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Afro-Sino Dreams Presented by Note2etoN | June 28, 2025 | Reps Theatre, Harare On June 28, 2025, the Theatre Upstairs at Reps Theatre in Harare became a vibrant stage for cultural innovation during Afro-Sino Dreams, a groundbreaking concert presented by Note2etoN. The event brought together musicians from China and Zimbabwe in a powerful celebration of heritage, artistic mastery, and unity through sound. It was more than a performance—it was a testament to cross-cultural collaboration, music education, and shared humanity. At the heart of the evening was Belle Qiu, a professional Guqin player from Sichuan, China, whose instrument—a seven-string zither—boasts over 7,000 years of history. Belle, also a Chinese medicine doctor and acupuncturist, has deeply immersed herself in Zimbabwean culture since relocating. A student at the Zimbabwe College of Music, she has studied local instruments and dance, grown fond of sadza and vegetarian cuisine, and performed with elegance and emotion that connected continents. Her musical journey includes performances across China and features on China National Television. Joining her was Zimbabwe’s Anesu Ndoro, a self-taught instrument builder and multi-instrumentalist. Anesu’s mastery of rare African stringed instruments—including the Chipendani, Xitende, Chivandudzo, Uhadi, Umakhweyana, and the Autoharp—made the performance a reverent homage to African musical roots. His arrangements breathe new life into traditional Zimbabwean sounds, positioning him as both a cultural archivist and innovator. Also performing was the seasoned Sabelo Nyoni, pianist, musicologist, and founder of Note2etoN. With over four decades of musical experience, Sabelo’s leadership has transformed the local music scene. Under her guidance, Note2etoN became the first Zimbabwean adult choir to qualify for the World Choir Games, winning two Silver Medals in 2016. Her collaborative spirit and deep musical insight anchored the ensemble's vision of unity through music. Cross-Cultural Synergy and Shared Languages What made Afro-Sino Dreams truly memorable was its authentic spirit of exchange. Belle’s multilingual performances—singing folk songs in Shona, Zulu, Xhosa, and Xichangana—left the audience both surprised and inspired. Her dedication to understanding and sharing in southern African cultures set a powerful example of cultural respect. In a remarkable reciprocal moment, Anesu and Sabelo then Joined Belle in performing Guqin Duet on a second Guqin, stepping into Belle’s world with equal care and precision. This mutual exchange was not just symbolic—it was deeply humanizing, showcasing the sincerity of their artistic connection. The highlight of the evening came when Belle and Anesu performed a lively Mbakumba dance which Belle learnt during her studies at the Zimbabwe College of Music. Their joyful movement was complemented by the surprise appearance of drumming master Othnel Mangoma, whose infectious energy turned the concert into a celebration. This unplanned collaboration brought the audience to their feet in a moment that perfectly captured the concert’s ethos. Education, Storytelling, and Community Connection The trio didn't just perform—they taught. They gave rich historical context to their instruments, discussing the Guqin’s ancient lineage, the spiritual significance of traditional Zimbabwean instruments, and the piano’s place in both African and Western traditions. These stories deepened the audience’s understanding, transforming each musical piece into an educational experience. Audience engagement was central throughout the evening. The performers led singalongs of folk songs, inviting the crowd into the music and breaking the fourth wall. The result was a shared space that blurred the line between performer and listener—a celebration of community as much as artistry.

The late Former President Edgar Lungu Source: Online sources The Zambian government has successfully obtained a court order halting the burial of former President Edgar Lungu in South Africa. The order was issued on Wednesday after a last-minute legal challenge that was heard on the very day Lungu’s funeral was scheduled to take place. As a result, members of the late president’s family, dressed in black funeral attire, were forced to postpone attending the burial service and instead appear at a courtroom in Pretoria. The Pretoria High Court ruled that Lungu’s burial would be postponed until a final decision is made in the ongoing legal dispute over his final resting place. A new hearing date has been set for August 4. This legal intervention is the latest development in a nearly month-long standoff between Lungu’s family and the Zambian government regarding the funeral arrangements. The government has insisted that the late president should receive a state funeral in Zambia. However, Lungu’s family opposes this, stating that he did not wish for the current President, Hakainde Hichilema, to be present at his funeral. While this has not been officially confirmed, many speculate that this request stemmed from a longstanding feud between the two former political rivals. Edgar Lungu, who served as Zambia’s president from 2015 until 2021, passed away at the age of 68 on June 5, 2025, in a hospital in South Africa after battling an undisclosed illness.

