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NetOne has appointed Richard Mahomva as Head of Public Relations from January 2026 ( image source ) Mobile network operator NetOne has appointed Richard Mahomva as its new Head of Public Relations, effective 1 January 2026, as the company moves to strengthen strategic communications and public engagement amid intensifying competition in the telecommunications sector. Mahomva joins NetOne from the Ministry of Information, where he currently serves as Director for International Communications Services. In that role, he has been responsible for coordinating Zimbabwe’s international communications agenda, managing messaging across diplomatic, media and multilateral platforms. In a statement, NetOne said the appointment reflects a renewed focus on sharpening corporate messaging, enhancing stakeholder confidence and reinforcing the company’s brand positioning. The operator noted that as it modernises infrastructure and expands its service offerings, effective communication with customers, regulators, investors and the wider public has become a strategic priority. Mahomva brings extensive experience in public sector communications, policy messaging and international engagement. Analysts say these skills are likely to support a more structured and proactive public relations strategy for the state-owned operator at a time when clarity around network upgrades, service quality, pricing and digital innovation is increasingly critical. In his new role, Mahomva will oversee NetOne’s public relations agenda, including media relations, crisis communication and stakeholder engagement, while supporting broader corporate objectives aligned with national digital transformation goals. His background in government communications is also expected to be an asset as NetOne balances commercial competitiveness with public service obligations. The telecommunications sector remains central to Zimbabwe’s digital economy, underpinning mobile financial services, e-commerce, e-government platforms and social connectivity. Industry observers argue that reputational strength and public trust now rank alongside infrastructure investment as key determinants of long-term success. Mahomva’s appointment signals NetOne’s recognition of strategic communication as a core business function rather than a support role.

Zimbabwean filmmaker Promise Ncube’s new drama series No Woman Is Single explores love, loyalty and betrayal through the story of two brothers whose bond collapses after they fall in love with the same woman ( image source ) A new drama series, No Woman Is Single, written by Zimbabwe-born filmmaker Promise Ncube, is attracting attention for its stark portrayal of love, loyalty and the far-reaching consequences of betrayal within families. Shot across the urban landscapes of Soweto and Hillbrow in South Africa, the series follows the unraveling relationship between two brothers whose bond collapses after they fall in love with the same woman. The story centres on Mestoe and 24 Hours Mdluli, brothers whose lives are shaped by crime, incarceration and fragile loyalties. Their conflict intensifies when Belinda, played by actress and former dancer Sanele Ncube, becomes romantically involved with both men at different points. Belinda initially dates 24 Hours, but after his imprisonment for involvement in organised crime, she later enters a relationship with his younger brother, Mestoe. According to Ncube, the narrative examines how personal choices made in moments of vulnerability can permanently fracture family ties. Tensions escalate when 24 Hours is released from prison and discovers the relationship. A violent confrontation follows, but Mestoe refuses to abandon Belinda, and the pair proceed with plans to marry. The rivalry reaches a dramatic peak on the wedding day, when 24 Hours is ambushed and shot, narrowly surviving the attack. By that point, the brothers’ relationship is beyond repair. Beyond its dramatic arc, the series delivers a cautionary social message. Ncube said the story highlights the destructive consequences of romantic relationships within the same family, warning that such entanglements can damage not only individuals but entire family structures. The production also explores broader themes of crime, loyalty, incarceration and emotional survival in urban communities. No Woman Is Single premiered on October 5 under 24Hours TV Production and has so far completed four episodes, with plans to expand beyond 30 episodes. As Zimbabwean creatives continue to establish themselves within regional film and television industries, the series positions itself as both a compelling drama and a reflection of the moral dilemmas faced in contemporary urban life.

