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Chinhoyi councillors clash over unpaid travel allowances ( image source ) A routine review of travel allowances in the Chinhoyi Municipality council chambers  on 17 September descended into chaos when Ward 8 Councillor David Malunga  demanded reimbursement from colleagues who claimed “own use” subsistence allowances but failed to undertake authorized trips, sparking heated exchanges and an alleged assault. During the “look and learn” programme debrief —which funded a visit to Victoria Falls—Malunga asked councillors who did not use their vehicles to return the US $200-per-day allowances . Councillors heatedly refused, calling the matter “water under the bridge.”  Tensions escalated when Malunga was escorted out of the chamber by Councillor Godfrey Muzhandamure ; outside, Malunga alleges Muzhandamure struck him, prompting a police complaint under RRB 6557353  at Chinhoyi Central Police Station. “We all signed for the money. I never assaulted him—he’s too talkative. We exchanged harsh words over an issue that should have been resolved months ago.” – Councillor Godfrey Muzhandamure Council records show Malunga had earlier flagged similar abuses in May 2025, when Ignatius Zvigadza (Ward 4)  reportedly pocketed US $1,000  for a Saudi Arabia conference and never traveled or repaid the advance. The municipality’s finance director, Zephaniah Chirarwe , estimates it would take 13 months  to recover Zvigadza’s funds via monthly deductions—a clear breach of the Accounting Procedure Manual’s 30-day reimbursement rule . Acting chamber secretary Hilda Kabangure  admitted policy lapses. “Advances must be reclaimed within 30 days,”  she told NewsDay , acknowledging that hundreds of dollars remain unrecouped from both sanctioned and unsanctioned trips. Combined Chinhoyi Residents Trust chairperson Tendayi Musonza  warned that prolonged silence on these discrepancies undermines public confidence. “How can residents trust an audit system when the audit committee chairperson is embroiled in scandal?” – Tendayi Musonza, CCDRT Policy Breaches and Budget Impact Under Chinhoyi’s policy, councillors qualify for a daily subsistence allowance when traveling on official business, with vehicle usage allowances capped at US $150 per day . Trips must be approved by the town clerk and supported with travel logs and mileage reports. Any unspent advances must be refunded within 30 days. However, a 2024 finance committee report  warned of lax enforcement  and recommended tighter controls and audits—steps that remain unimplemented. Chinhoyi’s US $2 million annual administrative budget  allocates about US $120,000  for councillor subsistence. Transparency advocates argue that unchecked claims drain scarce municipal resources and hinder service delivery. “Every dollar misused is a pothole unfixed or a clinic left underfunded.” – Dr Maria Nkombo, Public-Sector Economist, University of Zimbabwe Broader Governance Concerns The allowances scandal compounds Chinhoyi’s governance woes, which already include stalled water projects  and overgrown graveyards . With the 2026 local elections  approaching, critics say ruling parties risk voter backlash unless strict accountability measures are enforced. The town clerk  has convened a finance committee hearing on 22 September  to audit all travel advances since January 2025 and recommend recoveries or write-offs. Meanwhile, Chinhoyi Central Police  is investigating the assault claim, while the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC)  monitors the financial irregularities.

More than 20 artists led by Brian Eno raised millions for Gaza relief ( image source ) More than 20 international artists united at London’s Wembley Arena on 17 September for Together for Palestine , a landmark benefit concert that raised millions in humanitarian aid for Gaza while amplifying global calls for a ceasefire. Curated by legendary producer and activist Brian Eno, the sold-out 12,500-capacity event featured performers such as Damon Albarn, Bastille, Rina Sawayama, and Jamie xx alongside Palestinian musicians Adnan Joubran, Faraj Suleiman, and Elyanna. Organisers confirmed that 100 percent of ticket revenue, excluding fees, will go directly to Gaza relief efforts. Eno framed the event as both cultural and political. “In a world where governments and mainstream media have fallen silent, artists must unite,” he wrote in the concert manifesto, published by Huck Magazine. Josie Fernandez Marelli, CEO of UK charity Choose Love —which will distribute funds through Palestinian partners like Taawon and the Palestinian Medical Relief Society—described the concert as a lifeline: “Silence becomes complicity. Every note played tonight is an act of resistance.” Crowds witnessed a charged atmosphere, with UK neo-soul blending into Palestinian folk before a finale that saw Albarn and Sawayama debut a new protest anthem. Between songs, Elyanna reminded fans: “Our voices will not be silenced. This is for the children of Gaza.” The concert was streamed live on Brian Eno’s YouTube channel, offering access in Arabic, English, and French subtitles. Organisers estimate hundreds of thousands tuned in globally, multiplying the event’s impact. QR codes in the arena linked to ceasefire petitions, while projections displayed real-time casualty figures from Gaza, where civilian deaths