Household cooking gas cylinder close-up HARARE  – The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has announced a sharp increase in Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) prices  for April 2026, raising the cost to US$1.85 per kilogramme, up from US$1.56 in March. The adjustment comes as part of the regulator’s monthly fuel price review, conducted under the Petroleum (Liquid Petroleum Gas Pricing) Regulations of 2021. ZERA said LPG operators may still sell the product below the prescribed price depending on their “trading advantages,” offering some flexibility in the market. The LPG increase follows recent fuel price adjustments that have seen both petrol and diesel costs edge upward. Petrol (Blend E5) has been increased to US$2.23 per litre, up from US$2.17, while diesel (50) now stands at US$2.11 per litre, rising from US$2.05. The latest hikes come after two earlier increases implemented on March 4 and March 18, reflecting ongoing pressure in global and regional fuel markets. In a move aimed at cushioning consumers and businesses, Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube announced the temporary removal of taxes and levies on diesel on April 2. According to ZERA, the intervention prevented a steeper increase, with projections indicating diesel prices could have surged to US$2.65 per litre without the relief measures. The suspended taxes totalling US$0.54 per litre include: Excise Duty ZINARA Road Levy Carbon Tax Strategic Reserve Levy However, petrol taxes remain unchanged. ZERA has indicated that petrol prices could ease in upcoming reviews, driven by increased ethanol production and a higher blending ratio. The regulator said a shift toward E20 blending, which increases ethanol content in petrol, could lower pump prices by approximately 18 US cents per litre. Energy analysts say the move could provide partial relief to motorists while supporting local ethanol producers. The increase in LPG prices is expected to affect household energy costs, particularly in urban areas where gas is widely used for cooking. Small businesses, especially in the food sector, are also likely to feel the impact as energy expenses continue to rise. ZERA LPG prices April 2026

Commissioner Paul Nyathi   MASVINGO  – A dark cloud has fallen over the Tynwald North  community in Harare following a devastating road traffic accident that claimed the lives of a mother and her five children on Thursday, April 2, 2026. The head-on collision occurred at the 246 km peg along the Harare-Masvingo Road at approximately 09:50 AM. In a statement issued on Good Friday, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi  confirmed that the victims' next of kin have identified them. The deceased are: Lilian Maranda Mujuru (40) – The driver and mother. Nokutenda Mujuru (15) Makanaka Mujuru (13) Ronald Junior Mujuru (11) Rufaro Shalom Mujuru (7) Kayden Mujuru (3) Reports indicate the family was traveling from Harare to Zvishavane for the Easter break when the Toyota Corolla veered into the oncoming lane and collided with a Mercedes-Benz haulage truck. Commissioner Nyathi took the opportunity to address and dismiss viral social media claims suggesting that the accident was caused by a high-speed pursuit involving the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC)  and the police. “The Police dismisses any social media insinuation with the contempt it deserves,” Nyathi stated, clarifying that there is no evidence or report linking the tragedy to any law enforcement operations. The accident comes at the start of a busy travel window encompassing both the Easter and Independence holidays. The ZRP has issued an urgent appeal to all motorists to exercise extreme caution, citing the high volume of traffic and the risk of driver fatigue. “We appeal to drivers to seriously consider road safety while moving on the country’s roads,” Nyathi added. The Harare-Masvingo highway remains one of the busiest and most hazardous stretches in the SADC region. Road safety experts often point to several critical factors contributing to accidents on this route: Heavy Haulage Traffic: High volumes of cross-border trucks. Driver Fatigue: Long-distance travel without adequate breaks. Narrow Shoulders: Limited room for maneuver in emergencies. The Southerton Business Times  joins the nation in mourning this profound loss of young life and urges all our readers to prioritize safety above speed during this holiday season. Mujuru family Masvingo accident 2026

Children can drown in as little as 3 cm of water HARARE  – A one-year-old girl has died after drowning in a bucket of water in Nketa, Bulawayo, in a tragic incident that police say highlights the dangers of leaving young children unsupervised. According to Nomalanga Msebele , the Bulawayo Provincial Police Spokesperson, the incident occurred on March 31 at around 4 pm. The toddler had been left in the care of her 11-year-old brother while their 20-year-old mother briefly went to take a bath. “On 31 March 2026 at around 1600 hours, a female adult aged 20 years, of Nketa, Bulawayo, left the now deceased playing with her brother, a male juvenile aged 11 years of the same address, when she was going to take a bath,” said Msebele. Police said the situation quickly turned tragic when the older sibling realised the child was in danger. Inspector Msebele said the mother heard her son shouting for help while she was in the bathroom. “When she came out of the bathroom, the now deceased had already been taken out of the bucket,” she said. The child was rushed to a nearby private clinic for emergency treatment, but was pronounced dead on arrival. A police report was subsequently filed. Authorities have urged parents and guardians to exercise extreme caution, warning that everyday household containers can pose fatal risks to young children. “Buckets, basins, bathtubs, and water storage containers should always be kept out of reach of children,” Msebele said. Child safety experts note that toddlers can drown in very small amounts of water, often silently and within minutes. Police stressed that young children should never be left unsupervised, even for short periods, particularly around water. The incident has sparked renewed calls for increased awareness around home safety, especially in high-density suburbs where water is often stored in open containers. T oddler drowns in Bulawayo

