Donald Trump speaking on global security Donald Trump has warned European members of NATO that the alliance could face a “very bad future” if they refuse to assist in securing the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Speaking to the Financial Times , Trump urged countries that depend on energy shipments passing through the waterway to contribute to its protection. Countries including the United Kingdom and France, as well as major oil-importing nations such as Japan, South Korea, and China, should join what Trump described as a “team effort” to safeguard the key maritime route. “If there’s no response or if it’s a negative response, I think it will be very bad for the future of NATO,” Trump said. He also suggested that diplomatic engagements could be affected if cooperation is not forthcoming, indicating that he might delay a planned visit to China if Beijing declines to participate in the security initiative. Iranian officials have pushed back against Trump’s remarks, with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps challenging the United States to test its claims about the strength of Iran’s naval capabilities . An IRGC spokesperson said that if Washington believes Iran’s navy has been weakened, it should send its warships into the Persian Gulf. “Didn’t Trump say that Iran’s navy has been destroyed? If so, let him send his ships into the Persian Gulf if he dares,” the spokesperson said. Tehran has maintained that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to global shipping but warned that access could be restricted for what it calls “hostile nations.” The dispute comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Reports indicate that the Israel Defense Forces has requested government approval to mobilise up to 450,000 reservists in preparation for a potential ground operation in Lebanon as hostilities between Israel, the United States, and Iran continue. Meanwhile, the financial costs of the conflict are mounting. Kevin Hassett said US military operations against Iran have already cost Washington about US$12 billion. Global oil markets have reacted sharply to the developments. Brent crude prices rose to nearly US$106 per barrel after Trump claimed that Kharg Island had been “totally demolished,” while also suggesting further strikes could follow. Analysts warn that damage to infrastructure at Kharg Island, Iran’s primary oil export hub, could trigger deeper disruptions to global energy supplies. The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly a fifth of the world’s traded oil, making it one of the most strategically important shipping routes for global energy markets. Trump Strait of Hormuz warning

Benjamin Netanyahu Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has vowed to intensify efforts to target Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he is still alive, as tensions between Iran, Israel, and the United States continue to escalate. In a statement carried by Tasnim News Agency , the IRGC claimed that uncertainty surrounding Netanyahu’s status reflects what it described as growing instability within Israel. The Iranian military organisation said it would continue pursuing the Israeli leader as part of what it described as retaliation for recent attacks on Iran. According to the IRGC, Iranian forces launched combined missile and drone operations against Israeli targets and US military facilities during what it called the 52nd wave of “ Operation True Promise 4. ” The statement alleged that Iranian strikes hit industrial areas in Tel Aviv, causing significant damage and casualties. Iranian officials also claimed that missiles and drones targeted US-linked military installations in the region, including the Al-Harir Air Base, Ali Al Salem Air Base, and Camp Arifjan. The IRGC said the strikes were intended to avenge Iranian workers allegedly killed during recent US and Israeli attacks on industrial facilities in Iran. The escalation follows a series of military exchanges between Iran and Israel that intensified after the reported assassination of Ali Khamenei, along with several senior Iranian military commanders and civilians, on February 28. Iranian authorities have accused Israel and the United States of launching a large-scale military campaign against the country following the incident, involving airstrikes on both military and civilian infrastructure. Israel and the United States have not confirmed Iran’s claims regarding the assassination or the extent of the strikes described by Iranian officials. In response to the attacks, Iranian armed forces say they have launched retaliatory waves of missile and drone strikes targeting Israeli positions and US-linked bases across the region. The conflict has significantly heightened tensions across the Middle East, raising fears of a broader regional war involving multiple countries and military alliances. Analysts warn that continued escalation between Iran, Israel, and the United States could destabilise key strategic areas and further disrupt global energy and security dynamics. IRGC Netanyahu threat Iran-Israel conflict