The US has expanded travel bans under President Donald Trump’s second administration, reviving a controversial policy that has sparked legal challenges, diplomatic concern and renewed debate over national security and humanitarian obligations ( image source ) The United States, under President Donald Trump’s second administration, has sharply expanded and tightened travel restrictions in 2025, reviving one of the most controversial policy tools of his earlier presidency and triggering renewed legal, diplomatic and humanitarian debate. A presidential proclamation issued in December 2025 broadened the list of countries facing full or partial entry bans, while imposing tougher visa vetting requirements on others. The expanded measures introduce stricter criteria linked to identity-management systems, visa overstay rates and information-sharing gaps between Washington and partner governments. The White House says the policy is intended to strengthen national security and restore what it describes as the “integrity” of the US immigration system. The move represents a significant escalation from the original travel bans rolled out in 2017, which targeted a smaller group of countries and sparked widespread international backlash. Those earlier measures were challenged in court, culminating in a 2018 US Supreme Court ruling that upheld a revised version of the ban. The restrictions were later rescinded in 2021, making the 2025 proclamation a striking policy reversal and a reminder of how swiftly US immigration rules can shift with changes in political leadership. Reaction to the expanded bans has been swift and polarised. Human-rights organisations and refugee advocacy groups warn that the broader restrictions risk worsening humanitarian crises and undermining long-standing asylum protections. They argue that blanket bans stigmatise entire populations and disrupt family reunification, academic exchanges and business travel. Several affected governments have also voiced concern over the potential diplomatic fallout and the uncertainty facing travellers whose visa processing has been suspended or delayed. Legal challenges are widely anticipated. Constitutional lawyers note that previous court battles focused on the scope of executive authority, equal-protection concerns and whether country-wide bans rely on overly broad assumptions rather than individualised risk assessments. Civil-liberties groups have already indicated their readiness to contest the new measures, while supporters argue that US law grants the president wide discretion to regulate entry in the interests of national security. Beyond the courts, the operational impact is expected to be substantial. US consulates worldwide must implement new screening protocols, revise guidance and manage growing application backlogs. Airlines and travel operators face uncertainty as admissibility rules evolve, while diaspora communities may experience abrupt disruptions to travel and family plans. Economists have also cautioned that the restrictions could dampen tourism, trade ties and academic collaboration with affected regions. Policy analysts continue to describe travel bans as blunt instruments. While they may address specific security concerns, critics say they carry high diplomatic and economic costs and can weaken international cooperation on counter-terrorism, migration management and public health surveillance. Many experts argue for more targeted, evidence-based approaches, improved data-sharing with partner states and long-term investment in border and identity-management systems. As the expanded restrictions take effect, legal scrutiny, diplomatic engagement and operational pressures are expected to intensify. The debate once again centres on a familiar fault line: how far a government should go to protect national security without undermining humanitarian obligations, global mobility and international trust.

Zimbabwe Rugby Union has appointed former Sables international Takunda Chifokoyo as general manager ( image source ) The Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) has appointed former Sables international Takunda Chifokoyo as its new general manager, a move that signals a significant step in the union’s ongoing governance and administrative reform process. The appointment takes effect this month and was announced by the Interim Management Committee (IMC) appointed by the Sport and Recreation Commission (SRC) to stabilise and restructure the troubled organisation. In a statement, the IMC said Chifokoyo’s appointment forms part of reforms presented to stakeholders in October, aimed at strengthening operational systems, restoring governance credibility and professionalising the administration of rugby in Zimbabwe. The union has faced prolonged governance challenges in recent years, prompting intervention by the SRC and the installation of interim leadership. Chifokoyo brings strong rugby credentials to the role. A former Zimbabwe Sables international, he made his senior debut during the 2012 Rugby Africa Cup and earned nine caps for the national side. His playing career concluded in 2013 during the Rugby World Cup repechage match against Russia. He is widely respected within the rugby fraternity for his understanding of the game both on and off the field. Since retiring from active play, Chifokoyo has transitioned into administration, serving as team manager of the Zimbabwe Sables since 2023. His tenure coincided with a resurgence in the national team’s fortunes, with the Sables winning back-to-back Rugby Africa Cup titles in 2024 and 2025. Those victories secured qualification for the Rugby World Cup and marked a turning point after years of instability within the sport. The IMC cited Chifokoyo’s World Rugby certification as a manager, his experience coordinating technical, medical and logistical teams, and his background in the financial services sector as key strengths. The committee said these skills would be critical in improving reporting systems, governance frameworks and operational controls within the union. Chifokoyo assumes the role at a critical moment for Zimbabwean rugby. While performances on the field have improved, ZRU continues to face funding constraints, institutional weaknesses and the task of rebuilding trust with players, sponsors and affiliates. His mandate includes consolidating recent sporting gains, strengthening internal systems and supporting the transition toward a stable, transparent and professionally run rugby body.

