Zimbabwe mine workers The Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Minerals Workers Union (ZDaMWU) has formally proposed a US$650 minimum wage for mine workers in 2026, intensifying calls for salary reforms across Zimbabwe’s booming mining sector. The demand was adopted during the union’s national council meeting in Bulawayo, where leaders described the proposal as a decisive step toward fair compensation. Currently, mine workers earn between US$390 and US$400 per month, a figure the union says no longer reflects the sector’s strong financial performance. Mining Sector Growth Fails to Lift Wages Zimbabwe’s mining industry has experienced significant growth, driven by high international mineral prices, particularly gold, platinum, and chrome. Strong export earnings and increased production have boosted revenues for major mining companies. However, ZDaMWU argues that these gains have not translated into improved worker salaries. “Mining is performing well. Gold is performing well. Platinum and chrome are doing well, but that performance is not reaching the pockets of workers,” said ZDaMWU General Secretary Justice Chinhema. Workers report that stagnant wages have left families struggling to afford necessities such as rent, groceries, transport, and school fees. With rising living costs, many households face mounting debt and financial instability despite working in one of the country’s top-performing sectors. Employers Urge Caution Mining employers, represented by the Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe, have called for wage restraint. They argue that maintaining currency stability and controlling inflation are critical to sustaining long-term investment and protecting the sector’s future. However, ZDaMWU maintains that macroeconomic stability should not come at the expense of workers’ livelihoods. The union accuses employers of prioritising “super profits” over equitable wage distribution. “Stability of the local currency must not come at the expense of workers' livelihoods. An income must be able to put food on the table,” Chinhema said. Call for Fair Share of Mining Profits Beyond daily survival, the union says higher wages are essential for professional development. As mining technology evolves, workers need access to training and skills development to remain competitive. At current pay levels, many cannot afford further education or upskilling opportunities. ZDaMWU has also criticised what it describes as misplaced priorities, alleging that some employers promote funeral insurance policies instead of meaningful wage increases. With global mineral prices remaining favourable, the debate over wage equity in Zimbabwe’s mining sector is expected to intensify. For 2026, the union’s position is clear: the push for a US$650 minimum wage for Zimbabwe mine workers has officially begun. Zimbabwe mine workers US$650 minimum wage

Range Vale crude oil tanker Zimbabwe has raised serious concerns over the alleged misuse of its national flag by a sanctioned crude oil tanker accused of operating within the so-called “shadow fleet,” a network of vessels often used to transport restricted oil cargoes outside international regulatory frameworks. In a formal communication to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the Government of Zimbabwe distanced itself from the 111,800-deadweight-tonne crude tanker Range Vale  (formerly Turbo Voyager , built in 2005). Authorities said the vessel had been sailing under documents purportedly issued by an entity calling itself the “Registrar of Ships, Zimbabwe Maritime Authority,” a body the government insists does not exist. Zimbabwe, a landlocked country in southern Africa, does not maintain an active maritime registry for ocean-going vessels. In its letter to the IMO, Harare “categorically disassociated” itself from the alleged registrar and any registration certificates issued in its name. Officials warned that fraudulent flag documentation poses significant legal, financial, and reputational risks to states whose identities are exploited. Shadow Fleet Scrutiny Intensifies The case comes amid heightened global scrutiny of shadow fleet operations, ageing tankers that often change names, ownership structures, and flags to evade sanctions and regulatory oversight. These vessels are commonly linked to the transport of sanctioned crude oil from countries facing international trade restrictions. In recent years, maritime authorities and international watchdogs have flagged concerns over falsified registries, opaque beneficial ownership, and deceptive shipping practices, including ship-to-ship transfers conducted in international waters. Zimbabwe’s protest follows a similar alarm raised by Madagascar, which also reported the suspected misuse of its flag by sanctioned vessels. Several smaller or developing nations have increasingly found their national identities exploited in phantom registry schemes designed to lend legitimacy to tankers seeking to bypass sanctions. Risks of Fraudulent Flagging Under international maritime law, vessels must sail under the flag of a recognised state, which assumes responsibility for regulatory oversight, safety compliance, and environmental standards. Fraudulent flagging undermines this system and creates enforcement gaps that can facilitate sanctions evasion, tax avoidance, and unsafe operating practices. The IMO has repeatedly warned member states about fraudulent ship registries and the misuse of national documentation. Such schemes can damage a country’s international standing and potentially expose it to legal disputes or diplomatic complications. Broader Implications The alleged misuse of Zimbabwe’s identity highlights broader weaknesses in global shipping oversight, particularly as sanctions enforcement tightens and illicit maritime networks adapt. Older crude tankers, often over 15 years old, are frequently associated with shadow fleet activity due to lower acquisition costs and reduced scrutiny in secondary markets. For Zimbabwe, the immediate priority is reputational protection and formal clarification within the global maritime community. By notifying the IMO, authorities aim to prevent further misuse of the country’s name and ensure that any fraudulent registrations are invalidated. As international regulators step up monitoring of shadow fleet vessels, the case underscores the growing complexity of sanctions enforcement in global oil markets and the need for stronger verification mechanisms within maritime registries worldwide. Zimbabwe-sanctioned tanker fake flag registration; IMO

