The European Council building in Brussels The European Union  has officially narrowed its restrictive measures against Zimbabwe, transitioning the framework to a strict arms embargo. Under the newly adopted Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/383 , the measures have been extended for an additional year, now set to expire on February 20, 2027. The Council further decided that the title of the original Decision (2011/101/CFSP) be amended to reflect that the restrictive framework now exclusively governs the trade and transfer of military equipment and arms. Broad International Alignment In a show of regional and continental solidarity with the EU’s foreign policy, ten "third countries" have formally aligned themselves with the decision . These nations have committed to ensuring their national policies conform to the updated restrictive measures: Balkan Nations: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia. EEA/EFTA Members: Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. Eastern Europe: Republic of Moldova and Ukraine. The European Union has formally acknowledged and welcomed this commitment, which strengthens the enforcement of the arms embargo across a broader geographic area. The Shift in Restrictive Measures The limitation of the framework to an arms embargo signals a continuing evolution in the EU-Zimbabwe diplomatic landscape . While the embargo remains to prevent the flow of weapons, the absence of broader economic sanctions in this specific framework highlights a targeted approach to regional security. Official records indicate the decision was adopted on February 17, 2026, and published in the Official Journal of the European Union the following day. EU Zimbabwe arms embargo 2027

Map showing Cameroon’s Anglophone North-West and South-West regions affected by separatist conflict Belgian authorities have arrested three individuals as part of an investigation into alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes linked to the separatist conflict in Cameroon, prosecutors confirmed on Tuesday. The arrests were carried out under Belgium’s universal jurisdiction laws, which allow courts to prosecute serious international crimes regardless of where they were committed. Prosecutors said the investigation relates to alleged atrocities connected to the ongoing armed rebellion in Cameroon’s English-speaking North-West and South-West regions. The three suspects are believed to be senior figures within the Ambazonia Defence Forces (ADF), an armed separatist group seeking independence for the minority Anglophone regions in the predominantly French-speaking Central African nation. According to prosecutors, the suspects are accused of coordinating and directing attacks against civilians and security forces in Cameroon from abroad. Authorities further allege that the individuals were involved in raising funds and providing logistical support from Belgium to finance separatist operations on the ground. The conflict in Cameroon’s Anglophone regions began in 2016 following protests by lawyers and teachers who said the French-speaking central government was marginalising English-speaking communities. What started as largely peaceful demonstrations escalated into an armed separatist insurgency after a government crackdown. Since then, fighting between government forces and separatist groups has displaced hundreds of thousands of people and led to widespread reports of human rights abuses. Both sides have been accused by rights organisations of committing violations, including unlawful killings, torture, and the targeting of civilians. Belgian prosecutors did not disclose the identities of the suspects but said they would appear before a magistrate for further questioning. It remains unclear whether formal charges have been filed. Legal experts say the case could mark a significant development in efforts to pursue accountability for crimes committed during the conflict. Belgium has previously exercised universal jurisdiction in cases involving alleged international crimes, particularly when suspects are believed to be residing within its territory. Cameroon’s government has consistently described the separatist groups as terrorist organisations, while separatist leaders maintain they are fighting for self-determination under the banner of a breakaway state they call Ambazonia. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have indicated that further arrests are possible as evidence continues to be reviewed. Belgium arrests; Cameroon war crimes; Ambazonia Defence Forces; crimes against humanity; Cameroon; Anglophone crisis

