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Seven people were murdered in separate incidents across Midlands Province during the Christmas holiday period ( image source ) GWERU — The Midlands Province recorded seven murder cases over the Christmas holiday period, with police confirming that the killings occurred in separate violent incidents between 23 and 26 December across several districts. Provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko said the murders were reported in Shurugwi, Gokwe South and Silobela, with investigations still underway and some suspects yet to be apprehended. He said the incidents underscore a worrying spike in violent crime during the festive season. Among the reported cases was the killing of Trust Mupanduki (28), who was allegedly stabbed by a suspect identified only as Taku at Safago Farm compound in Shurugwi. In Gokwe South, Malvin Fai Moyo (20) was fatally stabbed by Blessing Ncube, while another incident in the same district claimed the life of Anymore Chogodo (30) following a violent altercation at Guyu Business Centre. In Silobela, Josphat Ncube (40) was stabbed to death at Ndebele Bar, with police identifying Adonis Bvenura and accomplices as suspects in the case. Inspector Mahoko said several of the suspects remain at large, prompting an appeal for public cooperation. “Police are appealing for information that may lead to the arrest of suspects, including Taku, Blessing Ncube and others involved in these cases. The success of our investigations depends largely on the assistance of members of the public,” Mahoko said. The spate of killings has raised concerns among authorities and community leaders, particularly as the festive season is traditionally associated with family gatherings and celebrations. Analysts have attributed many such incidents to alcohol abuse, disputes over money and unresolved interpersonal conflicts, which tend to escalate during holiday periods. Police have urged citizens to exercise restraint, avoid confrontations and report suspicious behaviour to law enforcement agencies. Community leaders have also called for stronger community engagement and proactive policing to help curb violent crime. For the affected families, the holiday period has been marked by grief and loss, as investigations into the incidents continue.

Chinhoyi Municipality has issued a final notice warning dog owners to secure their animals ( image source ) CHINHOYI — The Municipality of Chinhoyi has issued a final notice directing dog owners to properly secure their animals, warning that dogs found roaming freely will be impounded in accordance with municipal by-laws. In a public notice issued through the Department of Health Services, the local authority reminded residents that dogs must be kept under control at all times. This includes ensuring that animals are securely confined within private property and placed on a leash when taken into public spaces. Municipal officials said the directive is aimed at reducing risks to public safety. Roaming dogs have been linked to incidents of dog bites, the spread of rabies and other zoonotic diseases, and traffic accidents involving motorists attempting to avoid stray animals. Children and elderly residents were identified as being particularly vulnerable to attacks by uncontrolled dogs. Health officials also raised concerns about sanitation, noting that dogs roaming freely often scavenge at refuse sites, worsening hygiene conditions in residential areas and increasing the risk of disease transmission. Under the enforcement measures outlined, dogs found wandering unattended in streets, open spaces or business areas may be impounded by municipal authorities. Owners will be required to pay impoundment fees and meet set conditions before reclaiming their animals. The municipality warned that repeat offenders may face further penalties as provided for under existing by-laws. The local authority urged residents to comply with the tie-up order, saying responsible pet ownership is essential to maintaining a safe, orderly and healthy urban environment. Residents seeking clarification on the requirements were advised to contact the Municipality of Chinhoyi Department of Health Services.

