Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume has criticised ZESA’s prepaid meter rollout on streetlights and traffic signals, warning it endangers public safety and calling for policy reforms to address arrears without risking darkness and accidents ( image source ) Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume has condemned ZESA’s installation of prepaid electricity meters on public infrastructure, warning that the policy threatens road safety, fuels crime and undermines municipal services. Mafume said fitting prepaid meters to tower lights, traffic signals and streetlights creates a “cobra effect” — a short-term technical fix that produces long-term public harm. Several tower-light disconnections in recent weeks have left suburbs in darkness, prompting urgent talks with ZESA to find alternatives. Utility’s rationale ZESA’s distribution arm, ZETDC, began installing prepaid meters on public lighting in mid-2025 to improve revenue collection and compel councils to settle arrears. Officials said the rollout, notified in 2024 and phased in with grace units, was designed to strengthen financial sustainability. Safety risks But the programme has already triggered outages of tower lights and traffic signals when councils failed to buy tokens, deepening urban darkness and raising risks of accidents and night-time crime. Local reports highlight shutdowns in satellite towns and fears of disrupted essential services. Policy critics argue the move offloads systemic debt management onto frontline infrastructure without tackling root causes of arrears, such as low fiscal transfers, weak revenue collection and tariff disputes. Mafume urged a policy rethink centred on public safety rather than blunt technical measures. National push for prepaid systems Government policy has pressed ZESA to expand prepaid and smart meters across parastatals and government offices to normalise upfront payment and secure cash flow for grid upgrades. ZESA also plans to replace aging meters nationwide with digital systems to cut losses and reduce billing disputes. “This prepaid electricity system has gone wild; it looks good on paper but has disastrous effects on the public,” Mafume said.

Zimbabwe will host Afghanistan in Harare for a one-off Test from 20–24 October and three T20Is from 29 October to 2 November, continuing a busy 2025 cricket calendar ( image source ) Zimbabwe will host Afghanistan for a one-off Test match followed by three Twenty20 internationals at Harare Sports Club later this month, a compact tour that tests Zimbabwe’s red-ball depth and offers a high-intensity T20 finish for local fans. The lone Test is scheduled for 20–24 October, with the three T20Is set for 29 October, 31 October and 2 November, all at Harare Sports Club, ensuring a single-venue series that simplifies logistics and concentrates spectator interest. Zimbabwe Cricket confirmed the fixtures and said the tour continues a busy 2025 calendar that has already seen the Chevrons face England, New Zealand, South Africa, Bangladesh and Ireland in the longest format, making this the nation’s tenth Test of the year and a stern examination of squad rotation and workload management. Afghanistan arrives as a well-rounded unit with match-winners in every department and pace and spin options that challenge Zimbabwe’s batting on home pitches; their recent success in Zimbabwe, including a 1–0 Test series win earlier this year, gives them a psychological edge but also familiarity with local conditions. For Zimbabwe, the Test offers a chance to arrest a run of heavy defeats in 2025 and to blood younger players ahead of a congested international calendar. Zimbabwe will likely rely on established all-rounders and senior batters to anchor innings while blooding promising fast bowlers before the T20 leg; Afghanistan’s attack, led by experienced spinners and seam options, will focus on exploiting any weaknesses against the new ball and on turning the Harare pitch with quality spin spells. All matches at Harare Sports Club mean single-venue ticketing, easier broadcast arrangements and a predictable match timetable, which should help domestic broadcasters and travelling supporters plan attendance; ticketing and matchday details will be released by Zimbabwe Cricket in the coming days. The two sides have developed a competitive rivalry in recent years, meeting across formats in Zimbabwe and Afghanistan with tightly contested encounters; Afghanistan’s rise as a Test-playing nation has produced several memorable duels, and the Harare fixtures are expected to draw strong local interest and regional broadcast attention. Key questions for the Test are whether Zimbabwe can withstand Afghanistan’s spin and whether home pacers can exploit early movement; in the T20s, power-hitting and death-over bowling will decide outcomes. For selectors, the series is a window to balance development and competitiveness ahead of next year’s international commitments.

