Minister July Moyo speaking at the conference   VICTORIA FALLS —  The SADC Sustainable Energy Week opened on Monday in Zimbabwe’s resort city of Victoria Falls, bringing together regional institutions, government agencies, private sector players, academia, and development partners to accelerate renewable energy deployment and energy‑efficiency measures across southern Africa. Running through Friday under the theme “Driving Regional Economic Growth through Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency,” the event aims to strengthen regional cooperation on policy, investment, and technology transfer to support an energy transition that underpins industrialisation and economic growth. Ministers and stakeholders stress coordinated regional action In his opening remarks, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Energy and Power Development, July Moyo, urged a coordinated approach to expand renewables across the region. “We need to strengthen our regulatory systems by synchronizing laws, tariffs, and the application of systems,” he said, calling for harmonised frameworks that reduce barriers to cross‑border investment and grid integration. Moyo emphasised the complementary roles of public and private sectors, and highlighted energy efficiency as a critical lever to ensure available supply reaches productive users in industry, mining, and other sectors. “Our machinery in industry, in mining, and across the entire economy must be energy efficient if we are going to realize the benefits of the available energy resources in our countries,” he added. Conference priorities: policy, finance, technology, and skills Delegates at the week‑long forum will focus on several priority areas: Regulatory harmonisation: aligning tariffs, licensing, and grid codes to enable regional trade in electricity and attract investment. Financing and investment: mobilising public and private capital for utility‑scale renewables, distributed generation, and energy‑efficiency retrofits. Technology transfer and local industry: promoting manufacturing, assembly, and skills development to capture value locally. Energy efficiency: implementing standards, incentives, and industrial programmes to reduce demand and improve competitiveness. Regional cooperation: strengthening SADC mechanisms for cross‑border projects, pooled procurement, and shared infrastructure. Speakers include senior officials from SADC member states, regional utilities, development finance institutions, and private developers. The event will showcase pilot projects, financing models, and technical solutions aimed at scaling clean energy deployment while improving system resilience. Context: SADC energy challenges and opportunities SADC comprises 16 member states, Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, with diverse energy endowments and development needs. The region faces persistent challenges: constrained generation capacity, ageing transmission networks, limited access in rural areas, and fiscal pressures that complicate utility reform. At the same time, SADC countries possess significant renewable resources, solar, wind, hydro, and biomass, and a growing private‑sector interest. Conference organisers say coordinated policy, pooled financing, and targeted industrial strategies can unlock regional value chains, create jobs, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. SADC Sustainable Energy Week 2026

US Embassy in Harare   HARARE —  Zimbabwe has formally discontinued talks with the United States over a proposed $350 million memorandum of understanding (MoU) on health funding after President Emmerson Mnangagwa directed his government to stop negotiations, government officials say. A letter dated December 23, 2025, from Albert Chimbindi, secretary for foreign affairs and international trade, instructed the secretaries of finance and health to end discussions on the agreement. The document, seen by local media, quotes the President as saying Zimbabwe must “discontinue any negotiation with the USA on the clearly lopsided MoU that blatantly compromises and undermines the sovereignty and independence of Zimbabwe as a country.” Key objections cited by Harare Zimbabwe’s government rejected the MoU on several grounds: Data access concerns: The United States sought direct access to Zimbabwe’s health data over an agreed period, a provision Harare described as an intelligence overreach. Resource access: Washington reportedly pushed for access to Zimbabwe’s critical mineral resources as part of the broader arrangement. Multilateralism principle: Zimbabwe argued that a bilateral health architecture with the US would be inconsistent with its commitment to multilateral institutions, noting Washington’s earlier withdrawal from the World Health Organization under the Trump administration. Harare