The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe says new ZiG bank notes are ready for phased release in early 2026 ( image source ) HARARE — The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has confirmed that new ZiG bank notes are ready for circulation, with a phased rollout scheduled for the first quarter of 2026, as authorities move cautiously to reintroduce physical cash without destabilising monetary conditions. RBZ Governor Dr John Mushayavanhu said the introduction of the notes will be gradual and demand-driven, with distribution taking place through commercial banks and other authorised channels. He stressed that the timing and scale of release will be guided by prevailing economic conditions and actual demand for physical cash. “The new ZiG notes are expected to be introduced within the first three months of 2026, and the process will be gradual and carefully aligned with economic conditions and actual cash demand,” Mushayavanhu said. The central bank moved to allay fears of inflationary pressure, emphasising that the release of physical notes will not expand the money supply. Mushayavanhu explained that banks will obtain the cash by converting existing electronic balances held at the central bank. “This will not expand money supply because banks will obtain the cash by exchanging it for their RTGS balances at the Reserve Bank,” he said. RBZ said macroeconomic stability is expected to continue into 2026, supported by improved foreign currency management systems and stronger domestic and external sector fundamentals. Mushayavanhu noted that price and exchange-rate stability had been maintained throughout most of 2025, helping to restore confidence in the ZiG. “Price and exchange rate stability is expected to continue, underpinned by enhanced foreign currency management systems and strong domestic and external sector fundamentals,” he said. The ZiG is currently backed by foreign currency reserves estimated at about US$1.1 billion, providing approximately 1.2 months of import cover. According to RBZ, the accumulation of reserves has strengthened confidence in the local currency. During 2025, month-on-month ZiG inflation averaged 0.4 percent between February and November, while the exchange rate traded largely within a narrow band of ZiG26 to ZiG27 against the United States dollar. RBZ data also shows a narrowing of the parallel market premium to below 20 percent, down from levels above 40 percent earlier in the year, reflecting improved exchange-rate discipline and market confidence. Members of the public have welcomed the prospect of physical ZiG notes, saying cash availability would ease daily transactions, particularly in sectors where electronic payment systems remain unreliable. The central bank said it remains committed to maintaining monetary discipline and safeguarding the value of the ZiG as part of broader macroeconomic stabilisation efforts.

Police are investigating the death of a 56-year-old Gweru man found with a gunshot wound at his Woodlands home ( image source ) GWERU — A 56-year-old man from Woodlands suburb in Gweru was found dead at his home on 29 December in what police are treating as a suspected suicide, Midlands provincial police have confirmed. The deceased, identified as Farai Zindonda, was discovered with a gunshot wound, while a firearm was found in his possession when officers attended the scene, according to Midlands provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko. Police said investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the death. “Investigations are underway to establish the full circumstances leading to the death,” Insp Mahoko said, adding that standard procedures were being followed to rule out foul play and reconstruct a timeline of events. He appealed to members of the public with relevant information to assist police inquiries. A sombre mood reportedly enveloped Woodlands as neighbours and relatives struggled to come to terms with the incident. Community leaders urged calm and encouraged anyone with knowledge of the circumstances to cooperate with investigators. Police have not disclosed whether a suicide note was found or whether the deceased had a history of mental health challenges. Insp Mahoko used the incident to highlight the importance of mental health awareness and community support, urging individuals facing emotional or personal difficulties to seek help. “They should learn to share with third parties or respected people who can help with counselling,” he said. Mental health advocates said the case highlights ongoing gaps in access to psychological support services, particularly in provincial centres. They called on authorities and health institutions to intensify outreach programmes and improve the visibility and accessibility of counselling services. “Early intervention and community support can prevent tragedies,” one advocate said. Police confirmed that forensic teams processed the scene and that statements were being recorded from family members and neighbours. No arrests have been made, and the matter remains under active investigation. Authorities said further details would be released once preliminary forensic and witness inquiries are concluded.

Indian engineering firm RITES Ltd has secured a US$3.6 million contract to supply diesel-electric locomotives to Zimbabwe ( image source ) NEW DELHI/HARARE — Indian transport consultancy and engineering firm RITES Ltd has secured an international contract worth US$3.6 million to supply locomotives to a Zimbabwe-based company, strengthening its footprint in Africa’s rail and transport sector. In a regulatory filing, RITES said it won the order from Berhard Development Corporation of Zimbabwe for the supply of in-service Cape Gauge diesel-electric locomotives. The contract is expected to be executed within a three-month period. The company clarified that the deal was awarded by an international entity and does not constitute a related-party transaction. It added that its promoters and promoter groups have no interest in the Zimbabwean company that awarded the contract. The announcement drew market attention to RITES shares, which have faced pressure in recent months amid broader challenges in the domestic market. Analysts said the Zimbabwe order highlights the company’s ability to secure and execute overseas contracts, reinforcing its credentials as a global transport consultancy and engineering firm. RITES, a Navratna public sector enterprise under the Government of India, has more than five decades of experience in transport infrastructure and consultancy services. The company has executed projects in over 55 countries across Asia, Africa and Latin America, covering railway infrastructure, rolling stock supply, port development and transport planning. The Zimbabwe contract is expected to support freight and mining logistics, sectors that are increasingly critical to the country’s economic recovery and export performance. Analysts note that Zimbabwe’s mining industry, particularly gold and lithium, relies heavily on efficient rail systems to move bulk commodities to regional and international markets. For RITES, the deal represents another step in its international expansion strategy, particularly in Africa where it has previously undertaken assignments in countries such as Mozambique and South Africa. Market observers say successful delivery of the Zimbabwe project could position the firm for larger rail infrastructure and rolling stock contracts on the continent, where demand for rail modernisation remains strong. The US$3.6 million order also comes as RITES seeks to diversify its revenue streams beyond India, leveraging its expertise in Cape Gauge railway systems to meet the needs of African economies upgrading their transport networks.

