Accident scene BULAWAYO —  A motorist was killed early on Saturday morning after a truck transporting thousands of live chickens collided with his Toyota Passo at a busy intersection in Northend, police and emergency services said. The crash occurred at about 5:40 AM at the junction of Robert Mugabe Way and Heathfield Road. Witnesses described a severe impact that left the smaller vehicle extensively damaged. The driver of the Toyota Passo was pronounced dead at the scene. Police and members of the Bulawayo Fire and Ambulance Services  attended the scene to manage the wreckage, clear the road, and assist with traffic control. The truck was carrying an estimated 4,000 live chickens, which complicated recovery and clean‑up operations. Authorities said it was not immediately clear whether any other people were injured. The identity of the deceased has not been released pending notification of next of kin. Investigation and traffic implications Collision site: Robert Mugabe Way and Heathfield Road, Northend, Bulawayo. Estimated cargo: About 4,000 live chickens on the truck. Immediate actions: Police are investigating the cause of the crash and will examine vehicle condition, driver statements, and any available witness accounts or CCTV footage. Traffic impact: The intersection was temporarily disrupted while emergency teams cleared the scene. Police urged anyone who witnessed the collision or who has dashcam footage to come forward to assist investigations. Safety note Large cargo loads, especially live animals, can present additional hazards in road accidents, including debris, animal escape, and extended clean‑up times. Road users are reminded to exercise caution at busy intersections and to report dangerous driving or overloaded vehicles to traffic authorities. Bulawayo truck chickens collision 2026

Professor Lovemore Madhuku The Zimbabwe Republic Police  (ZRP) has issued a statement distancing itself from an alleged attack on Professor Lovemore Madhuku  and members of his team. In a press release signed by Commissioner Paul Nyathi , police said they were not involved in the reported incident. “The Zimbabwe Republic Police has noted reports of an alleged attack on Professor Lovemore Madhuku and members of his team. For the record, the police were not involved in the alleged incident,” the statement read. Meeting Not Sanctioned According to the ZRP, Professor Madhuku and his team had notified the relevant regulating authority of their intention to hold a meeting. However, upon reviewing the notification, the authority reportedly identified irregularities and engaged the convener of the National Constitutional Assembly  (NCA) . The convener was subsequently advised that the meeting had not been sanctioned. Police said that as a result, no officers were deployed to oversee or monitor the meeting. Police Seek Clarity Commissioner Nyathi said the police are keen to establish what transpired. “The Zimbabwe Republic Police is keen to know what actually transpired on the alleged attack on Professor Lovemore Madhuku and his team,” he said. The development comes amid heightened public interest over the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident, with authorities indicating they are seeking further clarity. ZRP statement on Lovemore Madhuku attack

Bulawayo municipal water meter Bulawayo admits nearly seven in 10 water bills in 2025 were estimated, prompting residents to demand an investigation into high charges despite prolonged water shedding. The City of Bulawayo’s latest council report reveals that 69.4 percent of water bills issued between January and December 2025 were based on estimated consumption rather than actual meter readings. Only thirty‑one percent of consumers received bills reflecting recorded usage, the report says, with a total of 1.1 million estimated bills issued during the year. April and May were the worst months for estimated billing, with eighty‑five percent of accounts billed on projections; even in January, the most accurate month, forty‑seven percent of bills were estimates. For most months the estimated billing rate remained above sixty percent. Council data show that meter‑reading visits were limited. Of the 138,388 meters recorded citywide in December 2025, seventy‑four percent, 102,406 meters, were estimated, while twenty‑six percent, 35,982 meters, were physically visited for readings. The persistent reliance on estimates underlines systemic challenges in metering, staffing, and operational capacity, the report suggests. Financial figures in the report add to residents’ concerns. The council invoiced a total of ZiG3 billion during 2025 but collected ZiG1.9 billion, representing an average collection efficiency of sixty‑five percent. December billing amounted to ZWG264 million, equivalent