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The ZIFA Northern Region Division One League has signed a landmark US$310,000 sponsorship deal with MCM Estates ( image source ) HARARE — The ZIFA Northern Region Division One League has secured a significant financial boost after signing a year-long sponsorship agreement worth US$310,000 with property developers MCM Estates, a deal expected to strengthen the league’s capacity to prepare clubs for Premier Soccer League (PSL) football. Unveiled on Saturday evening, the partnership positions the Northern Region as one of the most commercially supported lower leagues in Zimbabwe, reinforcing its role as a key development pathway to the top flight. In addition to the headline sponsorship figure, the package includes a US$2,000 goodwill signing gesture and monthly performance-based incentives of US$350 for the coach, top goal scorer, goalkeeper and player of the month. In a move aimed at enhancing player welfare and long-term motivation, five outstanding players will each receive a holiday home stand valued at US$24,000 at the end of the season, a benefit rarely seen in Zimbabwean lower-league football. MCM Estates chief executive officer Anthony McMullen said the company was inspired by the growth potential of the league and the strong community connection around clubs such as Agama FC of Mashonaland Central. “We are in this for the long haul. We understand what football means to the community, so we decided to help make the journey smoother for the clubs,” McMullen said. ZIFA Northern Region chairperson Sweeny Mushonga described the sponsorship as a turning point for the league. “We are grateful for this gesture. It will make our lives easier and we want to transform football and be a league that everyone envies. Our mandate is to prepare teams for the top flight, and this support helps us deliver on that,” he said. The unveiling ceremony also celebrated outstanding performers from the previous season. Simon Grey Kufandada, formerly of Herentals and Bulawayo City, was named Best Player of the Year and claimed the Golden Boot after scoring 17 goals. Former Warriors captain and coach Sunday Chidzambwa, who attended as Guest of Honour, urged players to prioritise discipline alongside talent. “Discipline is everything in football. I have seen many gifted players fail because of indiscipline. Hardworking and disciplined players go further than those who rely on talent alone,” he said. Agama FC emerged as the standout club on the night, with coach Paul Chimalizeni named Coach of the Year and three of the club’s players selected in the Best Eleven. The event was also attended by Mt Darwin South Member of Parliament Kudakwashe Mupamhanga, who congratulated the club from his constituency. Analysts say the deal sets a new benchmark for lower-division football in Zimbabwe, with incentives and benefits that in some respects rival or surpass those in the PSL. For the ZIFA Northern Region, the sponsorship signals a new phase of professionalism, investment and opportunity that could reshape the pathway to elite football.

ZIMRA has revised the validity of Tax Clearance Certificates ( image source ) HARARE — The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has revised the validity periods for Tax Clearance Certificates (ITF263), easing compliance requirements after sustained concerns from industry over the administrative burden of frequent renewals. Under the new framework, Tax Clearance Certificates issued to large taxpayers will now be valid for six months. Certificates for medium and small taxpayers including companies participating in public and private tenders will remain valid for three months. The adjustment follows representations by the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI), which raised objections to Public Notice 69 of 2025. The notice had proposed monthly renewal of tax clearance certificates, a move business leaders warned would be costly, time-consuming and disruptive to operations. ZIMRA said it is now considering a phased transitional framework to stagger the implementation of ITF263 requirements. The authority stressed that its policy on nil returns remains unchanged, noting that taxpayers submitting nil returns are deemed not to be trading and must obtain specific authorisation if they require a tax clearance certificate. “The concerns raised by industry regarding administrative burden, system readiness and proportionality are duly noted, and ZIMRA remains committed to continued stakeholder engagement on these matters,” the authority said in a statement. Further consultations are expected during forthcoming quarterly stakeholder meetings, where implementation progress will be reviewed and refinements considered. Analysts say the move reflects an attempt by the tax authority to strike a balance between strengthening compliance and maintaining a conducive operating environment for business. For companies, the revised validity periods offer short-term relief as systems and processes are stabilised. However, ZIMRA has urged businesses to keep all statutory returns and tax obligations up to date, warning that non-compliance could still result in loss of clearance status and exclusion from tender opportunities.

