NetOne Harare, Zimbabwe- In a landmark decision for digital accessibility, state-owned mobile network operator NetOne Zimbabwe  has announced the total removal of browsing time restrictions on all data bundles. The move, effective Tuesday, March 17, ends years of consumer frustration regarding "unusable" data that was previously locked behind off-peak windows. Before this shift, a significant portion of NetOne’s data bundles was only accessible during off-peak hours (most recently 10 pm to 5 am). This forced subscribers to either stay awake into the early hours of the morning or allow their paid data to expire unused. The Turning Point: CCZ Intervention: In January 2026, Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ)  CEO Rosemary Mpofu formally challenged NetOne, arguing that the system undermined "fairness, transparency, and value for money." Failed Adjustments: NetOne initially attempted to appease subscribers last month by shifting off-peak hours to 10 pm, but the concession was deemed insufficient by the market. The Final Directive: NetOne has now moved to a "One-Bundle, Any-Time"  model, allowing 24/7 access to all data purchased. Subscribers can now convert their airtime into unrestricted bundles using the existing USSD protocol: Dial *379#  on your NetOne line. Select your preferred bundle (Daily, Weekly, or Monthly). Enjoy seamless connectivity without checking the clock. This move is expected to put significant pressure on other mobile network operators (MNOs) in Zimbabwe to follow suit. As the digital economy grows, the demand for unrestricted data has become a primary driver of subscriber loyalty. NetOne Zimbabwe remove off-peak data

Alfred Shumba A key suspect in Zimbabwe’s high-profile 2021 US$2.7 million ZB Bank cash-in-transit robbery has been arrested after allegedly being betrayed by his own brother, authorities confirmed in court on Monday. Alfred Shumba, who had reportedly been hiding in South Africa since the robbery, appeared before Harare magistrate Jessie Kufa following his arrest. His capture reportedly stemmed from a tip-off after a fallout with his brother over missing cash believed to be part of the stolen money. According to prosecutors, Shumba left a portion of the loot in his brother’s custody when he fled Zimbabwe. However, a dispute arose when he later demanded the money back, prompting the brother to alert authorities. The robbery occurred on January 6, 2021, and remains one of Zimbabwe’s most significant cash-in-transit heists in recent years. A gang of armed robbers intercepted a security team transporting seven boxes of cash valued at US$2,775,000. The money was reportedly destined for multiple ZB Bank branches across the country, including Chinhoyi, Kadoma, Kwekwe, Gweru, Bulawayo, Gwanda and Zvishavane. Court papers indicate that the gang had inside information. Fanuel Musakwa, a member of the cash-in-transit crew, allegedly provided updates on the movement of the money, enabling the robbers to track the vehicle from Harare. The suspects intercepted the cash convoy at the 60-kilometre peg along the route. Armed with firearms, they threatened the crew before transferring the cash boxes into a getaway vehicle, identified as a red Toyota Hilux driven by Gerald Rutizirira. Following the robbery, the gang reportedly drove to a farm near Nyabira, where they broke open the boxes and shared the cash among themselves. Authorities have since arrested several suspects linked to the heist, with Shumba believed to be among the last key figures still at large until his recent capture. Cash-in-transit robberies have been a growing concern in Zimbabwe and across Southern Africa, with criminals often targeting security vehicles using insider information and high-powered weapons, according to regional crime reports. Shumba has been remanded in custody as investigations continue. He is expected to return to court on April 3 for the continuation of his trial. ZB Bank heist Alfred Shumba arrest

