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  • Zimbabwe Tobacco Auction Floors to Open 4 March as TIMB Confirms Full Farmer Payments

    Tobacco farmers grading their crop Zimbabwe’s tobacco auction floors will officially open to buyers on 4 March 2026, with authorities confirming that all farmers have been paid for last season’s deliveries. The announcement was made by Emmanuel Matsvaire, chief executive officer of the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) , while giving oral evidence before the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Lands and Agriculture. Matsvaire said preparations for the 2026 marketing season were complete. “The commencement of the tobacco selling season is on the 4th of March, 2026, and contract sales will start the following day, which is the 5th of March,” he said. The official opening ceremony will be held at the Tobacco Service Board, where Lands and Agriculture Minister Anxious Masuka  is expected to launch the Tobacco Value Chain Transformation Plan 2. A total of 115,121 farmers have registered for the 2026 season, slightly down from 127,379 last year. Small-scale growers continue to dominate production, with about 85% operating under contract arrangements. The total planted area has increased by 15%, rising from 143,000 hectares to approximately 164,536 hectares. TIMB projects the 2026 crop at around 400 million kilograms, although demand from China is expected to decline by 10 million kilograms. Authorities say alternative export markets are likely to absorb any surplus. Matsvaire told legislators that tobacco exports remain robust, with approximately US$400 million worth of tobacco exported by mid-February. Zimbabwe’s tobacco industry remains one of the country’s top foreign currency earners, playing a critical role in supporting the agricultural sector and broader economy. TIMB has licensed three auction floors for the 2026 season: Tobacco Sales Floor Premier Tobacco Auction Floor Ethical Sales Floor (newly approved) In addition, five decentralised selling points across provinces have been authorised to operate, alongside 48 registered contractors. Authorities will implement a blended grade price matrix, a weighted average derived from both auction and contract sales. The system is designed to improve transparency, fairness, and price stability. On payments, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe  has maintained the 70-30% retention framework for the 2026 marketing season. Under this arrangement, farmers will receive 70% of the proceeds in foreign currency and 30% in local currency. TIMB said payment systems are fully operational and merchants are being monitored to ensure farmers are paid within 48 hours of sale. The board will prioritise sustainable debt recovery mechanisms to protect farmers, maintain contractor confidence, and ensure long-term sector stability. With the marketing season set to begin next week, authorities are optimistic that the 2026 crop will sustain export growth and bolster farmer incomes. Zimbabwe tobacco auction 2026

  • Two Killed in Harare–Masvingo Road Crash

    Accident Scene At least two people have been confirmed dead following a collision between a Bless It Up bus and a Heyman Kole truck at the 87km peg along the Harare–Masvingo Road on Saturday, 28 February 2026. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the fatal road traffic accident, stating that both drivers died as a result of the crash. According to police, the Bless It Up bus was carrying 32 passengers and was travelling towards Harare when it collided with the truck, which was heading towards Masvingo. The truck reportedly had no passengers on board. “Both drivers succumbed to injuries. Some of the injured passengers were ferried to Chivhu General Hospital for treatment,” the ZRP said in a statement. Authorities added that further details would be released as investigations continue. Several passengers sustained injuries in the crash. Emergency services transported the injured to Chivhu General Hospital , where they are receiving medical care. The Harare–Masvingo Road is one of Zimbabwe’s major highways, linking the capital to the southern parts of the country. It has previously recorded serious road accidents, prompting repeated calls for improved road safety and stricter enforcement of traffic regulations. Police have not yet disclosed the cause of the accident. Harare Masvingo Road accident

