Chief Mutasa presiding over a traditional court hearing in Zimbabwe MUTASA  – A local man, Byron Hambai, has been ordered to pay four head of cattle and replace a matrimonial bed after being caught naked and hiding on top of a wardrobe in another man’s bedroom. The ruling, delivered by Chief Mutasa  this week, has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the traditional court's hardline stance on the "defilement of matrimonial sanctity." The scandal unfolded on the night of March 23, while the homeowner, Tinashe Mutasa, was away on business in Watsomba. Acting on long-held suspicions, Mutasa’s aunt, Christina Mandofa, reportedly orchestrated a sting operation after witnessing Hambai "tiptoeing" into the homestead earlier that evening. "I had warned them before because they seemed too close," Mandofa alleged. "We gathered family members at 9 pm and, peering through the window, saw the pair together." The confrontation turned into a three-hour standoff. The wife reportedly refused to open the door, claiming she had lost the keys, while family members outside staged a mock request for a place to sleep to lure the pair out. When relatives finally gained entry around midnight, they discovered a scene that has since become the talk of Mutasa. "What we found was shocking. The man [Hambai] was hiding on top of the wardrobe, completely naked," Mandofa told the traditional court. While the wife reportedly remained defiant and "showed no remorse," her father was forced to apologize on her behalf during the preliminary family meetings. The fallout has led Tinashe Mutasa to announce plans for DNA paternity tests  for the couple's two children, citing a total breakdown of trust. Appearing before the traditional leadership, Byron Hambai did not contest the allegations. "I accept that I was wrong, and I apologize to the court and the family. It will not happen again," he pleaded. However, Chief Mutasa was unmoved by the apology, citing the need to uphold community discipline and the dignity of the home. The Court’s Order: Four Beasts (Cattle): To be paid to the aggrieved husband as compensation for damages. A New Bed: To replace the "defiled" matrimonial bed. "You cannot turn another man's home into a place of shame," Chief Mutasa ruled. "If you want a woman, marry her and do as you please in your own house. This reckless conduct damages the very fabric of our families." The ruling serves as a stern warning to young men in the district, with the Chief emphasizing that traditional law remains a potent force in regulating social and domestic conduct in rural Zimbabwe.   Mutasa adultery scandal

Isfahan province Iran landscape mountains By Southerton Business Times International Desk HARARE  — Tensions between Iran and the United States have sharply escalated following conflicting accounts of a high-risk military rescue operation in central Iran and a looming diplomatic deadline over access to the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The developments have raised fears of wider conflict, with global oil markets and international observers closely monitoring the situation. Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Joint Command claims it successfully repelled a U.S. rescue mission in Isfahan Province, allegedly destroying four American aircraft, including two C-130 transport planes and two Black Hawk helicopters. Iranian state media broadcast footage showing smoke and wreckage, presenting the operation as a “complete failure” by U.S. forces. However, Donald Trump offered a sharply different account, stating that the mission successfully rescued a second crew member from a downed F-15E Strike Eagle. “Our brave personnel completed the mission and brought our serviceman home,” Trump said via social media. Military analysts note that both accounts could contain elements of truth. In similar past operations, forces have destroyed disabled aircraft to prevent sensitive technology from falling into hostile hands, a possibility raised in some defence circles regarding the reported losses. Security expert Dr Hassan El-Tayeb said the fog of war often complicates verification. “In contested environments, both sides shape narratives for strategic and domestic audiences. Independent confirmation is extremely difficult in real time,” he said. The military tensions coincide with a high-stakes diplomatic standoff over navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery through which roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply passes. President Trump has issued an ultimatum demanding that Iran guarantee unrestricted access to the waterway by Monday evening, warning of “devastating consequences” if compliance is not met. Iran, however, has signaled it may pursue a controlled access framework rather than full liberalisation. General Ali Abdollahi Aliabadi of the Khatam al-Anbiya Joint Command dismissed the U.S. position. “Any aggression against Iran’s infrastructure will open the gates of hell for American forces in the region,” he warned. Diplomatic efforts are underway, with Oman acting as an intermediary between Tehran and Washington. Omani deputy foreign ministers met Iranian officials on Sunday in a last-minute attempt to de-escalate tensions and explore a compromise “navigation regime” that could