have surpassed 25,000 since October 2023. Producer Khaled Ziada told The Guardian:“Music is our megaphone. Tonight, we amplify calls for justice beyond borders.” Beyond ticket sales, industry analysts say the concert’s fundraising model could generate an additional US $2 million from branded merchandise, livestream donations, and SMS contributions. Donors were encouraged to text “PALESTINE” to 70705, with proceeds directed to Gaza through Choose Love. Events of this scale underscore the growing economic role of artist-led humanitarian efforts, where cultural capital translates directly into aid funding. As one aid worker said: “This isn’t just activism—it’s an alternative financing mechanism in a time when state aid flows are shrinking.” The Wembley concert follows a decade of artist-led solidarity actions, though none have reached this scale. Past efforts, like New York’s 2016 Gaza Relief Rally, raised under US $1 million. Eno’s stature, Wembley’s capacity, and digital livestreaming set a new precedent. In Zimbabwe, discussions at the Hub Unconference in Harare earlier this month highlighted rising digital censorship of pro-Palestinian content, adding urgency to initiatives where artists reclaim visibility on global platforms. Enhanced security surrounded the Wembley event due to its political nature. Amnesty International staffed information kiosks outside, engaging fans on human rights issues. Analysts note that such events, while symbolic, also carry risks of backlash from pro-Israel groups and political actors wary of cultural boycotts. Organisers will publish a full impact report in November, detailing distribution of funds, partner accountability, and projected outcomes in Gaza. As solidarity echoed through Wembley’s stadium walls and livestream screens worldwide, Together for Palestine  demonstrated the economic, cultural, and political power of music. For Eno and the artists involved, the concert was not just a fundraiser but a declaration: art can mobilise millions against injustice.

Zimbabwe’s National Sports Stadium rehabilitation is nearly complete ( Image Source ) The rehabilitation of Harare’s National Sports Stadium  is now in its final phase, with bucket seats, turnstiles and water-reticulation works almost complete, Sport Minister Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe  announced on 13 September. The government is racing to ready Zimbabwe’s flagship venue ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers. Sanyatwe confirmed that 98 percent of the 60,000 bucket seats  have been installed, while electronic turnstiles and entry gates are 95 percent fitted . The pitch has undergone a total overhaul, including modern drainage and irrigation systems . With grass seeding already underway, the surface is expected to be match-ready by late November . A 505,000-litre water reservoir  has also been rehabilitated to support maintenance. “The pitch has been totally revamped with modern drainage and irrigation—this will end years of match postponements,”  Sanyatwe said. Closed to international fixtures since 2021 after CAF flagged non-compliance, the stadium’s upgrades also include LED floodlights  sourced from South Africa, a nearly complete generator house (90%) , and the demolition of outdated ablution blocks (99% complete). Dressing rooms, doping-control areas and media facilities are being redesigned to meet global event standards . However, Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube’s Mid-term Budget Review  in August highlighted delays—then noting turf works were only at 40 percent. Analysts warn that any further slippage could force Zimbabwe’s national football team to host home games abroad again, adding logistical and financial strains . A Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) official told reporters: “We’re monitoring each milestone. If the grass fails to establish by November, we’ll have to secure alternate venues in South Africa, adding travel burdens for players and supporters.” Economic and Sporting Stakes The stadium overhaul, backed by a US $12 million package  from government funds and a CAF solidarity loan, is expected to restore annual match-day revenue of around US $2 million . Harare hoteliers already report a 30 percent rise in advance bookings  for October and November, while local businesses anticipate a significant boost from tourism and hospitality. Sports economist Dr. Rita Chikema emphasised the broader impact: “Stadium readiness is crucial not just for national pride but for fiscal multipliers—ticket sales, advertising and vendor income ripple through the economy.” Inaugurated in 1987 for the All-Africa Games, the stadium fell into disrepair after decades of underfunding. CAF’s 2024 inspection warned Zimbabwe risked losing its home-ground advantage permanently without urgent reform. The refurbishment campaign launched in early 2025 under a memorandum of understanding  between the Ministry of Sport, the Ministry of Finance and ZIFA. Upcoming priorities include turf seeding, testing the LED floodlights, and completing gate integrations by 15 October . A final FIFA and CAF inspection  is scheduled for 1 December . If timelines hold, Zimbabwe will welcome international football back to Harare for its 2026 World Cup qualifiers  against Benin and Rwanda, marking the stadium’s long-awaited return as the country’s sporting hub.

