By Mpundu Valerie Behind prison walls, one woman is stitching a new future one crystal bag at a time, showcasing how empowerment and rehabilitation in Zimbabwe can transform lives through creative entrepreneurship. For this inmate at Z.P.C.S, self-reliance started as a dream with no resources. Today, it’s a small business in the making centered on skilled craft and sustainable livelihood. "I remember starting out. It was heartache," she says. "I didn't have everything I needed. The idea and the urge were there, but resources were limited." What she did have was determination and a passion for handcrafts. The turning point came after a call from the First Lady, whose community development initiatives continue to uplift women across the country. Inspired, she approached the wardens. "I woke up one day and asked for help. Funds were pooled together and material was brought in for me to start." Now, she makes crystal handbags from scratch. Each one sells from just $35, offering custom fashion accessories that highlight resilience and skill. For her, the work is about more than money. It’s about mindset, personal rehabilitation, and building a brighter future. crystal handbags rehabilitation Zimbabwe

HARARE — CBZ Holdings plans to mobilise US$600 million to rehabilitate key highways linking Zimbabwe to regional markets, as the financial services group seeks to accelerate infrastructure development through private-sector financing. CBZ chief executive officer Lawrence Nyazema said the wider road network could ultimately require up to US$5 billion in investment, with US$75 million already secured under the initial financing programme. Nyazema was speaking during an analysts' briefing in Harare on Monday. He said CBZ was preparing to deploy the first US$100 million tranche of a planned US$600 million infrastructure bond. “We will start with the first 100 million. And if you recall, I said 75 million is already in place,” Nyazema said. “That’s where my confidence comes from when I say we should be able to start this basing before the end of August.” The initial programme will target the Harare-Chirundu highway, the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls road and the remaining section of the Beitbridge-Harare highway, with CBZ seeking to bring regional and international financiers into the programme. Harare-Chirundu highway targeted Nyazema said approximately 350 kilometres of the Harare-Chirundu highway would be targeted, with priority given to sections that have deteriorated significantly. He said the investment was not being pursued solely for financial returns but was also intended to support economic activity and regional trade. “The idea is not just to make money, but to make sure that the infrastructure that supports economic activity and regional trade is in place,” he said. CBZ also plans to finance rehabilitation of the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls highway, which Nyazema described as important for tourism and regional connectivity. The more than 400-kilometre road could require approximately US$450 million to upgrade, based on an estimated cost of about US$1 million per kilometre. The first phase of the programme will also include approximately US$35 million to complete the remaining section of the Beitbridge-Harare road. US$5bn road investment needed Nyazema said the planned US$600 million programme would cover only the first two phases of a much larger infrastructure initiative. CBZ estimates that Zimbabwe's broader road network could require up to US$5 billion in investment. The bank does not intend to raise the full amount at once. Instead, the projects will be rolled out in stages as financing becomes available. CBZ plans to raise the remaining US$500 million through bond listings, including on the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange (VFEX) and potentially a regional or international exchange, in an effort to attract foreign capital. Nyazema said the decision to begin with a US$100 million tranche was intended to allow work to start before all the financing was raised. Of that initial tranche, US$75 million is already secured, while the remaining US$500 million will be structured as the projects progress. Works to begin before rains CBZ expects to undertake preparatory works before the rainy season, with the larger financing package expected to be in place, or partially in place, by around February. Nyazema said the private sector was increasingly being called upon to help bridge Zimbabwe's infrastructure financing gap. He said financing, rather than a shortage of equipment or technical expertise, had been one of the major constraints affecting the completion of road projects. The proposed investment could provide a significant boost to Zimbabwe's road infrastructure while improving links between major economic centres, tourism destinations and regional trade corridors. CBZ US$600m road infrastructure