Jacob Mafume Harare Mayor, Jacob Mafume , has raised an alarm over serious security lapses at Harare Town House, warning that unauthorised individuals are freely accessing offices of senior officials and roaming the premises without checks. Speaking during a meeting with council officials, Mafume described the situation as a “ticking time bomb” that could expose the local authority to criminal activity. He said suspected land barons and other visitors are able to move around the municipal headquarters without being questioned by security personnel. “You will be laughing with them at Town House and you expect us to smile? We do not tolerate such things. Let’s deal with access to Town House,” Mafume said. Mafume warned that if the security lapses are not urgently addressed, the council could soon face serious incidents such as robbery or other security breaches. “People walk until they get into the town clerk’s office, the chamber secretary’s office and the mayor’s office while you are standing there,” he said. “You do not ask what they are looking for, and there is no search. What if they are carrying dangerous weapons? We cannot run an office like that.” He stressed that tighter access controls are needed to restore order at the building and protect officials and staff. According to Mafume, only councillors and senior management should have unrestricted access to the premises, while other visitors should enter only for official business. He also raised concerns that some individuals arrive at Town House early in the morning and remain on the premises before officials report for duty, sometimes disrupting operations. The mayor’s warning comes amid heightened scrutiny of land-related disputes involving the Harare City Council. A recent dispute in Newlands led to the arrests of Rosemary Muronda and former Shadreck Mashayamombe. During the controversy, Mafume himself was questioned by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission following a complaint from Marvis Java. Java alleged she had been sold a non-existent commercial stand in an upscale Harare suburb. Meanwhile, tensions are also rising between the city council and residents over the rollout of smart water meters. During a meeting organised by the Community Water Alliance, residents criticised the council’s priorities, arguing that authorities should focus first on fixing infrastructure losses. Goodlife Mudzingwa, national coordinator of the alliance, said nearly 60 percent of Harare’s treated water is lost through leaks and ageing infrastructure. Mudzingwa also pointed out that the smart meter programme is being financed through a Chinese loan. “For example, we can help you sue Harare City Council,” he told residents, urging them to pursue legal avenues if they feel the project is unfair. The ongoing disputes highlight growing tensions between city authorities and residents over governance, service delivery, and transparency in Harare. Jacob Mafume security warning

Plane crash site Ward 2, Bikita, Zimbabwe- A tragic aviation accident occurred early this morning in Ward 2 of Bikita, where a small aircraft crashed under circumstances currently being investigated by civil aviation authorities. Preliminary reports from the scene confirm two fatalities, while a third occupant has narrowly survived the impact. Witnesses in the local community reported seeing the aircraft go down in the early hours of Monday morning. Local residents were the first to arrive at the crash site, initiating a daring rescue operation before emergency services could reach the remote location. Casualties: Two of the three people on board were found deceased at the site. The Survivor: One occupant survived the crash but is reported to have sustained two broken legs. Community members managed to extricate the survivor from the wreckage and provide initial aid. Current Status: The injured survivor has been moved to a medical facility for urgent treatment, while the area has been cordoned off by local police. The Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ)  and the Air Accident Investigation Branch  are expected to deploy a team to Bikita to examine the wreckage. Investigators will likely focus on: Weather Conditions: Assessing visibility and wind speeds at the time of the crash. Mechanical History: Reviewing the aircraft’s maintenance logs and flight plan. Communication Logs: Analyzing the last transmissions between the pilot and air traffic control. The identities of the deceased and the survivor are currently being withheld pending the notification of their next of kin. Bikita small aircraft crash 2026