Sakubva and Chipinge Hospitals record zero maternal deaths in Q3 2025 ( image source ) Sakubva District Hospital in Mutare  and Chipinge District Hospital  have recorded zero maternal deaths  in the third quarter of 2025—a first for both facilities. Hospital officials attribute the milestone to targeted training, strengthened emergency-response systems and improved antenatal bookings , marking a breakthrough in Zimbabwe’s fight against maternal mortality. According to Mutare District Medical Officer Dr David Muchirewese , Sakubva registered just one maternal death in 2024 compared to five the year before. Between July and September 2025, the hospital managed 1,392 deliveries —including 21 emergencies—and attended to all complications within 30 minutes of call-out , ensuring a 100 percent survival rate  for high-risk cases. “Identifying high-risk mothers early and acting swiftly saved lives,” – Dr David Muchirewese, District Medical Officer Mutare’s success builds on quarterly IMNC training  (Images of Maternal and Neonatal Care) rolled out since 2023. The programme equips nurses and midwives with ultrasound interpretation, haemorrhage control and neonatal resuscitation skills. “We now detect placenta previa and eclampsia within minutes,”  said Sister Patel , head of obstetrics. In Chipinge, District Medical Officer Dr Ozimmo Matekenya  reported parallel improvements. With 850 deliveries monthly  and 178 caesarean sections in August alone , the hospital’s early antenatal booking rate has risen to 72 percent —up from 54 percent in 2023. “Expectant mothers are more engaged. They know that booking early means safer outcomes,”  Matekenya said. National Trends and Challenges According to the Ministry of Health, Zimbabwe’s maternal deaths fell from 597 in 2022 to 412 in 2024 , a 31 percent decline . However, the numbers remain above the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target  of 70 per 100,000 live births . Health Minister Dr Chipo Dembedza-Dhiraj stressed the need to scale up district-level strategies. “Our next focus is community outreach and transport support to remote clinics,” she said. The 2023–24 Demographic and Health Survey  placed Zimbabwe’s institutional maternal mortality ratio at 363 per 100,000 , down from 462 in 2015. The Urban Voucher Programme , funded by the World Bank’s Global Financing Facility, has linked 80,000 pregnant women  to antenatal care, supporting 35,000 safe deliveries  in high-density suburbs. Despite progress, the WHO warns  that two-thirds of rural health centres lack obstetric theatres, forcing referrals to district hospitals. Such delayed transfers contribute to nearly 20 percent  of remaining maternal deaths. The Health Sector Development Support Project  aims to equip 18 rural clinics  with emergency obstetric kits by the end of 2025. Community-Driven Solutions Grassroots initiatives are also making an impact. In Sakubva, the “Safe Motherhood Village” programme links community health workers with ambulance drivers, guaranteeing 24-hour pickup services. “No mother walks alone,” said coordinator Evelyn Zuma. In Chipinge, faith-based organisations have introduced door-to-door maternal education, boosting antenatal class attendance by 40 percent . The Ministry of Health will host a national summit on 5 October  to share best practices and secure funding for rural theatre expansion. As Sakubva and Chipinge celebrate zero maternal deaths , health stakeholders say the milestone proves that targeted investment and community engagement  can shift one of Africa’s most persistent health challenges.

The US Senate has introduced a bill targeting South Africa with sanctions and AGOA termination ( Image Source ) The US Senate has tabled the US-South Africa Bilateral Relations Review Act , escalating tensions between Washington and Pretoria with proposed sanctions and a possible end to South Africa’s trade benefits under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) . Filed on 15 September  by Senator John Kennedy (R-Louisiana) , the bill echoes an earlier House measure but adds explicit conditions for South Africa’s removal from AGOA  if President Biden determines Pretoria undermines US national security through ties with Russia, China, or anti-Israel positions. Kennedy referenced South Africa’s recent joint naval drills with Russia, docking permissions for sanctioned vessels, and controversial statements by ANC officials targeting US leadership. “America’s foreign policy must put its interests first. This bill holds South Africa accountable and ensures our relationship is serving US national security—not undermining it,” Kennedy said. Analysts warn the move could destabilise economic relations. Political commentator Joel Pollak  told BizNews that bills in both chambers show “growing bipartisan frustration” with Pretoria, making substantive action increasingly likely. South Africa exported US $4.3 billion  in AGOA-eligible goods to the US in 2024—about 15% of its total exports . Removal from AGOA could mean tariffs of up to 35%  on key sectors such as textiles, autos, and agriculture, threatening 120,000 jobs . Business group Agbiz  cautioned that exporters would face cost hikes of up to 25% per container  if forced to reroute trade to Asia or Africa. The House version, H.R. 2633  led by Rep. Ronnie Jackson, advanced through subcommittee review in June but stalled in full committee. Kennedy’s Senate bill now heads to the Foreign Relations Committee , with hearings expected in October . For passage, both chambers must reconcile identical texts before presidential approval. Meanwhile, Trade Minister Ebrahim Patel  is set to lobby US lawmakers on an upcoming mission to Washington, hoping to mitigate fallout through diplomatic outreach and private-sector pressure. Observers say the outcome will test Pretoria’s balancing act between its traditional partners and its growing alignment with Russia and China. As October approaches, the battle over AGOA has become a defining moment in US-South Africa relations , with billions in trade and thousands of jobs at stake.

