The Mutapa Investment Fund has received a qualified audit opinion ( image source ) HARARE — The Mutapa Investment Fund (MIF) has been issued a qualified audit opinion by Grant Thornton, which flagged significant breaches of international accounting standards in the Fund’s first financial statements covering the period from 19 September 2023 to 31 December 2024. Grant Thornton said MIF failed to comply with IFRS 9 and IFRS 13 by not measuring investments at fair value on initial recognition after the Fund assumed control of numerous state-owned enterprises under Statutory Instruments 156 of 2023 and 51 of 2024. Auditors warned that because fair values were not determined at the dates the assets vested, the carrying amounts of investments and the capital contribution recorded in the financial statements are misstated, and the extent of the misstatement could not be determined. Grant Thornton flagged breaches of IFRS standards relating to asset valuation, currency translation and the use of unaudited financial data ( image source ) The audit also raised concerns about the valuation methodology applied to unquoted subsidiaries and associates. Grant Thornton noted that the Fund relied on unaudited financial information to value entities with an aggregate reported worth of more than US$11.4 billion. Auditors said they were unable to verify whether appropriate adjustments had been applied to that data, creating further uncertainty over the accuracy of the reported investment values. A further breach was identified under IAS 21 after MIF translated Zimbabwe dollar (ZWG) financial information into United States dollars (USD) without first restating the ZWG statements for hyperinflation, as required by IAS 29. Auditors said some entities were translated using exchange rates they deemed inappropriate and that they could not determine the adjustments necessary to correct the misstated values. Despite these qualifications, Grant Thornton confirmed that, apart from the matters described, the financial statements were prepared in accordance with the Sovereign Wealth Fund of Zimbabwe Act. The report underscores the scale and complexity of consolidating dozens of state-owned enterprises into a single sovereign investment vehicle and signals significant work ahead to harmonise accounting policies, perform fair-value assessments and restate hyperinflation-affected records. Observers say the findings will increase pressure on MIF to publish a clear remediation plan, commission independent valuations, and strengthen disclosure and governance practices in order to restore investor and public confidence.

The Mthwakazi Republic Party has condemned ethnically charged social media attacks on Warriors players Devine Lunga and Marvelous Nakamba following Zimbabwe’s Afcon exit ( image source ) The Mthwakazi Republic Party (MRP) has publicly condemned what it describes as ethnically charged attacks directed at Warriors players Devine Lunga and Marvelous Nakamba following Zimbabwe’s elimination from the Africa Cup of Nations after a 3–2 defeat to South Africa. The loss, which ended Zimbabwe’s campaign at the group stage, triggered a wave of social media commentary accusing the two players of deliberately undermining the national team. Some online users went as far as labelling them “sell-outs,” allegations that MRP leader Mqondisi Moyo said were unfounded and dangerously divisive. “Football is one of the few remaining spaces that can unite people across ethnicity, language and political belief,” Moyo said in a statement. “It is deeply troubling when the outcome of a single match is exploited to advance tribal hostility, historical distortion and political provocation.” Moyo argued that Zimbabwe’s defeat was the result of ordinary football dynamics — tactical decisions, individual brilliance and human error — rather than ethnic allegiance or political intent. He criticised the singling out of Lunga and Nakamba, both of Ndebele origin, saying their treatment reflected broader unresolved tensions rather than legitimate sporting analysis. “No evidence has been presented to suggest that these players deliberately threw the match,” Moyo said. “Until lawful football authorities conclude otherwise, they remain professional athletes who represented their country in good faith.” Warriors Fans were quick to blame Nakamba, Lunga And Arubi For AFCON Exit ( image source ) The controversy intensified after some online commentators drew comparisons between the players and 19th-century Ndebele King Lobengula, invoking a long-standing colonial narrative that portrays the monarch as having “sold out” his people. Moyo described the comparison as historically inaccurate and inflammatory. “King Lobengula did not sell out the Ndebele nation,” he said. “Colonial agreements were extracted through deception and misrepresentation. The ‘sell-out’ narrative was crafted to justify conquest and land dispossession.” He warned that the casual use of such language risks reinforcing harmful stereotypes and escalating social tensions. According to Moyo, history shows that violence often begins with dehumanising speech, particularly when political grievances remain unresolved. The MRP linked the backlash to deeper historical and political issues, noting that Matabeleland and Mashonaland were amalgamated during the colonial period without popular consent. Moyo said that when structural grievances are left unaddressed, symbolic spaces such as sport can become arenas for broader contestation. Despite its political stance advocating self-determination, the MRP stressed that its rejection of tribal hostility is unequivocal. Moyo said that in a hypothetical restored Mthwakazi state, sport would not be ethnicised, athletes would not be profiled, and history would not be weaponised. “Devine Lunga and Marvelous Nakamba are footballers, not symbols of betrayal,” he said. “Football must never become a tribunal for unresolved political grievances.” The statement comes amid broader calls for restraint and unity following Zimbabwe’s Afcon exit, with football analysts and former players also urging supporters to separate sporting disappointment from political and ethnic narratives.