Tourism Minister Barbara Rwodzi has been named the best-performing cabinet minister in Zimbabwe for 2025 Harare, Zimbabwe- Minister Barbara Rwodzi  has been named the overall best-performing Cabinet Minister for 2025, a distinction that validates her ministry's aggressive "re-imagining" of the Zimbabwean tourism brand. The performance evaluation system, a hallmark of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s  Second Republic, measures ministers against specific, pre-signed performance contracts to ensure accountability. The rankings reflect the government's current priorities: Tourism, Agriculture, and Legal Reforms. Rank Minister Portfolio Key Achievement 1st Barbara Rwodzi Tourism and Hospitality Industry 10% sectoral transformation; named Best African Tourism Minister (ITB Berlin 2026). 2nd Anxious Masuka Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water & Rural Development Sustained food security initiatives and rural development milestones. 3rd Ziyambi Ziyambi Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Management of constitutional alignments and parliamentary legislative flow. The awards also recognized the "engine room" of government—the deputy ministers and permanent secretaries who drive day-to-day implementation. Top Deputy Ministers: Vangelis Haritatos (Agriculture) Joshua Sacco (Transport/Energy) Norbert Mazungunye Top Permanent Secretaries: Obert Jiri (Agriculture) Vimbai Nyemba (Justice) Albert Chimbindi (Foreign Affairs) The Chief Secretary noted that Minister Rwodzi's top spot was secured by a 10% transformation in the tourism sector. This growth is largely attributed to the "ZimBho" domestic tourism campaign and a renewed focus on international arrivals, which recently earned her continental recognition at ITB Berlin 2026. The evaluation system continues to serve as a critical tool for the Presidency to identify high-achievers and address bottlenecks in the civil service, ensuring that the Vision 2030  goals remain on track. Barbara Rwodzi best cabinet minister 2025

Tourist vehicle with rooftop tent   HARARE —   The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP)  has dismissed circulating social‑media reports that tourists’ vehicles are being impounded for using rooftop tents or roof racks, calling the claims false and contemptible. In an official statement, the ZRP said there is no enforcement action targeting tourists for rooftop camping equipment and urged visitors seeking clarification to contact their nearest police station or the National Complaints Desk. The ZRP asked tourists and members of the public to verify information directly with law enforcement rather than relying on unverified social posts. For enquiries, the police provided the following contact options: National Complaints Desk (phone): (0242) 703631 WhatsApp: 0712 800197 The force also confirmed it has coordinated with th e Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA)  to counter the spread of false messages and ensure accurate information is available to visitors. Tourism stakeholders warned that viral misinformation can harm Zimbabwe’s tourism reputation and deter visitors. Rooftop tents and roof racks are commonly used by self‑drive tourists and overlanders, and the ZRP’s clarification aims to reassure travellers that such equipment is not a basis for vehicle seizure. Industry sources said rapid, official responses from police and tourism authorities are essential to prevent panic and to protect the country’s image as a safe destination for international and regional tourists. Verify: Contact the nearest police station or the National Complaints Desk for official guidance. Document: Keep vehicle registration, insurance, and any relevant permits accessible while travelling. Report: Forward suspicious or alarming social‑media claims to authorities and the ZTA for verification. ZRP rooftop tent impoundment denial

Archbishop Andby Makururu addressing supporters   BIRCHENOUGH BRIDGE —   About 10,000 congregants of Johanne The 5th of Africa International brought business to a standstill at Birchenough Bridge Centre on Saturday as they marched in support of the Constitutional Amendment No 3 Bill , organisers and witnesses said. The amendment package proposes several major changes to Zimbabwe’s political system, including extending presidential terms from five to seven years  and ending direct presidential elections, among other sweeping reforms. Archbishop Andby Makururu, leader of the church, led the procession from his shrine just outside Birchenough Bridge along the Mutare‑Masvingo Highway to Save River, roughly five kilometres from the town centre. “We are here in Birchenough Bridge in Manicaland province for two days, and on Saturday, we marched in full support of the Constitutional Amendment No 3 Bill,” Archbishop Makururu told NewsDay. He said the church was urging a postponement of elections in 2028 to allow the current administration to complete development projects. “We are saying no to elections in 2028, as we need to build our country; elections can stop development, so we are saying we need President Emmerson Mnangagwa to finish his work,” Makururu said, adding that the event included a church service and a sermon he described as “powerful.” Makururu has been touring parts of southern Africa to promote the proposed amendments, arguing that frequent elections can destabilise regional peace and development. He told supporters the changes would benefit not only Zimbabwe but neighbouring countries in the Southern African Development Community. Critics and civil society groups say the proposed amendments are far‑reaching and require broader public input, including a referendum. Opponents argue that changes to the constitution that alter the balance of political power should not be decided by select groups or through limited consultation. “The scale of these amendments means citizens must have a direct say,” a civil society representative said. Observers warned that moves to extend terms and remove direct elections could provoke political tensions if not handled transparently and inclusively. If enacted, the amendment would reshape Zimbabwe’s electoral framework and presidential succession. Legal experts say the process for adopting such changes must follow constitutional procedures, which may include parliamentary approval and, depending on the clauses altered, a national referendum. Birchenough Bridge march Constitutional Amendment No 3