allow monitored passage through the strait. Regional diplomacy experts say Oman has historically played a crucial role in backchannel negotiations between the U.S. and Iran. “Oman’s neutrality and established trust with both sides make it uniquely positioned to broker last-minute agreements,” said Middle East analyst Fatima Al-Balushi. The crisis has significant implications for global energy markets. Any disruption to traffic through the Strait of Hormuz could trigger sharp increases in oil prices, affecting fuel costs worldwide, including in import-dependent economies like Zimbabwe. The International Energy Agency has previously warned that prolonged disruption in the strait could destabilise global supply chains and inflation trends. With the deadline fast approaching, the situation remains fluid and highly unpredictable. The combination of military confrontation and diplomatic brinkmanship has heightened the risk of miscalculation. Analysts warn that even a limited strike or misinterpreted military action could rapidly escalate into a broader regional conflict. For now, the world watches as negotiations continue and as one of the most strategically important waterways in global trade hangs in the balance. Iran-US military tensions Isfahan rescue mission

CAPE TOWN  – Th e Labour Court of South Africa  has upheld a ruling ordering a Cape Town supermarket to compensate a Zimbabwean bakery manager who was dismissed for posting a controversial biblical verse on his WhatsApp status. Judge Tapiwa Cecilia Gandidze dismissed an application by Erarite (Pty) Ltd (trading as Khayelitsha SuperSpar)  to overturn a previous decision by the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA), which found the firing of Cloudious Gogo to be substantively unfair. The legal battle began in July 2022, a period marked by heightened xenophobic tensions in South Africa. Gogo, a Zimbabwean national holding a managerial position, posted a passage from Deuteronomy 28:43-44 on his WhatsApp status. The verse reads: “Foreigners who live in your land will gain more and more power while you gradually lose yours. They will have money to lend you, but you will have none to lend them. In the end, they will be your rulers.” At the time, a Facebook group had been targeting the supermarket, accusing it of favoring foreign workers over locals and calling for protests. The employer argued that Gogo’s post was provocative, harmful, and risked inciting violence in an already volatile environment. While Gogo removed the post within minutes and issued an apology, he was nonetheless dismissed. During the initial CCMA arbitration, the commissioner ruled that while the post was "inappropriate and ill-judged," it did not warrant the "capital punishment" of employment law dismissal. Gogo was awarded three months’ salary as compensation. The employer appealed to the Labour Court in Cape Town, contending that the commissioner downplayed the seriousness of xenophobia. However, Judge Gandidze noted: No Incitement: The post did not constitute hate speech or a direct call to violence. Contextual Distinction: There was a clear difference between Gogo’s private status and the external groups actively organizing protests. Managerial Discretion: The court reiterated that commissioners must make independent value judgments on fairness rather than simply deferring to the employer's severity. The ruling serves as a landmark for South African labour law regarding social media conduct and religious expression. Legal experts suggest the case highlights the necessity for "proportionality" in disciplinary actions. "The court emphasized that a 'grave error of judgment' does not automatically justify dismissal if the employment relationship can still be salvaged or addressed through a final written warning," noted one legal analyst following the proceedings. Because Gogo did not seek reinstatement, the court’s decision settles the matter with the original compensation order. Both parties were ordered to cover their own legal costs. South Africa Labour Court ruling

Harare Zimbabwe skyline HARARE  — The Zimbabwean government has lifted restrictions on land use changes, restoring full planning authority to local councils in a major policy shift set to reshape urban development, property investment, and spatial planning across the country. The decision, announced by Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe , ends a Conditional Moratorium that had been in place since May 2025, which temporarily centralised control over land use approvals. In an official notice addressed to mayors, council chairpersons, and senior officials, Garwe confirmed that, with effect from March 31, 2026, local authorities can once again independently approve changes in land use and reservation adjustments under the Regional, Town and Country Planning Act. “With this withdrawal of the Conditional Moratorium, local authorities are no longer prohibited from exercising… Local Planning Authority powers in respect of change of use and change of reservation,” Garwe said. The moratorium, introduced under Section 69 of the Act, had suspended councils’ authority over key planning decisions amid concerns over unregulated urban expansion, land misuse, and weak development control systems. Garwe said the government’s