Bulawayo City Council distributed over 225,000 male condoms in September and October 2025 while reaching more than 130,000 people through health education campaigns ( image source ) BULAWAYO — The Bulawayo City Council’s Health Promotion Unit reported the distribution of 225,820 male condoms across the city during September and October 2025, compared with 13,548 female condoms over the same period, according to the unit’s October report. Distribution data showed that 131,820 male condoms were issued in September and 94,000 in October, while female condom distribution stood at 6,543 in September and 7,005 in October. The figures were presented by Director of Health Services Edwin Mzingwane on 6 November. The report also highlighted an intensive schedule of health education activities. The unit conducted 2,948 health education sessions in September and 2,919 in October, reaching 71,047 people in September and 60,844 in October. Social and Behaviour Change Communication initiatives included eight radio infomercials aired on Skyz Metro and Khulumani FM, focusing on the Measles Rubella Campaign, Vitamin A supplementation, routine immunisation, breast cancer awareness and mental health. This highlights progress and ongoing gaps in female condom uptake ( image source ) Community outreach efforts included public announcements on the Measles Rubella Campaign and suspected cases of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease, alongside the development of information materials for service providers and residents. Bulawayo Metropolitan Province participated in the nationwide Measles/Rubella follow-up campaign from 6–10 October 2025, integrating catch-up routine immunisations and Vitamin A supplementation. The campaign targeted children aged 9–59 months for measles-rubella vaccination and children aged 6–59 months for Vitamin A, with the aim of closing immunity gaps and preventing disease outbreaks. Health officials said the combined distribution and education drive reflects a dual approach of supplying prevention commodities while reinforcing public awareness. However, they also acknowledged the persistent disparity between male and female condom uptake. Observers noted that increasing access to and acceptance of female condoms remains a priority for reproductive health programming, particularly to expand options for women’s protection and autonomy.

Walter Mzembi’s family has dismissed social media claims that the former minister died in custody ( image source ) HARARE — Family members and close associates of former Tourism and Foreign Affairs minister Walter Mzembi have dismissed social media reports claiming he died in detention, saying the former cabinet minister is alive but enduring difficult conditions in custody. A relative described the death reports as “malicious and irresponsible,” saying the rumours were circulating without regard for the impact on Mzembi’s children and wider family. “That’s fake news circulating on social media by unscrupulous individuals who lie about people’s lives,” the family member said, adding: “Mzembi is alive, but obviously his situation is extremely difficult and has had a negative impact on his health. He is, however, soldiering on.” Mzembi was arrested on 13 June 2025 shortly after returning to Zimbabwe from a seven-year self-imposed exile. He remains in remand prison after both the magistrates’ court and the High Court denied bail, citing a risk that he could abscond given his prior absence from the country. They confirmed he is alive and in high spirits but facing difficult conditions as legal proceedings continue ( image source ) The outstanding warrants relate to corruption and abuse of office allegations, including the alleged misappropriation of television sets reportedly worth about US$2 million intended for public viewing during the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and the alleged misuse of US$1.6 million earmarked for the 2013 UNWTO General Assembly jointly hosted by Zimbabwe and Zambia. Speculation about Mzembi’s health has circulated since his detention, with some sources claiming he may be critically ill and possibly suffering a recurrence of colon cancer. The family has not confirmed those medical claims, saying only that incarceration has adversely affected his health. At the time of publication, neither the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service nor the Ministry of Justice had issued a comment on the social media reports or on Mzembi’s medical condition. Legal observers and rights groups have urged that any health concerns be addressed transparently and that due process be respected as the criminal proceedings continue.