to about US$10.1 million, while November posted the highest monthly collection rate at seventy‑three percent. The report notes that receipts for January 2026 will be measured against December billing in the next monthly statement. Throughout 2025, the amount received was less than the amount billed. Council officials acknowledged the shortfall and said additional equipment, materials, and staff are required to improve meter reading and collection. “Additional equipment, material, and human resources are required to improve collection to current billing plus a portion of arrears to reduce the amount owed by debtors and increase cash availability for service delivery,” the report reads. Residents and civic groups have reacted angrily. The Bulawayo United Residents Association , led by chairperson Winos Dube , has called for an independent investigation into the widespread use of estimated bills. Dube said residents have long complained about soaring charges while taps remained dry during prolonged water shedding, and that the report confirms their fears. Consumers are now demanding transparency on how estimates are calculated, timelines for meter‑reading improvements, and mechanisms to dispute or adjust bills. The council faces pressure to publish a clear action plan, accelerate meter visits, and restore public confidence by ensuring that billing reflects actual water consumption. Community leaders have urged the council to set up a dedicated complaints hotline and to publish monthly meter‑reading schedules so residents can verify visits. Consumer rights groups want retrospective audits and adjustments where estimates appear inflated, and they propose a moratorium on disconnections while disputes are resolved. Analysts say improving digital meter management and investing in field teams will be essential to reduce reliance on estimates and rebuild trust with ratepayers. Bulawayo estimated water bills 2025

Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, John Mushayavanhu HARARE —   The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ)  has set a June 2026 deadline for mobile network operators to cleanse their customer databases of unverified accounts and tightened rules governing mobile‑issued nano‑loans, Governor John Mushayavanhu  announced. Under the new directives, all mobile money accounts must be verified with legitimate identity documents by the end of June. Any accounts that remain unverified are to be removed from operators’ systems, and the RBZ will carry out audits at the end of the month to ensure compliance. The central bank said the measures are aimed at curbing money‑laundering risks and preventing the misuse of anonymous accounts for illicit financial activity. Nano‑loan underwriting and balance‑sheet rules The RBZ has also mandated that all nano‑loans issued by mobile operators must be underwritten by commercial banks  and recorded on those banks’ balance sheets. Governor Mushayavanhu criticised the practice of mobile operators issuing instant microloans outside the regulated banking system, saying it creates unbacked money and circumvents financial regulations. By requiring bank underwriting and on‑balance‑sheet recognition, the RBZ intends to bring mobile credit products under existing prudential and consumer‑protection frameworks and to ensure proper risk management and oversight. Zero‑fee policy extended to mobile operators Mushayavanhu extended the banking sector’s zero‑fee policy for small‑value transactions to mobile money providers. The RBZ warned that any charges on transactions under US$5 could lead to the revocation of payment service licences for offending operators. The move is designed to protect low‑value users from transaction costs and to harmonise pricing across formal payment channels. Why the measures matter Anti‑money‑laundering: Removing anonymous or unverified accounts reduces opportunities for illicit flows and strengthens the traceability of transactions. Regulatory parity: Requiring bank underwriting for nano‑loans aligns mobile credit with regulated lending practices and places consumer protection and capital‑adequacy safeguards on these products. Financial inclusion and cost protection: Extending the zero‑fee rule for small transactions protects low‑value users and supports the RBZ’s broader financial‑inclusion objectives while preventing predatory pricing. Market integrity: Audits and the threat of licence revocation create strong incentives for operators to comply quickly and transparently. Practical implications and next steps For mobile operators: They must verify customer identities using acceptable ID documents, remove unverified accounts by the June deadline, and put in place formal underwriting arrangements with commercial banks for any nano‑loan