Lupane State University By Staff Reporter The Environmental Management Agency (EMA), in partnership with Lupane State University, has launched a community‑based research initiative to tackle the poisonous plant Dichapetalum cymosum,  locally known as Umkhawuzane, after farmers reported significant livestock losses linked to the species. The programme, carried out in Ward 18 (Makhovula), Lupane District, and Ward 10, Umguza District, combines farmer education with practical trials of mechanical and chemical control methods to develop locally appropriate strategies for reducing animal deaths and protecting rangeland health. Umkhawuzane contains fluoroacetate, a potent toxin that causes sudden death in grazing animals and poses risks of secondary poisoning through the food chain. EMA estimates that the plant accounts for roughly 8 percent of livestock fatalities attributed to toxic flora in the region. During community engagements, farmers told researchers they typically lose three to four animals per household each winter, a period when Umkhawuzane remains green while other forage is scarce and animals are more likely to ingest the plant. EMA Environmental Education and Publicity Manager Amkela Sidange said the joint study emphasised hands‑on involvement by local communities. “We combined sensitisation with practical trials so farmers could see and participate in control methods,” she said. The mechanical approach involved excavating plants and removing roots to depths of one to 1.5 metres, a method that produced encouraging results in trial plots with no signs of regeneration after removal. By contrast, trials using glyphosate showed only temporary suppression of Umkhawuzane and carried the drawback of harming surrounding vegetation. Researchers warned that indiscriminate chemical use can degrade pasture quality and reduce biodiversity, undermining long‑term rangeland resilience. The findings point to the need for integrated, site‑specific management that combines effective mechanical removal, cautious and targeted chemical application where appropriate, and sustained community education. The initiative also seeks to strengthen local capacity for early detection and rapid response. EMA and Lupane State University plan to train community focal persons to identify outbreaks, coordinate removal efforts, and report occurrences promptly to authorities. These measures aim to reduce immediate livestock losses and to build a longer‑term framework for rangeland rehabilitation, including erosion control and reseeding of native forage species where removal activities have disturbed the soil. Stakeholders welcomed the collaborative approach, noting that farmer participation increases the likelihood of sustained adoption. The project aligns with EMA’s broader emphasis on community‑driven solutions and interdisciplinary research, bringing together ecologists, extension officers, and local knowledge holders to design practical interventions. As Matabeleland North continues to grapple with the ecological and economic impacts of toxic plants, EMA urged vigilance and timely reporting of outbreaks. The agency stressed that protecting livestock and biodiversity will require coordinated action among farmers, traditional leaders, academic partners, and government agencies to ensure that control measures are effective, environmentally responsible, and sustainable.

Marvelous Nakamba By Staff Reporter Marvelous Nakamba, captain of the Zimbabwe national team, could be on the verge of a career reset as reports link the defensive midfielder with a move to Sheffield Wednesday. The 32‑year‑old has struggled for game time at Luton Town, and a switch to Hillsborough would offer the regular football he needs to regain form and match fitness. Nakamba’s trajectory has been affected by injuries and managerial changes. Once a key figure in Luton’s rise to the Premier League, recurring knee problems and the arrival of new manager Jack Wilshere have seen him fall down the pecking order. This season, his appearances have been limited to cup outings and a single substitute league cameo, leaving the midfielder eager for minutes that could also preserve his standing with the national team. Sheffield Wednesday, mired at the foot of the Championship and grappling with points deductions and administration, is searching for experienced heads to steady a young squad. The club’s precarious position has not stopped manager Henrik Pedersen from pursuing reinforcements, and Nakamba’s leadership, physical presence, and top‑flight experience make him an attractive target. Reports suggest two possible routes: a loan from Luton or a free‑agent signing should Nakamba and the Hatters agree on a mutual contract termination. With six months left on his deal, a negotiated exit would free him to sign for any club before the deadline. A move to Wednesday would also reunite Nakamba with compatriot Sean Fusire, offering a familiar face in the dressing room that could ease his transition. For Nakamba, the switch would be a pragmatic step: a platform to play regularly, showcase his fitness and leadership, and potentially reignite his career. For Wednesday, acquiring a player of Nakamba’s pedigree could provide much‑needed stability in midfield and a role model for younger teammates. There are caveats. Nakamba must demonstrate fitness and form, and any transfer would need to align with Wednesday’s financial constraints. Additionally, the midfielder’s preference for long‑term stability may influence whether he opts for a short‑term loan or a permanent move. If the deal materialises, it would be a mutually beneficial arrangement: Nakamba gains a chance to rebuild his career in a competitive environment, while Sheffield Wednesday secure an experienced professional capable of guiding a club through a difficult period. For the Zimbabwe captain, the move could mark the start of a late‑career renaissance a final chapter defined by leadership, resilience and a return to consistent football.