Zimbabwe’s Urban Grooves star Roki has denied quitting music, confirming he is focused on producing and mentoring while preparing a December Amapiano single that could reignite his regional profile ( image source ) Rockford “Roki” Josphat has denied claims that he has left music and confirmed he is working behind the scenes as a producer and mentor while preparing a high-profile Amapiano single slated for December, his management and recent profiles say. Roki says his public visibility has reduced by design as he focuses on studio production and nurturing younger artists; he signalled that the December single will be a major regional collaboration aimed at reclaiming broader club and playlist traction across southern Africa. After a brief comeback in 2021 under Passion Java Records, Roki continued releasing material and working in recording studios in Harare and South Africa. Streaming metadata and recent releases cited on his Apple Music page list 2024’s single “Tell Me Baby (Disco Jawn)”  and the 2025 album “Rockford Gold,”  indicating sustained creative output despite fewer stage appearances. Gambakwe’s profile confirms Roki’s birthdate (7 July 1985), notes his relocation to Seke communal area and documents career highlights that include his breakthrough hit “Seiko”  and later regional exposure. Music industry observers say veteran artists increasingly pivot to producing and talent development to extend careers and generate catalog income; Amapiano remains commercially dominant across the region, making a December Amapiano release a strategic choice for radio, clubs and streaming playlists. Producers and label executives note that cross-border collaborations, especially with South African Amapiano acts, raise the odds of playlist inclusion and regional airplay. Video credits and distribution listings on Passion Java’s YouTube channel and other digital platforms show continued releases and promotional activity tied to Roki, while Gambakwe’s July profile provides personal-detail confirmation and a discography timeline that supports his claim of ongoing studio work. Local reportage and social-media activity by Passion Java and affiliated promoters support the timeline for a year-end rollout and smaller, mentor-led projects in the interim. Roki rose to national prominence with early-2000s hits and became a defining voice of Zimbabwe’s Urban Grooves scene; his career has included awards, television appearances and controversies, all chronicled in local media and profile pieces. Since 2021 he has appeared selectively at events while increasingly taking on a producer role, a pattern common among artists balancing family life and industry realities. Fans on social platforms welcomed Roki’s assertion that he has not retired, urging regular singles and a return to live shows. If the December single features a well-known Amapiano collaborator and is supported by playlist placement and video rotation, it could reignite Roki’s mass-market profile and support a mentorship imprint that signs younger artists to regional distribution channels.

Youth-led GenZ 212 protests in Morocco have escalated into violent clashes, arrests and deaths, as demonstrators demand better health care, education and jobs while authorities balance crackdowns with dialogue ( image source ) A wave of youth-led protests demanding better health care, education and jobs has erupted across Morocco, escalating into clashes with security forces, widespread arrests and significant property damage as authorities vow firm action and offer talks with organisers. Security crackdown and scale of unrest Protests that began in late September under the banner GenZ 212 spread quickly from Rabat and Casablanca to Agadir, Oujda and smaller towns. The Interior Ministry reported more than 400 arrests and dozens of injuries after nights of demonstrations turned violent in several cities, according to Al Jazeera and Sky News. In southern towns, demonstrators torched vehicles and looted shops, prompting mass police and gendarmerie deployments. Two people were killed in Lqliaa near Agadir after security forces said they used firearms in self-defence when attackers attempted to seize weapons from a gendarmerie post. The deaths, reported by Deutsche Welle and Bloomberg, marked the deadliest escalation so far and stoked fears of further violence. Movement demands and online mobilisation The largely leaderless movement is organised through Discord, TikTok and Instagram, with activists demanding urgent improvements to health services, education reform, job creation and an end to corruption. Demonstrators accuse the government of prioritising World Cup stadium projects over hospitals and schools, grievances amplified after reports of preventable deaths at an Agadir hospital. Verified footage shows masked youths throwing stones, using Molotov cocktails, and torching buildings in towns including Ait Amira and Inezgane. Rights groups say hundreds were detained, some released after brief custody, while NGOs warned of heavy-handed policing and arbitrary arrests. Government response Authorities are pursuing a two-track approach: crackdowns on violence while pledging dialogue with youth representatives. Officials said prosecutions will target those accused of arson and looting, but institutional talks will also be opened to address demands, according to official statements carried by national and international outlets. Political analysts say the unrest highlights governance gaps and rising youth discontent. “This movement is leaderless but potent; it leverages digital networks to mobilise rapidly and spotlight grievances that formal parties and unions have failed to address,” a North African politics specialist observed.

