ZimParks officers on site By Anna Miti EPPING FOREST —  Scores of villagers descended on a pond outside ZANU‑PF Politburo member Obert Mpofu’s  rural homestead on Tuesday after two hippos were shot dead and hauled from the water, local officials said. The animals were first sighted on Monday morning at Mpofu’s Village 4 homestead after footprints were noticed near a pond just metres from the main house. Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks)  officers, together with conservation staff from the Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage and Research Centre , attended the scene and initially discussed options to extract and relocate the hippos. Those plans were abandoned on safety grounds, and the animals were later shot. Scene at the pond and community response Once the two hippos were removed from the pond, hundreds of villagers set about skinning the carcasses and dividing the meat. For many families, the haul represented a rare windfall and a chance to secure relish that could last for weeks. Observers noted the scale of the animals meant there was a substantial quantity of meat to distribute. Adult male hippos can weigh between 1,500 and 3,200 kg, while females typically weigh 1,300 to 1,800 kg, underscoring why the animals provided so much meat. Conservation and legal questions The involvement of ZimParks and Chipangali indicates authorities were aware of the animals’ presence and initially sought a non‑lethal resolution. The decision to shoot the hippos and the subsequent mass harvesting by villagers raises conservation, public‑safety, and legal issues, including: Protected species status and permits: Hippos are protected under national wildlife laws; any lethal removal normally requires clear justification and appropriate permits. Human safety: Authorities cited safety concerns as the reason for abandoning relocation plans. Hippos are highly dangerous when threatened and can pose immediate risks to nearby residents. Public health and food safety: Improper handling and butchery of wild animals can create health risks; wildlife and health officials typically advise controlled processing and inspection. Community needs and resource pressures: In rural areas facing food insecurity, wild meat can be seen as an emergency resource, complicating enforcement of conservation rules. At the time of reporting, ZimParks had not released a detailed statement explaining the decision to shoot the animals or outlining any follow‑up enforcement action. Local context Epping Forest in Matabeleland North Province is a rural area where human‑wildlife interactions are not uncommon. Residents and local leaders often face difficult trade‑offs between protecting livelihoods and conserving wildlife. The incident is likely to prompt calls for clearer protocols on how to manage large wildlife that stray into populated homesteads, and for improved community engagement on wildlife safety and compensation mechanisms. hippos shot Epping Forest Mpofu homestead

Salt types By Dr. P Sibiya It’s been a week, and here we are already entering another brand new month of March. The entrance has not been a grand one due to some depressing global conflicts, which we all pray will be resolved sooner rather than later. Here’s hoping we enjoyed and applied knowledge about onions. This week, we are in the world of sodium chloride, or commonly salt . Some revelations will leave you amazed, and some will make you feel proud. I have seen many men and women carrying salt “in case of emergency”. Most African men have a habit of adding salt to their food before tasting. However weird your salt habit may be, let it remain your little secret whilst we delve deeper into today’s topic. Coarse salt is a ritual when it comes to spiritual practices. The Biblical and Historical Significance of Salt In the Bible, salt is mentioned in 35 scriptures. Biblically, salt symbolizes purity, preservation, and covenant. In ancient times, infants were rubbed with salt for cleansing and hygiene, symbolic of spiritual purity. Elisha used salt to purify the water in Jericho, a symbolic act of removing impurity. Jesus described believers as "the salt of the earth," implying they hold back moral decay in the world. Salt is said to have been discovered more than 12,000 years ago . It used to be a precious and highly priced commodity that was paid as a salary (salarium) to soldiers during the Roman Empire. Hence the word “salary”. Before the advent of refrigeration, salt was the sole food preservation method that kept bacteria from affecting food. In ancient Egypt, salt was used during mummification. Salt brings joy, and its absence causes sorrow. Food without salt would rather not be eaten! No wonder the cautious travel with their salt just in case. Most dining room tables are adorned with salt and pepper. Grocery shopping is never complete if salt is missing. The Essential Health Benefits of