HARARE – Detained political activist Godfrey Karembera, widely known as Madzibaba Veshanduko, says life inside a Zimbabwean remand prison has become a test of endurance marked by isolation, uncertainty, and dwindling support from former allies. Once a visible figure in Harare’s opposition activism circles, known for his street satire and mobilisation efforts, Karembera now describes a starkly different reality. “Maybe they are failing to visit me for valid reasons,” he said during a recent prison interview. “I remember when Ostallos (Gift Siziba) wanted to visit me, it took him a lot to get authorisation. Maybe they are facing the same challenges. But I haven’t heard from them for a long time.” Karembera, a supporter of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), was arrested in October 2025 following what police described as a high-speed pursuit. Authorities allege he distributed pamphlets linked to a planned protest known as the “One Million Men March,” reportedly associated with late liberation war veteran Blessed Geza. The State is relying on provisions of the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (MOPA), legislation that has drawn criticism from human rights groups for its impact on freedoms of assembly and expression. Karembera denies wrongdoing, arguing that his actions have been misinterpreted. “I never sold out. I have been consistent about my position. The charges laid against me are just unfounded,” he said. His case comes amid broader concerns over shrinking civic space in Zimbabwe. Legal and political observers have pointed to similar arrests involving opposition figures, including former CCC legislator Jameson Timba, who was detained alongside others in 2024. Authorities have defended such actions as necessary to maintain public order, previously warning that some gatherings pose a “counter-revolutionary insurrection” risk. However, civil society organisations argue that the language reflects a securitised approach to political dissent. Critics have also raised concerns over laws such as the Private Voluntary Organisations Amendment Act, which they say increases state oversight of civic groups. Political analyst Dr Tendai Moyo said the situation reflects a growing tension between security and civil liberties. “Zimbabwe is witnessing a tightening regulatory environment. The challenge is balancing legitimate security concerns with constitutional rights,” he said. Beyond the legal battle, Karembera says his detention has had severe economic consequences for his family. “My eldest sons, aged 22 and 18, are currently unemployed. We used to survive on projects I was doing, but now everything has stopped,” he said. His wife, Enia Musora, described the daily struggle to cope. “Taking care of the children alone is not easy, and sometimes we fail even to bring him something to eat. We are trying, but life has become very hard,” she said. Karembera also expressed disappointment at what he perceives as abandonment by political allies. While acknowledging logistical challenges in accessing prisons, he suggested that internal divisions within opposition ranks may also be a factor. Observers say such claims highlight ongoing factional tensions within opposition politics, which have at times weakened coordinated responses to arrests and detentions. As Karembera awaits the next stage of his legal process, his case continues to draw attention from both political and human rights circles, raising broader questions about dissent, due process, and the human cost of prolonged pre-trial detention in Zimbabwe. Godfrey Karembera arrest

BULAWAYO  — A 30-year-old woman from West Somerton suburb has begun a three-year prison sentence following her conviction for dealing in dangerous drugs in the city's central business district. Lakin Lee Robinson was initially handed a six-year term, but three years were suspended on the condition of future good behavior. The sentencing follows a coordinated sting by the CID Drugs and Narcotics Unit, which also resulted in a four-year effective sentence for her husband, Darian-Lee Kevin Lloyd Jackson (31). Acting on a tip-off that the couple was distributing narcotics using a white vehicle, detectives intercepted the car within the CBD. Prosecutor Hazel Ncube informed the court that a search of the vehicle uncovered: Sachets of cocaine. Dagga (Cannabis). Cannabis gummies and infused sweets are concealed in various compartments. The investigation extended to the couple's residence in West Somerton, where authorities discovered a significant cache of illicit substances. Recovered items included: Two 20-litre buckets filled with loose dagga. Prepared dagga cigarettes. A total seizure of approximately nine kilograms of dagga and 3.6 grammes of cocaine. The street value of the confiscated drugs is estimated to run into thousands of dollars. This conviction marks a significant win for law enforcement as they continue to target drug trafficking and distribution networks across Zimbabwe’s urban centers. The use of "cannabis sweets" and gummies has become a growing concern for authorities, as these products often target younger demographics. Bulawayo drug dealing conviction 2026