decision follows a comprehensive assessment showing that councils have significantly strengthened their internal planning and regulatory capacity. “The decision to withdraw has been taken after careful appraisal and assessment, which generally show that local authorities have significantly improved their internal planning and development control capacity,” he said. Authorities have been urged to continue reinforcing spatial planning systems and maintain strict oversight of development activities to ensure orderly urban growth. Urban planning experts say the move is likely to accelerate property development approvals, unlock stalled projects, and improve turnaround times for investors. Property analyst Nyasha Mataruse told Southerton Business Times  that decentralisation could stimulate economic activity. “This policy shift reduces bureaucratic bottlenecks. Developers and investors will benefit from faster decision-making at council level, which is critical for real estate growth and infrastructure expansion,” she said. However, she warned that inconsistent enforcement across councils could pose risks. “The success of this reform will depend on governance, transparency and adherence to planning regulations.” The Ministry said its Inspectorate Department will continue monitoring compliance to ensure that councils adhere to agreed standards and avoid the challenges that led to the moratorium. Urban development researcher Engineer Farai Zhou said strong oversight remains essential. “Decentralisation works best when paired with accountability. Without proper checks, there is a risk of uncontrolled developments, informal settlements and environmental degradation,” he said. The lifting of the moratorium signals renewed confidence in local governance structures and a shift towards decentralised urban planning. For cities such as Harare, Bulawayo, and rapidly growing towns, the decision is expected to influence zoning, land allocation, and infrastructure development in the coming years. As Zimbabwe seeks to modernise its urban spaces and attract investment, the policy change could mark a turning point provided local authorities maintain robust planning standards and align development with national growth strategies. Zimbabwe land use policy

Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Ziyambi Ziyambi HARARE  – Zimbabwe’s legislative landscape is set for a significant shift as the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Ziyambi Ziyambi , confirmed that the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Bill (No. 3)  is moving into its next decisive phase. Following the conclusion of nationwide public hearings, the parliamentary committees are now finalizing reports that will shape the debate in the National Assembly. Minister Ziyambi revealed that the formal introduction of the bill is imminent, pending the completion of the mandatory 90-day notification period. "Once the 90 days have lapsed which is the week beginning the 18th of May I will be in a position to formally introduce the bill in the National Assembly," Ziyambi stated. He explained that his primary task during the second reading speech will be to "unpack the bill," providing the legal rationale behind the proposed changes and detailing specific clauses. The process follows a period of intense engagement where the Portfolio Committee on Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs  solicited oral and written submissions from citizens across Zimbabwe's ten provinces. These reports will be presented concurrently with the Minister’s speech to reflect public sentiment. A central point of contention within Amendment Bill No. 3 is the proposed shift in how the executive is constituted. Critics argue that moving toward an indirect election of the President via Parliament rather than a direct popular vote weakens the democratic principle of "one man, one vote," a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle. However, Ziyambi dismissed these concerns as "misplaced," citing the country's early post-independence history. “Zimbabwe didn’t have direct presidential elections between 1980 and 1990. Those arguing that an indirect election erodes the gains of the liberation struggle are factually incorrect,” Ziyambi insisted. Legal experts remain divided. Veritas Zimbabwe, a prominent legal watchdog, has previously noted that constitutional amendments should prioritize "strengthening democratic institutions rather than consolidating executive power." Meanwhile, eyewitnesses at the Harare consultations reported a polarized atmosphere. "People are concerned about the stability of the constitution," said Tinashe Moyo, a civil society participant. "We want an amendment process that reflects the will of the people, not just political expediency." As the National Assembly prepares for the week of May 18, the business community is watching closely. Stability in the legal framework is often cited by the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) as a prerequisite for long-term investor confidence. Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Bill No. 3