ZIMRA probes a $20m hacking syndicate that manipulated customs accounts ( image source ) The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) is investigating a sophisticated hacking syndicate that manipulated its customs system to create so-called “miracle” cash deposits. The scheme enabled the clearance of millions of dollars’ worth of imported goods before detection. According to online reports, the scam ran between January and September 2025, with insiders crediting false balances to clearing agents’ prepaid duty accounts. Using these inflated accounts, more than 120 shipping companies released vehicles, textiles, groceries, and other goods duty-free. Investigators estimate losses at more than US$20 million, with agents reportedly paying hackers a 20 percent commission on each transaction. How the Scam Worked Sources say former ZIMRA IT staff, allegedly based at Beitbridge Border Post,  manipulated the Asycuda World customs system—a platform designed by UNCTAD to streamline trade facilitation. The hackers generated fictitious US-dollar credits that appeared as legitimate deposits in duty accounts. Once the system showed sufficient funds, consignments were cleared without payment. Affected accounts were later drained or deactivated, leaving ZIMRA with a paper trail of duties that never reached the Treasury. “This was an inside job exploiting porous digital controls,” said a cleared-bond operator in Beitbridge. A senior ZIMRA official confirmed that the breach was contained once automated alerts flagged abnormal account activity. “We deactivated compromised user profiles, launched criminal proceedings, and closed suspect bonds immediately,”  the official said. Economic Impact ZIMRA plays a pivotal role in Zimbabwe’s economy, collecting more than US$4 billion annually—around 35 percent of the national budget, according to the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency. Fraud of this magnitude raises concerns over both fiscal stability and the credibility of customs reforms. “Investment hinges on secure, transparent systems. This scandal could deter foreign investors who rely on efficient trade corridors and predictable customs processes,” said an economist with the University of Zimbabwe. Trade analysts warn that reputational damage may also extend to regional corridors. Beitbridge, Zimbabwe’s busiest border crossing, handles the bulk of traffic along the North-South Corridor,  linking South Africa to the rest of the continent. Disruptions at Beitbridge ripple across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) trade network. Accountability and Reform The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has deployed investigators to Beitbridge to interview former IT employees, customs agents, and freight forwarders. In Harare, ZIMRA chairperson George Guvamatanga  sought to reassure legislators, telling Parliament that taxpayer data remained secure and routine services were not disrupted. Observers say the probe will test government resolve in tackling entrenched corruption within state revenue systems. Past ZIMRA investigations have sometimes stalled, leading to public skepticism about enforcement. Zimbabwe adopted Asycuda World  in 2019, reducing average clearance times from 72 hours to 24 hours. Yet audits have repeatedly flagged cyber-security vulnerabilities. A 2024 internal review, cited in Parliament, recommended multi-factor authentication, periodic penetration testing, and stricter segregation of IT duties. Budgetary constraints delayed full implementation. “Modern customs systems are magnets for hackers because billions pass through them annually. Failure to ring-fence them is like leaving a bank vault unlocked,” warned South African cyber-security consultant Andre Van Zyl. What Comes Next Parliament’s Budget and Finance Committee is expected to debate additional IT-security allocations in October. Lawmakers have signaled they will press ZIMRA to demonstrate progress on implementing past audit recommendations. The outcome of ongoing criminal proceedings will also be closely watched. Analysts argue that indictments, successful prosecutions, and asset forfeitures will serve as the clearest test of Zimbabwe’s seriousness about combating systemic fraud.