BULAWAYO — Martial arts instructor Tendai Humbasha Maduwa, popularly known as Sensei Tendai, has been granted US$200 bail and will return to the Bulawayo Magistrates’ Court on 8 September 2026 for trial on assault charges. Maduwa appeared before Bulawayo magistrate Themba Chimiso on Monday facing charges arising from a confrontation with two Tendy Three Investments (TTI) parking marshals. The State was represented by prosecutor Sam Mpofu, while Maduwa was represented by lawyer Dominic Moyo. The charges arise from an incident on 21 August 2026 along Fife Street near the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) building, where Maduwa allegedly clashed with two parking marshals after his vehicle was clamped. According to the prosecution, Maduwa was about to enter a parking bay when one of the marshals knocked on his vehicle window and told him the car had been clamped for obstructing traffic. Maduwa allegedly disputed the decision, arguing that his vehicle was still moving and that he had indicated his intention to enter the parking bay. The disagreement reportedly escalated into a physical confrontation, which was captured on video and later circulated widely on social media. In the footage, Maduwa is seen confronting the two marshals before allegedly grabbing them by their collars and slapping them during the altercation. Maduwa initially said the dispute had been resolved amicably at the scene. He claimed three TTI supervisors had intervened and apologised for what he described as the employees' arrogant conduct. He also offered to provide free public relations training to TTI staff. However, the matter later escalated after the two marshals lodged a criminal complaint with the police. Maduwa was arrested on 22 August after he was allegedly lured to TTI offices, leading to his subsequent court appearance. He is now due back in court on 8 September for trial. The accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Sensei Tendai assault case

Businessman Wicknell Chivayo has welcomed the conviction and sentencing of 18 armed robbers who attacked his in-laws last year, describing the outcome as “justice served” and praising the police officers who investigated the case. The 18 were reportedly sentenced to a combined 950 years in prison. In a social media post on Tuesday, 25 August 2026, Chivayo said the group had subjected his in-laws to a “terrifying ordeal” before being brought to justice. “Last week, I learnt the wonderful news that the group of 18 armed robbers who last year subjected my in-laws to a terrifying ordeal were finally convicted and sentenced to a wonderful, handsome and relaxing combined jail term of 950 years in prison,” Chivayo wrote. Chivayo praised the CID Homicide Department at Harare Central, saying officers handled the investigation with efficiency and determination. He specifically commended the response team, investigating officers, officer-in-charge and officer commanding for their work. “Criminal investigations of this nature require patience, intelligence, courage and painstaking attention to detail. I witnessed first-hand the seriousness with which these officers approached their responsibility,” he said. Chivayo said Zimbabweans were often quick to criticise law-enforcement agencies when things went wrong but should also recognise officers when they performed well. “These dedicated men and women work under difficult and sometimes extremely dangerous circumstances to protect our families, our communities and our country,” he said. Chivayo proposes police donation In appreciation of the officers' work, Chivayo said he had written to President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Monday seeking approval to make a donation to the police. He said the proposed package includes 10 new 2026 Toyota Fortuner 2.8 V6 vehicles, or equivalent vehicles chosen by the police, for CID Homicide in Harare. The vehicles would be intended to improve operational mobility in Harare and beyond. Chivayo also proposed donating US$250,000 worth of specialised tactical and protective equipment to enhance officers' safety during operations. In addition, he said he wanted to provide an iPhone 17 Pro Max to every officer attached to the department at Harare Central, regardless of whether they directly participated in the investigation. The proposed donations are subject to government approval, including authorisation through Commissioner-General of Police Stephen Mutamba, Chivayo said. “This proposed donation and gesture, if approved, is simply my small way of saying thank you for a job well done,” he said. “Those who put their lives on the line protecting innocent citizens deserve to be properly equipped and supported.” The proposed donation has yet to receive the required approval. Wicknell Chivayo police donation