President Emmerson Mnangagwa launches AI strategy President Emmerson Mnangagwa says the government will introduce incentives for businesses adopting artificial intelligence (AI) technologies as the country moves to accelerate digital transformation and innovation. The announcement came during the launch of Zimbabwe’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2026–2030 , a policy framework aimed at positioning the country within the rapidly evolving global digital economy. President Mnangagwa said his administration would support companies integrating AI systems to boost productivity and operational efficiency across industries. “My administration stands ready to offer incentives to businesses that integrate artificial intelligence to augment efficiencies and productivity,” he said. According to the strategy, Zimbabwe plans to deploy AI technologies across several sectors of the economy. Proposed flagship projects include precision agriculture systems, predictive healthcare diagnostics, smart mining operations, and AI-powered platforms to enhance public service delivery and help combat corruption. The government believes such technologies could significantly improve productivity in sectors that are central to Zimbabwe’s economic growth. The strategy also introduces a regulatory and ethical framework to guide the development and use of artificial intelligence in the country. Mnangagwa said the framework will establish national guidelines on data privacy, fairness, transparency, and accountability. “We are committed to ensuring that the use of artificial intelligence is human-centric, transparent, and free from bias,” he said. He added that protecting national interests and safeguarding the dignity of Zimbabwean citizens would remain key priorities in regulating emerging technologies. The president also called for stronger international cooperation in developing AI capacity, urging industry players to adopt global best practices and attract responsible investment. He said research and development in areas such as public health and environmental monitoring should be expanded. AI adoption in financial technology, urban planning, energy management, and public administration could also help accelerate automation and improve service delivery. Tatenda Mavetera said the strategy reflects Zimbabwe’s ambition to actively participate in the Fourth Industrial Revolution . “The National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2026–2030 highlights our commitment to the Fourth Industrial Revolution and our progress toward a unified digital vision for Zimbabwe,” Mavetera said. Government officials say the strategy will help build a stronger digital ecosystem while positioning Zimbabwe to benefit from technological advances shaping the global economy. Emmerson Mnangagwa artificial intelligence