Scottish Borders Council launches fresh eviction proceedings against the “Kingdom of Kubala” ( Image source ) Scottish Borders Council has launched fresh court proceedings to evict three members of the self-styled “Kingdom of Kubala”  from woodland near Jedburgh, following their removal from private land and immediate relocation onto council property. A sheriff issued the second eviction warrant on 16 September after Ghanaian Kofi Offeh (36) , Zimbabwean-born Jean Gasho (43) , and American Kaura Taylor —who style themselves as King Atehene, Queen Nandi, and Asnat the handmaiden—set up camp on council-owned land just metres from their previous encampment. The group claims they are reclaiming territory “stolen from our ancestors 400 years ago.” Council Response Deputy council leader Scott Hamilton  confirmed legal action in a statement posted on social media: “The individuals complied with the court order by vacating private land, then moved to our property. As this location is council-owned, we have commenced eviction proceedings in the interests of public safety. Nobody is above the law, and we will not cease.” Council officers, supported by Police Scotland, first removed the trio from private woodland on 16 September. Within hours, the group climbed a wire fence onto adjacent council land and rebuilt their tents. Hamilton said officers “rebuffed every opportunity to engage” and must now return to Jedburgh Sheriff Court  to enforce the new eviction order. Legal and Financial Penalties Witnesses report no violence during the second removal, but tensions remain high. A council legal adviser warns the group faces fines of up to £1,000 per day  under the Trespass (Scotland) Act , plus legal costs. Offeh told BBC Scotland that he “commands” the land in the name of Kubala and will resist all attempts to oust him. The group declines interviews, stating they speak only to “those who bring gifts.” Origins of the “Kingdom” The Kingdom of Kubala emerged in spring 2025 when the trio first settled on privately owned woodland above Jedburgh. They claimed ancestral Highland lands, prompting an eviction notice on 8 September. Sheriff Peter Paterson  granted a removal order that same day, leading to their initial expulsion. Within a week, they re-established camp—first on private land, then on council property—each time triggering new legal actions. Authorities offered housing, welfare support and mediation, but say the group refused all assistance. Mental-health experts have raised concerns about their well-being, noting that Taylor was reported missing in the US prior to joining the “tribe.” Wider Implications The case highlights scant protections for councils when trespassers exploit adjacent parcels of land. Jedburgh councillor Eleanor McGregor  warned that unchecked “move-and-remain” tactics could inspire other itinerant groups to sidestep eviction orders simply by shifting across property lines. “This is not just about one camp; it’s about upholding the rule of law,” McGregor said. Local businesses also fear prolonged legal battles could tarnish Jedburgh’s tourism reputation. Bed-and-breakfast owners reported cancellations after the initial eviction was publicised online, while foot-traffic to nearby attractions dropped by 15 percent , according to the Jedburgh Chamber of Commerce. Next Steps Scottish Borders Council has filed a petition for interdict and enforcement  of the newly issued eviction warrant. A hearing is scheduled for 22 September at Jedburgh Sheriff Court. If the group fails to vacate, bailiffs will be authorised to dismantle structures and seize belongings. The council also seeks a civil penalty against any aid stations allegedly set up to sustain the camp. As Judge Paterson considers the petition, all eyes are on Jedburgh—where a dispute over woodland has become a flashpoint for debates on ancestral claims, local governance and the limits of trespass law.

Harare hosts the 11th Hub Unconference ( Image Source ) Harare Gardens will this week pulse with digital activism as the 11th annual Hub Unconference  convenes on 24–25 September under the banner “Decolonise the Internet.”  The event unites more than 30 speakers from seven African countries to challenge Western biases in online spaces and reclaim digital narratives for the continent. The Hub Unconference—Zimbabwe’s flagship free event on digital media, civic technology and the creative economy —returns ahead of the Shoko Festival. It spotlights urgent debates on data ownership, algorithmic bias and Africa’s role in global internet governance. Key Themes and Highlights Data Sovereignty:  Who truly owns African data? Algorithmic Bias:  Redressing AI systems built on Western datasets. Civic Tech for Youth:  Engaging a generation born online. Digital Storytelling:  Shaping local narratives beyond foreign media frames. “Decolonise the Internet challenges colonial legacies embedded in infrastructure, biased AI and foreign misinformation,” says Hub Unconference coordinator Takudzwa Musakasa. “We’re calling on Africans to reclaim our digital narratives.” Voices and Perspectives Zimbabwean media scholar Takura Zhangazha,  this year’s keynote speaker, opens the two-day programme with a fireside chat on indigenous content creation and the ethics of algorithmic recommendation. Delegates will rotate through skill-share sessions, lightning talks and live podcast recordings, forging collaborations between technologists, artists and civic advocates. Dr. Justine Wanda , digital-rights researcher at the University of Nairobi, argues that current governance frameworks perpetuate neocolonial control. “Major internet exchange points lie in Europe and North America, locking African traffic into foreign routes and surveillance regimes. We need pan-African architectures,”  she says during a panel on regional internet exchanges. Antonio Kisemboi, co-founder of Kampala-based civic-tech startup DataReform Uganda, highlights the Open Data Africa Summit running in parallel. “Our summit brings bloggers, activists and developers asking: Who profits from Africa’s data goldmine, and who is left out?” Innovation and Art Live art installations and interactive demos will showcase local innovations. Magamba Network’s Mufasa Poet  is set to drop verses on data liberation, while sound-designer ProBeatz  experiments with “algorithmic poetry” to expose bias in music-recommendation engines. “We’re creating alternative digital spaces that center African languages and realities,” says Zimbabwean artist King Kandoro. “Art can upend the monopoly of Big Tech’s narrative.” The Unconference’s free-entry model—requiring only an RSVP—attracts students and young professionals from Harare’s universities and tech hubs. “The Hub is where ideas become code and campaigns,”  says attendee Lucia Mapengo,  a civic-tech intern. Growth and Partnerships Launched in 2015 by Magamba Network , the Hub Unconference grew from a 100-attendee showcase of digital startups into a pan-African forum. Past speakers have included Guardian tech correspondent Alice McCool  and CNN’s Robyn Kriel. This year’s partnership with CHARM Africa —a consortium of civil-rights organisations—underscores the event’s focus on human-rights conditionality for digital aid and governance.

