Zimbabwean musicians confronted ZIMURA in a historic protest over royalties, governance and transparency, as Chief Hwenje’s fiery address symbolised growing industry unrest ( image source ) If you wandered past the Zimbabwe College of Music this past Monday, you might have thought a once-in-a-generation collaboration was loading. Trevor Dongo. Seh Calaz. Guspy Warrior. Ndunge Yuti. Chief Hwenje. All present. All serious. But there were no microphones, no soundchecks, and no hype men shouting “levels.” What filled the air instead was frustration — thick, heavy, and long overdue. I’ve covered Zimbabwe’s music industry long enough to recognise a “crisis meeting.” Usually, it’s three disgruntled musicians, a plastic chair, and a warm Fanta. Monday was different. This was not noise. This was pressure. This was the day the Zimbabwean artist finally got tired of being the only person in the music industry who doesn’t get paid. From Classroom to Confrontation What began as a meeting at the College turned into a march — not chaotic, not violent, but deliberate. Artists walked to ZIMURA offices demanding answers, not favours. They were not there to sing. They were there to audit. At the centre of the gathering stood board members Dereck Mpofu, Joseph Garakara, and Gift Amuli, men who didn’t whisper complaints — they signed their names to them. Allegations of board capture, illegal voting, questionable asset disposals, and royalty opacity were laid bare. But the real turning point came when the artists were refused entry into their own building. Instead of the board, they were met outside by Deputy Director Henry Makombe, addressing them like unruly tenants rather than shareholders. That’s when the mood shifted. When Chief Hwenje Roared Chief Hwenje doesn’t speak often. When he does, people listen. Standing among younger artists, the veteran musician unleashed what can only be described as a lion’s roar — not insults, not theatrics, but cold, factual fire. He recited figures. Asked pointed questions about collections versus distributions. Queried why artists earning airplay across the country were receiving royalties that wouldn’t cover kombi fare. Witnesses say Makombe visibly shrank. “This is not noise,” Hwenje thundered. “These are facts. This is our money. And you will answer.” There are moments in history when elders stop being ceremonial and become dangerous — dangerous to lies. This was one of them. Younger artists fell silent. Phones came out. The mood hardened. The fortress walls cracked. The Fortress of Silence Crumbles ZIMURA has long operated like a medieval stronghold: easy to feed, impossible to question. Calling the gathering “unauthorised” only deepened the insult. These artists are the owners. Calling them outsiders is like telling a farmer he needs permission to harvest his own maize. When board members abandon the boardroom and stand with artists in the street, you don’t have a communications problem — you have a legitimacy crisis. The “Goodchild” Board and Old Shadows Then there’s the current leadership — the Goodchild-led board — which many artists now openly describe as a costume change, not reform. The name whispered loudly is Albert Nyathi, a cultural giant whose long shadow still looms over the institution. Many believe the old guard never left; they simply swapped chairs. Grievances remain unresolved: the murky Avondale property sale, unanswered governance questions, and the continued tenure of an Executive Director whose legal standing has been challenged in court. These are not rumours. These are documented concerns now discussed in public, by artists with nothing left to lose. NDS2 Meets Street Reality Here’s where the grumpy old man in me clears his throat. We keep talking about NDS2 and turning the arts into an economic engine. But how do you industrialise music when the collection house behaves like a black box? You cannot build an industry on silence and intimidation. ZIMURA is supposed to be the engine room. Right now, it’s overheating, leaking oil, and refusing to open the bonnet. The Verdict Monday was historic. Artists stood together — not divided by genre or chart position. Hunger is the great unifier. You can only tell a musician to “wait for the next distribution cycle” so many times before he stops clapping politely and starts knocking on doors. Loudly. ZIMURA now faces a choice: radical transparency or terminal irrelevance. A forensic audit, real reform, and the removal of entrenched interests — or a slow fade into silence. The gloves are off. The elders have spoken. The artists are awake. And when Chief Hwenje roars, even fortresses listen. Ko dzorirazve!

