President Duma Boko of Botswana BULAWAYO  — President Duma Boko of Botswana  is set to officially open the 66th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) , marking a significant moment for regional economic integration. The announcement was made by the Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services, Dr. Zhemu Soda, during a post-Cabinet briefing in Harare on Wednesday. The premier trade showcase, scheduled to run from April 20 to 25, 2026, at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo, will see President Boko perform the official opening honours on Thursday, April 23. This year’s fair operates under the theme “Connected Economies, Competitive Industries,” a strategic nod to the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). “This year’s ZITF theme underscores the significance of regional trade, cross-border collaboration, and the promotion of resilient supply chains,” Minister Soda stated. “President Boko’s presence reinforces the strong bilateral and economic ties between Zimbabwe and Botswana.” Minister Soda noted that strategic discussions are currently underway with major airlines, including Air Zimbabwe, fastjet, and Ethiopian Airlines, to increase flight frequencies to Bulawayo. This surge in logistics is aimed at facilitating the seamless movement of thousands of delegates and exhibitors expected to descend on the City of Kings. The 2026 edition has already broken previous records for participation. International interest has nearly doubled, with 33 exhibitors from 16 different nations confirmed, compared to just 17 participants in 2025. Key ZITF 2026 Statistics: Total Exhibitors: 520 (surpassing 486 in 2025). New Exhibitors: 72 companies participating for the first time. Space Booked: 49,100m² (93% of total available space). International Presence: Over 33 exhibitors from 16 countries. President Boko’s invitation continues a trend of inviting high-profile regional leaders to the trade showcase. The fair was opened by Mozambican President Daniel Chapo in 2025 and Kenyan President William Ruto in 2024. The inclusion of Botswana’s new leadership signals a fresh chapter in SADC trade relations, with a focus on the Diamond-to-Beef value chains and technological exchange between Gaborone and Harare. ZITF 2026 Zimbabwe

HARARE  — In a move that sent shockwaves through global energy markets, Brent crude oil prices crashed to $94.91 per barrel  yesterday, marking a staggering 13% decline in a single session. This historic plunge follows the announcement by the U.S. administration of a two-week ceasefire with Iran , easing fears of a total blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. While the world celebrates, Zimbabwean motorists remain trapped in a high-cost cycle. Despite the global dip, petrol and diesel prices in Harare and Bulawayo are expected to remain stagnant until at least late May. The primary culprit is the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) pricing model. Unlike other nations that average out inventory costs, Zimbabwe utilizes a replacement cost pricing model. "The formula is designed to ensure the next shipment is funded," explains energy analyst Farai Mutambara. "Even though we have three months of reserves purchased at higher prices, ZERA sets the pump price based on the projected cost of the next  cargo. Paradoxically, while price hikes are immediate to prevent losses, price drops are delayed by weeks until 'cheaper' fuel physically enters the Feruka pipeline." Even if global prices hit $50, Zimbabwean fuel would remain among the most expensive in SADC. Currently, petrol carries $0.857 in taxes and levies per litre, nearly 40% of the total cost. "I spent the morning watching the news about the oil crash, hoping to save a few dollars," said Tinashe Gumbo, a commuter omnibus driver in Mbare. "But when I got to the station, the price was the same. They say the oil is cheaper in America, but in Zimbabwe, the taxman never goes on holiday." Furthermore, the mandatory ethanol blending policy remains a sticking point. Local anhydrous ethanol is currently priced significantly higher than global benchmarks, further inflating the "Green" fuel price. The current relief is built on a foundation of sand. The US-Iran ceasefire is a limited 14-day window. If diplomatic efforts fail to finalize a long-term agreement, analysts warn that Brent could bounce back toward the $110 mark instantly. The government has previously demonstrated the ability to intervene, such as the overnight removal of certain diesel levies during past crises. However, with petrol taxes remaining a vital revenue stream for the fiscus, the "wait-and-see" approach persists. For now, the crash of 2026 remains a global headline that offers zero local solace. Zimbabwe fuel prices

