Daniel Munyanyi  (50) Daniel Munyanyi (50), the notorious armed robber linked to the cold-blooded killing of two police detectives, has been sentenced to an effective 62 years in prison. Masvingo Regional Magistrate Innocent Bepura handed down a total of 72 years across six counts of armed robbery, suspending 10 years on condition of good behavior. The sentencing marks a major victory for the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP)  following a month-long manhunt that gripped the Masvingo and Bikita districts. The Timeline of Terror: A 7-Month Spree Prosecutor Liberty Hove detailed a calculated and increasingly violent campaign that targeted traditional leaders, business owners, and private citizens across Masvingo province. Date Location Target Items Stolen 20 June 2025 Chief Nhema Homestead Chief Nhema US$10,000, jewelry, and shoes 08 Dec 2025 Chinyudze, Zaka Mandava’s Shop US$4,500, Star pistol, Toyota Porte 20 Dec 2025 Jerera Growth Point Brighton Mwabvu US$781 and a Toyota Mark X 21 Dec 2025 Mandadzaka, Bikita Austin Fungai US$300 and groceries 06 Jan 2026 Mpandawana, Gutu Emmanuel Mbanda Mazda vehicle and an iPhone 29 Jan 2026 Musiso Village C. Gwanyanya US$300 and a Honda Fit The Fatal Confrontation in Zaka The robberies were only part of Munyanyi's violent record. The court heard that when detectives from the Harare CID Homicide  unit closed in on his rural home in Chimedza, Zaka, Munyanyi allegedly opened fire, killing two officers. Following the double murder, Munyanyi fled but was eventually cornered and apprehended by courageous members of the public in Nyika, Bikita, before being handed over to the police. The Murder Trial While Munyanyi has now been sentenced for the robberies, his legal battles are far from over. He remains in custody and is expected back in court on March 20, 2026, to face two counts of murder for the deaths of the CID detectives. Legal experts suggest that if convicted of the murders, Munyanyi could face life imprisonment or the death penalty. Daniel Munyanyi armed robbery sentence

Kwekwe Magistrates' Court Simabvu Shiri (37) , the well-known founder of the Spring of Living Waters Church , has been remanded in prison following allegations of a brutal physical assault on his eight-month-pregnant wife. The victim, Trishia Samantha Maphosa (28), went into premature labor just days after the attack; tragically, the infant died within hours of birth. The incident reportedly occurred last Sunday at the couple's home in Mbizo 4, Kwekwe. Shiri was apprehended by police on Thursday and made his initial appearance at the Kwekwe Magistrates’ Court on Friday. According to Midlands Police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, the assault was accompanied by chilling verbal threats. Maphosa reported to the authorities that Shiri not only physically attacked her while she was heavily pregnant but also explicitly threatened to end both her life and that of her unborn child. Following the trauma, Maphosa was admitted to a local hospital, where she delivered prematurely. The newborn passed away the following day, a tragedy that has sparked public outrage given Shiri's position of spiritual authority. This is not Shiri’s first encounter with the law regarding violent conduct. Inspector Mahoko confirmed that the religious leader has a documented criminal record: 2024 Conviction: Shiri was sentenced to 12 months in prison for the physical assault of his own congregants. The recurring nature of his violent outbursts has raised serious questions regarding the safety of those within his ministry and his household. Shiri has been denied bail for the initial remand period. He faces multiple charges, including: Assault Threatening behavior (Death threats) His trial is officially scheduled to commence next Wednesday, March 11, 2026. Prosecutors may seek further charges depending on the medical reports linking the assault to the premature labor and subsequent death of the infant. Simabvu Shiri arrested Kwekwe

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi speaking during a press conference. Tehran —   Iran says it is fully prepared to confront a potential ground invasion by the United States as tensions continue to escalate between Tehran, Washington, and Israel. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran would be ready to face American troops if the United States deployed forces on Iranian soil. Speaking to NBC News on Thursday, Araghchi warned that any direct military intervention by Washington would have serious consequences. “We are waiting for them,” he said. “Because we are confident that we can confront them, and that would be a big disaster for them.” His remarks come after U.S. President Donald Trump earlier this week declined to rule out the possibility of sending American troops into Iran as tensions between the two countries continue to intensify. The comments signal a hardened stance from Tehran as the confrontation between Iran, the United States, and Israel deepens. Araghchi also rejected claims by Trump that Iranian leaders had sought talks with Washington. According to the Iranian foreign minister, Tehran has neither requested a ceasefire nor expressed interest in negotiations with the United States. His position echoes comments made earlier by Iranian political figure Ali Larijani, who said Iran would not engage in negotiations with Washington under the current circumstances. “We didn't ask for a cease-fire even last time,” Araghchi said, referring to last year’s brief conflict between Israel and Iran. According to him, Israel eventually sought an unconditional ceasefire after facing sustained resistance from Iranian forces. The latest escalation also comes as nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States remain stalled. Diplomatic talks that resumed earlier this year were aimed at restoring dialogue after last year’s hostilities, which included strikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities. However, Araghchi said Tehran had lost confidence in Washington’s willingness to pursue diplomacy in good faith. “The fact is that we don't have any positive experience of negotiating with the United States, especially with this administration,” he said. According to Araghchi, previous negotiations collapsed after military actions took place during the diplomatic process. “We negotiated twice last year and this year, and then in the middle of negotiations they attacked us,” he said. “So we see no reason why we should engage once again with those who are not honest in negotiations and who do not enter talks in good faith.” Analysts say the increasingly confrontational rhetoric on both sides raises the risk of further escalation in an already volatile regional conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. For now, diplomatic channels appear limited, while military posturing from all sides continues to intensify. Iran US ground invasion tensions

The United States maintains several major military installations across the Gulf states, including Bahrain, Qatar and Kuwait. A viral message circulating widely on social media and messaging platforms claims that Iran has destroyed multiple United States military bases across the Gulf region, causing unprecedented losses to American forces . The statement is often attributed to Israeli writer and commentator Alon Mizrahi . However, a review of available information from official sources, defence analysts, and international media outlets shows that many of the claims contained in the viral text remain unverified or misleading. The Claim The viral post alleges that Iran has: Destroyed major U.S. military bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia Destroyed on a scale comparable to or exceeding the Attack on Pearl Harbor Forced the United States to abandon major installations across the region Achieved military dominance over American forces in the Middle East within a matter of days The message also suggests that censorship is preventing footage and information about the alleged destruction from reaching the public. No Confirmation From Governments or Military Sources As of the time of publication, none of the governments involved, including the United States, Iran, or the Gulf states hosting American bases, have confirmed the destruction of major military facilities on the scale described in the viral message. The United States maintains a network of bases across the region, including large installations in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. These facilities host thousands of troops and serve as critical logistics, air, and naval hubs for U.S. operations in the Middle East. Any large-scale destruction of these bases would likely trigger major international diplomatic responses and emergency security measures, as well as extensive global media coverage. No such confirmations have been issued. What Has Been Confirmed While tensions between Washington, Tehran, and regional allies have escalated in recent months, publicly available information indicates that the situation is far more complex than the viral claims suggest. Military analysts note that while missile and drone attacks have occurred across parts of the Middle East in previous confrontations, there is no evidence that multiple major U.S. bases have been destroyed or abandoned. In high-intensity conflicts, governments often restrict certain operational details for security reasons. However, experts say that destruction on the scale described in the viral message would be difficult to conceal due to satellite imagery, commercial tracking systems, and independent reporting. Why Viral War Claims Spread Quickly Security experts say that during periods of geopolitical tension, unverified narratives and exaggerated claims frequently spread online . Social media platforms and messaging apps allow dramatic claims to circulate quickly, often stripped of context or verification. Content framed as insider knowledge or suppressed