Cristiano Ronaldo sits on 259 assists and needs 41 more to reach 300, but current trends suggest the milestone is unlikely without a major late-career role change or tactical reinvention ( image source ) Riyadh — Cristiano Ronaldo’s numbers remain staggering even in the twilight of his career: 953 career goals and 259 assists across club and international competitions. The arithmetic of greatness now hinges on one question: can the 39-year-old reach the elusive 300-assist milestone before retirement? The figure demands perspective. Only a handful of elite playmakers have crossed that threshold in official tallies. For a player whose defining metric has always been goals, a 300-assist landmark would reinforce his reputation as one of football’s most complete attackers. Yet the data suggests the chase will be challenging. 259 career assists; 41 needed for 300; 21 assists in 122 Al Nassr games. Since joining Al Nassr, Ronaldo has delivered 21 assists in 122 appearances, translating to roughly one assist every 510 minutes of play or once every 5.6 full matches. Using that ratio as a baseline, he would need to play around 232 additional matches to accumulate the remaining 41 assists. At his current career stage, that is statistically improbable; few outfield players maintain top-flight continuity into their early forties. “Definitely, yes. I will be 41 years old and I think [this] will be the moment in the big competition,” Ronaldo said when asked about his ambitions for the 2026 World Cup. The numbers game Current assists: 259 Needed for 300: 41 Recent rate: 1 per 510 minutes (Al Nassr) Required rate (within 100 games): 1 per 219 minutes To reach 300 assists within the next 100 matches, Ronaldo would need to more than double his creative productivity — delivering an assist approximately every 219 minutes, or one every 2.4 games. Achieving that would require both tactical reinvention and sustained physical availability. His evolving role as a penalty-box finisher naturally limits assist opportunities, especially in a team structure that orbits around his scoring prowess. Analysts note that an uptick could occur if Ronaldo transitions into a deeper or linking role, emulating the late-career adaptation seen in players such as Zlatan Ibrahimović or Wayne Rooney. Alternatively, a potential move to a less demanding league or a coaching decision to exploit his passing range might raise his assist rate. But such shifts would trade some goal volume, and Ronaldo’s public priorities suggest his focus remains squarely on the 1,000-goal milestone, a record within sight. Ronaldo’s statistical arc illustrates the late-career balancing act between longevity and reinvention. The pursuit of 300 assists is less about numbers than about evolution — whether a legendary scorer can close his career by proving he was also one of the game’s great creators. Observers say it is possible, but improbable. Unless his role changes meaningfully, Ronaldo’s legacy will likely rest not on joining the 300-assist club, but on achieving something even rarer — a career defined by both relentless goalscoring and a creative output few pure strikers have ever matched.

Mugabe Jr fined US$300 and given a wholly suspended three-month sentence after a drug possession conviction, drawing public scrutiny and legal debate ( image source ) Robert Tinotenda Mugabe Junior, the 33-year-old son of the late former president, was convicted on a charge of unlawful possession of drugs at Harare Magistrates’ Court on Thursday and fined US$300, a penalty that the court said could be converted into a custodial term if unpaid. The case stems from an arrest in October during a police traffic operation in Harare’s central business district, when officers reportedly found two sachets of dagga and related paraphernalia in his bag. Magistrate Lisa Mutendereki imposed a three-month prison sentence that was wholly suspended for five years, on condition that Mugabe does not commit a similar offence during the suspension period — a common judicial measure intended to deter repeat offending while avoiding immediate incarceration for first-time offenders. In mitigation, Mugabe described himself as a single father and asked for leniency; the court accepted his plea and applied the suspended sentence as the principal punitive measure. The proceedings also touched on procedural matters: a warrant of arrest that had been issued after Mugabe missed a remand appearance was later cancelled when he reappeared in court, a development that drew attention to the case’s administrative timeline and the public scrutiny that accompanies high-profile defendants. Legal commentators said the sentence — a modest fine coupled with a suspended term — reflects the court’s balancing of public interest, the defendant’s personal circumstances and the quantity of the drug involved. Public reaction has been mixed. Some commentators noted the symbolic resonance of a Mugabe family member facing criminal sanction in a country still negotiating the legacy of its former leader, while others urged that the justice system treat the case as it would any other to preserve public confidence. Police and prosecutors said the matter was handled under standard procedures and that any future breaches of the suspension conditions would trigger enforcement action.

