A parliamentary audit has flagged a ZWG204,091.69 variance in Chiredzi West CDF spending, citing undocumented expenditures and the use of a personal bank account for public funds ( image source ) MOUNT HAMPDEN — A parliamentary audit has raised serious concerns over the management of Constituency Development Fund (CDF) resources in Chiredzi West after uncovering a ZWG204,091.69 expenditure variance that auditors say could not be supported by documentation. The audit also flagged the use of a sitting legislator’s personal bank account for handling public funds. The audit, conducted between 21 and 24 October 2025, examined the utilisation of ZWG1,332,430 (approximately US$50,000) allocated to Chiredzi West for nine development projects. Its findings were formally submitted to the Clerk of Parliament, the CDF Management Committee, the Accountant General and the Auditor-General. According to the report, the constituency’s Member of Parliament, Hon. Darlington Chiwa, transferred the full CDF allocation into his personal bank account, allegedly to “facilitate swipe transactions.” Auditors noted that the move was undertaken without documented approval from the Constituency Development Committee (CDC), contrary to CDF governance requirements. A reconciliation of bank statements and available invoices showed that ZWG1,149,532.14 was spent on materials, labour and transport, while ZWG55,527.50 was attributed to exchange-rate variances incurred when converting funds to meet United States dollar obligations. However, auditors said ZWG204,091.69 could not be verified due to missing or incomplete supporting documentation. During a site inspection at Batanai Primary School, auditors observed six angle-iron bars but were not provided with invoices to support the purchase. The MP reportedly informed auditors that he had paid US$1,500 for carpentry work and US$600 for plastering, but no proof of payment was produced at the time of inspection. The audit also identified ZWG8,081.90 spent on ancillary expenses and noted incomplete accounting for the full ZWG66,621.50 allowed for administrative costs under the CDF constitution. At Monyoroka Primary School in Ward 27, only 10 of the 16 ZESA poles allocated for electrification had been delivered when auditors visited the site. The report recommends that Hon. Chiwa and the CDC urgently submit complete documentation for all CDF expenditures, formally update Parliament on any project scope adjustments, and immediately discontinue the use of personal bank accounts for managing public funds. It further calls for enhanced oversight mechanisms to ensure strict compliance with CDF governance rules. Contacted for comment, Hon. Chiwa dismissed the audit findings as politically motivated, saying he had already submitted supporting evidence to Parliament to explain the variance. “Beware of some elements within our party who are bent on causing divisions,” he said. Efforts to obtain comment from ZANU-PF Masvingo provincial chairperson Robson Mavhenyengwa were unsuccessful. The audit has renewed scrutiny over transparency and accountability in the administration of constituency development funds, with governance advocates calling for stronger controls, timely public disclosure and sanctions where misuse is established. Parliament is expected to review the findings and determine appropriate follow-up action.

Zimbabweans consistently excel abroad, not because their talent changes, but because systems work ( image source ) It is a story many Zimbabweans recognise instantly. A nurse leaves and soon manages a ward in the United Kingdom. A footballer crosses borders and signs for a competitive European league. An engineer relocates and finds themselves working on major infrastructure projects. The talent did not change — the environment did. Zimbabweans do not suddenly become smarter the moment they cross Beitbridge or pass through Heathrow. What changes are the systems around them. In functional economies, effort is rewarded, skills are utilised, and professional growth follows predictable rules. At home, the same potential often collides with fragile institutions, limited resources, and an economy that shifts direction without warning. In critical sectors such as health, sport and engineering, the constraints are well known. Public hospitals struggle with equipment shortages and staff retention. Local footballers battle underfunded structures and inconsistent pathways to professional growth. Across the public and private sectors, recruitment and promotion too often hinge on personal connections rather than competence. Over time, ambition gives way to survival. The result is not a lack of patriotism, but a rational response to structural frustration. For many Zimbabweans, leaving is less about chasing luxury and more about securing dignity, stability and professional recognition. If the country is serious about retaining talent — and even attracting back those already abroad — three shifts are unavoidable. First, economic stability must become non-negotiable. Professionals cannot plan careers, invest in skills or commit long-term when wages lose value and policy reversals are frequent. Second, meritocracy must be more than a slogan. Recruitment, promotion and opportunity must consistently reward ability and performance rather than familiarity or lineage. When skills are valued, people stay. Third, the diaspora must be engaged meaningfully. Many Zimbabweans abroad are willing to contribute skills, capital and networks, but bureaucratic hurdles and unclear channels often discourage genuine engagement. Simple, transparent pathways would turn goodwill into impact. None of this is radical. It requires political will, institutional reform and a commitment to long-term thinking. Without these, Zimbabwe will continue exporting its brightest minds while applauding their success from a distance. Zimbabweans have proven they can thrive anywhere. The unresolved question is whether their own country will ever allow them to do so at home. Simbarashe Namusi is a peace, leadership and governance scholar as well as media expert. He writes in his personal capacity.