Harare City Council has intensified enforcement against illegal heavy-truck parking in residential areas ( image source ) HARARE — The City of Harare has launched an intensified enforcement drive against the illegal parking of heavy-duty trucks in residential suburbs, warning that offending vehicles will be fined and impounded as authorities move to restore safety, traffic flow and uninterrupted municipal services. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the local authority said it had observed a sharp rise in heavy trucks being parked in residential streets, a practice prohibited under municipal by-laws. The City said the trend has resulted in blocked roads, traffic disruptions and restricted access for essential service vehicles, including refuse collection trucks and emergency responders. “It is illegal to park heavy-duty trucks in residential areas,” the City said, adding that enforcement teams are already issuing fines to offending drivers and owners. Authorities warned that payment of fines alone would not resolve violations if trucks remain in prohibited areas. Vehicles that are not removed after being ticketed will be impounded. Municipal officials said the clampdown is aimed at protecting residential infrastructure and public safety, particularly in high-density suburbs where roads were not designed to accommodate heavy commercial vehicles. Residents have long complained that large trucks contribute to congestion, accelerate road damage and pose safety risks to pedestrians and children. The City said enforcement officers will patrol identified hotspots and urged truck operators to use designated parking facilities and comply with regulations to avoid penalties. Local councillors welcomed the move, saying it responds to persistent complaints from communities. Some noted that illegally parked trucks have disrupted refuse collection schedules and delayed emergency responses during recent incidents. Community leaders expressed hope that enforcement would be sustained and supported by clearer guidance on approved parking zones. Transport industry representatives acknowledged the need to balance commercial logistics with residential order but called on the City to ensure adequate designated parking spaces and clear signage. They also urged engagement with haulage companies to develop practical alternatives that prevent the displacement of trucks into other neighbourhoods. Urban planners said the situation reflects a broader challenge of managing growing freight movements in a city whose residential areas were built long before modern heavy-vehicle logistics. They recommended a coordinated approach combining enforcement with investment in peripheral truck parks, improved delivery scheduling and incentives for off-peak operations. For now, the City of Harare has signalled zero tolerance for illegal heavy-truck parking, putting operators on notice to remove vehicles from residential streets or face fines and possible impoundment.