Botswana Becomes First High-HIV-Burden Nation to Eliminate Mother-to-Child HIV Transmission ( image ) Source: Trends Africa Botswana has made global health history by becoming the first African country—and the first among high HIV-burden nations—to receive the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Gold Tier certification for eliminating mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV. This achievement reflects decades of consistent public health investment and global leadership in fighting the HIV epidemic. The WHO designation falls under the United Nations-led Triple Elimination Initiative, which focuses on eradicating vertical transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Botswana met all the initiative’s stringent requirements, signaling not just national achievement but renewed hope for similar progress worldwide. Botswana’s progress is particularly powerful given its historical context. In the 1990s, the country was the epicenter of the HIV/AIDS crisis. By 1999, it had one of the world’s highest adult HIV prevalence rates—nearly 30%—and faced devastating impacts on life expectancy, public health systems, and economic development. But Botswana's trajectory changed drastically thanks to aggressive reforms and targeted interventions. By 2023, UNAIDS reported that only 1.2% of infants born in Botswana contracted HIV, with fewer than 100 pediatric cases nationwide—well below the WHO’s elimination threshold. This success is largely due to the early adoption of Option B+ , a program offering lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART) to all pregnant and breastfeeding women living with HIV, regardless of clinical symptoms. Universal free ART access—extended to both citizens and non-citizens—further supported treatment adherence and health outcomes. Botswana’s healthcare infrastructure was another major contributor. The integration of digital tools like Open Medical Record System (Open-MRS) allowed real-time monitoring of patient care, while decentralised healthcare services brought consistent care to even the most remote communities. Additionally, civil society organisations played a crucial role in raising awareness, encouraging partner testing, developing male-friendly clinics, and fighting stigma—essential steps for promoting long-term engagement in care.

Young Kenyan Protestors( image ) Reporter At least 16 people have died and over 400 others were injured during large-scale anti-government protests in Kenya, according to Amnesty International and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights . The demonstrations, which swept across major cities, were a response to police brutality, government corruption, and controversial tax hikes. Most casualties were reported in the capital, Nairobi, where protesters, police officers, and journalists sustained injuries from live fire, rubber bullets, and physical beatings. The unrest was marked by violent clashes between demonstrators and police forces, who used tear gas and batons to disperse crowds. The protests commemorate the one-year anniversary of the 2023 youth-led uprising against tax increases. During last year's demonstrations, at least 60 people were reportedly killed by security forces. This year, thousands of people took to the streets waving Kenyan flags and holding placards bearing images of victims from previous protests. The crowd chanted slogans like “Ruto must go,” targeting President William Ruto, whose proposed economic reforms remain widely unpopular. Demonstrations extended beyond Nairobi, with clashes also reported in Matuu, a town approximately 100km (62 miles) from the capital. Authorities responded by blocking major roads into Nairobi’s central business district and barricading key government buildings with razor wire. The government initially banned live TV and radio broadcasts of the protests, but the High Court in Nairobi overturned the decree, affirming the right to information and freedom of the press. President Ruto, who was attending a funeral in Kilifi County during the unrest, urged demonstrators to avoid destabilizing the country. “Protests should not be to destroy peace in Kenya. We do not have another country to go to when things go wrong,” he said. His absence from State House, despite protestors attempting to reach it, was notable, as security forces erected barricades around the residence and parliament.