Sobukhazi High pupils were sent home after a secret WhatsApp group shared explicit content, cyberbullying and risky party plans, prompting safeguarding action and calls for stronger digital supervision ( image source ) A group of pupils at Sobukhazi High School in Bulawayo have been temporarily sent home after school authorities uncovered a secret WhatsApp channel allegedly used to share explicit material, cyberbullying content and invitations to risky informal gatherings known locally as Vuzu Parties. The channel, which circulated under the name “2k Dopest Nation,” has been shut down, but its contents have provoked alarm among parents, teachers and community leaders. School sources say the group was created and administered by learners, all minors. Screenshots circulating among parents reportedly show offensive jokes, targeted mockery of classmates, online shaming and posts glorifying alcohol and drug use. Polls in the group allegedly asked members to rank classmates as the “hottest” boy, “prettiest” girl or most talked-about couple — actions that left some pupils humiliated and emotionally distressed. While no sexual acts have been reported or proven, school authorities judged the discussions and encouragement of risky gatherings to be dangerous and inappropriate for minors. ( image source ) Several parents and guardians told the school that many implicated learners live in households where parents are abroad, leaving children in the care of elderly relatives or guardians. “Most of these kids stay alone or with grandparents. Phones are their parents,” said a source familiar with the matter. School officials say this dynamic has complicated supervision and contributed to the spread of harmful online behaviour. When administrators discovered the WhatsApp channel, they summoned implicated learners and their guardians for disciplinary hearings. According to multiple accounts, the process was disrupted when some pupils allegedly presented false guardians — local individuals purportedly paid to pose as parents. School staff became suspicious when some of the adults could not provide basic information about the children they claimed to represent. Once the deception was uncovered, the school excused the learners from attending classes temporarily while the matter was escalated to their officially registered parents or guardians. The temporary exclusion has left several pupils at home and triggered anxiety among caregivers who fear for the children’s academic progress. “We are waiting for 14 February. We don’t know what will happen,” said one guardian who asked not to be named. “I’m worried because I cannot afford to move my grandchild to another school.” Another parent appealed for a balanced approach, saying, “It is painful to see a child sitting at home. I hope they are allowed back.” Sobukhazi High headmaster Cain Ncube declined to comment. A school official speaking on condition of anonymity said the learners were not expelled or formally suspended but were excused as a corrective measure. “Our role is to guide and mould children. When they go off course, we must redirect them. We will never chase a child away from school,” the official said, adding that parental responsibility is central to preventing recurrence. The episode has prompted calls for stronger digital-safety education, clearer school policies on phone use, and community engagement to support guardianship where parents live abroad. According to the 2022 census, nearly 909,000 Zimbabweans live in the diaspora — a reality that continues to shape supervision and discipline for children left behind. At Sobukhazi, the 2k Dopest Nation saga is a reminder of the thin line between teenage mischief and conduct that can cause lasting harm, and of the urgent need for coordinated responses from schools, families and social services.

ZIMSEC withholds three A-Level Computer Science results at Bikita Fashu High ( image source ) The Zimbabwe Schools Examination Council (ZIMSEC) has withheld the 2025 Advanced Level Computer Science results of three candidates from Bikita Fashu High School in Masvingo Province while it investigates suspected examination irregularities.  ZIMSEC spokesperson Nicky Dhlamini confirmed the action and said the school has 42 days to submit a written explanation and supporting documentation to account for the irregularities detected. “If we withhold results it means that there is something unusual that we picked,” Dhlamini said.  Of the six candidates who sat the subject at Bikita Fashu, three results were released an A for Tinotenda Chinhondo, a B for Godwill Matsvimbo and a C for Langton Manyanda while the results for Takudzwa Manunure, Tadiwanashe Garandiya and Rutendo Jamayo remain withheld pending the outcome of the probe.  ZIMSEC’s withholding procedure is designed to protect the integrity of national examinations while allowing centres to explain anomalies. The council’s 42-day window is standard practice: schools must present evidence, after which ZIMSEC will either release results, apply penalties, or refer cases for further disciplinary action if malpractice is substantiated.  ( image source ) One affected candidate, Tadiwanashe Garandiya, said he complied with ZIMSEC’s request and wrote a report but expressed concern that some students may have been coached on how to prepare those statements. His mother, Beatrice Bhinzi, said she had not been formally informed about the reasons for the withholding.  Attempts to reach Bikita Fashu headmaster Happison Dima and Computer Science teacher Amina Debora Dzoro were unsuccessful. ZIMSEC said it will make a final determination once the school’s submissions and any follow-up enquiries are complete within the stipulated period.  ZIMSEC has reported improvements in exam security in recent years, citing a reduction in large-scale leaks and cheating incidents, but isolated cases continue to test the system’s capacity to enforce standards and protect candidates’ rights. The council’s approach balances due process for schools and safeguarding the credibility of national qualifications.  ZIMSEC will review the school’s report and any corroborating evidence; if explanations are unsatisfactory, sanctions can include cancellation of results, suspension of centre registration, or referral for criminal investigation where warranted. Parents and candidates are advised to follow official ZIMSEC communications for updates.