NRZ has delayed December 2025 salaries and 2025 bonuses, citing financial constraints, with management outlining a phased payment plan expected to conclude by late January 2026 ( image source ) The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has notified employees that it will not meet its obligations to pay December 2025 salaries and 2025 annual bonuses on schedule, citing persistent financial challenges that have constrained cash availability at year-end. In an internal notice dated 31 December 2025, acting general manager Dube Kaguru said November salaries had been fully paid, but the organisation was unable to immediately disburse December wages or bonus payments. She said NRZ plans to begin paying December salaries in the week starting 5 January 2026, with full settlement of both ZWG and USD components expected by 23 January 2026. Annual bonuses will be paid after salary arrears are cleared. “The delay has been due to financial challenges which continue to constrain the organisation,” Kaguru wrote, urging staff to remain patient as management works to stabilise cash flows. She reiterated that the approved December salary structure will be split evenly, with 50 percent paid in ZWG and 50 percent in USD. The announcement drew concern from employees and unions, who said the timing during the festive season would place additional strain on households already grappling with high living costs. Union representatives called for urgent engagement between NRZ management, the Ministry of Transport and Treasury to secure emergency funding and provide a clear repayment timetable. Analysts say NRZ’s cash shortfall reflects broader pressures facing state-owned enterprises, including reduced freight volumes, ageing infrastructure, maintenance backlogs and rising operating costs. Once a backbone of Zimbabwe’s freight logistics—particularly for mining and agricultural exports—NRZ has seen revenues eroded by years of underinvestment and service disruptions. Industry stakeholders warned that prolonged payroll delays could undermine staff morale and operational readiness at a time when dependable rail services are critical to supply chains. “Delays in paying staff risk absenteeism and reduced productivity, which can further weaken revenue generation—a vicious cycle for any transport operator,” a logistics executive said. Government sources indicated that discussions are underway to prioritise short-term liquidity support while advancing longer-term reforms to restore NRZ’s commercial viability. Proposed measures include tariff adjustments, public-private partnerships for rolling stock and infrastructure rehabilitation, and tighter cost controls. For now, employees have been asked to await further communication from management. Kaguru appealed for continued professionalism and patience as the organisation navigates the financial strain, adding that updates would be provided as payment timelines firm up.

Government has distributed grocery hampers to elderly people and persons with disabilities in Beitbridge ( image source ) As the New Year begins, the Government has extended social support to vulnerable communities in Beitbridge, distributing grocery hampers to the elderly and people living with disabilities under Chief Tshitaudze’s jurisdiction as part of ongoing social protection measures. The distribution exercise, carried out in late December and continuing into early January, targeted households identified as most in need. Beneficiaries said the intervention provided timely relief at a period when many struggled to meet basic food requirements. “Government has really helped me. I received these groceries at a time when I had nothing to provide for the orphans I stay with,” one beneficiary said. Another elderly recipient said the assistance restored hope after a difficult festive season. “We were watching others celebrate while we had nothing, but now we are entering the New Year with renewed hope,” she said. Local leaders welcomed the initiative, describing it as an important boost to household food security and community wellbeing. Donsa Village Head Tamaha Langalanga said the hampers would help ensure that vulnerable residents had food on their tables. “We are grateful for this support. As a community, we work together to ensure no one is left behind,” he said. ZANU-PF Central Committee member Cde Metrine Mudau said the distribution symbolised unity and care, adding that the gesture helped bring families together during the festive period. Beitbridge Senator Honourable Tambudzani Mohadi reaffirmed Government’s commitment to safeguarding the right to food and dignity for vulnerable citizens. “We considered it important to uphold the right to food and a decent life, hence the provision of these hampers so they can celebrate the New Year with others,” she said. The programme forms part of the Second Republic’s broader social safety-net initiatives rolled out since 2017 to support vulnerable groups nationwide. Government officials say such targeted in-kind assistance complements longer-term policies aimed at economic inclusion and poverty reduction. Civil-society organisations welcomed the immediate relief but encouraged authorities to strengthen sustainability by pairing food aid with cash transfers, livelihood support and improved access to health and social services. Development practitioners noted that combining short-term assistance with resilience-building programmes would better protect households from future shocks. For beneficiaries in Chief Tshitaudze’s area, the grocery hampers provided a practical start to the year and reinforced the role of social protection as Zimbabwe pursues wider development goals.