CCC senator Jameson Timba has warned that postponing elections or extending presidential terms threatens Zimbabwe’s constitutional order ( image source ) Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) senator Jameson Timba has strongly criticised Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi’s suggestion that postponing elections or extending presidential tenure could bring political stability, warning that such proposals undermine constitutional order and risk deepening national polarisation. Timba anchored his argument in the 2013 Constitution, which provides for a five-year electoral cycle, arguing that regular, predictable elections are the foundation of stability. He told Parliament that delaying polls would erode public trust in democratic institutions and potentially fuel unrest rather than calm. His remarks come amid reports that Zanu PF is considering constitutional amendments to extend current terms to 2030, a move critics say would effectively defer the 2028 general elections. Timba cautioned that stability cannot be manufactured through ad hoc tenure extensions that concentrate power and weaken legitimacy. He argued that any proposal affecting term limits or election timelines must be subjected to broad public consultation and approved through a referendum. “A government confident of its popular support should not fear the people’s verdict,” Timba said, adding that constitutional changes imposed without public consent would only heighten political tensions. Political analysts say Timba’s position reflects a wider regional lesson that suspending or altering electoral timetables in the name of stability often produces uncertainty and resistance. Commentators note that the debate has already energised civil society and opposition groups, increasing the political and reputational cost of unilateral constitutional change. Some observers also point to recent internal disputes within political parties, including over parliamentary co-options, as evidence that the issue is intertwined with broader questions of governance and accountability. Legal experts warn that normalising term extensions could weaken institutional checks and balances and open the door to executive overreach. International partners, they add, may interpret such moves as a retreat from democratic norms. By calling for a referendum, Timba has framed the issue as one of legitimacy, arguing that any departure from the constitutional order must be sanctioned directly by the electorate.

The China Hunan Association in Zimbabwe has donated groceries to families of children with disabilities in Epworth and pledged US$50 000 to build an inclusive classroom block at Chinamano Council Primary School ( image source ) Harare — The China Hunan Association in Zimbabwe, working with the China Medical Team, has donated groceries worth more than US$4 000 to 100 parents of children with disabilities in Epworth’s Spillway suburb and pledged to build an inclusive classroom block at Chinamano Council Primary School. The annual Christmas outreach included the distribution of food hampers and the provision of free medical screenings for children and caregivers. During the event, the association announced a US$50 000 infrastructure project that will see the construction of a classroom block designed to cater for learners with physical and learning disabilities. The planned facility will include classrooms, shower rooms, toilets, kitchens and sleeping quarters. Association chairperson Zhuolin Song said the initiative was aimed at long-term empowerment rather than short-term relief. “We are committed to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for children with disabilities,” he said, adding that education remained central to building resilient communities. Local organisations, including the Zimbabwe Parents Living with Children with Disabilities and the Zimbabwe National Association of the Handicapped, assisted in identifying beneficiaries. Chinamano Council Primary School head Jefias Mateo and community leaders welcomed the pledge, saying the planned infrastructure would help address persistent gaps in facilities for children with special needs. Members of the China Medical Team conducted health screenings and issued referrals for follow-up treatment at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals where necessary. Parents described the support as timely, particularly ahead of the festive season, while community representatives called for complementary improvements such as better sanitation, electricity supply and wall repairs at the school. Walter Chanaka, managing director of the China Zimbabwe Exchange Centre, said the initiative reflected the value of people-to-people cooperation in strengthening bilateral relations and supporting community development. The combined humanitarian support and infrastructure commitment highlight the growing role of targeted philanthropy in supplementing public services and advancing inclusive education in underserved communities.