HARARE — Kelsea Tadiwa Tafirenyika has told a Harare court that luxury properties and vehicles at the centre of a US$9.3 million money-laundering case were gifts from her husband, Collins Mnangagwa. Tafirenyika, the wife of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s son, told the court on Monday that Collins had a substantial business empire capable of funding the acquisition of the assets. Her bail hearing was postponed to Wednesday, leaving her in custody. Tafirenyika, represented by lawyer Admire Rubaya, is accused of laundering proceeds allegedly generated from the unlawful dealing in pethidine hydrochloride, morphine sulphate and dagga. The State says assets identified in Zimbabwe are valued at US$9,353,750, excluding a Toyota Land Cruiser, registration number AHQ 2800, which has not yet been valued. The portfolio allegedly includes 10 properties in Harare's northern suburbs, among them a US$1.1 million house in Borrowdale Brooke, an US$850,000 property in Borrowdale, an US$800,000 property in Chisipite and another Borrowdale property valued at US$750,000. The State also listed luxury vehicles including two Lamborghinis valued at US$561,000 and US$577,300, a Bentley Continental valued at US$380,000, a Land Rover valued at US$380,000 and a Jaguar worth US$340,000. State challenges gift explanation During cross-examination, Rubaya challenged investigating officer Detective Assistant Inspector Gift Machipisa to dispute Tafirenyika's explanation that the assets were gifts from her husband. Machipisa told the court that police had evidence contradicting the explanation, including evidence that some properties were paid for in cash. He cited a property in Victoria Falls whose owner allegedly confirmed receiving cash directly from Tafirenyika. Police have also secured vehicle registration records from the Central Vehicle Registry for nine vehicles, as well as title deeds and Deeds Registry searches relating to the 10 properties, the court heard. The State further alleges that police recovered a forged national identity document bearing the name Gertrude Badza from Tafirenyika. State alleges unexplained wealth Prosecutors allege that Tafirenyika has no employment or disclosed lawful income capable of explaining the acquisition of assets worth millions of dollars over a period of about three-and-a-half years. The State further alleges that she owns or controls 13 properties outside Zimbabwe, in Dubai and South Africa, and could flee the country if granted bail. The alleged forged identity document has also been cited as part of the State's argument that she poses a flight risk. Rubaya challenged the investigating officer's affidavit, arguing that it was not properly commissioned because the signatory had not stated his rank. Tafirenyika was re-arrested last Thursday shortly after securing US$1,000 bail in a separate drug case. She is also on remand with her uncle, Isaac Jessub, on drug possession charges. The investigation has reportedly extended to three companies Apex Logistics Pvt Ltd, Royal Printing Pvt Ltd and With Three Investments Pvt Ltd — which police allege were used to conceal proceeds. Police are pursuing banking and registry records and intend to seek assistance from authorities in South Africa and the United Arab Emirates. Machipisa told the court that investigators expect to complete the probe within two months. Magistrate Francis Mapfumo postponed the bail proceedings to Wednesday after Machipisa asked to be excused to attend his father's burial. Tafirenyika has not been convicted of the allegations and remains presumed innocent until proven guilty. Kelsea Tafirenyika US$9.3m assets

A Big Game Motors bus was allegedly attacked with a suspected mining explosive at Chinheya Business Centre in Chipinge early Friday morning, leaving the vehicle extensively damaged. The incident occurred at around 3am on 21 August 2026, according to police. Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident, saying the bus driver and conductor were asleep inside the vehicle when an unidentified person allegedly threw a detonator at the rear wheels. “We are investigating a case of attempted murder and malicious damage to property which happened on August 21, 2026. A bus belonging to Big Game was parked at Chinheya Business Centre,” Nyathi said. “On the same day around 3am, a person went to the bus and threw a detonator on the rear wheels. The bus driver and conductor were sleeping inside the bus at the back. “The driver and conductor managed to escape safely. The bus was damaged at the back. We are now investigating the motive behind the attack.” The blast reportedly damaged the bus's right rear tyre and axle, leaving the vehicle grounded. Police have launched investigations and are treating the case as attempted murder and malicious damage to property. No arrests had been made by the time of publication. The attack has raised fresh concerns over growing tensions in Chipinge's passenger transport sector, amid competition for lucrative routes linking the town with major destinations including Harare, Bulawayo and Kwekwe. Residents said the explosion caused alarm in the area and renewed concerns about the safety of passengers, drivers and conductors who rely on public transport every day. The motive for the attack has not yet been established, and police investigations are continuing. Chipinge bus bombed