Zimbabwe’s push to unlock digital monetisation for content creators raises questions around financial reform, platform risk, data trust and the appropriate role of the state in the creator economy ( image source ) Government efforts to unlock digital monetisation opportunities for Zimbabwean content creators have entered the national policy arena, following a detailed public explanation by Information Ministry Permanent Secretary Nick Mangwana on the barriers preventing local creators from earning on global platforms. Mangwana outlined what he described as three critical “keys” to monetisation: removal of platform geo-restrictions, access to international payment gateways, and verification recognition for Zimbabwean documents. His comments followed ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera’s engagements with global technology firms, including Meta and Google. The intervention marks a notable shift, bringing the technical realities of the creator economy into formal policy discourse. For years, Zimbabwean digital creators have operated on the margins, relying on workarounds such as VPNs, diaspora accounts and offshore intermediaries to access advertising revenue. Mangwana’s diagnosis of the problem has been widely accepted within the tech community. However, analysts caution that the proposed solution—high-level state intervention—raises important questions about risk perception, regulatory reform and the appropriate role of government. Global platforms do not exclude countries arbitrarily. Access decisions are based on compliance, financial stability and regulatory risk. As such, when the Zimbabwean government seeks to negotiate access, it is effectively seeking endorsement of its financial and legal systems. The challenge becomes particularly acute around payment gateways. Platforms such as PayPal and Wise prioritise low-risk, automated settlement environments. Zimbabwe’s complex exchange controls and currency volatility remain structural deterrents that diplomacy alone cannot resolve. Analysts argue that meaningful progress will require domestic financial reforms that create predictable, frictionless pathways for cross-border payments. Without this, negotiations risk addressing symptoms rather than causes. Equally sensitive is the issue of verification. While recognising national identity documents is essential for fraud prevention, creators have expressed concern that closer integration with state databases could facilitate surveillance or future taxation without adequate safeguards. ( image source ) Trust, observers say, will depend on transparency. Creators need clarity on what data is shared, how it is used, and whether verification processes will remain strictly commercial rather than regulatory or political. There is also concern about the state positioning itself as an intermediary between creators and platforms. The global digital economy thrives on decentralisation, and critics warn against licensing regimes or administrative bottlenecks that could undermine creator autonomy. Many in the sector argue that creators themselves should be included in negotiations. Zimbabwean developers, YouTubers and influencers have spent years navigating platform rules and understand operational friction points better than policy briefs. Beyond monetisation, structural issues remain. Affordable high-speed internet, reliable electricity and enforceable intellectual property rights are prerequisites for sustainable digital production. Monetisation is the endpoint, not the foundation. Nonetheless, observers acknowledge a positive shift in tone. The state increasingly frames the internet not solely as a regulatory challenge but as an economic resource. If negotiations reduce barriers without introducing new controls, they could materially expand opportunities for young Zimbabweans. Whether this moment results in genuine access or symbolic engagement will depend on implementation, reform and sustained dialogue with the very creators the policy aims to support.