Moderate Salt Consumption Mostly, we hear the bad side rather than the goodness of salt. Below are some uses of salt that are helpful to our health. Salt (sodium chloride) is essential for human health, playing a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, muscle contraction, and hydration. It regulates blood pressure, aids in nutrient absorption in the small intestine, and supports healthy digestion by facilitating gastric acid secretion. Key health benefits of moderate salt consumption include: Hydration Regulation: Sodium helps cells retain water, preventing dehydration and balancing fluid levels inside and outside cells. Electrolyte Balance: Salt provides crucial electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium) that prevent muscle cramping and ensure proper nerve transmission. Heart & Vascular Function: It supports a healthy cardiovascular system by allowing the heart to pump properly and maintaining blood volume. Brain Function: Sodium is necessary for transmitting nerve impulses, supporting cognitive function. Improved Sleep: Proper electrolyte balance from adequate salt intake can promote better sleep quality. Nutrient Absorption: Salt is necessary for the absorption of key nutrients, such as glucose and amino acids. Iodine Source: Iodized salt provides iodine, which is critical for brain development and thyroid function. How Many Types of Salts Are There? Table Salt: Highly refined with small, even crystals, typically containing anti-caking agents and iodine. Kosher Salt: Features large, light, coarse flakes that are easy to pinch for seasoning. It lacks additives and is preferred by chefs. Sea Salt: Harvested from evaporated seawater, it has a varied texture and flavor profile depending on the region. Himalayan Pink Salt: Mined from ancient seabeds in Pakistan, it contains trace minerals that give it a pinkish color and subtle, complex flavor. Fleur de Sel: A premium "finishing" salt hand-harvested from the top layer of sea salt ponds, with delicate, moisture-rich crystals. Celtic Grey Salt (Sel Gris): A moist, grey-colored sea salt with a high mineral content, often used in cooking seafood or roasted vegetables. Flake Salt: Thin, flat, and delicate crystals with a crunchy texture, ideal for finishing salads or desserts. Black Salt (Kala Namak): A pungent Indian volcanic rock salt, dark reddish-brown, often used in savory dishes for its sulfuric, egg-like taste. Smoked Salt: Salt smoked over wood (e.g., hickory) to add a deep, savory, smoky flavor to foods. Important Considerations and Risks Salt must be taken in moderation. Too much salt affects the kidneys' function as the body’s filter, flushing out most toxins. It also contributes to high blood pressure if consumed without limits. Salt may result in strokes. If our kidneys can no longer function properly, we suffer from water retention. Salt also contributes to stomach issues, bloating, and kidney dysfunction. WHO Recommendation: Adults should consume less than 5 grams of salt (about one teaspoon) per day. Disclaimer This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Dr. Precious Sibiya is a certified Wellness Practitioner,  stroke survivor, and advocate for natural healing and lifestyle. Contact her for more Wellness insights on  Email: precioussibiya2014@gmail.com Phone: +263775369467 Health benefits of sodium chloride

Mutare Registry The government has issued nearly 1.8 million electronic passports since the programme began in January 2022, effectively clearing a long-standing backlog and accelerating the digitalisation of passport services. Speaking during a tour of the e-passport centre by Special Advisor to the President Joram Gumbo, Civil Registry Department Registrar General Henry Machiri  said the Harare Passport Centre alone has produced 897 042 e-passports since the rollout began. Nationwide, a total of 1 797 760 e-passports have been issued, reflecting improved production capacity and growing public confidence in the new system. Programme Launch and Rollout The e-passport programme was officially launched by President Emmerson Mnangagwa  on December 14, 2021, with issuance commencing on January 18, 2022. Harare became the first city to process and issue the new travel documents. “To date, 1 797 760 e-passports have been issued countrywide. Harare Passport Centre alone has so far issued a total of 897 042 since the commencement of the programme,” Machiri said. He added that the steady rise in processed applications demonstrates enhanced production capacity and public trust in the upgraded system. Stronger Security and Faster Processing The initiative forms part of broader reforms within the Civil Registry Department, aimed at improving service delivery through technology-driven systems. Authorities say the shift from machine-readable passports to e-passports has significantly strengthened document security. The new travel documents are embedded with advanced biometric and encryption features that meet international standards, reducing the risk of fraud, tampering, or duplication. Dr. Gumbo described the transition as a key milestone in safeguarding national integrity, noting that the previous passport system had vulnerabilities that could be exploited. Processing times have also improved significantly. Applications now take approximately seven working days, a sharp drop from waiting periods that previously stretched to as long as six months. Officials attribute the faster turnaround to a digital queuing and data capture system introduced under the reforms. Zimbabwe e-passports issued

Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi Eight people have died while 11 others sustained serious injuries in two separate road traffic accidents recorded over the weekend, the Zimbabwe Republic Police  (ZRP) has confirmed. Three Killed in Chiredzi Crash In the first incident, three people were killed after a Nissan NV200 carrying 11 passengers overturned along the Roy–Buffalo Range Road in Chiredzi on Saturday evening. Police said the accident occurred at the 112km peg at around 6:30 pm when the driver attempted to overtake a truck while an oncoming vehicle was approaching. Upon noticing the approaching vehicle, the driver reportedly accelerated in a bid to complete the overtaking manoeuvre but lost control of the car. The vehicle veered off the road to the left, overturned several times, and eventually landed on its wheels. Three passengers died in the crash, while eight others, including the driver, sustained serious injuries. The bodies were taken to Chiredzi General Hospital  mortuary for postmortem examinations. Five Die in Harare–Chirundu Road Collision In a separate incident just after midnight on Sunday, five people died on the spot following a head-on collision at the 54km peg along the Harare–Chirundu Road. According to police, a Nissan AD Van carrying eight passengers and travelling towards Chinhoyi collided head-on with a Hino truck heading in the opposite direction towards Harare. The truck reportedly had six passengers on board. As a result of the collision, five occupants of the AD Van, including the driver, died instantly, while three others were seriously injured. The bodies of the deceased were taken to Sally Mugabe Central Hospital  mortuary for postmortem, while the injured were referred to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals  for treatment. Police have urged motorists to exercise caution, particularly when overtaking and travelling at night, as investigations into both accidents continue. Zimbabwe weekend road accidents

HARARE —   A warrant of arrest has been issued for local businessman Tendai Jemwa  after he failed to appear in court for judgment in a ZWL$29 million property dispute involving his brother‑in‑law, the court record shows. Regional Magistrate Francis Mapfumo  issued the warrant after Jemwa did not attend proceedings in a case in which he is accused of unlawfully sidelining his business partner, Thomas Masango . Allegations and case background The State, represented by prosecutor Ephraim Zinyandu, says Masango and Jemwa agreed that Masango would hold a 50 percent share in Ten Jem Consultancy Pvt Ltd, a company formed to manage the jointly acquired Spitzkop property. A verbal agreement reportedly governed the partnership. Masango alleges that in 2012 Jemwa secretly obtained the property’s transfer documents from their lawyer without Masango’s consent and transferred the entire property into the company’s name, effectively excluding Masango from ownership. Masango further claims he was unlawfully ousted from the property as far back as 2007, triggering a long‑running legal dispute over his claimed stake. At the heart of the prosecution’s case is the allegation that Jemwa reneged on the verbal partnership agreement and wrongfully transferred full ownership to Ten Jem Consultancy, contrary to the parties’ understanding. Court action The matter was scheduled for judgment when Jemwa failed to attend court, prompting Magistrate Mapfumo to issue the arrest warrant. Authorities say further proceedings will follow once Jemwa is brought before the court. If arrested and produced, Jemwa will face the court for the outstanding judgment and any related contempt or enforcement proceedings. The case may also prompt further inquiries into the transfer process and the conduct of any legal advisers involved in the property transaction. Legal and practical implications Verbal agreements: The dispute highlights risks associated with informal or unwritten partnership arrangements, especially in property transactions. Title transfers: Allegations that transfer documents were obtained and used without a co‑owner’s consent raise potential civil and criminal issues, including fraud and unlawful dispossession. Remedies: If the court finds in Masango’s favour, remedies could include reversal of the transfer, damages, or other equitable relief; enforcement may require police assistance if the accused resists court orders. Tendai Jemwa warrant property dispute 2026

