Vice President Chiwenga has applauded the US$30 million Orange Ville Juicing Plant in Beitbridge ( image source ) BEITBRIDGE – Vice President Dr. Constantino Chiwenga has praised the newly operational Orange Ville Juicing Plant in Beitbridge as a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s rural industrialisation agenda, describing it as a “strategic investment” aligned with Vision 2030. The US$30 million citrus processing facility, which began operations in July 2025, has already crushed over 25,000 tonnes of oranges and currently employs 290 people, with plans to scale up to 3,000 jobs as production expands. The plant is one of the largest of its kind in Southern Africa. “This project is a practical demonstration of our commitment to transforming rural economies through value addition,” said Chiwenga during a tour of the facility. The Vice President’s visit forms part of a broader government effort to assess high-impact projects in Matabeleland South. The Orange Ville plant is expected to anchor a regional citrus value chain, linking smallholder farmers to export markets and agro-processing hubs. Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana confirmed the visit, noting that the plant is already supplying juice concentrate to local beverage manufacturers and exploring export deals with regional buyers. “Beitbridge is no longer just a border town — it’s becoming an agro-industrial hub,” Mangwana said. The plant’s success is attributed to public-private partnerships and targeted incentives under the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA). Local farmers have welcomed the project, citing improved market access and stable pricing. “We used to sell oranges for a song. Now we have contracts and guaranteed buyers,” said farmer Tapiwa Ncube from Mtetengwe. The facility also includes a solar-powered cold storage unit and a water recycling system, aligning with Zimbabwe’s green industrialisation goals. Officials say the plant will reduce post-harvest losses and improve food security. Economists view the project as a model for rural development, combining infrastructure, employment, and export potential. However, they caution that replication will require consistent policy support and access to affordable financing. “This is a blueprint for inclusive growth,” said agro-economist Dr. Nyasha Kaseke. “We need more of these across provinces.” The Orange Ville Juicing Plant is part of the Second Republic’s push to decentralize industrial activity and empower rural communities. Other projects in the pipeline include tomato processing in Mutoko and dairy hubs in Gokwe.

Zimbabwe’s retail sector is expected to grow by 5.1% in 2025, but analysts warn that high operational costs, informal competition, and infrastructure challenges threaten sustained recovery ( image source ) HARARE – Zimbabwe’s retail sector is projected to grow by 5.1% in 2025, according to the latest industry forecasts, but analysts warn that the expansion is fragile and heavily dependent on resolving persistent economic constraints and adapting to the informal economy’s dominance. The growth outlook, published by Fincent Securities and echoed by the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI), suggests a modest recovery driven by urban demand, digital commerce, and the resilience of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). However, retailers continue to grapple with high financing costs, tight liquidity, erratic power supply, and complex tax regulations. “Retailers are walking a tightrope,” said CZI economist Tafadzwa Makoni. “While consumer demand is recovering, the cost of doing business remains prohibitive for many formal operators.” The sector’s transformation is most visible in the shift from large chain stores to agile SMEs and informal traders. According to Propertybook, Zimbabwe’s retail property market is undergoing its biggest shake-up in decades, with rental rates and investment strategies adapting to the rise of small-scale operators. Major retail chains such as OK Zimbabwe and TM Pick n Pay have reported stable revenues but shrinking margins, citing increased competition from informal vendors and parallel market pricing. Informal traders, often operating outside tax and regulatory frameworks, continue to undercut formal retailers on price and flexibility. “We’re seeing a dual economy in retail,” said Makoni. “Formal stores offer reliability and quality, but informal traders dominate on price and accessibility.” The government has acknowledged the challenge and is working to streamline regulations. Earlier this year, the CZI proposed a Presidential directive to harmonize licensing, reduce tax burdens, and improve access to affordable financing for retailers. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce is reportedly reviewing the proposal. Meanwhile, digital commerce is emerging as a growth driver. Mobile money platforms and social media marketplaces are enabling micro-retailers to reach customers across the country. WhatsApp-based ordering and EcoCash payments are now standard in urban and peri-urban areas. “Digital retail is the new frontier,” said Rudo Chikafu, a Harare-based retail consultant. “It’s low-cost, scalable, and consumer-friendly.” Despite the challenges, some segments are outperforming. Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), clothing, and household electronics are seeing steady demand, especially in high-density suburbs. Retailers that offer flexible payment plans and loyalty programs are gaining traction. However, power outages and foreign currency shortages continue to disrupt supply chains. Retailers often rely on diesel generators and informal forex markets to restock imported goods, adding to operational costs. Industry players are calling for a national retail strategy to formalize informal trade, improve infrastructure, and support digital transformation. Without such reforms, Zimbabwe’s retail sector risks stagnation despite its growth potential.