HARARE – Strive Masiyiwa, founder and group chairman of Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, has announced plans for a high-tech industrial hub in Harare—Econet Tech City—aimed at attracting global investors and accelerating Zimbabwe’s industrialisation drive. The ambitious project will be developed under Econet InfraCo, a recently listed entity on the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange, with an estimated valuation of around US$1 billion. Masiyiwa said the concept draws inspiration from successful developments across Africa and Asia, including the Eko Atlantic project in Nigeria, where Econet already operates a major data centre facility. “Modern international investors don’t like hassles when they plan to build a factory or high-tech facility,” he said. “They prefer locations where everything they need is readily available.” He explained that Tech City will operate as a “one-stop shop,” offering integrated services such as reliable power, water, fibre connectivity, security, logistics, and legal support under a unified management structure. Econet InfraCo has secured an 800-acre site near Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, which is earmarked for transformation into a self-contained industrial zone, subject to government approvals. The development is expected to host up to 300 companies and create more than 20,000 jobs once fully operational, making it one of Zimbabwe’s largest private sector-led infrastructure projects. Masiyiwa said the project will feature cutting-edge infrastructure, including: A 100MW solar power plant High-speed fibre connectivity Industrial waste management systems High-security systems with CCTV and drone surveillance “The goal is to build a self-sufficient ‘city within a city’,” he said. The hub will also include essential amenities such as a shopping centre and a clinic, though it will not incorporate residential housing. Econet already operates a 5MW data centre in Willowvale and plans to expand capacity with a 10MW facility within the Tech City precinct, positioning Zimbabwe as a potential regional data and digital services hub. Masiyiwa said architectural and engineering designs are already underway, with some solar infrastructure components expected to be sourced from China. Masiyiwa acknowledged that Zimbabwe faces stiff competition from regional investment hubs such as Lagos, Cape Town, Nairobi , and Kigali. “Zimbabwe is competing with major cities across Africa. This could be a great partnership if it is supported,” he said, emphasising the need for government incentives and regulatory backing. Industry analyst Tinashe Chikomba said the success of the project will depend on policy consistency. “Large-scale industrial parks require investor confidence, stable regulations and efficient approvals. If those conditions are met, this project could be transformative,” he said. Econet InfraCo plans to roll out the project in phases once approvals are secured, with early interest already emerging from international investors. Masiyiwa stressed that the initiative is not meant to be exclusive, encouraging similar developments across Zimbabwe and the continent. “This model can be replicated. It’s about creating ecosystems that support industrial growth and economic transformation,” he said. Econet Tech City Zimbabwe

By: Dr. P . Sibiya "Dorofia" (also spelled dhorofiya or umdolofiya) is a local term, often used in Zimbabwe and parts of South Africa, for the prickly pear fruit. This fruit is known for its sweet, juicy interior and thorny, cactus-like exterior, often found in hot, arid, or semi-arid regions. The cactus features flat, fleshy pads known as cladodes (or “paddles”), which store water, allowing the plant to survive extreme desert conditions. Mudorofiya has a slightly tangy flavor, and when cooked, its texture is similar to okra. Nutritional Value of Mudorofiya  This nutrient-dense food is rich in vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds. Key nutrients: Dietary fiber Iron Potassium Vitamins A, C, E, and B-complex Natural antioxidants Potential Health Benefits of Mudorofiya Supports Blood Sugar Promotes Healthy Digestion Supports Heart Health Fights oxidative stress * Reduces inflammation Protects cells from damage Supports the immune function Promotes Bone Health Fights cancerous cells Fights obesity * Treats migraines Enhances brain function * Heals wounds  How to Eat Mudorofiya Grill or sautée as a vegetable side dish. Use it fresh in salads or blend it into green juices or smoothies. Add to soups or traditional meals. Traditional Wellness Preparations for Mudorofiya In Zimbabwe and the broader SADC region, Mudorofiya (Dorofia) is often prepared using methods that maximize its healing potential while minimizing digestive discomfort. 1. The "Mutakura" Style (Wellness Stew) The Method: The young, tender pads (cladodes) are stripped of their thorns, diced, and boiled alongside traditional legumes like cowpeas ( nyemba ) or round nuts ( nyimo ). Healing Intent: This combination provides a high-protein, high-fiber meal that supports stable blood sugar and heart health. Texture Tip: Much like okra, the mucilage (the "sliminess") is preserved in this method to soothe the digestive tract. 2. Sun-Dried Powder (The Storage Method) The Method: Cladodes are sliced thinly and sun-dried until crisp, then pounded into a fine green powder. Healing Intent: This powder is stirred into morning porridge ( bota ) to enhance brain function and provide a sustained B-complex vitamin boost for recovery. 