said entering a parallel bilateral framework would effectively legitimise that exit. Despite Zimbabwe’s decision, the US America First Global Health Strategy (AFGHS) has secured similar agreements with other African states; at least 14 countries on the continent have signed comparable pacts, according to public reporting. Aid context and potential impact The MoU was intended as the framework for future US health support to Zimbabwe under the AFGHS. The decision to halt negotiations comes amid broader shifts in US foreign assistance: internal US State Department communications reported in international media indicate planned reductions or reallocation of humanitarian funding to several African countries, with Zimbabwe among those affected. An internal State Department email cited by international outlets said projects in Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Malawi, Mali, Niger, Somalia, and Zimbabwe would be cancelled because “there is no strong nexus between the humanitarian response and US national interests.” The US Embassy in Harare had not responded to requests for comment at the time of publication. Zimbabwe’s formal rejection of the MoU closes the door on the specific bilateral framework proposed under AFGHS but leaves open other channels of international cooperation. Government officials and development partners will need to assess the implications for ongoing health programmes and humanitarian support, and whether alternative multilateral arrangements can be strengthened to meet Zimbabwe’s public‑health needs. Zimbabwe halts US health MoU 2026

Displaced civilians in Sudan humanitarian camp   KHARTOUM/ENTEBBE —  Sudan’s Foreign Ministry has strongly condemned Uganda for hosting Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commander of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), after a meeting with President Yoweri Museveni in Entebbe that marked Dagalo’s first public appearance since September. Khartoum described the reception as an “insult to humanity” and accused Uganda of minimising or enabling atrocities attributed to the RSF. Khartoum says meeting breaches regional and humanitarian commitments In a statement issued on Sunday, Sudan’s ministry said the visit “disregards the most basic human values” and runs counter to Uganda’s obligations under regional bodies such as the African Union, which have documented alleged RSF abuses. The ministry argued that welcoming Dagalo amounted to tacit support for forces accused of committing large‑scale crimes against Sudanese civilians and warned that Khartoum would not tolerate neighbouring territory being used to support rebel operations. Uganda frames the meeting as a push for dialogue Ugandan officials, including President Museveni, said the meeting focused on dialogue and efforts to end the conflict, with Museveni noting he had urged negotiations. The Entebbe meeting came days after the United States imposed sanctions on several RSF commanders for their alleged role in the siege and capture of al‑Fashir, underscoring the diplomatic sensitivity of Dagalo’s visit. Uganda has not issued a detailed public rebuttal to Khartoum’s protest as of this report. Conflict context and humanitarian toll The meeting thrust Dagalo back into the international spotlight amid a conflict that began in April 2023 between the Sudanese army and the RSF. The United Nations estimates and humanitarian agencies say the fighting has killed tens of thousands, displaced roughly 13 million people, and produced one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises. Sudan’s government framed the Entebbe reception as undermining efforts to hold perpetrators accountable and to protect civilians. Diplomatic fallout and next steps Khartoum’s formal protest signals a potential deterioration in bilateral relations and raises questions about regional mediation efforts. Analysts say the episode could complicate peace initiatives by eroding trust between the internationally recognised Sudanese government and neighbouring states. Observers will watch for an official Ugandan response and any follow‑up actions by regional organisations or the United Nations. Sudan condemns Uganda Dagalo visit 2026

Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister, Hon. Felix Mhona Harare’s Willovale Road was officially reopened on February 23, 2026, following extensive rehabilitation works that have brought long-awaited relief to commuters, businesses , and residents in the capital. The road, which had deteriorated into a major congestion point and drawn criticism from motorists, has now been resurfaced and upgraded, with works stretching up to Chinzou Roundabout. The smoother carriageway is expected to significantly improve traffic flow along one of the city’s key industrial routes. The reopening ceremony was led by Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister, Hon. Felix Mhona, who was joined by senior government officials, including Harare Metropolitan Province Minister of State, Senator Charles Tavengwa, and Goodwills Masimirembwa, the provincial chairperson of ZANU-PF. Speaking at the event, Minister Mhona said the rehabilitation project forms part of the Second Republic’s broader infrastructure drive aimed at modernising Zimbabwe’s road network. He noted that improved roads are critical to unlocking economic growth, easing the cost of doing business, and enhancing safety for motorists. Willovale Road serves as a vital link for industrial traffic and daily commuters, and its poor state had previously resulted in long delays, vehicle damage, and increased travel times. The upgraded surface is expected to reduce bottlenecks that had become a daily frustration, particularly during peak hours. Police officers were deployed to manage traffic during the reopening, as traffic lights along the corridor struggled to cope with increased vehicle volumes. Authorities indicated that further traffic management measures could be introduced if necessary to maintain smooth flow. Residents welcomed the development. One resident, Felix, expressed optimism that the improved road would change driver behaviour. “Let’s hope because of the smooth road, motorists are going to behave. Ndozvavanoda zvespeed tovaziva, yavacarpetka iyi,” he said, cautioning that drivers may be tempted to speed now that the road surface has been upgraded. The rehabilitation of Willovale Road is aligned with ongoing government projects, including the construction of interchanges, the upgrading of major highways, and the establishment of asphalt plants to strengthen local road maintenance capacity. Minister Mhona speaking to journalists Officials say such infrastructure investments are designed to boost regional trade, improve connectivity between industrial zones and residential areas, and enhance the overall quality of life for Harare residents. With the reopening now complete, motorists are expected to experience shorter travel times and improved driving conditions along one of the capital’s previously troubled routes. Willovale Road Harare

Shimron Hetmyer MUMBAI —  Shimron Hetmyer produced a blistering 85 off 34 balls as West Indies opened the T20 World Cup Super 8 stage with a commanding 107‑run victory over Zimbabwe at the Wankhede Stadium. Hetmyer smashed seven sixes and seven fours at a strike rate of 250, powering West Indies to a mammoth 254‑6. Rovman Powell added a brisk 59 off 35. At the same time, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, and Jason Holder provided valuable middle‑order contributions to lift the total to the second‑highest in T20 World Cup history. Hetmyer dominates, Powell and company accelerate Hetmyer was dropped twice by Tashinga Musekiwa — on nine and again on 70 — before Graeme Cremer finally had him caught at deep mid‑wicket by Brian Bennett. Hetmyer’s innings combined intelligent strike rotation with brutal power hitting; he reached his fifty off 19 balls, the quickest by a West Indian at this World Cup. Powell’s 35‑ball 59 and late cameos from Rutherford, Shepherd, and Holder ensured West Indies posted an imposing target that left Zimbabwe with an uphill chase. Zimbabwe’s reply collapses under spin pressure Chasing 255, Zimbabwe were rocked early. Akeal Hosein bowled Bennett with a beauty for five and removed Ryan Burl three balls later for a duck, leaving the Chevrons 20‑3 inside the third over. Left‑arm spinner Gudakesh Motie then ran through the middle order, finishing with 4‑28 as West Indies’ spinners claimed seven of the wickets. Brad Evans offered late resistance, smashing five sixes in a defiant 21‑ball 43, and added a record 10th‑wicket World Cup stand of 44 with Richard Ngarava. But the chase was never realistic after the early spin onslaught. Match context and takeaways West Indies total: 254‑6 (Hetmyer 85, Powell 59) Zimbabwe reply: bowled out; notable late hitting from Brad Evans (43) Key bowlers: Motie 4‑28; Hosein, early strikes; Cremer, the only Zimbabwe bowler under 10 economy The result underlined West Indies’ destructive batting depth and the potency of their left‑arm spin pairing. For Zimbabwe, the defeat was a heavy reversal after earlier tournament upsets over Australia and Sri Lanka, and highlighted the cost of missed chances in the field. Hetmyer 85 West Indies Zimbabwe Super 8

Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe ALEXANDRA MAGISTRATE’S COURT —  Late former president Robert Mugabe’s son, Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe, will remain in custody for another week after his attempted murder case was postponed on Monday to allow for a formal bail application. The 29‑year‑old made his first appearance at the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court alongside his bodyguard, Tobias Tamirepi Mugabe Matonhdze, following their arrest at a property in Hyde Park, Sandton, last week after a shooting incident in which a staff member at the residence was injured. Court proceedings and investigation status Prosecutors told the court that investigations are “far from over.” Proceedings were delayed after the accused were initially taken to the Randburg Magistrate’s Court in error. Magistrate Renier Boshoff reportedly expressed frustration and at one point threatened to strike the matter from the roll before the accused were brought before the correct court. In addition to attempted murder, the pair now face charges of defeating the administration of justice and contravening the Firearms Control Act. Prosecutor Lufuno Maphiri said the accused are charged under the doctrine of common purpose. The firearm allegedly used in the incident has not been recovered. The State said it suspects the weapon was concealed and confirmed it remains missing. Police reportedly searched the property, including draining and inspecting a swimming pool, but the firearm had still not been located by Monday. Maphiri also said authorities still need to profile both accused and verify their immigration status. Health and legal representation Mugabe’s lawyer, Sinenhlanhla Mnguni, declined to comment in detail on reports that his client had collapsed in custody over the weekend, saying only that “at this stage he is fine.” The matter was postponed to 3 March for a formal bail application, with the State indicating it intends to oppose bail. Family and background notes Bellarmine Mugabe is the youngest son of the late Robert Mugabe and his second wife, Grace Mugabe, who was not present in court. Grace Mugabe is reportedly in Singapore and faces an outstanding 2018 South African warrant linked to an alleged assault case involving model Gabriella Engels. Bellarmine Mugabe remanded 2026

Damaged buildings in Gaza after the conflict   JERUSALEM —  Israel has informed the United States that it will not provide financial contributions to the Board of Peace’s Gaza reconstruction efforts, Security Cabinet Minister Zeev Elkin confirmed Friday. The declaration marks a clear divergence between Tel Aviv and the international coalition assembled by President Donald Trump to rebuild the war‑ravaged enclave. Reasoning behind Israel’s refusal “We did not give money to the Board of Peace,” Elkin said. “We were attacked, and there is no reason for us to finance reconstruction work in Gaza.” The minister framed Israel’s stance on the basis that the October 7 attacks that triggered the two‑year war placed responsibility for Gaza’s devastation on Hamas, not on Israel, and therefore Israel should not be expected to finance recovery. The Board of Peace, established under the U.S. initiative, secured pledges totaling more than $7 billion from Gulf states and other partners at its inaugural Washington meeting. Elkin’s announcement underscores a diplomatic split between Israel and the international coalition coordinating reconstruction pledges and planning. Divergence from the international coalition The board’s membership includes Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait, which have committed billions to Gaza’s recovery while also acting as mediators alongside Egypt and Türkiye. Israel’s refusal to participate financially places the burden of rebuilding largely on the international community and Palestinian authorities, complicating coordination among donors, implementers, and security stakeholders. Implications for reconstruction and governance Gaza faces unprecedented destruction after Israel’s military campaign, with reconstruction needs estimated in the tens of billions of dollars. Israel’s decision not to contribute may affect discussions on governance arrangements, security guarantees, and oversight mechanisms for reconstruction projects. The position could also influence donor confidence, timelines for rebuilding, and negotiations over how aid is delivered and monitored. Israeli officials say their refusal is consistent with the view that Hamas bears responsibility for the war’s devastation. Observers warn the stance may complicate efforts to align security arrangements with reconstruction plans and to ensure that funds are used for civilian recovery rather than military ends. Next steps and diplomatic context The Board of Peace and its member states will need to navigate Israel’s refusal while advancing pledges and operational plans. Coordination among the United States, regional donors, the Palestinian authorities, and international agencies will be critical to translating commitments into reconstruction on the ground. The diplomatic divergence also raises questions about how security, accountability, and reconstruction will be balanced in post‑conflict Gaza.  Israel refuses fund Gaza reconstruction 2026

