Paul Tungwarara HARARE —  President Emmerson Mnangagwa  has broadened the remit of Paul Tungwarara, elevating him from an adviser focused mainly on Dubai affairs to a presidential advisor with responsibilities across all regions, including an added emphasis on empowerment initiatives. A letter of appointment issued by the Presidency states that Tungwarara will serve a renewable two‑year term and is authorised to “conduct mutual engagements on behalf of the Government” on matters within his remit. The letter asks that relevant authorities grant him the same privileges, facilities, and immunities afforded to other presidential advisors. Appointment details Role expanded: From Dubai‑focused adviser to regional adviser covering all regions. Term: Renewable two‑year appointment. Authority: Empowered to conduct mutual engagements on behalf of the government. Privileges: Request for authorities to extend the same privileges and immunities as other presidential advisors. The appointment letter explicitly asks that institutions and officials recognise Tungwarara’s status and provide the customary support and facilities accorded to presidential advisors. Tungwarara was co‑opted into the ZANU PF Central Committee in December 2025 , a move that signalled his growing influence within the ruling party. The expanded advisory brief and the empowerment focus align with broader government priorities on regional engagement and socio‑economic empowerment programmes. Observers note the appointment consolidates Tungwarara’s public profile and formalises a role that may involve diplomatic, investment, and community empowerment activities across Zimbabwe’s regions. While the appointment letter sets out a broad mandate, expected areas of activity include: Mutual engagements with regional stakeholders, investors, and development partners. Coordination of empowerment initiatives aimed at skills development, enterprise support, and local economic projects. Representation of government interests in regional forums where presidential advisory input is required. The request for privileges and immunities suggests Tungwarara may undertake official travel and high‑level meetings on behalf of the Presidency. The expanded brief could strengthen government outreach but may also draw scrutiny over oversight, accountability, and the scope of advisory powers. Paul Tungwarara appointment 2026

Tawanda Maswanhise in action for Motherwell FC during a Scottish Premiership match HARARE  – Zimbabwe international forward Tawanda Maswanhise has been ruled out of the upcoming Four Nations Tournament in Botswana , after his Scottish club Motherwell FC confirmed he picked up a minor injury over the weekend. The in-form striker sustained the knock during a goalless draw against Hibernian FC, forcing him to withdraw from national team duty. The decision means Maswanhise will miss the regional tournament scheduled for March 23–31, featuring Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, and Malawi. According to Motherwell, the decision to keep the forward in Scotland is precautionary, aimed at managing his fitness during a crucial stage of the domestic season. “We’re taking no risks with him at this point,” a club official told local Scottish media. “It’s a minor issue, but one that needs proper management to avoid long-term complications.” Maswanhise has been one of Zimbabwe’s standout performers abroad this season, making his absence a significant blow to the Warriors’ preparations ahead of key international fixtures later this year. However, reaction among Zimbabwean football fans has been sharply divided, highlighting deeper tensions around the national team setup. On social media platforms, some supporters expressed relief at the development, citing concerns over player welfare and past handling of injuries during international duty. “I’d rather he stays and recovers properly than risk being rushed back,” said Harare-based football fan Tafadzwa Moyo. “We’ve seen players come back worse before.” Others pointed to longstanding frustrations with the Zimbabwe Football Association, with criticism ranging from team management to broader governance issues. Zimbabwean football analyst Brighton Chiweshe said the reaction reflects more than just disappointment over one player’s absence. “This isn’t just about Maswanhise,” Chiweshe told Southerton Business Times . “It speaks to a trust deficit between fans and the national team structures. Every incident becomes a flashpoint because supporters are already sceptical.” The Four Nations Tournament, to be held in Francistown, is seen as a key opportunity for Zimbabwe to fine-tune combinations and assess squad depth ahead of competitive fixtures, including World Cup