Greetings brethren. When you wake up alive and healthy , it’s always good to whisper , Thank You Lord. I believe in the healing power of nature not by chance but by design. Nature is pure so pursue it likewise. God blessed humanity with flora and fauna to make us prosper. Today l want to talk about the immense benefits derived from water. A sixth century B.C. philosopher named Thales hypothesized that water is the primary substance of all being. Thales, considered the first Western philosopher, proposed that water is the fundamental principle (arche) of everything, the source from which all things originate, change, and return, a concept rooted in his observations of water's ubiquity, transformative power (liquid, solid, gas), and role in life and the Earth's support. He saw water not just as a substance but as a unified, underlying reality, shifting explanations from mythology to natural philosophy by seeking a single, material explanation for the cosmos.  He proclaimed that water was the most unusual substance if, for no other reason, it is the only one to exist on Earth in three different forms (i.e., solid, liquid and gaseous) simultaneously. According to Thales, water was the original substance of the universe out of which everything is created and to which everything returns. Water is vital for life and makes up 50% (females) to 60% (males) of an adult’s body weight. Water is the main constituent of our cells, tissues, and organs. It supports numerous biological processes, ensuring homeostatic functioning . Minerals in water include sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphate. Sufficient, safe, acceptable, physically accessible, and affordable water for personal and domestic use is recognized by the United Nations as a fundamental human right. How does Water help our Bodies? 1. Water helps create saliva Picture this festive season when we get to taste mouth-watering dishes with no limits! Dude you need to be hydrated for those taste buds to water your mouth ! Water is a main component of saliva. Saliva also includes small amounts of electrolytes, mucus, and enzymes. It’s essential for breaking down solid food and keeping your mouth healthy. 2. Water regulates body temperature Hydration is paramount to maintaining our body temperature . We lose water during physical activity and in hot environments. Sweat keeps our bodies cools If you’re sweat more than usual, drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. 3. It protects your tissues, spinal cord, Old or young, we all need healthy joints to dance and play. I often see old folk reducing water intake for lesser trips to that drop off zone! Our joints, spinal cord, and tissues require consistent lubrication which is derived from water. In turn we are able to enjoy physical activity and lessen discomfort caused by conditions like anthritis etc. For maximum benefits, sip and don’t gulp your water! 4. Water is a waste broom Independent of a housemaid, water is a cleaning broom for our system! 😜 Our bodies use water to sweat, urinate, and move the bowels. Sweat regulates body temperature during exercises or in warm temperatures. We need water to replenish the lost fluid from sweat. We also need enough water in the system for healthy stool, constipation free. The kidneys are also important for filtering out waste through urination. Adequate water intake helps your kidneys work more efficiently and helps to prevent kidney stones. 5. Water for maximize physical agility Drinking plenty of water during physical activity is essential. The exercise enthusiasts perspire even more! Hydration enhances our strength, power, and endurance. One may be more susceptible to the effects of dehydration when participating in endurance training or high-intensity sports. Negative effects of exercise in the heat without adequate hydration may include serious medical conditions, like decreased blood pressure and hyperthermia .Extreme dehydration may cause seizures and even death. 6. It aids in digestion If you are too lazy to drink water , you are better off fasting than punishing your body ! Water helps break down food so our body can use the nutrients. Water is part of the stomach acid that helps digestion. 8. Water for nutrient absorption In addition to helping with food breakdown, water also helps dissolve vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients from your food. It then delivers these vitamin components to the rest of your body for use. 9. Water for slimming Studies have linked body fat and weight loss with drinking water. Drinking more water while dieting and exercising may just help you lose extra pounds. 10. It improves blood oxygen circulation Water carries helpful nutrients and oxygen to our entire body. Hence reaching the daily water intake will improve circulation , leaving a positive impact in our overall health. 