The Zimbabwe National Football team (Warriors) HARARE  – In a significant boost for the nation’s international football standing, the Zimbabwe National Football Team (The Warriors)  has confirmed its participation in the Unity Cup , scheduled to take place in London from May 26 to 30, 2026. This high-profile four-nation tournament marks a pivotal step in the country's re-entry into the global footballing elite following the lifting of the FIFA suspension. The Unity Cup is designed as a "mini World Cup" of sorts, bringing together representative powerhouses from four different continents. Zimbabwe will face a grueling but exciting fixture list against: Nigeria (The Super Eagles): The defending champions and perennial African giants. Jamaica (The Reggae Boyz): Representing the athletic flair of the CONCACAF region. India (The Blue Tigers): A rapidly emerging force from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). For the Warriors, this represents their second major outing of 2026, building on the momentum gathered during the Mukuru Four Nations Cup earlier this year. Organizers emphasize that the London event transcends sport, aiming to "promote global unity" and foster diplomatic ties through competitive international matches. The invitation to London is a direct result of the aggressive diplomatic "charm offensive" led by the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) . Speaking on the upcoming tour, ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi underscored the importance of such platforms for a team that was sidelined from international play for nearly two years. “Our administration is working tirelessly to ensure the national team regains its competitive edge and visibility,” Magwizi stated. “Tournaments like the Unity Cup provide the high-level exposure our players need to adapt to international standards once again.” Football analysts suggest that facing Nigeria, the current titleholders, will be the ultimate litmus test for the Warriors' defensive structures. With the European season concluding just before the tournament, Zimbabwe is expected to call upon its UK-based "British Brigade" stars, potentially including players like Jordan Zemura  and Marvelous Nakamba , to provide local insights into the London conditions. The tournament is expected to draw a significant crowd from the Zimbabwean diaspora in the United Kingdom, providing a "home away from home" atmosphere for the squad. Zimbabwe Warriors Unity Cup London

Jessie Majome, ZHRC Chairperson, speaking on child rights and digital safety in Zimbabwe. HARARE  – The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC)  has thrown its weight behind a proposed government policy aimed at banning underage children from social media platforms. Jessie Majome , Chairperson and Spokesperson of the ZHRC, stated that while the Constitution guarantees freedom of information, the protection of minors remains a legal and moral priority. In a move that has sparked debate across Zimbabwe's digital landscape, Majome argued that restricting social media access for children is not a violation of rights, but rather a fulfillment of constitutional obligations. "A policy that would restrict children’s access to social media aligns with constitutional protections," Majome explained. She pointed to Section 19 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, which mandates that the "best interests of the child" are paramount in every matter concerning the minor. Majome further clarified that rights are not absolute. Under Section 86, the Constitution allows for the limitation of certain rights, including freedom of expression, provided the limitation is "reasonable and justifiable in a free and democratic society." The ZHRC head used a striking analogy to justify the state's intervention in the digital lives of minors. She likened unregulated social media access to allowing a child to play with an open flame. “For the same reason that we restrict children from exposure to physical harm, we also permit the limitation of access to harmful experiences that might not be physical fires, but are just as damaging,” Majome asserted. She emphasized that children are inherently vulnerable and often lack the cognitive maturity to filter harmful content or understand the long-term influences of platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. Majome’s remarks follow a recent announcement by Tatenda Mavetera, the Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, regarding the development of a formal Child Online Policy. The ministry is currently drafting a framework that could set a legal age limit for social media account ownership in Zimbabwe to mitigate risks such as cyberbullying, grooming, and exposure to age-inappropriate content. The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ)  has previously highlighted the rise in data consumption among youth, urging for tighter "e-safety" measures. While some digital rights activists worry about the "slippery slope" of online censorship, the ZHRC maintains that protecting the psychological well-being of the nation's youth is a fair trade-off. As the government moves closer to finalizing the policy, the focus now shifts to how such a ban would be enforced in an increasingly VPN-reliant digital environment. Zimbabwe Child Online Policy