Zimbabwe Launches National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2026–2030 President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officially launched Zimbabwe’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2026–2030 , a policy framework aimed at harnessing artificial intelligence to drive economic growth, innovation, and public sector transformation. The strategy was unveiled on Friday at the New Parliament Building. Speaking at the launch, Honorable Tatenda Mavetera said the strategy is a home-grown blueprint designed to position Zimbabwe as a competitive player in the global digital economy while supporting the country’s broader development agenda. Honorable Mavetera said the policy was developed through a comprehensive process led by the Ministry of Information, Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, guided by the UNESCO AI Readiness Assessment for Zimbabwe . She noted that the strategy also benefited from extensive nationwide consultations involving a broad range of stakeholders. According to the minister, farmers, healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, technopreneurs, educators, and national leaders all contributed to shaping the framework. Honorable Mavetera said the consultations were important to ensure that the strategy reflects Zimbabwe’s unique social, economic, and technological priorities. “This broad engagement ensures the strategy speaks directly to our national needs and opportunities,” she said. The strategy aligns with Zimbabwe’s Education 5.0 philosophy , which emphasises innovation, research, industrialisation, and community service. Mavetera said the framework prioritises artificial intelligence literacy and skills development across the education system, beginning at the primary school level and extending through universities. The approach aims to equip young Zimbabweans with the digital skills needed to participate in the evolving global technology landscape. The National Artificial Intelligence Strategy is built around six key pillars designed to guide implementation over the next five years. These include AI talent development, infrastructure and computational sovereignty, public sector transformation, governance and ethics, research and innovation, and international collaboration and diplomacy. The minister said these pillars will form the foundation for Zimbabwe’s AI ecosystem, enabling both government institutions and the private sector to integrate emerging technologies into their operations. To ensure effective implementation, the government has established several governance structures. These include the National Digital Regulatory Committee, the AI Strategy Implementation Office, and a series of technical working groups tasked with overseeing specific areas of the policy. Mavetera also announced a number of flagship initiatives expected to be rolled out during the first 18 months of the strategy. “I am excited to announce five key initiatives to launch our national AI mission within the first 18 months,” she said. The initiatives include the AI Grand Challenge, the National AI and Data Platform, the AI for Every Zimbabwe campaign, a National AI Regulatory Sandbox, and the National AI Innovation Fund. Honorable Mavetera said implementing the strategy will require significant investment and strong partnerships. She emphasised the importance of collaboration between universities, the private sector, civil society, development partners, and the Zimbabwean diaspora in building a robust national AI ecosystem. Authorities hope the strategy will help position Zimbabwe to benefit from global technological advances while supporting inclusive economic development and digital transformation. Mnangagwa artificial intelligence strategy

Prof Jonathan Moyo Harare, Zimbabwe- The discourse surrounding HB 1, 2026,  has reached a fever pitch following a sharp exchange between two influential figures. Professor Jonathan Moyo has dismissed claims by retired military top brass, led by Henry Muchena, who argue that shifting to a parliamentary election for the President dismantles the hard-won right of universal adult suffrage. Retired Air Vice-Marshal Muchena, representing a cohort of retired generals and senior civil servants, petitioned Parliament, arguing that the amendments undermine the people's electoral rights. Professor Moyo’s Rebuttal: Definition of Suffrage:  Moyo argues that universal adult suffrage is about the right to vote without discrimination (race, class, gender), not the mechanism (direct vs. indirect) of electing a head of state. Global Precedents: He notes that stable democracies like the UK, India, and South Africa use indirect systems where the head of government is elected by the legislature, asserting this does not inherently diminish democracy. The Diaspora Factor: Moyo contends the Bill actually expands  suffrage by proposing frameworks to include millions of Zimbabweans in the diaspora who are currently excluded from the direct ballot. A striking element of Moyo’s critique is his characterization of the current system as a "failed one-party relic." The 1987 Legacy: Moyo points out that the "Imperial Executive Presidency" was a product of the 1987 Unity Accord era under Robert Mugabe, designed to consolidate power and weaken the Judiciary and Parliament. The Irony of Activism: Moyo expressed bewilderment that pro-democracy activists who spent decades decrying the concentration of power in a single office are now defending that very structure against reforms that would arguably make the President more accountable to Parliament. While the Government maintains the Bill ensures "continuity and socioeconomic progress," the divide in interpretation remains stark: Perspective Argument Government / Moyo Dismantles the authoritarian imperial presidency; aligns elections with NDS2 goals; expands diaspora rights. Muchena / Analysts Dismantles the people's direct mandate; extends terms without a referendum; constitutes a "constitutional coup." A major legal sticking point is whether a referendum is required. Government legal advisors argue that because the Bill avoids Chapters 4 (Bill of Rights), 16 (Agricultural Land), and Section 328 (Amendment of the Constitution) , a simple parliamentary majority is sufficient. Critics, however, argue that changing the very nature of the executive's mandate fundamentally alters the spirit of the 2013 Constitution. Jonathan Moyo Henry Muchena Constitution Amendment 3