3. The "Dorofia" Hydration Infusion The Method: Fresh fruit pulp is blended with water and a hint of lemon, then strained to remove seeds. Healing Intent: Used as a natural electrolyte replacement to fight oxidative stress and support immune function during illness. Possible Side Effects Digestive discomfort and bloating. People taking medications for blood sugar control should consult a healthcare professional before consuming Mudorofiya regularly, as it may enhance glucose-lowering effects. Disclaimer This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here. Dr. Precious Sibiya is a certified Wellness Practitioner, stroke survivor, and advocate for natural healing and lifestyle. Contact her for more Wellness insights on: Email:  precioussibiya2014@gmail.com Phone: +263775369467 Mudorofiya Prickly Pear Zimbabwe

HARARE – Health experts have raised an alarm over the growing circulation of illegal herbal creams and unregulated medicines in Zimbabwe, warning that the surge in informal drug markets commonly known as “backyard pharmacies” poses serious risks to public health. Across Harare and other urban centres, unlicensed vendors are openly selling antibiotics, painkillers, skin-lightening creams, and herbal mixtures from homes, tuckshops, market stalls, and pavements. Authorities say some of the products being sold include restricted prescription drugs, often dispensed without medical oversight or regulatory approval. Public health specialists warn that many of these medicines may be counterfeit, expired, or improperly stored, exposing consumers to severe health complications. Itai Rusike, Executive Director of the Community Working Group on Health (CWGH), said the situation reflects a dangerous gap in healthcare access and regulation. “The unregulated sale of medicines places patients at significant risk because there is no professional guidance on dosage, side effects or drug interactions,” Rusike said. He added that many vendors lack medical training, while some products have not undergone scientific testing or clinical validation. Medical practitioners say the use of unverified medicines can lead to misdiagnosis, delayed treatment , and worsening health conditions. Johannes Marisa, president of the Medical and Dental Private Practitioners of Zimbabwe, warned that counterfeit drugs often create a false sense of recovery. “Patients may believe they are getting better when in fact the underlying condition is worsening, leading to prolonged illness and, in some cases, death,” he said. Health experts also caution that improper use of antibiotics sold on the streets could contribute to antimicrobial resistance, a growing global health threat. Analysts say the rise in illegal medicine vending is partly driven by Zimbabwe’s economic challenges, which have made formal healthcare services unaffordable for many citizens . At the same time, high unemployment has pushed some individuals into informal pharmaceutical trading as a source of income. A Harare resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said many people turn to street medicines out of necessity. “Hospital fees are too high for some of us. People end up buying what they can afford, even if they are not sure it’s safe,” she said. The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has repeatedly warned that unregulated medicines can cause serious complications, including kidney and liver damage, high blood pressure, and even cancer in extreme cases. Experts say skin-lightening creams sold informally may contain harmful substances such as mercury or steroids, which can have long-term health effects. In response to the growing threat, authorities have intensified enforcement measures, with offenders facing penalties of up to 20 years in prison under existing laws. However, health stakeholders argue that enforcement alone is not enough. Public health researcher Dr Nyasha Dube said awareness campaigns are critical. “People need to understand the dangers of buying medicines from unregulated sources. Strengthening public education is just as important as enforcement,” she said. As the informal drug market continues to expand, experts warn that failure to act decisively could lead to a wider public health crisis. They are calling for stronger regulation, improved access to affordable healthcare, and coordinated efforts between government agencies, health professionals, and communities to curb the spread of illegal medicines. illegal medicines Zimbabwe

HARARE – An East London mother has told the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court that she spent years trying to recover compensation from Zimbabwe-born attorney Manfred Chinamasa, but never received any payment before her son’s death. Chinamasa (54), a former lecturer at the University of Fort Hare, is facing charges of theft and money laundering linked to alleged fraud involving the Road Accident Fund (RAF). Authorities allege he defrauded RAF clients of approximately R13 million. Testifying in court, Bukiwe Nomnganga (63) described her prolonged efforts to recover funds following the death of her son, Sandiso Nomnganga. She told the court that Sandiso was injured in a road accident in 2016 in Gqeberha. She later hired Chinamasa in 2017 to pursue a compensation claim. Sandiso died in December 2018 at Nkgubela TB Hospital. Nomnganga testified that in July 