Government has launched national databases to mobilise retired professionals and diaspora skills ( image source ) HARARE — Government has launched two national databases aimed at harnessing the skills, experience and expertise of retired professionals and Zimbabweans living in the diaspora, in a move officials say will unlock critical human-capital resources to accelerate economic growth, innovation and service delivery under Vision 2030. The databases were unveiled in Harare on Tuesday by the Minister of Skills Audit and Development, Professor Paul Mavhima, who described the initiative as a strategic shift in how Zimbabwe identifies, organises and deploys its intellectual assets. He said the country possesses a deep pool of skills that has remained largely untapped due to the absence of a centralised system. “Zimbabwe is richly endowed with skills, experience and knowledge,” Prof Mavhima said. “Many retired professionals still carry invaluable institutional memory, while Zimbabweans in the diaspora are excelling globally in sectors such as engineering, health, ICT, finance and science. Until now, there has been no coordinated mechanism to systematically map and mobilise these capabilities.” He said the new platforms are designed to transform previously fragmented and informal expertise into strategic national assets that can support economic planning, sector coordination and targeted interventions across both the public and private sectors. The initiative aligns with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030, the National Development Strategy frameworks (NDS1 and NDS2), and the Education 5.0 philosophy, which prioritises innovation, industrialisation and problem-solving rooted in national development needs. Officials said the databases will strengthen skills planning, improve deployment for priority projects and enable rapid mobilisation of specialists for short-term assignments, advisory roles and mentorship programmes. Under the framework, retired professionals will be invited to register their qualifications, areas of experience and availability for consultancy or mentorship. Diaspora participants will submit information on their specialisations, geographic location and willingness to contribute either remotely or through in-country engagements. The databases are expected to feature search and matching functions, allowing ministries, state-owned enterprises and private firms to identify and engage suitable expertise efficiently. Stakeholders welcomed the move but stressed the importance of effective implementation. Business groups said the databases could significantly reduce skills gaps in critical sectors if supported by incentives for short-term deployments and simplified contracting processes. Civil society organisations called for strong data protection measures, transparency in selection and deployment, and merit-based engagement to avoid politicisation. Analysts said the long-term success of the initiative will depend on sustained funding, strong governance structures and integration with existing human-resource planning systems. They also highlighted the need for monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to measure the impact of deployed expertise on service delivery, productivity and project outcomes. Government officials said the platforms are expected to become a central tool for national development planning, enabling Zimbabwe to actively leverage its retired professionals and diaspora workforce as partners in industrialisation, innovation and public-sector reform as the country advances towards Vision 2030.

Warriors midfielder Marvelous Nakamba has apologised after conceding a late penalty as Zimbabwe lost 3–2 to South Africa, exiting the Africa Cup of Nations at the group stage ( image source ) HARARE — Warriors midfielder Marvelous Nakamba has apologised to Zimbabweans after conceding a late penalty that proved decisive in Zimbabwe’s 3–2 defeat to South Africa in their Group B Africa Cup of Nations match on Monday, a result that confirmed the Warriors’ exit from the tournament. Zimbabwe were level at 2–2 deep into the second half when Nakamba was adjudged to have handled the ball inside the penalty area. Following a VAR review, the referee awarded South Africa a spot kick, which Oswin Appollis converted in the 82nd minute to send Bafana Bafana into the knockout stages. Speaking after the match, Nakamba accepted responsibility for the incident and addressed supporters directly. “I am sorry to my country, to my teammates and to everyone in Zimbabwe,” he said. “It’s life. We lose as a team and hopefully we will soldier on and learn from the mistakes. It’s part of life.” The match had been closely contested, with Zimbabwe showing resilience after falling behind twice. South Africa took an early lead through Tshepang Moremi, whose deflected effort looped over goalkeeper Washington Arubi. Zimbabwe responded in the 19th minute when Tawanda Maswanhise weaved past defenders before scoring from range. South Africa regained the advantage shortly after the break, with Lyle Foster heading over Arubi following a moment of defensive hesitation. Zimbabwe once again responded, restoring parity and setting up a tense final phase before the controversial penalty decision swung the match in South Africa’s favour. An own goal by Aubrey Modiba reduced the deficit and sparked late pressure from the Warriors in stoppage time, but South Africa held firm to secure the victory. Zimbabwe coach Mario Marinica said the result highlighted the fine margins at international level. “At this level of competition, every mistake is punished,” Marinica said. “We knew South Africa would have spells of dominance. They are comfortable on the ball, and we tried to exploit the spaces when they appeared.” He added that Zimbabwe had remained competitive for large periods of the match. “In transition, we were dangerous and that allowed us to stay in the contest. But we needed to stay organised, win our duels and be strong on second balls throughout.” Reaction to Nakamba’s penalty was mixed among supporters on social media. While some expressed frustration at the decisive moment, others urged fans not to single out an individual in a team sport, commending the midfielder for taking responsibility publicly. The result saw South Africa finish second in Group B with six points to secure qualification for the knockout stages. Zimbabwe finished bottom of the group with one point and exit the tournament.