Sengezo Tshabangu Self‑declared Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) senator Sengezo Tshabangu has warned opposition legislators that any MP who refuses to back Zanu‑PF’s proposed constitutional amendment to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term to 2030 will be removed from Parliament. In a social media post, Tshabangu said amending the Constitution required a joint position between the ruling party and the opposition. “However, as opposition, we agreed to treat the matter as settled, and any opposition MP who goes against this position will be relieved of their duties and replaced,” he wrote. Opposition reaction The statement drew sharp criticism from some opposition figures. Daniel Molokele, the Hwange Central legislator, compared Tshabangu to former opposition leader Douglas Mwonzora, saying the episode echoed past divisions. “There is nothing new under the sun. Tshabangu is Mwonzora, part two. He will be abused by ED and then dumped later, just like Mwonzora,” Molokele said. Molokele added that MPs would take individual positions on the issue. “My own stance is very clear. I am totally opposed to the so‑called 2030 Agenda. My term of office will definitely end in 2028 if I manage by miracle to get there,” he said. “I actually assume that I will be recalled from Parliament this year.” Context and fallout The 2030 agenda refers to proposals to amend the Constitution to extend the presidential and parliamentary terms to 2030. Tshabangu’s remarks follow internal disputes within the opposition over engagement with the proposed Constitutional Amendment No. 3, which has generated controversy across the political spectrum. Tshabangu’s threat to remove dissenting MPs underscores ongoing tensions within opposition ranks and highlights the political sensitivity surrounding any attempt to alter the electoral timetable. Several opposition MPs have previously distanced themselves from statements or meetings linked to factions supporting the 2030 agenda, and party leaders have repeatedly emphasised adherence to official positions. Sengezo Tshabangu 2030 warning

Parliament chambers The Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No 3) Bill, 2026 was published in a Gazette Extraordinary on Monday. The Bill proposes several significant constitutional changes, including alterations to the presidential election process, extensions to terms of office, and the application of those changes to the current officeholders. Key proposals in the Bill Presidential election by Parliament — The Bill proposes that the President be elected by Parliament rather than by a direct vote in a general election. Extension of terms — It proposes that the President’s term of office and the life of Parliament be extended by two years. Application to current officeholders — The Bill would apply these changes to the current President and Members of Parliament, effectively moving the next general election from 2028 to 2030. Accessing the Bill and next steps The full text of the Bill is available on the Veritas website, https://www.veritaszim.net/node/7890 A detailed analysis and a follow‑up bulletin will be issued shortly to examine the legal and political implications of the proposed amendments. Veritas disclaimer Veritas states that it makes every effort to ensure reliable information, but it cannot accept legal responsibility for the material supplied. Constitution Amendment No 3 Bill 2026