information tends to gain traction rapidly, particularly when audiences are searching for updates about unfolding conflicts. Analysts warn that such posts can contribute to confusion and misinformation during already volatile situations. The Bottom Line There is currently no verified evidence supporting the claim that Iran has destroyed multiple U.S. military bases across the Gulf region or inflicted losses comparable to the scale described in the viral message. The statement attributed to Alon Mizrahi appears to be commentary circulating online rather than confirmed reporting. Readers are encouraged to rely on information from verified sources and official statements when assessing developments in complex international conflicts. Iran US bases fact check; Middle East conflict; US military bases; Alon Mizrahi viral claims

A viral video showing a man cooking sadza in Harare’s central business district has sparked debate about public health and informal trading. Jacob Mafume , the Mayor of Harare, has reacted to widespread public concern after a viral video showed a man cooking sadza in the open in the city centre. The footage circulating on social media shows a man seated in the central business district using a gas stove to prepare a large pot of Sadza alongside a saucepan containing relish. The video sparked strong reactions online, with many residents questioning the growing presence of informal food preparation on city streets. Mayor Calls for Possible Ban or Regulation Responding to the controversy, Mafume said city authorities would consult with relevant stakeholders on measures to address the situation, including the possibility of regulating or banning certain forms of informal trading. “We will consult the relevant authorities, but this calls for a complete ban on night-time trading or strict regulation of it. This type of serving food in the city centre is a serious public health risk. We have noted the economic push factors, but they do not justify this,” Mafume said. The mayor stressed that public health and hygiene standards must remain a priority even as economic hardships push some residents into informal economic activities. Public Debate Over City Standards The viral clip triggered widespread debate online, with many residents lamenting what they see as a decline in the standards of Harare, once widely known as the “Sunshine City.” Some social media users argued that the normalization of open-air cooking in the central business district raises concerns about hygiene, safety, and urban management. One user wrote: “Someone is cooking sadza on a gas stove and selling right at Copa Cabana. The Sunshine City is gone.” Another commenter expressed concern about public health risks, stating that law enforcement should act quickly to address food safety and taxation issues related to informal street food vending. Others, however, suggested that the situation reflects the broader economic pressures facing many residents, with informal trading becoming a key survival strategy for thousands of urban dwellers. Economic Pressures and Informal Trading Informal trading has grown significantly in Zimbabwe’s urban centres in recent years as unemployment and rising living costs push many citizens to seek alternative livelihoods. While such activities provide income for struggling households, they also present challenges for city authorities tasked with maintaining sanitation, public health standards, and urban order. City officials say consultations will determine whether new regulations or enforcement measures will be introduced to manage informal food vending in the CBD. Jacob Mafume; Harare CBD; cooking sadza

Authorities warn that fraudulent recruitment agencies are using social media and online adverts to lure Zimbabweans into human trafficking networks. Thousands of young Zimbabweans searching for better economic opportunities abroad are increasingly being targeted by human trafficking networks posing as overseas recruitment agencies. Authorities say traffickers are exploiting economic hardship by advertising attractive job offers promising high salaries, free travel, and guaranteed accommodation. Many of the adverts target women seeking domestic work in Middle Eastern countries such as Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates . Government officials warn that many of these opportunities are fraudulent schemes designed to lure desperate job seekers. “These fake opportunities are carefully crafted scams designed to exploit vulnerable people,” authorities said, noting that traffickers increasingly use social media platforms, WhatsApp groups and sponsored online adverts to recruit victims. Victims Trapped Under the Kafala System Once recruited and transported abroad, victims often find themselves trapped under the Kafala system, a labour sponsorship system used in several Middle Eastern countries. Under the system, a worker’s residency permit is tied directly to their employer. Survivors say employers frequently