A 21-year-old woman from Chipinge has been arrested in connection with the alleged killing of her newborn baby, who police say was thrown into a Blair toilet pit shortly after birth. The woman, identified as Irine Lucia Simango of Chako Village under Chief Mutema, allegedly gave birth to a live baby boy inside a toilet at her employer’s homestead before throwing the infant into the pit. Manicaland acting provincial police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka confirmed the incident to The Masvingo Mirror. Simango is employed as a domestic worker by 66-year-old Charles Muyaza of Mudzimwa Village. According to police, the incident occurred on 15 August 2026 at around 9pm, when Simango reportedly went to the toilet after experiencing labour pains and gave birth. She allegedly threw the newborn into the toilet pit and dropped stones onto the infant before returning to her bedroom, where she went to sleep. The following morning, at around 6am, Simango allegedly returned to the toilet to clean up. Blood-stained clothing and other blood stains reportedly remained at the scene. Police allege that Joice Muhlanga, 57, became suspicious after seeing Simango carrying a bucket and broom. Muhlanga reportedly noticed the blood and clothing and asked Simango whether she had undergone an abortion, which she denied. Three days later, on 18 August, Muhlanga reportedly looked into the toilet pit using a torch and saw the body of a baby partially covered by stones. She alerted her brother, Muyaza, who subsequently reported the matter to the police. Simango was arrested and is expected to appear in court. The allegations have not yet been tested in court, and Simango is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Chipinge woman arrested over newborn baby’s death

GUESS what? I used to know cinnamon way back during childhood. As a spice. Only for cakes. Isn’t it funny. That’s all most of us probably knew in relation to cinnamon. So seeing cinnamon anywhere else was unusual and totally absurd. Decades later, and exposed to knowledge, we are wiser but lesser in number. Had we known, maybe cinnamon would have saved more lives and we would still have our folk with us up to this day. Cinnamon is a well known spice packed with powerful antioxidants, valuable medicinal properties, and the ability to improve blood sugar control, support heart health, and reduce inflammation. A colleague of mine , years back, shared a printed PowerPoint presentation showing the immense health benefits of cinnamon and honey. That combination convinced me to view cinnamon without honey as a waste of effort. This was life changing and still is, provided your honey is not just melted sugar posing as the real thing, so watch out !!!!. The Magic of Honey & Cinnamon………… Whilst most theories view the combination of honey and cinnamon as a myth, l had the privilege of experiencing the magic personally. My levels of energy were beyond imagination. I had to force myself to rest because l was unstoppable. Honey combined with cinnamon……. 1. Reduces The Risk Of Heart Disease How To Use: Take equal parts (or as required) of cinnamon & honey powder and make a paste. Spread this on wheat bread and include it in your breakfast. 2. Enhances Immunity How To Use: Add a pinch of cinnamon powder to a glass of lukewarm honey water. Take it in the mornings, especially in the cold seasons. Drinking cinnamon and honey mixture will also help clear your sinuses. 3. Treats Skin Infections How To Use: Mix 1 part cinnamon powder with 3 parts honey and use it as a face mask. It cleanses your pores. And for treating acne, this is what you can do. Take 3 tablespoons of Manuka honey and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon and make a paste. Microwave for 30 seconds (it shouldn’t be too hot, by the way) and apply the mask to your face. Leave it on for 10 minutes. Rinse and pat your face dry with a soft towel. 4. Helps Treat Inflammation And Arthritis How To Use: Mix equal parts of cinnamon powder and honey and apply the mixture to the affected area. You can also add a little bit of apple cider vinegar for better results. 5. Is Good For Diabetes How To Use: You can mix equal parts of honey and cinnamon powder till you get a paste. Spread this paste on your toast or mix it in your juice. 6. Helps Treat Bladder Infections How To Use: Mix two teaspoons of cinnamon and one teaspoon of honey with a glass of warm water. Consume it once a day. This must help relieve the bladder infection. If the infection is too severe, you can substitute water with cranberry juice. 7. Helps Treat Indigestion And Other Gastric Issues How To Use: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon powder on two tablespoons of honey. Take this mixture before your meals. 8. Helps Lower Cholesterol How To Use: Mix 2 tablespoons of honey and 3 teaspoons of cinnamon powder with around 470 ml of tea water. Take this mixture in the mornings. 9. Cinnamon And Honey For Weight Loss How To Use: Take 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 cup of filtered water. Boil the water. Add the cinnamon in a separate bowl. Pour the hot water over the cinnamon, and let it steep for 15 minutes. Once the liquid cools down, add honey to it. You can drink this mixture twice a day – once in the morning, and once in the evening. Take it on an empty stomach. 