Prophet Walter Magaya By Staff Reporter The trial of Walter Magaya, leader of Prophetic Healing and Deliverance Ministries, on new rape charges is scheduled to run from 16 to 19 February, and is expected to attract intense public attention. Magaya, currently in detention, faces multiple allegations of sexual coercion, abuse, and rape spanning several years. The charges, if proven, would deepen scrutiny of conduct within high‑profile religious organisations and raise questions about the protection of vulnerable congregants. Prosecutors allege incidents occurred between 2016 and 2023 and involve a range of circumstances, including alleged assaults at hotels and private residences during meetings framed as prayer sessions, Bible studies, or job offers. Specific counts cited in court papers include allegations that a 24‑year‑old church worker was raped at a hotel in 2020 under the pretext of a Bible study, and that a 22‑year‑old woman was allegedly assaulted in 2023 in a hotel presidential suite during prayers. Other complainants have described encounters at private homes and at events where spiritual intervention was promised. The new charges follow a history of controversy surrounding Magaya. Earlier allegations, including a 2016 rape charge, were withdrawn amid claims of intimidation and alleged interference. In 2019, the Zimbabwe Gender Commission urged prosecution over separate complaints, and Magaya has previously faced fraud convictions and other legal challenges. He and his wife are also jointly charged with multiple counts of fraud related to a housing scheme, with that trial set for March. Insiders and former members say the forthcoming proceedings could expose broader patterns of exploitation within the ministry, alleging that spiritual authority was used to coerce women and to extract financial or sexual favours. Some sources suggest that a collapse in the ministry’s patronage networks and financial pressures have weakened protective shields that previously insulated the leader from accountability. The State has opposed bail for Magaya, citing the seriousness of the allegations, the risk of flight, and the potential for witness interference. Legal observers note that the prosecution will need to present corroborative evidence, including medical reports, witness testimony, and communications, to meet the criminal standard of proof. Defence teams are likely to challenge credibility, consent, and the chain of evidence. Beyond the courtroom, the trial has broader social implications. It is likely to reignite public debate about the limits of religious authority, the responsibilities of faith leaders, and the mechanisms available to protect congregants. Civil society groups and victims’ advocates have called for transparent, victim‑centred processes and for robust witness protection measures to ensure complainants can testify without fear. As the case proceeds, stakeholders will watch how the justice system balances due process with the need to address allegations of abuse by influential figures. The outcome may influence public confidence in both religious institutions and state institutions charged with investigating and prosecuting sexual offences.

Jabulani Sibanda By Staff Reporter Zanu‑PF Bulawayo Provincial Chairman Jabulani Sibanda has lauded Zambia’s historic role in Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and highlighted the deep cultural and religious ties that continue to bind the two countries. Speaking at the Council for Churches in Africa (CCA) 2026 Culture of Purity theme launch in Bulawayo, Sibanda framed Zambia as a steadfast partner whose hospitality and logistical support were instrumental to Zimbabwe’s fight for independence. Sibanda recalled how Zambia provided sanctuary, supplies and safe passage to freedom fighters during the colonial era, arguing that any account of Zimbabwe’s liberation is incomplete without acknowledging Zambia’s contributions. He described the relationship between the two nations as extending beyond diplomatic ties into shared cultural practices and religious fellowship, noting that indigenous churches on both sides of the border play a role in promoting morality, unity and community development. “The foundation and liberation of Zimbabwe cannot be discussed without mentioning Zambia,” Sibanda said, emphasising that cross‑border church networks have helped sustain social cohesion and moral values. He framed the CCA’s Culture of Purity theme as part of a broader effort to safeguard African cultural heritage and to resist moral erosion in the face of modern pressures. Archbishop Dr Rocky Moyo, founder president of the CCA, used the platform to call on church leaders across Africa to partner more closely with governments in promoting sustainable development and national identity. He urged religious institutions to be active agents in combating immorality and cultural decline, arguing that faith communities have a responsibility to nurture ethical behaviour and social justice while respecting state institutions. The event also featured remarks from Bishop Dr Brian Kalikiti, president of the CCA’s Zambian chapter, who praised Zimbabwe’s non‑discriminatory policies that, he said, enable churches to operate freely and contribute to social and economic life. Kalikiti highlighted the ease of worship and the favourable environment for faith‑based organisations, crediting policy stability for fostering peace and facilitating cross‑border religious collaboration. Organisers framed the launch as both a celebration of shared history and a call to action. Delegates discussed practical steps for strengthening church‑government partnerships, including community outreach, moral education programmes and joint initiatives to address social ills such as substance abuse and family breakdown. The emphasis on Ubuntu and communal responsibility resonated throughout the programme, reflecting a desire to root development efforts in local cultural values. Observers noted that the event underscored the enduring legacy of regional solidarity forged during the liberation era and the continuing relevance of faith networks in shaping civic life. By foregrounding cultural preservation alongside development goals, the CCA and its partners signalled a commitment to harnessing religious influence for social cohesion and moral renewal across southern Africa.