2019, Chinamasa informed her that the RAF had paid out R425,000 in general damages. She said she was shown documents confirming the payment and was told that legal fees of about R106,000 would be deducted. “He said it would take six months before the money got to me,” she told the court. Despite repeated follow-ups, Nomnganga said she never received any money. “I would go and check and be told he hadn’t paid,” she said, adding that explanations from the accused changed over time. In 2021, Chinamasa allegedly referred her case to another firm, which informed her that no funds had been received. Subsequent attempts by another lawyer in 2022 also failed to recover the money. “I did not receive a single cent from Chinamasa,” she testified. Nomnganga said she reported the matter to police in 2024 after learning of Chinamasa’s arrest by the elite unit known as the Hawks. She also filed a complaint with the Legal Practice Council, which struck Chinamasa off the roll in 2023. During proceedings, tensions surfaced when Nomnganga addressed Chinamasa directly, disputing his claim that he had withdrawn from representing her. “I was expecting that I would be assisted, not have attorneys fighting over me,” she said. Chinamasa, who has been in custody since 2024, is representing himself after dismissing his legal counsel. The court has admitted statements from seven RAF forensic officials as evidence, as the case continues to unfold. Legal analyst Advocate Sipho Dlamini said the matter highlights risks faced by claimants. “RAF cases often involve vulnerable clients. This trial underscores the importance of oversight and accountability within the legal profession,” he said. If convicted, Chinamasa could face significant jail time, in what is shaping up to be one of the more closely watched fraud trials involving RAF claims in recent years. Manfred Chinamasa case

HARARE – Zimbabwe’s Presidential spokesperson George Charamba has defended the reassignment of Jessie Majome from the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission, dismissing criticism from legal experts who argue the move may violate constitutional provisions governing independent commissions. The controversy, which escalated between 10 and 11 April, has sparked a broader legal and political debate over the limits of executive authority and the independence of constitutional bodies. Charamba argued that decisions within constitutional commissions are collective and not attributable to individuals. “The way our Constitutional Commissions are constituted… any deliberation, decision or pronouncement… is the outcome of the whole Commission,” he said. He also criticised what he described as selective outrage, pointing to previous reactions to Majome's appointment as chairperson of the commission. Supporting this view, Simiso Mlevu, spokesperson for the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission, said the reassignment was not without precedent. “By the way, this is not the first time she has been re-assigned. In March 2024, she was re-assigned to ZHRC from ZACC,” she said, questioning why critics were raising concerns now. However, several prominent lawyers have challenged the legality of the move, arguing that it may amount to an unlawful removal from office. Thabani Mpofu said members of independent commissions can only be removed under strict constitutional procedures. “A member of an Independent Commission… can only be removed from office under Section 237(2) of the Constitution,” he said, adding that a tribunal process is required. Siphosami Malunga argued that the Constitution does not provide for “reassignment” of commissioners. “The process to remove her from ZHRC is ultra vires the Constitution… invalid, void and unenforceable,” he said. Legal practitioner Obey Shava echoed similar concerns, describing the move as lacking a constitutional basis, while Doug Coltart questioned whether due process had been followed. The reassignment comes amid heightened scrutiny following a report by the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission on consultations regarding Constitutional Amendment No. 3, which has itself drawn criticism from civil society and opposition groups. Analysts say the timing has added to perceptions that the move may be politically sensitive, although authorities have not directly linked the two developments. Zimbabwe’s Constitution provides specific procedures for removing members of independent commissions, typically involving investigations and recommendations from the Judicial Service Commission. Legal analyst Dr. Alex Magaisa said the issue may ultimately require judicial clarification. “This is a constitutional question that may need to be tested in the courts to establish the limits of executive power over independent commissions,” he said. Charamba has challenged critics to pursue legal action, stating: “Go to court… and we meet you there.” With sharply divided views between government and legal experts, the matter is likely to head to the courts, where a definitive interpretation of the Constitution could set a precedent for future appointments and reassignments. Jessie Majome reassignment