10. Helps Treat Infertility How To Use: Mix cinnamon with a small amount of honey to make a paste. Spread the paste over your gums – your body will slowly absorb it. 11. Maintains Hair Health How To Use: Take equal parts of honey and cinnamon powder and mix with warm olive oil. Before shampooing, massage this warm mix into your hair and leave it on for 15 minutes. Shampoo your hair. 12. Helps Cure Bad Breath How To Use: Mix one teaspoon of honey and a pinch of cinnamon powder with warm water. Gargle the mixture first thing in the morning. 13. Offers Energy Boost How To Use: Mix equal parts of honey and cinnamon powder and have it in the morning with breakfast. 14. Prevents Allergies: How To Use: One simple way is to mix equal parts of honey and cinnamon powder and consume it in the morning. If it’s a skin allergy, you can apply the same to the affected area. 15. Cures A Sore Throat How To Use: Simply swallowing a teaspoon of honey in the morning can make your throat feel better. 16. Helps Treat Asthma How To Use: Mix 1 teaspoon of honey with ½ teaspoon of cinnamon powder. Have the mixture at night before going to bed and in the morning on an empty stomach. Repeat regularly. If the cinnamon is causing problems, you can use a simple mixture of honey and water. Heat 250 ml of water and stir in 1 teaspoon of honey. Consume thrice a day Ceylon versus Cassia cinnamon Not all cinnamon is the same. Ceylon cinnamon, sometimes called “true cinnamon”, generally contains much lower levels of coumarin. Cassia cinnamon, which is commonly sold commercially, can contain substantially higher amounts of coumarin. Large or prolonged amounts may pose a concern, particularly for people with liver disease. For that reason, people who consume cinnamon regularly may wish to pay attention to the type they are buying and avoid consuming large quantities. A note on diabetes One of the most common claims surrounding cinnamon is that it can control or even cure diabetes. That claim should be treated with caution. Some studies have reported improvements in fasting blood glucose or certain cholesterol measures among people with type 2 diabetes who used cinnamon supplements. However, the studies vary considerably in dosage, preparation, duration and participants, and researchers have not reached a clear conclusion about cinnamon as a treatment. Cinnamon and honey should therefore never replace diabetes medication, prescribed treatment or professional medical advice. The bottom line Cinnamon and honey can both be part of a normal diet, and both have long histories of traditional use. But traditional use and personal experience are not the same as clinical evidence. Enjoy cinnamon as a spice, use honey sensibly, and be cautious about claims that promise to cure serious illnesses naturally. Natural does not automatically mean risk-free, and a product's popularity does not prove that it is medically effective. Anyone with a persistent or serious health problem should consult a qualified healthcare professional before attempting to treat the condition with home remedies or dietary supplements. About the author Dr Precious Sibiya is described as a wellness practitioner and advocate for natural healing and lifestyle. She shares wellness information and personal perspectives on natural approaches to health. Contact: precioussibiya2014@gmail.comPhone: +263 775 369 467 Disclaimer This article is provided for general informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Readers should consult a qualified healthcare professional about any medical condition, medication or dietary supplement. Individual experiences with foods, herbs and supplements may differ. Cinnamon and honey

A Bulawayo magistrate has denied bail to three relatives of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s son, Collins Mnangagwa, who are facing charges of dealing in dangerous drugs. Amina Jassinta Jessub Arab, 47, her daughter Dyonne Tanaka Tafirenyika, 28, and their relative Noreen Jessub, 51, appeared before magistrate Taurai Manuwere on Monday. The trio was remanded in custody until September 3, 2026. The women were arrested last Wednesday at a lodge in Bulawayo’s Ilanda suburb following a police search of their rooms. Magistrate says State has strong case Manuwere rejected the bail applications, saying the State had presented a strong case and that the seriousness of the alleged offences, combined with the possibility of imprisonment, increased the risk of absconding. “The State has a strong case against the accused persons,” Manuwere said. He noted that the alleged drugs and a substantial amount of money were reportedly recovered from rooms occupied by the accused. “Cocaine and Crystal meth are serious drugs and in the event that there is a conviction, there could be a possible custodial sentence. Such a possibility or likelihood can influence absconding,” the magistrate said. The court also considered that the three women do not permanently reside in Bulawayo and have valid passports and access to significant financial resources, factors the magistrate