A landmark High Court ruling in Zimbabwe has affirmed that fraud cases are not limited by statutory time bars ( image source ) HARARE — A High Court ruling has set a powerful legal precedent in Zimbabwe’s civil justice system, affirming that fraud allegations are not subject to statutory time limits. The decision clears the way for a high-stakes lawsuit involving prominent business figures and a contested property deal dating back to 2008. Justice Gladys Mhuri ruled that allegations of fraud are not extinguished by prescription laws, effectively rejecting the defendants’ argument that the case was time-barred. The ruling allows plaintiffs David Ephrage Tafangenyasha Muchinguri and Darryl Nyasha Muchinguri, along with their company Sagnol International (Pvt) Ltd, to proceed with a lawsuit against businessman Frank Buyanga, Zimcor Trustees Ltd, Cont River Investment (Pvt) Ltd, and the Registrar of Deeds. “This judgment affirms the principle that fraud cannot hide behind the passage of time,” said Tendai Bvute, a Harare-based legal analyst. At the heart of the dispute is a loan agreement and subsequent property transfer that the plaintiffs allege were based on fraudulent documents and “sham” contracts. The plaintiffs are seeking to nullify a simulated agreement of sale dated 1 December 2008 and reverse the transfer of shareholding and property ownership that followed. The defendants had argued that the case was filed outside the statutory three-year window for civil claims. However, Justice Mhuri ruled that fraud cases are exempt from such limitations, citing the need to uphold justice where deception is involved. Legal experts say the ruling could have far-reaching consequences for Zimbabwe’s commercial litigation landscape, particularly in cases involving property fraud, which has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. “This decision sends a strong message to those who think they can manipulate the system and get away with it,” said Advocate Rudo Mupunga. “It empowers victims of long-standing fraud to seek redress, even after many years.” The ruling also comes amid growing scrutiny of Zimbabwe’s property registration system, which has been plagued by allegations of corruption and document tampering. A 2024 case involving former education minister Dr. Dzingai Mutumbuka, who fought to reclaim his Chisipite home from alleged fraudsters, highlighted the systemic vulnerabilities in the deeds registry. While the ruling is a win for the plaintiffs, it also underscores the need for institutional reform to restore investor confidence in Zimbabwe’s property and legal systems. “Predictable and fair legal outcomes are essential for attracting investment,” said Nyasha Chikowore, a corporate governance consultant. “This ruling is a step in the right direction.” As the case proceeds, it will test the judiciary’s ability to navigate complex commercial disputes and uphold the rule of law in a country where legal certainty is often elusive.

Zimbabwean officials renewed calls for the removal of Western sanctions, saying they have cost the nation over US$42 billion and stifled economic growth ( image source ) HARARE —  Senior government officials have reiterated calls for the removal of Western-imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe, arguing that the restrictions continue to stifle investment, limit access to global financial systems, and undermine national development efforts. Speaking at a press briefing ahead of the Anti-Sanctions Day commemorations on 25 October, the Minister of Foreign Affairs said sanctions—primarily from the United States and European Union—have cost Zimbabwe billions in lost revenue and foreign direct investment (FDI) since their imposition in the early 2000s. “Sanctions are not targeted; they affect every Zimbabwean,” said the Minister. “Their removal will unlock our full economic potential and restore investor confidence.” The government estimates that Zimbabwe has lost over US$42 billion in potential revenue due to restricted access to international credit lines, blocked transactions, and reputational damage. Sectors most affected include mining, agriculture, and infrastructure development. The United States maintains that its sanctions are targeted at individuals and entities accused of human rights violations and corruption. However, Zimbabwean officials argue that the measures have a chilling effect on the broader economy, discouraging banks and investors from engaging with the country. “Even companies not on the sanctions list are affected due to over-compliance by global institutions,” said economist Dr. Gift Mugano. “This creates a de facto embargo.” Regional bodies such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU) have consistently called for the unconditional lifting of sanctions, citing their impact on regional integration and economic recovery. In recent months, Zimbabwe has intensified diplomatic efforts to re-engage with Western capitals. The Ministry of Finance has also launched reforms aimed at improving transparency, strengthening public financial management, and aligning with international standards. “We are not asking for charity; we are asking for fairness,” said Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube. “Zimbabwe is ready to do business.” Civil society groups have urged the government to complement its anti-sanctions campaign with domestic reforms, including judicial independence, media freedom, and anti-corruption measures. “Sanctions are part of the problem, but not the whole problem,” said activist Rudo Gwatidzo. “We must also fix our governance systems.” The Anti-Sanctions Day featured marches, panel discussions, and cultural events across provinces, with the main event held in Harare. Organisers said the goal was to raise awareness and mobilise international support for Zimbabwe’s economic sovereignty.