  • Plumtree prison officer charged with aiding a convicted rapist’s escape

    Cabangani Mathe PLUMTREE —  A 47‑year‑old Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service officer stationed at Plumtree, Yusufu Yusufu, appeared before Plumtree Magistrate Joshua Nembaware on charges of aiding an inmate’s escape, court records show. He was granted US$100 bail, and the matter remains before the courts. Allegations and how the escape unfolded Prosecutors, led by Sheila Nyathi, told the court that the incident occurred last year when inmate Cabangani Mathe , serving a 20‑year sentence for rape, escaped from Plumtree Prison. The State alleges that Yusufu conspired with Mathe, supplying him with two hacksaw blades and instructing him to cut through the burglar bars of his holding‑cell window. According to the prosecution: Method: Mathe is said to have cut through three bars over five days, disguising the activity as routine cell cleaning. Escape: On 15 November last year, between 1 am and 2 am, Mathe reportedly completed the cuts and escaped. Evidence left behind: The hacksaw blades and severed metal pieces were allegedly found inside the cell after the escape. Legal process and likely next steps Yusufu faces criminal charges for allegedly facilitating an escape from lawful custody, an offence that carries serious penalties under Zimbabwean law. He was granted US$100 bail and is expected to return to court as the prosecution prepares its case. Authorities may pursue additional inquiries to determine whether other staff were involved, to locate the escaped inmate if still at large, and to assess any breaches in custodial procedures. The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service may also conduct internal disciplinary reviews alongside the criminal investigation. Public safety and institutional accountability The case highlights concerns about prison security , contraband tools, and the potential for staff collusion to undermine custodial systems. Officials typically treat escapes involving alleged staff assistance as matters requiring both criminal prosecution and institutional reform to restore public confidence. Plumtree officer charged aiding inmate escape 2026

  • Mashaile urges regional crackdown after Hawks issue warrant for Chivayo

    ANDY MASHAILE HARARE —  Retired Interpol ambassador and security strategist Andy Mashaile  has called for coordinated regional law‑enforcement action following the issuance of an arrest warrant by South Africa’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks) for high‑profile Zimbabwean socialite Joachim Chivayo  (also known as G6). The Hawks reportedly issued the warrant after Chivayo failed to appear in a Gauteng court where he faces charges linked to an alleged R15 million gold seizure. The development has prompted renewed calls for cross‑border cooperation to ensure suspects on bail comply with court conditions and to prevent flight from justice. Background of the gold case and bail conditions South African authorities say Chivayo and Ayanda Brian Gungwa were arrested on 28 November 2024 during a Hawks operation in Brakpan. The pair were allegedly found in possession of six bars of unwrought gold valued at about R15 million, and a Mercedes‑Benz SUV was seized during the operation. Both were granted bail of R20,000 each, with conditions reportedly requiring them to remain in Gauteng, not to leave South Africa, and to report weekly to the Brakpan Police Station. Their subsequent failure to appear in court led to the issuance of warrants of arrest, elevating the matter into a potential cross‑border enforcement issue. Mashaile urges Interpol cooperation and regional follow‑up Speaking to Independent Online, Andy Mashaile urged Chivayo and others linked to the case to present themselves to South African authorities. He called for cooperation between Interpol’s Central Bureau in Tshwane  and its counterpart in Zimbabwe, arguing that regional law‑enforcement agencies should work together to apprehend suspects who cross borders. “These people are on bail, and the fact that they have skipped bail means there is something to hide,” Mashaile said, adding that the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Unit should be supported in tracking down those who fail to comply with court orders. He also suggested a broader reset in the criminal‑justice cluster across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region to strengthen follow‑up on serious organised‑crime investigations and to ensure accountability. Questions over identities and public scrutiny The case has attracted attention partly because of confusion over the identity of Chivayo’s co‑accused. South African court documents list the other suspect as Ayanda Brian Gungwa , a South African national, while some Zimbabwean reports have used different names and nicknames, including Naison Chivayo and Pharaoh. South African authorities have relied on the name recorded in their court papers. Observers say consistent identification in cross‑border cases is essential to avoid legal and diplomatic complications and to ensure extradition or mutual‑assistance processes proceed smoothly if required. Political and financial transparency concerns Mashaile also raised concerns about whether proceeds from alleged illicit gold operations could be used to fund political activity, calling for transparency about the sources of funds linked to individuals facing serious economic‑crime allegations. He urged investigators to trace financial flows and to ensure that any proceeds of crime are identified and recovered through appropriate legal channels. Next steps and enforcement prospects With warrants issued, the immediate focus will be on locating the suspects and enforcing the orders. That may involve: Interagency cooperation between the South African and Zimbabwean police and Interpol channels. Verification of identities to resolve discrepancies in names used in media reports. Financial investigations to trace proceeds and establish links to alleged criminal activity. Legal follow‑up to determine whether extradition or mutual‑legal‑assistance requests are necessary. At the time of reporting, neither Chivayo nor his legal representatives had issued a public response to the warrants. South African authorities have not publicly detailed operational steps beyond the issuance of the arrest warrants. Andy Mashaile calls regional crackdown Chivayo warrant

