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Que Montana Reporter UK-based Zimbabwean Afropop powerhouse, Que Montana , has officially returned to the music scene — and he’s not just back, he’s on fire. With his sixth studio album, Afrivo Rhythms , the artist once again affirms his place as one of Zimbabwe’s most treasured musical exports. After years of musical silence, many expected a quiet return or perhaps a nostalgic reprise of the past. But instead, Que Montana has dropped what is already being dubbed “a modern-day masterpiece.” Speaking from his home in Stoke-on-Trent, United Kingdom, the ever-charismatic artist shared that Afrivo Rhythms  is not just another album — it’s a soulful offering of his personal journey, memories, and musical evolution. “This is more than just music to me. It’s a celebration of my roots, my growth, and my passion. Every beat, every lyric carries a piece of my heart,” he said. The album features 11 groundbreaking tracks, including Go Big or Go Home , Kumauro , Sahwira , and Sarura Wako  — songs that are already sending ripples through the music industry and across digital platforms. Each track blends rich African rhythms with modern sonic elements, offering a unique sound that’s both nostalgic and future-forward. A True Musical Visionary For those unfamiliar with Que Montana’s legacy, he’s no newcomer to the scene. His early days saw him share stages and studios with legends such as Tanga wekwa Sando, Andy Brown, Afrika Revenge, Dudu Manhenga, Sandra Ndebele, and many more. Internationally, he has collaborated with celebrated artists like Chris Aka, Bruno Migliari, and the Mwale Sisters, extending his influence across borders and genres. While many artists lose creative momentum after relocating abroad, Que Montana has defied the odds. His move to the UK has clearly reinvigorated his artistry, pushing him to create what critics are calling his best work yet. “Afrivo Rhythms feels like the reincarnation of Andy Brown, Don Gumbo, and Tanga Wekwa Sando — all fused with a modern Afropop twist,”  said one music critic. “It’s like a sonic time machine with one foot in the past and the other in the future.” In an unexpected but powerful twist, Que Montana has integrated Artificial Intelligence in the mixing and mastering process of the album. This has elevated the quality of production to global standards, offering crisp soundscapes while still retaining the raw authenticity of traditional African music. “I wanted to give people something they’ve never heard before — music that’s clean, modern, yet unmistakably African,” said Que. With plans already underway for a European tour, Que Montana is gearing up to perform at various international festivals, taking Zimbabwean music to the world stage. His trajectory and musical maturity have many comparing him to the legendary Oliver Mtukudzi — not in imitation, but in impact and influence. Whether you're a long-time fan or a new listener, one thing is certain: Que Montana is back — and he’s redefining what it means to be an African artist in the 21st century.

Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education Reporter Government is poised to extend its school feeding programme to secondary schools, a significant move aimed at bolstering educational outcomes and addressing food insecurity among students. This initiative will be supported by development partners, who are stepping in to ensure that schools, particularly those in remote rural areas, have the resources they need to implement effective feeding solutions. In an interview, Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education spokesperson Mr Taungana Ndoro emphasised the importance of home-grown solutions, noting that the community's active participation following a bumper harvest has been instrumental in this effort. “The programme is going on well. We are encouraging schools to implement home-grown feeding programmes to reduce dependency on the Government,” he stated, highlighting the collaborative approach that combines both government support and community involvement. The impact of the school feeding programme has been profound. It has not only boosted student attendance but also significantly improved nutrition among pupils. This initiative aligns with the Government's broader strategy to strengthen the education sector and combat food insecurity, particularly in light of recent challenges such as droughts exacerbated by climate change. Mr Ndoro pointed out that assessments conducted by the ministry have revealed a clear link between the provision of meals and improved school attendance, especially in rural areas. “Learners who receive regular meals are more focused, engaged, and perform better academically,” he explained. Zimbabwe National Union of School Heads secretary general Mr Munyaradzi Majoni explained the critical importance of the school feeding scheme. “The school feeding programme is going a long way in alleviating hunger in schools,” he remarked, urging the Government to expand this initiative to all public schools. He highlighted that even in higher-performing, affluent schools, there are vulnerable children who require support. “We appeal to the Government that the programme should be introduced to all public schools. In Group A schools, we can see that there are other children who are vulnerable. They need food as well,” he added, underscoring the need