The ZRP has disciplined three officers involved in a viral Budiriro traffic altercation but withheld details of the sanctions ( image source ) The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) says it has moved swiftly to discipline three officers filmed in a widely circulated video that captured a tense altercation between motorists and police during a traffic enforcement operation in Budiriro, Harare. The force confirmed the measures were imposed with immediate effect but did not disclose the exact nature of the sanctions. The footage, which trended across social media and prompted an outcry from road users and civic groups, shows a heated confrontation at a routine roadblock. The clip sparked fresh debate about police conduct, the proportionality of enforcement tactics, and how officers interact with members of the public during stops. In a Thursday statement, the ZRP stressed that it does not condone misconduct by its members and reiterated a commitment to upholding discipline. “The Police urges motorists to be law-abiding citizens and avoid using obscene or vulgar words to police officers, especially women on effecting arrests,” the statement read, while also appealing for restraint from officers and the public during law-enforcement encounters. Civil-society organisations and rights advocates welcomed the disciplinary action but said transparency is essential to rebuild public trust. “Swift internal measures are a positive step, but the public needs clarity on what happened and how the force will prevent similar incidents,” said a local campaigner for police accountability. The incident arrives amid broader scrutiny of the ZRP’s roadblock operations and calls for reforms to strengthen professionalism, improve public-relations training, and ensure accountability. Observers noted that without clearer disclosure of disciplinary outcomes, citizens may view internal processes as opaque and insufficient to deter future misconduct. ( video source ) Police officials said they are reinforcing internal disciplinary systems and training protocols to ensure officers carry out duties with integrity and respect for human rights. Legal experts pointed out that disciplinary and criminal processes can run in parallel — administrative sanctions within the force do not preclude external investigations or criminal charges where warranted. Motorist groups urged both drivers and officers to exercise calm at checkpoints and pushed for public-education campaigns explaining motorists’ rights and police procedures. The ZRP said it will continue to monitor the situation and encouraged members of the public to report misconduct through official channels. As the video continues to circulate, the debate it has reignited underscores a fragile trust between law enforcement and communities on the roads. Authorities face the task of balancing enforcement with transparency and public accountability if confidence in policing is to be restored.

Zimbabwe is accelerating its mercury phase-out to meet the 2027 Minamata Convention targets, with new regulations, mercury-free mining technologies, and stricter import controls ( image source ) HARARE  — Zimbabwe is fast-tracking efforts to eliminate mercury use in industrial and artisanal sectors, as part of its commitment to the Minamata Convention on Mercury, a global treaty aimed at protecting human health and the environment from mercury emissions. The Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife confirmed that the country is on track to meet its 2027 phase-out targets, with new regulations and pilot projects already underway in mining, healthcare, and manufacturing. “Mercury is a silent killer — we must act decisively,” said Dr. Sosten Ziwewe, Director of Hazardous Substances Control. Zimbabwe’s artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) sector is the largest consumer of mercury, where it’s used to extract gold from ore. The government has launched awareness campaigns and introduced mercury-free technologies, such as gravity concentration and borax-based methods, in hotspots like Kadoma and Mazowe. “We’ve trained over 2,000 miners on safer alternatives,” said Tariro Mudzonga, a project officer with the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association (ZELA). In healthcare, mercury thermometers and sphygmomanometers are being phased out in favour of digital devices. The Ministry of Health has issued procurement guidelines to ensure all new equipment is mercury-free. Zimbabwe ratified the Minamata Convention in 2017 and has since developed a National Action Plan (NAP) for mercury reduction. The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) is enforcing stricter import controls and licensing requirements for mercury-containing products. “We’re working with customs and industry to monitor compliance,” said Rumbidzai Chikore, EMA’s chemicals officer. The government is also collaborating with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF) to fund pilot projects and technical training. Mercury exposure can cause severe neurological and kidney damage, especially in children and pregnant women. In mining communities, mercury runoff contaminates rivers and soil, threatening biodiversity and food safety. “Mercury pollution is a ticking time bomb,” said Dr. Tapiwa Nyatsanza, a toxicologist. “We must eliminate it before it’s too late.” While progress is evident, experts warn that enforcement gaps, limited funding, and resistance from informal miners could slow the transition. However, the phase-out also presents opportunities for innovation and green entrepreneurship. “We’re seeing startups offering mercury-free processing services,” said Mudzonga. “It’s a win-win for health and business.” Zimbabwe’s mercury phase-out is part of a broader push toward sustainable development and environmental justice. With the 2027 deadline approaching, stakeholders say urgency and coordination are key. “This is about safeguarding our future,” said Ziwewe. “We owe it to the next generation.”