  • Vimbai Chikwenhere confirmed as Auditor‑General

    Parliament approves Chikwenhere's appointment as Auditor-General HARARE —  Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube has confirmed the appointment of Vimbai Chikwenhere  as Auditor‑General, following her nomination by President Emmerson Mnangagwa and endorsement by the Public Accounts Committee. Presenting the nomination to Parliament, Minister Ncube said the committee had thoroughly considered Chikwenhere’s credentials and commended the appointment. He noted that the nomination was made under section 310(1) of the Constitution, which requires the President to appoint the Auditor‑General with Parliament’s approval. Professional background and qualifications Chartered accountant: Chikwenhere is a chartered accountant, a qualification the Minister highlighted as appropriate for the role. Audit experience: Her professional experience includes senior roles at Ernst & Young Zimbabwe, where she served in various audit capacities. Continuity at the Audit Office: Chikwenhere succeeds an acting headship held by Rheah Kujinga , who led the Office of the Auditor‑General after the retirement of Mildred Chiri  in 2023. Role and mandate of the Auditor‑General The Office of the Auditor‑General  is constitutionally mandated to audit all government agencies, local authorities, and state‑controlled entities under section 309 of the Constitution and the Audit Office Act. The Auditor‑General’s responsibilities include: Conducting financial and performance audits of public entities. Reporting audit findings to Parliament and relevant oversight bodies. Promoting accountability and transparency  in public financial management. Chikwenhere’s appointment places her at the helm of a key institution in Zimbabwe’s public financial management framework, with a central role in strengthening oversight of public resources. Parliamentary endorsement The Public Accounts Committee’s endorsement clears the way for Parliament to approve the President’s nomination, formalising Chikwenhere’s appointment. Following parliamentary approval, the Auditor‑General will assume full duties and lead the Audit Office’s programme of audits and reporting. Observers say the appointment will be watched closely by stakeholders seeking robust audit oversight, improved public‑sector accountability, and timely reporting on the use of public funds. Vimbai Chikwenhere Auditor-General appointment 2026