Makedenge told Regional Magistrate Noel Mupeiwa she was innocent of the allegations ( image source ) Harare — A United States-based woman, Zvikomborero Maria Makedenge, pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to a charge of aggravated indecent assault at the Harare regional magistrate’s court, where defence and prosecution presented sharply divergent versions of events that allegedly unfolded in August. Represented by lawyer Lenon Rwizi, Makedenge told Regional Magistrate Noel Mupeiwa she was innocent of the allegations. According to the defence, the 16-year-old complainant visited Makedenge’s residence on August 2, 2025, complaining of flu and a headache. The accused prepared a ginger drink and offered to fetch paracetamol, the court heard. Rwizi said the complainant later made sexual advances that Makedenge rejected and reprimanded, and that the subsequent complaint was motivated by fear the accused would inform her boyfriend a relative of the complainant and by hostility from the boyfriend’s family, who allegedly opposed the relationship. The State painted a different picture. Prosecutors allege that after handing Makedenge a broom, the complainant retreated to a spare bedroom and was followed by the accused, who then forced him into the room, restrained him with an electric cable, removed his trousers and engaged in non-consensual intercourse. The prosecution says the accused threatened the boy with silence and promised to take him to the United Kingdom, where she is employed. A medical examination was conducted and a medical affidavit is expected to be tendered as evidence. Magistrate Mupeiwa cleared the public gallery to allow the underage complainant to testify in private, in line with protections for minors in sexual-offence proceedings. The case will proceed as the court considers witness testimony and forensic material. Observers noted the sensitivity of cases involving minors and the importance of careful handling to protect victims while ensuring a fair trial for the accused.

Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume’s vintage Rolls-Royce broke down at a Christmas lights event ( image source ) HARARE – What was intended to be a grand display of civic pride turned into a viral comedy of errors this week after Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume’s vintage ceremonial Rolls-Royce broke down during the city’s annual Christmas lights switch-on event. The incident, captured in a widely shared X (formerly Twitter) video captioned simply “Doink 🤡”, ignited a storm of ridicule and civic critique online. As the luxury vehicle overheated and stalled, forcing the mayor to abandon it and continue on foot, many residents drew immediate parallels between the car’s failure and Harare’s long-standing infrastructure challenges. On X, reactions were swift and unforgiving. While some users treated the episode humorously, joking that the mayor was now “walking like a normal person,” others used the moment to vent deeper frustrations about service delivery. Responses to The Herald Zimbabwe’s coverage were particularly biting, with one user remarking, “Infrastructure issues are everywhere; even the cars can’t cope.” Facebook commentary followed a similar path. In community groups, the laughter quickly gave way to practical criticism, with residents questioning why proper mechanical checks had not been conducted before such a high-profile event. One widely shared post summed up the mood by calling the incident “Zimbabwe’s energy in a nutshell.” The episode also drew attention from the business community, prompting both rebuke and unexpected support. Philanthropist and businessman Andrew Makahamadze criticised what he described as poor brand and financial management, warning of reputational and legal risks. “When using brands like Rolls-Royce, make sure you keep standards,” he said. “Broke as you are, if sued, you will definitely be sent to the cleaners.” In an ironic turn, the public embarrassment and ensuing debate sparked a gesture of corporate social responsibility. Mercpro chief executive Munyaradzi Mukuya offered the City of Harare his company’s high-end specialist diagnostic services free of charge, saying the aim was to ensure the ceremonial vehicle is mechanically sound before any future public appearances. For many residents in Southerton and across Harare, the image of the mayor walking beside a stalled Rolls-Royce has become a powerful metaphor. While some saw it as a moment of unexpected relatability, the dominant sentiment online centred on priorities and governance. As the festive season unfolds, the city administration now faces the challenge of shifting the narrative from a viral mishap back to the pressing task of delivering reliable services — and proving that the city can function as smoothly as the luxury symbols it puts on display.

