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  • Armed Robbers Using ZRP Rifle Raid Westgate Orphanage, Steal Over US$30,000

    HARARE – Armed robbers wielding a rifle believed to belong to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) stormed a church-run orphanage in Westgate, Harare, on Sunday, making off with more than US$30,000 in a brazen attack that has heightened fears of a growing crime wave in the city’s western suburbs. The raid targeted the Village of Hope Institution, a facility that houses a school, an orphanage, and a church. The suspects reportedly spent close to an hour ransacking offices after overpowering security guards. Village of Hope director Richard Chimbetete (50) said three armed men attacked the premises and subdued security personnel before breaking into multiple offices. “Three armed men ransacked offices belonging to the institution, including those of the bishop, social workers, the director and finance, for nearly an hour before fleeing with cash,” he said. According to eyewitness accounts, one guard attempted to resist but was violently subdued. “They disarmed him, struck him several times with the butt of a rifle, handcuffed him and dragged him to a pump room where he was tied with electric cables,” said a staff member who requested anonymity. A second guard conducting patrols was also assaulted before the suspects moved deeper into the premises. Investigators say the robbers broke into several offices and stole cash kept in safes and cash boxes, including: US$25,000 from the director’s office US$2,500 from the Human Resources office US$1,200 from the bishop’s office Smaller amounts from finance and social services offices The total stolen exceeded US$30,000, according to preliminary police assessments. A church member who was praying during the incident also encountered the attackers. “One robber intercepted her and ordered her to lie down until they finished,” another source said. During the robbery, one of the suspects allegedly dropped a G3 rifle and two rounds of ammunition. Investigators believe the weapon had been stolen days earlier during an ambush on police officers in Mabelreign. Police sources say three officers were attacked along Northolt Road near Divaris Makaharis School in the early hours of April 10. “The attackers smashed the windscreen, assaulted the officers and grabbed the G3 rifle before fleeing,” a police memo seen by local media stated. The officers were later treated at Parirenyatwa Hospital. The same rifle was reportedly recovered at the Westgate crime scene, strengthening suspicions of a coordinated gang behind the attacks. The incident has raised alarm among residents in Westgate, Marlborough, and Mabelreign, where a spike in armed robberies has been reported in recent weeks. Ward 41 councillor Kudzai Kadzombe recently warned of a suspected gang linked to multiple robberies targeting churches and construction sites. “They have been responsible for a string of robberies… including the death of a security guard,” read a warning circulated in community WhatsApp groups. Residents have been urged not to confront suspects but to report any information to authorities. Security analysts say the use of a stolen police firearm signals a dangerous escalation. “When criminals gain access to state-issued weapons, it significantly raises the level of threat. It also points to organised criminal networks,” said Harare-based security expert Witness Dube. The case was reported at Marlborough Police Station, and investigations are ongoing as authorities intensify efforts to dismantle the suspected gang. Westgate robbery Harare

  • Curtain Call for a Television Legend: Zimbabwe Mourns Memory Bususu (1955–2026)

    KWEKWE  — Zimbabwe’s arts community is in mourning following the passing of veteran actress Memory Bususu, who died at the age of 71. A beloved household name for decades, Bususu passed away on Sunday, April 12, at Kwekwe General Hospital after suffering a stroke. The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) described her as a "versatile talent" whose performances in iconic dramas such as Paraffin, Pfuma Ye Nhaka, and Ngozi defined an era of Zimbabwean television. Her daughter, Rumbidzai Machingambi, confirmed that the actress had spent her final week in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). In recent years, Bususu had retired to her farm in Zhombe, Midlands Province, finding peace in the rural landscape after a storied career in the spotlight. Burial Arrangements: Date: Tuesday, April 14, 2026. Location: Buhera. Fellow actors and broadcasters expressed deep sadness at the loss of a peer known for her discipline and professionalism. Lovewell Chisango and Charity Dhlodhlo lauded her as a dedicated artist who mentored many in the industry. National Arts Council (NACZ): "Memory graced our screens in beloved series... her contribution to the cultural fabric of Zimbabwe is immeasurable." Memory Bususu was perhaps most famously remembered as "Mai Getty" in the legendary series Paraffin, where her chemistry with the late Baba Paraffin became the stuff of Zimbabwean television folklore. Her career spanned traditional dramas to modern cinema, including a role in the internationally acclaimed film "The Cook Off." Notable Filmography: Paraffin Pfuma Ye Nhaka Pedyo Kure Rujeko Ngozi The Cook Off On social media, the outpouring of grief was tinged with nostalgia. Fans recalled her as a "big sister" from the high-density suburbs like Highfield, while others quoted her famous lines. One fan reflected, "She was part of our childhood memories... watching her was a weekend ritual in the 90s." Memory Bususu actress death 2026