Stakeholders in transport and mining have welcomed new laws reserving key economic sectors for locals ( image source ) HARARE — Stakeholders in the transport and mining sectors have welcomed the promulgation of laws reserving certain sectors of the economy exclusively for local citizens, describing the move as a long-overdue intervention to protect indigenous operators. The statutory instrument prohibits foreign nationals from participating in designated reserved sectors, including retail, pharmaceuticals, freight forwarding, passenger transport and artisanal mining. Government says the policy is intended to safeguard local participation while redirecting foreign investment towards higher-value economic activities. Zimbabwe Indigenous Transporters Association (ZITA) chairperson Mr Simon Gambiza said the new regulations would allow local operators to reclaim lost ground in the transport industry. He noted that large mining companies had increasingly relied on their own transport subsidiaries, sidelining indigenous players. “Government has now acted, allowing local transporters to return to business and participate meaningfully in the sector,” Gambiza said. The Zimbabwe Union of Drivers and Conductors (ZUDAC) also welcomed the move, saying foreign nationals had come to dominate the passenger transport sector. Secretary-General Mr Frederick Magumamhinga said the policy would protect local operators and help curb cartel-like practices. “Foreigners had taken over the passenger transport business, limiting opportunities for locals. Some cartels were even forming, so Government has done well to ensure locals can fully participate in the economy,” he said. In the mining sector, the reservation of artisanal and small-scale mining for local citizens has been viewed as a boost to an industry that contributes about 70 percent of Zimbabwe’s gold output. Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF) president Ms Henrietta Rushwaya said the policy would strengthen the sector’s performance. “This will grow the contribution of artisanal miners, who have already surpassed their targets this year. Maximum local citizen participation is good for the sector, while foreign investors can move up the value chain to make more meaningful contributions,” she said. Government officials say reserving entry-level sectors for locals will promote citizen empowerment, while encouraging foreign capital to focus on beneficiation, industrialisation and infrastructure development. Analysts agree the policy could help rebalance economic participation and empower communities, but caution that effective enforcement and support for local operators will be critical for the policy to succeed.

ZNA Commander Lt Gen Asher Tapfumaneyi has reaffirmed the army’s commitment to national stability, saying peace and security are vital for investment confidence and economic growth ( image source ) HARARE — Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) Commander Lieutenant General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi has reaffirmed the military’s commitment to maintaining peace and security, saying national stability remains critical to sustaining investor confidence and economic development. Lieutenant General Tapfumaneyi made the remarks during a courtesy call on Acting President Colonel (Rtd) Dr Kembo Mohadi at Munhumutapa Offices on Monday. He said discussions centred on strengthening coordination among the country’s security institutions to safeguard peace and stability. “The emphasis was on coordination and cooperation among commanders of the security forces — the army, air force, police, prison services and the Central Intelligence Organisation,” Tapfumaneyi said. He noted that enhanced inter-agency collaboration was particularly important given recent leadership changes within the defence forces. Both he and the Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces are newly appointed, making coordination a key priority. “Coordination is very important so that we secure the stability of this country and ensure that Zimbabweans can live and conduct business in a peaceful environment,” he said. Tapfumaneyi said the visit also followed established protocol after his appointment, which requires newly appointed commanders to pay courtesy calls on appointing authorities. “As is tradition, after appointment we pay courtesy calls on the appointing authorities, starting with the President, then the Vice Presidents, and proceeding to the Minister and Secretary for Defence,” he said. Lieutenant General Tapfumaneyi assumed command of the ZNA last month following the promotion of General Emmanuel Matatu to Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and the retirement of General (Rtd) Phillip Valerio Sibanda. Government has repeatedly emphasised that strong coordination within the security sector is a foundation for economic recovery, investor confidence and long-term national development, with peace and stability viewed as essential enablers of growth.