Two senior ZPC Hwange employees have been arrested over a US $3.8 million asset theft caught on CCTV ( image source ) Two senior staff at the Zimbabwe Power Company’s (ZPC) Hwange coal-fired station were arrested on 16 September after CCTV footage exposed the theft of company assets valued at approximately US $3.8 million. The suspects—Stores Officer Tawanda Mhaka  and Loss Control Assistant Ruth Chiyani —appeared before Hwange Magistrates’ Court and were remanded to 26 September, while a third accomplice, Hardlife Zimwenje , remains at large. In the early hours of 22 and 23 August, security cameras in the Turbine Hall captured a haulage truck being loaded with 15 electric motors, 48 tonnes of brass pipes, and an industrial metal container  without proper authorisation or paperwork. Prosecutors say Chiyani oversaw the unauthorised removal and failed to produce invoices, while Mhaka ordered a boilermaker to cut bulky items into smaller sections to facilitate transport on hired trucks arranged by Zimwenje. According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), investigators recovered signed removal-authority forms bearing the defendants’ signatures, bolstering a case they describe as “economic sabotage” of critical national infrastructure. “This case serves as a clear example of the accountability required of those entrusted with national assets. Economic sabotage will be thoroughly investigated and those responsible will face serious consequences,” the NPA said in a statement. A senior power-sector security adviser, speaking on condition of anonymity, warned that systemic vulnerabilities in ZPC’s asset-management and access-control systems have made the station a target for organised theft. “The ease with which high-value spares were loaded onto trucks points to collusion at multiple levels,” the adviser said. “Prompt action is needed to shore up digital locks, perimeter patrols and employee vetting.” Hwange, Zimbabwe’s largest coal-fired plant with an installed capacity of 920 MW, provides roughly half of the nation’s electricity supply. The loss of spares at this site compounds frequent breakdowns and load-shedding that already cost the economy an estimated US $1 billion annually in lost output. In 2022, ZPC began scanning all incoming and outgoing loads via Asycuda-linked RFID tags, but insiders say implementation has been slow and underfunded. The stolen assets included 15 electric motors (various capacities), 48 tonnes of brass piping, and one industrial metal container . Thefts of critical components have dogged ZPC for years, with past incidents uncovered through whistle-blower tips rather than surveillance data. In late 2024, missing turbine bearings triggered a six-week outage, underscoring the fragility of Zimbabwe’s power-generation infrastructure in the absence of robust security protocols. Amid chronic power shortages, the government signed a US $455 million refurbishment concession with Jindal Africa  in September 2025 to overhaul six ageing Hwange units over four years—work meant to raise unit-availability rates above 85 percent and reduce blackouts. But equipment theft threatens those targets. Industry analysts note that insurers may hike premiums on ZPC’s assets if security lapses persist, driving up the long-term cost of the refurbishment programme. ZPC’s 2024 annual report highlighted a ZWL 3 billion shortfall in maintenance funding , leaving many spares unprocured and stores vulnerable. The utility has since sought to automate its stores management and introduce multi-factor authentication for asset-release approvals, but budget constraints have stalled full roll-out. Mhaka and Chiyani will return to court on 26 September for a bail hearing, while law-enforcement agencies continue hunting Zimwenje. The ZPC board has ordered an immediate audit of all stores nationwide and instructed management to fast-track installation of vehicle-mounted CCTV and GPS-tracking devices on haulage contractors. Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Energy plans hearings in October to probe infrastructure-security gaps. As Zimbabwe grapples with power deficits, this high-profile theft case may prove a litmus test for the government’s commitment to safeguarding strategic assets and accelerating reforms in the energy sector.