The Pentagon building in Arlington, Virginia. A prominent military watchdog group has reported a disturbing trend within the U.S. Armed Forces, alleging that some commanders are using extremist Christian rhetoric, including "end times" biblical narratives, to justify ongoing military operations in Iran . The Military Religious Freedom Foundation (MRFF)  reveals it has received over 200 complaints from service members across the Army, Marines, Air Force, and Space Force. The reports suggest that the conflict is being framed not merely as a matter of national security, but as a biblically mandated precursor to the apocalypse. "Anointed for Armageddon" In one high-profile complaint shared with journalist Jonathan Larsen, a noncommissioned officer (NCO) representing 15 troops alleged that their commander described the conflict as "part of God's divine plan." According to the report, the commander explicitly linked current geopolitical events to the Book of Revelation, stating: "President Trump has been anointed by Jesus to light the signal fire in Iran to cause Armageddon and mark his return to Earth." Notably, the group of complainants is religiously diverse, including 11 Christians, one Muslim, and one Jewish service member, all of whom expressed alarm at the framing of military duty as a religious crusade. The Role of Leadership and Christian Nationalism MRFF President Mikey Weinstein , an Air Force veteran, warned that this "euphoria" over a biblically sanctioned war violates the fundamental separation of church and state. "Military members are not really able to stand up for themselves, because your military superior is not your shift manager at Starbucks," Weinstein noted. The complaints also point toward U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth . Hegseth has faced scrutiny for his ties to Christian reconstructionism  and the doctrine of "sphere sovereignty." In 2025, Hegseth drew criticism for resharing content from Pastor Doug Wilson, an influential figure who has historically opposed women serving in military combat and leadership roles. Pentagon Response The Pentagon  has declined to address the specific allegations of religious extremism. Instead, officials have pointed to public remarks by Hegseth about the strategic necessity of operations in Iran. For critics, the lack of a direct rebuttal raises concerns that religious extremism may be influencing military decision-making during one of the most volatile periods in Middle Eastern history. Military religious extremism Iran war

Traffic congestion on Seke Road Authorities in Harare have announced plans to introduce double lanes at selected controlled points along Seke Road in a bid to ease traffic congestion during peak hours. Seke Road is the main arterial route linking the capital to Chitungwiza and surrounding areas, and has experienced mounting congestion in recent years due to rapid population growth and expanding residential developments. Speaking during a traffic control and road safety campaign on Monday, Nomore Phiri, chairperson of the Harare District Traffic Liaison Committee, said the increasing volume of vehicles along the corridor has become a major concern for authorities. “The increasing volume of traffic along Seke Road has become a significant concern,” Phiri said. “This congestion reflects the growing population in Chitungwiza, Seke, Dema and the new residential stands in Manyame Rural District.” Phiri said the proposed intervention will allow motorists to temporarily utilise double lanes at designated points during rush hour under controlled supervision. To implement the measure, police will work closely with the Harare District Traffic Liaison Committee to manage traffic flows during peak periods. “We have requested that law enforcement allow some motorists to utilise double lanes at designated points twice or thrice during peak hours. Our goal is to facilitate smoother traffic flow,” he said. Authorities emphasised that the measure will be strictly monitored to prevent disorder and reduce the risk of accidents. Phiri urged motorists to exercise patience and refrain from creating unauthorised or “imaginary” lanes, warning that such behaviour worsens congestion and compromises safety. “It’s concerning to see passengers advising drivers to defy traffic rules,” he said. “This behaviour is not only irresponsible but also dangerous.” He added that traffic flow has already improved along several major routes following ongoing coordination efforts between traffic authorities and law enforcement. These include the Mabvuku turn-off along Mutare Road, Kirkman Road, Bulawayo Road, and Simon Muzenda Road. Seke Road remains one of the busiest routes into Harare’s central business district, carrying thousands of commuters daily from high-density suburbs and satellite towns. Authorities say further monitoring will determine whether the controlled double-lane system becomes a permanent feature during peak periods as part of broader traffic management reforms. Harare congestion; Seke Road traffic; Chitungwiza; Zimbabwe traffic reforms