Second-hand vehicle imports: mobility lifeline or toxic legacy? ( image source ) Every day Zimbabwe’s ports and border posts receive hundreds of second-hand vehicles from markets such as Japan and the United Kingdom affordable transport that underpins livelihoods and public mobility. But environmental and public-health experts warn many imports carry embedded hazardous materials asbestos, mercury switches, lead-acid batteries and contaminated oils that can become toxic waste when vehicles reach end of life. Customs inspections at entry points like Beitbridge and Chirundu focus on documentation, duties and stolen-vehicle checks; they are not designed to dismantle cars to detect hazardous components. ZIMRA says hazardous-waste control falls under the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), which enforces the Bamako Convention domestically through the Environmental Management Act. In practice, however, vehicle interiors and components are rarely inspected for toxic materials.  EMA officials have acknowledged enforcement gaps: second-hand vehicles are not routinely examined for hazardous parts, and regulatory attention tends to be reactive, addressing disposal rather than preventing hazardous imports. That enforcement gap shifts the burden downstream to informal dismantlers and scrapyards, where unsafe practices are common. ( image source ) When asbestos brake pads are ground, mercury switches smashed, batteries cracked and oil dumped, toxins enter soil, water and air. Informal recyclers often young men working without protective equipment face chronic exposure to carcinogens and neurotoxins, while communities near scrapyards bear long-term health and environmental costs.  Experts point to a structural driver: strict ELV (end-of-life vehicle) rules in exporting countries make domestic disposal costly, creating incentives to export older vehicles rather than recycle them at source. The result is an externalisation of environmental risk to importing countries with weaker enforcement capacity. Practical steps and policy options: Strengthen border screening by equipping EMA and ZIMRA with technical capacity to identify hazardous components.  Mandate importer responsibility for safe dismantling and disposal, backed by licensing and penalties. Scale up HBV-style public awareness and protective-equipment programmes for informal recyclers and scrapyard workers. Without policy shifts and investment in enforcement, Zimbabwe risks trading short-term mobility gains for a long-term public-health and environmental debt a silent crisis on wheels that will be harder and costlier to reverse the longer it is ignored.

Image - Psalm 116:7 I trust that you are taking time to eat well, drink responsibly, sleep and recuperate from life’s ever hectic schedule. I always say if our ancestors were to be given of glimpse of how fast and furious the world has become, they would die a second death. Our fore fathers had an idea of how God intended us to live. They preserved earth , lived mindfully, and only consumed what was enough for them. Frugality was their signature. Today we are so engrossed in amassing earthly treasures that we may never use, in the process , bleeding poor earth , harming ourselves and those around us. And we think rest is a huge loss. When God created heaven and earth , it took Him six days. He created man last and rested on the seventh day. Having done that, God commanded man to rest after labouring for six days. God pioneered rest as a vital aspect for better mental health, increased concentration and memory, a healthier immune system, reduced stress, a closer relationship with Him , improved mood and even a better metabolism!. The Book of Ecclesiastes reminds us of the “Vanity of vanities”, reaffirming that life is for living, enjoying, resting and eventually departing with nothing. Vanity can easily take over wisdom and even common sense. We are always reminded to remember that . Robin Sharma in his book ,”The Monk who sold his Ferrari” depicts an almost tragic awakening in the life of a lawyer who neglected to live life,choosing to drown himself in the pool of a successful legal career with abundant wealth , mansions, expensive cars and women. At the end, he realised the true meaning of life after collapsing in court due to exhaustion. It was then that he sold his precious possessions in in search for meaning, mindfulness and self awareness. Julian chose to re-align himself to spiritual purpose rather than materialism. Image: The Monk We have heard of so many unfortunate incidences where celebrities and prominent figures whose lives have been cut short in the midst of chasing fame and glory. Michael Jackson, who became a celebrity before the age of five, suffered perennial depression due to the pressures of his occupation. His end was tragic, may his dear soul continue to rest in eternal peace. A famous German jazz singer, Roger Cicero (45) died of a stroke caused by chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Tom Simpson, British cyclist, died during the 1967 Tour de France due to exhaustion/amphetamine use. Kanye West had to cancel a string of live shows during his St Pablo tour in 2016 due to exhaustion. Whitney Houston resorted to drug use and exhaustion saw her performing dismally on stage at several shows during her lifetime.She had a a tragic ending too. Rest is not wasteful, neither is it idle. Fortunately our bodies have a way of communicating when they need a break! It is good to listen to our bodies when they