qualifiers. Head coach Baltemar Brito is now expected to reshuffle his attacking options, with fringe players likely to be given a chance to impress in Maswanhise’s absence. Despite the setback, some analysts argue the situation could present an opportunity for emerging talent. “International tournaments like this are about building depth,” said regional football scout Kabelo Ndlovu. “While Maswanhise is a loss, it opens the door for other players to step up and stake their claim.” For now, the Warriors will proceed without one of their most in-form forwards, while fans continue to debate what his absence really means, not just for the tournament, but for the future of Zimbabwean football. Tawanda Maswanhise injury

Healthcare workers on strike in Harare HARARE, ZIMBABWE  – Nurses at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals went on strike on Monday, 23 March 2026, demanding urgent salary reviews and improved working conditions as Zimbabwe’s cost of living continues to rise. The industrial action comes amid growing pressure on the public health sector, with nurses saying their current earnings no longer cover basic needs. Nurses involved in the strike said their salaries, estimated at around US$450 per month, paid in a mix of US dollars and ZiG, have been eroded by inflation and rising transport costs. “We are earning peanuts while everything else is going up,” one striking nurse said outside the hospital. Health workers are demanding a transport allowance, arguing that commuting has become increasingly unaffordable, particularly after recent fuel price increases. They also rejected transport provided by the Public Service Commission (PSC) , saying the buses do not align with shift schedules. Beyond salaries, nurses are calling for: Free medical care at public hospitals Increased housing allowances to match rising rentals Improved provision of uniforms Some nurses said they are unable to afford healthcare themselves, despite working in the public health system. “We can’t even afford treatment at the hospitals we work in,” another nurse said. Uniform shortages have also become symbolic of deeper systemic challenges, with staff saying worn-out attire reflects underfunding rather than a lack of professionalism. The latest action comes days after nurses at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital, formerly Harare Hospital, briefly went on strike over similar concerns. During that protest, nurses held placards and sang outside the hospital, demanding salary adjustments in line with the rising cost of living. Healthcare analysts say the strike highlights broader challenges facing Zimbabwe’s public health sector, including low wages, staff shortages, and rising operational costs. “The combination of inflation, currency instability, and fuel price increases is putting immense pressure on frontline workers,” said a Harare-based health policy expert. The strike is expected to disrupt services at one of Zimbabwe’s largest referral hospitals, raising concerns about access to care for patients relying on public healthcare. Authorities had not immediately commented on the strike at the time of publication. Parirenyatwa nurses strike

Emergency responders assisting rescued villagers HARARE, ZIMBABWE   – The Air Force of Zimbabwe has rescued 13 villagers, including infants and elderly people, who were stranded by rising floodwaters at Mazuva Dam along the Mwenezi River in Chiredzi District. The group, from Magwambani Village under Chief Sengwe, had been cut off after water levels surged following heavy rains across Masvingo Province. Authorities said the rescue operation prioritised vulnerable individuals, with the group including a three-month-old baby and a 72-year-old elder. The stranded villagers were airlifted to safety in a coordinated emergency response, as floodwaters made ground access impossible. The operation highlights the growing impact of seasonal flooding across southern Zimbabwe, where swollen rivers and dams have left communities isolated. Speaking to Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation , AFZ Director of Operations Joseph Mavengere said the military remains on high alert to assist during disasters. “Let me assure the nation that the Zimbabwe Defence Forces remains fully committed to protecting lives. We stand ready at all times to respond to emergencies,” he said. Mavengere said the Zimbabwe Defence Forces are strengthening their disaster response capabilities in light of increasing climate-related emergencies. “Our focus is on strengthening both capacity and capability… investing in advanced training, modernising equipment, and enhancing coordination with national and regional partners,” he said. He added that the