Sekuru Nyangatayani HARARE  – Prominent Glendale-based traditional healer Peter Chingudzi, widely known as Sekuru Nyangatayani, has publicly endorsed the Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill , arguing that President Emmerson Mnangagwa should be given more time to complete ongoing development projects. Speaking this week, Chingudzi praised what he described as significant progress under the Second Republic, particularly in infrastructure development and investment. “See, the development work we are witnessing under the Second Republic is phenomenal. We have never seen this since Independence,” he said. Chingudzi pointed to economic activity in Mazowe District as evidence of the impact of government policies. “Here in Mazowe District, major businesses have come on board thanks to the ‘open for business’ mantra,” he said. He added that continued leadership would ensure that ongoing projects are completed and expanded. “For continuity, he must proceed,” Chingudzi said. The traditional leader also highlighted infrastructure development across the country, saying it has brought visible improvements to communities. “On the infrastructure front, the Second Republic has proved its mettle not only in Mazowe District but across the entire country,” he said. The government has, in recent years, prioritised road rehabilitation, dam construction, and energy projects as part of its development agenda. The Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 has sparked nationwide debate, with supporters arguing it will enhance policy continuity, while critics warn it could undermine democratic processes. Key proposals in the bill include extending presidential and parliamentary terms, altering the method of electing the president, and changing judicial appointments. Political analysts say endorsements from community leaders and traditional figures may influence public opinion, particularly in rural areas. Chingudzi’s remarks add to a growing list of voices weighing in on the proposed constitutional changes ahead of anticipated public consultations. Observers say the debate is likely to intensify as the bill moves through parliamentary processes. Sekuru Nyangatayani 's statement Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 Zimbabwe

A teacher conducting a lesson in an African classroom A new report by Transparency International has uncovered widespread corruption in education systems across Africa, warning of a “direct assault on human rights” affecting countries including Zimbabwe. Titled “Left Behind: Corruption in education and health services in Africa,” the study examines systemic failures in Zimbabwe, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Madagascar, and Rwanda. One of the report’s most alarming findings is the prevalence of “sextortion” in African schools, where students are allegedly coerced into providing sexual favours in exchange for grades, school placements, internships, or scholarships. Paul Banoba, Africa regional advisor at Transparency International, said: “The evidence shows that discriminatory and gendered corruption is entrenched across systems.” Researchers note that such cases are significantly underreported due to stigma and fear of retaliation, leaving many victims without recourse. The report singles out Zimbabwe as facing particularly acute issues, with 72% of respondents acknowledging bribery in school admissions. A teacher cited in the study said exam paper leaks, once isolated, have become widespread: “Exam leakages are no longer rare incidents—they are now happening across many schools.” The findings point to growing concerns over exam fraud in Zimbabwe , including allegations that some educators access papers in advance or even complete exams on behalf of students in exchange for bribes. The report highlights how corruption disproportionately affects vulnerable groups, including rural learners, children with disabilities, and low-income households. In Madagascar, more than 60% of parents of children with disabilities reported exclusion from education due to illicit fees. In the DRC, over 56% of respondents said they had paid or witnessed bribes to secure school placements. In Zimbabwe, informal payments and favouritism in education access are increasingly common, creating barriers for disadvantaged students. Experts say poor remuneration is a key factor behind the rise in corruption. Education analyst Albert Rwego Kavatiri noted that weak accountability systems and underpaid teachers contribute to unethical practices: “When oversight structures lack authority and protection, corruption becomes normalised within institutions.” In Zimbabwe, low and unstable salaries have pushed some teachers into private tutoring despite it being prohibited, creating a two-tier education system where only those who can afford extra lessons benefit. The report also identifies broader governance challenges, including: Payroll fraud involving “ghost workers” in countries like Ghana Weak procurement and oversight systems Lack of protection for whistleblowers Poor enforcement of anti-corruption laws These failures, researchers say, allow corruption to flourish across education systems. Transparency International is urging governments to implement reforms such as: Digitised payroll systems to eliminate ghost workers Stronger whistleblower protections Clear criminalisation of sextortion Improved accountability and monitoring mechanisms The organisation warns that without decisive action, progress toward global development targets could be undermined. “Corruption in education is not a victimless administrative failure,” Banoba said.“It is a barrier that continues to block the path toward a fair and equal society.” The Transparency International education corruption report 2026  underscores the urgent need for systemic reform in Zimbabwe and across Africa. Analysts say restoring integrity in education will be critical to ensuring equal access, protecting students, and safeguarding the future of national development. corruption in Zimbabwe education system