confiscate passports, leaving workers unable to change jobs, resign, or return home without permission. Human trafficking survivors have reported long working hours , physical and emotional abuse, food deprivation, and extreme isolation. In some cases, victims have suffered serious illness or died under exploitative conditions. Zimbabwe Steps Up Anti-Trafficking Efforts Zimbabwean authorities say significant efforts are underway to combat trafficking and rescue victims. Several groups of trafficked citizens have already been repatriated, while investigations have led to arrests of local agents working with international trafficking networks. Legal protections have also been strengthened through the Trafficking in Persons Amendment Bill, which enhances the country’s framework for prosecuting traffickers and protecting victims. However, officials warn that legislation alone cannot eliminate the problem. Public Awareness Critical Authorities say public vigilance, education, and community awareness are key to preventing further exploitation. Zimbabweans considering overseas employment are urged to verify recruitment agencies before applying for jobs abroad. Prospective workers should confirm that agencies are registered, ensure employment contracts meet international labour standards, and check whether government approval exists for employment in specific countries. Families and communities are also encouraged to report suspicious job advertisements to authorities. Experts say digital literacy campaigns are increasingly important as traffickers rely more heavily on online platforms to recruit victims. Officials warn that overly generous job offers should raise immediate suspicion. “No job is worth surrendering one's freedom, dignity or life,” authorities cautioned. “Offers that sound too good to be true are often traps.” Collective Action Needed Government agencies and civil society organisations are calling for a collective response to the growing threat of human trafficking. Educators, religious leaders, and community groups are being urged to support awareness campaigns aimed at protecting vulnerable citizens. As Zimbabwe continues to combat trafficking networks, officials say informed communities remain the strongest defence. Without greater awareness and vigilance, authorities warn, fraudulent job offers will continue to destroy lives. human trafficking Zimbabwe; fake overseas jobs; Human trafficking; job scams abroad; Kafala system exploitation

Tobacco Auction Floors Harare Harare —  The Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) says tobacco prices in Zimbabwe are beginning to stabilise after an early-season shock that saw some bales selling for as little as US$0.35 per kilogram , despite the first bale fetching US$4.60 per kilogram  at the start of the 2026 marketing season. The 2026 tobacco marketing season  officially opened on 4 March, with strong opening prices initially raising expectations among farmers. However, prices quickly dropped during the first days of trading, sparking concerns among growers and prompting some to threaten withdrawing their crop from auction floors. TIMB said the early price volatility was not the result of structural problems in the market but rather a combination of temporary factors affecting supply and demand. According to the regulator, a global oversupply of tobacco https://www.heraldonline.co.zw/global-tobacco-oversupply-wont-affect-local-farmers-timb/ , the early opening of sales floors, and limited participation from buyers at the start of the season contributed to the sudden price declines. “These early fluctuations are part of normal market adjustments and do not reflect a distortion of the tobacco marketing system,” the board said. The regulator added that prices have since begun recovering following the opening of additional contract sales floors, including those operated by Northern Tobacco. With more buyers entering the market, competition has improved, and prices have started to firm, the board said. TIMB also noted that no formal complaints from farmers were recorded during the most recent auction sessions , suggesting that confidence may be returning to the market as trading stabilises. Zimbabwe is one of the world’s leading producers of flue-cured tobacco, and the crop remains one of the country’s most important agricultural exports and sources of foreign currency. The tobacco marketing season typically runs for several months, with prices often fluctuating in the early weeks before stabilising as more buyers participate and supply patterns become clearer. TIMB said it will continue monitoring the market closely to ensure fair trading conditions. The board emphasised that protecting farmer welfare remains a key part of its mandate and warned that it would intervene if any conduct emerged that could undermine competition or disadvantage growers. “TIMB remains committed to safeguarding the interests of farmers while ensuring the integrity of the tobacco marketing system,” the board said. Farmers have also been encouraged to allow normal market dynamics to take effect as more buyers participate in the auctions. The regulator expressed confidence that broader buyer participation in the coming weeks would help restore stability and support more sustainable prices for growers. Zimbabwe tobacco prices TIMB