MP Tafanana Zhou has called for chemical castration of convicted child rapists in Zimbabwe ( image source ) HARARE – Member of Parliament for Mberengwa West, Tafanana Zhou, has called for chemical castration of convicted child rapists, citing a disturbing rise in sexual abuse cases across Zimbabwe. His remarks were made during a heated parliamentary debate on child protection laws. Zhou said the current penalties for child sexual abuse are insufficient and fail to deter repeat offenders. He urged lawmakers to consider harsher punishments, including irreversible medical procedures for those convicted of raping minors. “We must protect our children with every tool available,” Zhou said. “These predators deserve no second chance.” The proposal has sparked intense debate among legal experts, human rights advocates, and child protection organizations. While some support tougher sentencing, others warn that castration violates constitutional rights and international human rights conventions. “Chemical castration is a controversial and extreme measure,” said lawyer Linda Gwatidzo. “Zimbabwe must uphold the rule of law and avoid cruel or inhumane punishment.” Zhou’s comments come amid alarming statistics from the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, which reported a 22% increase in child sexual abuse cases in the first half of 2025. Most victims are girls under the age of 14, and perpetrators are often family members or trusted community figures. The Ministry of Justice is currently reviewing the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, with proposals to increase mandatory minimum sentences for sexual offences against minors. Civil society groups are also pushing for improved victim support services and faster prosecution timelines. “Justice delayed is justice denied,” said Memory Mudzviti, director of ChildSafe Zimbabwe. “We need survivor-centered reforms.” Public reaction to Zhou’s proposal has been mixed. On social media, some users expressed support for radical measures, while others called for rehabilitation and education programs to address root causes of abuse. “We must balance justice with humanity,” said Gwatidzo. “Punishment alone won’t solve the problem.” Zimbabwe’s Constitution prohibits torture and cruel punishment, and any amendment to allow castration would require a two-thirds parliamentary majority and judicial review. Legal analysts say such a move would face significant hurdles.

Zimbabwe’s retail property market is shifting toward SMEs, informal traders, and mixed-use developments as traditional large retailers downsize and landlords adapt to economic realities and changing consumer behavior ( image source ) HARARE – Zimbabwe’s retail property market is undergoing a major transformation in 2025, as the dominance of large chain stores gives way to a vibrant ecosystem of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and mixed-use developments, according to a new report by Propertybook. The shift is driven by changing consumer behavior, the rise of informal trade, and the economic realities of operating in a high-inflation, low-credit environment. Retail landlords are adapting by subdividing large spaces, offering flexible leases, and targeting SMEs as anchor tenants. “The traditional model of big-box retail is no longer viable in many urban centers,” said Propertybook analyst Tendai Mataranyika. “Landlords are pivoting to smaller, more agile tenants who can pay in forex or mobile money.” In Harare’s CBD, formerly dominant retailers like Edgars and Jet have downsized, while previously vacant spaces are now occupied by boutiques, mobile phone shops, and fast-food outlets. In high-density suburbs such as Chitungwiza and Glen View, informal traders are converting residential garages and verandas into thriving tuck-shops and salons. Rental rates have also adjusted. According to Propertybook, prime retail space in Harare’s CBD now averages US$15–20 per square metre, down from US$30 in 2020. In contrast, suburban strip malls and roadside stalls are commanding higher premiums due to foot traffic and lower overheads. “Retail is decentralizing,” said Mataranyika. “Consumers want convenience, and retailers are following them into the townships.” The rise of digital commerce is also reshaping retail property demand. With more Zimbabweans shopping via WhatsApp, Facebook Marketplace, and e-commerce platforms like ZimexMall, some retailers are opting for warehousing and delivery hubs over traditional storefronts. Developers are responding with mixed-use properties that combine retail, residential, and office space. Projects in areas like Madokero, Sunway City, and Ruwa are attracting both investors and tenants seeking affordability and flexibility. “Mixed-use developments are the future of urban retail,” said Rumbidzai Chikomo, a real estate consultant. “They offer lifestyle convenience and reduce operational risk.” However, challenges remain. Power outages, currency instability, and limited access to long-term financing continue to weigh on investor confidence. The Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA) has called for policy clarity and incentives to attract diaspora and foreign capital into the property sector. Despite the hurdles, analysts say the retail property market is showing signs of resilience and innovation. With SMEs and informal traders now central to the economy, the sector is evolving to reflect Zimbabwe’s new commercial realities.