Giraffes By Professor Mufaro Gunduza The giraffe uses its tallness to spot danger from afar. The giraffe is also a browser. It feeds on leafy stuff far from the madding crowds of grazers. The giraffe stays in the forest with other animals, but when day breaks, the sun shines and kisses the forehead of the giraffe before it does to other animals. When the sun sets on other animals, it sets last with the giraffe because of its height. The Giraffe Theory  speaks of height advantage when spotting opportunities and also when spotting danger. It’s always ahead of the pack. The giraffe theory speaks of exclusivity and exceptionality in terms of niche habits. The giraffe is not in the family of grazers; it is in the family of browsers! Strategic Business Insights from the Giraffe 1. Giraffes Stick Their Neck Out They display their strengths, expose their vulnerabilities, and take informed risks to survive and thrive. In business, we should do the same when we are acting alone or as part of a team to demonstrate our own leadership capabilities. 2. Giraffes Stand Tall They take advantage of their natural attributes to establish a commanding presence. Each of us has some sort of advantage in each situation; it is our job to find it and use it. This approach focuses on our positives rather than creating false confidence from others’ weaknesses. 3. Giraffes Use Natural Camouflage They blend in to allow the environment to work for them rather than fighting it. Some of our exteriors may look similar, but as we get closer to each other, recognizing the uniqueness of each of our traits as “spots” is what brings value to workplace diversity. 4. Giraffes Take a Higher View They have the ability to look down from above. Whether it is from a physical, mental, or positional viewpoint, we can take a higher-level look at each situation to gain perspective. Sharing these perspectives with others provides a strategic advantage. 5. Giraffes Leverage Talents and Skills They have special talents and skills that other animals do not have, and acknowledge them for the advantage they provide. Building upon these rather than resting on our laurels contributes to continuous growth and instills confidence in others. 6. Don't Confuse Size with Strength They are tall and large, but recognize their lankiness limits concentrated strength. As we remember from the story of David and Goliath, size may not guarantee might or ability. Be careful not to prejudge others based on individual physical attributes. 7. Relinquishing the Lead Position They realize that even natural leaders need a break. Sharing roles informally helps to build others’ capabilities and allows leaders who have been expending their physical and mental energy to rejuvenate. 8. Running Steady with the Herd They travel as a group to create collective strength when needed. None of us is smarter than all of us. Operating as part of the team provides increased safety to you, and your presence can provide the same to others. 9. Continually Seeking New Resources They realize that as current resources are depleted, moving to more resource-rich environments is a natural and advantageous approach. The only constant thing is change itself! Hope alone is not a strategy; staying in the same place and hoping for change is a passive strategy that can only be overcome by initiating change. 10. Loyalty to Those Who Have Earned It They are not tied to a single herd. As you and your team grow, those who have earned your trust also deserve your loyalty. Reward and recognize those who have always had your back, but untether those who are disloyal and for whom you have lost trust. Conclusion: The Entrepreneur's Perspective In conclusion, the Giraffe Theory of Business  is about height advantage, spotting opportunities as well as danger from afar through foresight and far-sight, and the thirst for innovation and fresh foliage! As an entrepreneur, how do you relate to the giraffe theory? Professor Mufaro Gunduza coaches and mentors Business Intelligence at Mount Carmel Institute (Harare), Indian School of Management (New Mumbai), and UNISA. He is the SADC Investments Advisor to Dr. Farzam Kamalabadi, Founder of Future Trends Group and Special Presidential Envoy on Business and International Relations, Government of Botswana. He has written several books, including Unleashing Blue Sky Thinking, Spotting Business Opportunities, and Big Picture Thinking (Bookboon Publishers, London & Denmark). He has just assumed the Presidency of the Southern African Chamber of Commerce. He can be contacted on WhatsApp: +263774868896 Phone: +263718925350 Email: mgunduza@yahoo.co.uk  Giraffe Theory of Business