  • ‘Prophet’ and Accomplice in Court Over US$250K Harare Heist

    HARARE – A self-proclaimed prophet and his alleged accomplice have appeared in court following their arrest in connection with a high-value US$250 000 robbery that investigators say was carefully planned and executed with inside assistance. Learnmore Mirison (25) and Thomas Kanhu (31) were brought before Harare regional magistrate Jesse Kufa, where they were remanded in custody pending a bail hearing. The case has drawn attention for its alleged links to an insider and the scale of the theft. According to prosecutors, the duo worked with a third suspect, Obert Mirison, who was employed as a night guard at the premises targeted in the robbery. Authorities believe the guard provided critical access and information that enabled the suspects to bypass security undetected. The complainant, businessman Zhang Yung, had reportedly secured the cash in a safe inside a locked room earlier on the day of the incident. Investigators allege that under the cover of darkness, the suspects used keys taken from within the property to gain entry, remove the safe, and smuggle it out without raising suspicion, pointing to what police describe as a “well-coordinated inside job.” Court documents indicate that the suspects used multiple hired vehicles to move the safe across different locations in an attempt to evade detection. The safe was eventually taken to a secluded mountainous area in Eastview, where it was allegedly forced open. Prosecutors say the trio then divided the cash, with the security guard reportedly taking the largest share before going into hiding. Police have since launched a manhunt for the fugitive suspect. The theft came to light the following morning when the complainant noticed that keys were missing. After forcing entry into the secure room, he discovered that the safe had vanished and filed a report with the Zimbabwe Republic Police. Security experts say such cases highlight vulnerabilities in internal controls. “Most high-value thefts of this nature involve insider knowledge. Businesses must strengthen access control systems and conduct regular staff vetting,” said Harare-based security consultant Admire Chikobvu. Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) tracked down Mirison, who allegedly cooperated with authorities and led them to key evidence. Police recovered US$31 800 in cash from his residence, along with the stolen safe and a blanket believed to have been used during the heist. Kanhu was later arrested, and a search at his premises led to the recovery of US$25 700, an iPhone 16 Pro Max, and an unregistered Honda Shuttle suspected to have been purchased using proceeds from the robbery. Authorities say a total of US$70 600 has been recovered so far, while efforts continue to locate the third suspect and recover the remaining funds. Legal experts note that if convicted, the accused could face lengthy prison sentences under Zimbabwe’s criminal law for armed robbery and theft. The two men are expected back in court as investigations into the high-profile robbery continue, with police indicating that more arrests could follow. Harare robbery US$250000

  • Harare City Council Demolishes ‘Illegal’ Tuckshops at Mabelreign Shopping Centre

    HARARE – The Harare City Council on Saturday demolished a cluster of tuckshops at Mabelreign Shopping Centre, citing illegal construction and violation of urban planning regulations in a move that has reignited debate over informal trading spaces in the capital. Council bulldozers moved in early morning, flattening the near-complete structures and leaving debris scattered across land designated for parking. The demolition follows growing efforts by the city to enforce compliance with planning laws and restore order in commercial areas. Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume defended the action, saying the structures had been erected without approved building plans and did not meet the city’s urban development standards. “The reason why they were demolished is that there were no approved plans for the tuck-shops. It was on a place designated as a car park, and they were aesthetically not in keeping with a modern city,” Mafume told state media. The tuckshops were reportedly constructed under the direction of Ward 16 Councillor Denford Ngadziore, although council officials maintain that due process was not followed. The demolition comes amid intensified enforcement of by-laws governing informal trading and land use in Harare. According to the city’s planning regulations, all commercial structures must receive approval from both the Housing and Community Services Department and the Planning Committee before construction begins. Urban planning expert and University of Zimbabwe lecturer, Dr. Tawanda Chirisa, said the move reflects a broader challenge facing African cities. “There is always tension between formal urban planning and the realities of informal economies. However, unregulated developments can create long-term infrastructure problems, including congestion and reduced property values,” Chirisa said. Shop owners and residents in Mabelreign described the demolition as sudden and disruptive. “We just woke up to bulldozers tearing everything down. Some people had invested their savings here,” said local trader Miriam Dube. Another resident, who declined to be named, said the structures had become a vital source of income. “These tuckshops were going to help many families survive. The council should have engaged people first,” he said. The controversy follows the leak of Report No. 169 DHCS 2026, prepared by the Department of Housing and Community Services, which proposed a “temporary modern mixed-use market facility” at the site. Mayor Mafume clarified that the project had not received full approval. “What was approved was a desire to enter into a partnership. However, those approvals must go through the planning committee, which assesses suitability and compliance,” he said. City authorities argue that the demolition is part of a broader strategy to modernise Harare’s ageing shopping centres and enforce sustainable urban development. Mafume added that informal, makeshift structures undermine property values and compromise long-term city planning goals. Urban policy analysts say the incident highlights the urgent need for inclusive planning frameworks that balance economic survival with regulatory compliance. Harare City Council demolitions

