire family that has lost. The whole community has lost,” she said. Musekiwa said Machamire was actively involved in efforts to improve the clinic. “The work he was doing at the clinic was very big. He was looking for medicines and would come and see what was going on.” She described him as a dependable community figure who responded quickly whenever his assistance was needed. “With Mr Machamire, whenever I requested his assistance to go somewhere locally to attend to something, Mr Machamire would hurry,” she said. A legacy beyond medicine Machamire’s professional experience also led to his involvement with the National Men’s Forum, where he had been selected as provincial health coordinator for Mashonaland East. Dr Moyo, who serves as the organisation’s national health adviser, said the forum had been looking for people with the experience and qualifications to coordinate health programmes at provincial level. Machamire was selected for Mashonaland East based on his professional background and record of service. Plans had also been underway for him to assess the requirements at Melfort Clinic and help mobilise support for the facility. “He knew how to run a simple hospital,” Dr Moyo said. “Very, very innovative.” For longtime friend Charles Mungofa, however, Machamire’s passing was also the loss of a friendship that had lasted more than four decades. Mungofa told mourners that the two men had met in the 1980s and developed a close bond. “Since we first met in the ’80s, we struck a very strong bond. What he did, I also did,” he said. Mungofa said he affectionately called Machamire “Chef”, a nickname that reflected their longstanding friendship. Beyond his professional achievements, Machamire was remembered for connecting generations of medical laboratory professionals and maintaining relationships with colleagues whose careers stretched back to Zimbabwe’s early years of independence. His death has left colleagues, community leaders, friends and family mourning a healthcare professional whose career combined laboratory science, entrepreneurship and community service. Owen Machamire

ZANU PF-affiliated youth empowerment organisation Boys dzaMdara is preparing to mark its fourth anniversary in Harare during the first week of October, with the event expected to focus on youth entrepreneurship, community projects and efforts to combat drug and substance abuse. The celebrations are expected to be attended by Vice President Kembo Mohadi and will bring together young people from across Zimbabwe and the diaspora, according to the organisation. Boys dzaMdara describes itself as a youth lobby group focused on entrepreneurship and participation in the national economy, with its activities linked to the Government’s Vision 2030 agenda. The organisation’s national chairman, Hopewell Chako, has previously said the group seeks to support young people with business ideas and community-driven projects. The organisation has also been involved in youth empowerment and community initiatives in different provinces. National spokesperson Tawanda Shanya said the anniversary would provide an opportunity for young people to showcase projects and engage Government ministries on issues affecting them. “We are mobilising youth around the country, we are mobilising youth beyond borders, youth from the diaspora,” Shanya said. He said Government ministries had been invited to participate in the event and respond to questions from young people. The organisation is expected to showcase some of its income-generating projects, including a fence-making machine in Manicaland and regalia-printing equipment in Harare. Boys dzaMdara has previously reported receiving empowerment funding for projects involving machinery and production. In January, the organisation said equipment had been acquired for projects in several provinces, including a fence-making machine in Manicaland and sewing equipment in Masvingo. It also said a clothing and regalia production facility was operating at national level. Shanya said such projects were intended to translate youth empowerment into practical economic activity. “We have seen the fence-making machine which we bought for the Manicaland province. We also have seen the massive regalia printing machines for Harare province,” he said. The organisation has also placed drug and substance abuse prevention among its youth priorities. Shanya said Boys dzaMdara wanted to link economic empowerment with efforts to keep young people away from drugs and other substances. “We are saying, us as youth, we are saying no to drugs and substance abuse,” he said. The group has previously said it plans to conduct awareness activities on drug and substance abuse among young people. The anniversary will also provide an opportunity for the organisation to highlight its relationship with Government empowerment programmes. Shanya credited President Emmerson Mnangagwa's administration with providing funding that the organisation says has supported its projects. “These funds are still working towards Vision 2030 and have given us the strength to expand our projects,” he said. Boys dzaMdara has increasingly combined its political affiliation with entrepreneurship, community outreach and youth mobilisation. In 2025, the organisation held youth empowerment activities and community initiatives, while its chapters have also undertaken projects in education, healthcare and income generation. The group has also participated in recent ZANU PF-linked youth activities, including the 2026 Munhumutapa Day preparations, where it showcased youth projects and supported initiatives involving poultry, piggery, sewing and fencing. For its fourth anniversary, the organisation says the central message will be youth participation in economic development and national building. Shanya summed up the organisation’s message using the Government’s development slogan: “Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo, brick by brick towards Vision 2030.” Boys dzaMdara fourth anniversary