Harare has launched a prepaid water meter pilot at Birdcage Walk and Calder Gardens to improve revenue collection, but rights groups warn the move could limit access to water for vulnerable residents without proper safeguards ( image source ) Harare has begun a contentious rollout of prepaid water meters in a pilot covering flats near the central business district — a move city officials say will improve revenue collection and reduce losses, but which rights groups warn may criminalise access to a basic service. The first phase installs 22 prepaid meters at Birdcage Walk, with a second tranche of 28 scheduled for Calder Gardens, signalling a cautious expansion of the programme. City officials and implementing partners argue the system will cut non-revenue water and ensure residents pay only for what they consume. Helcraw Water and technology partner Laison Technologies say installations will accompany pipe repairs and a push to reduce losses to below five percent — part of a broader effort to make the utility financially sustainable. “What we want is to cut losses and make sure people get the water they have paid for,” said Helcraw’s managing director during the launch, stressing that technical upgrades will run alongside meter installation. Residents at Birdcage Walk and Calder Gardens reacted with alarm and practical questions. Tenants worry about prepaid disconnections if balances run out, and some fear health risks if households cannot top up quickly during shortages. One resident said the slogan “pay first, drink later” captures the anxiety among families on tight budgets who may be forced to ration water in ways that increase sanitation risks. Rights groups and legal advocates insist access to clean water is a human right and urge the council to ensure safeguards. They want clear emergency credits for vulnerable households, transparent tariff-setting, and an appeals mechanism before disconnection. Civil-society campaigners are calling for published protocols on how the prepaid system will treat hospitals, care homes, and households with medical needs. The city frames the pilot as both fiscal reform and a demand-management tool. Officials say prepaid metering reduces billing disputes and helps target maintenance where leaks and illegal connections drive losses. The council has promised complementary investments in burst-pipe replacement and network upgrades to make the new meters effective. Technical and policy experts caution that prepaid meters alone cannot solve systemic utility problems. They recommend a phased roll-out tied to social protection measures, digital payment access for low-income users, and public education so consumers understand top-up procedures and emergency provisions. Operators also need to ensure interoperability and data privacy protections for consumption records. How the pilot treats vulnerable households will determine public acceptance. Observers say transparent engagement, published criteria for exemptions, and an independent complaints channel are essential to avoid fuelling distrust and potential legal challenges. If the City balances revenue goals with clear protections for the poor, the prepaid model could reduce losses while preserving water access; if not, the programme risks deepening inequality and sparking protest.