  • Beitbridge Bottleneck: Travellers Stranded as ZIMRA Enforces New Import Regulations

    BEITBRIDGE  — The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has issued an urgent advisory following reports of chaos and significant delays at the Beitbridge Border Post. Images circulating on social media over the weekend showed families sleeping in the open and buses abandoned by their trailers, as tightened border processes left cross-border traders and malaicha  (transporters) stranded. The bottleneck follows the implementation of Statutory Instrument 59 of 2026, which has introduced stringent licensing requirements for a wide range of goods previously imported under flexible terms. In a move to manage expectations, ZIMRA reminded travellers that the personal travellers’ rebate is strictly capped at US$200 per person per calendar month. "The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority advises travellers and cross-border traders that border processes are being strengthened to improve efficiency and promote fair trade," the authority stated. Goods exceeding this limit, approximately R3,800 are subject to duty on the excess value. Furthermore, any bulk goods intended for resale are classified as commercial consignments and must be cleared in full, regardless of the rebate status. The delays are largely attributed to the Control of Goods (Import and Export) (Commerce) (Amendment) Regulations, 2026 (No. 15). This regulation requires a valid import license for specific goods to protect local manufacturers from an influx of cheaper foreign products. Impact on Travellers: Confiscated Goods: Travellers reported cartons and boxes being set aside for inspection, leading to significant wait times. Separation of Cargo: Buses have been seen leaving trailers on the Zimbabwean side to continue their journey while the cargo awaits clearance. Commercial Thresholds: Goods valued below US$1,000 (R19,000) can be processed at ZIMRA counters, but larger shipments require licensed clearing agents. ZIMRA Commissioner General Regina Chinamasa has encouraged the use of pre-clearance facilities to alleviate the pressure at the border. Accurate declarations remain the most effective way to avoid the "red tape" that has currently paralyzed the crossing. "To avoid delays, travellers are encouraged to declare goods accurately, engage licensed clearing agents where required, and utilise pre-clearance facilities before arrival," the ZIMRA advisory concluded. Beitbridge Border Post delays 2026

  • Malaria Crisis: Mashonaland West Outbreak Claims 20 Lives as Infections Pass 5,000

    CHINHOYI  — A severe malaria outbreak in Mashonaland West Province has claimed 20 lives and infected over 5,087 people since the start of the year. According to the latest provincial health situation report, the outbreak has now spread across all seven districts, even as the traditional rainy season begins to taper off. While transmission remains high, the status of the outbreak varies by district. Health authorities have categorized the districts into two distinct management phases: Under Control: Kariba, Hurungwe, Makonde, and Sanyati. Elimination Phase: Mhondoro Ngezi, Chegutu, and Zvimba. In a single 24-hour window, the province recorded 64 new infections, with Hurungwe (23 cases) and Sanyati (19 cases) emerging as the most significant current hotspots. The report highlights a worrying trend regarding vulnerable populations. Of the most recent daily infections, seven cases were recorded in children under five, and four cases involved pregnant women. Public health expert Johannes Marisa warned that the high fatality rate is being driven by a critical lack of urgency in seeking medical attention. "Delays in malaria diagnosis are contributing to the high death rate, increasing the likelihood of fatalities," Marisa stated. Health teams have been deployed to intensify surveillance and active case detection. However, these efforts are being hampered by a critical supply chain failure. Authorities have confirmed that insecticide-treated mosquito nets are currently out of stock in all targeted districts, though procurement is reportedly underway. With the peak transmission season typically running until June, officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and seek immediate treatment for symptoms to prevent further loss of life. Mashonaland West malaria outbreak 2026