Pardon Tapfumaneyi BULAWAYO —  Former independent candidate and UK‑based lawyer Pardon Tapfumaneyi  has publicly urged opposition leader Nelson Chamisa  to join Zanu‑PF, describing the ruling party as a “big tent” capable of accommodating everyone. Tapfumaneyi made the remarks in Bulawayo at an event organised by Zanu‑PF Bulawayo Province to welcome him and 89 returnees under the Dzokai Kumusha / Buyani Ekhaya  reintegration programme. The group included 65 war veterans and 25 former opposition members, highlighting the party’s ongoing efforts to broaden its membership base. Remarks at the welcome event Speaking at the gathering, Tapfumaneyi framed his appeal to Chamisa as an invitation to national unity and political inclusion. He characterised Zanu‑PF as a broad political movement that can “accommodate everyone,” and urged opposition figures to consider joining the ruling party as part of a national reconciliation and development agenda. The event was co‑ordinated under the party’s returnee programme, which Zanu‑PF officials say aims to reintegrate former combatants and political opponents into mainstream civic and political life. Party programme and official comments Blessing Chebundo, coordinator of the returnee programme, said the reintegration of war veterans forms part of Zimbabwe’s transition from liberation struggles to national development. Chebundo and other party officials framed the initiative as a reconciliation and nation‑building exercise designed to harness the experience of veterans and former opponents for development projects. Zanu‑PF organisers said the Dzokai Kumusha / Buyani Ekhaya programme has attracted large numbers nationwide since its inception, with party figures citing between 250,000 and 300,000 people reported to have joined Zanu‑PF through similar initiatives. Political context and reactions Tapfumaneyi’s public appeal to Nelson Chamisa comes amid ongoing political competition between Zanu‑PF and opposition groupings. Invitations for high‑profile opposition leaders to cross the floor are a recurring feature of Zimbabwean politics and are often accompanied by public ceremonies and reintegration messaging. Opposition supporters and independent analysts typically view such overtures through a range of lenses, from genuine reconciliation efforts to strategic political co‑option. At the time of reporting, there was no public response from Nelson Chamisa to Tapfumaneyi’s remarks. What the returnee numbers mean Zanu‑PF’s claim that hundreds of thousands have joined through returnee programmes, if accurate, would reflect a significant mobilisation effort. Observers note, however, that headline figures require verification and that membership growth does not automatically translate into electoral support without sustained engagement and credible voter outreach. The inclusion of war veterans in the programme is politically symbolic, given their historical role in Zimbabwe’s liberation narrative and their continued influence in some rural constituencies. Pardon Tapfumaneyi urges Chamisa join Zanu‑PF 2026

Methodist Church HARARE —  Residents of Borrowdale have escalated a long‑running dispute over the operation of the United Methodist Church at Stand Number 9, Doveton Road, alleging that a fraudulent document was used to flout a High Court order that interdicted religious activities at the property. Court records under case HCH2095/24 show that the High Court of Zimbabwe, on 25 June 2024, interdicted the church from conducting services at the residential address until the property complied with the City of Harare by‑laws and planning procedures. Residents say the order has been ignored after a letter surfaced purporting to grant clearance for continued church use. Allegations of a forged clearance and referral to ZACC Residents, represented by Herbert Muromba of Kantor & Immerman , have referred the matter to the Zimbabwe Anti‑Corruption Commission (ZACC) , alleging irregularities surrounding the document said to authorise the church’s continued operations. The complaint names the Acting Director of Urban Planning for the City of Harare , Barbara Mugocha, among others, suggesting possible fraud linked to the letter. Mugocha has reportedly denied that the signature on the document is hers and described the correspondence as fraudulent. Senior council officials whose names appear on the letter have likewise distanced themselves from it, raising further questions about the document’s authenticity. Residents say the purported clearance has been used to justify defiance of the High Court order. “If the court interdicted operations, then any document authorising continued use must be scrutinised thoroughly,” one resident said. “We want to know who produced it and under whose authority.” Legal and regulatory context High Court order: The June 25, 2024, interdict barred religious services at 9 Doveton Road pending compliance with municipal planning and zoning rules. Municipal compliance: City of