Kudzie Kays By Mubiana Imbuwa Release Year : 2025 Genre : World Music Label : Independent / Blessed Kudzai Shayamano Artistic Evolution and Theme Kudzie Kayz’s The Experience  is a bold sophomore effort that transcends the boundaries of his debut, Mavambo . The album’s title reflects its narrative depth—each track serves as a vignette of personal growth, socio-political commentary, and cultural fusion. Kayz’s sound remains firmly rooted in world music, blending Zimbabwean sonic traditions with global influences, reminiscent of artists like Mahmoud Turki and Bakan Önder. Standout tracks like Shanduko  and Tinzweiwo Mambo  (feat. Tyla) showcase his ability to merge traditional rhythms with contemporary production, while Regera  (feat. Ras Caleb) introduces reggae-inflected grooves. The album’s lyrical themes—resilience, love, and social justice—echo the introspective tone of his earlier Pandemic Diaries – EP  (2021), now elevated with artistic maturity and purpose. Production, Collaborations, and Social Impact Recorded at Tach Studios under the guidance of producer Tapiwa Njonjonjo, the album's polished and cohesive sound belies its tight one-month production schedule. The live band—featuring Liberty Saizi (keys), Itai Chimombe (guitar), and powerhouse vocalists Nicholar Mtumwa and Fungai Chinogaramo—adds texture and depth. Collaborations with artists such as Tyla ( Tinzweiwo Mambo ) and Richie ( Siya Ndiyende ) provide vocal and instrumental diversity. More than a musical release, The Experience  also served as a platform for advocacy. The album’s launch doubled as a fundraiser for Tariro , a nonprofit supporting girls affected by HIV—a cause close to Kayz’s heart. While the turnout was modest compared to Mavambo , the sincerity of the event mirrored the album’s themes of community, identity, and resilience. Hiatus, Reception, and Technical Observations Kayz has framed The Experience  as a temporary farewell—a moment to pause, recharge, and reflect before entering his next creative phase. This context gives emotional weight to tracks like Hupenyu  (“Life”) and Chirere  (“Legacy”), which contemplate legacy, change, and rebirth. Although formal reviews remain limited, the album’s presence on Apple Music and Shazam’s curated charts signal rising international appeal. Its genre-fluid aesthetic aligns with global listening trends, yet remains distinctively Zimbabwean—setting Kayz apart from artists like Kyza (a UK rapper with an unrelated album of the same name), Diversidad (Europe), and Jamaica’s Lila Iké. Production Review, Key Tracks & Final Verdict The production—helmed by Tapiwa Njonjonjo—is sleek and immersive, delivering lush instrumentation and crisp mixing. One minor technical flaw becomes noticeable on casual listening devices: the kick drum’s deep EQ curve, designed for high-end bass systems, sacrifices punch on phones, laptops, and midrange speakers. While intentional or not, this slightly narrows accessibility for the average listener. That said, the sound remains rich and deliberate. Key Standout Tracks: Shanduko : A masterful mix of modern production and Zimbabwean tradition. Tinzweiwo Mambo  (feat. Tyla): A hypnotic, groove-led standout. Regera  (feat. Ras Caleb): Reggae-toned and lyrically compelling. These songs highlight Kayz’s growth in songwriting, shedding the occasional heavy-handedness of earlier works for greater nuance and poetic depth. The Experience is, by far, his most mature and impactful release. Final Verdict : 9/10 – A landmark album in Zimbabwean world music, balancing activism, artistry, and emotional resonance.