for inclusivity in educational support. The feeding programme has been particularly crucial for learners affected by the El Niño-induced drought, which has heightened food insecurity across many regions. By providing at least one hot meal daily, the programme not only alleviates hunger but also enhances educational outcomes. Under this initiative, Government supplies grain, while parents are encouraged to mobilise funds to purchase relish, ensuring that children receive nutritious meals that contribute to their overall well-being. Mr Ndoro noted that schools participating in the programme have recorded increased attendance rates, as students prioritise attending school to receive meals. This initiative has fostered stronger community involvement, with parents playing an active role in their children’s nutrition and education. “The Ministry remains committed to expanding this initiative to ensure that no child goes hungry while pursuing their education. We are continuously monitoring and evaluating the programme to make necessary adjustments and enhance its effectiveness,” he asserted. Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development permanent secretary Professor Obert Jiri expressed the ministry’s readiness to provide grain to schools, emphasising that village business units can also play a critical role in sustaining families. “As a ministry, we are ready to provide grain once requested by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education. Business units, if managed well, can also play a critical part in supporting children. They can grow vegetables for relish and even grain they can acquire from those business units,” he stated. Government's commitment to expanding the school feeding programme reflects a comprehensive approach to addressing food insecurity and enhancing educational outcomes across Zimbabwe.

World leaders at the Geneva meeting amidst the Israel-Iran conflict - (Creator: HANDOUT Credit: AFP) Reporter World leaders meeting in Geneva, Switzerland have urged all parties involved in the ongoing armed conflict between Israel and Iran calling for two weeks of ceasefire and diplomatic talks. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with his counterparts from France, Germany, and the United Kingdom in Geneva on Friday to discuss the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, which marked its eighth day with both sides launching another barrage of missiles. European leaders are hoping that a diplomatic solution can be achieved in the next two weeks—a deadline that U.S. President Donald Trump imposed on Thursday to decide whether to order direct U.S. military involvement against Iran. But Friday’s talks dissolved with no major breakthroughs, and both Iran and Israel remain adamant that negotiations cannot occur while strikes carry on. “We do not want to negotiate with anyone while the Zionist regime’s aggression continues,” Araghchi said in an address broadcast on Iranian state TV on Friday. “It is the Americans who want talks.” Danny Danon, Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations, cast similar doubts on the effectiveness of negotiations. “We have seen diplomatic talks for the last few decades, and look at the results,” Danon said, adding that Israel would only consider a genuine effort to dismantle Iran’s nuclear capabilities. Such a proposal may be in the works. On Friday, French President Emmanuel Macron said Europe was preparing a deal to end the conflict that would include Iran reducing its uranium enrichment to zero, restricting its ballistic missile program, and ending its funding of proxy groups, such as Hamas and Hezbollah. This deal will likely be rejected, though, as Tehran maintains that it has the right to enrich uranium on its soil for civilian purposes. Israel first launched strikes targeting Iranian nuclear and military infrastructure on the 13th of June, hitting uranium enrichment facilities, top military leaders, and other alleged command centers used by the Iranian government. Iran has retaliated with hundreds of drones and missile strikes, and it pulled out of nuclear talks with the United States originally scheduled for last Sunday. This week, Trump called for unconditional surrender from Iran, which went ignored; took partial credit for control of Iranian airspace; and suggested that the United States might consider assassinating Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Trump will do “what’s best for America,” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday. “I can tell you that they’re already helping a lot.” It is unclear whether Trump will order U.S. armed forces to assist Israel directly by targeting Iran’s nuclear sites. Such an attack would likely include U.S. B-2 bombers dropping bunker buster bombs on Fordow, a major underground uranium enrichment facility in Iran. But experts warn that U.S. involvement to that scale could exacerbate the conflict and produce dangerous results. Armed attack on nuclear facilities “could result in radioactive releases with grave consequences within and beyond the boundaries of the state which has been attacked,” Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, warned the United Nations Security Council on Friday. (Online Sources)