NetOne By Staff Reporter The Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ) has formally engaged mobile operator NetOne following a surge in consumer complaints about the structure, packaging, and disclosure of off‑peak data bundles. The CCZ said persistent confusion among subscribers, particularly over how off‑peak allocations are presented in advertising and billing, prompted a meeting aimed at improving clarity, fairness, and value for money in the telecommunications market. Consumers have reported that off‑peak data is often bundled into headline offers without clear separation from core anytime data, only to discover later that portions of their purchased volume are conditional or time‑restricted. The CCZ’s position is straightforward: advertising should distinguish core anytime data from off‑peak or promotional data, and any conditional allocations should be clearly labelled and excluded from headline totals. The council argued that presenting promotional data as part of the main bundle misleads customers and undermines informed choice. At the meeting, CCZ representatives pressed NetOne on product packaging, marketing language, and point‑of‑sale disclosures. The council recommended that off‑peak data be shown as an add‑on where applicable, with explicit time windows, expiry rules, and usage restrictions clearly communicated. It also urged the operator to simplify terms so that ordinary consumers can readily understand what they are buying and how to use it. NetOne acknowledged the concerns and said it had already initiated internal reviews and adjustments to its off‑peak offerings in response to customer feedback. The operator told CCZ that the proposed changes are pending approval from the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) before they can be rolled out. NetOne reiterated its commitment to aligning products with regulatory expectations and to improving customer communications. The CCZ described the engagement as constructive and said it would continue to monitor progress, liaise with POTRAZ, and keep consumers informed. The council emphasised that clearer product labelling and transparent advertising are essential in a market where mobile data is a critical service for education, commerce, and social connection. Consumer advocates welcomed the dialogue but warned that voluntary adjustments must be backed by enforceable standards. They called on POTRAZ to issue guidance or rules that require operators to separate promotional allocations from headline bundles and to standardise disclosure formats across providers. Such measures, they argued, would reduce disputes, improve competition on service quality rather than marketing complexity, and protect vulnerable consumers from unexpected charges or unusable data. The NetOne‑CCZ engagement signals growing regulatory and consumer pressure on telecom operators to prioritise transparency. As Zimbabwe’s digital economy expands, stakeholders say clear, fair product design and honest communication will be central to building consumer trust and ensuring that mobile connectivity delivers real value.