have had enough of us chasing vanity. The world has seen the emergence of religious groups that discourage materialism and promote spiritual dimensions. There are alway radical movements that have fleeced unsuspecting congregants of their hard earned wealth. Sufism is one religion with an inward,mystical, and spiritual dimension of Islam. It discourages worldly attachments, encouraging purification of heart to experience exceptional proximity with the Creator.Its said that a tourist once visited a Sufi ad was astonished to see that his home only had his mat and a kerosene lamp. When the tourist asked the Sufi where his furniture was, he also enquired the same. The tourist replied that he was only a visitor. The Sufi also responded,”So am l”. Image: A Sufi meditating. Rest comes in different forms and no one size fits all. There are several types of rest needed by each and every one of us. Forget the action movie stars and life style, no one is a super hero and rest you must! Mental Rest - Mental health has become a topical issue across ages and jurisdiction. Once dubbed as ‘madness’ or demonic as depicted in the biblical Legion,the world has woken up to the sanity that it’s a disease deserving proper health care. Its toll is witnessed in the proliferation of drug and substance abuse. Mental rest implies taking a break from thinking. Yes, thinking can be exhausting and breaks must be taken from this habit. Some meditate , do yoga or gentle exercises like tai chi or nature baths to rest the mind. Sensory Rest - Sensory rest requires us to unplug from screens and gadgets. We must enjoy some quiet time away from the lights, sounds, screens which often result in mental fatigue. The nervous system is critical to our overall health so sensory rest is mandatory. Emotional rest - our cognitive function, relationships and even resilience all depend on healthy emotional rest. Human nature is complex but difficult as it may, we must practice effective communication which comes with good emotional rest. If you have to take breaks from people do so. If you have to say No! Let it be! Setting boundaries means you can be emotionally at peace whilst maintaining good relationships with family and friends. BE true to your feelings and say No when you are tired. Social Rest - Have you ever realised that some buddies are inseparable. And there are some few who enjoy their own company.No matter the numbers, , birds of a feather will always flock together. Find your tribe and make memories . Social rest reaffirms authenticity. It entails taking a break to socialise with trusted friends or family unabated. Such associations help to unwind the brain, boosts mental health and replenishes your energy. So keep those connections healthy and consistent, it’s good therapy. Good therapy also entails maintaining a distance from the energy drainers. Spiritual Rest - Spiritual rest is not only divine but its what makes us tick. We try by all means to make our children understand spirituality and submit to God’s will. Did you hear the story of a mother who was trying to teach her children about the side effects of whiskey? She filled two glasses,one with water and the other with whiskey. She then threw live worms in each glass, and so died the one in the whiskey. Feeling excited that she had made her point, the mum asked the children what lessons they drew from the experiment. The girl responded,”If l drink whiskey, I wont get worms!”. The mum immediately took a much needed spiritual break !! The Spiritual journey itself is a a complex experience which every individual assimilates differently. The monk who ended up selling his Ferrari set on a journey to find clarity and purpose life. He only found that deep in the Himalayan mountains, where he absorbed the rich wisdom passed down from one generation to another amongst the sages of Sivana. This type of rest requires us to deliberately create serene environments to ensure that we enjoy that time alone with God . When God spoke to the prophet Elijah, He did so in a gentle whisper opposed to the wind , earthquake or fire. Spiritual lessons drawn from this masterpiece entail pursuing our successes without attachment. Take time to enjoy the simple things in life and alway remember to connect spiritually to rediscover and restore your mind , body and soul. Embrace the present and aspire to live in the moment. Be grounded and be spiritually well. Physical Rest - The above types of rest all point to rest in the physical sense. To rest physically is to put a stop to activities that drain our strength. It helps to restore our energy and body’s functionality. Physical rest may be effective through extended hours of sleep and minimising movements that starve the body of the much needed rest. Jesus had a very healthy routine where he would go into deep sleep even during the day. So flexible was his system that when he needed to keep watch and pray at midnight, he did it better than the disciples. We read about his disciples becoming frantic during a terrible storm whilst the master took a nap. And as he awoke to the chaos, he responded with amazing calmness , commanding the storm to be still. That was it ! How can we introduce effective rest and relaxation tips ? As illustrated above, if left untreated, long-term stress can cause irreversible health complications. These include headaches, digestive issues, anxiety, depression, chest pain , changes in sexual desire and diminished cognitive functioning to focus. There are quite a number of