UNFPA Representative Miranda Tabifor (left) shakes hands with WFP Representative Barbara Clemens (image source ) Reporter In a significant move to enhance food security, health and nutrition support in Zimbabwe, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the World Food Programme (WFP) have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in Harare. This partnership aims to address the intertwined needs of the population by integrating sexual and reproductive health services with food assistance initiatives. Speaking during the signing ceremony, UNFPA Representative Ms. Miranda Tabifor said the agency is committed to ensuring that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person’s potential is fulfilled. “We recognise that these goals cannot be achieved in isolation. This partnership with WFP, as the UN’s frontline agency in the fight against hunger and malnutrition, allows us to leverage our respective strengths and expertise for greater impact,” she said. She said the collaboration will specifically target women and young people, utilising WFP's existing food distribution platforms to reach a broader audience with essential services and information. “By targeting the same beneficiaries, we can reach more people with the services they need.” This partnership builds on a history of collaboration between the two organisations, including a 2016 agreement for providing food to pregnant women in Maternity Waiting Homes and logistical support during crises such as Cyclone Idai and the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently, integrated services were provided during food distribution in Buhera, where UNFPA’s implementing partner, the Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council, offered outreach family planning services. Through this agreement, UNFPA will enhance maternal, newborn, family planning, HIV, and gender-based violence services in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Child Care. They will also train food distribution stakeholders in Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) and gender-based violence risk mitigation. WFP Zimbabwe Representative Barbara Clemens highlighted the importance of this collaboration. “WFP and UNFPA are coming together to deliver integrated responses, linking food security with sexual and reproductive health, nutrition with protection, and dignity with empowerment.” She said this partnership means that when women and adolescent girls visit food distribution sites, they can also access vital information on family planning and available services.Both organisations reaffirmed their commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 2 on Zero Hunger, Goal 3 on Good Health and Wellbeing, and Goal 5 on Gender Equality. By joining forces, UNFPA and WFP are dedicated to reducing duplication, improving efficiency, and harnessing their strengths to support the Government of Zimbabwe in addressing these critical issues.

AfDB logo Reporter The Zimbabwean government has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing national development through closer collaboration with the African Development Bank (AfDB), following a successful 2025 Country Portfolio Performance Review (CPPR) workshop held in Harare. Acting Chief Director in the Ministry of Finance Mrs. Margireta Makuwaza emphasised the alignment of the AfDB’s Country Brief (2024–2026) with Zimbabwe's National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1, 2021–2025). “Through prioritising governance, accountability and private sector growth, we are laying a solid foundation for the next phase of our development journey under NDS 2, which aims to transform the economy to achieve upper-middle-income status by 2030,’’ she said. The CPPR is viewed not merely as an evaluation exercise but as a high-level forum for co-creating solutions, sharing best practices, and building a collective vision for impactful development.AfDB representatives outlined their strategic priorities, highlighting a financing portfolio of US$137 million aimed at fostering inclusive and resilient growth. Belinda Chesire, AfDB Country Programme Officer, reiterated the importance of the CPPR workshop. “This CPPR workshop is more than just an evaluation; it is a platform to co-create solutions, share knowledge, and build a collective vision for impact,” she said. Over US$40 million has been directed towards credit lines and trade finance facilities, unlocking opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These initiatives are designed to catalyse job creation and diversify the economy. Economist Gladys Shumbambiri-Mutsopotsi noted the AfDB’s increased engagement with the private sector is a game-changer for Zimbabwe’s SMEs. Through improving access to affordable finance and technical assistance, these facilities are laying the groundwork for sustainable growth. She also emphasised the significance of renewable energy projects, particularly solar feasibility studies at Kariba. “This will not only boost energy security but also attract fresh investments into our green economy.” The workshop culminated in the drafting of a new Country Portfolio Improvement Plan (CPIP), which will serve as a roadmap for project implementation and maximizing development outcomes. This plan will be submitted for approval to the AfDB’s Board Committee on Development Effectiveness and the Government of Zimbabwe. The successful convening of the CPPR workshop has reinforced the commitment between Zimbabwe and the AfDB to drive inclusive and sustainable growth.