Zimbabwean writer Gerald Shorayi has released a children’s book, Mukanyawashe’s Big Adventure, showcasing Zimbabwe’s landscapes, heritage and wildlife through storytelling ( image source ) HARARE — Zimbabwean writer Gerald Shorayi, also known as G Boss the Poet, has released a children’s novel titled Mukanyawashe’s Big Adventure, a story that blends imaginative storytelling with references to Zimbabwe’s natural and cultural heritage. Set partly in Chirinda Forest, the book follows the journey of Mukanyawashe, a young baboon whose adventures introduce young readers to various locations across Zimbabwe. Written primarily for children, the narrative combines fantasy and educational elements to promote curiosity about the country’s environment, wildlife and history. Shorayi has an extensive academic background, having studied at the University of Zimbabwe, Renmin University of China, Beijing Institute of Technology and Beijing Normal University. He holds Master’s degrees in Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language and Public Management. While studying in China, he developed a strong interest in folktales and narrative-based learning, influences that are evident in his children’s writing. His previous publications include Chikuni Chempangara, Hadyana, Bhanan’ana reNhorimbo, Art is Life and The Bleeding Tree. In Mukanyawashe’s Big Adventure, the central character dreams of seeing Zimbabwe from the air. This leads to a fictional twist in which Mukanyawashe discovers wings that allow him to travel beyond his forest home. During his journey, Mukanyawashe encounters challenges and receives guidance from Hungweyashe, a fish eagle who accompanies him across the country. The story references several iconic locations, including Mutarazi Falls, Nyanga, Mana Pools, Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, Matobo Hills, Great Zimbabwe and Gonarezhou. Through these encounters, the character gains insight into the country’s landscapes, wildlife and historical sites. At the conclusion of the story, Mukanyawashe returns to Chirinda Forest and gives up the wings, bringing the journey full circle. The book uses storytelling as a tool to introduce young readers to Zimbabwe’s geography and heritage, while encouraging interest in conservation, history and domestic tourism.

CZR has welcomed Zimbabwe’s reserved sector policy under SI 215 of 2025, saying it protects local businesses while promoting balanced and productive foreign investment ( image source ) HARARE — The Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers (CZR) has welcomed Government’s reserved sector policy, saying the new regulations strike a balance between protecting local businesses and allowing structured, high-impact foreign investment. The policy is contained in Statutory Instrument 215 of 2025, issued by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. It outlines economic sectors reserved for Zimbabwean citizens while setting clear participation thresholds for foreign investors in non-reserved areas of the economy. Under the regulations, 13 sectors are reserved exclusively for local participation. These include artisanal and small-scale mining; transport services such as taxis and car hire; barber shops and beauty salons; bakeries; employment agencies; customs clearing; pharmaceutical retailing; real estate agencies; borehole drilling; and arts and crafts. Foreign-owned businesses already operating in these sectors are required to progressively reduce their shareholding, transferring at least 75 percent ownership to Zimbabwean citizens within three years, at a minimum rate of 25 percent per year. In a statement, CZR president Mr Denford Mutashu said the policy reflects a deliberate effort to empower citizens while safeguarding long-term economic growth. “These regulations preserve specific economic spaces for Zimbabwean citizens, while ensuring that foreign investment is directed towards high-impact and capital-intensive sectors that support industrialisation,” Mutashu said. CZR also welcomed the introduction of minimum investment and employment thresholds for foreign firms operating in non-reserved sectors, describing them as a way to ensure that foreign direct investment delivers measurable economic value. Under the new framework, foreign investors in retail and wholesale trade are required to invest a minimum of US$20 million and employ at least 200 people. In grain milling, the threshold is US$25 million with a minimum workforce of 50 employees, while haulage and logistics firms must invest at least US$10 million and employ 100 workers. The retailers’ body said the thresholds are designed to promote meaningful participation that contributes to job creation, industrial growth and supply-chain development. CZR also expressed support for provisions requiring manufacturers to distribute products through locally owned wholesale and retail channels, arguing that this strengthens domestic value chains and broadens participation by Zimbabwean businesses. “This provision supports local traders and ensures broader participation by Zimbabwean businesses across distribution networks,” the organisation said. Mutashu said the reserved sector policy aligns with Government’s broader objectives of inclusive growth, citizen empowerment and sustainable economic development. “As retailers, we support this policy direction. It promotes fair competition, protects local enterprise and contributes to a more balanced and resilient economy,” he said.