Parliament of Zimbabwe, where the Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill will be debated following public consultations Harare, Zimbabwe- Parliament has officially announced a nationwide four-day window—running from March 30 to April 2, 2026—for citizens to participate in public hearings regarding the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment No. 3 Bill (H.B. 1, 2026) . The Bill, which was gazetted on February 17, proposes the most radical restructuring of the Zimbabwean State since the adoption of the 2013 Constitution. The Amendment No. 3 Bill seeks to significantly alter how the President is elected and how the electoral roll is managed. Indirect Presidential Election: A move to replace the direct "first-past-the-post" public vote with a parliamentary process for electing the President. Term Extensions: Proposing an extension of the presidential term from five to seven years. Absolute Majority Rule: Clause 3 mandates an absolute majority (>50%) for a win, with a run-off provision if no candidate meets the threshold. Voters' Roll Transfer: Moving the responsibility for voter registration and the maintenance of the voters' roll from the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC)  back to the Registrar-General’s Office. In compliance with Section 131 of the Constitution, Parliament must allow for a 90-day notice period and active public participation before the Bill is debated in either the Senate or the National Assembly. Channel Method of Submission Public Hearings Attend meetings in person at designated provincial venues (March 30 – April 2). Email Submissions Send written views to the official Parliament of Zimbabwe email address. Physical Deposit Box Located at the Old Parliament Building in Harare’s CBD. Venue Desks Special desks will be set up at all consultation venues for written entries. Consultation Schedule (Selected Venues) Date Province/Location Venue March 30 Harare Chitungwiza Aquatic Centre March 30 Bulawayo Bulawayo City Hall March 31 Harare Epworth Local Board / Harare City Centre April 1-2 National Gokwe, Kwekwe, Zvishavane, Gwanda, Hwange, Mutare, Bindura. These hearings are a constitutional prerequisite. Once completed, parliamentary committees will compile a report detailing public sentiment. This input will theoretically shape the debate when the Bill finally reaches the National Assembly floor. Proponents argue the changes will align election cycles with long-term economic goals, while legal observers note the potential for a massive shift in the country's political landscape.  Zimbabwe Constitution Amendment No. 3 Bill hearings

Goblins Have Tormented Her Since Childhood A 35-year-old woman from Beitbridge says she has endured years of suffering from what she believes are goblins allegedly linked to rituals performed by relatives when she was a child. Mazvita Marvelous Msavi, who appeared visibly distressed while recounting her experiences, said her ordeal began when she was about three years old after relatives reportedly consulted a traditional healer. “My ordeal started when my relatives went to a witch doctor. I was only three years old at the time,” Msavi said. She claimed that the healer allegedly provided several goblins that were meant to remain with members of the extended family. “The witch doctor gave them 10 goblins, which were supposed to stay at the homes of either my father’s or mother’s relatives,” she said. “Instead, five were assigned to me and the other five to my younger sister.” Msavi said the alleged entities have troubled her throughout her life, often appearing in different forms. “They torment me every day. From as early as six o’clock in the evening they begin to appear, sometimes disguising themselves as my relatives,” she said. She added that the experiences have left her living in constant fear and have severely affected her ability to sleep. “I live in constant fear because I never know when they will come. They disturb my sleep and my peace,” she said. Msavi also alleged that the disturbances became more intense during her menstrual cycle. “When I menstruate, they come to drink the blood. Even when I throw away my sanitary pads, they retrieve them to take the blood,” she claimed. According to Msavi, attempts to seek help from relatives have not been successful. She alleged that some family members are benefiting financially from the alleged goblins. “They are benefitting financially from the goblins, leaving me to suffer alone,” she said. Msavi further claimed that relatives destroyed important personal documents, including her academic certificates and identity papers. “They burnt my Ordinary Level and Advanced Level certificates, as well as my birth certificate and national ID card. They want me to remain a vessel for their goblins,” she alleged. Without these documents, she said it has been extremely difficult to find employment or build a stable life. “My life has become very difficult. I cannot find decent work and I struggle to survive,” she said. Msavi said she is currently homeless and survives through small-scale vending. She often sleeps at bus ranks in Beitbridge and said the alleged disturbances continue regardless of where she stays. “The goblins still follow me wherever I sleep and molest me. They are inside me — I cannot shake them off,” she said. Now desperate for help, Msavi said she hopes someone will assist her in finding relief from the experiences that she believes have affected her life for decades. “All I want now is help so that I can live a normal life like other people,” she said. Beitbridge goblins story