Brigadier General Esmaeil Qaani, Commander of the IRGC Quds Force TEHRAN  – In a move that fundamentally alters the security architecture of the Middle East, Brigadier General Esmaeil Qaani, Commander of the IRGC Quds Force, has issued a stark ultimatum to the Zionist regime. Following a month of unprecedented escalation, Qaani declared on Monday that the "resistance front" has achieved a unified strategic command, signaling a "New Regional Order"  that Israeli and U.S. forces can no longer ignore. General Qaani’s remarks, shared via his official X account, come in the wake of the devastating February 28 assassination of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei . This event triggered a large-scale, unprovoked U.S.-Israeli military campaign characterized by extensive aerial strikes on Iranian military and civilian infrastructure. However, Qaani argues that the objective to isolate Iran has failed. Instead, he points to the "intelligent and courageous fire" from Hezbollah in the north and Ansarullah in the south as proof that Israel’s security promises to its settlers are "false." “The aspiration of the martyred commanders of the resistance has been realized: the war room of the resistance front is one,” Qaani underlined. “Get used to the new regional order.” The most significant shift in the conflict occurred on Saturday, March 28, when the Yemeni Armed Forces officially announced their direct military intervention. Breaking from their previous role of indirect support, Yemen confirmed the launch of ballistic missiles targeting "sensitive military targets" in the southern occupied territories of Palestine. General Yahya Saree, spokesperson for the Yemeni forces, stated that this operation was a direct response to the ongoing "crimes and killings" perpetrated against brothers in Lebanon, Iran, Iraq, and Palestine. This first military operation by Yemen is viewed as a definitive pivot toward a multi-front war, synchronized with retaliatory strikes from Iran and Hezbollah. For global markets and regional observers, this "New Order" introduces extreme volatility. The official entry of Yemen, possessing significant ballistic capabilities and a strategic position near the Red Sea, raises immediate alarms for: Maritime Security: Potential disruptions to the Bab al-Mandab Strait, affecting international trade routes. Energy Stability: Heightened risk to regional oil infrastructure as the theater of war expands. Defense Logistics: A "unified war room" suggests that future strikes will be coordinated across multiple borders, challenging the efficacy of localized air defense systems. As the Iranian Armed Forces continue their retaliatory drone and missile operations against regional U.S. and Israeli bases, the message from Tehran is clear: the era of contained, localized skirmishes is over. The "New Regional Order" is a reality that is reshaping the geopolitical landscape of 2026 in real-time. New Regional Order General Qaani 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be held in the US, Canada, and Mexico. HARARE  – This year’s 2026 FIFA World Cup is being promoted as a landmark celebration of global football, but a new report by Amnesty International has raised concerns over potential human rights risks facing fans. The tournament, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to attract millions of supporters from around the world. However, Amnesty says the experience on the ground may fall short of the inclusive and welcoming environment promised by organisers. In its report, Amnesty highlights growing risks related to freedom of expression, policing practices, and surveillance measures, particularly in the United States, which will host the majority of matches. The organisation points to concerns over aggressive immigration enforcement, mass detentions, and the potential for increased monitoring of fans during the tournament. “Security measures must not come at the expense of fundamental rights,” Amnesty said, warning that excessive policing could undermine civil liberties. The report also raises concerns about barriers facing international fans, including strict visa requirements and, in some cases, financial guarantees or bond payments for travellers from certain countries. Analysts say such restrictions could limit access for supporters from the Global South, potentially affecting the tournament’s diversity and inclusivity. In Mexico, Amnesty flagged the large-scale deployment of security forces, warning that it could affect how protests or public gatherings are managed during the tournament. In Canada, the organisation said some social services have reportedly been disrupted or redirected to support World Cup logistics, raising questions about the broader social impact of hosting the event. Authorities across the three host nations maintain that security remains the top priority, given the scale and global profile of the tournament. Organisers say coordinated planning is underway to ensure fan safety, smooth travel, and effective crowd management across all venues. Human rights experts say the challenge for host countries will be balancing security needs with the protection of civil liberties. “Mega sporting events often come with heightened security, but transparency and accountability are critical,” said a Harare-based international relations analyst. With the countdown to kick-off underway, the report adds pressure on organisers to address concerns and ensure the tournament delivers both a safe and inclusive experience for fans. As preparations intensify, the spotlight is now not only on football but also on how host nations uphold rights during one of the world’s biggest sporting events. Amnesty World Cup 2026 report