Zimbabwe’s business sector warns that delayed government payments are undermining confidence in the ZiG currency, urging fiscal discipline to sustain its stability and credibility ( image source ) HARARE – Zimbabwe’s business community has warned that the survival and credibility of the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency hinges on the government’s ability to ensure timely payments to suppliers and contractors, according to a position paper submitted by the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) ahead of the 2026 National Budget. The paper, which outlines key recommendations for fiscal and monetary policy, emphasizes that delayed payments — especially by government departments — are undermining confidence in the newly introduced ZiG currency and threatening its long-term viability. “The ZiG cannot thrive in an environment of payment uncertainty,” the CZI document states. “Timely settlement of obligations is essential to build trust and liquidity.” The ZiG, launched earlier this year as part of Zimbabwe’s currency reform, is backed by gold reserves and intended to stabilize inflation and restore monetary sovereignty. However, businesses say the currency’s adoption is being hampered by inconsistent payment practices and limited convertibility. “We are seeing cases where suppliers are paid months late, and often in depreciated value,” said CZI president Kurai Matsheza. “This erodes confidence and discourages participation in the formal economy.” The position paper calls for the Treasury to ring-fence payments in ZiG and ensure that ministries and parastatals settle invoices within 30 days. It also recommends the establishment of a ZiG Liquidity Support Facility to help businesses manage cash flow disruptions. Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube has acknowledged the concerns and said the government is working to improve fiscal discipline and payment systems. He pledged to prioritize supplier payments in the 2026 budget and expand digital platforms for real-time tracking. “We are committed to making ZiG a trusted and functional currency,” Ncube said. “Efficiency in payments is a cornerstone of that goal.” Economists say the success of ZiG depends not only on its gold backing but also on its usability and credibility in day-to-day transactions. Delayed payments, especially in the public sector, risk creating a parallel market and undermining the currency’s stability. “ZiG must be more than a policy tool — it must be a reliable medium of exchange,” said economist Dr. Nyasha Kaseke. “Timely payments are a litmus test for its credibility.” The CZI paper also calls for broader reforms, including improved public procurement transparency, reduced fiscal deficits, and alignment of monetary policy with growth targets. It urges the government to consult widely and adopt a pro-business stance in the upcoming budget. Meanwhile, some businesses have begun demanding partial payments in U.S. dollars to hedge against ZiG volatility, raising concerns about dual pricing and currency fragmentation. “We want to support ZiG, but we need assurances,” said a Harare-based manufacturer who requested anonymity.

Zimbabwe’s housing minister Daniel Garwe has urged home seekers to verify land transactions with councils ( image source ) HARARE – Zimbabwe’s Minister of National Housing and Social Amenities, Daniel Garwe, has urged prospective home buyers to verify land transactions with local authorities before making payments, warning that land fraud is on the rise and costing citizens millions. Speaking during a housing policy review workshop in Harare, Garwe said the government is concerned about the proliferation of bogus land sales, particularly in peri-urban areas such as Chitungwiza, Ruwa, and Norton. He emphasized that only councils and approved cooperatives have the legal mandate to allocate residential stands. “We are seeing an alarming increase in cases where people are duped by fake land developers,” Garwe said. “Before you pay a cent, verify with your local council.” The warning comes after several high-profile arrests of land barons—individuals who illegally sell state or council land without title deeds. In September, police arrested two suspects in Epworth for selling land on wetlands, while dozens of victims were left without recourse. According to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), land fraud is now among the top five economic crimes in the country. The Commission has launched a joint task force with the Ministry of Local Government to audit land allocations and prosecute offenders. “We are working to dismantle these syndicates,” said ZACC spokesperson John Makamure. “But citizens must also exercise due diligence.” Garwe said the government is finalizing a National Housing Bill, which will tighten oversight of housing cooperatives and introduce penalties for unregistered developers. The bill also proposes a digital land registry to improve transparency and reduce manipulation of records. “We want to make land transactions traceable and secure,” Garwe added. Home seekers have welcomed the minister’s call but say councils must also improve service delivery. Many complain of delays in processing applications, poor communication, and corruption within council offices. “We’ve been waiting for our stand approval for over a year,” said Tafadzwa Moyo, a resident of Ruwa. “It’s frustrating, and that’s why people turn to shortcuts.” Real estate experts say the demand for housing in Zimbabwe far exceeds supply, creating fertile ground for fraud. The country needs an estimated 1.5 million new housing units by 2030, according to the Zimbabwe National Human Settlements Policy.