products. Operators should prepare for RBZ audits and review fee schedules to ensure no charges apply to transactions under US$5. For commercial banks: Banks that underwrite mobile nano‑loans will need to reflect these exposures on their balance sheets, apply appropriate credit assessment and provisioning, and ensure compliance with prudential rules. For consumers: Users should verify their mobile money accounts promptly to avoid service disruption. Consumers who use nano‑loan products should expect clearer terms, stronger consumer protections, and potentially different application or repayment processes once loans are bank‑underwritten. For regulators and enforcement: The RBZ will conduct end‑June audits and has signalled readiness to enforce penalties, including licence revocation, for non‑compliance. Quick facts Deadline for account verification: June 2026. Nano‑loan rule: All mobile‑issued nano‑loans must be underwritten by commercial banks and shown on bank balance sheets. Zero‑fee extension: No charges allowed on transactions under US$5 for mobile operators; breaches may lead to licence revocation. Enforcement: RBZ audits scheduled for the end of June; measures aimed at preventing money‑laundering and unbacked money creation. RBZ mobile account verification June 2026

The aftermath of an Iranian missile strike on the Israeli town of Beit Shemesh. The Middle East has plunged into a state of total war. Following a series of unprecedented strikes, the regional conflict has reached a tipping point with the reported death of Iran’s highest authority and a massive retaliatory barrage targeting Western assets across the Persian Gulf. The Fall of Tehran’s Leadership In what is being described as the most significant decapitation strike in modern history, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM)  and Israeli intelligence have confirmed that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei , along with several top security officials, have been killed. The deaths occurred during the ongoing joint aerial campaign targeting high-value command centers in Tehran. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)  has acknowledged the loss but immediately pledged a "crushing revenge" that would "reshape the map of the Middle East." U.S. and Israeli Casualties Mount The aftermath of an Iranian missile strike on the Israeli town of Beit Shemesh. The cost of the escalation is being felt acutely in Washington and Tel Aviv. Kuwait Base Attack: CENTCOM reports that three U.S. soldiers have been killed in action and five others seriously wounded following an Iranian drone and missile strike on a military installation in Kuwait. Beit Shemesh Strike: At least nine civilians were killed in the Israeli town of Beit Shemesh after a heavy Iranian missile battery bypassed air defense systems. The IRGC claims to have launched coordinated attacks on 27 different bases hosting U.S. troops throughout the region, as well as military facilities in the heart of Tel Aviv. Explosions continue to be reported in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), marking a dangerous expansion of the combat zone into the world’s most critical commercial hubs. In a swift diplomatic rupture, the United Arab Emirates has officially closed its embassy in Tehran and recalled its ambassador. The move follows a barrage of Iranian strikes that targeted UAE soil, effectively ending years of cautious de-escalation between Abu Dhabi and Tehran. The aftermath of an Iranian missile strike on the Israeli town of Beit Shemesh. For global markets, the closure of embassies and the targeting of bases in Qatar and the UAE suggest that the conflict is no longer a localized exchange. With the death of Khamenei, the institutional "red lines" have vanished. Analysts warn of a prolonged period of instability that will likely see oil prices surge past historic peaks and a complete realignment of Middle Eastern alliances. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei killed 2026

NetOne mobile network shop Percy Nhara Zimbabwe’s second-largest mobile network operator, NetOne, has revised its off-peak data hours and introduced a new Tourist SIM package aimed at improving connectivity for visitors entering the country. Off-peak window adjusted The state-owned operator has shifted its off-peak data window to run from 10 pm to 5 am, replacing the previous 1 am to 7 am schedule. The adjustment comes a month after the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ) formally raised concerns following consumer complaints about the structure, pricing, and marketing of off-peak data bundles bundled into standard monthly packages. In a letter dated 21 January 2026, CCZ Chief Executive Officer Rosemary Mpofu  said the Council was troubled that subscribers