force is adopting new technologies, including improved aerial surveillance and communication systems, to enable faster and more effective responses. Disaster management experts warn that extreme weather events are becoming more frequent, increasing the risk of flooding in low-lying and riverine communities. Recent heavy rains have caused rivers across Masvingo Province to swell, leaving several areas vulnerable to isolation and displacement. Authorities are urging communities in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and avoid crossing flooded rivers. The successful rescue operation underscores the critical role of coordinated emergency services in responding to natural disasters and protecting lives. Chiredzi flood rescue Zimbabwe

Damaged hospital building in Darfur after an airstrike HARARE, ZIMBABWE  – At least 64 people, including 13 children, were killed in a strike on a hospital in Sudan’s Darfur region , the World Health Organization has confirmed, as international concern mounts over escalating attacks on healthcare facilities in the country’s ongoing war. The attack targeted El-Daein Teaching Hospital in the state capital of East Darfur on Friday, leaving 89 others injured, according to WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “The hospital was struck, killing at least 64 people, including 13 children, two female nurses, one male doctor, and multiple patients,” Tedros said. The strike caused extensive damage to critical departments, including paediatric, maternity, and emergency units, effectively shutting down the hospital. Tedros said the facility is now non-functional, resulting in a “critical interruption of essential medical services” in a region already facing severe shortages. Eight healthcare workers were among those injured. Sudanese rights group Emergency Lawyers reported the strike was carried out by a drone operated by the Sudanese army, though this has not been independently verified. The conflict pits the Sudanese Armed Forces against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which controls much of the Darfur region, including El-Daein. In a statement carried by state media, the army denied targeting civilian infrastructure and instead accused the RSF of routinely attacking public facilities. The WHO’s surveillance system for attacks on healthcare does not assign blame but verifies incidents. Friday’s strike adds to a growing number of deadly attacks on medical facilities since the war began in April 2023. WHO data shows more than 2,000 people have now been killed in over 200 attacks on healthcare facilities during the conflict. The trend has worsened sharply: 2023: 64 attacks, 38 deaths 2024: 72 attacks, 200 deaths 2025: 65 attacks, 1,620 deaths “Beyond the devastating human toll, attacks on healthcare have immediate and long-term consequences for communities already in desperate need,” Tedros said. The war in Sudan has killed tens of thousands and displaced more than 11 million people, creating what the United Nations describes as the world’s largest displacement and hunger crisis. More than 33 million people are now in need of humanitarian assistance. The United Nations humanitarian office said it was “appalled” by the hospital strike , while UN human rights chief Volker Türk recently warned about the increasing use of drones in populated areas. Tedros renewed calls for an immediate de-escalation of the conflict and protection of civilians and medical workers. “Health care should never be a target. Peace is the best medicine,” he said.“Enough blood has been spilled. Enough suffering has been inflicted.” Sudan hospital attack Darfur

Lenacapavir Harare, Zimbabwe- Zimbabwe has become one of the first ten African nations to launch the rollout of Lenacapavir , a breakthrough HIV prevention drug developed by Gilead Sciences . Unlike traditional Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) , which requires a daily pill, Lenacapavir is administered via an injection every six months, offering what experts call "near-total protection" for high-risk groups. For sex workers like Constance Mukoloka, the shift from a pill bottle to a biannual injection is not just about convenience, it is about economic survival. The "Pill Bottle" Stigma: Clients often mistake PrEP for HIV treatment (ART). Seeing a container of pills can lead to fear and lost income. Adherence: In high-pressure environments where alcohol or unpredictable schedules are factors, a daily pill is easily missed. Confidentiality: The injection leaves no physical trace in a person's belongings, protecting their privacy and professional standing. The current phase is a targeted, donor-supported initiative aimed at the most vulnerable demographics: Target Reach: 46,000 people across 24 sites. Eligibility: Sex workers, adolescent girls/young women (AGYW), gay men, and pregnant/breastfeeding women. Funding: Supported by PEPFAR and the Global Fund, as the Zimbabwean government currently lacks the fiscal space for a nationwide mass purchase. Despite the excitement, Dr. Ernest Chikwati of the Aids Healthcare Foundation urges caution. He notes that while Lenacapavir is a turning point, it is not a "silver bullet." Cost vs. Access: While the drug is currently free for 46,000 people, scaling to a population of 15 million remains a massive financial hurdle. Holistic Prevention: Condoms remain the most cost-effective tool against both HIV and STIs, and high-cost injectables must not cannibalize their funding. Infrastructure Gaps: Maintaining patient engagement at six-month intervals requires a robust tracking system to ensure they return for their second dose. Cesar Nunez (UNAIDS) warns that the reliance on foreign assistance is a double-edged sword. With aid cuts looming, UNAIDS anticipates that a lack of community-led funding could contribute to 1.4 million new infections annually by 2030 globally. Lenacapavir HIV prevention Zimbabwe

Mutsine (Bidens pilosa or Blackjack) By Dr. Precious Sibiya I remember growing up and hating mutsine, not because of its taste. We never dreamed that this weed would be a delicacy. The nonsensical Mutsine would practically invite itself and follow you home, clinging to your clothes. You would have to be extremely patient to remove mutsine from especially woolen clothes. I confess to throwing away one of two mutsine-infested clothes. When I was over thirty, I started appreciating the value of mutsine and forgave its waywardness. It’s one of the most wonderful vegetables God made, but less appreciated. The problem would have been averted if mutsine had been classified correctly. A weed is an enemy and must be destroyed to save the real harvest! We are still in transition to embracing most “weeds” as nutrient-dense native vegetables! I trust that you will forgive mutsine for spoiling your clothes as we explore its wonderful health benefits in this week’s feature. Mutsine (Bidens pilosa or Blackjack) is a nutrient-dense African indigenous leafy vegetable packed with vitamins A, C, and E, offering high antioxidant protection. It is used to treat indigestion, diarrhoea, and respiratory infections, while studies suggest it can lower fasting blood sugar in diabetics and reduce inflammation. It’s said that one plant alone can produce up to 6,000 seeds a year, which can live for around five to six years. This amazing plant, if fully recognized, has the potential to transform our health as humanity. And animals too!! Key Health Benefits of Mutsine  Key Health Benefits of Mutsine  Nutrient-Rich: Contains high levels of vitamins A, C, and E, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and chronic diseases. Diabetes Management: Research indicates it can help lower fasting blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Digestive Health: It is traditionally used to treat ailments such as diarrhoea, dysentery, and indigestion. Medicinal Properties: Known for potential anti-inflammatory properties, it is used to treat wounds and respiratory infections. Anti-aging: mutsine has a retinol-like effect on skin in that it can help treat the effects of skin aging and photoaging (e.g., fine lines, wrinkles, looser skin, spots, and pigmentation). No one dares call anyone mbuya Dhori with mutsine in abundance. Weight loss: Mutsine has anti-obesity action which curbs appetite and fat digestion/absorption and/or increases lipid breakdown, as well as energy use. For my “throw-in” brigade, it’s time to embrace mutsine and enjoy great health! Mutsine and cardiovascular health: because of its high fibre levels, mutsine is believed to help reduce bad cholesterol levels while increasing good cholesterol, preventing plaque build-up in blood vessels, and reducing the risk of experiencing heart attacks and strokes. Anti-cancer: mutsine has antioxidant properties and may inhibit the growth of tumor cells, although more studies are needed to confirm this effect. Blood pressure: It’s rich in flavonoids and antioxidants that promote blood pressure regulation and muscle relaxation. Allergy Relief: mutsine relieves allergy symptoms because it can inhibit histamine release, which is associated with allergic reactions. Reduce inflammation: mutsine is anti-inflammatory, making it useful for helping relieve joint pain and sore throat by regulating inflammatory cytokines. Support gastrointestinal health: mutsine extract can reduce gastric juice volume and acid and pepsin secretion, while also showing anti-ulcer