BEITBRIDGE  — The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA)  has dealt a massive blow to regional drug trafficking syndicates, intercepting a staggering 691.67kg of undeclared marijuana at the Beitbridge Border Post. The high-stakes seizure, which occurred on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, highlights the escalating battle against the smuggling of illicit substances from South Africa into Zimbabwe. The contraband was discovered during a routine physical examination of a South African-registered haulage truck. According to an official statement released by ZIMRA on Wednesday, the drug consignment was meticulously concealed across 34 separate packages, hidden within a larger cargo of legitimate commercial goods destined for Harare. ZIMRA officials, utilizing advanced scanning technology and physical inspections, flagged the trailer for further verification after noticing inconsistencies in the manifest. “During a routine physical examination, our officials uncovered 34 packages of marijuana concealed within a trailer of a haulage truck containing commercial goods,” the ZIMRA statement read. “Verifications revealed that the marijuana weighs 691.67 kg and was being imported from South Africa.” The authority confirmed that the individual involved, the driver of the heavy-duty vehicle, was immediately apprehended and handed over to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) CID Drugs and Narcotics division for further investigation. Local law enforcement experts note that Beitbridge remains a high-pressure point for "vimbai" (slang for marijuana) trafficking. Speaking on condition of anonymity, a border security consultant noted that the sheer volume of this seizure suggests an organized crime network. "A haul of nearly 700kg isn't for personal use; this was intended for the streets of Harare, where the drug and substance abuse crisis is already at a breaking point," the expert stated. ZIMRA has reinforced its zero-tolerance policy toward illicit trade, warning that smuggling controlled substances directly undermines public health and national security. "Smuggling controlled drugs or substances is illegal as it affects public health," the Authority added, urging transporters to remain vigilant against being used as mules for illegal syndicates. The suspect is expected to appear at the Beitbridge Magistrates' Court later this week. ZIMRA marijuana seizure

President Emmerson Mnangagwa HARARE – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has pledged full Government support to ensure Zimbabwe successfully hosts matches during the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2027 , as preparations intensify for the global showpiece. Speaking at State House on Wednesday while addressing the senior men’s national cricket team, the President said Zimbabwe is ready to meet all requirements needed to stage the prestigious tournament, which the country will co-host with South Africa and Namibia. According to The Herald, Mnangagwa assured that his administration will provide the necessary guarantees, infrastructure support, and resources to deliver a seamless tournament aligned with international standards. “This is a major opportunity to elevate Zimbabwe’s global profile,” President Mnangagwa said, adding that hosting the Cricket World Cup presents a unique platform to showcase the country’s culture, hospitality, and sporting excellence. The President stressed that the Government is fully committed to ensuring that all logistical, security, and infrastructural requirements are met ahead of the 2027 tournament. Mnangagwa called on Zimbabweans across all sectors, including business, tourism, and local communities, to work together in preparing for the event. “A collective national effort will be key to delivering a memorable and successful tournament,” he said. Sports analyst and former Zimbabwe international cricketer Alistair Campbell told Southerton Business Times  that hosting the tournament could be transformative. “If properly executed, the 2027 World Cup could boost tourism, attract investment, and leave a lasting legacy in sports infrastructure,” Campbell said. The President also commended the national team, popularly known as the Chevrons, for their strong showing at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup held earlier this year in India and Sri Lanka. Zimbabwe advanced to the Super Eight stage, securing notable victories, including a historic win over Australia and a triumph against co-hosts Sri Lanka. Mnangagwa described the team’s campaign as inspirational, praising their resilience and determination. “Their performance brought pride to the nation and enhanced Zimbabwe’s image on the global stage,” he said. Team captain Craig Ervine said the players are motivated to build on their recent success. “We are proud of what we achieved, but we know the work continues. Hosting the 2027 World Cup gives us extra motivation to perform even better,” Ervine said. Government officials view the 2027 World Cup as more than just a sporting event, but a strategic opportunity to promote tourism, economic growth, and national identity. Tourism expert Dr. Tinashe Manzungu said global events of this scale can significantly enhance destination visibility. “Major sporting events attract international attention and can reposition Zimbabwe as a competitive tourism and investment destination,” he noted. With preparations now gathering momentum, authorities are optimistic that the tournament will leave a lasting legacy for Zimbabwe’s cricket infrastructure and international reputation. Zimbabwe Cricket World Cup 2027