Fally Ipupa In the vibrant streets of Kinshasa, musicians, archivists , and cultural historians are intensifying efforts to safeguard the legacy of Congolese rumba, a genre whose roots stretch back generations before formal European colonial rule. More than a soundtrack for celebrations and nightlife, Congolese rumba represents a pillar of national identity in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In 2021, the genre received global recognition when UNESCO inscribed Congolese rumba on its Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list, citing its role in social cohesion and cultural expression across Central Africa. Yet despite international acclaim, cultural custodians warn the genre faces challenges in attracting sustained engagement from younger audiences increasingly drawn to global pop and digital-era sounds. At the forefront of preservation efforts is the National Rumba Museum in Kinshasa. Deputy Director Glodi Nkiadiasivi describes the institution as a living archive designed to protect instruments, costumes, recordings, and personal artifacts of legendary performers. “This bank, which is the National Rumba Museum, exists so that artists even centuries from now when they are no longer alive can continue to preserve the objects used by these artists as a record that will allow us to tell future generations about their history and the impact they demonstrated during their artistic careers,” he said. Music scholars note that Congolese rumba has never been static. Christian Kayembe, a teacher at the Institut National des Arts (INA), explains that the genre has continually absorbed external influences while maintaining its rhythmic backbone. “When we talk about Grand Kallé and Franco Luambo, you can tell that it’s deeply rooted in dance music,” Kayembe said. “But today, artists like Fally Ipupa and Ferre Gola reflect broader global influences.” Historically, Congolese rumba evolved through cultural exchanges between Central Africa, the Caribbean, and Latin America, particularly Cuban son recordings that circulated in West and Central Africa during the early 20th century, according to UNESCO documentation and African music historians. The museum aims to keep that legacy alive through guided tours, academic conferences, and live performances that connect young audiences to the genre’s origins. Cultural advocates argue that structured education and institutional backing are essential to ensure rumba’s continued relevance in a fast-changing entertainment landscape. As Kinshasa’s music scene continues to evolve, the preservation of rumba is not merely about nostalgia. It is about sustaining an artistic tradition that shaped modern African popular music and continues to influence sounds far beyond Congo’s borders. Congolese rumba preservation in Kinshasa

Bryanston mansion, formerly owned by Mutumwa Mawere Johannesburg – The late Zimbabwean businessman Mutumwa Mawere’s luxury mansion in Bryanston, Johannesburg, is scheduled to go under the hammer for R6 million as part of his insolvent estate. The upmarket property, located at 62 Cambridge Road in the affluent suburb of Bryanston, is being sold under sequestration after liabilities in Mawere’s estate exceeded the value of realisable assets. Under South African insolvency law, assets of a sequestrated estate are liquidated to settle outstanding debts, often leaving limited or no inheritance for beneficiaries. Mawere, who died aged 66 on January 15, 2026, at Mediclinic Bryanston, was once one of Zimbabwe’s most prominent industrialists, with business interests spanning mining, manufacturing, agriculture, telecommunications, and media. Luxury Features Detailed in Auction Listing According to the property listing on Property24, the expansive 5,098m² estate is described as a “magnificent home” set within landscaped gardens. The four-bedroom residence boasts high-end amenities, including: A swimming pool Private tennis court Miniature golf course Wine cellar Billiard room Extra-large double garage and carport Gazebo and two garden storerooms Staff accommodation A fully separate three-bedroom cottage suitable for an extended family or rental income Financial details indicate a monthly bond repayment of R58,898 and municipal rates of R7,686.99. Once-off acquisition costs are estimated at R612,865, with a minimum gross monthly income requirement of R196,328 for prospective buyers. The property was listed for auction on February 11 and is scheduled for sale on February 25 at 11am. Rise, Fall, and Legal Battles Mawere built his business empire through Africa Resources Limited and SMM Holdings, growing