Zimbabwe is reviewing the salaries and conditions of state-employed journalists as part of wider media sector reforms ( image source ) HARARE – The Government of Zimbabwe is reviewing the salaries and working conditions of journalists employed in the public sector, in a move aimed at improving media professionalism, morale, and retention, according to Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr. Jenfan Muswere. Speaking at the 2024–2025 National Journalism and Media Awards (NJAMA) held in Harare, Dr. Muswere said the review is part of broader reforms to modernize the country’s media landscape and ensure that state-employed journalists are adequately compensated for their role in informing the public. “We are committed to uplifting the welfare of public sector journalists,” said Muswere. “Their work is essential to democracy, national development, and social cohesion.” The review will cover journalists working for state-owned media houses such as the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation, The Herald, Chronicle, New Ziana, and other government communication departments. It includes salary adjustments, housing allowances, transport support, and improved access to training and digital tools. The announcement comes amid growing concerns over poor remuneration and working conditions in the media sector. Many journalists, particularly in the public sector, earn below the poverty datum line and face challenges such as outdated equipment, limited mobility, and job insecurity. “We welcome the government’s commitment, but we need timelines and transparency,” said Takunda Chikowore, president of the Zimbabwe Union of Journalists. “Journalists are frontline workers in the information economy and deserve decent livelihoods.” Zimbabwe’s media landscape has undergone reforms in recent years, including the licensing of new television and community radio stations, the repeal of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, and the establishment of the Zimbabwe Media Commission as an independent regulator. However, the industry continues to grapple with political interference, shrinking advertising revenues, and competition from fast-growing digital media platforms. The COVID-19 pandemic further strained newsrooms, leading to wage cuts and job losses. Dr. Muswere said government is working with the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service Commission to finalize the salary adjustment framework. He also urged private media employers to improve conditions for their workers and uphold ethical standards. “A well-resourced journalist is a more effective journalist,” he said. “We must invest in the people who tell our national story.” Media watchdog groups have welcomed the initiative but emphasized that journalist welfare must be accompanied by expanded protections for press freedom, including safeguards against harassment and legal reforms to decriminalize defamation. The NJAMA ceremony recognized outstanding work in investigative reporting, community journalism, and digital innovation.

Zimbabwe’s informal economy accounts for nearly two-thirds of national activity, yet formalisation efforts remain strained by mistrust, bureaucracy, and limited incentives for vendors and cross-border traders ( image source ) HARARE – Zimbabwe’s informal economy continues to dominate the national economic landscape, accounting for an estimated 64.7% of total economic activity in 2025, according to World Economics and the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC). Despite its scale, efforts to formalize the sector remain slow and fragmented. From Mbare Musika’s bustling vegetable stalls to the cross-border traders at Beitbridge and Chirundu, informal commerce is the lifeblood of millions. With formal unemployment hovering above 80%, many Zimbabweans rely on vending, cross-border trading, and home-based enterprises to survive. “The informal sector is not just a fallback – it’s the primary economy for most Zimbabweans,” said Thabisani Dube, a researcher with the ZNCC. Yet, the sector operates largely outside the tax net, depriving the government of much-needed revenue. ZIMRA has launched several campaigns to register informal traders, but uptake remains low due to mistrust, red tape, and lack of incentives. “Formalisation must come with benefits – access to credit, infrastructure, and protection,” said Dube. “Otherwise, it’s just another tax burden.” A 2025 policy brief by the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and SMEs revealed that over 70% of informal traders are women, many of whom operate without licenses or fixed premises. These traders face frequent harassment, confiscation of goods, and limited access to markets. The government has piloted “Smart Markets” in Harare and Bulawayo – digitally managed vending spaces with sanitation, security, and mobile payment systems. However, rollout has been slow due to funding constraints and political interference. “We need to stop criminalizing survival,” said Rudo Mupfumira, a vendor at Mupedzanhamo Market. “Give us proper spaces and we’ll pay our dues.” Cross-border trade, particularly with South Africa, Zambia, and Mozambique, remains a key pillar of the informal economy. Traders import groceries, clothing, and electronics, often using informal transport networks and parallel currency markets to navigate border bureaucracy. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents an opportunity to integrate informal traders into regional value chains. However, experts warn that without simplified customs procedures and financial inclusion, small traders will remain marginalized. “AfCFTA must work for the smallest players, not just big corporates,” said economist Dr. Gift Mugano. Formalising the informal sector is a key pillar of Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), but progress has been uneven. Analysts say a coordinated approach involving local authorities, financial institutions, and civil society is essential to unlock the full economic potential of the majority.