Batoka Artist's impression The Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA)  has set its sights on eliminating load shedding before the end of the year as it intensifies efforts to stabilize electricity supply and strengthen the national grid. This ambitious goal follows a record-breaking 41-day streak without power cuts earlier this year, signaling a major turning point for the utility. Speaking during the SADC Sustainable Energy Week  in Victoria Falls, ZESA executives briefed Vice President Dr. Constantino Chiwenga  on a multi-pronged roadmap designed to end persistent power shortages while advancing broader energy access targets. The Three-Pillar Strategy for Power Stability To ensure the goal is met, ZESA is focusing on a comprehensive overhaul of the electricity value chain. The utility’s strategy is built on three critical pillars: Generation: Diversifying the energy mix to reduce reliance on aging thermal plants. Transmission: Upgrading high-voltage lines to reduce technical losses. Distribution: Enhancing "last mile" connectivity for domestic and industrial users. Diversifying the Energy Mix: Solar, Wind, and Hydro ZESA is aggressively pivoting toward renewable and sustainable energy  to buffer the grid against fluctuating water levels at Lake Kariba and coal supply inconsistencies. Net Metering Expansion: Encouraging domestic and commercial users to generate their own solar power and feed the excess back into the national grid. Wind Energy: Feasibility studies are currently underway to identify high-potential wind corridors for turbine deployment. Major Projects: The long-awaited Batoka Gorge Hydro Power Project  remains a cornerstone of long-term energy security, expected to provide massive base-load power for both Zimbabwe and Zambia. Zimbabwe as a Regional Power Hub Leveraging its central location within the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) , Zimbabwe is upgrading its grid connections to enhance electricity trading with neighbors, including South Africa, Zambia, Mozambique, Botswana, and Namibia. By strengthening transmission infrastructure, ZESA aims to create a flexible system that can seamlessly import power during peak deficits and export surplus electricity during periods of low demand. The Drive for Universal Access by 2030 Parallel to stabilizing the grid, ZESA is accelerating its "last mile" electrification program. The utility has set a target to connect 320,000 households to the grid annually. This initiative is a critical component of Zimbabwe’s vision to achieve universal energy access by 2030 , ensuring that rural and underserved communities are not left behind in the country’s industrialization drive. ZESA load shedding update 2026

Bona Mugabe Chikore has been appointed deputy chairperson of the newly constituted EmpowerBank board tasked with supporting youth enterprises in Zimbabwe. Bona Mugabe , the daughter of the late former Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe, has been appointed deputy chairperson of the board of EmpowerBank following the constitution of a new seven-member board. The appointment was made by Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire as part of a restructuring of the state-backed financial institution aimed at strengthening youth empowerment initiatives. According to Statutory Instrument 132 of 2026 , announced by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary Solomon Mhlanga, the new board members will serve a four-year term. The appointments were made in line with provisions of the Public Entities and Corporate Governance Act. The newly constituted board will be chaired by William Chaitezvi, while Mrs. Chikore, also known as Bona Mugabe Chikore, will serve as deputy chairperson. Other members appointed to the board include Margaret Mupfiga, Patience Matshe, Ebrahim Ali Makunganya, Marcos Nyaruwanga, and Peter Makotsi. EmpowerBank is a government-backed financial institution established to provide funding and financial support to youth-led enterprises and empowerment initiatives across Zimbabwe. The new board is expected to guide the bank’s strategic direction, strengthen governance, and expand financial access for young entrepreneurs seeking capital to start or grow businesses. Officials say the institution plays a key role in supporting youth development, job creation, and economic participation, particularly as Zimbabwe continues efforts to improve access to finance for emerging entrepreneurs. Bona Mugabe Empower; BankEmpowerBank board