advantages to daily rest and relaxation: • reduced stress and anxiety • improved mood • decreased blood pressure • chronic pain relief • improved immune health • stronger cardiovascular system It’s our duty to ensure that we identify resting techniques that best suit our lifestyles. For me, gardening brings great pleasure. I keep seeds for replanting. Others rest through meditating, practicing yoga, walking outside, listening to music, reading a book, taking a bath or any combination of these and more!. When planning out your daily routine, find a consistent time to rest. For example, you could Taking a relaxing lavender bath before bed calms the body, mind and soul. Try to practice meditation each morning. You tube has many videos on this. Short walks during your lunch break at work also boost your health and promote good digestion. For goodness sake , do take a mandatory technology break once a week. Go offline and get into nature, talk to neighbours or simply catch a nap. For the workplace, employee focus and cognitive functioning depends on the working environment. I recall visiting Google Headquarters in New York where we toured the office facilities. Image: Google offices New York Google’s comprehensive employee wellness program, designed to boost productivity and employee satisfaction, focuses on physical, mental, and emotional health through on-site amenities and benefits. Key offerings include on-site fitness centers, nutritious meals, mental health support (e.g., therapists, meditation), and generous, flexible work arrangements. The employees can rest whenever needed to boost productivity. Rest is not quitting. Rest is not laziness. It’s a Godly command for all creation to revive, reboot and rejuvenate. It is my desire that this year will be different from others as you deliberately take steps to become a better you. Happy resting! Disclaimer This article intends to share with readers research backed types and advantages of rest. The information shared is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Dr Precious Sibiya , is a certified Wellness Practitioner, stroke survivor and advocate for natural healing and lifestyle. Contact her for more Wellness insights on Email : precioussibiya2014@gmail.com +263775369467

Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition has dissolved its organisational structure after 25 years, citing shrinking civic space, repressive laws and a collapse in donor funding ( image source ) The Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiZC) has resolved to dissolve its current organisational structure with immediate effect following its 16th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 21 January 2026, citing intensifying political repression, restrictive laws and acute funding constraints. The AGM, attended by roughly three-quarters of CiZC’s membership and convened under its 2014 constitution, concluded that the coalition’s existing operating model is no longer tenable amid what it described as a sustained assault on democratic freedoms and civic space. CiZC framed the decision as a strategic repositioning rather than a retreat, aimed at preserving pro-democracy activism under increasingly hostile conditions. In a post-AGM statement, CiZC listed several grievances, including the enactment and enforcement of repressive legislation such as the Private Voluntary Organisations (PVO) Act, the weaponisation of the law against civil society, and the shrinking space for peaceful assembly and dissent. The coalition also criticised Statutory Instrument 156 of 2023, which removed parliamentary oversight of the Mutapa Investment Fund, describing it as symptomatic of elite capture and a driver of public-resource looting. CiZC warned that these developments have deepened socio-economic decline and eroded post-independence gains in rights and public services. ( image source ) Funding pressures were central to the AGM’s deliberations. Delegates cited donor retrenchment and the curtailment of external support for pro-democracy actors, which have left many civic groups financially exposed. CiZC pointed to the collapse of key funding streams as having constrained advocacy, legal defence and community outreach, necessitating a rethink of organisational form and tactics. The coalition said it would explore alternative, less vulnerable modes of civic engagement while safeguarding activists and networks. Reflecting on its 25-year history, CiZC highlighted its role in major national civic campaigns, including the Save Zimbabwe movement and advocacy that contributed to the 2008–2009 Government of National Unity. It acknowledged, however, that prolonged operation under restrictive conditions has taken a heavy toll on membership, morale and capacity. The AGM emphasised that dissolving the formal structure should not be interpreted as surrender, but as a tactical shift to protect individuals and preserve the struggle for constitutionalism and accountability. The coalition’s statement also cited social indicators it says reflect governance failure, including rising poverty levels, collapsing public services, school dropouts and deterioration of the health system. CiZC urged citizens and remaining civic actors to continue defending constitutional rights and called on regional and international partners to push for reforms that restore civic space. How the coalition’s networks will reconstitute themselves — whether as looser alliances, issue-based platforms or discreet advocacy cells — remains uncertain.