Upper Ncema Dam By Staff Reporter Bulawayo’s long‑running water shortages have persisted despite a relatively strong 2025–26 rainy season, with city officials warning that unexpectedly low inflows into supply dams now threaten the city’s water security. A Bulawayo City Council inspection of three key reservoirs, Upper Ncema, Inyankuni, and Mzingwane, revealed extensive mining activity in dam catchment areas in Matabeleland South, which council engineers say is disrupting natural runoff and reducing the volume reaching the city’s storage systems. The inspection, attended by councillors, engineers, media, and other stakeholders, found active excavation sites and heavy‑duty water bowsers operating close to reservoir margins. Council engineers say those operations are diverting water, increasing sedimentation, and altering natural drainage patterns. Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart has repeatedly warned that unregulated mining in catchment areas undermines long‑term water security and called for urgent multi‑stakeholder action to protect the city’s sources. Council figures show that as of 31 January 2026, Bulawayo’s operational dams were only 48.35% full, a level officials describe as inconsistent with the season’s rainfall. Sikhumbuzo Ncube, BCC Director of Engineering Services, said the situation is “dire,” noting that similar rainfall in 2017–18 left dams at roughly 70% capacity by the same point in the season. “Now, despite the good rains, the dam levels are not looking good at all,” he said, adding that Upper Ncema, the city’s most critical reserve, was only 40% full. The shortfall has direct consequences for residents. Bulawayo remains on a 96‑hour water‑shedding schedule, with some suburbs experiencing up to four days without supply. Councillor Khalazani Ndlovu, chair of the council’s Future Water Committee, warned that easing shedding now could exhaust reserves before the next rainy season. “If we reduce the shedding hours now, we may fail to make it to the next rainy season,” he said. Officials emphasise that addressing the problem will require coordinated action involving local government, mining operators, environmental authorities, and affected communities. Proposed measures include stricter enforcement of catchment protection rules, rehabilitation of degraded areas, sediment control works, and improved monitoring of water abstraction by mining interests. Engineers also called for an urgent audit of all activities within critical catchment zones and for the Ministry of Environment to lead a cross‑sector task force. Community groups and environmental advocates say the crisis highlights broader governance gaps: weak regulation, limited enforcement capacity, and competing economic pressures that prioritise short‑term extraction over long‑term resource stewardship. They argue that sustainable solutions must balance livelihoods with the public good, including clearer licensing conditions for mining and incentives for rehabilitation. For Bulawayo, the immediate challenge is operational, maintain supply to households and essential services while protecting the remaining storage. For the longer term, the city faces a policy choice, allow catchment degradation to continue and accept recurring shortages, or enforce protective measures now to secure water for future generations.

Tobacco Farm By Staff Reporter Zimbabwe’s tobacco industry is bracing for a potentially record harvest after farmers planted 162,625 hectares this season and agronomists reported exceptional crop development at the pre‑harvest stage. Industry sources say higher seed sales, expanded hectarage, and favourable weather to date point to a national crop that could surpass 400 million kilograms, a threshold that would mark one of the strongest production years in recent memory. A senior agronomist with a leading merchant company, speaking on condition of anonymity, said field assessments across Mashonaland West and parts of Mashonaland Central revealed uniformly healthy stands and vigorous leaf growth. “We can confidently say that this year’s crop is the most impressive we have seen in this region at the pre‑harvest stage,” the agronomist said, while cautioning that heavy rains could still affect outcomes through leaching and waterlogging. Regional planting patterns show a marked shift in production geography. As of 9 January 2026, Mashonaland West led with 51,117 hectare a 43 percent increase from the previous season, followed by Mashonaland Central with 49,256 hectares and Mashonaland East with 31,417 hectares (a 40 percent rise). Manicaland recorded 30,133 hectares, Midlands 544 hectares, Masvingo 118 hectares, and Matebeleland North a modest 40 hectares. Market participants are upbeat about the supply outlook but warn of the economic risks of oversupply. “We are heading for a surplus year and an oversupply of tobacco serves no one’s interests,” the anonymous agronomist said. The concern is straightforward: when supply outpaces demand, auction prices fall. Industry insiders predict that by the third quarter, after contractors recover their investments, the market could become saturated, leaving many bales unsold or rejected at auction floors. Several merchants still hold stocks from the previous season, which could compound downward price pressure. New entrants and alternative auction floors are positioning themselves to capture market share amid the expansion. Tyson Ngongoni, general manager of Ethical Sales Floor, said the company is encouraged by the crop’s performance and plans to offer competitive payment terms to attract growers. “The tobacco growth will boost our entrance into the market,” Ngongoni said, adding that their payment plan will be central to service delivery. Grower organisations emphasise resilience and inclusion. George Seremwe, president of the Zimbabwe Tobacco Growers Association, applauded farmers’ efforts and said the expanded hectarage signals confidence in the sector. He outlined priorities for the season: improved yields, greater inclusion of small‑scale growers, lower input costs, and fairer contract terms. Export prospects remain strong, with China continuing to be a major buyer. Yet the sector’s immediate challenge is balancing production gains with market absorption. Policymakers, merchants, and grower associations will need to coordinate on marketing strategies, stock management, and price support mechanisms to prevent a glut that could erode incomes across the value chain.