MSU INNOVATION HUB By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times In our previous session, How to Write a Winning Grant Proposal , we explored how creatives can unlock funding to fuel their ideas. But a tougher question often follows: what happens when the grant (or the dream) arrives, but the tools are out of reach? For a filmmaker in Harare or an animator in Gweru, the reality is brutal. A cinema-grade camera, professional sound studio, or high-end rendering computer can cost more than a small family car. For years, this “equipment wall” has quietly limited Zimbabwean talent, forcing creators to compromise on quality or abandon projects altogether. Under National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) and the Education 5.0 policy, however, a powerful solution has been hiding in plain sight: University Innovation Hubs. Across Zimbabwe, universities are now home to some of the most advanced creative and industrial technologies in Southern Africa. Crucially, these facilities are not reserved for students only. They are part of a national push to commercialise ideas, support industry, and grow jobs. Mapping Zimbabwe’s Innovation Hubs for Creatives Universities are no longer just academic spaces; they are evolving into production engines. Here is where creatives can plug in: Midlands State University – Gweru: A stronghold for film, music, and audio production. The industrial hub hosts professional recording studios and post-production suites suitable for documentaries, albums, and broadcast-ready content. University of Zimbabwe – Harare: Known for advanced media, GIS, and digital design laboratories. Ideal for creatives working with data-driven storytelling, digital publishing, or complex visualisation. Chinhoyi University of Technology – Chinhoyi: A hotspot for 3D printing, fashion technology, and product design. Designers can transform sketches into physical prototypes within hours instead of months. National University of Science and Technology – Bulawayo: Leading in virtual reality (VR), software, and app development. A strategic space for creatives exploring immersive storytelling, gaming, or the emerging metaverse economy. How to Access the Technology (Even If You’re Not a Student) A common myth is that university hubs are “off limits” to outsiders. Under NDS2, the opposite is true. These hubs are mandated to build industry–academia partnerships. Here’s how creatives can engage effectively: Get Formalised. Universities prefer dealing with registered entities. A Private Business Corporation (PBC), trust, or company signals seriousness and reduces administrative friction. Pitch a Specific Project. Don’t ask to “use equipment.” Present a clear proposal: “I am producing a heritage documentary aligned with national cultural objectives and would like to partner with your hub for editing and sound design.” Clarify Intellectual Property (IP). Always confirm ownership of the final work. Most hubs allow creators to retain IP, provided there is a subsidised user fee, revenue-share model, or institutional credit. Why This Matters for Zimbabwean Creatives The shift from theory to production is at the heart of Education 5.0. Innovation hubs exist to commercialise creativity, reduce startup costs, and connect talent to markets. For artists, this means access to tools that meet global standards without incurring crippling debt. The “starving artist” narrative is increasingly outdated. The resources are there from Harare’s campus labs to Chinhoyi’s fabrication rooms. What’s missing is awareness and confidence to engage these institutions as partners, not gatekeepers. The Bottom Line Stop saving endlessly for gear you may never afford. Start partnering strategically with innovation hubs that already have it. Zimbabwe’s creative economy will not be built from bedrooms alone, but from collaborations that turn ideas into export-ready products. The tools are waiting. The hubs are open. The only question left is whether you will knock. Zimbabwe innovation hubs; university technology Zimbabwe; NDS2 creative economy; Education 5.0 innovation hubs

ZESA POWER LINES Bulawayo —  The Bulawayo High Court has ordered state‑run ZESA Holdings to pay more than US$60,000 in compensation to two minors who sustained serious electrical burns after coming into contact with low‑hanging power cables, finding that the utility’s subsidiary acted with gross negligence. Court rulings and awarded damages Two judges, Justice Evangelista Kabasa and Justice Dube, delivered separate rulings in favour of the injured children, both from Mangwe in Matabeleland South. The cases were brought with legal assistance from Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR). On 15 January 2026, Justice Dube ordered the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) — a ZESA subsidiary — to pay US$50,000 in damages to the family of an 11‑year‑old who was electrocuted on 18 May 2022 after encountering dangerously low‑hanging cables. The court gave ZETDC two months to settle the award. In a separate matter, Justice Kabasa on 22 January 2026 directed ZETDC to pay US$16,000 to the family of a 14‑year‑old who suffered severe burns and required surgery. The minor was initially treated at St Anne’s Hospital in Brunapeg before transfer to United Bulawayo Hospitals, where he underwent an operation and was assessed with a 32% disability. Together, the awards total US$66,000, reflecting the court’s finding that ZETDC’s failure to maintain safe infrastructure amounted to gross negligence. Legal process and ZETDC response Summons for the 11‑year‑old’s case were filed on 14 August 2024, with ZETDC denying liability on 16 September 2024, arguing the claim was excessive. For the 14‑year‑old, summons were filed on 8 August 2024; ZETDC initially denied responsibility but later offered US$16,000, citing insurance limits. The family accepted that offer, which was formalised by the court order. ZLHR represented both minors, framing the litigation as part of its broader anti‑impunity work aimed at holding state institutions accountable for human rights violations and negligence. Human rights group perspective and precedent ZLHR said the cases form part of a long history of litigation against ZESA and its subsidiaries, noting the organisation has successfully secured damages for victims of electrical accidents in previous matters. The group emphasised that court‑ordered compensation serves both to redress individual harm and to deter future negligence by public utilities. Implications for public safety and utility management Legal observers say the rulings underscore the importance of routine maintenance, proper line clearance, and robust safety protocols for power utilities. The judgments may prompt ZESA and ZETDC to accelerate infrastructure inspections, improve community reporting mechanisms for hazardous lines, and review insurance and liability frameworks to ensure victims receive timely redress.   ZESA compensation minors electrical burns