  • RBZ Caps Bank Charges, Raises Mobile Money Limits

    RBZ Governor John Mushayavanhu presenting the Monetary Policy Statement The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ)  has announced major changes to bank charges, placing limits on withdrawal and swipe fees and removing some charges altogether. The move is meant to make banking more affordable and encourage people to use formal financial services. Presenting the 2026 Monetary Policy Statement , RBZ Governor John Mushayavanhu  said banks must implement the new charges by 31 March 2026. What’s Changing? Under the new rules: Cash withdrawal fees at banking halls and ATMs are now capped at 2% of the amount withdrawn, for both US dollars and ZiG. Point-of-sale (POS) charges are capped at 1.5% of the transaction value for local and international cards. These charges cannot exceed US$20 (or ZiG equivalent) per transaction. Banks are not allowed to charge a minimum fee on POS transactions. Account balance inquiry fees have been scrapped on all banking and mobile banking platforms. Cash deposit fees have been removed. Charges for issuing or replacing bank cards must not exceed the actual cost of producing the card. The RBZ also reduced charges on the real-time gross settlement (RTGS) system. Window 1 and 2 transactions will now cost US$0.80 (down from US$0.90), while Window 3 transactions will cost US$1.10 (down from US$1.20), payable in ZiG equivalent. Why the Changes? For years, customers have complained about high bank charges. Banks argued that the fees were necessary to remain profitable. However, the central bank says excessive charges are discouraging people and businesses from using formal banking channels. According to Mushayavanhu, high transaction costs push people away from the banking system, reducing savings and limiting funds available to support economic growth. The RBZ also praised banks for continuing to waive monthly service fees on accounts with balances of US$100 and below, and for not charging fees on small transactions of US$5 and below. Higher Mobile Money Limits In another key move, the RBZ increased mobile money and ZIPIT transaction limits from ZiG8 000 to ZiG13 000 per transaction, whether person-to-person or business payments. The monthly limit has been raised to ZiG50 000. The central bank says the increase will promote wider use of ZiG, strengthen digital payments, and improve financial inclusion. Banks Welcome the Move The Bankers Association of Zimbabwe  has welcomed the new measures. Chief executive officer Fanwell Mutogo  said banks support efforts to rebuild customer confidence. He noted, however, that reducing charges alone is not enough. Broader issues, including the intermediated money transfer tax (IMTT), also need to be addressed to restore trust in the banking system fully. Overall, the changes mark a significant shift in Zimbabwe’s banking sector, with authorities hoping lower costs will bring more people back into the formal financial system. RBZ bank charges 2026