Daring the odds is key! As an entrepreneur or hustler, you’ve probably heard the phrase “opportunity knocks”, but then what happens when it doesn’t? William Arthur Ward is on record for saying that opportunities are like sunrises — if you wait too long, you miss them. Similarly, Jack Ma asserts that you can’t wait for opportunities; you’ve got to go out and make them happen. Frederick Douglass further argues that opportunities are within every man’s reach, on every hand, and every moment. Here in Zimbabwe, where the economy is dynamic, fluid and ever-changing, waiting for opportunities to come to you can be a recipe for stagnation. Instead, you have to be the radical entrepreneur or hustler who takes matters into their own hands and builds a door. You have to create your own opportunities, even if it means taking the road not yet travelled before. Identify Gaps, Create Opportunities. If you look around you, you’ll see gaps in the market, unmet needs and untapped potential. Identify these gaps and create opportunities. Ask yourself: What problems do people face in my community? What products or services are in short supply? How can I innovate or disrupt existing industries? This is how platforms such as InDrive and Uber took the transport market by storm — by addressing glaring travel gaps that needed replacing. Network, Network, Network. Build relationships with people from different industries, backgrounds and areas of expertise. Attend seminars, exhibitions, shows and conferences, or join online business groups. Engage with thought leaders and trendsetters to expand your exposure and access new opportunities. Develop a Unique Skillset. Acquire in-demand skills, particularly short micro-credentials, such as artificial intelligence (AI), digital marketing, coding or data analysis. These skills increase your value to potential partners or clients. Many of these competencies can be self-taught using platforms such as YouTube. Take Calculated Risks. Do not be afraid to take risks and experiment with new ideas. Failure is not an endpoint but a stepping stone to success. Collaborate and Partner. Find like-minded entrepreneurs or businesses to collaborate with. Pool resources, share expertise and build something bigger than you could achieve alone. Stay Informed and Adapt. Keep up-to-date with industry trends, news and innovations. Adapt quickly to changes and pivot when necessary to remain relevant. Leverage Social Media. Use platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook and LinkedIn to promote your business, share your expertise and connect with potential clients. Start Small, Scale Fast. Do not wait for perfection. Start with a minimum viable product and refine it as you grow. Customer-Centric Approach. Focus on solving real problems for your customers, and they will become your biggest advocates and brand ambassadors. In Zimbabwe, entrepreneurs like yourself are building doors and creating opportunities every day. By being proactive, innovative and adaptable, you can do the same. The question remains: what door or doors will you build today? Professor Mufaro Gunduza coaches and mentors Business Intelligence at Mount Carmel Institute (Harare), Indian School of Management (New Mumbai) and UNISA, among others. 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: +263 774 868 896, Phone: +263 718 925 350, Email: mgunduza@yahoo.co.uk.

Mbizi Police Post’s nomination as a National Monument highlights Zimbabwe’s push toward township-based heritage tourism ( image source ) HARARE — As Zimbabwe seeks to diversify its tourism offering beyond wildlife and resort destinations, heritage sites embedded within urban townships are gaining renewed strategic attention. The nomination of Mbizi Police Post in Highfields for National Monument status illustrates how liberation heritage is increasingly being positioned as an economic and developmental asset. Policy planners involved in the process describe Mbizi as a potential pilot for “township heritage tourism,” an approach that integrates heritage institutions, local authorities and surrounding communities to generate inclusive economic value. The model aligns the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe (NMMZ), the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority and municipal stakeholders around historically significant sites located within lived urban spaces rather than isolated conservation zones. Mbizi Police Post occupies a strategic position in old Highfields, a suburb long associated with political mobilisation, cultural expression and nationalist leadership. The area is already home to sites such as Cyril Jennings Hall, which hosted key political meetings during the liberation era. Heritage specialists argue that linking Mbizi with these landmarks into a coherent heritage route could strengthen domestic tourism, educational visits and diaspora engagement. Development objectives outlined in the nomination dossier, seen by Southerton Business Times, place strong emphasis on community participation. Proposed activities include guided tours, heritage exhibitions, on-site education programmes and youth-led interpretation initiatives. If implemented, these could create small-scale enterprise opportunities in guiding, crafts, performance and hospitality within Highfields itself. The dossier also frames heritage preservation as a youth empowerment tool. By situating liberation history within everyday township environments, planners aim to deepen historical awareness while creating employment pathways linked to culture and tourism. Officials involved argue that this approach supports national priorities around youth development, identity formation and social cohesion. Significant investment will, however, be required to realise this potential. While the main administrative building remains structurally sound, the former detention cell complex has deteriorated, with damaged floors, broken plumbing and missing fittings. Sections of the perimeter fence have also collapsed, raising concerns around security and controlled visitor access. Once gazetted as a National Monument, Mbizi Police Post would be listed on the Northern Region Historic Buildings Register and fall under NMMZ oversight. Any alterations would require formal approval, a framework intended to balance commercial use with the protection of historical integrity while allowing adaptive reuse for tourism and education. Comparative assessments place Mbizi alongside former detention centres such as Chikurubi and WhaWha prisons, which are widely recognised for their historical importance. What distinguishes Mbizi is its location within a residential township, making it a practical test case for community-anchored heritage tourism. As Zimbabwe’s tourism strategy increasingly emphasises cultural depth and authenticity, Mbizi Police Post offers an opportunity to convert difficult history into structured economic participation. The challenge now lies in moving from nomination to investment, and from remembrance to sustainable value creation.