Zimura Logo Reporter The Zimbabwe Music Rights Association ( ZIMURA ) has denied allegations of fraud following recent legal proceedings involving its CEO, Ms. Polisile Chimhini. In an official statement, the ZIMURA board asserted that no misrepresentation, forgery, or fraud occurred, reaffirming that the organization remains operational and committed to transparency. ZIMURA was brought before the courts over alleged misrepresentation of facts related to the submission of the CR6 form —an official document listing registered company directors with the Registrar of Companies. The controversy arose when Ms. Chimhini signed, paid for, and submitted this form as part of legal evidence in a High Court case linked to Philip Chipfumbu’s membership dispute. In response to public speculation, ZIMURA issued a statement urging the public to disregard what it called "malicious statements" suggesting misappropriation of funds or that Ms. Chimhini had been remanded in custody. The board described these claims as unfounded lies aimed at tarnishing the reputations of both ZIMURA and its CEO. The statement clarified that the presiding magistrate had acquitted Ms. Chimhini of forgery, citing insufficient evidence. However, she was found guilty on an alternative charge of misrepresentation of facts and fined US$300 (or ZWL equivalent), payable by July 11, 2025. The board reiterated its belief that the CR6 form was legally filed and that the conviction was unjust. ZIMURA has since filed a notice of appeal, seeking to overturn both the conviction and the associated fine. The organization reassured its members, partners, and the public that the legal matter does not compromise its integrity, transparency, or day-to-day operations. ZIMURA, CR6 form Zimbabwe, Polisile Chimhini case, misrepresentation of facts, Zimbabwe music industry, ZIMURA board response, Zimbabwe High Court

Afro-Sino Dreams poster Afro‑Sino Musical Recital Set for Harare Music lovers in Harare are in for a treat this Saturday as Afro‑Sino Dreams  brings together Chinese and Zimbabwean artists at the Theatre Upstairs, Reps Theatre, under the theme “Experience Afro‑Sino Dreams: A Cross‑Cultural Musical Recital for Heritage, Innovation, and Collaboration” . An Unprecedented Musical Fusion On June 28, 2025 , audiences will encounter the meditative tones of the Chinese Guqin , the haunting resonance of the Zimbabwean Uhadi , and the expressive power of the piano—all on one stage. Performers: Belle Qiu  (China): Master of the Guqin , a 7,000‑year‑old zither. She will showcase ancient pieces dating from 2200 B.C., 100 A.D., and 750 A.D. . Sabelo Nyoni  (Zimbabwe): Veteran pianist, musicologist, choir founder, and Reps Theatre manager, bringing Western classical influences and deep musical insight . Anesu Ndoro  (Zimbabwe): Multi-instrumentalist and instrument builder reviving indigenous instruments like chipendani, xitende, chivandudzo, uhadi, umakhweyana, and autoharp. Cultural Preservation & Collaboration Afro‑Sino Dreams supports UNESCO’s mission and Zimbabwe’s National Creative Industries and Music Strategies by showcasing rare instruments publicly to promote heritage preservation , innovation , and cross-cultural dialogue . It’s described as a cultural dialogue that fosters mutual understanding, innovation, and respect through ancient Chinese, Western, and African musical traditions . 🎭 Event Details Date:  June 28, 2025 Venue:  Theatre Upstairs, Reps Theatre, Harare Shows:  Matinée at 2:30 pm , Evening at 6:30 pm   Tickets:  US $10. Book via TheSpotlight.co.zw  or WhatsApp/Call 0772 470 005