Mkoba suburb in Gweru Police in Gweru are searching for a 37-year-old man suspected of murdering his wife in the high-density suburb of Mkoba. The suspect, identified as Nhlalo Darlington Baloyi, is alleged to have fatally assaulted his wife, Partricia Nyathi (32), at their home in Mkoba 4 on Monday last week. Police say Baloyi, an artisanal miner originally from Mkonto Village under Chief Ntabeni in Zhombe, allegedly attacked Nyathi after accusing her of infidelity. According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the suspect is believed to have fled after the incident and remains at large. Midlands provincial police spokesperson Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the case and appealed to members of the public for assistance in locating the suspect. Mahoko said Baloyi is a well-known artisanal miner who frequently operates in Shurugwi. “We are appealing to members of the public who might have information on the whereabouts of Nhlalo Darlington Baloyi to report at any police station or make use of our ZRP WhatsApp platform 0712800197,” Mahoko said. Police said Nyathi had been living with Baloyi at the Mkoba 4 residence since December 2025. On the day of the incident, she was reportedly doing laundry outside the house when an argument broke out between the couple. Baloyi allegedly accused Nyathi of being unfaithful during the confrontation. According to police, the suspect went into the house and returned carrying a vehicle shock absorber. However, Nyathi’s 13-year-old daughter, identified as Sibothabo Sibanda, reportedly intervened and stopped him from using it. Investigators say Baloyi then went back into the house and returned with a hammer. He allegedly struck Nyathi several times on the head with the hammer during the attack. The injuries proved fatal. Police said Baloyi fled the scene shortly after the incident and has not yet been apprehended. Authorities have urged anyone with information that could lead to his arrest to contact the police. The case has shocked residents in the Mkoba community, where neighbours say the couple had been living together for several months before the incident. Police investigations into the case are continuing. Police Gweru Mkoba wife murder

Highland Park shopping centre in Harare Zimbabwe’s retail property sector is experiencing rising interest from international brands seeking to enter or expand within the market, according to the fund manager of Tigere Real Estate Investment Trust . Speaking after the release of the company’s latest financial results, Tigere Property Fund director Brett Abrahamse said the firm is receiving frequent enquiries from global retailers looking for space in the country. “It’s amazing. I would say on a weekly basis we are getting contacted by a new international brand that is looking to either enquire for space or grow a business within them,” Abrahamse said in an interview with CapitalkFM. Abrahamse attributed the growing interest to improving macroeconomic conditions in Zimbabwe, particularly increased stability in currency markets. According to recent data, Zimbabwe’s annual inflation slowed to about 3.8 percent in February 2026, reflecting tighter fiscal and monetary coordination as well as improved policy discipline. The improved economic environment, Abrahamse said, has strengthened confidence among international retailers who are once again considering Zimbabwe as a viable investment destination. The availability of modern retail infrastructure has also played a significant role in attracting international brands. Tigere REIT owns several retail properties, including Highland Park, Chinamano Corner, and Greenfields Retail Centre. The company is also developing the Design Quarter, which is expected to open in the third quarter of 2026. Abrahamse said such developments are helping raise the standard of retail infrastructure in the country. “There’s a lot more space available in quality retail space, and that’s positive for the market. I think it lifts everyone’s game,” he said. Greenfields Retail Centre , which Tigere acquired in late 2025, has already reached full occupancy and is anchored by major retailers, including Spar, alongside outlets such as Hungry Lion and Spur. Tigere REIT has reported strong financial results, with real income rising to about US$2.3 million. The company’s net asset value currently stands at approximately US$60 million across five assets, while its market capitalisation has reached around US$100 million following recent property acquisitions. Lower operating expenses have also enabled the company to maintain steady dividend payments to investors. Tigere is targeting a net asset value of US$100 million by the end of the 2026 financial year and US$200 million by 2028. To support future growth, Tigere is expanding its investment portfolio beyond retail properties into light industrial and hospitality developments. New projects are planned in Kadoma, Gweru, and Bulawayo. In Bulawayo, the development will be undertaken in partnership with the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair. Abrahamse said the project could help stimulate investment in the city. “There hasn’t been much investment in Bulawayo over the last few years and we’re excited to hopefully provide a catalyst for more development there,” he said. Analysts say that if macroeconomic stability continues, Zimbabwe’s retail property sector could remain attractive to global brands seeking to tap into the country’s growing consumer market. Zimbabwe retail property market

Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) Harare, Zimbabwe- The director of a Harare-based freight clearing company, Lawrence Zifungo  (43), has appeared before the Harare Magistrates' Court facing allegations of orchestrating a sophisticated fraud scheme. The State contends that Zifungo prejudiced the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA)  of over ZiG$448,000 through a fictitious payment system involving compromised tax accounts. According to court papers, the alleged fraud began after Zifungo was engaged by Rosecraft Freight Private Limited  in 2023 to assist with customs clearance. Having been granted access to the company’s ZIMRA pre-payment credentials, Zifungo reportedly began a fraudulent campaign between January and August 2025. The Prosecution’s Case: Misrepresentation of Funds: Zifungo is alleged to have falsely represented that Rosecraft Freight had deposited ZiG$448,620 into a ZIMRA account held with BancABC. Internal Collusion: The State alleges that Zifungo worked in cahoots with unidentified ZIMRA employees who created fictitious entries in the tax authority's system. Unauthorized Clearance: These fraudulent entries enabled the clearance of imported goods despite the fact that no actual currency had been transferred to the tax collector. The scheme resulted in a total financial prejudice of ZiG$448,620 to the tax authority. Appearing before the magistrate this week, Zifungo was granted bail of US$300 and ordered to return to court for trial at a later date. ZIMRA authorities have confirmed that internal investigations are ongoing to identify and prosecute the staff members suspected of facilitating the "ghost payments." Lawrence Zifungo ZIMRA fraud case

Lupane district map HWANGE —  The High Court Circuit sitting at Hwange has sentenced 22‑year‑old Mpofu to 16 years’ imprisonment after convicting him of the brutal murder of his 72‑year‑old stepmother, Christine Ncube, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said. On 17 May 2025 at Ncube’s homestead in Lupane, prosecutors say Mpofu struck the elderly woman on the head with an axe and then set her on fire inside her kitchen hut. Witnesses found Ncube alive but gravely injured, bleeding from head trauma and suffering severe burns. She was rushed to the hospital and died a month later from her injuries. The State presented a recorded phone call  in which Mpofu allegedly confessed to his brother that he had struck Ncube and set her ablaze. That confession, together with witness testimony and medical evidence documenting head trauma and extensive burns, formed the core of the prosecution’s case. Mpofu told the court the incident followed a verbal argument about failing to help carry grain to a grinding mill. He claimed he had pulled a burning log from the fire and only pretended to strike Ncube, saying she lost her balance and fell into the flames. He denied using an axe. The High Court rejected Mpofu’s version, finding the State had proved beyond a reasonable doubt that he inflicted the fatal injuries. The sentence reflects the court’s view of the aggravating factors , including the victim’s advanced age and the violent nature of the attack. The conviction underscores the criminal justice system’s response to severe domestic violence and elder abuse . Legal observers say the sentence aims to deliver justice and deter similar offences, while also highlighting the need for stronger community protections for vulnerable older persons in rural areas. Local leaders and social services may face renewed calls to improve reporting channels, elder‑care support, and conflict‑resolution mechanisms to prevent household disputes from escalating into violence. Any appeal will follow High Court procedures. The NPA will indicate whether it intends to pursue further action or whether the defence will lodge an appeal. Meanwhile, community stakeholders are expected to discuss preventive measures and support services for elderly residents. Lupane murder sentence 2026