Leadership from Vodacom Group and Starlink announce a strategic agreement to deliver high-speed, low-latency broadband Internet to businesses across Africa ( image source) Vodacom Group has entered into a landmark partnership with Starlink, Elon Musk’s low-Earth-orbit satellite broadband service, in a deal expected to accelerate high-speed internet access across underserved regions of Africa. The collaboration will allow Vodacom to integrate Starlink’s satellite backhaul into its mobile network, improving coverage in rural and hard-to-reach areas where fibre deployments and tower construction are costly or impractical. Under the agreement, Vodacom will also be authorised to resell Starlink terminals and services to enterprise and small-business customers across participating markets. In a corporate statement, Vodacom positioned the partnership as a major step towards closing Africa’s digital divide. The operator said the integration of satellite backhaul will enhance network performance and provide a complementary route for expanding 4G and 5G services in areas constrained by terrestrial infrastructure. The model is expected to benefit remote schools, clinics and businesses that have struggled to access reliable broadband due to geographical and infrastructural limitations. Industry reporting shows that Starlink is already active in roughly 25 African markets, and the tie-up with Vodacom will broaden commercial reach, pending country-level approvals. Several markets, including South Africa, may require additional licensing before retail availability is confirmed. The agreement aligns with a global trend of telecommunications operators partnering with LEO satellite providers to reduce the cost and time associated with rural network build-outs. “This collaboration marks a crucial step in bridging the digital divide and unlocking new opportunities for economic growth, education and innovation across Africa,” Vodacom said. Regional broadcasters have highlighted the potential social impact, noting that faster and more reliable internet could transform service delivery in remote districts, support digital learning and enable small enterprises to participate in e-commerce and remote work. Analysts, however, caution that regulatory clarity, affordability and last-mile distribution will shape the real-world benefits of satellite connectivity. Without consumer-friendly pricing and streamlined approvals, uptake may remain limited. For Zimbabwe, the partnership presents both opportunities and challenges. Improved connectivity could strengthen rural health facilities, schools and SMEs, while offering mining and agricultural hubs a faster route to enterprise-grade broadband. Yet practical issues remain, including spectrum management, licensing for the import and resale of Starlink equipment, and tariff models that accommodate low-income users. Policymakers, operators and regulators will need to align on frameworks that ensure inclusive and competitive satellite-based services. Rollout timelines and participating country lists remain subject to regulatory and commercial finalisation. Stakeholders in Harare and across the region will watch closely as Vodacom and Starlink move from announcement to deployment, and as national authorities set the conditions for satellite broadband’s entry into local markets.

Zimbabwe is intensifying efforts to help SMEs access the Chinese market, focusing on heritage products, fruit export protocols, trade fairs like CIIE and capacity building ( image source ) Zimbabwe’s government has made expanding market access for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) into China a clear priority, Minister Monica Mutsvangwa told Xinhua on the sidelines of the SMEs International Expo in Harare, where she urged exporters to leverage existing bilateral ties and trade platforms to reach Chinese buyers. The minister singled out heritage products and cultural artefacts — notably indigenous stone and wood sculptures — as goods with strong potential in China, and said the state would work to link producers with industry partners and buyers to scale up exports. Agricultural produce is already emerging as a tangible route into the Chinese market. Recent developments include protocols that have opened the door for Zimbabwean fruit exports, and industry bodies are preparing to scale production to meet demand. Blueberry growers, for example, are targeting China after an export protocol was agreed, with the Horticultural Development Council projecting growth from 8,000 tonnes in 2024 to 12,000 tonnes in 2025 — a 50% increase as producers gear up for new market opportunities. That kind of expansion illustrates how targeted market access can translate into rapid production and export growth for well-prepared value chains. Government and trade-promotion agencies are also encouraging SMEs to use international platforms to raise their profile. Zimbabwean firms have been urged to expand their footprint at events such as the China International Import Expo (CIIE) and other trade fairs, which provide direct exposure to Chinese buyers and distributors and can accelerate commercial partnerships and contract wins. Officials say participation in such expos, combined with trade missions and buyer-seller forums, will be central to a practical market-entry strategy for smaller exporters. To attract and sustain Chinese demand, Zimbabwean authorities are promising a more facilitative business environment. Agencies including the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA) and other ministries have been involved in roundtables and pledges to streamline approvals, improve logistics and offer incentives to investors and exporters — part of a broader push to make the country more attractive to Chinese capital and trade partnerships. Officials stress that policy coherence, transparent regulation and predictable trade procedures are prerequisites for long-term market relationships. Practical barriers remain and the government recognises the need for capacity building. SMEs must meet sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) standards, upgrade packaging and quality control, and access finance and digital skills to manage cross-border sales and e-commerce channels. Trade-promotion materials and outreach — including explainer videos and training modules on export readiness and digital marketing — are being rolled out to help firms bridge those gaps and present competitive offers to Chinese buyers. Analysts stress that if Zimbabwe can combine targeted capacity building, export protocols and active participation in trade platforms, the payoff could be significant: new jobs, higher foreign-exchange earnings and stronger value chains that move artisanal and agricultural producers from local markets to global buyers.