were paying full price for data packages where a significant portion could only be accessed during off-peak hours, typically when many users are asleep or unable to utilise the service effectively. Mpofu noted that substantial volumes of paid-for data were expiring unused at the end of each billing cycle. “Customer-first adjustment” In a statement issued this week, NetOne said the revised off-peak period reflects changing usage patterns. “This customer-first adjustment allows more Zimbabweans to take advantage of affordable internet for overnight downloads, updates and entertainment,” the company said. The new 10 pm–5 am window is expected to benefit students, content creators, and households that schedule heavy data usage at night, particularly as demand for streaming, software updates, and other data-intensive services continues to grow. NetOne said the changes form part of ongoing refinements to its data products as it seeks to improve service delivery and respond to customer feedback. Tourist SIM introduced Alongside the off-peak adjustments, NetOne has introduced a Tourist SIM card targeted at short-term visitors. The SIM cards are being distributed free of charge at major ports of entry, including airports, and offer flexible bundles tailored to travellers’ needs. According to the operator, the Tourist SIM remains active for up to 90 days, ensuring that visitors can access affordable connectivity immediately upon arrival in Zimbabwe. The move positions NetOne to tap into tourism traffic while also responding to domestic consumer concerns over data pricing and accessibility. NetOne off-peak data hours

By Percy Nhara Harare  – Eight buyers from the United Kingdom and European Union are set to visit 11 Zimbabwean farm and food businesses from 2–7 March 2026 as part of a trade mission aimed at boosting horticulture exports. The visit is organised under the UK Trade Partnerships Programme (UKTP) , funded by the UK government and implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC) . The buyers will meet producers in Harare, Mashonaland Central, Mashonaland West, Mashonaland East, Manicaland, and Midlands provinces. Boosting trade and economic growth The initiative is part of efforts to strengthen trade links between Zimbabwe and the UK, increase foreign currency earnings, and create jobs in the agriculture sector. By connecting Zimbabwean horticulture businesses to UK and EU markets, the programme supports Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy II (NDS II) for 2026–2030, which prioritises economic growth, export diversification, and resilience. Zimbabwean goods can enter the UK tariff-free under the Economic Partnership Agreement between Eastern and Southern African countries and the United Kingdom (ESA-UK EPA), giving local exporters a competitive advantage. Building on Fruit Logistica momentum The trade mission follows Zimbabwe’s participation at Fruit Logistica in Germany earlier this year, where eight exporters showcased their produce with support from UKTP, ZimTrade, and the Horticultural Development Council (HDC). In preparation, participating businesses received coaching on improving product presentation and marketing to meet international standards. Products on showcase The exporters will present a range of horticulture products, including: Peas and mangetout (snow peas) Rock melons (cantaloupe) Victoria pineapples Chillies If successful, the mission could lead to supply agreements with buyers in some of the world’s most competitive fresh produce markets. Farm visits and reception The programme will begin with visits to farms in Harare, followed by an official welcome reception at the British Embassy, where buyers will meet additional farmers from across Zimbabwe. The delegation will then travel to Mutorashanga, Mvurwi, Chegutu, Shurugwi, and Mutare to meet participating agribusinesses. Participating agribusinesses The 11 businesses include: Kacholo Kuminda Takura Farm Avomac Farm Forrester Estate Navaco Agrilikimo Farmers Procitru Pvt Ltd Edenchase Pvt Ltd Surrey Group / Tanaka Dodhill Interviews with buyers will be available in Harare on 2 or 7 March. Interviews with farmers can be arranged separately upon request. The mission reflects growing efforts to integrate Zimbabwean small and medium-sized enterprises into global value chains while strengthening agricultural exports. Zimbabwe horticulture trade mission