MWENEZI – A 26-year-old man from the Chief Negari area in Mwenezi has been arrested after allegedly murdering his uncle with a machete in a brutal attack reportedly triggered by accusations of witchcraft. Police have identified the suspect as Adwin Mafurere, who is accused of killing his 51-year-old uncle, Simbarashe Mafurere, at around 11 AM at the victim’s homestead. According to witnesses, the deceased was shelling groundnuts with his wife, Esnut Runoza (49), and another individual when the suspect arrived at the homestead, accompanied by a woman. Sources said Adwin requested groundnuts and sat beside his uncle, who was seated on a wooden stool, before the two engaged in a conversation about family matters. “Everything seemed normal at first. They were talking and eating together,” said a neighbour who witnessed the incident. “We did not expect it to turn violent so quickly.” Witnesses allege that after finishing the groundnuts, the suspect suddenly produced a machete and launched a violent attack on his uncle. Simbarashe Mafurere sustained multiple head injuries and deep cuts, reportedly being struck at least six times. He died on the spot due to severe blood loss. The suspect fled immediately after the attack, leaving the victim’s family in shock. “I screamed for help, but it was too late,” said the deceased’s wife, Esnut Runoza. “He collapsed right there. I never imagined something like this could happen in our family.” The incident was reported to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, and the body was taken to Neshuro District Hospital for a post-mortem examination. Authorities confirmed that the suspect later handed himself over to the police. During initial questioning, he allegedly claimed that his uncle had been “bewitching” him and preventing him from getting married. Masvingo provincial police spokesperson Kudakwashe Dhewa confirmed the case, warning against violent responses to personal or cultural beliefs. “We strongly discourage the use of violence in resolving family or personal disputes. Allegations of witchcraft should never be used as justification to harm others,” said Inspector Dhewa. He urged members of the public to seek lawful and peaceful ways to resolve conflicts, including engaging community leaders or law enforcement authorities. Cases involving accusations of witchcraft continue to surface in parts of rural Zimbabwe, often leading to violence or social tensions within families and communities. Sociologist Dr. Nyasha Chikomba said such incidents highlight the need for increased awareness and conflict resolution mechanisms. “Belief in witchcraft remains deeply rooted in some communities, but it becomes dangerous when individuals take matters into their own hands instead of seeking mediation or legal recourse,” she said. Authorities say investigations into the incident are ongoing, and the suspect is expected to appear in court soon. Mwenezi murder case

BEITBRIDGE  — Following a harrowing incident where six children were discovered hidden inside a taxi on Monday, April 6, South Africa’s Border Management Authority (BMA)  has moved to clarify the rigorous protocols governing the handling of unaccompanied minors at ports of entry. The interception occurred during a high-alert period at the Beitbridge Border Post, where officials found the minors "stuffed" inside a vehicle in a desperate attempt to bypass immigration controls. The incident has reignited concerns regarding human trafficking and the safety of undocumented children crossing the Limpopo. BMA Commissioner Michael Masiapato emphasized that South African policy strictly forbids the immediate deportation of children. Instead, a humanitarian approach is adopted to ensure children do not fall into the wrong hands. "We do not deport children," Commissioner Masiapato stated. "The reason why we do it this way is that if somebody claims a child is theirs, we have no mechanism to prove that on the spot. We take those particular children and they are given to the Department of Social Development (DSD) on the South African side." Under this protocol, the minors are placed in a "place of safety" for approximately 24 hours. This window allows for a high-level verification process between South African and Zimbabwean authorities. The primary objective of the BMA is the swift reconciliation of children with their legitimate legal guardians. To achieve this, South African officials engage in a direct verification loop with the Zimbabwean Department of Social Development . "As South Africa, we can only release that child after the Department of Social Development on the Zimbabwean side has confirmed that indeed that particular person is the mother or father," Masiapato explained. "It is only the country of origin that can provide the assurance we need." Local child rights advocates in Zimbabwe have expressed alarm over the rise of unauthorized "Malayitsha" (cross-border transporters) carrying children. "The 24-hour processing time is a critical safeguard," says Tendai Chivara, a regional social worker. "Without this verification, children are at extreme risk of being 'collected' by individuals who may not be their parents, leading to exploitation or worse." The BMA has warned that transporters caught attempting to smuggle minors face severe criminal charges, including kidnapping and human trafficking.   Beitbridge Border Post children