said could make it easier for them to leave the city or country. Cocaine, crystal meth and US$53,055 allegedly recovered According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), police allegedly recovered drugs from all three women’s rooms. Two sachets of cocaine, reportedly valued at ZiG9,000, were allegedly found concealed inside a shoe in Jessub’s room. In Arab’s room, police allegedly discovered two sachets of cocaine hidden inside a small bag. The NPA alleges that Tafirenyika’s room contained a sachet of crystal methamphetamine, another sachet of cocaine and US$53,055 in cash. The prosecution opposed bail, describing the evidence as “overwhelming” and arguing that the three women were flight risks. Prosecutors also alleged that the cash could be proceeds of crime because its source had allegedly not been explained. Defence challenges prosecution case Defence lawyer Brezhnev Mathonsi argued that the three were suitable candidates for bail. He said the State was already holding their passports and argued that there was no realistic risk of interference with witnesses because investigators had already collected evidence from the scene. “The state already has all their passports, and there are no witnesses that could be interfered with as the state has already collected all its evidence at the scene,” Mathonsi said. Mathonsi also challenged the prosecution's evidence, arguing that several security agencies were involved in the search and suggesting that this created the possibility that the drugs could have been planted. He further asked the court to ensure that Arab receives a medical examination following her allegation that she was assaulted, with the resulting report to be included in the case file. The three accused remain presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. Their next court appearance is scheduled for September 3. Collins Mnangagwa in-laws denied bail

By Obey Musiwa Veteran Zimbabwean musician Alexio Kawara, famed for his timeless hit Shaina, is charting a new chapter in his career by embracing live-band performances and fresh love songs, aiming to reconnect with audiences across generations. While Kawara’s earlier hits cemented his place in the country’s music scene, his current focus on live shows and new releases reflects a deliberate rediscovery of his creative identity—one that blends nostalgia with innovation. Speaking to Zimpapers, Mr. Kawara shared that his renewed emphasis on live-band music has allowed him to engage both longtime fans and new listeners. He noted that live-band setups have transformed his artistry, sharpening his technical abilities and deepening his connection with audiences. "It has been almost 18 years since I started playing with a band," he said. "Besides the presentation, it has helped me to improve my skills as a vocalist, mbira player, and performer." He expressed joy at seeing his music resonate with children and school choirs, underscoring the enduring, cross-generational reach of his catalog. "It is every musician’s dream to have their music outlive them," Kawara noted. "I have even seen choirs perform my songs. That alone brings me satisfaction to know that my music still speaks across all generations." Mr. Kawara attributed the longevity of his discography to sincerity and quality rather than relying on a fixed commercial formula. "All I have ever done was to write music from my heart," he said. "The first person who must appreciate it is myself." Looking ahead, the urban grooves pioneer revealed plans to release four new tracks this year, beginning with a romantic single ahead of the wedding season, alongside a series of upcoming live concerts. "People have been asking for love songs, and that is what I will give them," he said. "There are definitely a few live shows coming up before the end of the year, starting this September." Alexio Kawara new music

By Obey Musiwa Zimbabwe's creative sector is finding new pathways to opportunity through BLAZE’s Trailblazers campaign, a platform designed to transform raw vision into viable careers and sustainable industries. The campaign recognises that talent alone is rarely enough, highlighting the need to bridge the gap between artistic ability and professional access through a structured ecosystem where young, untapped creatives can learn, collaborate, and build long-term livelihoods. In a press statement, BLAZE Trailblazers founder Mr. Thabiso Molai emphasised that the initiative is built on access and investment rather than charity, aiming to empower young Zimbabweans as both creators and entrepreneurs. "Trailblazers is built on a simple belief: young Zimbabweans have never lacked talent; they have lacked access and opportunity," said Mr. Molai. "It is not charity; it is an investment in the next generation of creators, entrepreneurs, and leaders." The campaign intends to partner with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) to expand its reach, ensuring young talent from all corners of the country can access exposure and showcase their work. Mr. Molai added that Trailblazers goes beyond highlighting