10. Water can fight off illness Drinking enough water boosts our immune system. Water prevents many ailments including • constipation • kidney stones • exercise-induced asthma • Urinary tract infections • Hypertension The power of water to absorb important vitamins, minerals, and nutrients from food keeps our health in check. 11. Water can boost energy Drinking water activates our metabolism. A boost in metabolism has been associated with a positive impact on energy level. One study found that drinking 500 milliliters of water boosted the metabolic rate by 30 % in both men and women. These effects appeared to last over an hour. 12. . It aids in cognitive function Some situations in life require us to think clearly. Water does the trick ! Proper hydration is key to staying in tip-top cognitive shape. Some research source indicates limited water intake can negatively impact focus, alertness, and short-term memory. 13. It helps improve mood Good news for the moody brigade! Dehydration does affect your mood. It may result in fatigue and confusion as well as anxiety. Drink your water and be happy 😃. 14. It helps keep skin bright Glowing skin is beautiful whether it’s yours or some else’s. Adequate water intake will help keep your skin hydrated and may promote collagen production. However, water intake alone isn’t enough to reduce the effects of aging. This process is also connected to your genes and overall sun protection. 15. It prevents overall dehydration Dehydration is the result of your body not having enough water. And because water is imperative to so many bodily functions, dehydration can be very dangerous. Severe dehydration can result in a number of severe complications, including: • swelling in your brain • kidney failure • seizures • Stroke How Often Should we drink water ? You should drink water consistently throughout the day, with key times being first thing in the morning to rehydrate, 30 minutes before meals to aid digestion and fullness, throughout and after exercise to replace fluids, and whenever you feel thirsty; it's best to avoid excessive water right before bed to prevent sleep disruption. Listen to your body, but aim for regular sips to maintain hydration.  Key times to drink water:  • Morning: A glass upon waking rehydrates after sleep and kickstarts metabolism. • Before Meals: Drink about 30 minutes before eating to help digestion and prevent overeating. • During Meals: Sips can help break down food and absorb nutrients. • Exercise: Before, during, and after physical activity to replenish lost fluids. • When Tired/Stressed: Dehydration causes fatigue, so water can help. • Before Bed: A small amount can prevent overnight dehydration, but don't drink too much to avoid waking up to use the bathroom.  Tips for staying hydrated:  • Listen to Thirst: Thirst is a primary signal, but don't wait until you're parched. • Space it Out: Spread your intake throughout the day rather than chugging large amounts at once. • Consider Temperature: Drinking ice 🧊 cold water is way out of style dudes. It harms your brain. The best option is lukewarm water for better absorption. As l conclude, l encourage us to "Be Like Water":  • In Dwelling: Stay close to the ground; be grounded. • In Action: Be gentle, kind, and watch the timing; work with the flow. • In Dealing with Others: Be humble, honest, and gentle. • In Governance: Don't control; let things be. • In Life: Let go of rigid expectations, stop fighting the current, and go with the flow, finding strength in softness Dr Precious Sibiya , is a certified Wellness Practitioner. She is a stroke survivor who believes in natural lifestyle for maximum health , happiness and well-being. Contact her for more Wellness insights . Email : precioussibiya2014@gmail.com/0719225489

ZRP has launched a Special Tactics Troop to tackle armed robbery, kidnapping and other violent crimes, strengthening rapid-response policing amid rising security concerns ( image source ) HARARE — In a high-profile response to rising violent crime, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched a dedicated Special Tactics Troop, a rapid-response unit modelled on elite international forces. The troop’s pass-out parade was officiated by Commissioner-General Stephen Mutamba on December 18, 2025, marking a significant escalation in policing capacity against high-risk offences. National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the unit completed intensive specialised training and will be deployed to handle complex and dangerous incidents, including armed robbery, kidnapping, murder and smuggling. “The team will assist in responding to scenes of serious crime such as armed robbery, murder, smuggling and kidnapping,” Comm Nyathi said. He added that the troop’s structure and operational doctrine draw inspiration from elite units such as South Africa’s Special Task Force, Kenya’s Recce Company and the United Kingdom’s Specialist