The Supreme Court has ended a nine-year land wrangle in Spitzkop, clearing the way for Vevhu Resources’ US$150 million development that will deliver 3,595 stands, schools, shops, and jobs to ease Harare’s housing crisis ( image source ) A nine-year land wrangle between the Greater Spitzkop Residents Association and property developer Vevhu Resources has finally been resolved, unlocking one of Harare’s largest private residential development projects, valued at an estimated US$150 million. The Supreme Court recently dismissed the residents’ final appeal, ending a protracted legal saga that saw 16 separate cases filed, all decided in favour of the developer. With the ruling now final, Vevhu Resources confirmed that civil works on Lot 14, Spitzkop, will commence next week. Vevhu Resources Chief Executive Officer Anthony Dube assured residents that the project will proceed without forced evictions. “We have had a challenge in Lot 14 where a lot of people came in and settled not by the Act of Vevhu Resources. Over the years, trying to develop the place has been very difficult,” Dube said. According to Dube, government regulations requiring 40 percent of land allocation for flats further delayed progress, as this clashed with existing informal settlement patterns. “It became a bottleneck… to move people to make way for the apartments which was gazetted by government,” he explained. As part of a compromise, Vevhu Resources will revert to the original urban layout plan, aligning formal development with how residents have already settled. “With the adoption of the old plan, it means we are now able to accommodate everyone who has been settled here,” Dube said. He noted that only a third of residents will be relocated, but all within Lot 14. The original plan provides for 3,595 stands, including residential plots, schools, shops, and recreational facilities. Analysts estimate that once fully developed, Spitzkop Lot 14 could provide housing for over 20,000 people and create 2,000 direct and indirect jobs during the construction phase. Urban planners argue the project is significant in addressing Harare’s housing deficit, which the Ministry of Local Government estimates at over 1.5 million units nationwide. The Spitzkop development alone could inject US$10 million annually into the local economy through property sales, rentals, and service levies. “This is a catalytic project for Harare’s south-western corridor,” said independent property analyst Tendai Mavengere. “It adds to the city’s housing stock, creates demand for building materials, and offers opportunities for small businesses. Importantly, the inclusion of schools and shops means this is not just housing—it’s community infrastructure.” Local councillor Tafadzwa Kambarami welcomed the breakthrough as a balance between legal order, resident welfare, and urban growth. “We are happy that the developer understood our concerns despite us having lost court cases. Everyone is happy because there will be no evictions. We want sanity. We want development,” he said. With the court ruling clearing the way, groundbreaking is set for October, with the first serviced stands expected on the market in mid-2026. For residents of Spitzkop—and Harare’s overburdened housing market—the end of a nine-year dispute marks the beginning of long-awaited progress.

Zimbabwe has reserved quarry and granite mining for indigenous investors under a new policy aimed at boosting community benefits and local ownership of natural resources ( image source ) The Zimbabwean government has added quarry and granite mining to the list of sectors exclusively reserved for indigenous investors, in a policy shift aimed at strengthening local participation and ensuring communities benefit from natural resource exploitation. Information Minister Jenfan Muswere announced the decision during a post-Cabinet media briefing in Harare on Tuesday, saying the move aligns with the country’s indigenisation framework. “Cabinet agreed on the need to streamline the operations in the reserved sectors, taking into consideration the balance between national interests and attracting investments into the country,” Muswere told reporters. The reserved sectors fall under the Indigenisation and Economic Empowerment Act, which sets aside certain industries for Zimbabwean citizens. Current restrictions already cover activities such as artisanal mining, tobacco grading, and packaging. The addition of quarry and granite mining underscores the government’s intent to localise ownership in key resource areas that have historically attracted foreign dominance. Granite is one of Zimbabwe’s most lucrative natural resources, particularly in Mashonaland East and Manicaland provinces, where extraction has been dominated by foreign-owned companies. According to the Centre for Research and Development, the sector generates millions of dollars annually, yet local communities often see little benefit. Analysts say the new policy could redirect value chains toward domestic players if effectively implemented. Muswere said mining companies are now expected to contribute more directly to rural development by supporting community economic empowerment trusts. “The trusts will be supported to set up industrial parks, working with potential partners in their respective districts,” he said. He added that this structure will guarantee revenue-sharing models so that communities derive tangible benefits from local mineral wealth. Industry observers note that while the policy strengthens indigenous empowerment, it raises questions about investor confidence. Zimbabwe has been working to attract foreign capital into its mining sector, which contributes more than 60 percent of export earnings. Analysts warn that balancing empowerment with investment inflows will be critical to sustaining growth. Civil society and local leaders have cautiously welcomed the development, stressing the importance of transparent governance and fair distribution of proceeds. “Communities must not only host mining operations but also share in the wealth generated,” one mining researcher said. The government maintains that the policy will accelerate rural industrialisation, create jobs, and support infrastructure development in mining districts, ensuring that quarry and granite resources deliver long-term economic benefits to Zimbabweans.