CCC Chief Whip Charles Moyo Several Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) legislators have publicly denied assertions by their Chief Whip, Charles Moyo, that they endorsed Zanu‑PF’s proposed constitutional amendments to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term to 2030. Moyo issued a statement suggesting that many CCC MPs supported Constitutional Amendment No. 3. Still, a group of opposition lawmakers, Maggie Chakabuda, Tendekai Matara, Happymore Bvondo, Richard Tsvangirai, and Chalton Hwende, have refuted the claim, accusing Moyo of publishing false resolutions. Background to the dispute On 12 February, Sengezo Tshabangu, a prominent advocate for the 2030 agenda, released a statement through Chief Whip Moyo indicating that his faction of the CCC backed the amendment. The release followed a meeting at Parliament attended by several opposition MPs. The statement provoked immediate backlash. Some MPs who attended the meeting later apologised, saying they had believed the gathering was a routine parliamentary caucus meeting focused on parliamentary business rather than an endorsement of the 2030 agenda. Many described their attendance as a mistake. Individual responses from MPs Maggie Chakabuda, Masvingo Senator, said she attended without realising the meeting was aligned to Tshabangu’s faction. She apologised via WhatsApp, said she made no contributions to the statement, and reaffirmed her loyalty to party leader Nelson Chamisa. Tendekai Matara, Masvingo proportional representative MP, said she attended as part of normal caucus duties and did not endorse any constitutional amendment. She described claims that MPs supported the 2030 agenda as “drama” manufactured by the author of the resolutions. Happymore Bvondo Chidziva told a colleague in Australia that Moyo’s resolutions were false and that MPs had agreed not to debate an amendment that had not been gazetted. Chalton Hwende posted on X that although he attended the meeting, no resolutions were passed in support of Constitutional Amendment No. 3. Richard Tsvangirai issued statements on WhatsApp and other platforms confirming his attendance but rejecting any suggestion that he supported the 2030 agenda. Wider opposition response The five MPs join 31 other CCC legislators who refused to attend Tshabangu’s meetings on the matter, bringing the total number of opposition MPs publicly opposing the 2030 agenda and Constitutional Amendment No. 3 to 35. Party sources say the wider group remains committed to the party’s official position and to Nelson Chamisa’s leadership. Political implications The episode highlights internal tensions within the CCC and the sensitivity surrounding proposals to alter the constitutional timetable. Opposition leaders have emphasised party unity and repudiated any unauthorised endorsements of amendments that would extend the presidential and parliamentary terms. CCC MPs; Chief Whip; backed Zanu‑PF constitutional amendments 2030

Tobacco bales at Harare auction floors As Zimbabwe prepares to officially open the 2026 tobacco marketing season on March 4, growers are calling on authorities to review the country’s 70:30 foreign currency retention policy, arguing that the current framework is squeezing profitability. Under the policy, farmers receive 70% of their tobacco sales earnings in U.S. dollars and 30% in local currency (ZiG). However, growers say most production inputs, including fertilisers, chemicals, fuel, and equipment, are priced in U.S. dollars, making the ZiG portion less valuable in real terms. Farmers Demand Alignment With Production Costs Zimbabwe Tobacco Growers Association chairman George Seremwe said farmers are fully prepared for the new selling season but want payment structures aligned with input costs. He noted that without reforms to the retention policy, growers risk losing a significant portion of their earnings due to exchange rate disparities and the dominance of U.S. dollar-denominated expenses. Similarly, Tobacco Farmers Union Trust president Edward Dune stressed that fertilisers and other critical inputs are largely sold in foreign currency, effectively reducing the value of the 30% paid in ZiG. TIMB Confirms Market Readiness The 2026 marketing season will be overseen by the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB), which has announced comprehensive preparations for the new cycle. TIMB confirmed it has licensed 48 contractors and 46 Class A buyers for the 2025/26 season. Three auction floors will operate this year: Tobacco Sales Floor Premier Tobacco Auction Floors Ethical Sales Floor Authorities have also intensified efforts to curb side marketing and unregistered buyers accused of offering below-market prices. Farmer organisations, including the Zimbabwe National Farmers Union, are urging growers to sell exclusively through formal channels to guarantee fair pricing and secure payments. Production Outlook Remains Strong The marketing season will coincide with the rollout of the Tobacco Value Chain Transformation Plan 2, a strategic blueprint aimed at boosting annual tobacco output to 500 million kilogrammes by 2030. More than 400 million kilogrammes are expected to be delivered this year, supported by a 15% increase in planted hectarage. Zimbabwe currently has 113,327 registered tobacco growers, reflecting sustained participation in the sector. Officials remain optimistic about the 2026 crop, citing favourable weather conditions and expanded production capacity. The strong output is expected to reinforce Zimbabwe’s status as Africa’s leading tobacco producer and one of the world’s top exporters of flue-cured tobacco. Zimbabwe; tobacco farmers; review; auction floor; forex policy