Zimbabwe’s health sector faces a critical shortage of 14,000 workers after mass emigration ( image source ) Zimbabwe’s public health system is reeling from a severe staffing crisis, with Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora revealing that 14,000 posts remain unfilled following years of professional emigration. Addressing a strategic review and planning workshop in Mutare, the minister said government has approved recruitment for all vacant positions and aims to fill 5,284 of them by December. He described the situation as an urgent national priority, noting that the departure of doctors, nurses and pharmacists to the United Kingdom, United States, Australia and other destinations has weakened service delivery across the country. “We will build a resilient, equitable and high-performing health system, where resources are used effectively and quality care is a right, not a privilege,” he said. Health facilities nationwide report chronic understaffing that has resulted in longer waiting times, reduced clinic hours and the scaling back of specialised services. Rural hospitals have suffered the most, operating with skeletal staff, limited emergency response capacity and curtailed outreach programmes. Mombeshora warned that without decisive intervention, the system risks further decline and deeper inequalities in access to care. The recruitment plan forms part of a larger strategy combining immediate hiring with long-term retention reforms. The minister stressed that improved salaries, better working conditions and strategic deployment are essential to retain staff within the public sector. He urged health managers to reinforce primary care and rural facilities to ease the burden on central hospitals. The ministry also intends to expand training pipelines, fast-track the certification of new nurses and prioritise critical cadres in high-need districts. Housing, transport support and on-the-job professional resources are among the incentives under review. Financing remains a major constraint, with government exploring domestic solutions as donor support decreases. Mombeshora confirmed that the National Health Insurance Bill will be tabled before Parliament by year-end, positioning it as a tool to secure stable funding for salaries, infrastructural upgrades and community health programmes. Preventive care will also be prioritised to reduce unnecessary hospital admissions and strengthen the efficiency of lower-level facilities. Digital transformation featured prominently in the minister’s address, with planned investments in telemedicine, electronic health records and stronger data systems. He said digital tools would expand access to specialist services through remote consultations and support continuous professional development for clinicians in underserved districts. Mombeshora called for unified collaboration between government, training institutions, professional bodies and development partners to develop sustainable retention packages and clear career pathways. Analysts warn that the recruitment drive will test both fiscal space and administrative capacity, requiring transparent processes, efficient payroll systems and safeguards against ghost workers. Retention will ultimately depend on meaningful improvements in pay, safety and career progression — the factors that triggered the initial exodus. According to the ministry’s plan, success will be measured not only by staffing numbers but by improved service coverage, shorter queues and stronger primary care. With thousands of posts set to be filled, the coming months will be a critical test of whether policy commitments can deliver real relief to hospitals, clinics and the millions of Zimbabweans who depend on public health services.