Five Zimbabweans have been convicted in the UK for a £300,000 NHS fraud scheme involving fake refund transactions, with sentencing expected in November ( image source ) LONDON – Five Zimbabwean nationals have been convicted in the United Kingdom for their roles in a £300,000 (US$365,000) fraud and money laundering scheme targeting the National Health Service (NHS), following a six-week trial at Southwark Crown Court. The scheme was orchestrated by Edias Mazambani (42), a credit controller at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust in London. Prosecutors revealed that Mazambani abused his privileged access to NHS financial systems to process fake refund requests linked to patient funds. “Mazambani used his access to confidential financial data to steal over £218,000 and attempt a further £84,000,” said Ben Harrison, Head of Operations at the NHS Counter Fraud Authority (NHSCFA). The fraud was uncovered by the hospital’s finance department after staff noticed suspicious refund patterns. A search of Mazambani’s home revealed evidence of the scheme, including forged documents and digital records. Four other Zimbabweans were convicted of money laundering: • George Magaya (48) – pleaded guilty to four counts of money laundering. • Rosemary Magaya (37) and Michelle Tengende (40) – found guilty of laundering NHS funds. • Sinqobile Pasipanodya (43) – convicted of laundering proceeds linked to the scheme. All five had previously denied the charges but were found guilty based on forensic financial evidence and digital trails. Sentencing is scheduled for November, with prosecutors seeking custodial terms. The NHSCFA said the case highlights the importance of internal controls and whistleblower mechanisms in public institutions. “This was a serious breach of trust,” said Harrison. “We commend the finance team for their vigilance and swift action.” The convictions have sparked debate within Zimbabwe’s diaspora community in the UK, with some calling for tighter vetting of public sector employees and better support for migrants facing financial hardship. “This case is a wake-up call,” said UK-based Zimbabwean activist Chipo Mudzviti. “We must uphold integrity wherever we are.” Zimbabwe’s embassy in London has not issued a formal statement but is reportedly monitoring the case. Legal experts say the convictions may affect future employment prospects for Zimbabwean professionals in the UK’s public sector.

Delta Corporation has paid over US$240 million in taxes to ZIMRA following a surge in beverage sales ( image source ) HARARE – Delta Corporation, Zimbabwe’s largest beverage manufacturer, has paid over US$240 million in taxes to the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) for the fiscal year ending September 2025, reflecting a strong rebound in formal sector performance and consumer demand. The tax contribution includes corporate income tax, excise duty, and value-added tax (VAT), making Delta one of the top contributors to the national fiscus. The company’s latest financial results show a 15% year-on-year growth in revenue, driven by increased volumes in lager beer, sorghum beer, and sparkling beverages. “Delta’s tax footprint is a barometer of formal sector resilience,” said Tapiwa Mudzviti, a Harare-based tax consultant. “It also signals the effectiveness of ZIMRA’s compliance enforcement in high-volume industries.” Delta’s flagship brands Castle Lager, Chibuku Super, and Coca-Cola continue to dominate the market, buoyed by improved distribution networks and stable electricity supply. The company has also benefited from the relative stability of the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency, which has helped reduce input costs and foreign exchange losses. According to Delta’s annual report, the company invested in cold chain infrastructure and route-to-market technologies, enabling deeper penetration into peri-urban and rural markets. This has helped formalize previously informal alcohol and soft drink sales, increasing taxable revenue. “We’ve seen a shift in consumer behavior toward trusted brands, especially in urban centers,” said Delta’s CEO, Matlhogonolo Valela. “Our focus remains on product availability and affordability.” ZIMRA has intensified efforts to widen the tax base, particularly targeting informal traders and mobile money agents. However, the formal sector remains the backbone of revenue collection, with companies like Delta setting the pace. The beverage industry is also benefiting from a post-COVID recovery in leisure and hospitality, with bars, restaurants, and bottle stores reporting increased foot traffic. Analysts say this trend is likely to continue into the festive season, further boosting Delta’s sales. “Delta’s performance is a microcosm of Zimbabwe’s consumer economy,” said economist Dr. Prosper Chitambara. “It shows that despite macroeconomic challenges, pockets of growth exist.” Delta’s tax contribution is expected to support government spending on infrastructure, health, and education. The Ministry of Finance has welcomed the payment, calling it a “model of corporate citizenship.”