HARARE  — In a lecture that has sent shockwaves through geopolitical circles, Prof. Jiang Xueqin has doubled down on his controversial 2024 predictions, outlining a terminal decline for American influence in the Middle East. Speaking to a global audience this week, Jiang argued that the current US–Iran war is not merely a regional conflict, but the "Sicilian Expedition" of the American empire a fatal overextension from which there is no recovery. Jiang, whose "Predictive History" framework correctly forecasted Donald Trump’s 2024 victory and the subsequent outbreak of war with Iran, now predicts that the conflict will end with a managed American withdrawal within the next 12 to 24 months. According to Jiang, the animating logic of Washington’s campaign is the preservation of the petro-dollar system. "Since 1973, all oil has been traded in US dollars, allowing America to run massive deficits. Without the petro-dollar, the American economy collapses," Jiang explained. However, he argues that the structural realities of modern warfare favor Tehran. While the US dominates the air, it cannot win a ground war against a nation of 90 million people that has spent 25 years preparing for an invasion. Furthermore, the "cost exchange" is unsustainable: Iran’s $50,000 drones are being countered by American interceptor missiles costing upwards of $10 million each. Jiang’s most startling prediction is the emergence of a new Middle Eastern bipolarity. As the US retreats, he expects the region to be reorganized around two dominant powers: Iran and Israel. Iran: Controlling the Strait of Hormuz and the eastern Middle East, backed by China and Russia. Israel: Controlling the western Middle East and critical trade corridors, serving as the "new muscle" for the global financial elite. "They will not be friends," Jiang noted, "but they will eventually find a way to coexist as two strong regional powers that focus on the weak rather than fighting each other endlessly." For Zimbabwean readers, the most immediate concern remains the Strait of Hormuz. With Iran effectively controlling this choke point which handles 20% of the world's oil Jiang warns that oil could reach $200 a barrel. Such a spike would trigger a global recession, significantly impacting fuel-reliant economies like Zimbabwe’s. While Jiang is 100% confident that nuclear weapons will not be used, he warns that the death of the petro-dollar is already in motion. "America made its fatal mistake," Jiang concluded. "History does not forgive those who ignore its lessons." Prof. Jiang Xueqin war predictions 2026

Mthuli Ncube HARARE – The Government has begun implementing a revised civil servant salary structure effective 1 April, with members of the uniformed forces expected to be the first to receive payments under the new framework. The updated pay scale, ranging from about US$370 for entry-level grades to nearly US$900 for senior positions, marks a shift in public sector remuneration as authorities seek to stabilise incomes and protect workers from inflation. Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Edgar Moyo said the review follows a comprehensive job evaluation exercise. “The process ensures alignment of salaries with skills, qualifications , and responsibilities across the public service,” he said. Under the new structure: Entry-level Grade A3 workers will earn between US$370 and US$375 B band (B1–B5) salaries range from US$376 to US$435 C band (mid-level) workers will receive between US$463 and US$536 Senior D band grades will earn between US$724 and US$897 Authorities say the framework is designed to promote fairness and consistency across government departments. Cecilia Alexander, president of the Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions, confirmed that uniformed forces will be the first to benefit. “Indeed, members of the uniformed forces will be the first to get their new reviewed salaries this weekend. We expect that they will go a long way in improving their welfare,” she said. She added that unions will continue engaging authorities as implementation progresses across the wider civil service. The remuneration structure maintains a blended payment system combining United States dollars and the Zimbabwe Gold, as part of broader economic reforms. In addition to salaries, the government has retained non-monetary benefits such as vehicle rebate schemes, subsidised transport, and housing support. A teacher from Chitungwiza, Rudo Moyo, said such benefits have previously eased financial strain. “I was able to access the vehicle rebate facility, and it really made a difference,” she said. She added that the success of the new salaries will depend on economic stability. “What we are now hoping for is that the new salary will hold real value. If prices remain stable, then this adjustment can genuinely improve our buying power.” Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion Minister Mthuli Ncube said the salary review is aimed at cushioning workers from inflation. “Our focus is to protect the purchasing power of civil servants and ensure that their earnings are not eroded,” he said. Meanwhile, Industry and Commerce Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu said Government monitoring indicates relative price stability in basic goods. The rollout, which began on 1 April, will continue across all sectors of the public service. Analysts say the effectiveness of the new structure will ultimately depend on inflation trends, exchange rate stability, and the real value of the local currency component. Zimbabwe civil servant salaries 2026