The ZimTrade Logo Reporter ZimTrade , Zimbabwe's national trade development body, is leading an outward trade-seller mission to Beira, Mozambique, from July 1 to 3, featuring 15 export-ready Zimbabwean companies. This initiative follows a market scan conducted in March 2025, which identified significant export opportunities for local businesses. ZimTrade chief executive officer, Mr. Allan Majuru, said the study established immediate trade potential and long-term partnership opportunities that local exporters can capitalise on. "Mozambican businesses demonstrated particular interest in our construction materials, agricultural inputs and processed food products, with many importers actively seeking reliable suppliers," he said. The demand in Mozambique's booming construction sector is notable, with Zimbabwean exports including US$5.5 million in steel and US$1.4 million in timber in 2023. Additionally, Mozambique currently absorbs 19 percent of Zimbabwe’s cereal exports, along with horticultural products like tea, coffee, avocados, macadamias, and pineapples. ZimTrade emphasised that the outward mission offers businesses a platform to engage with Mozambican counterparts, explore trade opportunities, and secure export orders for products already in demand. The Zimbabwean delegation comprises companies from key sectors, including processed foods, horticulture, building and construction materials, agricultural inputs, PPEs (personal protective equipment), leather products, and services. The three-day mission will begin with a Trade and Investment Conference, bringing together business executives, trade support institutions, Mozambican government officials, and importers. This mission aligns with a May 2023 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ZimTrade, ZIDA, and Mozambique’s APIEX, which promotes joint participation in trade events and institutional exchanges. According to ZimTrade, the agreement encourages knowledge sharing, business matchmaking, and market expansion, which are the key objectives of the Beira mission. ZimTrade has been actively organizing similar trade missions, including a 2024 outward mission to Tete Province, which helped local firms establish distribution partnerships and even set up operations in Mozambique. This has strengthened trade ties between the two nations, supported by their geographic proximity. Mozambique is Zimbabwe’s fourth-largest export market, with data from Trades Map showing a 12 percent increase in exports from US$354 million in 2019 to US$398 million in 2023. Local companies have been benefiting from a bilateral agreement signed in 2005, allowing duty-free trade with 25 percent local value addition. Both countries are also part of the SADC Protocol, which aims to reduce trade barriers. Outward seller missions organised by ZimTrade align with the Government’s National Export Strategy of growing exports by 10 percent annually. Since its inception, President Mnangagwa’s administration has focused on promoting investment through engagement, re-engagement, and policy thrusts such as "Zimbabwe is Open for Business." The Government has demonstrated its commitment to economic growth, development, and investment promotion through a range of business-friendly economic policy reforms and the issuance of various incentives such as tax breaks.