Zimbabwe government grants Prevail exclusive rights to a river rehabilitation pilot in Mazowe ( image source ) HARARE — The Government has granted Prevail Group of Companies, owned by businessman Paul Tungwarara, exclusive rights to carry out river rehabilitation works on the Muroodzi River in Mazowe, effectively suspending other river rehabilitation activities across the country, documents seen by Southerton Business Times show. A Cabinet directive circulated to provincial ministers authorises Prevail to implement the Muroodzi project as a prototype while the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife develops national guidelines. The directive further instructs that no other company be awarded river rehabilitation contracts pending the gazetting of a Statutory Instrument to operationalise the Polluter Pays Principle. According to the directive, all alluvial mining and river ecosystem rehabilitation programmes are suspended until further notice, with Prevail designated as the sole firm cleared to work on the Muroodzi prototype. Provincial ministers were explicitly told not to award any river rehabilitation contracts outside the approved pilot until further guidance is issued. The move has raised concern among environmental services firms and market analysts, who argue that the directive effectively excludes competitors and risks creating a de facto monopoly in a sector that has attracted growing private interest. “This is a de facto monopoly,” an executive at an environmental services firm said. “If government wants a pilot project, it should be competitively procured and independently evaluated.” ( image source ) Prevail’s expanding footprint in state-funded projects has already drawn scrutiny. The company has been associated with high-profile contracts including refurbishment works at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, the Presidential Borehole Scheme, the Mt Hampden Cyber City development, and construction projects at State House and Zimbabwe House. In September 2025, a parliamentary portfolio committee accused Prevail International of underperformance after inspections in Chivi District found several village business units and boreholes incomplete or non-functional. Former Finance minister Tendai Biti criticised the river rehabilitation directive for what he described as a lack of transparency and parliamentary oversight. “Parliament must stand up to such issues. Civil society and citizens must also speak out,” Biti said, warning that opaque procurement processes undermine public confidence and service delivery. The controversy comes against the backdrop of repeated warnings by acting President Constantino Chiwenga about economic capture by a small, politically connected elite. Chiwenga has publicly called for clean governance, accountability and the protection of public resources from abuse. Government officials maintain that the forthcoming Polluter Pays Principle framework will compel miners responsible for environmental degradation to fund rehabilitation efforts. Analysts caution, however, that the credibility of any such programme will depend on transparency, competitive procurement and demonstrable environmental outcomes, rather than exclusive mandates granted to a single firm. Questions sent to Paul Tungwarara, Mines and Mining Development minister Polite Kambamura, permanent secretary Pfwungwa Kunaka and Environment minister Evelyn Ndhlovu had not been answered at the time of publication. Observers say the next critical steps should include a clear timeline for the statutory framework, publication of procurement criteria for the prototype project, and independent monitoring to ensure the pilot delivers measurable environmental benefits without entrenching single-firm dominance.