properties. Traditional Mutsine Recipe  Ingredients: 1 bunch fresh Mutsine (blackjack leaves), 1 large tomato (chopped), 1 medium onion (chopped), 250ml boiling water, 1/2 tsp salt, 3 tbsp oil. Method: Wash the leaves thoroughly and chop them. Put boiling water in a pot, add the blackjack leaves, and boil for 5 minutes. Drain the water, reserving just a tablespoon. Return the leaves to the pot. Add tomatoes, onions, salt, oil, and the reserved tablespoon of water. Simmer for 2–5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and flavors mingle. Mutsine with Mince: Prepare as above, but add 300g browned mince, carrots, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce for a savory meal. Mutsine in Peanut Butter: Similar to leafy greens, add peanut butter (dovi) for a thicker, richer taste. Dried Mutsine (Mufushwa): Rehydrate dried blackjack leaves before cooking, similarly to the fresh recipe. Mbuya Nehanda Omelette: named by my dreadlocked friend. This is a game-changing recipe of Mutsine, pumpkin flowers, including the baby pumpkin, chopped fresh okra, moringa leaves, fresh chillies, fresh oregano, garlic, tomatoes, and onions. Just mix all ingredients with road runner chicken eggs. Add salt and fry to your liking. Serve on brown toast. Enjoy! Mutsine salad Side effects of Mutsine While some research has been conducted into mutsinés' impact on animal and human health, and it has traditionally been used as a source of food and medicinally worldwide, more research is required, particularly in relation to its effect on the human body. If you intend on using mutsine for health reasons, always speak to a medical professional first to make sure it’s safe for you to do so. As for using Mutsine as a natural retinoid, always conduct a patch test first to see how your skin responds to it before applying it fully or on a regular basis. Disclaimer This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here. About the Author Dr. Precious Sibiya  is a certified Wellness Practitioner, stroke survivor, and advocate for natural healing and lifestyle. Contact:  +263775369467 | Email:   precioussibiya2014@gmail.com Mutsine health benefits I

The late Ayatollah Khamenei and President Mnangagwa HARARE, ZIMBABWE  – The Government of Zimbabwe has completed the evacuation of its citizens from Iran, including students and non-essential embassy staff, as tensions escalate following military strikes involving the United States and Israel. Authorities confirmed that essential diplomatic personnel have been relocated to Armenia, where they are continuing to monitor developments in the region. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Albert Chimbindi , said evacuations were carried out following requests from Zimbabweans based in Iran. “So far, the only people who are back are some citizens who were in Iran, and these are the non-essential staff as well as students,” Chimbindi said.“These are the only ones who indicated that they need to be evacuated.” He added that some diplomatic officers remain deployed in Armenia to coordinate monitoring and response efforts. The government says all Zimbabwean embassies in the region have activated contingency plans in case the conflict spreads further. “All our embassies have contingency measures in place in case they need to be evacuated,” Chimbindi said. Zimbabwe’s diplomatic missions in countries such as the United Arab Emirates have also been in communication with nationals, providing updates and guidance through official channels. Authorities are now working to compile updated records of Zimbabwean citizens living across the Middle East, amid concerns that many have not formally registered with embassies. Chimbindi said an estimated 6,000 Zimbabweans are currently based in the UAE, though the exact number may be higher. “In some instances, people do not officially register with their respective embassies until such incidents. So, the process of compiling accurate figures is ongoing,” he said. The evacuations come as Iran has responded to recent strikes with missile and drone attacks across parts of the Middle East, raising fears of a broader regional conflict . Analysts warn that further escalation could disrupt travel, trade, and diplomatic operations, prompting more countries to review evacuation plans for their citizens. Zimbabwean authorities say they remain on high alert and are prepared to assist citizens if conditions deteriorate. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged Zimbabweans in affected regions to stay in contact with embassies and follow official safety guidance. Zimbabwe evacuation Iran