  • RBZ keeps tight policy, adjusts gold payments, and ZiG rollout

    Small-scale gold miners HARARE —  Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe Governor John Mushayavanhu delivered the 2026 Monetary Policy Statement on 27 February 2026 , announcing changes affecting exporters, small‑scale gold miners, the ZiG currency framework, and the central bank’s monetary stance. Mushayavanhu said the measures aim to support currency stability, strengthen foreign exchange buffers, and manage the transition toward wider use of the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) unit while protecting contractual obligations denominated in foreign currency. Key policy changes at a glance Export receipts: Exporters will continue to receive 30 percent of export proceeds in ZiG. Small‑scale gold miners: Payments to small‑scale miners will change to 90 percent US dollars and 10 percent ZiG, replacing the previous arrangement of 100 percent USD when selling gold to RBZ’s Fidelity. ZiG transition timeline: The RBZ removed the fixed 2030 deadline for ending the multi‑currency system and fully switching to ZiG; future steps will depend on meeting economic conditions rather than a calendar date. Currency contracts and accounts: Even with a full ZiG adoption, existing contracts in US dollars will continue to be paid in USD, and foreign currency accounts will remain unchanged. New banknotes: A new series of ZiG banknotes will be issued from 7 April 2026 — ZiG 10, 20, and 50 first, with ZiG 100 and 200 to follow later; coins will remain in circulation and be reissued as needed. Monetary policy stance: The RBZ kept the benchmark policy rate at 35 percent, citing the need to anchor inflation expectations despite annual inflation falling into single digits. Why the changes matter Gold payments for small miners. The shift to a 90:10 USD–ZiG split for small‑scale miners recognises the sector’s central role in domestic gold production while increasing ZiG liquidity. The change may affect miners’ dollar cash flows and local currency availability for transactions, and could influence incentives for formal sales to Fidelity. ZiG transition without a fixed deadline . By removing the 2030 deadline, the RBZ signalled a pragmatic, conditions‑based approach: full adoption of ZiG will depend on achieving low and stable inflation, an import cover of three to five months (up from the current 1.5 months), an efficient foreign‑exchange market, and strong demand for ZiG. This reduces the risk of a rushed policy shift that could destabilise prices or foreign‑exchange arrangements. Contracts and FX accounts preserved. The assurance that USD‑denominated contracts and foreign currency accounts will remain intact aims to protect investor and business confidence, limiting legal and operational disruption for firms and households with dollar obligations. New notes and public awareness. The RBZ’s rollout of redesigned ZiG notes and reissued coins is intended to strengthen anti‑counterfeiting measures and support orderly cash management. The central bank plans a public awareness campaign to familiarise citizens with new security features and the co‑circulation arrangements. Monetary policy caution.  Despite inflation easing to single digits, Mushayavanhu maintained a cautious stance on interest rates. The 35 percent policy rate reflects the RBZ’s view that inflation expectations must be firmly anchored before easing, and that premature rate cuts could undermine the progress achieved. Practical implications for stakeholders Exporters should plan for continued partial settlement in ZiG and manage currency risk accordingly. Small‑scale miners will need to adapt cash‑flow planning to receive most proceeds in USD, but a portion in ZiG. Businesses with USD contracts can expect continuity in payment terms, reducing legal uncertainty. Consumers and retailers should be prepared to accept both old and new ZiG notes during the co‑circulation period beginning 7 April. Financial institutions will play a central role in collecting old notes for surrender and replacement, and in educating customers about new security features. Next steps and monitoring Public awareness campaign on new ZiG notes and security features ahead of the 7 April rollout. Operational guidance from the RBZ to banks and Fidelity on implementing the new gold payment split and cash‑management procedures. Monitoring macro indicators, inflation, import cover, FX market efficiency, and ZiG demand to determine readiness for any further steps toward full ZiG adoption. Stakeholder engagement with exporters, miners, financial institutions, and businesses to manage the transition and address practical challenges. Quick facts Monetary Policy Statement date: 27 February 2026. Small‑scale miner payment split: 90% USD; 10% ZiG. Exporter ZiG shares: 30% of export earnings. ZiG banknote rollout: 7 April 2026 (ZiG 10, 20, 50); higher denominations later. Policy rate: 35 percent. Inflation context: Annual inflation in single digits; RBZ emphasises anchoring expectations. RBZ 2026 Monetary Policy exporters miners ZiG

  • Brigadier General Jonathan Hungwe Chiduke dies in Mwenezi

    Brigadier General Hungwe MWENEZI —  Brigadier General Jonathan Hungwe Chiduke  has died after reportedly collapsing at his farm in Mwenezi on Friday morning, a close relative confirmed. The death was confirmed by a family member, Tatenda Hungwe, who said Brigadier General Hungwe was stationed at the Zimbabwe National Army headquarters in Harare at the time of his passing. Further details surrounding the circumstances of his collapse and death were not immediately available. Immediate context and next steps Confirmation: A close relative confirmed the death to local contacts. Posting: At the time of his passing, Brigadier General Hungwe was attached to the Zimbabwe National Army headquarters in Harare. Investigations and formal notices: Authorities and the family are expected to release further details, including any official statement from the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and arrangements for funeral or memorial services. More to follow: Additional information is awaited from military spokespeople and the family. Legacy and service Brigadier General Hungwe’s death will be felt across military and community circles, given his senior rank and service at the national army headquarters. Further reporting will provide details of his military career, honours, and surviving family members once the family and defence authorities make that information available. Jonathan Hungwe Chiduke death Mwenezi 2026