High Court of Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa has appointed a tribunal to investigate whether Never Katiyo should be removed from office over allegations of gross misconduct. The tribunal will be chaired by retired judge Maphios Cheda and includes legal practitioners Tafadzwa Hungwe and Chaka Mashoko. The move follows a recommendation by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) , which advised the president in October 2025 that the allegations against Katiyo warranted a formal inquiry. The delay in appointing the tribunal drew criticism from members of the legal profession. Prominent lawyer Beatrice Mtetwa wrote to the Attorney General's Office in January this year expressing concern that litigants could still be required to appear before a judge whose conduct was already under serious scrutiny. Mtetwa said her firm represents a litigant in a High Court case in which Justice Katiyo allegedly included in a judgment matters that had not been presented before the court. Although the JSC acknowledged receiving the complaint in 2024 and indicated it would investigate, no outcome was communicated. Justice Katiyo is also accused of issuing a judgment in a property dispute that allegedly recorded court proceedings that had not taken place. The case involved a dispute between Technoimpex JSC and a local company. The judgment reportedly stated that senior advocate Thabani Mpofu had appeared in the matter. Mpofu later denied participating in the case. Following the controversy, Katiyo rescinded his own ruling on August 7, 2025, acknowledging that it had been “erroneously issued.” The incident raised serious questions within legal circles about judicial integrity and due process. Barely a week later, the judge faced further scrutiny after granting the National Prosecuting Authority leave to appeal in a politically sensitive case before the deadline for opposing papers had expired. The case involved opposition politician Maureen Kademaunga and several others who had been acquitted of allegedly attacking supporters of Zanu PF in 2024. Justice Katiyo granted the NPA’s application for leave to appeal just four days after it was filed, despite respondents having until August 20 to submit their responses. Legal practitioners described the ruling as a procedural breach that prejudiced the respondents and demanded its rescission. In a notice published in the government gazette, Mnangagwa said the tribunal will investigate whether Katiyo’s conduct amounts to gross misconduct and whether he is fit to remain in office. The inquiry is expected to run for five months from the date the tribunal members are sworn in, after which a report must be submitted to the president within one month. Under Section 187 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, a judge may only be removed from office for physical or mental incapacity, gross incompetence, or gross misconduct. The tribunal may hold hearings either in public or in private, depending on what it considers appropriate. Justice Katiyo was controversially appointed to the High Court in 2021 after previously serving as a magistrate in Chinhoyi and later as legal affairs director in the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. Mnangagwa judicial probe

Mojtaba Khamenei , the successor to his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei A leaked audio recording obtained by The Telegraph  has shed light on the extraordinary circumstances surrounding the survival of Mojtaba Khamenei , the successor to his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to Mazaher Hosseini, the head of protocol for the Supreme Leader’s office, Mojtaba survived the February 28 strikes only because he stepped into his garden seconds before a missile leveled his residence. The strike was not merely a military operation but an attempt to eliminate the entire Khamenei lineage. The audio, an address to IRGC  commanders and senior clerics, details the carnage inside the Tehran compound: The Supreme Leader: Ali Khamenei was killed alongside senior security officials in a separate section of the office complex. The Family: Mojtaba’s wife (the daughter of Gholam-Ali Haddad-Adel) and his son were martyred instantly. His brother-in-law was reportedly decapitated by the blast. Military Bureau: Mohammad Shirazi, the influential chief of Khamenei’s military bureau, was "blown to pieces." Despite the official line that Mojtaba is leading the resistance, his total absence from the public eye has fueled intense speculation. Conflicting Reports on Mojtaba's Condition: The Leaked Audio: Claims he suffered a leg injury but was heading back upstairs when the building was struck. US Intelligence (President Trump): In a White House briefing on Monday, President Trump suggested Mojtaba might be dead or "badly disfigured," citing reports that he may have lost a leg. State Media: Only a written message promising "revenge for the blood of martyrs" has been broadcast, with no video or audio proof of life provided by Tehran. President Trump characterized the ongoing war as an "excursion" that could end soon, but issued a stern warning regarding global energy security. He stated that if Iran attempts to "choke" the Strait of Hormuz, the U.S. response would be "20 times harder." Mojtaba Khamenei survival US Israel strike