Harare by‑laws require properties used for institutional or commercial purposes to obtain planning clearance and change‑of‑use approvals before hosting organised activities. Alleged forgery: The emergence of a letter purporting to clear the church has prompted criminal and administrative concerns, hence the referral to ZACC for investigation. Borrowdale residents are pursuing both legal remedies to enforce the High Court order and regulatory action to determine whether municipal officials or other parties were complicit in producing or relying on a forged document. Church response and community tensions Efforts to obtain comment from the United Methodist Church  were unsuccessful at the time of reporting; calls to the church’s reverend went unanswered. The dispute adds to mounting tensions in residential neighbourhoods over the unauthorised use of private properties for commercial, institutional, or religious activities without full compliance with municipal regulations. Residents and property owners say such disputes strain community relations and undermine planning controls designed to preserve residential amenity and safety. Next steps ZACC investigation: Authorities will assess the authenticity of the document, interview named officials, and determine whether criminal or disciplinary action is warranted. Court enforcement: Residents may seek further court orders to compel compliance or to hold parties in contempt if the interdict continues to be ignored. Municipal review: The City of Harare is likely to review planning records and any internal approvals connected to Stand Number 9, and to clarify the status of the property’s permitted use. Borrowdale church forged clearance ZACC 2026

Boniface Mwangi addressing the media in Kenya Human rights activist and presidential aspirant Boniface Mwangi  has sparked national debate after publishing a list of foreign nationals he claims were issued Kenyan passports under special directives from State House, Nairobi. In a statement shared online, Mwangi alleged that the passports were processed through the Directorate of Immigration Services, led by Director General Evelyn Cheluget , acting on instructions from State House. He did not provide documentary evidence but called for public scrutiny and independent verification. Questions Over e-Citizen Processing Mwangi questioned how the applications were handled through Kenya’s e-Citizen platform, which typically requires a valid Kenyan national identity card and payment of official fees. He raised concerns about: Whose e-Citizen accounts were used Whether standard vetting procedures were followed Whether applicants were granted VIP or express processing Mwangi argued that any deviation from established procedures would undermine public trust in Kenya’s immigration system. Individuals Named in the Claims Among those mentioned is Zimbabwean businessman Wicknel Chivayo , whom Mwangi alleged was issued a passport for political reasons. He also suggested that some individuals on the list had been seen in proximity to President William Ruto, though no official documentation was presented to substantiate this claim. The controversy deepened when the name Alqoni Hamdan Dagalo Musa surfaced. Public records cited by Mwangi link the individual to sanctions listings by the United States Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control . Alqoni Hamdan Dagalo Musa is reported to be related to Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo , commander of Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces, a paramilitary group involved in Sudan’s ongoing conflict. Official Response Awaited As of publication, neither the Directorate of Immigration Services nor the State House, Nairobi, had issued an official response. The allegations have prompted wider debate over transparency, citizenship safeguards, and the integrity of Kenya’s national identification systems. Boniface Mwangi Kenyan passport allegations

Dorcas Moyo MUTARE —   The resonant halls of Marymount Teachers College  came alive over the weekend as Dangamvura High School Old Students Association (DOSA)  and AFM Bethel Assembly  claimed top honours at the Manicaland provincial finals of the Econet I‑Joy Choral Competitions. DOSA won the Community Choirs category while AFM Bethel Assembly took first place in the Church Choirs segment. The provincial contest featured eight church choirs and six community ensembles, delivering an afternoon of high‑calibre choral performance and spirited competition. Performances that stood out DOSA Chorale impressed adjudicators with lush harmonies, disciplined choreography, and a programme that blended tradition with contemporary interpretation. Their set‑piece and own‑choice performances secured top marks and the community title. AFM Bethel Assembly delivered a technically demanding and emotionally resonant programme in the church category, earning praise for