Felix Mhona The Government of Zimbabwe is set to accelerate its urban renewal drive with the construction of two major interchanges at the Seke Road–Delport Road junction and the Robert Mugabe–Chiremba Road junction. These high-impact projects are designed to decongest Harare’s busiest southern corridors and provide seamless regional connectivity. According to the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, the scope of work includes the construction of Delport Road from Mabvuku and a strategic overpass linking Chiremba and Glenara Roads. Ministry officials confirmed that these upgrades are essential to closing critical gaps in the Harare southern arc road network. By streamlining these intersections, the government aims to reduce through-traffic in residential neighborhoods like Braeside and Epworth. “This is real infrastructure development aimed at decongesting one of the city's busiest routes,” a Ministry spokesperson stated in a recent update. “The project will align with Vision 2030 by creating a world-class transport system that supports economic growth.” Construction at the Mabvuku Interchange along the Harare-Mutare Highway is progressing steadily. Engineers are currently focused on the abutment substructures, which will support the bridge's superstructure. Once complete, this interchange will be a game-changer for commuters from Tafara and Mabvuku, as well as commercial logistics moving toward the Mozambican border. It follows the successful launch of the Trabablas Traffic Interchange (popularly known as the Mbudzi Interchange area project), which has already improved traffic flow between Chitungwiza and the city center. Beyond the capital, infrastructure development has shifted focus to Matabeleland South Province, the host of Zimbabwe’s 46th Independence Day celebrations. Major rehabilitation is underway on the Bulawayo–Kezi–Maphisa and Gwanda–Maphisa roads to ensure they are trafficable before the national event at Maphisa Open Grounds. Permanent Secretary of Transport, Engineer Joy Makumbe, recently led a monitoring tour of the 120km stretch. She noted that additional contractors have been engaged to meet the April 18 deadline. Regional Impact: The Bulawayo-Kezi route is a vital tourism artery for the Matobo Hills World Heritage Site. Economic Stimulus: Upgraded roads are expected to reduce travel times for rural communities and stimulate local trade. These initiatives are anchored in the Second Republic’s devolution strategy, ensuring that high-quality infrastructure reaches every province. As Zimbabwe prepares for its independence festivities, the modernization of these key highways and interchanges stands as a testament to the country's ongoing National Development Strategy (NDS1). Harare interchanges construction

Advocate Thabani Mpofu The Law Society of Zimbabwe (LSZ)  has formally engaged the government following an outcry over the selection of 16 law firms to spearhead the Title Deeds Validation and Re-Issuance Pilot Programme . Legal practitioners and transparency advocates are questioning the criteria used to shortlist the firms, citing concerns over fair competition and nepotism in the digital land reform process. The controversy erupted after a government notice in The Sunday Mail on 5 April 2026 confirmed that a pilot phase for the Digital Land Administration System (DLAS)  had commenced on 1 April. While the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs framed the move as a leap toward modernization, the legal fraternity was quick to flag the "exclusive" nature of the participant list. Prominent advocate Thabani Mpofu publicly slammed the development on 7 April, describing the handpicking of firms as a blow to professional standards. “This kind of nepotism and corruption is disgusting and must be fought by all men and women of conscience,” Mpofu stated, adding that the state shouldn't dictate legal representation for property holders. In a circular issued to members on 7 April 2026, the LSZ Executive Secretary, E. Mapara, acknowledged the rising heat within the profession. The society confirmed it has reached out to the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Justice to seek clarity. LSZ Position: The body stated that member concerns regarding the selection of conveyancers are "both valid and urgent." Next Steps: A formal response from the government is expected within 48 hours to justify the exclusion of hundreds of other registered firms from the pilot phase. The Zimbabwe Title Deeds Digitization Programme is governed by Statutory Instrument 76 of 2025, which mandates that property owners convert physical deeds into digital formats within two years. According to government officials, the pilot aims to: Test the security of the secure digital land administration framework. Refine the efficiency of the DLAP system before a nationwide rollout. Eliminate the risk of fraudulent title deeds and double allocations. However, an independent property analyst in Harare noted, “While modernization is welcome, the lack of a disclosed cost structure for title deed conversion and the perceived gatekeeping of the process could erode public trust in the new system.” As the two-week pilot progresses, the LSZ remains under pressure to ensure that the transition to digital land titles in Zimbabwe remains an inclusive process for all qualified legal practitioners. Title Deeds Digitization Programme