ZIMSEC has dismissed claims of leaked or mishandled November 2025 exam papers, assuring the public that security protocols remain intact as analysts call for stronger logistics and transparency measures ( image source ) The Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) moved quickly on Tuesday to rebut reports that the ongoing November 2025 Ordinary and Advanced Level examinations had been compromised by leaked papers or distribution errors. In a formal statement the examinations body insisted that no question paper for the November session has been leaked and that multi-layered security protocols remain in force across the paper-setting, printing and distribution chain. The rebuttal followed a spate of social-media posts and local media accounts alleging that some centres received incorrectly labelled papers, fewer copies than candidates, and in a few instances unsealed exam packages, prompting fears of possible malpractice and calls for urgent investigations. ZIMSEC described those reports as “misleading and unfounded” and said any minor administrative or logistical issues that arise are being handled under established standard operating procedures. ZIMSEC’s statement thanked school heads, invigilators and security officers for maintaining order at examination centres and warned that any attempt at malpractice would attract strict disciplinary and legal action. The council said candidate attendance has been high and that conduct in centres has been “commendably orderly,” urging the public to rely on official channels for updates rather than unverified social-media claims. “ZIMSEC issues this statement to categorically reassure all candidates, parents, guardians, and the nation that the November 2025 examinations are proceeding as scheduled, with their integrity fully intact. There has been no leakage of any ZIMSEC question paper for the November 2025 examination session.” ZIMSEC statement. School administrators contacted by this paper said the majority of centres have experienced a routine session, but acknowledged isolated administrative hiccups such as late arrivals of some packages and occasional mismatches in paper labelling that were corrected on site. One headmistress in Harare, speaking on condition of anonymity, said invigilators followed ZIMSEC guidance to verify seals and candidate lists before allowing papers into examination halls; she added that where problems occurred, they were logged and reported to district officers for follow-up. Education analysts say the episode highlights two persistent vulnerabilities in high-stakes testing: logistics under pressure and the speed at which rumours spread on social platforms. An independent assessment by an education consultant recommended tighter chain-of-custody checks at district distribution points and a public-facing incident log so schools and parents can see how reported problems are resolved. Practical measures suggested by experts include mandatory photographic records of sealed packages at dispatch, time-stamped handover receipts between distribution officers and centre managers, and rapid-response teams to replace any compromised materials before a paper is written. Those steps, analysts say, would reduce the scope for genuine leaks and blunt the impact of false alarms. ZIMSEC’s appeal for calm comes as the examinations body prepares to complete the November session and begin marking. The council reiterated that it will continue to monitor the process vigilantly and prosecute malpractice where evidence exists, while urging stakeholders to verify information through official ZIMSEC channels rather than social media. For candidates and parents the immediate priority is clear: continue to follow invigilator instructions, report any irregularities through school authorities, and await official communiqués from ZIMSEC rather than reacting to unverified reports.

Zimbabwe’s 3–1 loss to Algeria sparked public anger, but context shows the defeat was expected for a rebuilding Warriors side facing a settled, higher-ranked opponent in a friendly meant for experimentation ( image source ) Zimbabwe’s 3–1 defeat to Algeria in last week’s international friendly ignited a wave of fury across social media, but much of that outrage is built on misplaced expectations, misinformation and, in some cases, an overly emotional sense of patriotism divorced from the realities of modern football. The Warriors were outplayed in the first half, conceding three goals, before responding with a composed second-half performance capped by a late Tawanda Chirewa penalty. In effect: Zimbabwe lost the first half 3–0, but won the second half 1–0 — a detail conveniently ignored by critics demanding instant miracles. To understand the match, context is essential. Zimbabwe travelled with a brand-new coaching setup, and several players met the coach for the first time just three days before the fixture. In international football, chemistry, structure and relationships matter. Teams do not magically gel without time, repetition and a clear tactical identity — all things that can only be built through months of work, not days. Across the pitch, Algeria represented the complete opposite scenario. They fielded a settled squad, managed by a coaching team that has enjoyed more than two years of continuity, with players who have trained together consistently and who compete at higher levels across Europe and North Africa. Their individual profiles, club experience and international pedigree outweigh the Warriors by a substantial margin. This disparity is reflected in the FIFA rankings, where Algeria sits significantly higher than Zimbabwe — another factor inexplicably omitted by those claiming the loss was an embarrassment. Rankings do not determine results, but they reflect performance, consistency and squad strength over long periods. Expecting Zimbabwe, in a rebuilding phase and short on preparation, to dominate or even match Algeria on their home soil was never realistic. That expectation gap is the real source of the national frustration, not the performance itself. Importantly, this was a friendly match — the very environment meant for tactical experimentation, fitness assessment, squad rotation and learning. These fixtures are designed specifically to expose weaknesses, test new ideas and prepare for competitive games, not to guarantee victory. Outrage over a friendly is not just unhelpful; it undermines the development process and unfairly targets players and coaches who are still laying the foundations of a new era. Despite the loss, Zimbabwe walked away with genuine positives. Young Joey Fabisch was one of the standout performers, showing maturity and composure in midfield and making a strong case for a permanent role. Chirewa showed calm under pressure with his well-taken penalty. The team’s tactical adjustments after halftime — improved pressing, better ball circulation and more cohesion between the lines — demonstrated that the coach and players clearly understand the magnitude of the task ahead. With more time, and with experienced leaders such as Marshall Munetsi and Knowledge Musona expected to return, the Warriors have the ingredients to grow into a competitive unit. The upcoming match against Qatar on Monday offers another valuable opportunity for refinement and for fringe players to contest AFCON spots. Anger will not accelerate progress. Patience, realism and support will. Go Warriors Go.