tonal balance and spiritual depth. Conductor Takunda Nezomba credited the win to discipline and two weeks of intensive rehearsals. St John’s United Methodist Church Choir  and the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services Choir  received special commendation for polished, powerful presentations that pushed the winners to excel. Organisers and guest highlights Carol Makoni, National Arts Council of Zimbabwe, Manicaland provincial manager, praised the standard of performances and the partnership between the corporate sector and the arts. A guest set by celebrated gospel artist Dorcas Moyo  added sparkle to the event and energized the audience. Bonny Kanyenze, secretary of the Zimbabwe Association of Choral and Musical Arts, described the provincial contest as fiercely competitive and said the depth of participation signalled a healthy choral movement in Manicaland. What comes next The provincial winners will advance to the national finals in Harare, where they will compete against champions from other regions. Dates for the national stage will be announced by the organisers. DOSA’s spokesperson said the choir was “immensely delighted and grateful” and proud to represent Manicaland at the national finals, noting the victory reflected the group’s dedication, unity, and passion. Cultural impact Competitions such as the Econet I‑Joy Choral Competitions play a significant role in Zimbabwe’s cultural ecosystem by: Providing structured platforms for artistic expression and talent development. Raising professional standards among community and church ensembles. Strengthening corporate engagement with grassroots creativity and the creative economy. Uniting communities through shared musical heritage and performance. DOSA AFM Bethel Manicaland I-Joy choral winners 2026

Site of the bombed school The escalating conflict in the Middle East took a harrowing turn yesterday as joint military operations by the United States and Israel resulted in significant civilian casualties. Among the most devastating reports is the bombing of a girls' elementary school in southern Iran, an event that has ignited international outrage and shifted the focus from strategic military objectives to a burgeoning humanitarian crisis. Strikes Across the Islamic Republic Operation "Epic Fury" and "Roaring Lion" saw coordinated strikes reaching from Babolsar in the north to the port of Chabahar in the south [ 00:00 ]. Major cities, including the capital Tehran, Isfahan, and Karaj, were targeted in what appears to be an attempt to decapitate Iran’s leadership and military infrastructure. In Tehran, high-security areas were hit, specifically Pastoor Street, which houses the Supreme Leader’s office, the Office of the President, and the IRGC Intelligence Center [ 00:22 ]. Satellite imagery has confirmed extensive damage to the Supreme Leader’s office, though reports indicate he was not in the city at the time of the attack [ 00:45 ]. The Massacre at Minab Despite the high-profile targets in the capital, the most significant tragedy occurred in Minab, a city in the southern Hormozgan province. A girls' elementary school was directly hit during the bombardment [ 01:03 ]. The Iranian Foreign Minister confirmed that children are among the dozens killed in the strike [ 01:09 ]. Analysis of the area shows that the school is located within a residential stretch bordered by agricultural land, raising urgent questions about the targeting intelligence used during the operation [ 01:15 ]. While the U.S. and Israel have maintained that strikes are directed at military installations, the devastation in this residential zone has sparked a global debate on the "collateral damage" of this new war. Iran Retaliates: Regional Conflagration In immediate response to the strikes and the civilian deaths, Tehran has launched a counter-offensive. Missiles and drones have been intercepted throughout the region as Iran targets U.S. military bases across the Middle East [ 01:29 ]. "Weeks of diplomacy and military buildup have now resulted in this," analysts noted as the region plunged into what many fear is an irreversible cycle of violence [ 01:57 ]. With Iran now launching missiles directly into Israel, the conflict has officially moved beyond a localized exchange into a full-scale regional war. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5yeCOBRRewY Iran school bombing casualties 2026 Internal/External Backlinking Strategy Internal Link:  Link "regional war"  to your previous analysis: The Economic Fallout of the 2026 Middle East Crisis for Africa . Internal Link:  Link "IRGC"  to your deep dive: Understanding Iran’s Revolutionary Guard and Regional Influence . External Link:  View the original reporting on this tragedy via Al Jazeera English: Israel and US strike Iran . The Southerton Business Times will continue to monitor the impact of this conflict on global markets and regional stability.