operations across Southern Africa. However, in 2004, his corporate interests were placed under reconstruction by the Government of Zimbabwe under the Reconstruction of State-Indebted Insolvent Companies Act. Authorities cited SMM Holdings’ insolvency, debts to state-linked entities, and allegations of fraud and foreign currency externalisation. Mawere denied wrongdoing, insisting the move was politically motivated. He relocated to South Africa and pursued legal avenues to regain control of his companies, but was unsuccessful in overturning the reconstruction order. Expert Insight Johannesburg-based insolvency practitioner Thabo Ndlovu said high-value estate auctions often attract investors seeking below-market acquisitions. “When estates are insolvent, trustees are obligated to maximise recovery for creditors. Prime properties like this typically draw strong interest, especially in established suburbs like Bryanston,” he said. As the auction date approaches, Mawere’s Bryanston mansion stands as a symbol of both his former corporate stature and the complex financial and legal challenges that marked his later years. Mutumwa Mawere Bryanston mansion auction

Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo – European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib has described the humanitarian crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as “catastrophic” following a high-level visit to the conflict-hit city of Goma. Hadja Lahbib and a Congolese official Lahbib concluded her regional tour of the Great Lakes area in Goma on Friday, marking the first visit by a European Union delegation to the city since it was seized by the March 23 Movement (M23), also known as M23/AFC, during a rapid offensive in January 2025. Rising Violations of Humanitarian Law During her visit, the Commissioner toured hospitals and met local officials and humanitarian partners, raising alarm over what she termed “increasing and flagrant violations of international humanitarian law.” “The situation is catastrophic,” Lahbib said, urging all parties to respect civilian protection norms and allow unimpeded humanitarian access. Medical workers in Goma told local media that health facilities are overwhelmed by casualties from renewed clashes between M23 fighters, pro-government Wazalendo militias, and the Congolese armed forces (FARDC). An aid worker present during Lahbib’s hospital visit described the crisis as “one of the most complex displacement emergencies in the region.” High-Level Regional Engagement Before she arrived in Goma, Lahbib met with DRC President Félix Tshisekedi in Kinshasa. Discussions reportedly focused on humanitarian support, civilian protection, and diplomatic efforts to stabilise eastern Congo. She also held talks in Kigali with Rwandan President Paul Kagame, amid ongoing regional tensions and allegations of cross-border involvement in the conflict claims Rwanda has consistently denied. In Goma, Lahbib met representatives of the M23/AFC movement, signalling the EU’s willingness to engage all stakeholders in pursuit of de-escalation. She noted there were indications the group wanted to move “forwards, towards dialogue, peace, towards a ceasefire.” Her comments came as M23 reportedly agreed to release prisoners captured from the Wazalendo militia and Congolese armed forces, a potential confidence-building step in a fragile environment. Regional Implications Eastern DRC has long been plagued by armed conflict involving multiple rebel groups vying for territorial control in mineral-rich areas. Analysts say the latest escalation has heightened fears of broader regional instability within the Great Lakes region. Security analyst Jean-Baptiste Mugenzi told Southerton Business Times  that the EU’s visible engagement “sends a message that the international community is closely monitoring developments and expects compliance with humanitarian norms.” As fighting continues, Lahbib reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to supporting humanitarian operations and diplomatic initiatives aimed at achieving a ceasefire and lasting peace in eastern Congo. Hadja Lahbib Goma humanitarian crisis