Zimbabwe’s tobacco season opens with a 22% surge in plantings, driven by improved inputs, strong global demand and renewed farmer confidence ( image source ) Harare — Zimbabwe’s tobacco sector has recorded a strong early-season surge, with the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) confirming that a total of 27,215 hectares have been planted for the 2025–26 season, a 22% increase from the same stage last year. The rise represents one of the most significant early-season expansions in the past five years, driven by improved access to seed, fertiliser and irrigation equipment, and sustained confidence following a profitable 2024 auction season. The TIMB reports that 23,517 hectares of the current plantings are under irrigation, a record ratio suggesting greater mechanisation and input-intensity among both commercial and smallholder growers. Growth has been most pronounced in Mashonaland East (up 41%), Manicaland (17%) and Mashonaland West (15.4%), regions that collectively account for over two-thirds of Zimbabwe’s flue-cured output. Industry sources attribute the expansion to favourable rainfall projections, targeted government extension programmes, and a new financing framework that opened an additional registration window for late transplanters. “This season’s uptick reflects both improved weather in key districts and renewed farmer confidence after last year’s strong auction returns,” said an agribusiness analyst who tracks the tobacco sector. The rebound coincides with stronger global demand and higher contract-floor prices, as Chinese and Middle Eastern buyers rebuild inventories. Export receipts from the 2024 season exceeded US$1.2 billion, making tobacco Zimbabwe’s single largest agricultural foreign-exchange earner and a critical driver of rural livelihoods. The sector now supports over 160,000 registered growers and thousands more seasonal workers in ancillary industries from transport and packaging to fertilizer supply. The 22% increase signals renewed confidence in an industry central to Zimbabwe’s balance-of-payments position. Higher plantings could lift rural incomes and stimulate demand for agricultural services, but economists caution about associated risks: water pressure from expanded irrigation, growing input-credit exposure, and vulnerability to international price corrections at auction. The TIMB has pledged closer monitoring of environmental practices, especially in water-stressed areas, and is encouraging farmers to adopt sustainable curing technologies. Analysts say that while tobacco’s dominance remains vital for export earnings, the long-term challenge lies in diversifying agricultural exports and value-adding locally to reduce dependence on raw leaf sales. For now, optimism prevails as growers prepare for a promising season that could consolidate Zimbabwe’s global market share, provided weather, logistics and financing align in the months ahead.