South Africa’s Hawks say their investigation into the R1,1 billion Zimbabwe election procurement payments remains active ( image source ) JOHANNESBURG — South Africa’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks) has confirmed that its probe into the R1,1 billion (about US$67,25 million) Zimbabwe election procurement scandal remains active, despite public claims in Zimbabwe that the matter had been closed. The investigation focuses on payments made by Zimbabwe’s Treasury to South African firm Ren Form CC for the supply of election materials during Zimbabwe’s 2023 general elections, transactions later flagged by South Africa’s Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) as suspicious. The Hawks’ stance contrasts with earlier statements by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (Zacc), which said it had found no evidence linking businessman Wicknell Chivayo to the payments. However, Hawks national spokesperson Thandi Mbambo said decisions taken in another jurisdiction do not bind South African investigators. She confirmed that the Hawks are analysing suspicious transaction reports compiled by the FIC and shared with multiple agencies, including the South African Revenue Service, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority and Zimbabwe’s Financial Intelligence Unit. Persons of interest, she said, would only be formally identified once sufficient evidence has been gathered. ( image source ) The controversy centres on the procurement of election materials by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec), which awarded the contract to Ren Form CC. Questions have persisted over the absence of a competitive tender process. The FIC later flagged Ren Form CC for allegedly inflating invoices and transferring substantial sums to several companies, including Intratrek Holdings, Dolintel Trading Enterprise, Edenbreeze, Asibambane Platinum Group and Agile Venture Capital, triggering money-laundering concerns under South African law. Sources in Pretoria said they have received no official communication confirming that Zimbabwean investigations into Chivayo were concluded. Zacc has not responded to requests for clarification on whether it communicated its findings to South African authorities, while Ren Form CC and Zec had not commented at the time of publication. The case highlights the challenges of cross-border financial investigations involving public procurement and election financing, with the Hawks’ confirmation ensuring the matter remains legally and politically unresolved.

Zambian police have identified an American tourist whose body was recovered from the Victoria Falls gorge ( image source ) LIVINGSTONE — Zambian police have identified the body recovered from the Victoria Falls gorge as that of Christopher Gibbs, a 49-year-old American tourist who entered Zambia earlier this month. Southern Province Police Commanding Officer Moono Namalongo said Gibbs entered the country through the Victoria Falls Border Post on 5 January 2026 and was later reported missing after failing to return to his accommodation. A coordinated search and recovery operation involving the Zambia Police Service, Zimbabwe Republic Police, the Zambia Army Marine Unit, the Zambia Air Force and the Livingstone City Council Fire Brigade was launched following the report. The body was retrieved from a known danger point within the gorge after police divers undertook a hazardous descent using ropes. Once secured, the body was placed on a stretcher and hauled to the surface. Initial observations indicate injuries consistent with a fall from height. The remains have been taken to Batoka Mortuary at Livingstone University Teaching Hospital pending further forensic examinations. Namalongo said investigations into the circumstances surrounding Gibbs’s death are ongoing. He conveyed condolences to the family and said further details would be released as they become available. Gibbs entered Zambia through the Victoria Falls Border Post on January 5, 2026, and was reported missing by his Victoria Falls accommodation lodge after failing to return ( image source ) Authorities have again urged tourists to exercise caution when visiting Victoria Falls, stressing the importance of remaining within designated viewing areas and observing safety guidelines. The terrain around the gorge is considered highly hazardous, particularly in areas not intended for public access. The incident follows other isolated but serious tourist accidents in the Victoria Falls area in recent years. In November 2025, an American tourist drowned during a white-water rafting excursion on the Zambezi River below the falls, while in 2021 an Australian tourist went missing near Victoria Falls National Park, prompting an extensive search operation. Tourism operators in the region said they would cooperate fully with investigators and reiterated the need for strict adherence to safety briefings by visitors. Community leaders and stakeholders also highlighted the risks faced by rescue teams operating in difficult terrain and called for continued investment in safety infrastructure, signage and visitor education.