Firearms Command. The formation of the Special Tactics Troop follows a year punctuated by violent crimes that heightened public concern, including the fatal shooting of businessman Joseph Mutangadura, deadly shootouts involving police officers, and the mass killing of a family in Guruve. Police statistics indicate that between January and August 2025, authorities recorded 531 arrests linked to armed robbery, resulting in 206 convictions. Some investigations, officials said, extended beyond Zimbabwe’s borders, underscoring the growing threat of organised and cross-border criminal syndicates. Operational enhancements announced alongside the troop include the deployment of three additional Ford Everest vehicles to the National Highway Patrol Unit, expanding the fleet to nine. The reinforcement is aimed at strengthening highway security during the festive season, a period typically associated with increased travel and opportunistic crime. The ZRP has also introduced Quick Response (QR) codes on patrol vehicles, allowing motorists to scan and connect instantly with the police hotline to report emergencies, reckless driving or suspicious activity. Security analysts welcomed the introduction of a specialised rapid-response capability but cautioned that elite units must be integrated into a broader, intelligence-led policing framework. They stressed the importance of coordination with investigative units, prosecutors and community policing structures to achieve lasting reductions in violent crime. Civil-liberties groups have also called for transparency and oversight to ensure operations adhere to human-rights standards and due process. The ZRP has said the troop will operate under strict rules of engagement and accountability mechanisms. As Zimbabwe enters a period of heightened movement and public gatherings, authorities say the Special Tactics Troop represents a decisive step to restore public confidence and improve response times to serious crime. The longer-term impact, analysts note, will depend on sustained intelligence sharing, judicial follow-through and community trust.

Zimbabwe’s Meteorological Services Department has issued a Level 2 weather warning for heavy rain, lightning and strong winds expected nationwide between December 21 and 24, 2025 ( image source ) HARARE — The Meteorological Services Department (MSD), working with the Department of Civil Protection, has issued a Level 2 weather warning for heavy rain, lightning and strong winds expected across large parts of Zimbabwe from Sunday, December 21, to Wednesday, December 24, 2025. Authorities say the likelihood of severe weather is high, although the anticipated impacts are classified as minor overall. The alert, issued at 4pm on Friday, applies nationwide, with heightened concern for flood-prone districts in Masvingo, Manicaland, Harare Metropolitan, Mashonaland East and Mashonaland Central. Forecasts indicate that some areas could receive more than 50 millimetres of rainfall within a 24-hour period, accompanied by hail, frequent lightning and strong wind gusts. Meteorologists attribute the conditions to the interaction of warm, moist air with low-pressure systems over western and northern parts of the country. Authorities have urged households, institutions and businesses to take precautionary measures to minimise risk. Recommended actions include securing rooftops, tying down loose objects, safeguarding livestock and trimming overhanging tree branches that could fall during strong winds. Communities in low-lying and riverine areas were advised to prepare for possible localised flooding and to move valuables and livestock to higher ground where possible. Public safety guidance also warned against operating heavy machinery or using open vehicles such as tractors during storms, and strongly discouraged attempts to cross flooded areas. Residents were reminded to avoid using taps, showers or other plumbing during lightning storms to reduce the risk of electrical injury. The Department of Civil Protection said it will continue to monitor conditions and issue updates as necessary. Local authorities were instructed to ensure drainage systems are clear, assess the safety of bridges and culverts, and coordinate with community leaders on evacuation plans if required. Emergency response teams and health facilities were advised to remain on heightened alert. Motorists were urged to exercise caution on wet roads, reduce speeds and avoid driving through standing water. Schools and businesses were encouraged to review contingency plans and communicate safety instructions to staff, pupils and parents. While the warning classifies expected impacts as minor, officials cautioned that localised hazards such as flash floods, fallen trees and lightning strikes can still cause significant disruption. They stressed that preparedness at household and community levels remains critical.