KHARTOUM – Siham Hassan, a former member of Sudan’s parliament and a prominent humanitarian figure in North Darfur, was reportedly executed by Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia in the besieged city of Al-Fashir earlier today, according to multiple regional sources and resistance networks. Hassan, known for running community kitchens that fed thousands of displaced and starving civilians in Al-Fashir, had remained in the city despite escalating violence. Her death marks a grim escalation in the RSF’s campaign to seize control of the last Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) stronghold in Darfur. “She was a symbol of civilian resistance and compassion,” said a member of the Al-Fashir Resistance Committee, speaking anonymously for security reasons. “Her execution is a message to all who dare to defy RSF rule.” The RSF, a paramilitary group accused of war crimes and ethnic cleansing in Darfur, has intensified its assault on Al-Fashir in recent weeks. According to online reports, the group claims to have captured the SAF’s Six Infantry Division base, effectively dismantling the last organized military resistance in the region. Hassan’s humanitarian work had earned her respect across political divides. She was known for organizing food distribution, shelter, and medical aid in Zamzam and Abu Shouk camps, often using her own resources and networks to bypass blockades. “She fed the hungry when no one else could,” said Mariam El-Tayeb, a nurse who worked with Hassan. “She was fearless and selfless.” Her execution has sparked outrage among Sudanese civil society groups and international observers. The Darfur Bar Association condemned the killing as a war crime and called for urgent international intervention to protect civilians in Al-Fashir. “This is not just a tragedy—it’s a crime against humanity,” the association said in a statement. The RSF has denied targeting civilians, claiming that its operations are aimed at “liberating” Al-Fashir from SAF-aligned forces and armed militias. However, other online reports describe widespread atrocities, including drone strikes on civilian areas, looting, and forced displacement. Humanitarian agencies say over 300,000 residents remain trapped in Al-Fashir, with dwindling access to food, water, and medical supplies. The UN has called for a ceasefire and safe corridors for aid delivery, but negotiations have stalled. “Al-Fashir is on the brink of a humanitarian catastrophe,” said UN Special Envoy Volker Perthes. “The world must act.” Siham Hassan’s legacy as a humanitarian and public servant is being mourned across Sudan and the diaspora. Her death underscores the brutal cost of the ongoing conflict and the urgent need for international accountability.

More than 500 Cowdray Park residents in Bulawayo have received title deeds under the Presidential Title Deeds Programme ( image source ) BULAWAYO – More than 500 residents of Cowdray Park in Bulawayo have received title deeds to their homes under the Presidential Title Deeds Programme, marking a major milestone in Zimbabwe’s push to formalize urban settlements and empower homeowners. The handover ceremony, held on 25 October, was presided over by Bulawayo Provincial Affairs Minister Judith Ncube, who said the initiative will provide security of tenure, unlock property value, and promote investment in housing infrastructure. “This is a transformative moment for Cowdray Park,” said Ncube. “Title deeds give residents dignity, legal protection, and access to credit.” Cowdray Park is one of Zimbabwe’s largest high-density suburbs, with over 15,000 households, many of which have lived without formal ownership for decades. The Presidential scheme aims to regularize such settlements by issuing title deeds to qualifying residents. The programme is part of the Second Republic’s urban renewal agenda, which includes upgrading roads, water systems, and sanitation in underserved communities. Officials say the title deeds will also help local authorities improve revenue collection through formal property rates. “We can now plan better and deliver services more efficiently,” said Bulawayo City Council spokesperson Nesisa Mpofu. Beneficiaries expressed joy and relief, saying the title deeds end years of uncertainty and open doors to financial inclusion. “I can finally use my house as collateral to start a business,” said resident Thulani Moyo. “This changes everything.” The government has pledged to extend the programme to other suburbs, including Epworth, Caledonia, and Hopley in Harare. The Ministry of National Housing is working with the Deeds Office and local councils to digitize land records and streamline verification processes. However, housing experts warn that the rollout must be transparent and inclusive. Past land regularization efforts have been marred by corruption and political favoritism. “We need clear criteria and community oversight,” said housing analyst Tendai Mataranyika. “Otherwise, the programme risks losing credibility.” The Presidential Title Deeds Programme is expected to issue over 1 million deeds nationwide by 2030, in line with the Zimbabwe National Human Settlements Policy.