Zimbabwe’s new tax regime takes effect after approval of the 2026 Budget, introducing changes to VAT, gaming taxes, mining royalties, digital services tax and other levies ( image source ) A new set of taxes and adjustments to existing levies will come into force from midnight following Parliament’s approval of the 2026 National Budget, marking a significant shift in Zimbabwe’s fiscal framework as Government moves to strengthen revenue mobilisation. The measures, which take effect on Thursday, include both economy-wide adjustments and sector-specific taxes. Among the key changes, the Intermediated Money Transfer Tax (IMTT) on local-currency transactions has been reduced from 2.0 percent to 1.5 percent. Treasury says the cut is intended to lower the cost of digital transactions while maintaining revenue collection from electronic payments. The gaming and betting sector faces one of the most substantial overhauls. Operators will now be taxed at 20 percent of gross monthly takings, while winnings earned by punters will attract a 25 percent tax. Government officials say the structure is designed to capture a larger share of revenue from the fast-growing gaming industry, though operators have warned that excessive taxation could drive activity into informal or unregulated markets if enforcement does not improve. In the extractive sector, a new 3 percent coal levy has been introduced as part of efforts to broaden the tax base across natural resources. Gold producers will move to a sliding royalty scale linked to international prices, with royalties set at 3 percent when prices are below US$1,200 per ounce, 5 percent when prices range between US$1,200 and US$2,500 per ounce, and 10 percent when prices exceed US$2,500 per ounce. Authorities say the structure is intended to cushion miners during low-price cycles while allowing the State to capture higher returns during commodity booms. Changes have also been introduced in the property and consumption space. Property owners leasing premises to businesses will be subject to presumptive rental income tax at 15 percent of rentals paid by tenants operating commercial activities. Value Added Tax (VAT) has been increased from 15 percent to 15.5 percent, while a 15 percent Digital Services Tax will now apply to e-commerce transactions, reflecting Government’s intention to more effectively tax digital economic activity. Treasury officials described the package as a calibrated approach aimed at supporting priority programmes under the National Development Strategy while maintaining macroeconomic stability. They said some measures, such as the IMTT reduction, were designed to balance revenue needs with the cost of doing business. Reactions from stakeholders were mixed. Business associations raised concerns that the presumptive rental tax could increase costs for small and medium enterprises. Mining industry players welcomed the price-sensitive gold royalty system but called for clarity on implementation. Gaming operators indicated they would seek further engagement on compliance requirements and the potential impact on employment and investment. Tax analysts said the VAT increase and the introduction of a digital services tax are likely to broaden the tax base, but warned that effective administration, enforcement and taxpayer compliance will be critical to achieving projected revenue targets. They also urged Government to demonstrate transparency in how additional revenue will be used to improve public services and infrastructure. As the new tax regime takes effect, businesses and individuals have been advised to review their tax positions and engage the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority for guidance on compliance and implementation details.

Three Harare men have been convicted in Chinhoyi for illegal mining and theft of mining equipment ( image source ) Three Harare men have been convicted at the Chinhoyi Magistrates’ Court on charges of illegal mining and theft of mining equipment following a dispute over mining rights and ownership. The convicted men are Nelson Mukwazhi (37) of Tynwald North, Takunda Mazambani (35) of Hogerty Hill in Borrowdale, and Tatenda Nhumbe (32) of Masasa Park. The case was prosecuted by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). According to the State, the complainant had engaged the three men in July 2025 with the intention of establishing a mining joint venture. However, no written agreement was concluded, and the complainant later proceeded to operate the mine independently. Despite the absence of a formal agreement or authorisation, the trio allegedly brought an excavator onto the mining site and commenced operations. The court heard that on 24 July 2025, Mukwazhi and Mazambani misrepresented themselves as authorised miners and extracted 28.22 grammes of gold from the site. The gold was later sold in Chinhoyi for US$2,768. Two days later, the men again misrepresented to mine security personnel that they had authority to remove property from the premises, resulting in the removal of mining equipment, including a 10,000-litre water tank. Investigations revealed that the stolen equipment was transported to Mutsvairo Village in the Dema area of Seke, where the water tank was later recovered. Following a full trial, the court found all three men guilty. They were sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment, with three years suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour. A further three years were suspended on condition that restitution amounting to US$114,000 is paid. This leaves an effective sentence of two years’ imprisonment. The NPA said the case highlights the serious legal consequences associated with unauthorised mining activities and the unlawful removal of property.

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.

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.

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.