120mm x 4‑core armoured cable HARARE —  The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) have confirmed the arrest and conviction of John Sande (29) for contravening Section 60(A) of the Electricity Act (Chapter 13:19) after he was found in possession of stolen underground copper cable in Msasa. Incident and arrest According to a ZRP press statement dated 17 February 2026, Sande and two accomplices — identified as Youngman Mutadza (NFPK) and Gama (NFPK), who remain at large — were observed digging up underground copper cables on Zimunhu Road, Msasa, at about 2200 hours on 7 February 2026. Security personnel in the area responded to suspicious activity and apprehended Sande, recovering 1.5 metres of 120mm x 4‑core armoured cable from his possession. The matter was referred to the CID Minerals, Flora and Fauna Unit for further investigation, the statement said. Linked offences Police investigations have linked the trio to three additional incidents of vandalism targeting underground copper cables across Harare: 15 January 2026 — Old Tafara Shops: The suspects allegedly cut and stole 5 metres of 120mm x 4‑core underground copper cable. 20 January 2026 — Mabvuku school: The group reportedly removed 3 metres of the same cable type from school premises. 28 January 2026 — Tynwald: A further 2.5 metres of 120mm x 4‑core underground cable was allegedly cut and stolen. These incidents form part of a pattern of attacks on public utilities and infrastructure, police said. Court outcome and ongoing manhunt Sande appeared before Regional Magistrate Donald Ndirowei on 11 February 2026, represented by State prosecutor Ms Cecilia Mashingaidze. He was convicted and sentenced to 30 years’ imprisonment. The ZRP said detectives are actively pursuing the outstanding suspects. Detective Inspector Muteweri R, Provincial Community Relations Liaison Officer for the Criminal Investigation Department, signed off on the press release. Public safety and infrastructure protection The ZRP statement underscores the risks posed by theft and vandalism of electrical infrastructure, which can endanger lives, disrupt services, and impose heavy repair costs on utilities and communities. Authorities urged the public to report suspicious activity around power lines and underground installations to assist ongoing investigations. ZRP; copper cable theft; conviction 2026; Sande

Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights Harare – The Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights (ZADHR) has thrown its support behind Clause 11 of the Medical Services Amendment Bill, a key provision designed to broaden access to safe and regulated abortion services in Zimbabwe. Currently, abortion in Zimbabwe is permitted only under limited circumstances, including when a pregnancy endangers a woman’s life, in cases of severe foetal abnormalities, or when it results from rape or incest. Clause 11 seeks to expand access within regulated medical settings, aligning existing legislation with constitutional protections and modern public health standards. In a statement issued on 12 February 2026, ZADHR described the clause as a “significant step towards safeguarding women’s health and rights.” “ZADHR supports the inclusion of Clause 11 within the Medical Services Amendment Bill, 2024.This significant step aligns with Section 76 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, which enshrines the right to healthcare, as well as Sections 48, 51 and 52, which protect the rights to life, dignity and bodily integrity,” the organisation said. Updating an Outdated Law ZADHR noted that Clause 11 would effectively modernise the Termination of Pregnancy Act of 1977, which it considers outdated and inadequate in addressing current public health realities. According to the association, the proposed reforms would: Expand access to abortion services in regulated health facilities Reduce procedural and bureaucratic barriers Strengthen informed consent requirements Prevent women and girls from resorting to unsafe, clandestine abortions The organisation argues that restrictive legal frameworks do not eliminate abortions but instead increase health risks. Maternal Mortality Concerns ZADHR highlighted Zimbabwe’s ongoing maternal health challenges. The 2023–2024 Zimbabwe Demographic and Health Survey estimates the maternal mortality ratio at 212 deaths per 100,000 live births. Although this reflects progress, the group says the figure remains unacceptably high. Unsafe abortion is estimated to contribute to approximately 16 percent of maternal deaths nationwide. Citing research from the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) and the Guttmacher Institute, ZADHR stated that between 65,000 and 80,000 induced abortions occur in Zimbabwe annually. Of these, around 25,000 women require hospital treatment for complications resulting from unsafe procedures. The association also referenced findings from the World Health Organization, which consistently show that restrictive abortion laws do not reduce abortion rates but instead drive women toward unsafe methods. Evidence-Based Reform ZADHR maintains that Clause 11 represents a constitutionally sound, evidence-based reform that could significantly reduce preventable maternal deaths. “ZADHR firmly believes that the Medical Services Amendment Bill represents a constitutionally sound and evidence-based reform that will directly lead to a reduction in preventable maternal mortality, protect women and girls from life-threatening complications, bolster informed medical practice, and ultimately align Zimbabwe’s health framework with international best practices and human rights standards,” the statement concluded. ZADHR Supports Clause 11; Expand Safe Abortion Access; Zimbabwe

