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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dokwe Mine By Staff Reporter UK‑listed Ariana Resources and Hong Kong Xinhai Mining Services are finalising technical services agreements to accelerate the Dokwe Gold Project in Zimbabwe, after Xinhai completed the first tranche of a binding strategic investment. The Chinese mining group acquired a 10.19% stake in Ariana through Tranche 1, delivering AU$8 million (US$5.57 million) in immediate funding to support working capital, metallurgical test work, and the definitive feasibility study (DFS). Under the December binding agreement, Xinhai has committed up to AU$11 million (US$7.66 million) via a mix of equity and technical services to progress Dokwe toward production. Ariana says the strategic investment is designed to accelerate the DFS programme and position Dokwe for rapid development. The partnership grants Xinhai the right, subject to regulatory approvals, to nominate a director to Ariana’s board, signalling a deeper operational and governance role for the Chinese partner. Further tranches of funding are contingent on the achievement of technical and feasibility milestones, aligning investor support with project delivery. The immediate AU$8 million injection is earmarked for critical pre‑development activities: detailed metallurgical test work to refine recoveries and processing routes, expanded resource definition where required, and completion of the DFS, the document that underpins capital estimates, mine design, and financing plans. Ariana emphasised that Xinhai brings global delivery capacity for large‑scale mining projects and already maintains a substantial presence in Zimbabwe, making it a pragmatic partner for advancing Dokwe. Shareholders will consider resolutions related to the strategic investment and future equity issues at Ariana’s general meeting scheduled for 25 February. The company has circulated notices on the ASX and AIM outlining the terms of the binding definitive agreement signed on 22 December 2025. Ariana framed the deal as an opportunity to “build a lasting partnership capable of unlocking the value of the Dokwe Project through the acceleration of the definitive feasibility study programme, with a view to progressing Dokwe to production as swiftly as possible.” Market observers note several potential benefits and risks. On the positive side, the partnership provides immediate funding, technical support, and a pathway to de‑risk the DFS phase, a common bottleneck for junior miners seeking project finance. Xinhai’s technical services could shorten timelines and improve the robustness of metallurgical and processing assumptions, enhancing bankability. The ability to nominate a board director also offers Xinhai influence over strategic decisions, which can align incentives but may raise governance questions for minority shareholders. Risks include execution and integration challenges, regulatory approvals for foreign board representation, and the conditional nature of further funding tranches tied to technical milestones. Ariana will need to demonstrate clear progress against DFS deliverables to unlock subsequent tranches and to attract project financing for construction. Ariana and Xinhai are reportedly negotiating the scope and terms of the Technical Services Agreements that will define deliverables, timelines, and performance metrics for the DFS. If approved by shareholders and regulators, the partnership could materially advance Dokwe from study to development, offering a near‑term pathway to production that would contribute to Zimbabwe’s mining sector growth and local economic activity.

Germany’s ambassador Christoph Retzlaff outlines Zimbabwe–EU trade growth, German investment levels and progress on BIPPA compensation as key to restoring investor confidence ( image source ) Germany’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Christoph Retzlaff, has highlighted recent developments in bilateral economic relations, including the start of compensation payments to foreign investors affected by the 2000 farm expropriations under Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreements (BIPPAs). In an interview, Ambassador Retzlaff framed the compensation process and broader reforms as essential steps toward restoring investor confidence and unlocking foreign direct investment. Retzlaff, who took up his post in late 2025, said his early impressions of Zimbabwe were shaped by the country’s cultural heritage and hospitality, singling out Great Zimbabwe as a standout destination. He described the bilateral trade relationship as growing: EU–Zimbabwe trade reached about €900 million in 2025, with Zimbabwe enjoying a positive trade balance. Trade between Germany and Zimbabwe was €175 million in 2024, and Retzlaff said there is significant untapped potential across multiple sectors. A central theme of the ambassador’s remarks was the importance of stability, transparency and predictability for investment. He argued that German companies are actively seeking to diversify supply chains and reduce dependencies, creating opportunities for African partners. Retzlaff pointed to the upcoming German Africa Business Summit in Accra in October 2026 as a platform to connect German business interests with African markets, and urged Zimbabwe to position itself to attract such interest. ( image source ) On investment flows, Retzlaff said German direct investment in Zimbabwe currently stands at €18 million, concentrated mainly in horticulture and agriculture. He acknowledged this is modest compared with historical levels and stressed that rebuilding investor confidence will require consistent policy signals and improved governance. Germany’s development cooperation portfolio in Zimbabwe totals €9 million, with an annual programme of €4 million focused on renewable energy and good governance. The ambassador confirmed that Zimbabwe began compensation payments in early 2025 under BIPPAs for farmers expropriated in 2000, noting that about 40 German farmers were affected. He described the payments as part of a “Structured Dialogue” led by the African Development Bank and said the government aims to complete compensation by 2028. Retzlaff framed the move as a milestone that could help normalise relations with Western partners and facilitate access to finance and markets. Retzlaff acknowledged macro-political and economic volatility remains a constraint for investors, but he emphasised that German businesses are looking for predictable legal and regulatory frameworks. He encouraged Zimbabwe to pursue reforms that enhance transparency, protect property rights and streamline investment procedures. If such conditions are met, he said, German firms already active across Africa would be more inclined to expand their presence in Zimbabwe. The ambassador’s comments underline a pragmatic approach: compensation and policy clarity are necessary but not sufficient; sustained engagement, institutional reforms and credible implementation will determine whether Zimbabwe can translate recent diplomatic progress into durable investment and trade gains.