Rusape businessman and Staunch Hardware owner Morris Majiri died from internal injuries after a vehicle accident at his home, leaving his family without a breadwinner ( image source ) A Rusape family has been left bereaved after Morris Majiri, owner of Staunch Hardware, died from internal injuries sustained when his Nissan Caravan lurched and trapped him against a water-meter slab at his Crocodile suburb home. According to family sources, the incident began when Majiri’s vehicle became stuck in a ditch. He exited the vehicle to inspect it and was crushed between the bumper and a concrete slab when the vehicle suddenly lurched forward. Neighbours and a tenant, identified as Isaac Kudzanai, reversed the vehicle and rushed Majiri to Rusape General Hospital, where he was treated and discharged. Five days later, his condition deteriorated due to internal bleeding, and he died at home on 16 January before he could be readmitted. An autopsy reportedly revealed severe internal trauma, including a damaged kidney and a ruptured lung. The family laid Majiri to rest at Silverbow Cemetery in Rusape. Local safety experts stress the importance of basic vehicle safety practices, including engaging the handbrake, placing the transmission in park and using wheel chocks on slopes to prevent run-over and crush injuries when vehicles are stationary or being inspected. The case underscores two recurring concerns: the vulnerability of individuals working alone on vehicles and the need for rapid emergency response and monitoring after discharge for internal injuries, which can present delayed, life-threatening complications. Medical practitioners advise that anyone involved in crush incidents be observed for at least 24–48 hours and receive follow-up imaging to detect internal bleeding. Police comment was not available at the time of reporting. The family has appealed for privacy as they mourn and for greater community awareness on vehicle-safety precautions to prevent similar tragedies.

Five men were shot dead outside a Jeffsville tuck shop in Pretoria, with three confirmed as Zimbabwean brothers, as police investigate the motive behind the daylight attack ( image source ) A daylight shooting outside a tuck shop in Jeffsville, Atteridgeville, Pretoria, left five men dead, three of whom have been identified as Zimbabwean brothers Shein Moyo, Shelton Moyo and Mike Nkala. Gauteng police said the attack occurred at about 13:15 when an unknown number of assailants approached the victims and opened fire before fleeing the scene; paramedics declared all five dead at the scene. Family members described shock and grief as they struggled to come to terms with the sudden loss. The victims were characterised by relatives as hardworking and not involved in criminality. The family faces immediate financial strain to repatriate the bodies to Zimbabwe for burial, with estimated costs of around R20,000 per body, according to relatives. Eyewitnesses reported chaotic scenes as customers and the tuck-shop owner fled in panic. Police have launched an intensive investigation, canvassing the area for CCTV footage, cellphone recordings and eyewitness testimony. Gauteng police spokespersons confirmed deployment of resources and appealed for witnesses to come forward. Early reporting suggests investigators are exploring motives that include gang-related extortion or targeted attacks, but no arrests had been announced at the time of initial reports. ( image source ) Community leaders and residents expressed heightened fear, noting a recent spike in violent incidents in parts of Tshwane. Authorities urged anyone with credible information to contact local SAPS stations to assist with the probe. For families of victims, immediate needs include logistical and consular support for repatriation and counselling services; civil-society groups and community fundraisers often step in to help cover costs in such cases. As investigations continue, police updates on arrests, ballistic analysis and motive will be critical to restoring community confidence. Meanwhile, the tragedy underscores the human cost of violent crime and the urgent need for strengthened community policing and witness protection to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe is accelerating its AI-driven digital transformation, using autonomous networks and AI-powered services to boost performance, growth and customer experience ( image source ) Econet Wireless Zimbabwe (EWZ), the country’s largest mobile network operator, has unveiled ambitious plans to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) as a core pillar of its digital transformation strategy, aiming to boost operational efficiency, network resilience and customer experience. In its trading update for the third quarter ended November 30, 2025, EWZ said AI has become a critical enabler across its operations, particularly in network management and security. The company noted that it is moving towards an autonomous network model capable of self-configuration, self-optimisation, self-healing and self-learning through AI and machine learning technologies. These capabilities are designed to prevent and mitigate service disruptions, reduce downtime and improve overall network performance. As part of its customer-facing innovation, Econet reported continued enhancements to its YamuraiAI chatbot, which provides end-to-end virtual customer support. Launched in 2023, the chatbot has become an increasingly important engagement tool, offering real-time assistance, product information and faster resolution of customer queries. Analysts say this mirrors global telecom trends, where AI is being deployed to manage increasingly complex networks and deliver more personalised digital services. ( image source ) The group’s financial performance during the period reflected strong momentum in its digital platforms. EcoCash, Econet’s flagship mobile money service, recorded a 28 percent increase in customer activity, while transaction volumes grew by 36 percent year-on-year. Wallet funding rose sharply by 91 percent compared to the same period last year, and the platform’s overall footprint expanded by 88 percent, underscoring its central role in driving financial inclusion and digital payments in Zimbabwe. Growth was also evident across the insurance segment. Individual life insurance policies increased by 10 percent, short-term insurance policy holders surged by 81 percent, and medical aid membership rose by 9 percent. EWZ attributed this performance to sustained infrastructure investment, customer-focused initiatives and the expansion of mobile financial services and wallet-based products. Industry observers note that Econet’s AI strategy aligns with broader trends across African telecoms, where operators are increasingly turning to advanced analytics and automation to cut costs and improve service delivery. GSMA Intelligence projects significant growth in AI adoption across the continent’s telecom sector by 2030, driven by rising data demand and expanding digital ecosystems. Looking ahead, Econet said it will continue to prioritise technology-led innovation, with AI remaining central to its long-term growth strategy. The company reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing investment in network infrastructure and AI-powered solutions to deliver sustainable growth and enhanced value for customers.