Mr Andrew Makahamadze Southerton Business Times – Staff Writer IN an era where leadership is increasingly measured by tangible impact on people’s lives, Mr Andrew Makahamadze has steadily carved a distinctive path as a committed philanthropist whose work now resonates far beyond Southerton Constituency and increasingly across the African continent. His recent recognition on the continental stage, including the prestigious Kiran Jack Floating Trophy and accolades at the Africa Philanthropic Awards hosted by the Conquerors Association of the Disabled and Vulnerable (CADAV) held in Bulawayo in the first quarter of 2026, is not merely a celebration of personal achievement but a validation of a transformative model of leadership rooted in service, resilience, and innovation. Established as a platform to recognise impactful philanthropy, the initiative is supported by partners including Thompson Properties and Queen of Peace Rehabilitation Centre . Organisers said the programme encourages individuals and organisations to showcase community-based work that advances development and inspires positive social change. Among this year’s award recipients are Zimbabwe, Mark Charity Foundation, Junior Minister of Justice David Jani Masomere, the Pan African Institute, and Dr Suku Moyo Mackenzie, founder of the Let’s Talk About It Foundation. Speaking during the ceremony, Cadav founder, Dr Lot Mudhimburanwa , praised the award-winners for their contribution to national development through philanthropy. “We celebrate individuals and organisations making a tangible difference in Zimbabwe. Your dedication to philanthropy inspires us all. Esteemed scholars such as Professor Gunduza have gone further to interpret this model through the compelling “octopus concept,” a metaphor that captures intelligence, adaptability, and decentralized strength qualities that have come to define Mr Makahamadze’s growing legacy. Operating under the banners of the Southerton Constituency Community Development Trust (SCCDT) and the Andrew Makahamadze Foundation, his work reflects what can best be described as distributed impact, much like the octopus whose arms function independently yet remain guided by a central intelligence. Mr Makahamadze, who was the Guest of Honour at the colourful ceremony, commended participants from Zambia who attended the event, saying their achievements reflected perseverance and commitment to social transformation. Across Southerton and beyond, his interventions in education, health, infrastructure, and social welfare operate as interconnected strands of development, each addressing specific community needs while collectively advancing a unified vision aligned with the national aspirations championed by the pragmatic leader Cde Dr President Emmerson Mnangagwa, particularly the inclusive mantra of “Leaving no one and no place behind.” In this regard, Mr Makahamadze does not merely echo policy but translates it into lived realities within communities. His adaptive and people-centred approach to development mirrors the octopus’s ability to respond to complex and changing environments. At Ruvimbo Special School, the greenhouse project he established stands as a powerful symbol of empowerment, equipping learners with special needs with practical agricultural skills, fostering self-reliance, and restoring dignity. Such interventions demonstrate a deliberate commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that even the most vulnerable are integrated into the development agenda. Equally transformative is his role in the rehabilitation of Mbizi Police Post, a site once associated with historical trauma but now reimagined as a space of renewal and community resilience. Like the regenerative capacity of an octopus, which can regrow lost limbs, Mr Makahamadze’s work breathes new life into spaces of pain, turning them into enduring symbols of hope and national memory. His philosophy of development also recognizes the importance of attention to detail, proving that impactful leadership is not only defined by grand projects but also by meaningful improvements in everyday public service delivery. The refurbishment of the car park at Harare Central Police Station and his interventions at Sally Mugabe Hospital, where he facilitated the construction of drainage systems and access to clean water in maternity and paediatric wards, underscore a practical and responsive approach to development. These seemingly modest initiatives have far-reaching implications, particularly in improving maternal and child health outcomes, while reinforcing the functionality of critical public institutions. This ability to manage multiple interventions simultaneously reflects the octopus principle of multitasking and versatility, ensuring that no aspect of community welfare is overlooked. Beyond infrastructure, Mr Makahamadze’s philanthropy is deeply human-centred, anchored in empathy and compassion. Individuals in need of urgent medical assistance have benefited from his support, while vulnerable families have received groceries and essential supplies during festive periods, restoring hope and dignity in times of need. This humanitarian approach resonates strongly with the ethos of the great philanthropist Dr Amai Auxilia Mnangagwa, whose inclusive outreach programmes have set a benchmark for compassion-driven development in Zimbabwe. Like her, Mr Makahamadze demonstrates that true leadership extends