  • "Refining, Not Replacing": Charamba Defends Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3

    HARARE  — Presidential spokesperson George Charamba has stepped forward to mount a robust defense of the proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3), dismissing critics’ fears as "exaggerated" and "misleading." In a wide-ranging interview, Charamba sought to frame the legislation as a routine governance exercise rather than the fundamental overhaul described by opposition parties and civil society. He emphasized that the process is about refining specific provisions to align with the country's evolving political and social realities. Charamba rejected the narrative that the amendment threatens Zimbabwe’s constitutional order. Tracing the nation’s legal history, he argued that constitutions are living documents that must remain flexible. "Constitutions are not fixed documents," Charamba noted, pointing out that this is the third such amendment since the 2013 Constitution was adopted. He described the changes as "constructive reforms" intended to stabilize the nation’s political landscape. One of the most contentious points of the Bill is the proposal to move away from the direct popular election of the President. Under CAB3, the President would be elected by a joint sitting of Parliament (the Senate and the National Assembly). Charamba’s defense included: Historical Precedent: He reminded critics that Zimbabwe has previously utilized systems where the President was not directly elected. Reducing "Toxicity": The government argues that parliamentary selection will reduce the "toxicity" often associated with general election cycles. Efficiency: Framed as a modernization measure, the shift is intended to focus national energy on economic development rather than perpetual campaigning. Addressing the outcry over the brevity of public hearings, Charamba maintained that the process remains democratic and inclusive. He highlighted that the Bill originated from grassroots proposals and has moved through the proper legislative channels, including Cabinet and Parliament. While the Constitutional Defenders Forum (CDF) has challenged the timeline in court, Charamba noted that the consultation window has been extended to ensure citizens have a defined opportunity to contribute their views before Parliament makes a final decision. Proposed Key Changes at a Glance Feature Current (2013 Constitution) Proposed (Amendment No. 3) Presidential Election Direct popular vote Joint sitting of Parliament Term Length 5 years 7 years Senate Size 80 members 90 members (10 Presidential appointees) Voter Roll Managed by ZEC Managed by Registrar-General As the public consultation stage continues, the government maintains that CAB3 is a modernization effort designed to safeguard national stability and support Vision 2030 goals. George Charamba Constitutional Amendment Bill No 3 This video provides a direct record of George Charamba’s comments regarding the mutability of constitutions and his justification for the proposed amendments.

  • War Veterans’ Welfare Crisis: ZNLWVA Alarms Over Rising Deaths and Government Neglect

    HARARE  — The Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) has sounded a grave alarm over a sharp increase in deaths among ex-combatants, citing systemic neglect, chronic poverty, and a lack of medical funding as the primary drivers of the crisis. The concerns were raised during a weekend gathering celebrating the elevation of Paul Tungwarara to the ZANU-PF central committee, where the rate of mortality among the nation’s liberation-era fighters was described as "alarming". Douglas Mahiya, the ZANU PF national secretary for war veterans, addressed the gathering with a plea for urgent intervention, noting that the deaths extend beyond former fighters to include collaborators, ex-detainees, and restrictees. The trend has claimed the lives of dozens of veterans in recent years, including high-ranking serving and retired generals, many of whom were instrumental in the 2017 "military-assisted transition". In a subsequent interview, ZNLWVA Secretary-General Sam Parirenyatwa criticized the government for "turning a blind eye" to the medical predicament of those who secured Zimbabwe's independence. Key grievances cited by the association include: Zero Medical Funding: A reported lack of medication funding from the Treasury to the Ministry responsible for veterans' affairs. Unanswered Engagement: Repeated attempts to engage the government on welfare issues have reportedly gone unacknowledged. Home-Based Deaths: Many veterans are allegedly dying at home because they cannot afford or access professional medical support. Parirenyatwa further highlighted the invisible scars of the liberation war, stating that many veterans suffer from untreated post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These mental health challenges are being compounded by acute poverty and a sense of social abandonment, leading to what the association describes as the nation "forsaking its gallant fighters". As the vanguard of the liberation struggle ages, the ZNLWVA’s warning serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for a robust social safety net for those who shaped the country's history. Zimbabwe war veterans deaths 2026

  • Caretaker Accused of Seizing Employer’s Rural Home Sparks Dispute in Mutasa Community Court