Scott Sakupwanya at the fundraising function By Percy Nhara HARARE —   Reigning Premier Soccer League champions Scottland FC  have confirmed a US$10 million sponsorship package to back their 2026 title defence and maiden CAF Champions League campaign, the club announced at a high‑profile kit unveiling at Harare Sports Club on Friday. The multi‑partner deal includes a US$1.5 million commitment from Ecobank specifically for the club’s continental campaign, with other corporate backers such as IMC Communications , Sakunda Holdings , Swan Tobacco, and Steelmate contributing to the overall package. Club officials said the funding will support player recruitment, logistics, infrastructure, and match preparations. Investment and strategic signings Club chairperson Everson Chatambudza  described the sponsorship as a transformational boost for a side that won promotion and the league title in the same season. “Our vision is clear: retain the Premier Soccer League title and compete strongly in the CAF Champions League,” Chatambudza said. Key football moves announced at the event: Head coach: Norman Mapeza appointed to lead the technical team. Team manager: Former Warriors captain Peter Ndlovu joins the backroom staff. New signings: Emmanuel Ziocha, Abubakar Moffat, and Isaskar Gurirab added to strengthen squad depth. The club also paraded 27 brand‑new vehicles allocated for players, signalling the scale of investment behind the project. High-profile launch and fundraising highlights The kit unveiling drew notable guests, including American hip‑hop artist Rick Ross, Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Kazembe Kazembe, legislator Chamu Chiwanza, and Nqobile Magwizi, President of the Zimbabwe Football Association. In a headline moment, a Scottland jersey signed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa was auctioned for US$1 million and purchased by Sakunda Holdings, with proceeds directed to the club’s 2026 campaign. Government and sector reaction Government representatives welcomed the private investment in local football. Deputy Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Emily Jesaya praised Scottland for contributing to the growth of domestic football and aligning with national development objectives. The involvement of major corporate sponsors and high‑profile figures underscores growing commercial interest in Zimbabwean club football and the potential for greater professionalism within clubs. What this means for Zimbabwean football Professionalisation: Large sponsorships can improve training, player welfare, and club operations, raising standards across the league. Continental readiness: Dedicated funding for the CAF Champions League should help Scottland meet the travel, accommodation, and logistical demands of continental competition. Talent retention and recruitment: Improved contracts and facilities may help retain local talent and attract regional players. Commercial model: The event highlights how clubs can leverage corporate partnerships, celebrity endorsements, and high‑value fundraising to scale quickly. Quick facts Sponsorship value: US$10 million total; Ecobank US$1.5 million for CAF campaign. Venue: Harare Sports Club kit unveiling. Coach: Norman Mapeza. Team manager:  Peter Ndlovu. Notable signings: Emmanuel Ziocha; Abubakar Moffat; Isaskar Gurirab. Auction: Signed jersey sold for US$1 million to Sakunda Holdings. Scottland FC US$10 million sponsorship 2026

Jahprayzah By Percy Nhara Yesterday, February 28, 2026, the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC)  was transformed into a bastion of "Fearless Creativity" as the 24th National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA) honored the country's most outstanding talent. With a record-breaking 1,117 submissions this season, the ceremony marked a historic shift, introducing new categories for Fashion and Digital Arts, and even recognizing an AI-generated production for the first time. The Big Winners: Music and Beyond The music categories saw a clash of giants. Jah Prayzah entered the night with five nominations and solidified his legacy by taking home Outstanding Male Musician, while his track "Ruzhowa"  and album Ndini Mukudzeyi  were central to the evening's conversation. Nisha Ts emerged as a powerful force, winning Outstanding Female Musician following the success of her album The Woman King . Meanwhile, the People's Choice Award—the night's most anticipated public-voted category saw a fierce battle between Winky D, Jah Prayzah, and Freeman HKD, with Winky D ultimately claiming the trophy to a thunderous standing ovation. Key Category Winners: Outstanding Song:  "Ruzhowa"  – Jah Prayzah Outstanding Album:  The Notebook  – Freeman HKD Outstanding Music Video:  "Fake Love"  – Winky D (Directed by Jusa Dementor ) Outstanding Breakthrough Musician:  Junior Spragga Outstanding First Published Work:  Hanzi Huchi Hwenduri  – Ushehwedu Kufakurinani Performers Who Stole the Show The stage was a masterclass in Zimbabwean diversity. Sylent Nqo  opened the night with a blistering guitar solo that transitioned into a collaborative medley featuring Janet Manyowa , setting a