Tourism Minister Barbra Rwodzi says Zimbabweans are being priced out of local attractions due to dollar-based tourism rates, pledging reforms to promote local currency pricing, equitable access, and domestic travel incentives ( image source ) Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbra Rwodzi told Parliament this week that many Zimbabweans are effectively priced out of national attractions because operators charge in foreign currency and set rates that favour international visitors over locals. The minister said the imbalance undermines domestic participation in the sector and undercuts the government’s goal of broad-based tourism benefits. “When a Zimbabwean visits a facility, they are supposed to be using our local currency,” Rwodzi said, urging differential pricing that clearly distinguishes between local and international rates. She told senators the ministry is preparing legislative changes to make pricing more equitable and to encourage family and youth participation in leisure travel. Rwodzi framed the issue against a positive growth backdrop: the sector has recorded strong expansion this year and international accolades have bolstered inbound demand, but domestic access remains uneven. She highlighted Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events (MICE) tourism, weddings and local travel as fast-growing contributors to the sector and argued that inclusive pricing will sustain both growth and social value. Industry sources confirmed many operators prefer US dollar pricing to protect margins against exchange-rate volatility and input costs, a practice that deters price-sensitive Zimbabwean holidaymakers. Hoteliers and tour operators told the ministry that dollar pricing simplifies accounting and secures foreign currency receipts for imported supplies and maintenance, but the approach carries clear social costs for local demand. Rights groups and consumer advocates welcomed Rwodzi’s acknowledgement but urged swift, enforceable measures. They want published guidelines on local tariff tiers, exemptions for vulnerable households, and transparent conversion mechanisms so domestic visitors pay fair, predictable amounts. Civil-society representatives also called for a timetable for the promised legislative amendments and interim measures to shield families from immediate price shocks. The minister said the Cabinet has reviewed tourism levies and fees as part of a wider effort to reduce the sector’s regulatory burden and cut costs that cascade into consumer prices. Rwodzi described a consultative process targeting licences, permits and agency charges across accommodation, guiding, boating and vehicle rental value chains, with the goal of eliminating unnecessary fees that push operators toward dollar pricing. Tourism economists say pricing reform will only be effective if paired with incentives that encourage operators to accept local currency and invest in domestic marketing. Proposed measures include tax breaks for establishments that publish local rates, a transparent and stable official exchange rate for tourism transactions, and a tourist-voucher scheme to boost weekday occupancy among local visitors. Operators warn that sudden, unfunded policy shifts could strain businesses already coping with utility costs and staffing shortages. The ministry appears to favour a phased approach: publish pricing guidelines, introduce pilot local-rate incentives, and legislate where voluntary compliance fails. If implemented coherently, the reforms Rwodzi outlines could rebalance access to Zimbabwe’s attractions, deepen domestic demand, and help convert recent international recognition into broad social gains. Observers will watch whether promised timelines and industry engagement translate into lower admission fees and more Zimbabwean families at national parks and cultural sites.

Zimbabwe’s October inflation figures show a sharp drop under the ZiG currency, but economists and traders question whether the decline reflects real stabilisation or statistical adjustments masking ongoing price pressures ( image source ) Zimbabwe’s new currency, the ZiG, recorded a dramatic headline drop in inflation for October, with official figures showing a fall of roughly 50 percentage points. The sharp decline has been met with cautious optimism by some policymakers and sharp skepticism from economists and consumers who say the change does not match everyday experience. Official releases indicated month-on-month inflation tumbled from high double digits to a markedly lower rate in October. Finance authorities attributed the fall to tighter monetary policy measures and steps to stabilise the currency since its launch, arguing the move reflects early success in curbing runaway price growth. “Monetary measures are beginning to yield results,” a government statement said. Despite the announcement, market actors and independent economists warn that headline figures may mask underlying volatility. Retailers and household shoppers report that staple prices — bread, cooking oil, and maize meal — remain elevated, and that wage growth has not kept pace. Small-scale traders operating in urban markets said price adjustments are slow to reverse and supply-chain costs remain high. “The statistics show a number, but our tills tell another story,” said a Harare grocery owner. Economic analysts point to methodological and base-effect explanations for the dramatic shift. A fall of this magnitude can stem from changes in measurement timing, basket composition, or one-off price corrections rather than sustained disinflation. Dr. Prosper Chitambara, an independent economist, cautioned that headline drops must be corroborated by sustained monthly declines and real wage improvements before they count as durable stabilisation. “There is always a risk that measuring artefacts or temporary subsidies produce a misleading headline,” Chitambara said. Business groups have urged greater transparency on the inflation calculation and clearer communication from ZIMSTAT and the Ministry of Finance. The Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers called for regular, accessible breakdowns of how price indices are compiled and for measures to improve import logistics and reduce tax-driven price pressures. International investors and regional trading partners are watching closely, as credible, predictable inflation is crucial for trade, lending, and capital flows. If the drop reflects genuine stabilisation, it could ease the cost of capital and encourage investment; if it is cosmetic, confidence gains may evaporate. For households, the immediate measure of success will be whether living costs fall and wages gain purchasing power. Analysts recommend monitoring core inflation, food inflation, and wage trends over several months to judge whether October represents a turning point or a statistical blip.