A Harare magistrate has convicted former MDPCZ registrar Dr Collin Benyure of perjury ( image source ) HARARE — A Harare magistrate has convicted former Registrar of the Medical and Dental Practitioners Council of Zimbabwe (MDPCZ), Dr Collin Benyure, of perjury, in a ruling that underscores the legal limits of institutional authority and the obligations of witnesses under oath. Dr Benyure (64) was found guilty of contravening Section 183 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23], which criminalises the making of false statements under oath during judicial proceedings. He is expected to be sentenced today. The conviction stems from testimony Dr Benyure gave on 22 May 2024 while appearing as a defence witness in a separate criminal case involving allegations of cyber bullying. During that testimony, he stated under oath that he had authority to represent and speak on behalf of the MDPCZ. The State later challenged that assertion, arguing that no formal council resolution existed authorising him to testify on the council’s behalf. During the perjury trial, prosecutors produced documentary evidence from the MDPCZ confirming that no such authority had been granted. In delivering judgment, Magistrate Donald Ndirowei ruled that the State had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt. He held that statutory bodies, as juristic persons, can only act through formally authorised resolutions, and that holding a senior administrative position does not automatically confer authority to represent an institution in court. “The claim of inherent authority based solely on office is legally indefensible,” the magistrate ruled. Evidence presented showed that the original matter arose from a complaint lodged in 2023 by Dr Andrew Mataruse, who reported alleged cyber bullying. The case was investigated by the CID Commercial Crimes Division (Northern Region), leading to the arrest and prosecution of Lenon Tonderai Gwaunza. When Dr Benyure testified in that matter, he stated during cross-examination that he was appearing on behalf of the MDPCZ. The issue was subsequently reported to police, prompting investigations into the accuracy of that claim. Police requested a council resolution authorising Dr Benyure’s representation. In a response dated 6 February 2025, the MDPCZ confirmed that it had not passed any resolution authorising him, even in his capacity as Acting Registrar, to testify as a defence witness in the case. The court accepted the State’s argument that Dr Benyure knowingly misled the court, citing his experience, seniority and familiarity with governance procedures applicable to statutory bodies. Legal analysts say the ruling has broader implications for governance and accountability within professional councils and public institutions. It reinforces the principle that institutional authority must be explicit, documented and procedurally sound, particularly in judicial proceedings. For professionals who regularly engage with the courts, the judgment serves as a reminder that accuracy under oath is both a legal and ethical obligation, regardless of past office or institutional standing.

An OAFLAD programme in Chipinge is supporting vulnerable girls and young mothers through cash stipends, health education and skills training ( image source ) CHIPINGE — In a cramped room at Checheche Growth Point, 16-year-old Chipo nurses a nine-month-old baby while carrying a second pregnancy at five months. Her story reflects the harsh realities facing many vulnerable girls in Chipinge district, where poverty, early motherhood and limited options have driven some into transactional sex as a means of survival. Chipo’s experience came to light during a media tour organised by the National Aids Council (NAC) in partnership with the Organisation of African First Ladies on Development (OAFLAD), led locally by First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa. The OAFLAD programme targets young mothers and women engaged in transactional sex, offering small cash stipends, health education and skills training aimed at reducing vulnerability and restoring dignity. “I was a mess,” Chipo said. “I was into sex work to feed my baby and care for my sick mother. OAFLAD took me under their wing. They gave me hope and support and helped me see that I am worth fighting for.” ( image source ) Officials say Checheche has become a hotspot for risky survival strategies among adolescent girls, driven by economic hardship and limited access to education and livelihoods. NAC youth officer for Chipinge, Yolanda Gwizo, said poverty has pushed many girls into unsafe sexual relationships, contributing to high rates of teenage pregnancy and exposure to HIV and other infections. Under the programme, beneficiaries receive a monthly cash transfer of US$10, alongside regular health education sessions focused on HIV prevention and reproductive health. The initiative also links participants to social services and works with traditional leaders, the Ministry of Health and Child Care, education authorities and the police to strengthen child protection and referral systems. Another beneficiary, Privilege (15), said she became the main provider for her family after losing both parents. Transactional sex, she said, became a way to keep her younger siblings in school. “I never wanted this, but there was no one else to help us,” she said. Community leaders and health officials welcomed the OAFLAD intervention but cautioned that short-term assistance must be complemented by sustainable economic solutions. Headman Zamuchiya called for expanded livelihood projects, improved access to reproductive health services and stronger school retention programmes to address the root causes of vulnerability. Experts say broader youth empowerment initiatives, vocational training and family-level economic support will be critical to reducing reliance on transactional sex and protecting adolescent girls from exploitation. For beneficiaries like Chipo and Privilege, the programme has provided immediate relief and a tentative path toward stability, even as longer-term solutions remain essential.