beyond systems and structures to touch lives at a personal level. Professor Gunduza’s octopus framework further highlights Mr Makahamadze’s strengths in intelligence, innovation, and problem-solving. Just as the octopus is renowned for its cognitive mastery and ability to navigate complex challenges, Mr Makahamadze exhibits a strategic mindset that identifies community needs, mobilizes resources, and delivers sustainable solutions. His initiatives are not accidental but reflect deliberate planning, adaptability, and a forward-looking vision that anticipates challenges while responding effectively to present realities. This capacity for innovation ensures that his development model remains relevant in a rapidly changing socio-economic landscape. His growing continental stature, which was recently affirmed by the recognition at the Africa Philanthropic Awards hosted by the CADAV, positions him within a broader African movement that redefines philanthropy as a strategic tool for socio-economic transformation rather than mere charity. The event, which brought together distinguished individuals and organisations committed to uplifting vulnerable communities, underscored the importance of collaborative action in achieving sustainable development. In this context, Mr Makahamadze’s work exemplifies the principle of interconnectedness, another defining characteristic of the octopus, where partnerships, community participation, and institutional collaboration converge to produce meaningful impact. His message remains consistent and forward-looking: that achieving Vision 2030 and building a prosperous, empowered middle-income economy requires collective effort. Development, in his view, is not the sole responsibility of government but a shared duty that calls for active participation from individuals, communities, and organisations. Through this lens, his philanthropic journey becomes a practical demonstration of how decentralized action, guided by a clear and unified vision, can drive national and continental progress. From constructing greenhouses and rehabilitating infrastructure to extending a compassionate hand to those in distress, Mr Makahamadze has shown that true leadership lies in service. His journey from Southerton to continental recognition is not just a personal milestone but a powerful testament to the impact of empathy-driven, strategically executed philanthropy. Through the lens of Professor Gunduza’s octopus concept, his work stands as a dynamic and resilient model of development, one that adapts, innovates, and transforms. In an age where meaningful leadership is urgently needed, Mr Makahamadze’s example offers a compelling reminder that when vision, intelligence, and compassion converge, communities are not only supported but profoundly transformed across borders. Andrew Makahamadze Philanthropy

Upgraded highway section Zimbabwe infrastructure development HARARE  — The Zimbabwean government has adopted a sustainable financing model to fast-track the rehabilitation of the 356-kilometre Harare–Chirundu Highway, a key regional trade corridor linking Zimbabwe to Zambia, Malawi and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The major infrastructure upgrade is expected to improve road safety, reduce transit times and boost cross-border trade along one of Southern Africa’s busiest transport routes. Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona said the new funding structure is designed to ensure project continuity and avoid delays that have historically affected large-scale roadworks. “We have now put in place a funding model that ensures that when we start, we do not stop. We are targeting about 18 months to complete the project, and currently finalising financial modalities for contractors to fully move on site,” Mhona said. To date, 26 kilometres of the highway have been rehabilitated with support from the Government of Japan, a development that has been welcomed by transport operators and businesses along the route. According to the African Development Bank , efficient transport corridors are critical for regional integration and economic growth, particularly for land-linked countries such as Zimbabwe that depend heavily on road freight. Local logistics operator Tawanda Moyo, who regularly uses the route, said the improvements are already noticeable. “The rehabilitated sections are smoother and safer. If the whole road is upgraded to that standard, it will significantly cut travel time and vehicle maintenance costs,” he said. Authorities confirmed that contractors currently deployed along the highway will continue maintenance works to improve trafficability while awaiting full-scale mobilisation. The highway is part of the North–South Corridor, a major trade route connecting ports in South Africa to inland markets in Central Africa. Experts say upgrading the road will enhance Zimbabwe’s competitiveness as a transit hub. Infrastructure analyst Engineer Tafadzwa Chikowore said the financing approach reflects a shift towards blended funding models. “Combining Treasury funding, private sector investment and development partner support reduces fiscal pressure while ensuring long-term sustainability of infrastructure projects,” he said. Government has also announced plans to modernise the Chirundu Border