ZRP has warned businesses after a Macheke cash-in-transit robbery involving USD 12,002, urging firms to stop sharing cash-movement details online and strengthen security protocols ( image source ) The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has issued a stern warning to companies and individuals after a robbery at a Macheke service station in which USD 12,002, a Toyota Aqua (reg. AFP 4750) and four cell phones were stolen. Preliminary investigations indicate the theft followed the online sharing of cash-movement details by a service-station manager who posted information about collections from Murambinda, Nyazura and Macheke while travelling to Harare for banking. The vehicle was later recovered abandoned near the 74-kilometre peg on the Harare–Mutare Road. Police emphasised that posting operational cash-movement details on unsecured WhatsApp groups or social media exposes businesses to targeted criminality. The ZRP urged commercial operators to adopt stricter internal controls, including limiting digital circulation of cash schedules, using professional cash-in-transit services, and enforcing dual sign-offs for cash handling. Authorities warned that negligence in operational security can have serious consequences for staff and customers. ( image source ) Security experts say the intelligence value of routine social posts is often underestimated: criminals monitor patterns and exploit predictable routes and timings. Practical measures recommended by law-enforcement and security consultants include staggered deposits, encrypted communications for essential coordination, visible security escorts, and CCTV coverage of collection points. Businesses are also advised to train staff on the risks of sharing sensitive information and to maintain a documented chain of custody for cash. The incident highlights broader vulnerabilities in retail and fuel-retail sectors, where cash remains a high-value target. Observers note that while digital payments reduce cash exposure, many rural and peri-urban outlets still rely on cash collections, making robust operational security essential. The ZRP’s public advisory aims to reduce repeat incidents by raising awareness and prompting immediate changes to cash-handling protocols. Businesses seeking to reduce risk should conduct rapid security audits, engage licensed cash-in-transit providers, and restrict operational details to a minimal number of trusted personnel. The ZRP has appealed to the public to report suspicious activity and to cooperate with investigations to bring perpetrators to justice.

Zimbabwe’s former white commercial farmers have hired US lobbying firm Mercury Public Affairs to press Washington for support on a delayed US$3.5bn land reform compensation deal ( image source ) A group of former white commercial farmers in Zimbabwe has hired Washington-based lobbying firm Mercury Public Affairs to seek US political support for long-delayed compensation linked to the country’s land reform programme. According to a filing under the US Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), Mercury Public Affairs agreed to represent the farmers’ compensation claims on a pro bono basis. The move signals a calculated effort to leverage the firm’s strong Republican and Trump-era connections, including partner Bryan Lanza, a former senior adviser to Donald Trump’s presidential campaign. The lobbying request, dated December 2, was submitted by Dror Besserglik of Johannesburg-based OB Projects Management. It asks Mercury to engage officials within the current US administration as well as members of Congress to support payment to Zimbabwean farmers affected by farm expropriations. At the centre of the dispute is a 2020 agreement in which the Zimbabwean government committed to pay US$3.5 billion to compensate former farm owners for improvements made on expropriated land, excluding the land itself. Progress has been slow: Treasury allocated just US$10 million in the 2026 national budget to cover compensation claims for approximately 740 farmers. ( image source ) Mercury’s involvement is complicated by its previous relationship with the Zimbabwean government. Between 2019 and 2021, the firm represented Harare in Washington as it sought the easing of long-standing US sanctions, receiving a monthly retainer. The shift from lobbying for the state to representing private claimants highlights the evolving and often overlapping interests surrounding Zimbabwe’s re-engagement efforts. The current campaign also aligns with growing partisan debate in the United States around the treatment of white farmers in southern Africa. Several Republican lawmakers have promoted measures tying international financial support for Zimbabwe to the settlement of compensation claims. In September, US Representative Brian Mast introduced legislation aimed at blocking Zimbabwe’s access to new IMF and World Bank funding until compensation obligations are met. The initiative is reportedly backed by the Property and Farm Compensation Association (Profca) and other regional farming bodies. However, the Commercial Farmers Union (CFU) has publicly distanced itself, stating that its name was included in filings in error and that it was neither consulted nor formally involved. By taking the compensation dispute to Washington, the farmers have internationalised an issue that remains central to Zimbabwe’s debt resolution and re-engagement agenda. Increased US political pressure could accelerate negotiations over compensation payments, but it also risks complicating Harare’s diplomatic posture and relations with multilateral lenders, depending on how the government and regional stakeholders respond.