Zimbabwe finance minister Mthuli Ncube Mthuli Ncube says the government will begin paying both current and new local suppliers exclusively in the domestic currency, ZiG, under a new procurement framework aimed at strengthening the use of the local unit. The measure forms part of a newly introduced National Standard Price List (NSPL)  designed to guide procurement by government ministries, departments, and agencies. Announcing the policy, Ncube said the price list would establish reference prices for commonly procured goods and services to reduce inconsistencies and improve oversight of public spending. “The Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion and the Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe wish to inform current and potential suppliers that the Government has introduced a National Standard Price List (NSPL) to guide the procurement of commonly used goods and services across ministries, departments and agencies,” he said. Under the new framework, the NSPL will provide standard benchmark prices for frequently purchased goods and services used across government institutions. Treasury says the system is intended to curb inflated pricing, ensure consistency across ministries, and improve value for money in public procurement. “The implementation of the NSPL is expected to enhance cost savings, transparency, and efficiency in public procurement, thereby supporting national development priorities,” Ncube said. Officials say the measure forms part of wider public financial management reforms being rolled out by the government. These reforms include the introduction of the electronic government procurement platform, as well as strengthened financial oversight and improved budget management systems. Authorities also signalled a stronger policy focus on domestic sourcing. “In accordance with the 2026 National Budget Statement, priority will be given to domestically produced goods and services,” Ncube said. As part of the policy shift, the government says it will lead by example in promoting the use of the local currency. “All payments to local suppliers will be made solely in the local currency,” Ncube said. However, the decision could have implications for suppliers who currently price their goods in United States dollars or who are owed payments in foreign currency. Some businesses may face exchange-rate risks if outstanding obligations are converted into ZiG. Treasury said additional guidance on implementing the policy has already been issued to ministries and government agencies through Treasury Circular No. 4 of 2026 , alongside directives from the procurement regulator. Analysts say the move reflects ongoing efforts by the government to stabilise the domestic currency while tightening control over public spending. ZiG payments Zimbabwe suppliers

ZCTU Secretary General Tirivanhu Marimo HARARE —   The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has called on policymakers to treat entrenched gender inequalities with urgency, warning that legal protections for women are being undermined and that economic injustice remains widespread across sectors. ZCTU Secretary General Tirivanhu Marimo  delivered the keynote address at a workers’ event marking the belated 2026 International Women’s Day , held under the theme Give Opportunities, Gain Equality: Advancing Women’s Economic Justice. Marimo said progress to date is insufficient and urged coordinated policy and enforcement measures to protect women’s rights at work. Marimo highlighted that women are disproportionately employed in casual, seasonal and informal roles, leaving them without job security, formal contracts, or social protections. In agriculture, female workers frequently earn significantly less than men, in some cases, only two‑thirds of male wages, and many are not registered with the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) , denying them access to pensions and maternity benefits. He also pointed to widespread lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) and exposure to hazardous pesticides for female farmworkers, and said sexual harassment remains underreported because victims lack legal recourse and face hostile work environments. Marimo described the “double burden” faced by many women who combine long hours of productive labour with unpaid reproductive work such as cooking, cleaning, and caregiving. He said many women work 16 to 18 hours a day, and that economic stress from drought and low incomes has been linked to rising domestic violence and the withdrawal of girls from school — sometimes resulting in early marriage as a coping strategy. “These problems are solvable if we commit to better working conditions, stronger enforcement, and social protection for women,” Marimo said. The ZCTU urged policymakers to prioritise: Formalisation of women’s work and enforcement of equal pay; Mandatory NSSA registration for all workers to secure pensions and maternity protection. Stronger workplace protections, including PPE provision and clear mechanisms to report and prosecute sexual harassment. Social support measures to reduce the unpaid care burden and protect girls’ education during economic shocks. Marimo called for collaboration between government, employers, unions, and civil society to translate legal guarantees into practical protections on the ground. Advocates will monitor whether the government and employers adopt concrete reforms, increase labour inspections, and fund social programmes that reduce the vulnerability of women workers, especially in rural and agricultural communities. ZCTU on persistent gender inequalities affecting women workers