talent to constructing a commercial creative framework capable of generating employment and driving national development. "A thriving creative ecosystem can stimulate tourism, entrepreneurship, technology, and cultural exports — supporting creativity is also about supporting economic development," he said. Reflecting on the program's practical impact, stylist Llewelyn Kukondori (Tecco 10) noted that the initial workshops exposed participants to the operational realities of their craft. "Our first workshop was in Harare, where we learnt so much and got exposed to the different elements of business regarding our craft, notably the many elements that go into production," Kukondori said. "It reminded us that succeeding in the creative economy requires more than artistic ability — it is about marketing, managing finances, and building a brand." Fashion creative and stylist Panashe Kunzero (Pinky) echoed these sentiments, noting that Trailblazers validates creative work as a legitimate, investment-worthy industry. "It is rare to see people who care about your craft and want to capacitate you to reach your maximum potential," Kunzero said. "Our craft is not always understood, so to find a brand willing to expand your horizons is amazing." BLAZE Trailblazers campaign Zimbabwe

A proposed change to end-of-life law in the United Kingdom is drawing attention in Zimbabwe, where thousands of nationals work in the British care sector and send money home to support families. The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill is scheduled for its second reading in the House of Commons on September 11, 2026. The Private Member’s Bill would allow eligible terminally ill adults in England and Wales to request and receive lawful assistance to end their lives, subject to safeguards. The proposal has sparked a renewed debate over assisted dying, palliative care and the protection of vulnerable people. The Roman Catholic Bishop of Nottingham, Right Rev Patrick Joseph McKinney, has strongly opposed the Bill, describing it as “assisted suicide” and urging Catholics to contact their MPs. In a pastoral letter read across the Diocese, McKinney argued that the proposed law raises fundamental questions about how society values and protects human life. “As Catholics we can never support assisted suicide in any situation or any circumstances,” he said. The Bishop also called for greater investment in palliative care, arguing that patients approaching the end of life should receive better support rather than assistance to die. His intervention comes as Parliament prepares to debate the latest version of the Bill. The previous Bill, which had passed through extensive parliamentary scrutiny, made no further progress when the 2024–26 parliamentary session ended. Potential implications for Zimbabwean workers The debate has particular relevance for Zimbabwe because the UK care sector has become an important source of employment for Zimbabwean nationals and a significant channel for remittances to families at home. However, it remains too early to conclude that the proposed law would result in widespread job losses among Zimbabwean care workers. The UK Government’s impact assessment says the legislation could affect professionals involved in assisted dying, but also makes clear that participation would not be compulsory. The proposed system is specifically aimed at adults who are terminally ill and expected to die within six months. Eligible people would have to meet requirements including being aged 18 or over, living in England and Wales, being registered with a GP and having mental capacity to make the decision. The Government’s assessment also says assisted dying is intended to form part of a wider approach to end-of-life care rather than replace palliative care. Bishop warns against changing the law McKinney nevertheless warned that legalising assisted dying could change attitudes towards vulnerable people. He cited concerns about developments in countries that have introduced assisted dying laws, arguing that eligibility criteria can become broader over time. He also expressed concern about people potentially choosing assisted death because they feel like a burden or because of financial pressures. The Bishop said Britain should instead strengthen palliative and hospice care, particularly given the country's historic role in developing the modern hospice movement. What happens next? The Bill remains at the parliamentary stage and has not become law. Its second reading on September 11 will give MPs an opportunity to debate its principles before any further stages. The Government has stated that it is neutral on the substantive policy question of assisted dying, while seeking to ensure that any legislation passed is workable and enforceable. For Zimbabweans working in Britain's care sector, the debate is worth watching closely—not only because of the potential implications for healthcare employment, but also because of the wider questions it raises about palliative care, assisted dying and the future of end-of-life services in the UK. UK assisted dying Bill Zimbabweans