New Chicken Inn Technical Team By Staff Reporter Chicken Inn Football Club has moved decisively to deepen its technical bench and honour club loyalty by integrating former players into key backroom roles ahead of the new season. The club’s recent appointments blend playing experience with technical expertise, signalling a strategic push to align coaching, performance analysis, and player welfare under a cohesive structure. At the centre of the reshuffle is Tafadzwa Kutinyu, a former GameCocks midfielder who played for Tanzanian side Singida before a career‑ending injury. Kutinyu has been appointed performance analyst for the senior team, a role he transitioned into after undertaking data and performance training in 2024. His appointment reflects a growing trend in Zimbabwean football where ex‑players move into analytics and sports science roles to extend their careers off the pitch. The club has also bolstered its developmental pathway by naming Guide Goddard head coach of the developmental side competing in the ZIFA Bulawayo Province Division Two League. Goddard, a former Chicken Inn captain and last season’s second assistant to Joey Antipas, will be supported by ex‑club defender Ben Nyahunzvi and former skipper Danny “Deco” Phiri. The trio’s local knowledge and leadership are expected to strengthen youth development and create a clearer pipeline to the first team. Administrative and technical appointments round out the club’s restructuring. Clemence Matawu, another former captain, has been named club administrator, while the senior coaching team will be led by championship‑winning coach Tonderai Ndiraya, assisted by Naison Machekela and Fortune “Fokoza” Ncube. The club has also appointed Zvanai Kawadza as goalkeepers’ coach, replacing Energy Murambadoro, and added specialists, including Lennon Gwara (masseur), Webster Chadzamire (physiotherapist), Tendai Chituwa (conditioning coach), and Tatenda Munyaradzi (data analyst and team manager). Secretary‑general Tavengwa Hara framed the appointments as part of a broader effort to meet FIFA club licensing requirements while rewarding loyalty. “These players have been loyal to the club and deserve to be rewarded,” Hara said, emphasising the club’s commitment to developing young talent and institutional capacity. He described the new hires as the “backbone of our future ambitions,” underscoring a dual focus on heritage and professionalisation. The club’s strategy aims to combine institutional memory with modern coaching methods. By embedding former players in technical and administrative roles, Chicken Inn seeks to preserve club culture while upgrading performance systems. The presence of a dedicated data analyst and conditioning coach indicates a shift toward evidence‑based training and injury prevention, areas that have become essential in competitive leagues. For supporters, the appointments offer continuity and hope. The blend of experienced coaches and homegrown talent is designed to stabilise performance and nurture the next generation of players. As the season approaches, Chicken Inn’s restructured technical team will be judged on its ability to translate these changes into consistent results on the pitch and a sustainable development model off it.

Andrew Makahamadze By Talent Chimutambgi   What was meant to be a new beginning at Eirene Farm in Marondera in Mashonaland East slowly mutated into a bitter test of endurance, patience, and neighbourliness. The soil that promised renewal to displaced farmers instead became the stage upon which old wounds were reopened and fresh divisions carved, not by ploughs but by disputed boundaries. For years, these farmers had shared a common story of loss and relocation. Around 2016, they had been resettled by the government after being displaced from their initial farms in Meyer Estate to pave the way for the clearance of the Feruka pipeline. Their shared predicament should have bound them together in solidarity. Ironically, it did the opposite when new challenges emerged, ushering in a quiet but corrosive divide-and-rule dynamic that threatened to tear the community apart. The dispute that ignited the slow-burning fire centred on alleged boundary encroachments between Mr George Shambira and Mr Chega Mvududu. What began as a disagreement between two neighbours soon escalated beyond fence lines and field markers, drawing in institutions and hardening attitudes. The matter found its way to the Zimbabwe Lands Commission (ZLC) and later spilled into the courts of law. With every referral and counter-claim, the once-united farmers of Eirene Farm retreated into camps of suspicion, their fractures and fissures widening by the day. Conversations grew guarded, meetings tense, and the sense of community thinned like mist under a harsh sun. As tempers simmered and mistrust calcified, it became clear that technical processes alone would not douse the flames. What Eirene Farm required was not merely a ruling, but an honest broker someone who could lower the temperature, rebuild trust, and guide the warring parties back to a shared future. That moment arrived when the dispute reached the