lenacapavir Stakeholders welcome new HIV prevention drug development The recent FDA approval of lenacapavir  (branded as Yeztugo ) has been hailed by experts and advocates as a groundbreaking achievement in HIV prevention —potentially a true gamechanger. Dr. Nyaradzo Mgodi, Senior Researcher at the University of Zimbabwe Clinical Trials Research Centre, praised the combined efforts of researchers, trial communities, and advocates that led to Yeztugo’s breakthrough. She emphasized its monumental impact, noting that clinical trials demonstrated 99.9% efficacy  in preventing HIV transmission  adelaidenow.com.au + 15wired.com + 15time.com + 15time.com . How Yeztugo works Yeztugo targets HIV at the capsid stage, blocking viral replication. After two initial oral doses and subcutaneous injections at six-month intervals, it provides long-lasting protection and dramatically improves adherence—key to reducing stigma and simplifying prevention regimens  drugs.com + 4time.com + 4washingtonpost.com +4 . Dr. Mgodi on adherence and equity “Lenacapavir helps in the issues of adherence… one only needs to take it twice yearly. It also reduces stigma…” she explained, highlighting the importance of affordable access, particularly for vulnerable younger women. Voices from advocacy: affordability matters Mr. Stanley Takaona, President of ZHAAUCT, echoed support for Yeztugo’s ease-of-use and expressed concern over ARV shortages. He urged stakeholders to guarantee affordability and availability when the drug becomes locally accessible. Myth-busting: it’s not a cure or vaccine Scientists are cautioning against misleading social media claims. Yeztugo is not  a cure or vaccine—but an effective prevention tool. Similar to oral PrEP, it must be part of a comprehensive HIV prevention strategy . Existing prevention tools Current options still include: Oral PrEP (daily pills) Injectable cabotegravir every two months Dapivirine vaginal ring Condoms (male & female) Yeztugo enriches these options, offering individuals—especially women—with a new long-acting alternative

The late former Zambian President Edgar Lungu Reporter The Zambian government has filed an urgent court case in South Africa in a bid to stop the burial of former President Edgar Lungu, intensifying the public feud between the state and Lungu's family over funeral arrangements. Zambia’s Attorney General, Mulilo Kabesha, has filed a public interest lawsuit aimed at halting the burial, which is scheduled to take place in Johannesburg on Wednesday. The legal action, according to state broadcaster ZNBC, challenges the family's decision to lay Lungu to rest outside his homeland. Lungu, who died on June 5 at Mediclinic Medforum Hospital in Pretoria, was 68. His death sparked a two-week standoff over funeral arrangements after his family opted for a private burial in South Africa, rejecting the Zambian government’s insistence on a state funeral presided over by President Hakainde Hichilema. In court papers, Attorney General Kabesha is suing several members of Lungu’s family, including former First Lady Esther Lungu, four of Lungu’s children, family lawyer Makebi Zulu, and the funeral home in South Africa that currently holds the late president’s remains. The government argues that a former head of state is a national figure whose burial must reflect their status and contributions to the country. Kabesha emphasized that public interest outweighs personal preference, citing the precedent of Zambia’s founding president Kenneth Kaunda, whose family wishes were overruled in 2021 when the government buried him at Embassy Memorial Park despite his expressed desire to be laid beside his wife. According to reports, Lungu’s will explicitly stated that President Hichilema should not attend his funeral, adding fuel to the long-standing tensions between the two leaders. The late president’s family reportedly insists the burial will go ahead as planned, stating they have not yet been served with court papers. The dispute initially seemed resolved after the family agreed to a state funeral. However, relations soured over the specifics of the ceremony, prompting the family to take the controversial decision to bury Lungu abroad. President Hichilema has argued that Lungu, as a former president, “belongs to the nation of Zambia” and should receive a formal send-off at home, including military honours and national recognition. The ongoing legal and political wrangle highlights the deep-rooted animosity between Lungu and Hichilema, a rivalry that persisted in life and now continues in death. As the South African court prepares to deliberate the case, Zambia watches closely to see whether national protocol or family autonomy will prevail in this unprecedented diplomatic and constitutional saga.