spiritual and triumphant tone. The most talked-about performance of the evening was a genre-bending "Afro-electro" set by MVM & Friends , who performed their hit "Shake That,"  blending traditional sounds with futuristic digital visuals. Freeman HKD  also took to the stage, performing tracks from his award-winning album The Notebook , proving why he remains the "HKD Boss." Organisers and Artists Speak Out Barbara Gotore, Director of Arts Promotion and Development at NACZ, emphasized the night's theme: "NAMA is a beacon. This 24th edition has proven that our artists are no longer afraid to innovate. By including Digital Arts and AI, we are telling the world that Zimbabwe’s creative sector is ready for the future." Organizers Scarlet Studios and Events Evolution were praised for the world-class production. Representative Gift Tenga noted, "We aimed for Oscar-level prestige, and the 'Fearless' fashion on the red carpet showed that our guests took that challenge to heart." Winky D, upon accepting his award, kept his comments brief but poignant, thanking the fans for "remaining the compass" of his career, while Nisha Ts dedicated her win to young women in the industry, urging them to lead their "own kingdoms." NAMA 2026 Winners List

By Anna Miti HARARE — The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP)  has urged members of the public to report reckless or errant drivers so police can take swift action, praising a Harare motorist whose complaint led to the arrest of a kombi driver for alleged traffic offences. In a statement, the ZRP shared the motorist’s account of the incident at the Borrowdale Village  traffic lights and encouraged other road users to act as “the eyes” of law enforcement by reporting dangerous driving even when it requires appearing in court as a witness. What happened at Borrowdale A motorist reported that a kombi driver in the right‑turn lane cut into the complainant’s lane and ran a red light. The motorist followed the kombi, photographed the vehicle, and reported it to Avondale Traffic Police. The kombi driver was arrested the same afternoon, and the vehicle was held at the police station pending court action. The motorist agreed to appear in court as a witness when requested. The ZRP said the case illustrates how citizen reports can lead to enforcement and help deter dangerous driving that endangers other road users. Police appeal and practical guidance The ZRP’s message to the public included these points: Report dangerous drivers: Citizens who witness reckless driving should report incidents to local traffic police or the nearest station. Be prepared to assist: Complainants may be asked to make formal statements and to appear in court as witnesses. Use evidence where possible: Photographs, videos, and vehicle registration details strengthen complaints and help investigators. Prioritise safety: Do not place yourself at risk when gathering evidence; record details from a safe distance. The police said regular reporting by road users can reduce traffic offences and improve road safety across Harare and other urban centres. Why community reporting matters Deterrence: Visible enforcement and the prospect of losing business or facing prosecution can discourage repeat offenders. Evidence gathering: Timely civilian reports often provide the leads police need to locate vehicles and identify drivers. Shared responsibility: Road safety improves when motorists, passengers, and pedestrians cooperate with traffic authorities. Quick facts Location: Borrowdale Village traffic lights, Harare. Enforcement action: Kombi driver arrested by Avondale Traffic Police after a motorist’s report. Complainant role: Motorist photographed the vehicle, filed a report, and agreed to appear in court. Police advice: Report reckless driving; provide evidence; prioritise personal safety. ZRP urges public report reckless drivers 2026

Elephant crossing a rural road near Victoria Falls  — wildlife corridor close to residential areas By Anna Miti The incidents occurred along Kazungula Road and the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road in Chinotimba, within days of each other. The attacks have intensified fears in neighbourhoods that border wildlife corridors, where elephants increasingly move through residential areas. What residents say Residents described growing alarm as elephants appear more frequently on roads and near homes, often at night. Nkosana Ndebele said people now live in fear and warned that children and drivers are at risk. “You can be driving home at night, and suddenly, there are elephants in the road. Our children cannot even walk freely. Now two people are dead in just one week. It’s too much,” he said. In Garikai, a high‑density suburb, residents reported crop destruction and damaged