Zimbabwean farmers are fighting back against cheap imports from South Africa and Zambia ( image source ) CHINHOYI, Zimbabwe  — Local farmers are ramping up efforts to reclaim market share from imported agricultural products, as Zimbabwe’s rural economy faces mounting pressure from cheaper foreign goods flooding supermarkets and informal stalls. From tomatoes to poultry, imports — particularly from South Africa and Zambia — have undercut local producers, prompting calls for stronger policy support and smarter farming practices. “We’re not afraid of competition,” said Farai Chikukwa, a tomato farmer in Banket. “But we need a level playing field.” According to the Zimbabwe Farmers Union (ZFU), imports of fresh produce have surged by over 40% since 2022, driven by regional trade liberalisation and Zimbabwe’s own production shortfalls. While consumers benefit from lower prices, local producers say they’re being squeezed out. “Imported goods often bypass quality checks and flood the market,” said Paul Zakariya, ZFU Executive Director. “It’s hard for our farmers to compete when costs are rising and enforcement is weak.” The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development has acknowledged the issue, launching the Accelerated Irrigation Rehabilitation Programme and expanding access to inputs under the Presidential Input Scheme. But farmers say more needs to be done to protect domestic production. In response, many farmers are turning to innovation. In Mashonaland West, cooperatives are experimenting with drip irrigation, greenhouse farming, and mobile-based market platforms to reduce waste and improve margins. “We’ve started selling directly to urban buyers using WhatsApp groups,” said Tariro Mudzonga, a poultry farmer in Kadoma. “It cuts out the middlemen and gives us better prices.” The Zimbabwe Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Services (ZAKIS) initiative, backed by the EU and FAO, has also helped farmers adopt climate-smart techniques and improve post-harvest handling. Economists argue that Zimbabwe must strike a balance between regional trade obligations and domestic protection. While the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) promotes open markets, countries like Kenya and Nigeria have used selective tariffs and quotas to shield key sectors. “Zimbabwe should consider temporary safeguards for vulnerable crops,” said Dr. Prosper Matondi, an agricultural policy expert. “Otherwise, we risk hollowing out our rural economy.” The government has hinted at reviewing import licensing and strengthening border checks, but implementation remains patchy. With over 60% of Zimbabwe’s population dependent on agriculture, the stakes are high. Farmers say they’re ready to compete but need fair access to finance, infrastructure, and markets. “We’re not asking for handouts,” said Chikukwa. “Just stop dumping foreign goods and let us grow.”

Zimbabwean experts urge the government to embed mental health support into disaster preparedness plans, warning that trauma and stress are critical yet overlooked in recovery from floods, droughts, and epidemics ( image source ) HARARE — Mental health advocates and disaster response specialists are urging Zimbabwe to embed psychological support in all disaster preparedness and recovery frameworks, warning that trauma and stress are too often ignored in the aftermath of floods, droughts, and disease outbreaks. Speaking at the 2025 National Disaster Risk Reduction Symposium in Harare, stakeholders said that without addressing the emotional toll of disasters, national resilience will remain incomplete. “We cannot build resilience without addressing the emotional toll disasters take,” said Dr. Patience Moyo, a clinical psychologist and advisor to the Civil Protection Unit. Zimbabwe has endured a string of climate-related crises in recent years — from Cyclone Idai (2019) and the 2023 cholera outbreak to prolonged droughts that threaten food security. While recovery efforts tend to prioritise infrastructure and humanitarian aid, mental health remains chronically underfunded. “Survivors suffer silently,” said Tawanda Chikore, a social worker in Chimanimani. “Many develop PTSD, depression, or anxiety, but there’s no system to catch them.” A 2024 University of Zimbabwe study found that over 60% of disaster survivors showed signs of trauma, yet fewer than 10% received psychological support. The Ministry of Health and Child Care has begun integrating mental health services into its Community-Based Disaster Preparedness Framework, piloting initiatives in Manicaland and Masvingo. These include training first responders in psychological first aid and deploying mobile counselling units. “We’re building capacity at the grassroots level,” said Dr. Agnes Mahomva, Chief Coordinator for the National Response. “But we need more funding and cross-sector collaboration.” International partners such as UNICEF Zimbabwe and the World Health Organization have endorsed the effort, citing evidence that mental health interventions accelerate long-term recovery and enhance community stability. Experts warn that untreated trauma erodes productivity, education, and social cohesion — especially in rural regions where livelihoods are already fragile. “Mental health is an economic issue,” said Dr. Tapiwa Nyatsanza, a public health economist. “If people can’t cope, they can’t work, learn, or rebuild.” The push comes as Zimbabwe updates its National Disaster Risk Reduction Strategy (2026–2030), with consultations underway to make psychosocial support a mandatory element of preparedness and recovery. Advocates stress that as climate change intensifies, building psychological resilience must be treated with the same urgency as rebuilding roads and shelters. “We must prepare minds as well as roads and shelters,” said Dr. Moyo. “Resilience starts from within.”