Concerns are growing over misdiagnosis in Zimbabwe as rapid expansion of medical laboratories outpaces regulation ( image source ) WHEN Magawa fell ill, she trusted the diagnosis she was given until it nearly cost her life. After more than two weeks on prescribed medication, her condition worsened significantly. A second set of blood tests, conducted at a different laboratory, revealed the initial diagnosis was incorrect. “I tasted death,” she said. “It turned out I didn’t have a kidney problem at all — just a minor urinary infection.” Her ordeal reflects growing concerns among patients and medical professionals over inconsistent laboratory test results in Zimbabwe’s rapidly expanding diagnostic sector. Zimbabwe’s laboratory capacity grew sharply during the Covid-19 pandemic. By December 2020, the Ministry of Health and Child Care had licensed 29 private laboratories for Covid-19 testing, bringing the total number of approved centres to 58 across public, private and NGO sectors. By mid-2021, hundreds of smaller clinics were offering rapid tests, filling a critical gap but also exposing systemic weaknesses. Some facilities lacked trained personnel, validated equipment and quality assurance systems, prompting the ministry to warn that results from unauthorised laboratories would be deemed invalid under the Health Professions Act. Post-pandemic, many of these laboratories expanded into broader diagnostic services, but concerns have persisted. Alois Muzvaba, a medical doctor and member of the Zimbabwe Hospital Doctors Association, said questionable results are now routine. “I receive two to three questionable results every day,” he said. “When laboratory findings don’t align with the clinical picture, we are forced to request retests, which delays treatment and increases costs for patients.” Zimbabwe currently has more than 170 formally registered diagnostic centres, while the Health Professions Authority says over 3 500 health institutions are registered nationwide, with 667 new facilities added in 2025 alone. Doctors say regulation has struggled to keep pace. Dr Moyo, a Harare-based private practitioner, said inconsistencies are more common among smaller laboratories, though larger ones are not immune. “Repeated discrepancies point to poor standards of practice,” he said. “Patients often end up paying twice for the same test.” Cost pressures further complicate the problem. A single urea and electrolytes (U&E) test can cost anywhere between US$10 and US$25, pushing patients towards cheaper options that may compromise quality. Laboratory experts warn that some pricing models are unrealistic. “You cannot charge US$5 for a full blood count when reagents alone cost US$7,” Muzvaba said. “That suggests shortcuts.” Meanwhile, public hospitals remain under-resourced, with studies indicating that 92% of primary-level public facilities lack full laboratory services, forcing patients into the private sector. Although government has launched a National Health Laboratory Strategic Plan (2025–2030) aimed at improving accreditation and oversight, experts caution that without adequate funding, staffing and enforcement, the risk of misdiagnosis will remain high. For patients like Magawa, the consequences are deeply personal. “I no longer trust test results,” she said. “I always seek a second opinion, because my life depends on it.”

CCC MP Chalton Hwende warns Parliament that low pay and underfunded training for Zimbabwe’s security forces pose a serious risk to public safety and national security ( image source ) HARARE – Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) legislator Chalton Hwende has warned that poor remuneration for Zimbabwe’s security forces is not merely a welfare concern but a direct threat to public safety and national security. Speaking during parliamentary debate on budgetary allocations to the Ministry of Defence, Hwende criticised the State for prioritising equipment and logistics while neglecting the wellbeing of soldiers, police officers and prison staff. “The first thing that I would like to speak to, before even going to fuel, vehicles and other allocations, is the welfare of workers within the Ministry of Defence,” Hwende said. “These soldiers, police officers and prison officers are the ones who walk around with AK-47s. If you underpay them, you are putting our lives at risk.” Hwende warned that frustration among poorly paid armed personnel could have dangerous consequences. “When they get cross, we will run away even from this august House,” he said, drawing murmurs from fellow legislators. He highlighted stark regional pay disparities, noting that soldiers in South Africa earn about US$1 200 per month, while their Zambian counterparts earn close to US$500. “In Zimbabwe, they struggle to earn about US$200, before deductions,” Hwende said. “After IMTT and other deductions, it is reduced to peanuts.” Hwende also questioned whether government ministers were respecting resolutions adopted by their own party, referencing a ZANU PF Congress resolution calling for improved remuneration for uniformed forces. Addressing Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube, he said: “I was expecting that you would listen to your own party conference. Just like the national anthem calls for unity and sacrifice, your party resolved that these workers should be paid fully.” Beyond salaries, Hwende raised concerns over funding for training, revealing that the Ministry of Defence had received only 5.5% of the requested allocation for capacity building. “That simply means you end up with uniformed forces that are not properly trained,” he said. “You cannot partially train a soldier. It’s either full training or none at all.” He argued that underfunding training undermines professionalism and discipline, weakening national security at a time of rising regional instability and internal pressures. Hwende’s remarks add to growing concerns over public sector remuneration, with analysts warning that sustained neglect of security-sector welfare risks eroding morale, professionalism and public trust.