ears of Cde Andrew Makahamadze. Sensing the danger of a community on the brink, he saw mediation not as an option, but as an obligation. Cde Makahamadze approached the situation with the patience of a negotiator and the humility of a listener. He analysed the disputes carefully and quickly realised that the path to resolution lay in the art of negotiation rather than confrontation. The disagreements had spread beyond the original parties, touching nerves across the entire resettlement as every farmer sought to protect what they believed was rightfully theirs. When Mr Shambira, with the assistance of Cde Makahamadze, sought consent from the line Ministry to be shown his boundaries, a shiver ran through Eirene Farm. The prospect of boundary verification was interpreted by many as a threat, a precursor to loss. On the day set for engagement, a group of farmers gathered at Cde Masangomayi’s homestead, not merely as observers but as sentinels of their plots. The air was thick with expectation and apprehension. Many had come prepared to resist, convinced that their livelihoods were under siege. Violence, though unspoken, lurked at the edges of the gathering. It was a moment that could have tipped disastrously, had it not been for the tone set from the outset. Cde Makahamadze arrived with his delegation and was met by Cde Masangomayi, who held a file tightly, documents assembled to prove that he had not encroached on Mr Shambira’s land. It was a telling image: paper clutched as armour in a conflict defined by fear. When Cde Makahamadze addressed the meeting, he did so with a diplomacy that surprised many. His words did not inflame; they soothed. His mediation skills landed like a burst of unexpected rainfall, cooling and calming the smouldering fire that had threatened to burst into full flame. He spoke to the shared history of displacement, reminding the farmers of the road they had travelled together. He acknowledged fears without validating hostility, and he insisted on facts without dismissing feelings. Slowly, shoulders eased. Voices softened. What had been a crowd poised for resistance began to listen. In that space of listening, Cde Makahamadze patched up fractures, reframed the dispute, and brought the community back into one conversation. The transformation was palpable. Expectations of confrontation dissolved into relief as clarity replaced conjecture. Cde Makahamadze took everyone by surprise, not through force or decree, but through empathy anchored in principle. The implications of his intervention were stupendous in their reach. Years of bitter animosity were wiped away, the prevailing mistrust shattered, and the contentious atmosphere that had gripped Eirene Farm began to lift. In his remarks, Cde Makahamadze consistently invoked President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa’s clarion calls for peace, development, and love for one another. These were not mere slogans, but guiding principles woven into a practical mediation that prioritised coexistence and productivity over endless dispute. By grounding the process in national values of unity and progress, he elevated the conversation beyond individual plots to the broader promise of resettlement itself. By the time the meeting concluded, Eirene Farm was no longer defined by boundary lines alone, but by a renewed commitment to neighbourliness. Cde Makahamadze’s image emerged elevated that of an honest broker for peace whose steady hand had restored calm where chaos once loomed. The farmers left not as adversaries, but as custodians of a shared future, reminded that the land yields best when those who till it do so in harmony. In a season marked by uncertainty, the story of Eirene Farm stands as a testament to the power of mediation rooted in respect and vision. It is a reminder that leadership, at its finest, does not deepen furrows of division, but levels the ground upon which communities can grow together

Range Rover What is Irrational Exuberance? Have you ever wondered why companies like Johnson and Johnson, Ford Motors, and JP Morgan have managed to survive for over 200 years, long after their founders passed on? Have you ever pondered why our own African companies, such as the indigenous bus companies we were showcasing in our last conversation, ended up folding even though they had so much potential to grow? In this article, I dissect the phenomenon of irrational exuberance (IE), which stifles business growth. Irrational exuberance refers to excessive, undisciplined, or reckless spending by entrepreneurs, often driven by instant, explosive, and unexpected success, which can jeopardize business sustainability. For individuals, this IE can make you tumble from grace to grass overnight! Just look at how the heavyweight champion Mike Tyson tumbled from a net worth of over USD 400 million to becoming a bouncer at a local hotel! Or how Michael Jackson, of the ‘Thriller’ and ‘Moonwalk’ fame, would end up dying depressed and bankrupt? The Pitfalls of the Mbinga Culture? In Zimbabwe, this phenomenon is called the “mbinga culture.” Buoyed by instantaneous success, the entrepreneur, who has been