Courtroom gavel  MAZOWE —   A Mazowe man, Abbition July (31) of Sammerdale Farm, has been sentenced to four years in prison after he attacked his mother‑in‑law, Tabeth Bvuwe (60), leaving her with two front teeth knocked out, the court heard. Bindura magistrate Sheila Nazombe handed down the sentence, suspending one year on condition of good behaviour. July had pleaded not guilty but was convicted following evidence presented by the State. Prosecutor Clever Nyapfani  told the court that on 24 February, July went to Bvuwe’s home at about 1:00 am. Bvuwe, who was asleep, was awakened by barking dogs and found July outside demanding to know why his wife was divorcing him. When she did not respond, the prosecutor said that July assaulted her with open hands and then stoned her in the mouth, causing the loss of two front teeth. The attack prompted criminal charges and a trial that concluded with the magistrate imposing a custodial sentence to reflect the seriousness of the assault. Sentence and conditions Sentence: Four years’ imprisonment. Suspension: One year suspended on condition of good behaviour. The court’s decision reflects the gravity of the offence and the physical harm inflicted on a vulnerable victim. Legal observers say the sentence sends a clear message about the consequences of gender‑based and domestic violence . The case highlights risks faced by older family members in domestic disputes and underscores the need for community awareness, protective measures, and timely reporting of violent incidents. Victim support groups and local authorities often urge survivors to seek medical attention and report assaults promptly so that evidence can be preserved and perpetrators held accountable. Mazowe man jailed stoning mother‑in‑law 2026

Artisanal miners working HARARE, ZIMBABWE  – The Zimbabwe Miners Federation has entered into a joint venture with Chinese investor Anhua Chenxi Mining to formalise operations at Ball Mine in Mutawatawa, ending years of conflict and illegal mining activity. The partnership, structured through ZMF’s special purpose vehicle FS Mining, has resulted in the formation of a new entity, RR Mining, aimed at restoring order and boosting gold production at the troubled site. ZMF president Henrietta Rushwaya said the agreement marks a turning point after years of uncontrolled operations dominated by illegal miners. “What was important was to cease operations and create formalisation and professionalisation. We need to understand the needs of the miners and bring everyone under one roof—mining, processing, and selling,” Rushwaya said. Under the deal, Anhua Chenxi Mining holds the tribute agreement covering 430 hectares across 11 mining blocks, while ZMF, through FS Mining, is responsible for formalisation and community integration. Authorities have launched a large-scale registration exercise for artisanal miners, with about 400 already registered against a target of 1,000. Traditional leaders under Chief Chipfungwe are overseeing the register, which is also being shared with the Zimbabwe Republic Police to enhance security and accountability. Miners operating at the site have agreed to sell all ore exclusively to RR Mining, a move expected to curb gold leakages and improve transparency in the supply chain. “We need to put our miners under one roof… that will bring the sanity we have been seeking,” Rushwaya added. The first batch of mining equipment already delivered includes 20 small crushers, 10 centrifuges, generators, air compressors, and drilling rigs. Trial operations are scheduled for March 20–26, with full-scale production expected by late June or early July following the arrival of a second shipment from China, including an additional 100 crushers and several round mills. At peak output, the mine previously produced an estimated 3kg of gold per day, valued at nearly US$500,000, though most of it was lost to illegal trade networks. To improve oversight, a satellite office of Fidelity Gold Refinery will be established on-site, alongside a permanent police post to monitor operations and prevent smuggling. ZMF has also begun community support initiatives, including drilling a borehole at Mungari Primary School to serve nearby communities. Women are expected to benefit from the project through opportunities in food production and the supply of mining consumables. The Ball Mine initiative comes as Zimbabwe targets over 50 tonnes of gold production this year, with artisanal and small-scale miners already contributing more than half of national deliveries. Mining analysts say the Mutawatawa model could serve as a blueprint for formalising other artisanal mining hotspots across the country. “This kind of structured approach combining regulation, investment, and community involvement can significantly reduce leakages and improve national gold earnings,” said a Harare-based mining expert. ZMF Anhua Chenxi Mining partnership