Mpundu Valerie Gedo Grassroots Empowerment Developmental Organisation (GEDO) has handed over 4,500 sanitary pads to the Scott Foundation in a move aimed at improving Menstrual Hygiene Management for vulnerable girls and women from disadvantaged households. The donation is expected to reduce absenteeism among school-going girls, promote better health and hygiene, and ensure vulnerable women and girls can manage their periods with dignity and without interrupting their daily lives. The donation will ensure beneficiaries are able to manage their menstrual health with dignity, confidence and comfort, while also helping to keep girls in school. Speaking at the handover, GEDO CEO Sarah Musekiwa said the initiative is part of a broader commitment to ensure menstrual health is treated as a right, not a privilege. "As Gedo Foundation, we believe sanitary wear should not be a privilege but a basic right for every female. This donation to Scott Foundation is the first of many as we commit ourselves to improving Menstrual Hygiene Management and restoring dignity for girls and women in our communities," said Musekiwa. She emphasized that lack of access to sanitary wear has far-reaching consequences beyond physical discomfort. "When a girl lacks sanitary wear, she loses more than just comfort, she loses school days, confidence, and dignity. By providing sanitary wear, we are not just giving a product, we are keeping girls in school and giving them a fair chance to chase their dreams," she added. Musekiwa further stressed the need for collective action to end period poverty. "Menstrual Hygiene Management is health, it is dignity, it is equality. No woman should have to use unsafe alternatives because she cannot afford pads. We hope this gesture inspires others, because together we can ensure no girl is left behind because of her period," she said. Speaking on behalf of the receiving organisation, Mrs Joyce Muyengwa, Social Worker at Scott Foundation, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support. "As Scott Foundation, we are deeply grateful to Gedo. This donation is particularly meaningful because access to menstrual hygiene products remains a challenge for many vulnerable girls and women, especially those from disadvantaged households," said Muyengwa. "We sincerely appreciate Gedo for partnering with us and for demonstrating that meaningful change can be achieved when organisations come together to respond to the needs of vulnerable communities." "The donation will go a long way in supporting girls and women in our communities to manage their menstrual health with dignity, confidence and comfort, while also keeping girls in school as access to sanitary products can affect school attendance and participation," she noted. Access to sanitary wear remains a critical factor in advancing gender equality, safeguarding health and protecting the right to education. By ensuring girls and women have the products they need, communities invest not only in hygiene but in confidence, opportunity and a more equitable future where menstruation is never a barrier to progress. GEDO sanitary pad donation

By Staff Reporter | Harare At 4.30 am, while much of Harare is still asleep, Colonel Dr Miniyothabo “Minnie” Baloyi-Chiwenga is already exercising. The military officer’s disciplined routine of bodyweight exercises, core drills and other physical conditioning has become part of a wider public conversation about fitness, nutrition and preventative health following the launch of her Wellness Plus Movement. Launched in September to coincide with her 50th birthday, the initiative includes a US$10,000 weight-loss challenge and seeks to encourage Zimbabweans to adopt healthier lifestyles. The campaign comes as Zimbabwe, like many other countries, faces a growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and stroke. The World Health Organisation (WHO) identifies unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, tobacco use and harmful alcohol consumption among major behavioural risk factors for NCDs. Regular physical activity, meanwhile, can help prevent and manage conditions including hypertension, heart disease, stroke and diabetes. A quiet health burden Zimbabwe’s health challenges are reflected in its hypertension profile. WHO data shows physical inactivity among adults at about 27 percent, while adult obesity is estimated at 16 percent. The figures also show a significant gender difference, with obesity estimated at 25 percent among adult women compared with 5 percent among men. Hypertension is particularly concerning because it can remain undetected for years. WHO says people with high blood pressure often experience no symptoms and that regular blood-pressure measurement is the most reliable way of detecting the condition. If untreated, hypertension can contribute to heart disease, stroke and kidney disease. For Zimbabweans whose livelihoods depend on daily work, chronic illness can have consequences beyond the consulting room. A market trader, commuter, informal-sector worker or small-business owner who becomes seriously ill may lose income while also facing the costs associated with consultations, medication and other treatment. This makes prevention an increasingly important part of the public-health conversation. From military discipline to public wellness Baloyi-Chiwenga’s military background has shaped the way she approaches fitness. Her Wellness Plus Movement combines exercise with nutrition, hydration, rest, weight management and greater awareness of personal health. Speaking at the launch, she said turning 50 prompted her to think about how she could use the milestone to contribute to society. “I decided to introduce several initiatives to assist myself, the people, and the society around me. Therefore, I am launching the Wellness Plus Movement.” The initiative is intended to move the wellness conversation beyond occasional exercise towards sustainable lifestyle changes. Participants in the inaugural challenge are encouraged to adopt regular exercise routines and publicly