Israeli forces intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla en route to Gaza, detaining activists including Greta Thunberg and Mandla Mandela, sparking global protests and diplomatic fallout ( image source ) A multinational flotilla carrying activists and symbolic humanitarian supplies toward Gaza was intercepted and boarded by Israeli naval forces in international waters after organisers refused orders to divert, leaving dozens detained and prompting diplomatic protests across Europe and Asia. Israeli navy vessels moved to intercept the Global Sumud Flotilla late on 1 October, boarding multiple boats and transferring activists to Israeli ports after warning the convoy it was entering an “active war zone” and must change course, according to live statements from flotilla organisers and reporting by Al Ahram  and Channel NewsAsia . Organisers said at least six boats were boarded during the initial operation and released audio and video of confrontations on deck. The convoy comprised nearly 44 vessels and roughly 500 passengers, including high-profile activists, parliamentarians and celebrities such as Greta Thunberg, Mandla Mandela and other lawmakers, organisers said. Several nationals from Europe, Malaysia and Australia were among those detained, prompting calls for immediate consular action from affected governments. European and Asian leaders condemned the detentions and asked for the safe release of their citizens, while some governments urged activists to avoid confrontation and transfer aid through established channels. Flotilla coordinators broadcast 24/7 livestreams showing unlit military vessels approaching and reported communication jamming and camera disruption before boarding. They insisted the mission was non-violent and aimed to challenge Israel’s naval blockade and deliver medical and food supplies. The organisers cited international rulings and humanitarian law in arguing they had a right to attempt delivery and accused Israeli forces of intimidation and unlawful interception. Israeli authorities maintained the operation was necessary for security and stressed they had offered to offload aid via established channels. The Israeli Foreign Ministry warned the flotilla that entering restricted zones risked seizure and prosecution, and said some passengers were being processed for questioning on arrival. The government framed the action as enforcement of a naval blockade in a conflict zone rather than an attack on a civilian humanitarian mission. The interception triggered protests and solidarity rallies in several European cities and urgent diplomatic engagement, with some national leaders demanding the immediate release of their citizens and the protection of volunteers. Humanitarian groups warned the episode could further politicise aid flows to Gaza and complicate already strained relief corridors into the enclave, where UN agencies report severe shortages and high civilian need. Previous flotillas and lone vessels attempting to reach Gaza have been intercepted in the same high-risk maritime zones, with past operations sometimes turning violent and creating legal disputes over jurisdiction in international waters. Organisers say this convoy is the largest civilian maritime challenge to the blockade since 2023. Naval confrontations at sea raise risks of escalation, miscalculation and harm to unarmed volunteers and civilians. “We will stay on course toward Gaza,” the flotilla’s leadership declared while documenting blockade maneuvers and boardings. Israeli authorities will complete processing and interrogation of detainees while affected governments press for consular access. Flotilla organisers say remaining vessels will attempt to regroup and continue public livestreaming to expose actions at sea. International legal and humanitarian organisations are expected to review the interceptions and advise governments on consular, legal and aid-delivery responses.