ZANU-PF leaders criticised the opposition’s development record at a Nkulumane rally ahead of the by-election ( image source ) BULAWAYO — Aspiring ZANU-PF Central Committee member Paul Tungwarara on Wednesday delivered a pointed critique of opposition legislators, accusing those who have represented Nkulumane in Parliament of failing to deliver meaningful development despite decades of control in urban constituencies. His remarks came at a campaign rally in Nkulumane as ZANU-PF intensified its push ahead of Saturday’s by-election. Addressing party supporters and local residents, Tungwarara argued that more than 20 years of opposition representation in Bulawayo and other cities had yielded little improvement in infrastructure or basic services. He cited persistent challenges such as deteriorating roads, unreliable sanitation and poor waste management as evidence of what he described as a poor development record. Tungwarara urged voters to give ZANU-PF an opportunity to address urban challenges, saying the party—long associated with rural development—was now ready to prioritise city-specific needs. The message was reinforced by ZANU-PF National Political Commissar Munyaradzi Machacha, who highlighted service delivery shortfalls that he attributed to opposition leadership. Machacha pointed to unresolved sewer reticulation problems and erratic refuse collection as examples of failures affecting residents’ quality of life. He told the gathering that a ZANU-PF mandate would allow the party to mobilise resources and implement practical interventions aimed at restoring essential services. Residents attending the rally expressed a mix of frustration and cautious optimism. Some said they were weary of repeated promises and wanted immediate, visible improvements in sanitation, road maintenance and waste removal. Others indicated openness to political change, provided it translated into sustained service delivery rather than short-term projects aligned with election cycles. Opposition figures have previously defended their performance by citing limited fiscal space, centralised budgetary controls and administrative bottlenecks that restrict constituency-level interventions. They argue that many urban service challenges require coordinated action across municipal, provincial and national institutions, and that political control alone does not guarantee rapid solutions. Analysts say the Nkulumane by-election will be closely watched as a test of urban voter sentiment and a gauge of whether service delivery concerns outweigh party loyalty. In urban constituencies, by-elections often turn on tangible issues such as water supply, sanitation, refuse removal and road repairs, with candidates who present credible, actionable plans more likely to resonate with voters.

ZRP intercepts a truck registered to Chita One Investments carrying dagga and abused cough syrups along the Harare–Beitbridge Road ( image source ) HARARE — The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) on Thursday released images of a large consignment of illicit substances intercepted along the Harare–Beitbridge Road, saying the haul was being transported in a truck registered to Chita One Investments. The seizure, which included dagga and thousands of bottles of cough syrup, has renewed calls for tougher action against trafficking networks and tighter controls on pharmaceutical distribution. In a post on X, the ZRP said officers recovered 221 kilogrammes of dagga packed into 14 bales, alongside cough syrups commonly abused as intoxicants. The consignment comprised 1,550 bottles (100 ml) of Broncleer, 810 bottles (100 ml) of Astra Pain, and 960 bottles (100 ml) of Benylin. Photographs released by police showed the bales and boxed syrups displayed in front of the intercepted vehicle, underscoring the scale of the operation. Police said the interception forms part of intensified operations aimed at disrupting supply chains that fuel drug and substance abuse in both urban and rural communities. Investigations are ongoing to establish the origin of the consignment, its intended distribution network, and any corporate or individual liability linked to the vehicle and its registered owner. Authorities have not yet disclosed whether arrests have been made. Health advocates and community leaders welcomed the seizure but urged swift and transparent prosecutions to ensure deterrence. Public-health experts warned that the growing abuse of cough syrups poses a significant risk to young people, who are often targeted by informal distribution networks. The combination of plant-based drugs and diverted pharmaceuticals highlights a dual challenge: illicit drug trafficking and weaknesses in the regulation and monitoring of legitimate medicines. Analysts noted that the use of commercial haulage to move contraband complicates enforcement. Exploiting legitimate transport channels, they argue, calls for tighter vetting of freight operators, improved cargo inspections, and stronger coordination at checkpoints and border posts. The question of corporate liability — whether the registered owner was complicit or the vehicle was misused — is expected to be central to any legal proceedings. While the seizure offers reassurance to communities grappling with addiction, experts stress that enforcement alone will not resolve the crisis. Sustained prevention efforts, including treatment services, youth outreach and public education on the dangers of cough-syrup abuse, are needed alongside policing to curb the flow of drugs and reduce harm.