Post starting in June, aligning it with upgrades at the Beitbridge Border Post. The planned improvements include upgrading tollgates into modern plazas and installing weighbridges to curb overloading a major contributor to road damage. President Emmerson Mnangagwa said the Harare–Chirundu Highway project forms part of a wider national infrastructure development programme. “Infrastructure upgrading and development projects are steadily progressing through innovative funding models by Treasury, private sector financing, as well as support from development partners,” he said. The President added that priority projects include the rehabilitation of the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road, upgrades to border posts such as Forbes, and construction of urban interchanges, including the recently completed Trabablas Interchange in Harare. Economists say the rehabilitation of the Harare–Chirundu Highway will play a pivotal role in facilitating the movement of goods and people, reducing transport costs and strengthening regional supply chains. The corridor is particularly important for trade between Zimbabwe and its northern neighbours, serving as a gateway to Central African markets. With full construction expected to begin once financing arrangements are finalised, the project signals renewed momentum in Zimbabwe’s infrastructure development agenda with long-term benefits for trade, logistics and economic growth. Harare Chirundu Highway rehabilitation

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth addressing military leadership at the Pentagon. WASHINGTON  – In a move that has caught senior military leadership off guard, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has dismissed three high-ranking U.S. Army generals. The firings, which include General Randy George, the Army’s top officer, and Major General William Green Jr., the Chief of Chaplains, signal a profound shift in the Pentagon’s leadership philosophy. These dismissals occurred as the U.S. weighs a potential ground invasion in Iran, raising questions about the timing and strategic rationale behind such a significant "shakeup" during active conflict. The firing of General Randy George is particularly notable given his 40-year career and his reputation as a "thoughtful, strategic leader." George had recently led the Army out of a significant recruitment crisis and was actively adapting the force to modern warfare challenges, such as the prevalence of low-cost drones. Alongside George, General David Hodne, Commander of the Army Transformation and Training Command, was also forced out. Perhaps most unprecedented was the dismissal of Major General William Green Jr. Sources indicate this is the first time in U.S. military history that a Chief of Chaplains has been fired during their four-year term. Hegseth reportedly cited concerns over "secular humanism" within the chaplaincy as a factor in this decision. A central theme of the current Pentagon leadership is the explicit rejection of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Hegseth has framed the recent personnel changes as a return to a "warrior ethos," emphasizing high, gender-neutral physical standards and eliminating what he terms "distractions and debris." "The era of DEI is gone at the Defense Department... Physical standards must be high and gender-neutral. We’re reviving the warrior ethos," Hegseth stated. However, critics point out that the firings have disproportionately targeted women and people of color. This includes the blocking of promotions for several officers, an action that reportedly led to significant friction between Hegseth and Army Secretary Dan Driscoll. The timing of these firings is a point of concern for both domestic observers and international allies. With the war in Iran entering its sixth week, the loss of tenured military expertise is viewed by some as a "gift to our enemies." Retired Lieutenant General Russell Honoré noted that the service chiefs traditionally provide a critical "vote" and active debate on major decisions, such as ground invasions. "Disagreement means dissent [to this Secretary]... He’s looking for loyalists who will do what he says as opposed to following the customs and traditions of active debate," Honoré remarked. For our readers at the Southerton Business Times , the instability at the top of the U.S. military hierarchy has several long-term implications: Defense Contracting: A remake of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and senior leadership may lead to shifts in procurement priorities and defense spending strategies. Global Security Environment: The lack of leadership continuity during the Iran conflict adds a layer of volatility to global energy markets and international trade routes. Recruitment and Human Capital: The pivot away from DEI and toward a "warrior ethos" may impact long-term recruitment trends and the professional development of a diverse military force. As the U.S. military leadership continues to be reshaped, the world watches to see if these changes will result in a more "lethal" force or an institution weakened by the loss of its most experienced strategists. Pentagon firings General Randy George 2026