Favour Ofili at the Paris 2024 Olympics (Image Source: X) Reporter Nigerian sprint sensation Favour Ofili  is seeking a change in national allegiance amid reports of repeated neglect and administrative blunders by Nigerian sports authorities. The 22-year-old track star has officially notified the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU)  of her intention to represent Turkey , citing persistent failures by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN)  and the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC)  as the tipping point. Ofili’s frustration reportedly reached its peak during the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris . Despite having met the qualifying standard for the women’s 100m event, she was shockingly left out due to what officials described as an administrative oversight  — a repeat of the blunder that also cost her a spot at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics . In Tokyo, Nigerian officials failed to confirm the number of doping control tests  she had undergone, rendering her ineligible. In Paris, she missed the 100m again due to not being officially entered into the event, despite qualifying. She went on to finish sixth in the 200m final. Sources close to the athlete say Ofili’s decision has been years in the making , driven by a consistent lack of institutional support and systemic mismanagement that has jeopardized her professional prospects. Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s brightest sprinting prospects, Ofili boasts personal bests  of 10.93 seconds  in the 100m and 21.96 seconds  in the 200m. Her potential switch to Turkey could deal a devastating blow to Nigeria’s sprinting future  and stands as a damning indictment  of the nation's athletics administration. President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria , Tonobok Okowa , told reporters that the federation had not yet received formal notification from either Ofili or World Athletics  regarding her intention to switch allegiance. However, he acknowledged that if the reports are true, it would be “ sad, disheartening, and painful. ” Ofili’s move not only signals the loss of a world-class athlete for Nigeria but also adds to growing concerns about institutional failures in Nigerian sports , which have led several athletes in recent years to seek opportunities elsewhere. If approved, Ofili will become one of several high-profile African athletes representing other nations, reflecting a troubling trend of talent flight  driven by mismanagement and underinvestment in homegrown talent. (Favour Ofili to represent Turkey)

Nigeria President Bola Tinubu visit victims of di Benue killings for Hospital (Image Source: PRESIDENCY) Reporter President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his directive to security chiefs to swiftly end the ongoing killings in Benue State, following the latest massacre of more than 100 people in Yelwata, located in the Guma Local Government Area. The president’s directive was disclosed in a statement signed by Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, and came just hours after Pope Leo XIV prayed for the victims of what he described as a “terrible massacre” in Benue. Mr. Onanuga confirmed that intelligence chiefs and senior officials from the police and military have arrived in the state to take charge of security operations and help restore order, following the president’s orders. The victims were killed by armed men suspected to be Fulani militias, triggering unrest in the region. In response, local youths blocked the Lafia-Makurdi highway, protesting what they described as the government’s failure to protect lives. President Tinubu also charged Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia to convene reconciliation meetings and dialogue sessions among the warring factions in order to halt the bloodshed and foster peaceful coexistence between farmers, herders, and local communities. The violence in Benue and other North-central states is largely driven by resource-based conflict, particularly over land and water, between farmers and herders. This ongoing crisis has claimed thousands of lives over the years. Describing the violence as “inhuman and anti-progress,” Mr. Tinubu called on political and community leaders to avoid making inflammatory statements that could further aggravate the crisis. He also instructed that individuals attempting to provoke reprisals be identified and restrained. In a poignant moment of international solidarity, Pope Leo XIV prayed for the victims during his Sunday Angelus prayer, highlighting that many of those killed had been sheltered by a local Catholic mission. Speaking via Vatican News, the Pope appealed for security, justice, and peace in Nigeria, expressing particular concern for the “rural Christian communities of Benue State” who he said have been relentless victims of violence. Meanwhile, opposition leaders and civil society critics have accused the Tinubu administration of a delayed response, noting that the presidential statement was issued more than 24 hours after the attack, and the president’s visit to the state came five days later. The tragedy in Benue has once again reignited calls for a comprehensive national strategy to address rural insecurity, intercommunal conflict, and long-standing grievances tied to resource competition.