practicing cautious optimism, and austerity for prosperity, suddenly embarks on illogical, unreasonable, and unnecessary lavish expenditure simply because monies are available! The entrepreneur feels that they have finally arrived and that their pockets are now boisterously deep that they can do anything with it. They go on a spending rampage. Precipitously, we start seeing preposterous wild card acquisitions, for instance, luxury possessions such as private jets, yachts, extravagant offices, jewelry, and elegant and arrogant cars, becoming a top priority! Failing to Plan is Planning to Fail The collapse of South African companies like Steinhoff (2017) and Fidentia (2006), Zimbabwean bus companies (1980s, 1990s-2000s), and indigenous Zimbabwean banks such as Trust, Royal, and Renaissance Merchant Bank (2000s), among others, can be attributed to ridiculous exuberance in several ways. The propensity for excessive leverage, taking on too much debt to finance aggressive expansion or acquisitions, has been a common causal factor. Lavish spending, where directors spend company funds on extravagance and superfluity, has been another disconcerting element. Poor corporate governance, coupled with a lack of oversight, conflicts of interest, and questionable related-party transactions, are some of the common pitfalls of African enterprises. Key Lessons for Zimbabwe Why Business Ethics and Corporate Governance Matter? Zimbabwean entrepreneurs should embrace strong corporate governance by ensuring that boards have independent directors and robust oversight. They should embrace astute financial discipline, avoid excessive debt, and prioritize sustainable growth. It ’s important to prioritize budgeting, saving, and investing wisely. Transparency is also crucial. They should maintain accurate financial reporting and accountability. As far as incentives are concerned, they should tie executive compensation to long-term organizational performance. African entrepreneurs should realize that strategic planning is key and focus on sustainable growth, not just rapid expansion. Risk Management is also central. They ought to mitigate risks and avoid ‘get-rich-quick’ schemes. Lastly, they must embrace mentorship and seek guidance from experienced entrepreneurs or advisors. The Power of Delayed Gratification Delayed gratification in business is an age-old principle dating back to the time of Tom Burgis’ book, The Richest Man in Babylon. It entails that long-term success is attained through prioritizing sustainability over short-term gains. It underscores that saving and investing wisely builds resilience and reduces financial risk to our companies. Businesses that are focused on long-term growth are often more attractive to investors. Genuine trust and goodwill are built when companies demonstrate Commitment to long-term relationships with customers, employees, stakeholders, and partners. In closing, here is food for thought: how did the likes of Henry Ford, JP Morgan, or Steve Jobs managed to keep themselves level-headed in the face of explosive success and wealth? Professor Mufaro Gunduza coaches and mentors Business Intelligence at Mount Carmel Institute (Harare), Indian School of Management (New Mumbai), and UNISA. He is the SADC Investments Advisor to Dr. Farzam Kamalabadi, Founder of Future Trends Group and Special Presidential Envoy on Business and International Relations, Government of Botswana. He has written several books, including Unleashing Blue Sky Thinking, Spotting Business Opportunities, and Big Picture Thinking (Bookboon Publishers, London & Denmark). He has just assumed the Presidency of the Southern African Chamber of Commerce. He can be contacted on WhatsApp: +263774868896 Phone: +263718925350 Email: mgunduza@yahoo.co.uk

Traditional Dance At Boma By Staff Reporter The Boma Dinner & Drum Show, in Victoria Falls, closed 2025 with its strongest performance since opening in 1992, recording a historic 80,404 dinner covers for the year, an average of roughly 220 guests per night. The milestone caps more than three decades of resilience and steady reinvention, and management says it reflects a renewed energy and a series of enhancements introduced across 2024 and 2025 that resonated strongly with both first‑time visitors and returning patrons. Africa Albida Tourism (AAT) managing director Nigel Frost described the achievement as a testament to the dedication and creativity of The Boma team. He credited the record year to consistent service delivery, refreshed programming, and operational improvements that elevated the guest experience. “This record‑breaking year is a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to the dedication, creativity, and hard work of the entire Boma team,” Frost said, noting that the restaurant’s cultural authenticity remains its defining strength. The Boma’s offering combines traditional Zimbabwean cuisine with live drumming, dance, and storytelling, packaged as an immersive cultural evening that has become a must‑do for visitors to Victoria Falls. Over the years, the venue has balanced authenticity with hospitality standards expected by