The Dead Horse Theory is a blunt management parable that gets attributed to the “tribal wisdom of the Dakota Indians.” It’s not a verified historical Dakota teaching, but modern business culture uses the framing of it to make the lesson hit harder. The core saying of it is that when you discover that you are riding a dead horse, the best strategy is to dismount from it. The simple logic here is that if the horse is dead, no amount of effort will make it run. Get off. Find a new horse. What Organizations or Businesses Actually Do Instead? The theory lists the absurd “advanced strategies” companies, governments, and teams use to avoid admitting the horse is dead: Buy a stronger whip – Push harder, yell louder, demand more from a system that physically can’t deliver. Change riders – Fire the manager/trader/employee and put a new person on the same dead horse. Appoint a committee – Study the horse for 6 months and release a 300-page report confirming it’s dead. Visit other companies to see how they ride their dead horses. Lower expectations – Say “we’ll just trot, not gallop”. Rebrand it – Declare the horse “living-impaired” instead of dead. Throw money at it – Increase funding, buy new software, add resources to a failed model. Training – Send the rider to a course because they “don’t know how to ride dead horses properly”. Harness multiple dead horses together – Scale the failure. Say “this is the way we’ve always done it”. How does the Dead Horse relate to the world of Business? A “dead horse” = any product, process, project, strategy, or business model that is no longer viable but is kept alive by ego, sunk costs, or politics. Real examples: (a) Blockbuster vs Netflix: Blockbuster kept “whipping” physical stores + late fees instead of dismounting to streaming. (b) Kodak: Invented the digital camera, then buried it to protect film sales. Rode the film horse until it died. (c) Trading: This ties to your $12 account questions. A dead horse is a strategy/pair/timeframe that consistently loses money. “Changing riders” = tweaking indicators endlessly. “Stronger whip” = adding leverage. Dismounting = stopping that strategy and testing a new one. (d) Projects: Keeping a product with zero performance alive because “we spent 2 years building it!” Key Fundamental Lessons Sunk cost fallacy is expensive: Money/time already spent is gone. It should not justify future spending. If the expected value is negative, dismount. Doesn’t matter if you spent $100k or 3 years. Speed of dismounting is a competitive advantage: The faster you recognize and kill failing initiatives, the more capital/time you free for live horses. Amazon calls this “disagree and commit, but know when to reverse.” Activity ≠ Progress: Committees, reorgs, rebrands, and training feel like action. If the core premise is dead, they just burn resources. Define “dead” before you start: Set kill criteria upfront. “If this strategy loses 3 times in a row, it’s dead.” If it cannot be fixed, dismount.” Without it, hope takes over. Culture must reward dismounting: Most companies punish failure, so people hide “dead horses”. Good cultures reward “intelligent fast failure.” In trading, same idea: cutting losses fast is the skill! “We’ve always done it this way” is a eulogy: Markets, tech, and customers change. A horse that won races in 2015 can be dead in 2026. Opportunity cost is the real killer: Every day riding a dead horse = a day not finding/riding a live one. For your $12 account, every trade on a broken strategy delays you from finding one with an edge. Dismounting feels like failure, but it’s actually capital allocation. The best operators dismount early, often, and without emotion. The worst buy stronger whips and schedule more meetings! In your line of business, have you encountered dead horse scenarios? How did you deal with them? Professor Mufaro Gunduza coaches and mentors Business Intelligence at Mount Carmel Institute (Harare), Indian School of Management (New Mumbai), and UNISA, among others. He is the SADC Investments Advisor for the Future Trends Group. He has written several books, including Unleashing Blue Sky Thinking , Spotting Business Opportunities , and Big Picture Thinking  (Bookboon Publishers, London & Denmark). He has just assumed the Presidency of the Southern African Chamber of Commerce. He can be contacted on WhatsApp: +263774868896, Phone: +263718925350, Email: mgunduza@yahoo.co.uk .   Dead Horse Theory in Business

HARARE – The City of Harare has installed approximately 30,000 smart water meters across several suburbs, triggering renewed debate over the balance between water availability, quality, and affordability. The rollout, part of the Harare Water Project in partnership with Helcraw Electrical, aims to replace ageing infrastructure with more than 320,000 smart prepaid meters across the capital. City officials say the smart meters are designed to ensure residents pay only for what they consume, eliminating disputes linked to estimated billing. Acting town clerk Phakamile Mabhena Moyo said the system would improve water management and help households budget more effectively. “Installation of smart pre-paid water meters is ongoing across the city,” Mabhena said, urging residents to cooperate with installation teams. Authorities also encouraged households to replace old galvanised pipes with PVC