The arrest of Zimbabwean truck drivers in KwaZulu-Natal has sparked renewed debate over cross-border transport regulations, trade disruption, and the need for harmonised permit systems between Zimbabwe and South Africa ( image source ) South African authorities arrested a group of Zimbabwean truck drivers in KwaZulu-Natal in an operation that local officials say targeted permit violations and overloaded vehicles. The arrests have renewed concern among logistics firms and cross-border trade associations over regulatory compliance and the economic fallout for regional goods movement. The operation, conducted during routine traffic enforcement, led to several drivers being detained near the Pietermaritzburg corridor. Officials cited offences including lack of valid cross-border permits and exceeding axle load limits, which South African transport authorities say endanger road safety and accelerate infrastructure damage. “We enforce regulations to protect our roads and the travelling public,” said a provincial transport official. Drivers and their employers argue that administrative hurdles, long permit processing times, and opaque enforcement practices complicate cross-border operations. One detained driver said he had been waiting weeks for a new permit and continued to operate under an expired document to meet contractual obligations. “We deliver essential goods. Delays in permits hold us back and threaten livelihoods,” the driver said. Logistics firms based in Harare warned that frequent arrests and vehicle impoundments disrupt supply chains and increase freight costs. The Zimbabwe Cross-Border Traders Association urged both governments to simplify permit systems and fast-track mutual recognition of documents to reduce friction at key nodes such as Beitbridge and Chirundu. Transport analysts highlight that overloaded trucks are a persistent safety risk and a key cause of road deterioration. They recommend capacity building for drivers and fleet owners on load regulations, and investments in weighbridges and digital permit platforms to improve compliance. “The goal should be safer roads and smoother trade, not punitive disruption,” said an industry analyst. Bilateral coordination has improved in recent years through memoranda of understanding on transport and border management, but enforcement spikes can still cause diplomatic tension. Zimbabwean consular officials in South Africa are reported to be engaging local authorities to resolve cases and ensure humane treatment of detained nationals. Industry stakeholders warn that recurring enforcement without parallel administrative reform will raise costs for importers and exporters, squeeze margins for small traders, and encourage informal routing that undermines revenue and safety. Policymakers are being urged to harmonise permit processing timelines, improve transparency on enforcement actions, and invest in driver training to balance safety and trade facilitation.