fences. One resident said elephants “wreak havoc,” destroying maize and forcing families to flee when animals pass through. Similar concerns were raised in Mkhosana’s Omfelandawonye area, where encounters are becoming more common. Kelvin Moyo, chairperson of the Victoria Falls Combined Residents Association, extended condolences to the bereaved families and urged stronger protection measures and support for affected households. He also advised residents to avoid walking at night and asked tourism companies to provide transport for staff finishing late shifts. Political response and legal framework The area’s Member of Parliament, Vusumuzi Moyo , raised the incidents in Parliament, framing the problem as one that touches on development and human dignity as well as wildlife management. He urged swift implementation of the Parks and Wildlife Act  in communities bordering protected areas and called for coordinated action to protect residents. Immediate community needs and recommended actions Residents and local leaders want a mix of short‑term and longer‑term measures to reduce human‑wildlife conflict and improve safety: Rapid response patrols and increased presence of wildlife rangers along known corridors and roads at high‑risk times. Temporary road signage and speed restrictions in areas with frequent elephant movements, especially at night. Community awareness campaigns on safe behaviour near wildlife, including avoiding walking at night and reporting sightings promptly. Support for affected families, including counselling, financial assistance, and help with funeral arrangements. Mitigation measures such as reinforced fencing, crop protection techniques, and community early‑warning systems were feasible. Engagement with tourism operators to provide safe transport for late‑shift staff and to coordinate reporting of wildlife movements. Broader context and challenges Human settlements expanding into wildlife corridors, seasonal changes in forage and water availability, and increasing elephant populations in some areas can all raise the frequency of encounters. Balancing wildlife conservation with community safety requires coordinated action by Parks and Wildlife authorities, local government, traditional leaders, conservation NGOs, and communities. Experts typically recommend integrated approaches that combine deterrents, land‑use planning, compensation or support schemes for losses, and community participation in monitoring and response. Implementation can be resource-intensive and requires clear roles, funding, and timely action. Victoria Falls elephant attacks 2026

illustrative image of imported goods under investigation By Anna Miti HARARE —   The Zimbabwe Anti‑Corruption Commission (ZACC)  has arrested Prosper Isaka, director of Profutunny Investments (Pvt) Ltd, over allegations that he smuggled grocery consignments into Zimbabwe by misrepresenting them as agricultural equipment at Plumtree Border Post, ZACC said. According to the commission, the alleged scheme took place between March and June 2024, when Isaka imported groceries from Boss Foods (Pvt) Ltd  but declared the consignments as agricultural equipment to avoid paying import duty. ZACC says the misrepresentation resulted in a loss of ZAR 2,700,876.45 in import duties to the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA). Alleged modus operandi and implicated officials ZACC’s statement names several clearing agents and revenue officers already facing trial in connection with the matter: Clearing agents: Nyasha Moyo; Blessing Kodzawako. Revenue officers: Luckson Chikwara; James Dzimirwa; Tinotenda Allen Mawoyo. The commission alleges the scheme involved falsified or misleading documentation presented at Plumtree Border Post, enabling grocery consignments to be cleared under a lower‑duty classification reserved for agricultural equipment. Isaka’s arrest follows earlier prosecutions of other individuals linked to the alleged scheme. The matter is now before the courts as ZACC continues investigations and prepares files for prosecution. Authorities may pursue additional inquiries to determine the full extent of the alleged network, recover lost duties, and identify any further officials or intermediaries involved. ZACC typically works with ZIMRA and the Attorney‑General’s Office when building corruption and customs‑fraud cases; outcomes can include criminal charges, asset forfeiture, and administrative sanctions for implicated public servants. ZACC framed the arrest as part of ongoing efforts to protect public revenue and deter customs fraud. Smuggling and misclassification of imports can significantly reduce government revenue and distort fair competition for legitimate importers and local suppliers. Prosper Isaka arrested ZACC Plumtree smuggling 2026