Harare Town House  — Harare rates discount announcement The City of Harare has extended its municipal rates discount period to 7 March 2026, giving households and businesses extra time to settle accounts while benefiting from reduced charges. The extension is part of the city’s revenue‑mobilisation strategy to fund service delivery, infrastructure rehabilitation, and digital projects under the “Harare, A Smart City of Choice by 2030” initiative. Extension details and payment options Town Clerk Engineer Phakamile Moyo announced the deadline extension in an official statement, urging ratepayers to use the additional window to clear outstanding balances. The municipality accepts payments through multiple channels: Bank deposits into designated municipal accounts Mobile money platforms, including EcoCash and OneWallet Online payments via the City’s payment portal Residents can check their account balances using the City’s automated systems and request bills by email. Purpose and expected benefits The extended discount period aims to: Boost revenue collection to finance essential municipal services and capital works Reduce arrears by making payments more convenient and accessible Support the Smart City agenda by generating funds for digitalisation and infrastructure upgrades “Let us continue to support the ‘Harare, A Smart City of Choice by 2030’ vision by paying our bills and rates,” Eng Moyo said, urging collective participation to accelerate planned improvements. What ratepayers should know The discounted rates apply only until 7 March 2026; payments made after that date will be charged at standard rates and may attract penalties. Multiple payment channels are available to suit different preferences and capabilities. Ratepayers with billing queries or who need assistance can contact the City’s customer service or use the automated balance‑check tools. Business intelligence perspective From a fiscal management viewpoint, the extension is a pragmatic short‑term measure to shore up municipal finances while longer‑term revenue reforms are implemented. Improved collections will help stabilise service delivery and create fiscal space for the digital investments that underpin the Smart City strategy. Harare rates discount March 2026

Honda Vezel vehicle model Harare  – A Christ Embassy-affiliated pastor, 42 years old, has appeared before a Harare magistrate facing allegations of defrauding a workmate of US$7 200 in a botched vehicle import deal. Kudakwashe Singizi was arraigned on fraud charges. The complainant in the matter is Mukanhairi Ropafadzo. Although the two are not related, the court heard that they were operating from the same shop at the time the alleged offence occurred. Prosecutor Mr. Takudzwa Mutyavaviri told the court that on July 16, 2025, at Shasha Mall located at the corner of Kwame Nkrumah Avenue and Leopold Takawira Street in Harare, Singizi allegedly misrepresented to the complainant that he was an authorised agent of BE FORWARD and could facilitate the purchase and importation of a vehicle on her behalf. Alleged Misrepresentation According to the State, Ropafadzo expressed interest in purchasing a Honda Vezel. The court heard that Singizi conducted calculations and advised her that US$7 200 would be required to cover the costs of importing and delivering the vehicle to Zimbabwe. It is alleged that Ropafadzo handed over the full amount in cash, after which Singizi undertook to deliver the vehicle within three months. However, when the agreed period elapsed, the vehicle had not been delivered. Evasive Responses and Police Report The court heard that Ropafadzo demanded delivery of the vehicle, but Singizi allegedly became evasive and provided inconsistent explanations regarding the delay. The accused is further alleged to have promised to refund the money but failed to do so. Following unsuccessful attempts to recover the funds, the complainant reported the matter to the police, leading to investigations and Singizi’s subsequent arrest. Prosecutors told the court that the complainant suffered financial prejudice amounting to US$7 200. To date, none of the money has reportedly been recovered. Case Remanded The matter was remanded to a later date for continuation of proceedings. The court is expected to hear further evidence as the case progresses. Christ Embassy Pastor; in Court; US$7 200; Fraud Allegations