Inkosi Nhlanhlayamangwe Felix Ndiweni   By Southerton Business Times Editorial Staff The Ndiweni Royal House has officially appointed an acting chief to oversee traditional affairs in Ntabazinduna, a move aimed at ensuring administrative continuity while Inkosi Nhlanhlayamangwe Felix Ndiweni  remains in the United Kingdom. In a formal communiqué addressed to the Umguza District Development Coordinator (DDC) , the clan announced that Wishes Ndiweni was selected as Acting Chief, effective March 31, 2026. The family emphasized that this appointment is a temporary measure and does not signal a vacancy in the substantive chieftaincy. The appointment was made under the provisions of the Traditional Leaders Act , which allows for interim leadership when a substantive chief is outside their jurisdiction. According to the Ndiweni family, Wishes Ndiweni, a long-standing and "trusted figure" within the royal house, is well-equipped to handle the community’s traditional and administrative needs. "The House Ndiweni has seen it appropriate to appoint an Acting Chief until such time as Inkosi Nhlanhlayamangwe Ndiweni returns," the family stated in their letter. "This is in terms of the customs, traditions, and norms of the Amangwe and Nguni people." The announcement comes amid a protracted legal and political standoff between the Ndiweni clan and the Zimbabwean government. While the state has previously moved to "dethrone" Nhlanhlayamangwe Ndiweni, the clan remains defiant, asserting that the Electoral College of Succession concluded its work between 2013 and 2014. "Nhlanhla Felix Ndiweni remains the Substantive Chief of Ntabazinduna," the clan reaffirmed, noting that the government's 2019 attempt to remove him is currently under review by the High Court. Under Zimbabwean law, the President’s role in appointing chiefs is a formalization of the clan’s choice, rather than an independent selection process. The dispute traces back to the 2010 passing of the legendary Chief Khayisa Ndiweni. Despite internal family divisions, most notably involving his brother, Douglas Ndiweni Nhlanhlayamangwe was installed as heir based on a 1981 declaration by his father and the late uGogo uMasuku’s will. For Ntabazinduna, the appointment of an acting leader provides a necessary bridge. As a critical economic and cultural hub in Matabeleland North, the area requires steady leadership to navigate land use issues and local development projects while the "Chief-in-Exile" continues his legal challenge from abroad. Ndiweni clan acting chief

A 30-year-old Harare woman, Talent “Bhabhidho” Kwenda, has appeared before the courts facing fraud charges after allegedly swindling a local businessman out of US$2,000 through an elaborate pregnancy scam. The accused appeared before Magistrate Tapiwa Kuhudzai, where the state outlined a calculated scheme of manipulation and extortion that has left the complainant, prominent businessman Pax Jemwa, both financially and reputationally bruised. According to court papers, the relationship between Kwenda and Jemwa began as an extramarital affair in February 2025. By April, Kwenda allegedly informed Jemwa that she was pregnant with his child. Relying on this misrepresentation, Jemwa began providing monthly financial support for prenatal care and upkeep. The deception reached a peak in December 2025, when Kwenda claimed she had given birth to a baby boy named Ronald. The scam began to crumble when Jemwa’s natural desire to meet his "son" was met with a wall of excuses. Despite receiving continuous funding for "baby supplies" and "medical checkups," Kwenda consistently blocked any physical contact between the businessman and the child. The breakthrough in the case came from an anonymous tip-off: The Revelation: A third party informed Jemwa that Kwenda had never been pregnant. The Confrontation: When Jemwa stopped the payments and confronted her, Kwenda allegedly pivoted from fraud to extortion, threatening to expose the affair to Jemwa’s wife to silence him. The Arrest: Refusing to be blackmailed, Jemwa reported the matter to the police, leading to Kwenda's arrest. Investigations into Kwenda’s activities suggest this was not an isolated incident. Emerging reports indicate a pattern of "serial deception" targeting high-net-worth individuals. “Preliminary investigations have uncovered that the accused allegedly used a similar playbook on another victim, where she claimed to have given birth to twins to extract maintenance money,” a source close to the investigation revealed. The case highlights a growing trend of relationship fraud in Zimbabwe, where digital intimacy and extramarital secrecy are weaponized to dupe men, particularly those in the diaspora or high-profile business circles, out of thousands of dollars. Pregnancy scam Zimbabwe

The Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs  has officially moved from policy to practice, launching a critical two-week pilot programme to validate and digitally re-issue property title deeds. Starting April 1, 2026, this initiative marks the first operational phase of a nationwide transition mandated by Statutory Instrument 76 of 2025 (Deeds Registries Regulations). The pilot is designed to stress-test the new Digital Land Administration Platform (DLAP) , a blockchain-backed system intended to replace Zimbabwe's century-old paper-based registry. Unlike previous registration drives, this pilot leverages the expertise of selected private sector partners. A designated group of registered conveyancers (law firms) has been appointed to facilitate the transition for property owners. Key features of the two-week exercise include: Verification Protocols: Rigorous authentication of existing "old-format" deeds against the central registry. Digital Re-issuance: Converting verified paper documents into securitised digital records printed on tamper-proof, high-security paper. Feedback Loops: Legal practitioners will provide real-time data on system latency and user experience to refine the DLAP before a full national rollout. "This is not just a technical upgrade; it is about rebuilding the 'indefeasibility of title' in Zimbabwe," says a senior legal consultant participating in the pilot. "By digitizing the registry, we are essentially 'fraud-proofing' the Zimbabwean property market." While the pilot is localized, the legal clock is already ticking for the rest of the country. Under SI 76 of 2025, all property owners in Zimbabwe are required to convert their traditional deeds into the new digital format within 24 months. Failure to comply with this window could lead to significant hurdles, including: Transactional Freezes: Banks and financial institutions are expected to stop accepting non-securitised deeds as collateral for loans. Sales Delays: Only digital deeds will be recognized for property transfers once the transition period concludes in 2027/2028. Fraud Vulnerability: Paper deeds remain susceptible to the "double-allocation" and forgery issues that have plagued the Deeds Office in recent years. For the Southerton Business Times audience, the implications are largely fiscal. Economists argue that a transparent, digital registry is the "missing link" for Zimbabwe’s real estate sector, currently valued at approximately USD 44.19 billion. By streamlining the verification process, the Ministry aims to reduce the time for property transfers from months to days. This efficiency is expected to boost Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and improve the "Ease of Doing Business" rankings, particularly for commercial developments in Harare and Bulawayo. Zimbabwe digital title deeds pilot

Gandanzara Shrine HARARE  – The Gospel of God Church International  has successfully secured an urgent High Court interdict to suspend the planned exhumation of its founding father, Peter Jack Masedza, popularly known as the legendary prophet Johane Masowe. The ruling, delivered late Sunday, temporarily prevents the relocation of Masedza's remains from the Gandanzara Shrine, a site that has served as the church’s spiritual epicenter since his burial in 1973. At the heart of the legal firestorm is a clash between religious sanctity and the private rights of the founder's biological heirs. Masedza’s sons, Magaga and Rueben, recently obtained government approval to exhume their father’s remains, citing a desire to move him to a "more accessible location." However, the church represented by Venturas and Samukange argues that the site is not merely a grave but a global pilgrimage destination sacred to millions of followers. Their application asserts that: Lack of Consultation: The government approved the exhumation without granting the church a right to be heard. Sacred Status: The Gandanzara site holds "irreplaceable spiritual value" that would be desecrated by moving the founder. Legal Irrationality: The church claims the decision to allow the sons to move the body was "unlawful and irrational" given the historical context of the burial. Entrance to Gndanzara Shrine Lawyers representing the sons, Mushangwe and Company , have remained defiant. They argue that the government’s authorization was based on a careful review of facts, including previous court rulings that acknowledge the family’s right to determine the final resting place of their patriarch. They have petitioned the court to dismiss the church’s challenge with full costs. "The burial site has become a key pilgrimage destination, and the followers' spiritual well-being is tied to the physical presence of the founder at Gandanzara," the church's legal filing reads. The High Court has set a full hearing for Tuesday, April 7, 2026. This case is expected to set a major legal precedent in Zimbabwe regarding the hierarchy of rights between a religious organization and the biological family of a deceased spiritual leader. Security has been tightened around the Gandanzara shrine as hundreds of congregants have reportedly begun gathering in a vigil to protect the site until a final verdict is reached. Johane Masowe exhumation court case