Zimbabwe’s gold-backed ZiG remains stable in 2025, supported by tight monetary discipline, strong reserves, improved exports and growing market confidence ( image source ) Zimbabwe’s gold-backed currency, the ZiG (Zimbabwe Gold), has maintained notable stability through 2025, buoyed by tighter monetary controls, disciplined fiscal management and growing confidence in the reserve-backing framework introduced earlier this year. The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) attributes the continued steadiness to robust foreign-exchange inflows, stronger mineral and agricultural exports, and a clear link between money supply and physical reserves of gold and other minerals. Inflation has eased into single digits, while the interbank exchange rate has remained relatively flat for three consecutive quarters—an outcome that has surprised many analysts who expected early volatility. “Stability is fragile but real for now; sustaining it requires continued reserve accumulation and restraint on quasi-fiscal operations,” said a Harare-based macroeconomist. Policymakers credit a combination of reforms: limiting unbacked credit creation, tightening government spending, and publishing periodic reserve audits to build public trust. The RBZ says the currency’s convertibility into physical gold through authorised dealers has reinforced confidence among exporters and high-value traders, while easing speculative pressures on the parallel market. Economists view the ZiG as a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s post-hyperinflation recovery strategy, offering businesses a predictable pricing environment and restoring some investor confidence. Exporters in tobacco, lithium and platinum sectors have benefited from smoother repatriation processes and improved value retention, while urban consumers have welcomed greater price stability in basic goods. However, analysts caution that the foundations remain delicate. Sustaining the ZiG’s strength will depend on disciplined fiscal conduct, transparency in reserve management, and deepening of the interbank foreign-exchange market. Structural issues—including limited manufacturing output and dependence on primary commodities—continue to pose medium-term risks. Stable currency conditions improve the cost of doing business, enable longer-term contracts, and provide a platform for investment planning. For small enterprises and households, exchange-rate calm translates into more predictable prices and reduced transaction risk. Still, experts warn that maintaining credibility will require political restraint. Any resurgence of quasi-fiscal activities, election-related spending or delayed exporter settlements could quickly erode trust. As one banker observed, “Monetary stability is earned daily—the moment discipline slips, the market reacts.” For now, the ZiG’s performance signals cautious optimism: a period of stability that, if preserved, could anchor Zimbabwe’s broader economic recovery and restore investor confidence in the nation’s monetary governance.

South Africa faces a diplomatic setback as key partners scale back participation in SA-led forums, weakening Pretoria’s multilateral influence and investment drive ( image source ) President Cyril Ramaphosa’s international diplomacy has encountered a setback after reports that major partners will scale back participation in forums hosted or championed by South Africa, a development analysts say undermines Pretoria’s ability to shape multilateral outcomes and attract investment. The immediate flashpoint was the decision by some international actors to limit attendance at high-level events where South Africa has sought to play a convening role. Observers say the move reflects broader tensions in Pretoria’s external relations and complicates efforts to use diplomatic platforms to secure trade and investment deals. Ramaphosa has sought to counterbalance diplomatic headwinds through targeted economic diplomacy. On the margins of recent international summits, including the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), he emphasised economic diplomacy and multilateral engagement as central to South Africa’s strategy to diversify markets and attract investment. Political analysts say the setback carries reputational and practical costs. Roland Henwood, a political scientist cited in commentary on the diplomatic rift, warned that reduced engagement by major partners “is a negative development for South Africa” that could limit Pretoria’s influence in multilateral decision-making and complicate efforts to lead continental initiatives. “This is a negative development for South Africa; the G20 under South Africa’s presidency was already under strain, and now one of the world’s most influential actors is not attending.” Political analyst quoted in commentary. The diplomatic friction has knock-on effects for regional neighbours. Economists and trade experts say South Africa’s diminished convening power could slow progress on intra-African trade initiatives and reduce investor confidence in regional projects that rely on Pretoria’s leadership. Policy responses under consideration in Pretoria include intensified bilateral outreach to key partners, a renewed focus on economic diplomacy to secure concrete investment pledges, and efforts to shore up support within African multilateral bodies. Officials stress that South Africa will continue to pursue a diversified foreign policy that engages both Global North and Global South partners. For now, the diplomatic setback highlights the fragility of influence that depends on high-level attendance and underscores the need for sustained, practical engagement that translates summit diplomacy into tangible trade and investment outcomes for South Africa and the region.