Women in Harare have welcomed the city council’s crackdown on street children in the CBD, citing reduced harassment and theft ( image source ) HARARE — Harare City Council’s operation to remove children living on the streets from the central business district (CBD) has been welcomed by many women, who say they have long borne the brunt of harassment, aggressive begging and petty crime. The city confirmed the operation on Tuesday, saying municipal police officers led by Chief Superintendent Mhizha rounded up street children who had become increasingly visible and disruptive in the CBD. Harare City Council spokesperson Stanley Gama said the operation was prompted by rising complaints from residents and businesses. “Municipal police officers led by Chief Superintendent Mhizha rounded up street kids in the Central Business District,” Gama said. “The street kids are becoming a menace in the city, harassing residents and stealing from them. They have also become notorious for committing horrendous crimes.” Gama said those apprehended were handed over to the police, although he did not disclose the number involved or outline the next steps in terms of rehabilitation or social welfare interventions. Women in particular welcomed the crackdown, saying street children—whose ages they estimate range from as young as five to about 20—have created an atmosphere of fear in parts of the CBD. Victims reported incidents of cellphone snatching, theft of handbags and food, and aggressive targeting of women’s accessories such as wigs and jewellery. Vimbai Gwesu (17), from Warren Park, said she has repeatedly fallen victim to theft. “I lost almost three frontal wigs to these street kids; they just snatch and flee,” she said. “The combined value was about US$150, considering each wig costs around US$50.” Another victim, Tanaka, who declined to give her surname, said her headphones were stolen at the corner of Robert Mugabe Road and Chinhoyi Street. “The guy came from behind and just grabbed them. I screamed, but nobody came to help,” she said, adding that the council’s intervention was long overdue. Despite the support, residents cautioned that a one-off operation would not be sufficient to address what they described as a deeply entrenched problem. Chiyedza Zvikaramba called for sustained enforcement. “The blitz on street kids should be done regularly. They disappear for a few days, but they always come back. These operations should be done almost every week,” she said. Another resident, who requested anonymity, noted that many incidents occur close to Town House. “It’s sad that these street kids roam around the Town House boundary, where city officials can actually see them from their offices. But this is a good start,” the resident said. National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said he was yet to receive a formal report on the operation. Africa Unity Square, Harare Gardens and areas surrounding Town House remain among the hotspots most frequently cited by residents as requiring sustained intervention.