A 13-year-old Nyabira pupil was fatally mauled by three dogs, prompting police to arrest the owner and renew calls for stricter dog-control enforcement and vaccination compliance ( image source ) A 13-year-old Grade Seven pupil, Caroline Chari, was fatally mauled by three dogs in Nyabira on 29 September while walking home from school with classmates. Police confirmed the tragedy on Wednesday and said the dogs’ owner, Gift Jambaya (50), has been arrested pending investigation. The Attack According to a police statement reported by ZBC News Online, the children scattered when the animals charged. The dogs pursued Caroline and inflicted fatal injuries before emergency services arrived. Authorities said the animals had last been vaccinated in 2024, and the owner failed to comply with the Department of Veterinary Services’ 2025 vaccination outreach programme. Police and Community Response Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrest, noting that investigations are underway into the attack and vaccination non-compliance. Local news sites, including Bulawayo24, reported widespread community shock and renewed calls for stricter enforcement of dog-control laws. Legal and Public Health Concerns Authorities cited persistent problems with non-compliance under the Harare Dog Licensing and Control By-Law of 1993, warning that negligent owners could face both criminal and civil liability. The ZRP has announced joint operations with the SPCA and local authorities to impound stray or rogue dogs and pursue enforcement against irresponsible owners. Animal-welfare experts and public-health officials said fatal dog attacks disproportionately affect children and stressed the need for vaccination compliance, leash laws and owner accountability. Broader Trend Fatal dog attacks have been reported across Zimbabwe this year, including in Mashonaland West, adding pressure on authorities to accelerate vaccination and impoundment campaigns. The ZRP has intensified operations, urging owners to leash their dogs and comply with veterinary drives to prevent further tragedies. Next Steps Police investigators will complete forensic and witness interviews to determine whether charges beyond negligence will be filed. Local authorities and the SPCA are expected to increase impoundment operations and public-awareness campaigns. Community leaders in Nyabira have demanded swift prosecution and stronger animal-control measures to protect residents.

Bulawayo man Tyron Siegfried Pigors jailed five years after police seized US$6,000 worth of crystal meth ( image source ) A Bulawayo man, Tyron Siegfried Pigors, was sentenced to eight years in prison—three years suspended—after police recovered about 1.2 to 1.6kg of crystal methamphetamine valued at roughly US$6,000 from his Matsheumhlope home. Regional Magistrate Sibonginkosi Mkandla imposed an effective five-year custodial term after prosecutors detailed how detectives, following months of surveillance, raided Pigors’ home in March. Officers discovered the drugs concealed in a biscuit tin, Puma shoe box, dictionary-shaped safe and metal trunk, alongside digital scales allegedly used for packaging. Police confirmed the seized substance tested positive for methamphetamine, with the operation carried out under the CID Drugs and Narcotics Unit as part of a wider probe into Bulawayo’s meth supply chain. Defence Pushes for Disclosure During trial, defence lawyers pressed for full disclosure of forensic and investigative reports, including chain-of-custody documents, a cyber lab report for a seized phone, and preliminary test results. They argued incomplete disclosure would prejudice the accused’s right to a fair trial. Court filings show disclosure challenges were raised throughout pre-trial proceedings. Ongoing Investigations National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed Pigors had been under surveillance since February and said investigations would now focus on his supply network and possible accomplices. Court sources quoted by local media said Pigors displayed “little remorse” during proceedings, with the sentence intended as a deterrent against meth trafficking in urban communities. Rising Meth Crisis Crystal methamphetamine—known locally as mutoriro —has become a growing public-health and law-enforcement concern in Zimbabwe’s cities, fuelling youth addiction and straining social services. Prosecutors and civic groups cite rising seizures as evidence that tougher enforcement and rehabilitation measures are urgently needed. The Pigors case comes as Bulawayo courts handle a spike in high-profile drug prosecutions, reflecting heightened policing and public concern. Prosecutors indicated further arrests may follow as investigators pursue leads from seized forensic and digital evidence. Observers say the outcome could reveal whether Zimbabwe’s meth trade is fed by cross-border supply chains or entrenched local distribution networks.