Residents in several Harare suburbs have been forced to rely on boreholes as the city battles a deepening water crisis. Jacob Mafume , the Mayor of Harare, has acknowledged that the city authorities are struggling to address the capital’s worsening water crisis, warning that the scale of the problem now exceeds the municipality’s capacity. Speaking on the ongoing water challenges affecting residents across the city, Mafume said the local authority cannot simply “perform abracadabra” to fix the crisis, highlighting the depth of infrastructure and environmental problems facing the capital. Appeal for National Government Intervention Mafume confirmed that the city has appealed to the national government for urgent support, writing to the Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet requesting intervention from Emmerson Mnangagwa. In the correspondence, the mayor warned that the situation presents a serious public health concern. “The contents of the Town Clerk’s letter present a clear and compelling case that the current situation in Harare is no longer tenable and poses an imminent threat to public health,” Mafume said. He cited several critical issues, including pollution in Lake Chivero and the deterioration of key water and sanitation infrastructure. “The issues highlighted, including the contamination of Lake Chivero and the widespread failure of critical infrastructure, demand urgent intervention at the highest level.” Mafume added that the scale and complexity of the crisis had outpaced the city council’s ability to respond effectively. Legal Action Over Pollution The environmental crisis has also triggered legal action from businessman Gary Stafford, who operates a wildlife park affected by pollution in Lake Chivero . Stafford has filed a lawsuit against the Harare City Council, Zimbabwe National Water Authority , Environmental Management Agency, and Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority over contamination that he says has led to the death of animals and fish and forced the suspension of lake-related tourism activities. “My claim is not merely premised on the death of animals. It is premised on the closure of lake activities, which negatively impacted my resort,” Stafford said. Residents Face Prolonged Water Shortages Meanwhile, residents in several suburbs, including Kuwadzana, say they have gone weeks without running water, forcing families to rely on boreholes and other alternative sources. Some residents report waiting several hours to access water from community boreholes due to high demand. Community leader Brian Mapira said residents have also struggled to get assistance with sewage blockages due to resource shortages within the council. Residents’ Groups Demand Accountability The Combined Harare Residents Association has also criticised the city council, arguing that the municipality must address service delivery failures while continuing to collect rates from residents. Harare has faced recurring water shortages for years, largely attributed to ageing infrastructure, population growth, and pollution in major water sources such as Lake Chivero, the city’s primary reservoir. Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume; water crisis; Harare residents

Old Mutual HARARE – A business development manager at Old Mutual has been convicted of raping a student from the University of Zimbabwe who was completing an internship at the financial services firm. Musa Nyasha Dube Manyika was found guilty on two counts of rape on Thursday following a full trial before Harare regional magistrate Estere Chivasa. The court convicted Manyika after ruling that the prosecution had proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt. He is expected to return to court for a pre-sentencing hearing, where the magistrate will consider aggravating and mitigating factors before handing down a sentence. Internship Period Assault According to the State, the complainant was a student at the University of Zimbabwe who was also a beneficiary of an Old Mutual scholarship when the alleged offences occurred. Prosecutor Chido Gohori told the court that the first incident took place in November 2022. Manyika allegedly sent the student a WhatsApp message asking her to assist him with packing promotional banners at Old Mutual Gardens, the company’s offices in Harare. The court heard that he collected the student from the University of Zimbabwe campus and drove with her to the office complex. Upon arrival, the accused allegedly took the complainant to his office, where he raped her. After the incident, the court was told that Manyika apologised and gave the student a branded T-shirt, a cap, and a juice bottle. He also allegedly threatened her, warning that her scholarship would be withdrawn if she reported the matter. Second Incident in 2024 The court heard that a second assault occurred nearly two years later, on June 19, 2024. Prosecutors said Manyika contacted the complainant again after work, telling her he wanted to discuss her career prospects. They agreed to meet at Ashbrittle Shops in Harare before Manyika offered to drive her home. However, instead