The flooded Mtshabezi River covering the bridge HARARE, ZIMBABWE  – The Mtshabezi River has burst its banks at the Mtshabezi Bridge along Blanket Mine Road, with water levels surpassing previous records after heavy rains pounded Gwanda district. Authorities say the situation remains critical as floodwaters continue to rise, damaging infrastructure and threatening lives. The Civil Protection Unit (CPU) confirmed that the powerful current has destroyed makeshift crossings in the area. “The powerful flow has destroyed the low-hanging makeshift bridge and the second makeshift footbridge near the prison camp at Hamden Plots,” the CPU said. Floodwaters have also swept away gardens at nearby prison plots, while several riverside properties have been affected. Assessment teams are currently on the ground evaluating the extent of the damage. Authorities stressed that the flooding is a direct result of sustained heavy rainfall and not dam releases. “The flooding is due to heavy rains and not the opening of Dondoriyo Dam,” the CPU said. Alerts have been activated for communities downstream of the Tuli River, Mtshabezi River, and Mzingwane River, as water levels continue to rise across the region. Officials also warned that the Mayfair Dam is at capacity and expected to overflow imminently. The CPU said it is investigating reports of a possible drowning at Dondoriyo Dam. Separately, reports from Blanket Mine Farm at Dunbuck Mine indicate that miners were swept away by floodwaters, with some survivors stranded in trees awaiting rescue. Authorities are working to verify the reports and coordinate emergency response efforts. Residents in flood-prone areas have been urged to move to safer ground and avoid crossing rivers. “We urge members of the public to stay away from rivers and vacate homes in flood-prone areas,” the CPU warned. Disaster management officials say the situation remains fluid, with further rainfall likely to worsen conditions in already saturated catchment areas. The flooding highlights growing risks across southern Zimbabwe as heavy rains continue to fill rivers and dams beyond capacity. Experts warn that communities near major water bodies face heightened danger of flash floods, infrastructure damage, and displacement during peak rainfall periods. Authorities say updates will be issued as assessments continue and rescue efforts intensify. Mtshabezi River flooding

Amnesty International   Mutare / London- Amnesty International  has issued a stinging condemnation of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) following the targeted detention of leaders from the Constitutional Defenders Forum (CDF) . While journalist Fanuel Chinowaita and lawyer Nyasha Gerald Mukonyora were released after a "prolonged" detention without charge, CDF convener Tendai Biti and programmes director Morgan Ncube remain in custody, facing formal charges under the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act. The core of the state's case rests on the allegation that Biti and Ncube failed to "notify" the police of a public meeting. However, legal experts and Amnesty International argue that this application of MOPA contradicts the 2013 Constitution. The Charge: Contravening MOPA by holding an unsanctioned gathering. The Constitutional Defense: Section 58 (Freedom of Assembly and Association) and Section 59 (Freedom to Demonstrate and Petition) grant citizens the right to gather peacefully without requiring "permission," only "notification." Amnesty’s Position: The organization maintains that the detainees were "peacefully exercising their constitutionally protected rights" and that the notification requirement is being used as a de facto ban on dissent. The selective release of the journalist and lawyer, while keeping the political leadership of the CDF detained, is seen by observers as a strategic move to: Isolate Leadership: Keep the primary mobilizers of the anti-Amendment Bill No. 3 movement in state custody during critical public consultation windows. Intimidate Professionals: The temporary detention of a lawyer (Mukonyora) and a journalist (Chinowaita) serves as a warning to other professionals participating in the CDF's activities. Delay Advocacy: With an initial court appearance scheduled for Monday, 23 March 2026, the CDF’s mobilization efforts in the Eastern Highlands have been effectively neutralized for the weekend. All eyes are now on the Mutare Magistrate’s Court. The hearing will likely serve as a litmus test for how the judiciary handles the tension between public order statutes and the fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution. Amnesty International Tendai Biti release 2026