document their progress, creating an element of accountability around the programme. Baloyi-Chiwenga has also emphasised the importance of science-backed information and long-term habits rather than focusing exclusively on rapid weight loss. Exercise is not a replacement for treatment The growing popularity of fitness programmes, however, comes with an important health warning. WHO says lifestyle changes such as increased physical activity, healthier diets and weight reduction can help prevent and lower hypertension. But some people with hypertension still require medication and continued medical care. That distinction is important as wellness campaigns gain visibility. A person who suspects they have high blood pressure should not rely on exercise or weight loss alone. Screening, professional assessment, and appropriate treatment remain essential. WHO also recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity a week for adults, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity, together with muscle-strengthening activities on at least two days a week. Beyond individual responsibility The challenge for Zimbabwe is that healthier living is not simply a matter of personal discipline. Food prices, working hours, commuting patterns, access to recreational spaces and household income can all influence what people eat and how much physical activity they can realistically undertake. WHO’s Zimbabwe annual report has highlighted the need for additional resources to address NCD risk factors including obesity, unhealthy diets and physical inactivity, while strengthening access to standardised NCD services. That means the wellness conversation must extend beyond gyms and individual challenges to include communities, workplaces, schools, healthcare facilities and policymakers. The Wellness Plus Movement cannot by itself resolve Zimbabwe’s NCD burden. But its emergence at a time when chronic diseases are placing increasing pressure on individuals and health systems illustrates a growing recognition that health cannot be treated only when illness appears. For many Zimbabweans, the message may ultimately be less about losing weight and more about knowing their numbers, moving more, eating more carefully, and seeking medical attention before a preventable condition becomes a crisis. Zimbabwe wellness movement

By Staff Reporter | Johannesburg The discovery of another woman’s body in Ekurhuleni has brought to 11 the number of women found dead in the municipality over the past 10 weeks, raising renewed concern over violence against women in the area. Police said the latest victim was found in an open field shortly after midday on Sunday after a security company vehicle passing through the area spotted the body and alerted authorities. The woman’s identity, age and cause of death had not been established at the time of reporting. The discovery came a day after police responded to another scene in Ekurhuleni where a woman’s body was found near a cemetery. Gauteng provincial police commissioner Lieutenant-General Tommy Mthombeni said the woman appeared to have been killed with stones. A post-mortem examination is expected to establish the precise cause of death. Police said a man allegedly linked to that killing was arrested almost 400 kilometres away after leaving the area. His arrest brings to four the number of people currently in custody in connection with the series of killings. However, authorities have stressed that the cases have not been formally linked. Eight bodies found this month Despite the absence of an established connection between the cases, the number of deaths has attracted growing public attention. Eight of the 11 bodies were reportedly discovered during September alone. Police have said some of the victims were found partially or completely undressed, while some showed indications of sexual assault. Most of the other victims were women in their 20s and 30s. The circumstances surrounding each death remain subject to investigation, with forensic examinations expected to help investigators determine the causes of death and establish whether any links exist. Police have not identified a common suspect, motive or method connecting the cases. Authorities are therefore continuing to treat the investigations separately until evidence establishes otherwise. South Africa’s wider GBV crisis The deaths come against the backdrop of South Africa’s long-running struggle with gender-based violence and violence against women. The country has introduced various measures aimed at addressing the problem, including dedicated support services for victims and survivors. The Gender-Based Violence Command Centre has continued to receive large numbers of distress calls. Between September 1 and 16, the centre reportedly received 6 782 calls, an average of more than 400 calls a day. The figure represented a reported 21 percent increase compared with the same period in August. The Ekurhuleni cases have therefore intensified concerns among residents and community organisations about women's safety, particularly in isolated locations. For investigators, however, the immediate priority remains identifying the latest victim and establishing how she died. Police are expected to rely on post-mortem examinations, forensic evidence, witness accounts and other investigative leads as they work to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths. The arrest of a fourth suspect provides a potential breakthrough in one of the cases, but authorities have not indicated that the suspect is connected to the wider series. Until investigators establish such links, the 11 deaths remain separate cases. Meanwhile, families and communities continue to await answers about the identities and circumstances of the women who have died, as police work to establish what happened at each crime scene and bring those responsible to justice. Ekurhuleni women deaths