The Zimbabwe Community Trailblazers Awards in Harare honoured journalists, broadcasters and community leaders for grassroots impact ( image source ) On a Friday night in Harare, community leaders, media practitioners and social innovators gathered to honour Zimbabweans whose impact is often felt far from the spotlight. The Zimbabwe Community Trailblazers Awards (ZCTA) recognised individuals and institutions driving positive change at grassroots level, highlighting the role of quiet, consistent effort in national development. Held at Pandari Lodge in Glen Lorne, the ceremony brought together representatives from government, media, civil society and the private sector. The evening combined celebration with reflection, underscored by performances from local artists and a shared emphasis on community-centred impact. Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere, acting Zimpapers Group Editorial Executive Elias Mambo said Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 ambitions could only be realised if communities remained active participants in development. He commended the awards for spotlighting individuals and organisations making tangible contributions at local level, noting that sustainable progress begins within communities. Award recipients represented a broad cross-section of society, including journalists, broadcasters, social entrepreneurs, community organisers and public servants. Journalists Elias Mambo, Trust Khosa and Liberty Dube were recognised for their professional contributions to public discourse, while media personality Mai Titi, Leane Lombard and the Emergence Help Team were honoured for community-focused initiatives. One of the most emotional moments of the night came with the posthumous recognition of the late Kiran Jack, whose award was received by his mother alongside members of the fire service. The moment drew sustained applause, reflecting the deep personal stories behind public service and sacrifice. The Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) emerged as one of the most recognised institutions, with several executives, journalists and presenters receiving honours. Radio Zimbabwe station manager Siphelani Chikwape said the awards reflected the broadcaster’s commitment to staying connected to communities, particularly in rural areas. ZBC television reporter Fungai Jachi said her award belonged to the entire newsroom, describing journalism as a collective effort rooted in service to the public. National FM presenter Soneni Sibanda was recognised for Indigenous Languages Journalism, highlighting the role of broadcasting in preserving cultural identity. ZBC chief executive officer Sugar Chagonda received an award as a Distinguished Communications Leader, while Colette Musanyera was honoured for excellence in television news. Hurungwe East Member of Parliament Chenjerai Kangausaru said his recognition reinforced the importance of uplifting rural communities and supporting the girl child. Beyond individual accolades, the ZCTA carried a broader message about development being driven by people on the ground. By celebrating local leadership, service and community impact, the awards reaffirmed that national transformation is often built quietly, from the ground up.

More than 500 youths gathered in Harare for a United Apostolic Faith Church conference, pledging to combat child marriage, gender-based violence and substance abuse through community action ( image source ) More than 500 youths drawn from all ten provinces converged in Harare for a national conference organised by the United Apostolic Faith Church, pledging to take active roles in confronting social challenges such as child marriages, gender-based violence and substance abuse. Convened under the leadership of Archbishop Busani Sibanda, the gathering positioned young people as key agents of social transformation amid rising youth-related vulnerabilities in Zimbabwe. Addressing the conference, Archbishop Sibanda urged participants to move beyond rhetoric and assume responsibility for shaping their communities. He called on youths to become ambassadors of positive change and to stand firmly against injustices undermining society. The message was met with strong affirmation from participants, many of whom made personal commitments to act within their respective communities. Youth pastor Shandirayi Mupfurutsa pledged to confront child marriage and support survivors of gender-based violence, saying young leaders could not remain silent while children’s futures were compromised. Brian Moyo (21), a delegate from Bulawayo, committed to taking a strong stand against drug and substance abuse, describing it as a growing threat in urban and peri-urban areas. Youth leader Linety Mukutirwa emphasised peer-to-peer education, noting that young people were best placed to reach and support others struggling with addiction without resorting to stigma. Delegates also pledged to collaborate with government programmes addressing social challenges, highlighting the importance of partnerships between faith-based institutions, families and public authorities. Archbishop Sibanda commended the youths’ resolve, describing the conference as a moment of hope and renewal. He said sustained action and collective effort were essential to building communities rooted in dignity, responsibility and inclusion, as the conference concluded with a call for ongoing engagement beyond the event.