Kunzvi Dam holding water HARARE  – Treasury has released an additional US$1 million towards the construction of the Kunzvi–Harare water pipeline , bringing total funding for the project to over US$4.18 million, officials have confirmed. The project, being implemented by the Zimbabwe National Water Authority , is a key component of efforts to address chronic water shortages in Harare. ZINWA resident engineer Johanne Mwase said the latest funding injection has accelerated work on the ground. “We have received US$1 million this year from the Treasury to continue with our operations. We have procured pipes for the next 3km, so at the moment we are at 9 percent completion,” Mwase said. The 48-kilometre pipeline will transport raw water from Kunzvi Dam to a treatment plant to be constructed in Donnybrook, on the eastern outskirts of Harare. Mwase said progress has improved significantly following the funding boost. “We were at 2.5km before we received these funds. Per month, we will be laying 1km. About 5km of the pipeline route has been cleared and set out for excavation and pipe delivery on site,” he added. Once complete, the pipeline is expected to deliver up to 240 megalitres of water per day, significantly improving supply to Harare residents and industries. The capital has long struggled with water shortages due to ageing infrastructure, population growth, and limited capacity at existing treatment plants. Urban planning experts say the Kunzvi project is critical to stabilising water supply in the medium to long term. Meanwhile, construction of Kunzvi Dam itself is now about 70% complete and has already begun holding water. ZINWA corporate communications manager Marjorie Munyonga said parallel work is ongoing to address the social impact of the project. Munyonga said relocation and compensation efforts are being implemented for families affected by the dam. “So far, 144 houses have been constructed on the Murehwa side and 24 on the Goromonzi side,” she said. The housing developments are part of a broader resettlement programme aimed at supporting displaced communities and ensuring a smooth transition. With funding now increasing and construction advancing, authorities say the project is steadily moving toward becoming a major solution to Harare’s water crisis. However, analysts note that sustained financing and timely execution will be key to ensuring the pipeline delivers on its promise. Kunzvi Harare water pipeline

US Ambassador Pamela Tremont with the President of Zimbabwe HARARE  – The United States Embassy in Harare  has officially launched "Freedom 250,"  a global com memorative initiative marking the 250th anniversary of American independence. The program is set to serve as a high-impact platform for deepening bilateral relations with Zimbabwe through a year-long series of projects focused on economic cooperation, healthcare innovation, and human capital development. Speaking at the launch, US Ambassador Pamela Tremont  underscored the historical weight of the relationship, reminding stakeholders that the United States was the first nation to establish a diplomatic mission in Zimbabwe following its independence in 1980. "This is a historic year for the United States," Ambassador Tremont noted. "President Donald Trump has launched a year of events... to commemorate 250 years of independence under the banner of Freedom 250." A cornerstone of the 46-year partnership remains the PEPFAR  program, which has been instrumental in Zimbabwe’s pursuit of the global 95-95-95 HIV targets. Tremont highlighted that the next phase of this partnership will be driven by cutting-edge American medical innovation, including the rollout of Lenacapavir , a revolutionary long-acting HIV prevention option. The "Freedom 250" initiative will double down on educational and exchange programs, which have already produced a formidable network of Zimbabwean leaders. Key programs highlighted include: The Mandela Washington Fellowship: Targeting young African leaders in business and civic engagement. The Fulbright Program: Promoting academic excellence and cross-border research. Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship: Building professional expertise in public policy and leadership. “These programmes have empowered participants to return home and lead in government, business, academia, and civil society,” Tremont added, signaling a continued commitment to nurturing Zimbabwe's "intellectual infrastructure." For the business community, "Freedom 250" signals a predictable and stable framework for engagement. As the initiative rolls out through 2026, it is expected to feature collaborative projects that move beyond traditional aid, focusing instead on entrepreneurship and sustainable economic growth. US Freedom 250 Zimbabwe 2026