Former President of Zambia Reporter This was a growing story, Click here for the Latest Update. The family of the late former Zambian President Edgar Lungu has stopped the transportation of his remains from South Africa, citing a breach of funeral arrangements by the government. According to family spokesperson Makebi Zulu, the return was suspended after the Zambian government allegedly issued a funeral programme without consulting the family. Family members have accused the government of reneging on crucial funeral agreements and say they have lost confidence in the state’s willingness to uphold its commitments. Lungu's remains were expected to arrive in Zambia on Wednesday, June 18, via a private charter, but according to family spokesperson Makebi Zulu, the return was suspended after the Zambian government allegedly issued a funeral programme without consulting the family. The development comes despite the two parties reaching an agreement earlier this week over key burial arrangements, including the choice of mourning venue, who would repatriate his body from South Africa and who should preside over the funeral. Despite accusing the government of failing to honour its part of the funeral agreement, Zulu said the family remains optimistic that the situation will be resolved and that the deceased will be repatriated and given a proper burial in Zambia. His body was expected to lie in state at his residence, then be taken to a conference centre in the capital, Lusaka, for three days starting Thursday, allowing the public to pay their respects. A state funeral had also been planned for Sunday, June 22, with official mourning ending on June 23. When the family and Zambian government initially came to a consensus, they announced that Lungu would be laid to rest next Monday, although it remained unclear whether his final resting place would be the official presidential burial site or his private residence.The former president died earlier this month while undergoing specialised medical care in South Africa. Online news sources

Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu Reporter The family of the late Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu has confirmed that the former head of state will be laid to rest in Johannesburg, South Africa, following a private family ceremony. In a statement issued today, Lungu family spokesperson Hon. Makebi Zulu said this is in accordance with the family’s wishes. Hon. Zulu expressed deep appreciation for the support received from across Africa and commended the South African government for its non-interference and respect for their decision. In the statement, Hon. Zulu said that the family seeks peace and unity amongst fellow Zambians during this time and thanked all friends, supporters, and members of the public for their understanding, compassion, and willingness to mourn the former Head of State. He further added that more funeral details will be communicated in due course. This development follows a statement by Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema where he acknowledged the dispute over funeral arrangements with the Lungu family and announced the official end of the mourning period on the 19th of June. Previously, the government had indicated that Lungu would be given a state funeral on Monday the 23rd of June, which the Lungu family had disputed, citing that the government had made the announcement without fully consulting them. Mr. Hichilema, however, said the government had made numerous efforts to engage the family and representatives of the late president in order to reach consensus in this matter.

Wheat Farmers Harvesting Reporter Mashonaland West province has emerged as the top region in Zimbabwe for wheat production, with 35,000 hectares dedicated to the crop out of a national total of 120,007ha. This significant achievement marks a record in wheat hectarage, with expectations of producing over 600,000 tonnes, signaling a move toward self-sufficiency in wheat production. The province is recognised as the country’s major contributor of agricultural produce due to its favorable weather patterns and rich soils. In recent cropping seasons, Mashonaland West has consistently surpassed its targets and was also named the best in the climate-proofed Pfumvudza/Intwasa scheme. A weekly update from the Agricultural Advisory and Rural Development Services (AARDS) revealed that the province has exceeded its target of 34,000ha. Statistics show that of the 121,000ha of wheat planted nationwide, Mashonaland West has planted 100 percent of its target. In comparison, Mashonaland Central follows with 27,874ha, exceeding its target of 27,000 hectares at 103 percent. Mashonaland East has planted 22,866ha, surpassing its target of 22,500ha at 102 percent. Other provinces, such as Manicaland, Midlands, Masvingo, Matabeleland North, and Matabeleland South, have also shown commendable performance, with each exceeding or nearing their respective targets. Mashonaland West continues to be the anchor of the country’s agricultural revolution. Farmers in the area have become torchbearers in various farming disciplines, striving to reposition Zimbabwe as a breadbasket. This progress is expected to reduce or eliminate the food import bill, with the ultimate goal of maintaining an upper middle-income economy by 2030, in line with the National Development Strategy 1. The province has proved to be the engine of agricultural production for various crops, including wheat, maize, tobacco, and cotton. Thanks to its favorable climate, numerous dams, and large silos in Banket and Lions Den, farmers in Mashonaland West have demonstrated their capacity to excel. This season, they are expected to produce over 600,000 tonnes of wheat, significantly above the