A Chitungwiza CHITUNGWIZA  – Residents of Chitungwiza have been handed a financial lifeline following the Municipality's decision to extend its 30% rates discount promotion. Originally set to expire last month, the window for reduced payments will now remain open until April 30, 2026, according to a public notice issued on Thursday. Acting Town Clerk Japson Nemuseso  stated that the extension was prompted by a surge in uptake during March and numerous appeals from residents who were unable to meet the initial deadline. “Chitungwiza Municipality encourages all ratepayers to settle their bills timeously to support enhanced and sustainable service delivery,” Nemuseso noted, emphasizing the link between rate compliance and improved local infrastructure. To facilitate the expected influx of payments, the council has expanded its operational hours. In addition to standard weekday hours, the Head Office and Seke North branches will be open on Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Authorized Revenue Offices: Head Office (Saturday morning service available) Seke North (Saturday morning service available) Seke South Zengeza St Mary’s For those looking to avoid queues, the Municipality has provided several remote payment channels: Method Details EcoCash Biller Code: 44997 OneMoney Biller Code: 186566 Banking FBC Bank (Direct Deposit/Transfer) The 30% discount is more than just a promotion; it is a vital tool for the 2026 municipal budget. Higher collection rates allow for more predictable funding of "Yellow Equipment" (graders and refuse trucks), which are essential for maintaining Chitungwiza’s road and sanitation networks. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the 30% saving before the hard deadline on April 30. Chitungwiza rates discount 2026

HARARE  — Zimbabwe and Ghana have signed a landmark environmental cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening refuse collection, recycling systems, and sustainable waste management in both countries, in a move analysts say could accelerate green investment and urban sanitation reforms across Africa. The deal was concluded during a three-day State visit to Ghana by Emmerson Mnangagwa, where he held bilateral talks with Ghanaian leader John Dramani Mahama. The two presidents oversaw the signing of 10 agreements spanning trade, infrastructure, and environmental management. At the centre of the cooperation is a Memorandum of Understanding between Zimbabwe’s Geo Pomona Waste Management and Ghana’s Jospong Group of Companies , a firm widely recognised for large-scale waste solutions across Africa. The agreement is expected to address mounting waste management challenges in rapidly urbanising cities such as Harare and Accra, where population growth has strained municipal services. According to the World Bank, sub-Saharan Africa is projected to see waste generation more than triple by 2050, making sustainable systems critical for public health and environmental protection. Speaking after touring the Accra Compost and Recycling Plant, President Mnangagwa praised Ghana’s progress in modern waste processing. “We have a similar plant in Zimbabwe, and I have been impressed at the levels of modernisation,” Mnangagwa said. The Accra facility is considered a benchmark for integrated waste management, combining composting, recycling, and landfill diversion technologies, a model Zimbabwe is seeking to strengthen through the partnership. Executive Chairman of Geo Pomona, Dilesh Nguwayo, said government backing has been crucial in scaling Zimbabwe’s waste infrastructure. “Our project was granted National Priority status and the Government guaranteed it in support of investment. In door-to-door waste management, we collected more than 70,000 tonnes using our compactor trucks. We also have the biggest sorting plant in Southern Africa,” Nguwayo said. Environmental economist Dr Gift Mugano told Southerton Business Times that such partnerships are essential for developing countries. “Public-private partnerships in waste management improve efficiency, create jobs and reduce environmental hazards. Zimbabwe can benefit from Ghana’s experience in scaling community-based waste collection and recycling systems,” he said. An Accra-based waste management officer, Kwame Asare, who witnessed the presidential tour, said the visit highlights growing African cooperation. “We have seen real improvements here — cleaner communities and more jobs. If Zimbabwe adopts similar systems, it will make a big difference,” he said. The waste management agreement forms part of a broader Zimbabwe–Ghana economic cooperation framework focused on trade expansion, industrialisation, and knowledge exchange. The Jospong Group of Companies operates more than 60 subsidiaries across Africa and Asia, specialising in sanitation, recycling, and environmental services. Its collaboration with Geo Pomona Waste Management is expected to facilitate technology transfer and skills development. Experts say the deal aligns with continental goals under the African Union to promote sustainable development and climate resilience. As Zimbabwe battles mounting urban waste challenges, the partnership signals a shift toward modern, investment-driven solutions with the potential to transform refuse collection, boost recycling rates, and improve environmental sustainability. Zimbabwe Ghana waste management deal