A thriving Zimbabwean Farm (REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko) Reporter Zimbabwe has emerged as an inspiration of agricultural success on the African continent, showcasing impressive achievements. This follows the Government’s deliberate efforts to prioritise and support agriculture. The Government has initiated several policies that support agriculture, notably the Agriculture Recovery and Growth Plan, introduced in 2020. This strategic plan has played a crucial role in reversing negative trends in the sector. It has not only boosted production but also transformed the livelihoods of many farmers across the nation. Since the advent of the Second Republic, Zimbabwe has consistently surpassed its agricultural targets. Most notably, the country exceeded the initial US$8 billion agricultural target well ahead of schedule. This remarkable feat prompted a revision of the target to an ambitious US$13.75 billion for the current year, reflecting robust agricultural growth. One of the standout successes has been in wheat production, where Zimbabwe has achieved record outputs, positioning itself among the top eight wheat-producing countries in Africa. Importantly, Zimbabwe is one of only two countries on the continent, alongside Ethiopia, that are self-sufficient in wheat production. This year, the nation is poised to produce over 600,000 tonnes of wheat, far exceeding the annual requirement of 360,000 tonnes for staple products like bread and pasta. Moreover, Zimbabwe has solidified its status as Africa’s largest tobacco producer and ranks sixth globally, trailing only China, India, Brazil, the United States, and Indonesia. In the 2023 tobacco growing season, the country earned US$1.23 billion from tobacco exports, producing a record 297 million kilograms of the crop, up from 234 million kilograms the previous season. The 2025 target has been raised to 320 million kilograms, surpassing the annual goal of 300 million kilograms and showcasing the sector’s ongoing potential. Government has also focused on supporting local farmers through various initiatives, ensuring increased private sector participation. This achievement underscores Zimbabwe’s pivotal role in the global tobacco market, especially as Brazil, China, and India account for over 55 percent of global production without expanding their hectarage. In addition to tobacco, Zimbabwe has made significant strides in blueberry exports, which soared by 85 percent in 2023, surpassing 5,000 tonnes. This growth has secured Zimbabwe’s place among the top 15 global exporters of blueberries, highlighting the sector’s revival and its wide-ranging economic impacts. These continuous improvements point to a bright future for Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector. The Government’s commitment to food security is clear as it aims to become a net exporter of agricultural goods, including wheat, tobacco, and a variety of horticultural products. As part of its long-term vision, Government plans to construct 15 high-impact dams by 2027, aligned with its goal to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy by 2030. This initiative is pivotal for accelerating rural industrialisation and enhancing productivity, aiming to irrigate at least 350,000 hectares to meet growing crop demands. A substantial $1.1 billion has been allocated for dam construction, which is progressing well. The project also includes the installation of 35,000 boreholes in villages, significantly improving access to clean water for both agriculture and rural communities. In livestock production, Government has set an ambitious target of US$3.4 billion for 2025, aiming to improve productivity and combat cattle mortality, particularly following outbreaks of tick-borne diseases that have affected nearly 500,000 cattle since 2016. The Livestock Recovery and Growth Plan (2021–2026) guides these ongoing efforts to bolster the sector. Tobacco Farmers Union Trust Vice President, Mr Edward Dune, said Zimbabwe’s agriculture sector is entering a new dawn. “Our farmers have now acquired the knowledge and skills required to use the land productively and restore Zimbabwe to its former glory in the SADC region.” He highlighted the Government’s support for farmers, especially those resettled under the Land Reform Programme, ensuring every ward has two extension officers to provide essential agricultural training. Zimbabwe Commercial Farmers Union (ZCFU) president, Dr Shadreck Makombe, said last season’s successes demonstrate a promising future. “Last season was a great season because everything was in order. Farmers planted on time after getting inputs on time again. Prices of inputs were lowered to an extent that the majority could afford to buy. The season was good, and we hope to have better seasons in the future.” Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development permanent secretary, Professor Obert Jiri, affirmed the Government’s commitment to agriculture. “Since we started to operationalize the Agriculture Recovery Growth Plan, we managed to score 2.7 million tonnes of maize during the 2020–2021 season. We also recorded 375,000 tonnes of wheat in 2022 and scaled up to over 500,000 tonnes last season, so we are flour self-sufficient.” Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector is experiencing a transformative period marked by strategic initiatives and significant achievements driven by the Second Republic. With a focus on productivity, food security, and rural development, the country is well on its way to realising its Vision 2030 goals, restoring its status as a leading agricultural powerhouse in the region and beyond.