annual target of 360,000 tonnes. The focus is now on implementing good agronomic practices to maximise productivity, supported by Farmer Field Schools (FFS). Zimbabwe is optimistic that this year’s winter wheat production will enhance food security, following various Government interventions and private sector engagement aimed at achieving a record harvest. The wheat crop benefits from support through private contractors, the National Enhanced Agricultural Productivity Scheme (NEAPS), presidential wheat support, and self-financed growers. For the past four seasons, Zimbabwe and Ethiopia have been the only two countries in Africa that have achieved wheat self-sufficiency. In a recent interview, Zimbabwe Commercial Farmers' Union (ZCFU) president Dr Shadreck Makombe expressed optimism about the commitment shown by farmers. “The commitment shown by farmers is good. They should maintain good agronomic practices so that they produce over five tonnes per ha in order to meet a target of 600,000 tonnes,” he said. He said that a holistic approach is needed to ensure that the target is met, warning that failure to do so will hinder productivity levels. “Fire guards should be established. Getting advice from extension workers is also key. Farmers should be on the lookout for quelea birds,” he advised. Agricultural Advisory and Rural Development Services acting director Leonard Munamati underscored the importance of good agronomic practices in unlocking the country's agricultural potential. “Good agronomic practices are the only ways to increase productivity. It is important to employ good agronomic practices to any cropping venture to unlock the value,” he said. Statistics from the ministry indicate that water resources will be sufficient for irrigation this season. Large dams have the capacity to irrigate 82,800ha, with on-farm dams capable of irrigating 25,600ha, rivers 9,800ha, boreholes 10,800ha, and vleis 1,000ha, totaling an impressive 120,000ha. Through collective efforts in wheat production, Zimbabwe aims to enhance its food security and ensure a sustainable agricultural future for the nation.

A Dam Under Construction Reporter In a bold move to secure the nation’s food future, Government is making significant strides in enhancing food security through the construction of major dams designed to improve irrigation across the country. These initiatives reflect a steadfast commitment to expanding irrigation development, with six completed dams now capable of irrigating a total of 56,650 hectares. Among these, the Tugwi Mukosi Dam in Masvingo stands out, with the potential to irrigate 40,000ha in Chivi and Chiredzi. Other key projects include the Marovanyati Dam in Manicaland, expected to irrigate 1,250ha in Buhera, and the Muchekeranwa Dam in Mashonaland East, which can cover 1,400ha in Makoni and Marondera. Additionally, the Mutirikwi Dam in Masvingo has a capacity of 3,000ha, while the Biri Dam in Mashonaland West can irrigate 4,000ha. The Lilstock Dam in Mashonaland Central is set to benefit 7,000ha across Bindura, Mazowe, and Mt Darwin. Government is also actively investing in ongoing projects, with dams under construction expected to irrigate an additional 38,953ha. Notable among these are the Semwa Dam in Mashonaland Central, projected to irrigate 12,000ha in Rushinga, and the Gwayi Shangani Dam in Matabeleland North, anticipating 10,000ha of irrigation in Hwange. Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development deputy minister Vangelis Haritatos emphasised the urgent need for climate-smart irrigation to counter the impacts of climate change. “Climate change is with us and damaging our country. The start is to ensure that we move away from rain-fed agriculture to climate-smart irrigation development. This is our ministry’s primary concern right now for the next two to three years,” he said. Acknowledging the challenges posed by an El Niño-induced drought that affected grain production, Cde Haritatos noted that approximately 230,000ha are currently under irrigation, which is less than the targeted 500,000ha. Government recognises the necessity of expanding irrigation capacity, aiming to develop an additional 270,000ha for agricultural use, primarily focusing on cereal crops to bolster food self-sufficiency. “Out of the 500,000ha that we are targeting, 350,000ha must be for cereal crops,” he projected, anticipating a yield of approximately two million tonnes of cereal. In addition to enhancing irrigation infrastructure, the Government is taking proactive measures to climate-proof agriculture through extensive dam construction. This initiative is crucial for building community resilience against climate shocks, particularly droughts. The establishment of Village Business Units is a pivotal aspect of this strategy, designed to serve all 35,000 villages across Zimbabwe. These units will revolve around solar-powered boreholes and drip-irrigated plots, benefiting about 50 households in each village. Plans for aggregation, value addition, and beneficiation are also in place to stimulate rural industrialisation and catalyse development. Dr Anxious Masuka reinforced Government’s commitment to improving food security. “Zimbabwe is projected to become drier in the decades ahead. The measures taken to climate-proof agriculture must, therefore, be consolidated and accelerated.” He highlighted the significance of sustainable agricultural models, referencing Zimbabwe’s success in conservation agriculture and its mechanisation efforts that have garnered attention beyond the region. Through these concerted efforts, Government is laying a solid agricultural foundation to support accelerated rural industrialisation and development, addressing both current needs and future challenges posed by climate change.