China’s top universities, led by Tsinghua and Peking, climb global rankings as Beijing’s heavy investment in research, talent and internationalisation reshapes higher education ( image source ) China’s leading universities secured record placements in the latest global rankings, with Tsinghua University and Peking University closing in on traditional Western leaders as sustained state investment in research and internationalisation reshapes the higher-education landscape. According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, both Tsinghua and Peking emerged among Asia’s highest-ranked institutions this year, driven by advances in research impact, industry income and publication output. Analysts say the results reflect Beijing’s decades-long strategy of prioritising elite universities as part of national science-driven growth. State-Driven Growth The rise of Chinese universities is closely linked to government programmes such as the Double First-Class initiative, alongside earlier Project 985 and Project 211, which channeled concentrated funding, faculty recruitment and infrastructure upgrades into a select group of institutions. The strategy has boosted citations, international collaboration and postgraduate enrolments — metrics heavily weighted in global ranking systems. “Tsinghua’s surge is linked to high-impact publications and industry partnerships translating research into commercial innovation, while Peking’s broad profile across sciences and humanities sustains its strong reputation scores,” an international higher-education analyst mentioned. Ranking Methodologies Different global league tables emphasise distinct factors: Times Higher Education: research influence, international outlook. QS: academic and employer reputation. Others: faculty resources, citation counts, industry income. These methodologies often favour large, research-intensive institutions with strong state support — areas where China has concentrated resources through university mergers, targeted recruitment and internationalisation. Implications for Students and Research China’s improved rankings are expected to attract more international students, especially to campuses in Beijing, Shanghai and Hangzhou, where English-taught programmes and scholarships are expanding. Global research partners may deepen collaboration in AI, quantum computing, semiconductors and clean energy, fields where China is rapidly building capacity. Employers are also likely to monitor graduate outcomes more closely as universities expand industry linkages and entrepreneurship pathways. Critical Perspectives While rankings highlight research strength and global visibility, critics caution they may underplay teaching quality, equity and academic freedom. Concerns remain about graduate employment alignment and whether the funding model is sustainable should political or economic priorities shift. Nonetheless, with state support continuing, analysts say China’s upward trajectory in world rankings is set to continue, reshaping the global higher-education order and narrowing the gap with US and UK institutions.

HARARE — The nomination of controversial Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA) executive Polisile Ncube-Chimhini  among the “50 Most Inspirational Women in Zimbabwe 2025”  awards has triggered a storm in music circles, with artists petitioning event sponsors and organisers to immediately withdraw her candidacy. Ncube, who was convicted of fraud by the Harare Magistrates’ Court in June 2025, has long faced allegations of corruption, intimidation of artists, and abuse of office at ZIMURA. Despite a High Court ruling that no such position as “Executive Director” exists within the association’s constitution, she continues to claim the title. The development has shocked the creative industry, where musicians accuse Ncube of exploiting them while drawing a monthly salary above US$2,000, even as many artists reportedly receive annual royalties of less than US$30. This week, whistleblowers and artist advocates wrote a strongly worded letter to Nyaradzo Group , the awards sponsor, and copied it to the Women Corporate Directors Network Zimbabwe , the event organisers under the Institute of Corporate Directors Zimbabwe. The full letter reads: Letter to Nyaradzo Group and WCDN Zimbabwe To: Nyaradzo Group CC: Women Corporate Directors Network Zimbabwe Subject: Demand for Immediate Withdrawal of Polisile Ncube-Chimhini’s Nomination Amidst Fraud Conviction and Abuse of Zimbabwean Artists Dear Nyaradzo Group, We write to express deep outrage and utmost disappointment at the nomination of Ms. Polisile Ncube for the “50 Most Inspirational Women in Zimbabwe 2025” awards. This honor bestowed upon a convicted fraudster and controversial figurehead of the Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA) is a slap in the face to Zimbabwean musicians and all advocates for justice in our creative industry. Ms. Ncube, who continues to illegitimately claim the title of Executive Director of ZIMURA despite a High Court ruling confirming no such position exists under the association’s constitution. She was found guilty of fraud in June 2025 by the Harare Magistrates’ Court. This conviction resulted from her submission of forged company registration documents to the High Court in an attempt to deceive the courts and entrench her fraudulent control. While Zimbabwe’s musicians struggle to earn a bare minimum, often receiving annual royalties as low as USD 30, Polisile Ncube enjoys a monthly salary exceeding USD 2,000 — an obscene disparity that lays bare the exploitation and