Silveira Mission Hospital A 31-year-old man from Buhera has died after allegedly drinking an unknown liquid at his in-laws’ home in Bikita following a domestic dispute, police have confirmed. The incident occurred on 27 February at around 6 pm in Village 7B under Chief Budzi. The deceased has been identified as Courage Zvoumba of Chief Nyashanu in Buhera. He had reportedly travelled to his wife’s family home in an effort to resolve marital differences. According to Masvingo provincial police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu, a misunderstanding arose during the discussions. Zvoumba’s wife allegedly told her parents that she no longer wished to continue the marriage, accusing him of being violent and abusive. Police say that after the exchange, Zvoumba produced a 500ml bottle containing an unidentified liquid and consumed its contents. “He suddenly collapsed and started vomiting,” Assistant Inspector Patinyu said. Family members attempted to administer first aid, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. The body was taken to Silveira Mission Hospital for a post-mortem examination. Authorities have not yet confirmed the nature of the substance consumed, and investigations are ongoing. Police have urged members of the public to seek peaceful solutions to domestic disputes and to involve community leaders or relevant authorities where necessary. “Taking drastic action only leads to loss of life and leaves families devastated,” Assistant Inspector Patinyu said. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm , it is important to seek immediate help from a trusted person, community leader, health professional, or local support services. Buhera man dies; Bikita domestic dispute; Masvingo police

Celebration Church in Westgate, Harare. Four armed robbers raided Celebration Church  in Westgate, Harare, making off with US$500 in cash and two laptops in a brazen late-night attack. The suspects, reportedly armed with a pistol and a rifle, allegedly blasted open a safe after overpowering security personnel. During the robbery, they neutralized two security guards, binding their hands and legs with wires and electrical cables before locking them inside a guard room. The Heist: Precision and Force After restraining the guards, the robbers proceeded to the church office, where they used an unidentified tool to force entry. Inside, they broke into a steel cabinet and retrieved a cash safe containing US$500 along with two HP laptops. The attackers also searched the security guards, stealing an additional US$30 and two Itel cellphones. In a display of unnecessary violence, the guards were assaulted with a knobkerrie during the incident. The ordeal only came to an end when a response driver from Safeguard Security  arrived at the premises and freed the bound guards. Police Launch Investigation Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP)  provincial spokesperson for Harare, Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, confirmed the incident and stated that active investigations are underway. "Police are investigating an armed robbery case at the church premises in Westgate. The security guards sustained minor injuries and are in stable condition. The total value stolen is US$620, and nothing has been recovered as of yet. A live round was found in the guard room where the security guards were bound," said Insp. Chakanza. The police have urged church administrators and the public to remain vigilant and enhance security protocols as they pursue the suspects. Celebration Church robbery Harare Internal Link:  Link "armed robbery"  to your crime archive: Recent Surge in Armed Robberies Across Harare . Internal Link:  Link "Safeguard Security"  to your business directory: Top Security Firms in Zimbabwe . External Link:  Visit the official Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Website  for emergency contact numbers and safety tips.

Newly unveiled ZiG banknotes Zimbabwe’s Minister of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion, Mthuli Ncube,  has gazetted a new family of ZiG banknotes following their unveiling during the 2026 Monetary Policy Statement . The new notes were first presented last week by John Mushayavanhu, Governor of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ). According to a statutory instrument published in the Government Gazette, the banknotes will officially enter circulation on 7 April 2026. The notice gives legal effect to the issuance of the new currency series, which includes ZiG10, ZiG20, ZiG50, ZiG100, and ZiG200 denominations. “The Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion hereby, in terms of section 40(3) of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe Act [Chapter 22:15], made the following notice specifying the matters determined by the President in terms of subsection (2) of that section,” the statutory instrument states. The notice further indicates that the new banknotes will replace those currently in circulation, issued under Statutory Instrument 60 of 2024. However, Ncube said the ZiG10 and ZiG20 notes from the new series will co-circulate with the existing ZiG10 and ZiG20 banknotes issued under the 2024 statutory instrument for an indefinite period. The new ZiG banknotes incorporate several enhanced anti-counterfeiting features designed to improve both security and durability. Among the features are intaglio printing, magnetic security threads, and colour-shifting elements that make the notes more difficult to replicate. Design elements also incorporate national symbols and wildlife imagery. The ZiG10 banknote features the RBZ logo, the three balancing rocks as its dominant element, alongside an image of a buffalo printed using intaglio techniques. Other elements include a Zimbabwe Bird security feature, a latent “ZiG” image, and an embedded magnetic thread inscribed “ZIG10”. The reverse side carries an image of the Matopo Hills. The ZiG20 banknote includes the central bank’s logo and an elephant image on the front, while the reverse side displays the Parliament of Zimbabwe  building. The ZiG50 note features a rhinoceros image, while the ZiG100 banknote incorporates a leopard’s head with a colour-shifting feature that changes from gold to green. It also includes a windowed magnetic security thread inscribed “ZIG100”. Meanwhile, the ZiG200 banknote carries an image of a lion printed using intaglio on the front, alongside a colour-shifting gold bars motif. The introduction of the new notes forms part of ongoing efforts by the central bank to strengthen the integrity of Zimbabwe’s gold-backed ZiG currency and enhance public confidence in the monetary system. ZiG banknotes; Zimbabwe new ZiG currency 2026; RBZ; Mthuli Ncube