Zimbabwean companies must re-register on the electronic companies registry by April 20, 2026 under SI 108 of 2025 ( image source ) HARARE — Government has set a firm deadline of Friday, April 20, 2026, for all companies and private business corporations to re-register on Zimbabwe’s electronic companies registry, following the gazetting of Statutory Instrument (SI) 108 of 2025 on September 26. Entities that fail to comply risk automatic deregistration and far-reaching legal consequences. The electronic registry is provided for under Chapter V of the Companies and Other Business Entities Act (Chapter 24:31), enacted in 2019. Sections 279 to 291 allow for electronic registration, while section 303(9) requires existing entities to re-register within twelve months of the effective date by submitting prescribed forms, fees and documentation, while retaining their current names. Any change of name is only permitted after re-registration, in line with section 26. Although the Act became effective on February 13, 2020, the current re-registration exercise is intended to clean and modernise the national companies register. Authorities say the process will remove defunct or inactive entities and ensure that only compliant, operational businesses remain on record. Under section 10 of the Act, a company may be deemed defunct if it has failed to submit statutory returns, appears inactive, or is no longer carrying on business. Government has warned that non-compliance will trigger immediate consequences. Companies that have not filed annual returns, updated director or shareholder information, or maintained statutory records may be struck off the register. Deregistration strips a company of its legal personality, meaning it can no longer trade, enter contracts or hold property in its corporate name. Directors and officers may face personal liability for obligations incurred, while continued trading after deregistration could expose them to civil or criminal sanctions. Officials note that once outstanding statutory returns are brought up to date, the re-registration process itself can take as little as seven days. However, entities that miss the April deadline will be deregistered automatically, without further notice, and their names will become available to new applicants. Business associations and corporate law practitioners are urging firms to treat the deadline as urgent. Recommended steps include confirming that annual returns and tax filings are current, verifying director and shareholder registers, preparing certified identification and proof of address for officers, and settling any outstanding statutory fees. Dormant entities are being advised to either regularise and re-activate their status or pursue voluntary winding-up to avoid the reputational and legal risks of forced deregistration. For the private sector, the exercise is both a compliance obligation and a reform opportunity. A clean, accurate electronic register is expected to improve transparency, support investment and reduce administrative friction. But the window for action is narrowing, and companies that delay risk being locked out of the formal economy after April 20, 2026.

A massive snakehead catch at Lilstock Dam draws crowds to Chinehasha Business Centre, boosting rural trade and highlighting the cultural and economic value of inland fisheries ( image source ) CHINEHASHA — A remarkable catch at Lilstock Dam transformed an otherwise quiet market day into a hive of excitement and trade after local angler Mr Simango landed a massive snakehead (hunga) measuring close to 1.5 metres. The rare specimen quickly became the centre of attention at Chinehasha Business Centre, drawing villagers, traders and curious onlookers. The snakehead’s elongated body, pronounced head and sharp teeth initially caused alarm, with some mistaking it for a serpent. Closer inspection revealed a prized freshwater fish highly valued for both its fighting spirit and culinary appeal. “From a distance it looks like a serpent, but up close it’s a prized catch,” said one villager, reflecting the mix of awe and appetite that surrounded the haul. Seasoned fishermen say landing a snakehead requires patience and skill. The predatory species is known to strike heavy, meaty baits, including pieces of beef, chicken, smaller fish or even small birds. For Mr Simango, the catch was not only a personal triumph but also a commercial opportunity, as he paraded the fish to attract bidders before arranging its sale and distribution. The economic impact of such a catch can be significant in rural communities. Large snakehead command premium prices at local markets, providing a rare boost to household incomes and stimulating trade as buyers and vendors converge. Beyond Zimbabwe, the fish is also valued in international markets, including parts of New Zealand, where it features in grills and specialty markets, highlighting its broader commercial appeal. Culturally, the hunga holds a special place in Chiweshe and surrounding districts. Often reserved for elders or served at important gatherings, it is regarded as a delicacy prized for its firm, fatty flesh. Common preparations include grilling with local spices, smoking for preservation, or slow stewing with vegetables and sadza. The episode has also revived discussion on the potential of inland fisheries as sources of livelihood and nutrition. Observers note that with proper management, sustainable fishing practices and small-scale aquaculture could expand economic opportunities in rural areas. They caution, however, that conservation measures are essential to prevent overfishing and protect aquatic ecosystems. For now, Mr Simango’s catch remains the talk of Chinehasha, drawing crowds, bidders and conversation. It is a vivid snapshot of rural life, where a single remarkable catch can ignite commerce, culture and community interest in equal measure.