Beef and veal prices in Zimbabwe have jumped nearly 15%, outpacing grocery inflation ( image source ) HARARE — Zimbabwean households are feeling the strain as retail prices for beef and veal continue to climb sharply, outpacing broader grocery inflation and adding pressure to already stretched family budgets. Market traders and consumers say the latest monthly figures show beef and veal costs rising by nearly 15 percent, a jump reverberating through restaurants, butcheries, and informal markets across Harare and provincial centres. Suppliers and abattoir operators point to a combination of factors driving the surge: higher feed and fuel costs, diminished herd sizes after years of drought, logistical bottlenecks along key transport corridors, and currency volatility that raises the local cost of imported inputs. Small-scale cattle producers report that feed prices alone have eroded margins, forcing many to sell animals earlier than planned and reducing the supply of mature stock for slaughter. “Feed and diesel costs have left us with no option but to offload young animals,” said a cattle farmer in Mashonaland West. “That means less prime beef in the market and higher prices for consumers.” Butcheries in Harare describe a pattern of shrinking carcass weights and inconsistent deliveries from abattoirs, prompting retailers to raise per-kilogram prices and tighten portion sizes. Restaurateurs are revising menus and substituting cheaper proteins, while street vendors report reduced sales as customers switch to chicken, offal, or plant-based options. “Customers are buying less beef and asking for smaller portions,” said a city butcher. “We see demand shifting, not disappearing.” Economists warn that the meat-price surge could have knock-on effects on headline inflation and food security. Food costs make up a major share of household expenditure, and sustained increases in meat prices risk worsening malnutrition among low-income families that rely on affordable protein sources. Analysts urge policymakers to stabilise livestock input costs through feed subsidies, fuel relief for transporters, and pasture rehabilitation support. Trade and logistics experts highlight regional factors, noting that South African and Mozambican markets heavily influence local beef supplies. Any disruptions or delays on those trade routes can quickly transmit price shocks into Zimbabwe. Improved coordination at border posts and faster clearance for refrigerated consignments could help ease short-term supply constraints. Civil-society groups have called for consumer protections, including transparent price reporting from abattoirs and retailers, and temporary safeguards against price gouging during supply shocks. Nutrition advocates meanwhile urge diversification of protein sources and promotion of locally affordable alternatives to maintain dietary balance. For consumers, coping strategies remain predictable: reduce beef consumption, buy cheaper cuts, and consolidate purchases. Whether prices stabilise will depend on rainfall patterns for pasture recovery, transport costs, and government policy measures to support producers and streamline supply chains.

Nearly half of Southern Africa’s population still lacks access to clean energy, experts warn, urging stronger regional cooperation and investment to meet the UN’s 2030 universal energy goal ( image source ) HARARE — Despite ambitious regional energy plans, nearly 200 million people in Southern Africa still lack access to clean and modern energy services, according to the Southern African Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (SACREEE). The figure represents 50% of the region’s population, underscoring the urgent need for inclusive energy policies and infrastructure investment. “Energy access is not just a development issue — it’s a human rights issue,” said Kudakwashe Ndhlukula, SACREEE Executive Director, during the launch of the SADC 2026 Sustainable Week. Southern Africa’s energy landscape is marked by stark disparities. While urban centres enjoy relatively stable electricity, rural communities remain heavily reliant on biomass, kerosene, and charcoal, which pose both health and environmental risks. “Transmission constraints and affordability remain major barriers,” Ndhlukula added. The region’s average energy access rate hovers around 50%, with countries like Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Mozambique lagging behind South Africa and Namibia. Experts warn that without targeted interventions, the gap will widen, especially as population growth continues to outpace infrastructure development. The Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) 2025, endorsed by South Africa’s government and supported by utilities such as Eskom and NECSA, aims to diversify the energy mix and expand access through renewables, nuclear, and battery storage. However, implementation across borders remains uneven. “We need harmonised frameworks and shared investment strategies,” said Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, South Africa’s Minister of Electricity and Energy. The South African Renewable Energy Masterplan (SAREM), approved in April 2025, outlines a roadmap for clean power expansion, including green hydrogen and industrial value chains, but regional coordination remains in its infancy. Zimbabwe has made strides in solar energy deployment, with rural electrification projects supported by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and private sector players. Yet, grid instability and limited financing continue to hamper progress. “Solar is viable, but we need better incentives and technical support,” said Tinashe Mudzviti, an energy entrepreneur in Mutoko. The government is exploring partnerships with SACREEE and the African Development Bank (AfDB) to scale up mini-grid systems and off-grid solutions, particularly in remote areas. Experts say achieving universal energy access by 2030 — a key UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 7) — will require bold policy reforms, regional cooperation, and greater private sector engagement. “Clean energy is the foundation of economic growth and climate resilience,” said Ndhlukula. “We must act now.”