Anne Makahamadze turns 50, celebrated for her compassion, leadership, and service through community development Today, the Southerton community celebrates a remarkable milestone: Anne Makahamadze’s 50th birthday . In every role—wife, mother, leader—Anne has woven compassion and determination into a life that uplifts everyone she encounters. Her warmth lights every room, her laughter is contagious, and her commitment to service has set a standard for all of us in Southerton and beyond. Anne’s partnership with her husband, Andrew Makahamadze , is a testament to shared purpose. Together, they have raised five children—three daughters whose creativity echoes their mother’s nurturing spirit, and two sons whose courage reflects Anne’s boldness. She balances family life with grace, teaching her children daily the power of generosity, the importance of faith, and the beauty of pursuing one’s calling. As a Trustee at the Southerton Constituency Community Development Trust  and a guiding force behind the Andrew Makahamadze Foundation , Anne has shaped initiatives that strengthen neighborhoods across the region. She has orchestrated scholarship programs, expanded healthcare access, and empowered small businesses through targeted grants and mentorship. Her strategic vision ensures resources flow where they matter most, while her hands-on approach reminds us that progress begins with genuine human connection. Beyond organizational leadership, Anne’s personal ministry  defines her legacy. She visits prisons, counseling inmates with both practical aid and spiritual encouragement. She sits with struggling families, delivering essentials alongside heartfelt prayers. Known as a prayer warrior , Anne listens without judgment, offers unwavering support, and affirms each person’s worth. Her quiet acts of kindness have restored hope and dignity in countless lives. Anne’s commitment to inclusive education and rehabilitation also shines in her work with Ruvimbo Special School for Children with Disabilities  and the Jairos Jiri Orthopaedic Workshop . She has championed adaptive learning materials, led fundraising campaigns for mobility aids, and celebrated every student’s progress. At Ruvimbo, children receive individualized lessons that honor their strengths. At Jairos Jiri, young adults gain independence through custom prosthetics and community-driven workshops. As Anne embarks on her sixth decade, the future promises even more impact. Her faith  will continue to guide collective efforts toward justice, her generosity  will inspire new partnerships of care, and her optimism  will fuel innovative solutions to persistent challenges. On behalf of Southerton Business Times  and the countless individuals she has touched, we extend our deepest gratitude and warmest birthday wishes. Here’s to Anne Makahamadze—may the next fifty years be as impactful and joy-filled as the first.

Hundreds mourn 31 Yemeni journalists killed in Israeli air strikes on Sanaa ( image source ) Hundreds of mourners gathered on Tuesday in rebel-held Sanaa  for funeral services honouring 31 Yemeni journalists  killed by Israeli air strikes last week, as grief over the loss of media workers ignited fresh calls for the protection of civilians amid the widening regional conflict. The Houthi-run Al-Masirah TV  broadcast live scenes from the Al-Rawda Mosque , showing dozens of caskets draped in white shrouds and lined up before an honour guard. Attendees chanted prayers and carried placards demanding accountability for the deaths, which Yemen’s health ministry in Sanaa says included civilians struck in residential zones, a military headquarters and a fuel station . “We bury our colleagues today, but our demand for justice will never die,”— Khaled Rageh , correspondent at the funerals. Local journalists say the strikes followed a Houthi drone attack on southern Israel’s Ramon Airport  on 10 September, which Israel’s military reports breached its multilayered air defences and injured one civilian. Retaliatory strikes hit Sanaa’s outskirts on 11 September, with at least 46 fatalities reported, including the 31 media workers identified by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ)  as covering local events for outlets such as Al-Masirah  and September 26  newspaper. A senior CPJ representative, speaking anonymously due to restricted access, warned that verifying casualty details remains difficult under strict Houthi censorship. “We’re pushing for independent investigations, but on-the-ground reporting is almost impossible in Sanaa,” the source told the Associated Press . Funeral Scenes and Eyewitness Accounts Ahmed Malhy , a cameraman for a local news channel, described heavy rain thinning turnout at Tuesday’s service. “It was as if the heavens wept for those lost,” he said by phone. “Yet hundreds braved the storm to honour lives dedicated to truth.” Footage shows mourners lining the route to the burial ground, carrying framed photographs of the fallen journalists. The funerals took place amid damage to the National Museum of Yemen , whose façade was cracked by blast waves, and reports that a military facility in Hazm in Jawf province was also struck. Houthi authorities claim the targets were linked to Iran-backed militia operations, a claim Israel’s defence officials dispute, insisting civilian sites were collateral in counter-terrorism efforts. Human Rights Watch senior Middle East researcher John Simpson condemned the strikes as a “flagrant disregard for civilian safety” and called for UN-mandated probes into the incident. “Journalists are non-combatants. Their deaths underscore the urgent need for clear protocols protecting media staff in conflict zones,” Simpson said in a press statement. Meanwhile, Professor Nada al-Hamami  of the University of Sana’a—speaking via encrypted messaging—argued the killings risk silencing independent reporting and emboldening extremist narratives. “Without journalists, information vacuums will be filled by propaganda, deepening mistrust and prolonging violence,” she warned. Wider Conflict Context The Sanaa strikes mark the latest episode in a 22-month exchange of drones and missiles  between Houthi rebels and Israeli forces, rooted in solidarity claims with Palestinians amid the Gaza conflict. Houthi leaders assert their operations aim to support Gaza civilians . Israel counters that Houthi actions threaten Red Sea shipping lanes  and regional stability . Since April 2023, the Houthis have launched over 100 projectiles  toward Israeli targets, prompting more than a dozen Israeli air campaigns on Yemeni soil. Civilian infrastructure—including schools, hospitals and residential blocks —has repeatedly borne the brunt, as documented by open-source investigators. Calls for accountability are mounting. UN Secretary-General António Guterres  has urged both parties to respect international humanitarian law  and protect journalists. The UN Human Rights Council  is expected to convene a special session in Geneva next week, focusing on press-safety measures in Yemen and beyond.