piping to reduce leaks and improve efficiency. Some residents have welcomed the initiative, particularly in suburbs such as Aspindale Park, Belvedere, Westlea, Mabelreign , and Warren Park. “We have endured challenges with estimated water charges since taking up residence here,” said Mrs Kadenge. “This installation addresses those concerns directly.” Another resident, Mr Simbarshe, said the system could help improve infrastructure accountability. “We endorse these smart meters unequivocally,” he said. However, concerns are mounting in areas such as Southerton, where residents report inconsistencies between what they are told and what they experience after installation. Some residents allege they were informed the meters would come preloaded with 1,000 litres of water, only to find no supply upon installation. “We were told there would be water included, but after installation there was nothing. We were told to go and pay at council offices,” said Andrew Makahamadze. He added that the issue goes beyond billing. “The cost of the water and the quality of water is not balancing,” he said. “Dai vanzwirawo vagari urombo.” (Authorities should also listen to residents’ struggles.) Other residents argue that pre-paid water systems risk undermining access to water, which is recognised as a basic right under Zimbabwe’s Constitution and international frameworks. Critics say the rollout is being implemented without first resolving long-standing issues such as inconsistent supply and poor water quality. Urban policy expert Dr. Gibson Ncube said sequencing is critical. “Metering is important for efficiency, but it must go hand-in-hand with reliable supply and safe water quality. Otherwise, residents feel they are paying more for less,” he said. The g overnment has indicated that the smart meter programme could eventually be expanded nationwide, starting with Harare. However, the mixed response in the capital reflects broader concerns in major cities, where residents continue to face erratic water supplies and quality challenges. The issue is not new. In 2014, the Bulawayo City Council abandoned a similar pre-paid water meter rollout following public protests. More suburbs, including Budiriro 3, Kuwadzana, parts of Eastlea, and Kambuzuma, are scheduled for installation as the project continues. As the rollout expands, the key question remains whether authorities can strike a sustainable balance between accurate billing, affordable pricing, and consistent access to clean water. Harare smart water meters

HARARE – High-stakes negotiations between the United States and Iran have ended without a breakthrough after nearly 21 hours of talks in Islamabad, raising fresh fears over the collapse of a fragile ceasefire and a possible return to conflict. The marathon discussions, hosted by Pakistan, ran from Saturday into early Sunday and were aimed at resolving escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said the negotiations covered critical issues, including nuclear activities, sanctions relief, war reparations, and control of the Strait of Hormuz. He noted that both sides exchanged “substantial information and texts,” adding that Iran had used all its diplomatic capacity to defend national interests. However, J.D. Vance confirmed that no agreement had been reached, with the US delegation preparing to return home. Speaking at a press briefing, Vance said the primary obstacle remains Iran’s nuclear programme. “The United States requires a clear and long-term commitment from Iran to forgo developing nuclear weapons,” he said, describing the demand as a “red line” set by Donald Trump. Washington maintains that Tehran must abandon any capability linked to nuclear weapons development, while Iran has consistently defended its right to pursue nuclear technology for civilian purposes. Vance acknowledged Pakistan’s role in facilitating the talks, saying Islamabad had made significant efforts to bridge differences between the two sides. Analysts say Pakistan’s involvement reflects its unique diplomatic position, maintaining ties across regional and global power blocs. Political analyst Dr. Farzana Shaikh said the talks, despite failing, were still significant. “The fact that both sides engaged for nearly a full day shows there is still space for diplomacy, even if positions remain far apart,” she said. The failure to reach an agreement casts uncertainty over the two-week ceasefire that had temporarily eased tensions in the region. Observers warn that without progress, the situation could deteriorate rapidly. Middle East expert Karim Sadjadpour said the risk of escalation remains high. “When core issues like nuclear policy and sanctions are unresolved, ceasefires tend to be fragile and short-lived,” he said. The standoff has broader global implications, particularly for energy markets. The Strait of Hormuz handles a significant share of the world’s oil shipments, and any disruption could trigger sharp price increases. For countries like Zimbabwe, which rely heavily on imported fuel, renewed instability could translate into rising transport costs and inflationary pressure. With negotiations stalled, attention now turns to whether backchannel diplomacy can revive talks or whether tensions will escalate into renewed confrontation. For now, the ceasefire remains in place but is increasingly fragile. US Iran talks Islamabad