Map of the Strait of Hormuz shipping route By Percy Nhara The morning of February 28, 2026, may mark a turning point in Middle East geopolitics, as escalating tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran appear to have entered a new and dangerous phase. Military operations reportedly dubbed “Epic Fury” by Washington and “Roaring Lion” by Tel Aviv have dramatically raised the stakes in a long-running shadow conflict. While official details remain fluid, early reports point to strikes on Iranian-linked assets and retaliatory missile launches targeting US positions in the Gulf region. If confirmed, the consequences will extend far beyond the Middle East with significant economic implications for Africa, including Zimbabwe. US President Donald Trump  described the reported strikes as necessary for regional security, while Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz  framed the action as pre-emptive. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi  condemned the attacks, warning of consequences. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council has reportedly authorised retaliatory operations under what Iranian media described as “True Promise 4.” Missile activity has been reported near US-linked installations in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates, though full assessments are still emerging. The United Nations  Secretary-General António Guterres  has urged restraint, warning that further escalation risks destabilising international peace and security. Markets reacted immediately, with Brent crude prices climbing sharply amid fears of supply disruption. The “Zimbabwean Shock”: What It Means for Southern Africa Though geographically distant, Zimbabwe and its regional neighbours are economically exposed to global energy and trade shocks. 1. Fuel Prices and Inflation Oil price volatility directly affects fuel-importing countries. Any sustained rise toward US$90 per barrel or higher would likely increase pump prices in Zimbabwe. Higher fuel costs feed into transport, food distribution, and manufacturing, potentially triggering inflationary pressure just as authorities attempt to stabilise the currency and rebuild confidence. 2. Strait of Hormuz Risk The Strait of Hormuz is a critical artery for roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments. Any disruption could create shipping delays, insurance surcharges, and supply bottlenecks. For African importers, that could mean higher freight costs and slower delivery of machinery, spare parts, and industrial inputs. 3. Aid and Capital Flows Geopolitical analysts warn that global powers may redirect diplomatic attention and financial resources toward the Middle East. For Zimbabwe, which is engaged in debt restructuring and re-engagement efforts, shifting global priorities could complicate negotiations or slow investment inflows. 4. Food and Fertiliser Supply The Middle East also serves as a transit corridor for fertiliser and grain exports. Disruptions could affect agricultural planning across Africa, particularly ahead of key planting seasons. While the conflict remains fluid, one reality is clear: globalisation ensures that wars no longer remain regional events. For businesses in Southerton, Harare, and across Southern Africa, the question is not whether this crisis matters but how quickly its ripple effects will be felt. If you would like, I can provide a focused analysis on the potential impact on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange (ZSE), mining exports, or currency stability. 2026 Iran crisis economic impact