    HARARE – A Marondera-based man has approached a traditional court after allegedly losing control of his rural homestead to a caretaker he had employed and allowed to live on the property rent-free. The dispute, now before Chief Mutasa’s Community Court, involves Samuel Nyambudzi and his former house help, Shelton Toro, whom he accuses of unlawfully taking over the property. Nyambudzi told the court that he hired Toro as a caretaker to safeguard his rural home while he lived and worked in Marondera with his family. “I told him that he would stay just like my son. His duty was simply to be a caretaker,” Nyambudzi said. He added that Toro was allowed to stay on the property rent-free and was later given an allowance for upkeep. However, the relationship reportedly deteriorated after Toro’s dismissal. “He now denies me access to my home. I went there last Tuesday, and he locked me out as if I were an intruder,” Nyambudzi told the court. “For five days, I could not sleep in my own home.” The dispute has also affected Nyambudzi’s son, John Nyambudzi, who had been tasked with overseeing projects at the rural homestead. “My father instructed me to take charge of our rural home. I started a banana plantation project there, but everything has changed,” he said. “He no longer listens to us. He walks around with the keys and acts as if we are working for him. He will not let us work on our own land.” Toro, however, dismissed the accusations, maintaining that he had not barred the family from accessing the property. “I never chased him away,” he said. “Yes, I lock the door, but everyone has their own key. He should be able to unlock it with his key.” He also reportedly claimed that he was owed money, an assertion Nyambudzi disputes. Presiding over the matter, Chief Mutasa expressed concern over the breakdown of trust between the parties. “This is a situation that can escalate if not addressed properly,” the chief said. In a preliminary ruling, the court directed the Nyambudzi family to reclaim control of their property by retrieving the house keys and restoring full access. The court also instructed that Toro be paid any outstanding dues, if applicable, to prevent further grievances. Chief Mutasa said the matter remains unresolved and will require further investigation to determine the root cause of the conflict. Legal analyst Farai Zhou said such disputes are becoming increasingly common in rural Zimbabwe. “In informal employment arrangements, especially involving caretakers, the absence of written agreements often leads to disputes over rights and obligations,” he said. Cases involving caretaker disputes and informal occupancy arrangements have been on the rise, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas where property management is often entrusted to individuals without formal contracts. Experts warn that property owners should formalise agreements to avoid misunderstandings that can escalate into legal or traditional court battles. As the case continues, the outcome could set an important precedent for similar disputes being handled in traditional courts across Zimbabwe. caretaker dispute Zimbabwe

  • CDF Challenges Constitutional Amendment Consultations: Claims of Intimidation and "Woefully Inadequate" Timeline

    HARARE  — A prominent Zimbabwean advocacy group, the Constitutional Defenders Forum (CDF), has launched a formal legal challenge against the Parliament of Zimbabwe, alleging that the public consultation process for Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3) was fundamentally flawed. Represented by human rights lawyers from the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), the CDF has petitioned Speaker of Parliament Jacob Mudenda, demanding an immediate extension of the outreach program. The group argues that the current process has denied citizens their constitutional right to meaningful participation. The core of the legal challenge rests on the brevity of the hearings. The CDF contends that the four-day window—held between March 30 and April 2—was "woefully inadequate" for a bill that proposes "far-reaching and drastic changes" to the nation’s constitutional order. The legal team pointed out that: Parliament chose to compress hearings into a few days despite a constitutionally permissible 90-day window that does not lapse until May 2026. The short timeframe effectively silenced millions of Zimbabweans who were not afforded a reasonable opportunity to express their views. Beyond the calendar, the petition highlights significant logistical disparities. In Masvingo province, for instance, only seven hearings were conducted to cover 26 constituencies, leading to overcrowding and the exclusion of many rural voices. The CDF argues this structure undermined the principle of equal participation across provinces. Most concerning are the reports of a "chilling effect" caused by political interference and physical assaults during the hearings: Harare: Human rights lawyer Douglas Coltart was allegedly assaulted during a session. Bulawayo: Reports surfaced of attacks on students, including the alleged abduction of Keegan Mathe following an assault. Gweru: Opposition politician Amos Chibaya was reportedly heckled and threatened while attempting to raise objections regarding provisions for traditional leadership. The CDF further claims that sessions were "choreographed" to suppress dissent, with legal experts and prominent critics allegedly blocked from speaking. The Forum is calling on Speaker Mudenda to reconvene the process under stricter safeguards to ensure security and inclusivity. As the debate over CAB3 intensifies, this legal challenge places the Parliament of Zimbabwe under significant scrutiny regarding its commitment to constitutional accountability and public engagement. Constitutional Amendment Bill No 3 Zimbabwe