Sekuru Nyangatayani conducting a spiritual test at his shrine MOUNT DARWIN —   Chief Nyamaropa  of Mount Darwin turned to Glendale‑based traditional healer Sekuru Nyangatayani  after members of the Chipamuriwo clan sought clarity over alleged spiritual torment within the family, local sources said. Clan members visited Sekuru Nyangatayani’s shrine on Monday for a cleansing ritual intended to identify the source of the alleged witchcraft. As part of the process, the healer reportedly administered traditional medicines and instructed everyone present to undergo a cleansing test. One elder was identified during the ritual and later confessed to being the source of the family’s misfortunes. “This is my second time being labelled a wizard. It is not something that I sought, but it is spiritual. Sekuru Nyangatayani, please help me I no longer want these things,” the man pleaded, according to witnesses. Sekuru Nyangatayani told the family the matter was spiritual in nature and urged them not to respond with hostility toward the accused. “It is pathetic that goblins are tormenting the clan and you are using them, but it is not your fault. The family should not attack you because this is spiritual. If you all agree, I will help you destroy the evil spirits,” he said. Chief Nyamaropa’s advisor, who attended the session, thanked the healer for helping the clan reach a verdict and said the public ritual allowed everyone to witness the process and the suspect’s admission. Local observers said the use of traditional rituals to resolve suspected witchcraft cases remains common in rural areas and can help restore social harmony when handled peacefully. At the same time, such accusations can inflame tensions and risk vigilante reprisals if not managed carefully by community leaders and, where appropriate, formal authorities. Community leaders at the session urged restraint and emphasised that spiritual findings should not justify violence . The healer’s public approach and the chief’s involvement were presented as steps to ensure transparency and to avoid extra‑judicial action. Mount Darwin witchcraft confession 2026