A dispute in Gokwe over unpaid school fees escalates after reports of cattle seizures from parents, prompting community outcry, legal concerns and calls for fair, transparent recovery methods ( image source ) Dusty roads and anxious households in Gokwe have become the backdrop to a bitter dispute over unpaid school fees that has exposed deepening economic strain and social tensions in rural Midlands. The controversy erupted after reports that cattle were being seized from parents to recover outstanding fees, and a leaked audio clip alleging that aides to Chief Misheck Njelele were involved in the collections intensified public alarm. In the circulated recording, villagers described heavy-handed debt-recovery tactics. One woman alleged that debt collectors summoned parents to the chief’s court, handcuffed them and confiscated cattle without proper legal authority. Others claimed cattle were taken and handed over to the chief, with some suggesting animals were later sold to middlemen. Voices in the audio questioned the legality and morality of the practice, arguing that many families are simply unable to meet fees amid rising poverty and large household sizes. The dispute centres on schools such as Mapfumo Primary School, established in 1956 and enrolling about 1,200 pupils, which the chief says is owed more than US$65,000. Chief Njelele defended his actions, saying he is protecting education standards and acting in the best interests of schools that face chronic arrears. He denied profiting from collections and said most cases were resolved when parents paid in cash and retrieved their animals. The chief also cited a directive from the Ministry of Education urging schools to engage parents through debt collectors rather than withholding results. Chief Njelele dismissed allegations of intimidation as exaggerated and suggested some complaints were driven by hidden agendas aimed at tarnishing his reputation. He said the matter is being handled by the Zimbabwe Republic Police in Gokwe and pledged transparency, proposing media-accompanied tours of future recovery exercises to demonstrate proper procedure. ( image source ) Police in the Midlands, however, say they have not received formal reports of illegal cattle seizures and urged anyone with evidence to come forward so investigations can proceed. Provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko said authorities would act impartially if complaints are lodged. The episode highlights structural pressures on rural schools that rely heavily on parental fees while government disbursements under the Basic Education Assistance Module remain delayed. Education officials warn that persistent arrears undermine school operations, teacher morale and learning outcomes. Parents, meanwhile, argue that punitive recovery methods compound hardship and risk alienating communities. Stakeholders call for a balanced approach: transparent debt-recovery mechanisms that respect legal safeguards, targeted social support for the poorest families, and improved communication between schools, chiefs and law enforcement. Without coordinated interventions, the Gokwe dispute risks deepening social fractures and disrupting children’s education in a region already grappling with economic insecurity.

ZCBC and the Catholic University of Zimbabwe sign an MoU to train teachers in psycho-spiritual counselling, strengthening safeguarding, mental-health support and holistic care in schools ( image source ) The Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference (ZCBC) and the Catholic University of Zimbabwe (CUZ) have formalised a partnership to strengthen safeguarding and holistic formation in the country’s education system through a new programme in psycho-spiritual therapy and counselling. The institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 29 January 2026 at the Africa Synod House in Harare, committing to train teachers as frontline agents of emotional, moral and spiritual care in schools. The MoU was signed by Fr Tryvis Moyo, ZCBC Secretary General, and Prof Ben Nyambo, Vice-Chancellor of CUZ. Speaking at the ceremony, Fr Moyo emphasised the Church’s commitment to safeguarding. “This signing speaks of better things to come,” he said, adding that teachers are central to creating safe environments where children can flourish. Prof Nyambo described the initiative as timely, noting that modern educators are expected to perform roles that extend beyond classroom instruction to include mentorship and pastoral care. The programme is housed within CUZ’s Faculty of Theology, Ethics, Religious Studies and Philosophy and combines academic coursework with community service. It comprises modules designed to build emotional intelligence, counselling skills and ethical frameworks for responding to trauma, behavioural issues and spiritual distress among learners. Course delivery will blend app-based learning, virtual seminars and in-person practicums to ensure accessibility for teachers across Zimbabwe. A distinctive feature of the initiative is its dual focus on formation and self-care. Sr Theresa Nyadombo, Coordinator of the ZCBC Education and Safeguarding Commissions, said teachers enrolled in the programme will themselves receive counselling as part of their formation. “This will help them become healed healers,” she said, explaining that supporting teachers’ wellbeing is essential to sustaining effective pastoral care in schools. ( image source ) CUZ already operates a Psycho-Spiritual Social Support Centre that provides free counselling to students and surrounding communities. Under the new partnership, similar centres are planned for dioceses nationwide, with the Archdiocese of Harare designated as the pilot site. The centres will serve as practical training hubs for teachers and as community resources for mental-health and spiritual support. Programme coordinator Antony Madongorere said the initiative was mandated by the ZCBC and implemented by CUZ as part of the Church’s broader healing mission. He stressed that the training aims to equip teachers with practical tools for safeguarding, early intervention and referral, while fostering a culture of compassion and resilience in schools. Church leaders and education stakeholders described the partnership as a significant step toward integrating pastoral care into formal teacher development. They argued that equipping teachers with psycho-spiritual skills can reduce stigma around mental-health issues, improve child protection outcomes and strengthen family-school links. The MoU signals a strategic alignment between pastoral structures and higher education to address Zimbabwe’s social, emotional and spiritual challenges. If scaled effectively, the programme could become a model for faith-based contributions to national safeguarding and teacher professional development.