  • US Embassy regrets Zimbabwe's withdrawal from health talks

    US Embassy press release HARARE —  The US Embassy in Harare  has reacted to Zimbabwe’s decision to pull out of negotiations on a proposed bilateral health funding agreement, expressing regret and confirming that Washington will begin winding down its health assistance to the country. Embassy statement and key points The Embassy’s statement confirmed that talks aimed at a multi‑year health partnership have collapsed after Zimbabwe raised concerns about data access and sovereignty. The proposed agreement, reported to have offered roughly US$367 million over five years  to support HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, maternal and child health, and outbreak preparedness, will not proceed following Harare’s withdrawal. The US said it regretted the outcome and that it would now begin the “difficult and regrettable task of winding down” its health assistance programmes in Zimbabwe, while ensuring an orderly transition for ongoing activities. The Embassy emphasised that it remains committed to public‑health goals but must respect Zimbabwe’s decision. Points of contention Zimbabwean officials had cited concerns that the agreement would grant the United States extensive access to sensitive health data, including pathogen samples and epidemiological information, and argued that such access could impinge on national sovereignty. The government framed its withdrawal as a defence of data protection and national control over disease‑response systems. US sources and some analysts, however, characterised the collapse of talks as a setback for Zimbabwe’s health sector , given the scale of the proposed funding and the programmes it would have supported. The Embassy’s decision to wind down assistance signals a shift in how US health support will be delivered in the near term. What comes next Officials on both sides said they would manage the practical implications of the breakdown. The US will begin steps to scale back or reconfigure its in‑country health programmes, while Zimbabwe has indicated it will pursue alternative arrangements and emphasised the need to protect national sovereignty and data governance. Observers expect discussions about how to maintain essential services, particularly HIV/AIDS and TB programmes, to continue between donors, implementing partners, and Zimbabwean authorities. US Embassy reaction to Zimbabwe health deal withdrawal Key sources:  Al Arabiya; The Star; Associated Press/ABC News. Al Arabiya    The Star    abcnews.com

  • Sylent Nqo’s ‘Huya’ Surpasses 10 Million Streams, Earns Triple Gold Status

    Silent Nqo Acclaimed Zimbabwean/Mozambican artist Sylent Nqo  is celebrating a major career milestone after his hit single Huya surpassed 10 million streams worldwide, earning triple gold status. The achievement marks a defining moment in what has already been a standout 2025 for the guitarist, composer, and singer-songwriter. Known for his distinctive blend of Afro-fusion, contemporary soul, and spiritually infused instrumentation, Nqo continues to captivate audiences across Africa and beyond. A Song That Resonated Globally Released to widespread acclaim, Huya  struck a chord with listeners through its emotive guitar melodies, layered production, and spiritual undertones. The track further cemented Nqo’s reputation as “The Guitar Sangoma,” a nickname inspired by the healing and meditative quality many fans associate with his music. The global streaming success highlights his growing influence as a boundary-pushing instrumentalist and storyteller in contemporary African music. Label Support and Strategic Growth Central to the milestone has been the backing of his label, Bridgenorth , which amplified the release across platforms and international markets throughout the year. Label executive Rob Burrell praised Nqo’s discipline and artistic vision, describing him as an embodiment of the label’s commitment to nurturing African talent with global ambition. Fellow label head Keith Farquharson commended the collaboration behind the project, calling the triple-gold certification the result of focused teamwork and artistic excellence. Reflecting on the milestone, Nqo expressed gratitude to his team and fans, describing the achievement as deeply meaningful and only the beginning. He hinted at powerful new music set for release in the near future. A Standout Year The success of Huya  caps a remarkable run of releases in 2025, including Call Me Back , Denga  featuring Suhn and Mhaw Keys, and Home Alone . The projects further cement his reputation as one of Southern Africa’s most innovative musical voices. A Career of Global Collaborations Beyond streaming numbers, Sylent Nqo has built an impressive career through collaborations with international and African icons such as UB40, Oliver Mtukudzi, and Hugh Masekela. He has also worked with contemporary stars, including Davido and Jah Prayzah. Among his accolades are the “Senior Solo Instrumental Grand Champion of the World” title in 2016 and the “Best Alternative Musician” award at the Zimbabwe Music Awards in 2019 — milestones that helped shape a career defined by innovation and global ambition. With Huya  crossing the 10-million-stream mark, Sylent Nqo’s journey as a globally recognised African instrumentalist continues to gain momentum. Sylent Nqo Huya 10 million streams