Water Weeds blooming in the water Reporter The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development has successfully implemented biological control methods to combat invasive aquatic weeds in Chinyika Dam 2 in Goromonzi and Lake Chivero. This innovative approach not only addresses the pressing issue of weed infestation but also promotes environmental sustainability, highlighting the potential of natural solutions in managing ecological challenges. Aquatic weeds, particularly Kariba weed ( Salvinia molesta ) and water hyacinth ( Eichhornia crassipes ), pose significant threats to Zimbabwe's water bodies. These invasive species reduce available oxygen, obstruct recreational activities, clog irrigation systems, and degrade water quality. They have emerged as a major concern for local communities that rely on these water sources for fishing, irrigation, and recreation. A Research Officer under Agricultural Research, Innovation and Specialist Services, Mr Nathan Sangombe, overseeing the biological control of invasive species, shared insights into the program initiated in March 2023. “We released a total of 1 400 Kariba weed weevils. The dam was 100 percent covered by the weed, so we developed a biocontrol program and released these weevils gradually over four months,” he explained. This strategic release was designed to ensure that the weevils could easily access one another for mating, thereby increasing their population densities effectively. As the seasons changed, Sangombe noted that the population densities grew slowly due to lower temperatures. “As we approached the warmer months of August and September, we began to see increases. By June 2024, we were getting approximately 2 000 weevils per square meter, leading to significant clearing of the weeds,” he said. The success of this biological control program underscores the effectiveness of natural methods in managing invasive species. “If people can witness how biological control works without chemicals, it shows the potential to restore aquatic ecosystems without harming the environment, humans, or livestock,” Mr Sangombe emphasised. This approach not only helps in managing the weeds but also aligns with global sustainability goals, promoting a healthier ecosystem. Community involvement is crucial for the success of such programs. Mr Sangombe urged all stakeholders to collaborate in the fight against invasive species. “For biological control programs to be successful, we need an integrated approach, with local communities taking ownership.” His call to action highlights the importance of collective effort in environmental stewardship. A researcher from Rhodes University, Dr Gerald Chikowore, said weed infestations affect water quality because they thrive in nutrient-rich systems. “The presence of these weeds indicates that the water is compromised,” he said. He stressed that the impact of invasive species extends beyond aesthetics, affecting the entire aquatic ecosystem and the organisms that depend on it. Farmers have also expressed hope for the future. Zimbabwe Farmers Union Vice President Mr Fidelis Gweshe said he is positive that the weeds will not thrive again. “I’m happy about the clear water we are now getting from the dam. We encourage our farmers to avoid farming too close to the dams to prevent further issues like siltation.” His comments reflect the positive changes occurring in the community as a result of the biological control efforts. As the Ministry continues its efforts to rehabilitate irrigation systems, they strive to enhance food security and livelihoods for farmers dependent on these water sources. Plant Protection Research Institute acting head, Mrs Grace Hama, said the programme is showing positive results. “We started our project of releasing bio-agents against water hyacinth in November 2023, and we are seeing positive results. We hope to clear the weeds within a year,” she said. The effective use of biological control methods not only revives vital water bodies but also sets a precedent for sustainable environmental management in Zimbabwe. By embracing natural solutions, the Ministry is paving the way for future initiatives that prioritise ecological balance and community involvement, ensuring that both people and the environment thrive together.

The Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) Reporter Farmers across Zimbabwe are set to benefit significantly from the Tobacco Inputs Credit Scheme (TICS) debt relief program recently announced by the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB). This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burdens faced by thousands of smallholder and communal tobacco growers who have struggled to repay their loans due to a range of economic challenges. Introduced in 2017, TICS was designed to support tobacco farmers, particularly those not under contract, by providing essential inputs on credit for production. However, many growers have encountered difficulties in managing their debts, stemming from economic hardships, climate shocks, and operational constraints that have hindered their ability to sustain viable tobacco production. In response to these pressing issues, TIMB is rolling out a comprehensive debt relief package that promises renewed hope and opportunity for farmers. Key measures of the scheme include a 50 percent discount on outstanding debts for TICS beneficiaries who make payments at any TIMB office by May 31. This significant reduction offers a pathway for farmers to regain their footing in the tobacco sector and continue their production efforts. TIMB CEO Emmanuel Matsvaire said the entity is committed to improving tobacco growing. “This initiative reflects our commitment to inclusive and sustainable agriculture, ensuring no farmer is left behind. By relieving this debt, we not only give these farmers a fresh start but also strengthen the foundations of the Tobacco Value Chain Transformation Plan (TVTP),” he said. Mr. Matsvaire emphasised that the goal of the TVTP is to improve livelihoods, promote local financing, and expand production to an ambitious target of 300 million kilograms annually. For elderly farmers over the age of 65 and the relatives of deceased TICS beneficiaries, additional support is also available. These individuals are encouraged to visit their nearest TIMB office with certified national identity documents to negotiate further discounts. This inclusive approach ensures that the most vulnerable farmers receive the assistance they need to thrive. TIMB has strategically positioned offices in Harare, Mutare, Rusape, Marondera, Chinhoyi, Karoi, Mvurwi, and Bindura to enhance accessibility for all tobacco growers. Farmers aged 65 and older must provide certified copies of their IDs, while families of deceased beneficiaries need to submit a certified death certificate, burial order, or an official letter stamped by both the village head and the councillor. This timely intervention comes amid the 2025 tobacco marketing season, where many growers are currently liquid and can take advantage of this opportunity to alleviate their legacy debt. As of May 16, 2025, farmers had already sold 189.2 million kilograms of tobacco worth US$639.7 million. While the season began slowly, Mr. Matsvaire noted a positive trend in tobacco deliveries, expressing confidence in reaching the target of 300 million kilograms this season. The first sale of Naturally Cured Virginia (NCV) tobacco, grown in Mangwe district, Matabeleland South, was made on May 22 at the Atlas Agri contract floor in Marula. This event marked a crucial milestone in the marketing season, signaling a renewed momentum for the sector. Zimbabwe Tobacco Growers Association (ZTGA) chairman George Seremwe praised the debt relief initiative. “It’s indeed good that these farmers should pay back the credits which emanated from TICS. We encourage farmers to heed the call and pay back to avoid any other challenges,” he said. He also highlighted the importance of future programs, calling for initiatives that incorporate farmer feedback to enhance recovery rates and overall effectiveness. Mr. Seremwe expressed appreciation for the Government’s efforts but urged TIMB to engage with farmer organisations when implementing such programs. “At times, these initiatives are done without the input of the farmers, which can lead to misunderstandings,” he noted. He encouraged collaboration between TIMB and farmers to ensure the success of the debt relief program and to bolster the resilience of the agricultural sector.