Zimbabwe opens the Victoria Falls border post 24/7, aiming to boost tourism, ease trade delays and strengthen cross-border cooperation with Zambia ( image source ) The Zimbabwean government issued an extraordinary gazette on 14 November 2025 extending the operating hours of the Victoria Falls port of entry so that it no longer closes at 10PM, a change framed as an immediate measure to facilitate tourism and trade and to improve cross-border movement between Zimbabwe and Zambia. The notice, published under the Immigration Act as General Notice 2265A of 2025, was shared on social media by Nick Mangwana and formally signed by the Secretary for Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Raphael Faranisi. The decision takes effect from the date of publication and applies to both pedestrian and vehicular traffic at this strategic frontier point. Officials and industry stakeholders say the extension is a potential game-changer for the region. Victoria Falls (Mosi-oa-Tunya) is one of southern Africa’s premier tourist attractions, and round-the-clock border operations remove a major scheduling constraint for visitors who wish to experience both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides in a single trip. Tour operators and hoteliers welcomed the move, noting that flexible arrival and departure times will allow for later flights, evening excursions and smoother itineraries that can increase overnight stays and tourism receipts. Beyond leisure travel, the change is expected to relieve chronic logistical bottlenecks for cross-border traders and long-distance truck drivers who previously faced overnight waits when the gates closed. Extended hours should reduce queueing, lower the cost of delays and improve the reliability of supply chains that link Zimbabwe to regional ports and markets. For informal traders and small businesses that depend on timely border access, the policy could translate into fewer lost sales and lower transport costs. The timing of the announcement is notable: it preceded a high-level meeting between President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, who were due to convene the inaugural session of the Zambia-Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission. While the gazette does not explicitly link the change to bilateral talks, the proximity of the two events suggests cross-border cooperation and regional integration were central to the agenda. Practical implementation will determine whether the policy delivers its promise. Extending hours requires additional staffing for immigration, customs and security, revised shift patterns, and increased operational budgets. Authorities will need to ensure adequate lighting, CCTV and emergency services to manage night-time traffic safely, and to guard against potential rises in smuggling or other cross-border crime that can accompany longer operating windows. Coordination with Zambian counterparts will be essential to avoid mismatched hours or procedural bottlenecks on the opposite bank. The government has signalled that the measure is part of a broader push to make border management more facilitative and tourism-friendly. If effectively resourced and paired with bilateral coordination, the 24-hour operation at Victoria Falls could become a tangible example of how administrative reform can unlock economic benefits for communities on both sides of the Zambezi.

Speaker Jacob Mudenda orders MPs to halt poorly coordinated committee trips, warning that widespread absences threaten quorum, oversight and parliamentary efficiency ( image source ) Speaker Jacob Mudenda interrupted proceedings after observing a striking number of empty seats on both benches and demanded an explanation from party whips, saying the pattern of committee outings was unacceptable and must stop. He reminded members that the National Assembly requires a quorum to conduct business and that frequent, poorly coordinated committee departures were leaving the House unable to fulfil its legislative and oversight functions. Mudenda noted that multiple committees had gone out simultaneously— in one instance three committees were away despite a standing directive limiting concurrent outings— and he asked the Whips to account for the absences and to ensure better coordination going forward. Parliamentary practice typically allows committees to undertake field visits and oversight missions, but these are meant to be scheduled so they do not compromise plenary sittings. The Speaker emphasised that only a limited number of committees should be on outreach at any one time, and that the Whips’ offices must be consulted and give concurrence before trips depart. Mudenda’s intervention underlined the tension between constituency work and the need to maintain a functioning chamber: while oversight in the field is essential, it must not come at the cost of leaving constituents without representation in the House. When large numbers of MPs are absent from plenary, constituents lose direct representation, votes may be delayed and parliamentary scrutiny of government business weakens. Observers warn that repeated absences can slow the passage of legislation, delay budget debates and reduce the effectiveness of question time and committee reports. Civil-society groups and civic commentators have long argued that MPs must balance constituency outreach with their core legislative duties; Mudenda’s public admonition is a signal that the Speaker intends to enforce that balance more strictly. The dispute also exposes practical weaknesses in parliamentary scheduling and resource planning. If committees are routinely travelling without proper notice, the House’s administrative systems—from transport logistics to committee secretariats—may be failing to coordinate effectively. Mudenda’s demand for the Whips to concur with outreach plans is a call for stronger internal controls and clearer accountability. Some party whips acknowledged the problem, saying that ad hoc trips sometimes proceed without full clearance, and pledged to tighten internal procedures. Parliamentary procedure allows the Speaker to issue directives and to refer persistent breaches to the House authorities for disciplinary action. Mudenda’s warning suggests he may escalate enforcement if the pattern continues, including stricter approval processes for committee travel and potential sanctions for non-compliance. For now, MPs have been put on notice: fieldwork remains legitimate, but it must be planned, authorised and timed so that the National Assembly can continue to sit with adequate numbers and fulfil its constitutional mandate.