First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa HARARE  – In a move aimed at bridging the gap between academic theory and practical leadership, First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa  has officially launched the Youth Vanguard Movement  at the University of Zimbabwe (UZ). The initiative is being positioned as a "transformative platform" designed to cultivate a new generation of disciplined, action-oriented, and ethically grounded leaders. Announcing the development on her official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday, the First Lady described the Saturday launch as a pivotal moment for youth empowerment. The movement is structured around three core pillars: Mentorship, Discipline, and Practical Skills. “Yesterday, I launched the Youth Vanguard Movement at the University of Zimbabwe, a transformative platform to prepare, inspire and empower our young people to become responsible, ethical and action-oriented leaders,” she posted. The movement seeks to move beyond traditional classroom settings by creating tangible opportunities for students to innovate and serve their communities. By aligning youth energy with national development goals, the platform aims to produce graduates who are not only job-seekers but "solutions-providers" for the nation. Addressing the inaugural cohort of the movement, the First Lady urged the youth to "rise above fear and limitations," emphasizing that a united and prosperous nation depends on the proactive participation of its youngest citizens. “Together, we can build a united, empowered and prosperous nation,” she added, echoing the broader Vision 2030 sentiment of "leaving no one and no place behind." For stakeholders in the business and development sectors, the Youth Vanguard Movement represents a potential pipeline for high-caliber talent. As Zimbabwe continues its trajectory toward an upper-middle-income economy, the focus on "ethical and responsible leadership" at the university level is seen as a critical safeguard against corporate and public sector malfeasance in the future. Youth Vanguard Movement launch 2026

Journalist and political analyst Rutendo Matinyarare HARARE  – Prominent political analyst and journalist Rutendo Matinyarare  has sparked a national debate on fiscal priorities, suggesting that President Emmerson Mnangagwa is being "misled" into channelling vast resources toward a term-extension campaign rather than critical public infrastructure. Matinyarare’s critique centers on the massive financial and logistical machinery currently deployed across provinces like Matabeleland North and Mashonaland West to build support for Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3. He posits that these funds could have achieved a "natural" surge in public support if they had been directed toward the healthcare and transport sectors. "Imagine how many more roads, cancer machines or ambulances our President could have bought with the money he is using to campaign for the extension of his term?" Matinyarare posted. He argued that a legacy built on infrastructure, such as the ongoing rehabilitation of the Harare-Chirundu highway or the procurement of radiotherapy equipment, would garner more authentic political capital than a legislative campaign for a third term. A significant portion of Matinyarare's analysis focused on the quality of executive counsel. He suggested that the President has become "disconnected with the pulse of what the people want," attributing this to an inner circle of "yes-men" rather than honest advisors. In the context of Vision 2030, Matinyarare’s comments highlight a growing concern among some analysts that the focus on "political survival" may be cannibalizing the budget required for the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) . For the business community and international observers, this critique raises questions about Zimbabwe's political risk profile. If resources are diverted from developmental pillars to constitutional maneuvers, it may affect the pace of economic recovery. Matinyarare concluded by urging the President to prioritize a "good legacy" through service delivery, warning that the current path, while securing immediate political goals, may erode long-term historical standing. Rutendo Matinyarare Amendment 3 critique

Engineers working on a massive water main at the Warren Control pump station in Harare HARARE  – The City of Harare  has issued a final assurance to residents and the business community that the major maintenance works at Warren Control are in their concluding stages. Following a rigorous 72-hour emergency repair cycle, water is expected to begin flowing back into the city’s taps by late this evening, Monday, March 30, 2026. The crisis began on Friday, March 27, when a catastrophic pipe burst forced the immediate decommissioning of the Warren Control facility. As the primary distribution hub for the greater Harare area, the shutdown effectively severed the water supply to the CBD and dozens of surrounding suburbs. Council spokesperson Stanley Gama explained that the "all-hands-on-deck" intervention was necessary not only to fix the immediate rupture but to scour the system and assess the structural integrity of the aging pipeline network. Since the shutdown, teams of city engineers and support staff, led by Senior Superintendent Chirenje, have been working 24-hour shifts to manage what Gama described as a "mammoth task." While the council initially aimed for a midnight completion on Sunday, unforeseen technical hurdles extended the repair window into Monday. “I’m happy to inform residents that we have finally overcome the hurdles and the teams are putting final touches to the task,” Gama stated during a site visit today. “Our engineers have been working tirelessly to ensure normal supply is restored while guaranteeing lasting repairs.” The City has cautioned that the return of water will not be instantaneous for all areas. The restoration is a "delicate process" that requires specific pressure-management procedures to prevent further bursts in the distribution lines. Residents are advised that as the system re-pressurizes, they may experience initial airlocks or temporary turbidity. The Council expressed its gratitude to the residents for their patience during a weekend that saw significant disruption to both domestic and commercial activities. Harare water restoration March 2026