By Staff Reporter | Rabat Dozens of Moroccan mothers gathered outside Parliament in Rabat on Saturday, demanding the release of their children who remain detained following the “Gen Z 212” protest movement that swept several Moroccan cities in 2025. The mothers said their sons and other young people had spent months in detention and called on authorities to release those held in connection with the demonstrations. “We want all the children to be free and able to come out after one year; that’s enough. They’ve already lost a whole year of schooling, and this year as well,” said Ilham Negro, whose son is among those detained. The protests, which began in late September 2025, were driven largely by young Moroccans demanding improvements in healthcare, education, employment and public services. Demonstrators also raised concerns about corruption and government spending, particularly on major sporting infrastructure ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations. The movement, known as Gen Z 212, spread through several Moroccan cities and was organised largely through social media platforms. The demonstrations were initially peaceful in many locations but later included clashes and incidents of property damage in some areas, according to reports at the time. Hundreds of people were subsequently detained or prosecuted in connection with the protests. Those facing charges have included allegations relating to violence, damage to property, incitement and participation in unauthorised demonstrations. Human rights groups have raised concerns about the treatment of some detainees and called for due process and the protection of protesters’ rights. The mothers gathered in Rabat said the prolonged detention of young people was also affecting their education and future prospects. The demonstrations highlighted broader concerns over opportunities available to Morocco’s younger population. Official labour-market data showed particularly high unemployment among young people aged between 15 and 24 in 2025, with the youth unemployment rate significantly above the national unemployment rate. The protests also exposed tensions surrounding Morocco’s development priorities. While the country has invested heavily in infrastructure and preparations for major international sporting events, demonstrators argued that greater resources should be directed towards public services and employment opportunities. The Africa Cup of Nations, which Morocco hosted in December 2025 and January 2026, was a major focus of the debate, with protesters questioning spending on stadiums and other sporting infrastructure while highlighting shortages and pressures in sectors such as healthcare and education. For the families gathered outside Parliament, however, the immediate concern is the fate of those still behind bars. The mothers are calling for their children to be released and given an opportunity to resume their education and rebuild their lives after the protests. The government’s handling of the detainees remains a contentious issue, with authorities maintaining that prosecutions relate to alleged offences committed during the unrest, while rights advocates and families have called for greater scrutiny of the cases. Morocco Gen Z 212 protests

By Mpundu Valerie | Harare What began as a 28-day filmmaking challenge has grown into a story of resilience, recycling and ambition, with Tasimuka now seeking an international audience. Produced by Taurai Kawara under the Harare Sustainable City Initiative (HSCI), the short film premiered on July 28 and follows a family whose fortunes change dramatically after the loss of its main source of income. The film chronicles one family’s fall and rise, reliving moments of joy, pain, and agony as they navigate loss, abuse, and survival. Once a happy, well-to-do family, their lives changed when the sole breadwinner lost his job and turned to abuse as a coping mechanism. His wife and children: Tasimuka, Tafara, Zviko and Tongai bore the brunt. The violence escalated. The father eventually left the family following incidents of abuse. Evicted, they were forced into one room. As pressure mounted, Zviko fled home, believed to be seeking greener pastures in South Africa. In truth, she ended up on the streets, living rough and abusing drugs and other substances. With rent unpaid and options running out, Mai Tasimuka and her family were introduced to recycling by a friend. What began as survival became an enterprise. From recycling, they earned enough to buy a stand and build two rooms. At HSCI’s ICT center, the family’s world opened up. Tasimuka applied in response to an advert and was accepted to exhibit in Switzerland. There, she used recycled denim and waste material to create art and fashion. Commissioned by directors Ronnie Mubayisa and Cliff Chivhanga, Tasimuka was well-received at its premiere. "We were deliberating on a name and 'Tasimuka' had the much-needed impact," says the production team. "We needed to reach a broader audience, hence the film," the team adds. "It’s a short film, but we want to take it into a feature film." The production team is planning to take Tasimuka beyond Zimbabwe, with a proposed tour beginning in Sweden in October, followed by Switzerland, Australia and the United Kingdom. The filmmakers are also targeting 2027 for development of the story into a feature film. The cast includes Charity Dlodlo as Mai Tasimuka, Bongie Mthethwa as Tasimuka, Anthony Tongani as the estranged father and Sakarombe as the landlord, supported by an ensemble cast. While Tasimuka is built around one family's struggles, its message reaches beyond the characters. It brings together issues of domestic abuse, homelessness, substance abuse, recycling, entrepreneurship and the creative economy. More importantly, the film presents waste not simply as a problem to be removed, but as a potential resource that can be transformed into livelihoods, art and opportunity. For its creators, the journey from a 28-day production deadline to an international exhibition ambition is itself part of the Tasimuka story a story about turning difficult circumstances into possibilities. Tasimuka short film