Zimbabwe’s hustle culture fuels survival, not sustainability ( image source ) It is a fact that the hustle culture has proliferated in Zimbabwe post 2000 economic tectonic shifts. The term "hustler" is often used to describe individuals who embody resilience, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit. Hustling tends to emphasize more on ‘making hay whilst the sun shines’.  It doesn’t focus on building sustainable ventures thereafter. There's a fine line between being a hustler and becoming a Nestler- someone who builds lasting legacies after the hustle. Let's explore how hustlers can transform into Nestlers, fostering sustainable legacies that transcend generations. Hustlers are known for their tenacity and ability to thrive in challenging environments. They're often driven by a survival mentality, focused on short-term gains, and willing to take risks to achieve their goals. While this mindset is essential for initial success, it can be limiting when it comes to building sustainable legacies that outlive the founding visionaries. The writer strongly believes that it is possible to tame and transform “hustlepreneurship” instincts into value adding and value sustaining “nestlepreneurship”, which is structured and systematic wealth creation. Nestlers, on the other hand, are visionaries who prioritize long-term impact over short-term gains. They focus on creating value, investing in people, and building systems that outlast them. Nestlers are characterized by their strategic thinking. They plan and focus on the future, anticipating challenges and opportunities. They put emphasis on legacy, prioritizing building lasting impact, rather than seeking instant gratification. They invest in people, nurturing talent, mentoring others, and create a supportive community. In short, nestlers value sustainability, prioritizing environmental and social responsibility, ensuring their success doesn't come at the expense of future generations. How to Transform Hustlers into Nestlers Here are key strategies: Shift your hustler focus by moving from short-term gains to long-term impact. Ask yourself, "What's the legacy I want to leave behind?" Develop strategic thinking. Invest time in planning, forecasting, and scenario-building. Invest in people. Mentor, coach, and empower others to build a strong team. Prioritize sustainability. Integrate environmental and social responsibility into your business model. Build solid nests and systems, not just businesses. Create processes and structures that can thrive without you or long after you are gone. The table below summarizes what happens if the hustle is not transformed into a nestle. Hustling alone is short term and if not augmented with serious nestling initiatives for sustainability. The table looks at once-upon-a-time promising indigenous bus companies in Zimbabwe, which rose to prominence, but faced significant challenges with a number of them falling into the abyss of oblivion.  Analyze the table and figure out why the trend is the way it is. In the next article I will give a detailed analysis of the scenarios. Table 1: Indigenous Bus Companies that experienced Succession and Sustainability Challenges in post-Independence Zimbabwe Name of company Owner/founder Year of death of founder No. of buses at the time of death No. of buses after one year No. of buses after two years No. of buses in 2009 Manica Bus Services Mr. Movern Mahachi 2001 12 10 8 1 Matemba Bus Services Mr. Matemba 2000 9 8 6 2 Mushandira (Samaz) Mr. Solomon Tavengwa 2004 10 7 4 1 Masamvu Bus Services Mr. Masamvu 1998 6 5 5 2 Mwoyomuchena Bus Services Mr. Mabodza 1995 16 16 13 0 Shoe Shine Mr. P Hall 1988 62 60 55 0 Source: Ministry of Transport cited in Gunduza & Fungurani (2011) Business Ethics and Corporate Governance in Zimbabwe The journey from hustler to Nestler is transformative, requiring a shift in mindset and approach. By embracing strategic thinking, investing in people, and prioritizing sustainability, Zimbabwean entrepreneurs can build lasting legacies. Let's celebrate the hustlers and support their transformation into Nestlers, fostering a brighter future for generations to come. 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