Late COPE leader Mosiuoa Lekota Mosiuoa Lekota  died with a painful heart because of the negative state of affairs in the country, said one of his close associates, Dennis Bloem, following the death of the Congress of the People (Cope)  co-founder on Wednesday morning. Bloem, who is also a former member of parliament for the Congress of the People, told The Citizen  that Lekota predicted that the country would be negatively impacted by the ANC’s decision to elect Jacob Zuma as president of the ANC. He was also against the recall of Thabo Mbeki from the Union Buildings by the ANC. The "Prophet" of Polokwane “He said at the Polokwane conference in 2007, the ANC is taking a wrong route; he warned that the ANC is going to destroy the country if it elects Jacob Zuma as the president. Look what is happening now, he was 100% correct, everybody can see that he was a prophet. He was a real, real prophet that people have not seen before. He could read the signs of the time," said Bloem. “He predicted the chaos that is happening today. Look now what is coming out of these commissions; he was 100% correct.” A Struggle Veteran in His Own Right Bloem said even though Lekota chose to leave the ANC in 2008, he is a struggle veteran in his own right. “It is a sad day for the entire country. We have lost a giant, a true revolutionary. Comrade Terror was not just a person that was speaking slogans and did not practice what he preached. He did everything in his power to overthrow the apartheid government ; he put his life on the line for this country.” He described Lekota as humble and very dedicated to public service. “He had true character, and at some point, he was facing the death penalty in the Delmas Treason Trial, but he never looked back, and he never abandoned the struggle until the day of freedom came. Today, his freedom day has come; he is no more. He will always be a hero to me.” Cope Statement and Political Condolences In a statement on Wednesday, Cope confirmed Lekota’s death, appealing for the media to give the family space. “The party will regularly issue media statements to inform the nation about developments… on behalf of the leadership, membership and supporters of Cope, we extend our deepest condolences to the Lekota family.” Political parties across the spectrum issued messages of support: Rise Mzansi: Spokesperson Mabine Seabe urged South Africa to remember Lekota for his principled positions. “Rest in peace, leader! Lala ngoxolo.” Democratic Alliance (DA): Described Lekota as a patriot who stood firmly for constitutionalism, accountability, and democratic values. Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF): Sinawo Thambo acknowledged Lekota’s time as a liberation activist and political prisoner. “May his soul rest in revolutionary peace.” The historic Delmas Treason Trial. Lekota was the first premier of the Free State province after the 1994 elections and held various senior positions in the National Assembly and the Cabinet. Mosiuoa Lekota death

Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe JOHANNESBURG —   The bail application for Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe , the youngest son of the late former Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe , and his co‑accused Tobias Mugabe Matonhodze has been postponed to Thursday at Alexandra Magistrates’ Court  in Johannesburg, court officials said. The delay was granted to allow the defence time to review outstanding documents provided by the State before proceedings continue. Both men are expected to formally apply for bail when the matter resumes. The two men, Bellarmine Mugabe (28) and Tobias Matonhodze (33) , face three charges: attempted murder, defeating the ends of justice, and unlawful possession of a firearm. They are accused of shooting a 23‑year‑old gardener in the back at the Mugabe family residence in Hyde Park on 19 February. The victim, who reportedly worked at the Mugabe home, sustained injuries in the alleged attack. Court papers indicate the postponement was necessary so the defence can examine outstanding disclosure from the prosecution. The review is intended to ensure the defence has full access to the State’s evidence before arguing bail. There remains no public clarity on how Bellarmine Mugabe entered South Africa or on his immigration status in the country. Those questions may form part of later proceedings. When the matter returns to Alexandra Magistrates’ Court this morning, the court will hear formal bail applications from both accused and decide whether to grant temporary release pending trial. If bail is opposed, the court will weigh factors such as the seriousness of the charges, the strength of the State’s case, flight risk, and any risk to witnesses or the public. Bellarmine Mugabe bail postponed 2026

MASVINGO —  Armed robbers struck a house in the leafy suburb of ZIMRE Park in Masvingo in the early hours of Saturday, 28 February, tying up three occupants and making off with cash and property valued at US$6,667, police and security sources said. Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP)  spokesperson Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident to The Midweek Watch  and said he was awaiting full details from provincial officers. “I can confirm that there was an armed robbery that happened today at around 2 am in ZIMRE Park in Masvingo, but I am waiting for details from the province,” he said. Police and witnesses say five masked men forced entry into a house belonging to 63‑year‑old Rudo Zvingambi Shabha, using crowbars to break in. The gang tied up Shabha’s hands with tyre levers and demanded cash. She handed over US$1,800, the amount she had on hand. The intruders then forced Shabha to show them the other occupants. They entered the room of Herbert Rice (20), tied his hands and legs with tyre levers, and took US$3,600. Lynn Chiripamberi (42) lost US$180 and was also restrained. The robbers removed the victims’ SIM cards and dumped them outside, leaving mobile phones on a coffee table in the dining room, apparently to prevent immediate calls for help. After fleeing the first house, the suspects crossed the road to the home of pharmacist Simbarashe Chamboko (39) and Wensley Chamboko. The gang fired several shots and forced open the front door with crowbars. The couple initially handed over US$87 and R100, but the robbers demanded more and took a bag of keys to the pharmacy in town. They also stole a Samsung Note valued at US$400 and a laptop worth US$600 before fleeing. Absolute Security’s  reaction squad was alerted by Wensley Chamboko and arrived at the scene shortly after the robbers had left. A security officer said the team reached the pharmacy and the houses within minutes and secured the premises, but missed intercepting the suspects by only a few minutes. “We arrived at the scene soon after the robbers had just left, and managed to secure the pharmacy after we heard that they had taken away the keys,” the officer told The Midweek Watch. “We also proceeded to the other house, which was also robbed and found the occupants who had their hands and legs tied while their phones were on the coffee table. Fortunately, no lives were lost.” Police reportedly arrived about 30 minutes after the suspects fled. Investigations are ongoing, and officers are following leads, processing the scenes, and appealing to the public for information. Authorities urged anyone with information about the incident or the whereabouts of the suspects to contact Masvingo provincial police or the nearest police station. Residents were reminded to report suspicious activity promptly and to keep emergency contacts and security arrangements up to date. ZIMRE Park armed robbery Masvingo 2026