Zimbabwe has signed a US $455 million concession with Jindal Africa to refurbish Hwange Power Station ( image source ) Zimbabwe has signed a US $455 million, 15-year concession with Jindal Africa to refurbish six ageing units at the 920 MW Hwange coal-fired power station, aiming to restore capacity, reduce load-shedding, and ease chronic electricity shortages. The agreement, announced by Energy Minister July Moyo during a post-cabinet briefing on 17 September, tasks Jindal Africa—India’s Jindal Steel subsidiary focused on the continent—with overhauling units commissioned in the 1980s. Work is set to span four years, after which Jindal will recoup its investment from electricity-sale revenues under a public–private concession framework. “This concession deal is a strategic move to fast-track capacity restoration without indebting taxpayers,”said July Moyo at the State House briefing. Zimbabwe currently meets just half of its roughly 2 000 MW peak demand, enduring daily blackouts that average 8–12 hours. The Hwange complex, the nation’s largest, saw two new 300 MW units added in 2023, lifting overall capacity to 1 520 MW, but its remaining six units have operated at one-third capacity due to breakdowns and maintenance backlogs. Under the concession terms, Jindal Africa will manage operations, secure spare parts, and upgrade boilers, turbines, and control systems. The company will earn a fixed tariff per kilowatt-hour sold over 15 years, with a review clause in year seven. If performance benchmarks—such as unit availability rates above 85 percent—are missed, penalties will apply. Energy-sector veteran and analyst Dr. Thandiwe Moyo of the Zimbabwe Coalition on Debt and Development applauds the model but warns on tariffs: “While private capital fills an urgent gap, tariff structures must remain affordable. Otherwise, consumers and industries risk passing higher costs to end users.” Public–private concessions have underpinned power revamps in emerging markets. In 2019, Kenya’s Mumias Sugar Power Project followed a similar path, attracting an Indian investor to convert bagasse into 50 MW of baseload power. Zimbabwe’s deal echoes regional trends of leveraging private expertise to overcome state-owned utility funding constraints. Jindal Africa will also train local engineers in digital maintenance practices and environmental safeguards. “Knowledge transfer is integral,” says Jindal’s country director, Sanjay Rathi. “We’re embedding predictive-maintenance protocols to slash unplanned downtime.” Since the 1990s, Harare’s and Bulawayo’s grids have faced underinvestment. Kariba’s hydroelectric station, inaugurated in the 1960s, completed a 300 MW upgrade in 2018 to reach 1 050 MW but remains vulnerable to drought-induced capacity dips. Zimbabwe Power Company’s 2024 annual report flagged a ZWL 3 billion maintenance shortfall and projected up to 3 000 MW demand by 2030. Frequent power cuts have cost the economy up to US $1 billion annually in lost productivity, according to a 2024 Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries study. Manufacturing plants operate on captive diesel generators, and SMEs cite energy insecurity as the top investment deterrent. Restored capacity at Hwange could stabilise the national grid, reduce diesel imports, and unlock foreign-direct investment in mining and agro-processing. “Reliable power is the backbone of industrialisation,” notes economist Dr. Kostia Mpofu of the University of Zimbabwe. “This deal could catalyse job creation and export expansion if implemented effectively.” Communities around Hwange also stand to benefit. The refurbishment includes a community water-treatment component, expected to alleviate water-scarcity issues exacerbated by coal-ash contamination. Local council chairperson Mercy Zambara says, “We welcome initiatives that marry industrial upgrade with social-service improvements.” The Energy Ministry must obtain parliamentary approval for tariff schedules by 31 October and update regulations governing independent power producers. Observers will track Jindal’s financing plan, the government’s regulatory amendments, and the project’s early performance metrics to assess whether this concession can herald a turning point in Zimbabwe’s long-standing power crisis.