Mark Yong Khong Yoong arrest Zimbabwe The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest of a foreign national in connection with alleged criminal activities in the country, including fraud and the externalisation of funds. In a statement, national police spokesperson Paul Nyathi said the suspect was arrested following investigations into a mining investment deal in which another foreign investor was allegedly defrauded of US$1.5 million. Police later identified the suspect as Singaporean businessman Mark Yong Khong Yoong . According to police, Yoong was arrested on 14 March 2026 at the Norton Tollgate while travelling in a black Lexus SUV with three other people. “Upon arrest, police conducted a search of the vehicle, leading to the recovery of prepared dagga,” Nyathi said. A subsequent search at Yoong’s residence in Borrowdale resulted in the recovery of approximately 10 grammes of suspected gold nuggets. Police said authorities are currently verifying whether the suspect possesses the required permit to hold the recovered gold. Yoong is also facing allegations of money laundering after police reportedly discovered large sums of cash in his possession. However, authorities have not yet disclosed the exact quantities of cash, gold, or drugs seized. The businessman is currently being held at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) headquarters in Harare pending further investigations. Police say the arrest stems from a fraud investigation involving a mining investment in which another foreign investor allegedly lost US$1.5 million. Authorities suspect the funds may have been externalised from Zimbabwe as part of the scheme, although investigations are ongoing. Nyathi urged investors to conduct proper background checks before entering into mining deals. “The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges members of the public, particularly investors, to conduct thorough due diligence and verify ownership of mining claims with relevant authorities before entering into any transactions,” he said. Reports indicate that Yoong has previously been linked to offshore companies and gaming interests and is known in gambling circles for participating in high-stakes betting. He was also reportedly involved in a 2021 case before the High Court of Singapore relating to debts owed to an Australian casino. Police said further details about the case, including the exact quantities of cash, gold, and drugs allegedly seized, will be released as investigations progress. Authorities are also expected to determine whether additional charges may be brought against the businessman and whether any of his business interests in Zimbabwe are implicated. Mark Yong Khong Yoong arrest Zimbabwe Republic Police

Okra pods When I was young, I never liked okra. I could not understand what people enjoyed about the slimy vegetable that seemed awkward to eat. Fast forward, and I now appreciate okra in many forms. I do not eat it slimy; I prefer it fried. I drink okra water and chew it raw. After researching its benefits, I discovered that okra is a unique vegetable with many health advantages. Below are some of the key benefits: Okra prevents anaemia It promotes a healthy pregnancy It is rich in amino acids It promotes healthy skin It helps prevent stomach ulcers It supports respiratory tract health Okra stabilises blood sugar It lubricates the large intestine due to its bulk laxative qualities Okra neutralises acids It relieves a running stomach Okra treats headaches, fever, and arthritis It is packed with antioxidants that boost the immune system Okra supports prostate health and enhances fertility It improves cardiovascular health It supports weight loss There are various ways to take Okra; below are the most common. Glass of okra water Okra water: Soak whole okra pods in water overnight and drink the water on an empty stomach. The taste can take time to get used to, but many find the benefits worth it. Fried okra : Fry okra briefly with tomatoes, onions, spices, and other vegetables of your choice. Avoid overcooking to preserve texture and nutrients. Serve with any starch. Slimy okra soup . A traditional preparation combines okra with tomatoes and onions; a pinch of bicarbonate of soda can be added to form a slimy green soup commonly served with sadza. Raw okra salad : Toss raw baby okra with coloured peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes, and celery; dress with vinegar or your favourite dressing for a crunchy, nutrient‑dense salad. Fried okra FAQ What is okra water, and how do you take it? Soak okra overnight and drink the water on an empty stomach. Can okra help stabilise blood sugar? Okra contains fibre and nutrients that may support blood sugar control; consult a healthcare provider. How should I cook okra to avoid sliminess? Fry briefly or use high heat and minimal stirring; add acidic ingredients like tomatoes to reduce slime . Disclaimer : This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here. Dr. Precious Sibiya is a certified Wellness Practitioner, stroke survivor, and advocate for natural healing and lifestyle. Contact for more wellness insights: precioussibiya2014@gmail.com  | +263775369467 okra health benefits