  • ZRP Warns Activist Over Alleged Fake Police Statement on Planned Protest

    HARARE  — The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has issued a warning to social media activist Majaira Jairos over what it describes as the fabrication and circulation of a fake police statement linked to a planned demonstration on 15 April 2026. In a statement released on Monday, 13 April, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi dismissed claims that the police had endorsed what was described as a “peaceful” march. “The ZRP unequivocally dismisses a fake press statement and misinformation by a social media activist, Majaira Jairos, that the Police is supporting what he calls a ‘peaceful’ march or demonstration on 15/04/26,” said Nyathi. He warned that any attempts to produce and distribute false statements attributed to the police would result in legal consequences. “The Police warns Majaira Jairos and his associates that any attempts to craft fake press statements and attribute them to ZRP will result in the law taking its course without fear or favour,” he added. The warning follows the circulation of a statement on social media purportedly issued by the ZRP, which indicated that police were aware of planned protests and had put measures in place to ensure public safety. The statement also appeared to affirm citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful protest, while cautioning against acts of violence or disorder. However, authorities insist the statement is not authentic and was not issued by the police. The development comes amid heightened public attention around the planned 15 April demonstrations, with authorities reiterating their position on maintaining law and order. While the ZRP acknowledged constitutional rights to expression and assembly, it stressed that any unlawful conduct would be dealt with in accordance with the law. Police have not provided further details on security arrangements but indicated they remain alert to developments surrounding the planned protests. ZRP fake statement

  • Harare Sewage Crisis Deepens, Raising Fears of Cholera Outbreak in High-Density Suburbs

    HARARE – The City of Harare is facing mounting pressure as an escalating sewage crisis threatens to trigger a potential cholera outbreak in several high-density suburbs, with residents reporting prolonged exposure to raw sewage and deteriorating sanitation conditions. Communities in Glen View, Kambuzuma, Mufakose, and Mbare say burst sewer systems have gone unattended for weeks, with some blockages reportedly unresolved for up to three weeks. The crisis is most acute in Glen View, where the Combined Harare Residents Association (CHRA) says conditions have reached critical levels. CHRA director Reuben Akili warned that residents are now facing serious health risks due to the local authority’s slow response. “We are worried about the lack of responsiveness of the local authority in addressing sewer bursts in Glen View,” he said. Residents report that overflowing sewage has flooded streets and residential yards, with some households unable to use their toilets. “We are now forced to find alternatives because the system is no longer working,” said a Glen View resident who requested anonymity. “Children are playing near contaminated water, and it’s dangerous.” Civic groups say the worsening situation has pushed some households into unsafe sanitation practices, including open defecation, heightening the risk of disease outbreaks. The Harare Residents Trust (HRT) described the crisis as a result of systemic infrastructure failure and long-term neglect. HRT director Precious Shumba said the city’s ageing sewer systems are no longer able to cope with population growth. “Decades-old infrastructure has not been upgraded to meet current demand, and the situation is being worsened by unplanned urban expansion,” he said. Public health experts warn that the continued exposure to untreated sewage could trigger a cholera outbreak if urgent intervention is not undertaken. Zimbabwe has a history of cholera epidemics linked to water and sanitation failures, including the devastating 2008–2009 Zimbabwe cholera outbreak, which resulted in thousands of deaths, with Harare at the epicentre. Dr Nyasha Moyo, a public health specialist, said the current conditions mirror early warning signs of previous outbreaks. “When sewer systems collapse, the risk of water contamination increases significantly. Without rapid response, this can quickly escalate into a public health emergency,” she said. The City of Harare has acknowledged the crisis, with spokesperson Stanley Gama confirming that technical teams have been deployed to affected areas. However, he urged residents to avoid dumping waste into sewer systems. “Blockages are being worsened by improper disposal of litter into sewer lines,” Gama said. Despite the city’s response, residents and advocacy groups say efforts remain inadequate given the scale of the crisis. Urban planning expert Engineer Tawanda Zhou said immediate and long-term measures are required. “The city needs emergency repairs, but also a complete overhaul of its sewer infrastructure. Without that, these crises will keep recurring,” he said. As pressure mounts, residents warn that unless decisive action is taken, Harare could be on the brink of another major public health disaster. Harare sewage crisis

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