international tourists, and the 2025 figures suggest that balance is paying off commercially. Management attributes growth to targeted enhancements from menu refinement and improved front‑of‑house service to refreshed entertainment segments and stronger marketing partnerships with tour operators. Part of the Victoria Falls Safari Collection, The Boma benefits from being integrated into a broader hospitality ecosystem operated by AAT. The collection includes the flagship Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, the premium Victoria Falls Safari Club, Victoria Falls Safari Suites, Lokuthula Lodges, Victoria Falls Safari Spa, and Queen Nandi Place, a conferencing facility. Located on the Safari Lodge estate just 4km from the falls, these properties create cross‑selling opportunities that help drive consistent footfall to The Boma, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Industry observers say The Boma’s success is notable in a regional context where competition for tourist spend is intense, and visitor expectations are rising. The venue’s ability to sustain high nightly covers across an entire year points to effective operational planning, strong staff engagement, and a product that continues to meet market demand. For local suppliers and performers, the uptick in business also translates into broader economic benefits, from increased demand for local produce to more performance opportunities for cultural artists. Looking ahead, AAT and The Boma plan to build on the momentum by expanding community linkages, refining guest feedback loops, and exploring new programming that deepens the cultural narrative while maintaining high service standards. For Victoria Falls, The Boma’s record year is both a commercial success and a cultural win proves that authentic experiences, when well delivered, can remain central to the destination’s appeal.

NoViolet Bulawayo By Staff Reporter The Caine Prize for African Writing celebrated its 25th anniversary with a landmark return to Zimbabwe, centring events on Bulawayo and Harare and honouring NoViolet Bulawayo with a special Best of Caine distinction for her short story Hitting Budapest. The commemorations combined public readings, in‑conversation sessions, workshops, and receptions, reaffirming the Prize’s role in spotlighting African literary talent and reconnecting the award’s legacy with Zimbabwean audiences. The programme opened on December 15 at the Mayor’s Parlour in Bulawayo, where NoViolet joined Ellah Wakatama, chair of the Caine Prize, for a public reading and discussion at Mzilikazi Library. Bulawayo mayor David Coltart received the pair, and the event drew local writers, readers, and cultural stakeholders. Over three days, the anniversary itinerary moved between Bulawayo and Harare, placing NoViolet’s work at the centre of broader reflections on storytelling, memory, and social critique in contemporary African literature. NoViolet’s Hitting Budapest, originally the 2011 Caine Prize winner, was selected as Best of Caine from the prize’s 25 years of winners. The story, narrated by a nine‑year‑old girl named Darling, follows children from the Mzilikazi township who sneak into a wealthy neighbourhood to steal guavas. Through the children’s eyes, NoViolet renders a vivid portrait of hunger, inequality, and the complexities of childhood in post‑colonial Zimbabwe. The Best of Caine accolade, chosen by a panel chaired by Nobel Laureate Abdulrazak Gurnah, recognises the story’s enduring literary power and its resonance across time and place. Events in Harare included an evening reception at the Friendship Bench Hub on December 16, which brought together publishers, writers, and cultural practitioners and featured a live performance by singer‑songwriter Raven Duchess. The anniversary programme concluded on December 17 with an intimate writers’ workshop, led by Wakatama, NoViolet, and author Petina Gappah, offering emerging writers practical guidance and mentorship. Wakatama used the platform to emphasise the Caine Prize’s mission to amplify African voices globally and to support the development of literary ecosystems on the continent. She highlighted the importance of celebrating the Prize’s milestone in Zimbabwe, arguing that homecoming events strengthen local literary communities and create opportunities for sustained engagement between writers, publishers, and readers. The Best of Caine selection and the anniversary events underscored the Prize’s influence in launching careers and shaping conversations about African writing. NoViolet’s reflection during the programme that universal human experiences such as love, death, and childhood transcend national borders resonated with audiences, and also reinforced the Prize’s commitment to stories that speak to both local specificity and global humanity. With the 26th edition announced, the Caine Prize looks to the future while honouring its past. The shortlist for the next cycle will be revealed on September 1, 2026, with entries open until February 27, 2026, as the Prize continues its work of discovering and promoting outstanding short fiction from across Africa.