of taking her directly to her residence, he allegedly drove into Belfast Road, where he stopped the vehicle. The State told the court that Manyika then adjusted the passenger seat where the complainant was seated before raping her inside the car. Following the assault, he drove her home and again apologised for his actions. Court Finds State Proved Its Case In her ruling, Magistrate Chivasa said the evidence presented by the prosecution was sufficient to secure a conviction. She found that the State had proved the allegations beyond a reasonable doubt, resulting in Manyika being convicted on both rape charges. The matter will return to court for a pre-sentencing hearing, where submissions from both the prosecution and defence will help determine the appropriate sentence. Old Mutual manager rape case Zimbabwe

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga touring Sandawana Mine in Mberengwa By Percy Nhara HARARE – Zimbabwe risks being judged harshly by future generations if it fails to industrialise its rural communities and retain value from its mineral wealth, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has warned. Speaking during a familiarisation tour of Sandawana Mine on Wednesday, Chiwenga supported the Cabinet’s decision to immediately ban the export of raw lithium and lithium concentrates, accelerating a restriction that had originally been planned for 2027. The mine, located in Mberengwa, is owned by the Mutapa Investment Fund under its energy minerals portfolio. Standing before the open pit at Sandawana, Chiwenga said the current generation would be remembered with contempt if Zimbabwe’s vast lithium reserves were extracted without creating lasting economic benefits. “It would be foolish to leave no legacy for future generations,” he said. “They will ask about those pits and we will tell them it was a lithium mine. They will ask what we benefitted, and if there is nothing to show, it will be a shame on us.” Push for Value Addition The vice president emphasised that Zimbabwe must transition from exporting raw minerals to developing local processing industries capable of adding value to its resources. “If we don’t leave anything for the future generations, they will spit on our graves,” he said. “Let us leave a legacy that will be respected.” He criticised the country’s previous experience with raw lithium exports, noting that the practice caused environmental damage and infrastructure strain without delivering meaningful national gains. “We were exporting lithium ore, our roads were getting destroyed by trucks, pollution, and everything, but we were getting nothing,” Chiwenga said. “When we do mining, we should do value addition for economic growth.” Rural Industrialisation Vision Chiwenga said mineral processing should drive industrialisation in rural communities where the resources are located, helping to transform economic opportunities beyond urban centres. “We want rural industrialisation and the growth of our nation,” he said. “We want to live to see the day where we will have tall buildings in Mberengwa, modern infrastructure where we once had pastures and mines. We must build cities here in the rurals.” Zimbabwe is believed to hold some of the largest lithium reserves in Africa, making the mineral a strategic resource in the global energy transition and electric vehicle supply chains. Lithium Plant Plans His remarks came as Sandawana Mine announced plans to build a lithium concentrator plant costing up to US$275 million. The facility is expected to process three million tonnes of ore annually, with commissioning targeted for December 2027. Officials say the government’s decision to accelerate the ban on raw lithium exports was prompted by widespread abuse of the window period originally granted to mining companies to prepare for beneficiation. On Tuesday, Mines Minister Polite Kambamura said some operators had used the grace period to intensify mining and stockpile lithium ore. Authorities also reported cases in which the ore was illicitly transported to neighbouring countries for future export. Government spokesperson Ndavaningi Mangwana condemned the practice, describing it as “nothing less than the plunder of our national heritage” and “a direct undermining of our sovereignty”. The Cabinet decision effectively closes the export window for unprocessed lithium with immediate effect. ‘Beneficiation Is No Longer Optional’ Addressing traditional leaders during the tour, Chiwenga said mineral beneficiation is now central to Zimbabwe’s economic transformation agenda. “We are not the first nor the last,” he said. “There are generations who came before us and left these natural resources. We should do the same and leave wealth for future generations.” The vice president is expected to tour several other mining projects in the Midlands province over the next three days as part of the government’s push to strengthen local value addition in the mining sector. Zimbabwe lithium export ban; VP Chiwenga