mismanagement rampant at ZIMURA. How can a person who has betrayed the trust of the very artists she is supposed to serve be celebrated as inspirational? Further compounding the betrayal, under Ms. Ncube’s brief and troubled stewardship, ZIMURA attempted to impose a predatory licensing fee of USD 150 per gig on cover bands—a policy that blatantly disregarded musician welfare and was strongly opposed by the Zimbabwe Musicians Union (ZIMU) and the wider creative community until suspended by government authorities. The ZIMU has since called for her and the board’s resignation, condemning the ongoing corruption and intimidation of members who dare speak out against these abuses. Ms. Ncube’s leadership has been marked by systematic intimidation and mafia-style tactics aimed at silencing critics and whistleblowers. Artists and stakeholders who dare raise concerns or expose corruption face threats, harassment, and attempts at blacklisting or expulsion from ZIMURA. We have personally been subject to such attacks and lawfare from Ms Ncube and ZIMURA. Many musicians fear victimization to the extent that they are reluctant to put their grievances in writing, knowing the perilous consequences of speaking out against her regime. This climate of fear and suppression undermines transparency and perpetuates the culture of impunity in ZIMURA’s governance. The issues we raise are on public record. There are ongoing investigations regarding her corruption and illegalities being undertaken by ZRP. There are pending court cases. Various media reports detailing her abuses have been written. As such, we believe an organisation of your stature should have been able to unmask the truth of who she really is by doing due diligence. The opportunity to do so is still open. This nomination sends a dangerous message: that criminality, deception, and injustice will be rewarded while the hardworking voices of Zimbabwe’s musicians continue to be trampled upon and denied their rightful earnings. It undermines the very notions of corporate governance, leadership, integrity, and true inspiration. We, therefore, call upon Nyaradzo Group and the Women Corporate Directors Network Zimbabwe to immediately withdraw the nomination of Ms. Polisile Ncube. Let Zimbabwe see that awards celebrate genuine achievement and ethical leadership—not fraud and exploitation. Our artists deserve leaders who uplift, not those who betray and enrich themselves at their expense. Yours in the fight for justice Phillip Chipfumbu Fred Finto Whistleblowers and Advocates for Zimbabwe Musicians’ Rights The petitioners have also cited multiple reports and past rulings documenting Ncube’s alleged misconduct. Whether the organisers will act on the demand remains to be seen, but the controversy has already cast a shadow over the awards ceremony and reignited calls for reform in ZIMURA’s governance.

Mauritius has topped Africa’s 2025 economic freedom rankings, while Zimbabwe lags near the bottom ( image source ) Mauritius has topped Africa’s 2025 economic freedom rankings while Zimbabwe remains near the bottom, a sharp contrast underscoring diverging policy choices on trade openness, property rights, and regulatory quality. The latest rankings, highlighted in regional analyses, show Mauritius continuing to perform strongly in open markets and sound business regulation. Zimbabwe, by comparison, scored poorly on governance, property rights, and rule-of-law indicators that undermine investor confidence and restrict private-sector growth. The policy gap is stark. Mauritius retained high marks for reforms that simplify business processes and strengthen contract enforcement, while Zimbabwe’s low scores reflect persistent weaknesses in transparency, land tenure, and judicial reliability. These shortcomings raise transaction costs for firms and deter foreign direct investment. “Mauritius demonstrates how predictable rules attract knowledge-intensive capital; Zimbabwe needs credible, verifiable reforms to reverse capital flight,” said a Harare-based economist. Economic freedom indices aggregate measures including rule of law, government size, regulatory efficiency, and open markets. High-scoring countries offer stable property rights and transparent institutions, while low scorers face policy unpredictability and weak enforcement, raising borrowing costs and deterring private capital. For Zimbabwe, the impact is visible: restricted credit access for SMEs, weak job creation, and reliance on informal trade and remittances. National commentators stress that restoring investor confidence requires demonstrable institutional reforms and stronger anti-corruption enforcement, not just policy statements. Corporate leaders in Harare note that inconsistent contract enforcement and procurement disputes extend project timelines and increase costs. Regional traders highlight that markets such as Mauritius and South Africa offer more predictable customs and market access, creating advantages that Zimbabwean firms struggle to match. Over the past decade, many African economies have improved their business climates through streamlined tax codes, digital licensing systems, and investor protections. Mauritius stands out as a leader, while Zimbabwe’s repeated low rankings highlight entrenched governance deficits. Policy reforms to watch in Zimbabwe include measures to secure land tenure, ensure transparent procurement, strengthen judicial independence, and ease finance access for small businesses. International observers say future investor confidence will hinge on whether Harare enacts and enforces measurable, time-bound reforms.