Daren Sammy speaking at a press conference  — West Indies coach previews Super Eights match MUMBAI —  West Indies head coach Daren Sammy says Zimbabwe will be carrying extra motivation into Monday’s Super Eights match after topping a difficult first‑round group, and warned his side to expect a confident, well‑prepared opponent at the Wankhede Stadium. Sammy pointed to Zimbabwe’s unbeaten run in the opening phase, which included shock wins over co‑hosts Sri Lanka and former champions Australia, as a source of momentum that can galvanise a team. “I’m pretty sure Zimbabwe, looking at that group there, gave them motivation and inspiration to come out and play the way they played,” Sammy told reporters. “Like us, they are very confident, they are playing some good cricket. T20 is a format that brings teams closer together. There’s no clear‑cut winner.” Both sides advanced from the group stage without defeat, a surprising outcome that has raised expectations for an open, competitive Super Eights phase. Sammy noted the psychological edge that underdog status can provide. “I could understand from that standpoint, where nobody gives you a chance, how you could use that as inspiration,”  He said, adding that Zimbabwe’s recent results will have strengthened their belief. Sammy also highlighted the West Indies’ own strengths going into the fixture. For the first time in a long while, the squad is at near full availability, giving the coaching staff more selection options and balance. “It’s the first time in a long time that we’ve had every single person that is available for West Indies playing. Plus, the guys believe they could do something special,” he said. That optimism, Sammy suggested, underpins the team’s preparation and mindset. The two teams last met in the T20 World Cup in October 2022, when West Indies won by 31 runs en route to a tournament that saw England crowned champions. Monday’s encounter at the Wankhede Stadium promises to be another high‑intensity contest, with both sides carrying confidence and momentum from flawless group campaigns. Zimbabwe will face the West Indies in Match 44 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Super Eight stage . Match Details Date:  Monday, 23 February 2026 Time:  15:30 local time (Mumbai, India) Venue:  Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai Format:  T20 Stage:  Super Eight Squads (Key Players) West Indies: Shai Hope (c, wk) Jason Holder Shimron Hetmyer Rovman Powell Sherfane Rutherford Akeal Hosein Johnson Charles (wk) Romario Shepherd Gudakesh Motie Brandon King Jayden Seales Zimbabwe: Sikandar Raza (c) Graeme Cremer Ryan Burl Wellington Masakadza Richard Ngarava Blessing Muzarabani Brad Evans Ben Curran Tony Munyonga Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk) Clive Madande (wk) Daren Sammy Zimbabwe Super Eights 2026

Shrewsbury Folk Festival crowd at West Mid Showground Zimbabwe’s own Edith WeUtonga has been confirmed as part of the growing international line-up for the 2026 edition of the Shrewsbury Folk Festival, set to take place from 28–31 August at the DMOS People West Mid Showground in Shrewsbury, England. The award-winning singer, songwriter, and mbira ambassador joins a diverse roster of global folk and roots acts, marking another milestone in her expanding international career. Known for blending traditional Zimbabwean rhythms with contemporary Afro-fusion sounds, Edith WeUtonga’s inclusion places Zimbabwean music firmly on one of the United Kingdom’s most respected folk stages. Festival organisers this week announced additional artists, including Cut Capers, Malin Lewis, and Katherine Priddy. They will perform alongside previously confirmed headliners such as three-time Grammy Award winner Lucinda Williams, Irish folk favourite Cara Dillon, and Ferocious Dog, who will appear with The Celtic Folk Orchestra. For Edith WeUtonga, the booking represents more than just another international appearance. It highlights the growing global appetite for African-rooted contemporary folk music. Music promoter Tendai Chitapi said the development is significant for Zimbabwe’s creative sector. “Edith has consistently carried Zimbabwean cultural identity onto global platforms. Performing at Shrewsbury exposes her music to new audiences who value authenticity and heritage-driven sound,” Chitapi said. The 2026 festival will also feature a newly commissioned collaboration by the English Folk Dance and Song Society titled Adriano Adewale & Friends: Rooted and Rising . The project brings together composer and percussionist Adriano Adewale with acclaimed musicians including Nancy Kerr, Cohen Braithwaite-Kilcoyne, and Kuljit Bhamra. The performance promises to unite musical traditions from England, Scotland, Brazil, Haiti, Colombia, the United States, and Punjab. Edith WeUtonga’s performance is expected to showcase her signature mbira-infused sound and socially conscious songwriting, elements that have earned her recognition across Europe and Africa. Fans in the diaspora have already expressed excitement on social media, with one UK-based Zimbabwean writing, “It’s powerful to see our music represented on such a respected stage.” As anticipation builds toward August, Edith WeUtonga’s participation stands as a proud moment for Zimbabwe’s arts community, reinforcing her status as one of the country’s leading cultural exports and a global ambassador of contemporary Zimbabwean folk music. Edith WeUtonga Shrewsbury Folk Festival 2026