Harare International School campus in Harare All schools in Zimbabwe will be required to adopt the Heritage-Based Curriculum (HBC) as their primary syllabus starting in 2027, Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerayi Moyo has announced. Speaking in the Senate last week, Torerayi Moyo said the move is aimed at aligning the country’s education system with national development goals and strengthening the teaching of Zimbabwe’s history, culture, and indigenous languages. The Heritage-Based Curriculum was introduced to produce learners who are not only “job seekers” but also “job creators,” grounding education in Zimbabwe’s natural resources, cultural identity, and economic realities. Three Curricula Currently in Use At present, Zimbabwe operates three main curricula across different types of schools. First, government, council, and mission schools predominantly follow the Heritage-Based Curriculum. Second, some private and trust schools offer both the HBC and the Cambridge curriculum, administered by Cambridge Assessment International Education . These schools often combine local and international examination pathways. Third, a limited number of international schools, including Harare International School , follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) , a globally recognised programme headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. The IB is commonly used by expatriate and diplomatic families. “As of now, we have three curricula,” Minister Moyo told senators. “The Heritage-Based Curriculum is taught in Government schools, council schools and church schools. Other private schools also offer the Heritage-Based Curriculum. We also have what we call the Association of Trust Schools and independent colleges that offer Cambridge. Harare International School uses the International Baccalaureate.” New Legal Framework According to Minister Moyo, Cabinet has already considered the proposed legal changes. The forthcoming Bill will make it compulsory for all schools to teach the Heritage-Based Curriculum as the foundational syllabus. “If we are to look at this law, the Bill was presented to Cabinet, and we said that all the schools in the country are supposed to teach the Heritage-Based Curriculum,” he said. Under the new framework, schools that wish to continue offering Cambridge examinations will be required to submit a formal application to the Secretary for Primary and Secondary Education. The application must outline how the school intends to implement Cambridge alongside the mandatory national syllabus. This effectively means that international curricula will no longer operate as standalone alternatives but as supplementary programmes subject to state approval. Policy Rationale The policy shift follows concerns that some schools have been placing limited emphasis on Zimbabwe’s liberation history, national identity, and indigenous languages. Authorities argue that a unified curriculum framework will strengthen national cohesion while still allowing room for international competitiveness. The Heritage-Based Curriculum emphasises practical skills, innovation, and entrepreneurship, in line with the government’s broader economic strategy. Officials say it seeks to connect classroom learning with agriculture, mining, tourism, and other local economic sectors. While the announcement signals a significant restructuring of Zimbabwe’s education landscape, questions remain about how implementation will affect private and international schools, as well as examination pathways for students seeking global university placements. More details are expected once the Bill is formally tabled and debated in Parliament. Heritage-Based Curriculum Zimbabwe