  • Son arrested after mother found murdered and hidden in disused toilet in Chihota

    MASVINGO —  A 19‑year‑old man from Chihota, under Chief Mudzimurema, is assisting police after the murder of his mother, 52‑year‑old Tambudzai Maruza, authorities said. Police arrested Nelson Zinyoro on Tuesday after he allegedly struck his mother on the head with an axe, causing her instant death. Investigators say Zinyoro, with the help of a friend identified as Gift Nyamadzawo (28), undressed the victim, dragged her body into a disused toilet in a maize field, secured the entrance, and burned her clothes. Both men were taken into custody and are facing murder charges, Mashonaland East provincial police spokesperson Inspector Simon Chazovachii confirmed. How the crime came to light Tambudzai Maruza had been reported missing on 13 February, and villagers, including her husband, joined a search. Police say suspicions were raised after Zinyoro began selling items taken from his mother’s home, including solar panels, an inverter, two cellphones, and scotch‑cart wheels. Investigators allege Zinyoro retrieved his mother’s bedroom keys, accessed her belongings, and intended to sell them for cash. Sales to villagers prompted enquiries that led to his arrest. Community reaction A villager who took part in the search described shock and disbelief at Zinyoro’s conduct and at the discovery that he had been among those looking for his mother while allegedly knowing the truth. The villager said the family and community were traumatised and demanded answers as they awaited the outcome of police investigations. Police statement Inspector Chazovachii said police had arrested two suspects in connection with the murder and that investigations were ongoing. Authorities will present the suspects to the court once inquiries are complete. The police urged members of the public with information to come forward and assist investigators.  Chihota son arrested mother murdered 2026

  • Stewart Murisa Distances Himself From Arsenal Teen Teashaun Murisa

    Stewart and Teashaun Murisa Former Castle Soccer Star of the Year winner Stewart Murisa  has clarified that he is not related to rising Arsenal prospect Teashaun Murisa , following widespread speculation on social media. Teashaun, 17, recently signed his first professional contract with Arsenal, who currently sit at the top of the Premier League standings. The right-back, born in the United Kingdom to Zimbabwean parents, is eligible to represent Zimbabwe at the international level. Social Media Speculation Online claims had suggested that Teashaun was the son of Stewart Murisa, the former forward who starred for CAPS United , Dynamos, Highlanders, and South Africa’s Bidvest Wits during his playing career. However, speaking from England, Murisa dismissed the claims and said he had been inundated with calls seeking clarification. “I am happy for Teashaun’s progress being a football person but he is not my son. Stewart Jr is my only son. He once played football but he has now stopped. A lot of people have been phoning me endlessly, wanting to know if Teashaun is my son. Let me clarify that the boy is not my son. I only have Stewart Jr,” he said. Murisa, who once had a stint with Darryn T and later attempted to pursue coaching, is now based in the United Kingdom. Rising Star at Arsenal Teashaun’s professional contract formalises his place within Arsenal’s development pathway and positions him for potential elevation to higher youth levels and possibly the senior squad. Earlier in 2025, he was among academy players invited to train with Arsenal’s first team ahead of a UEFA Champions League fixture, a move widely interpreted as a strong vote of confidence in his ability. Primarily featuring for Arsenal’s Under-18 side, Teashaun has shown versatility. Although he now operates mainly at right-back, he previously played in midfield. Youth observers describe him as technically sound, composed, in possession, and effective at breaking up opposition play. Interest From Zimbabwe Teashaun’s progress is also being closely monitored in Zimbabwe, where he is viewed as part of a promising wave of diaspora talent that could potentially strengthen the Warriors in future international competitions. While there is no family connection between the two Murisas, both share a passion for the game, one as an established former professional and the other as a rising talent in one of Europe’s top academies. Teashaun Murisa Arsenal contract

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