Naomi Raine and Todd Galberth return to Harare for the Everywhere Tour Zimbabwe on March 13, 2026 ( image source ) HARARE — The Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) will once again host internationally acclaimed gospel artistes Naomi Raine and Todd Galberth on March 13, 2026, as part of the Everywhere Tour Zimbabwe. The return follows their 2025 Maverick City tour appearance, which drew a strong turnout and left a lasting impression on local audiences. The concert will be headlined by Raine and Galberth, with support from local and regional worship ministries. Organisers describe the event as a collective worship experience rather than a conventional music show, centred on prayer, unity and spiritual renewal. Event director Lyncolin Kapswara of Events by GEC said the gathering is designed to foster communal worship. “These concerts go beyond music and create space for believers to meet and experience God together. Worship is something we do as a community. That is the heart of this event,” he said. Tickets are already on sale, with early-bird prices set at US$20 for general admission, US$50 for VIP seating and US$100 for the Golden Circle package, which includes a meet-and-greet with the artistes. Organisers say demand is strong, with interest expected from across Zimbabwe and the region. Raine, a founding voice of Maverick City Music, has continued to grow her solo ministry, releasing projects such as Journey, Cover the Earth (Live), The Gift and Jesus Over Everything (Live). Her music is widely associated with intimate, authentic worship and contemporary gospel expression. Galberth, a worship pastor and recording artiste, is known for projects including Decrease, Encounter and Greater, as well as popular worship songs such as Lord You Are Good and Better Than Good. His work is often described as rooted in perseverance, hope and prophetic expression. Organisers say the Everywhere Tour Zimbabwe aims to bring together believers for a night of worship, healing and reflection. As anticipation builds, the event is expected to be a significant moment on Zimbabwe’s gospel calendar, offering a shared space for faith, music and spiritual connection.

Zimbabwe amends its gold royalty regime after parliamentary debate, limiting the 10% rate to prices above US$5,000 per ounce to balance revenue goals with investor confidence ( image source ) HARARE — Zimbabwe’s Parliament has approved a revised budget bill that adjusts the royalty framework for gold producers, easing earlier proposals that had raised concern among miners and investors. Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube, who presented the 2024 National Budget, had initially proposed doubling the royalty rate to 10 percent for gold sold above US$2,501 per ounce. Following extended debate in the National Assembly, Ncube announced amendments under which the 10 percent royalty will only apply if bullion prices exceed US$5,000 per ounce. For gold priced between US$1,200 and US$5,000, the royalty rate will remain at 5 percent. Small-scale miners will continue to pay reduced royalties of up to 2 percent, a measure intended to support artisanal producers who account for a significant share of national output. The revision follows warnings from mining companies that higher royalties would erode profitability and discourage new investment. Caledonia Mining Plc, which operates the Blanket Mine producing about 80,000 ounces annually, cautioned that the proposed increase would negatively affect margins and could undermine development of the US$500 million Bilboes project, expected to become Zimbabwe’s largest gold mine. Gold output reached 42 metric tonnes in the 11 months to November 2025, surpassing the previous record of 37 tonnes achieved in 2024. The performance highlights the sector’s growth potential, but industry groups argue that fiscal certainty is critical to sustaining momentum and attracting capital. Analysts say the revised royalty framework reflects an attempt to balance government revenue ambitions with the need to preserve investor confidence. Defending the changes, Ncube said inflationary pressures and currency volatility had previously reduced the real value of government revenues, making adjustments necessary. He argued that the new thresholds provide clarity and predictability for producers while still allowing the state to benefit from exceptionally high gold prices. Industry associations welcomed the revision but called for continued engagement between policymakers and stakeholders. Mining executives say Zimbabwe’s ambition to consolidate its position among Africa’s leading gold producers will depend on stable, competitive fiscal policies. While the revised regime has eased immediate tensions, its long-term success will be judged by whether it supports sustained production growth and renewed investment in the mining sector.