By Southerton Business Times | Masvingo, Zimbabwe | August 9, 2026 POLICE have deployed drones, tracker dogs and large numbers of officers across Masvingo as the manhunt intensifies for two high-profile prisoners who escaped from Mutimurefu Prison on Saturday. The fugitives are Tafadzwa Janyure Zimirenyika, 27, and James Masunda, 34, who escaped from the correctional facility on August 8. Zimbabwe Republic Police national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that a manhunt had been launched for the two men, who authorities have described as dangerous. Sources said police have maintained a round-the-clock operation across the province as officers search for the fugitives. The deployment reportedly includes drones and tracker dogs, with officers checking possible routes and areas where the two men could be hiding. Alleged tuckshop robbery after escape Reports from other sources allege that the fugitives robbed a tuckshop at Zano on the same night they escaped. The circumstances surrounding the alleged robbery, including what was reportedly taken and whether anyone was injured, could not immediately be independently verified. Police have not publicly confirmed the alleged robbery. The reported development has nevertheless heightened concern among residents as authorities attempt to establish the movements of the fugitives following their escape. How the prisoners allegedly escaped Sources said the two prisoners allegedly used a hacksaw to cut burglar bars on a cell window before making their way out of the prison. They reportedly escaped over the prison perimeter wall. Further reports allege that a prison officer attempted to shoot at the fleeing prisoners but that the firearm jammed. Another prison officer was reportedly injured when he accidentally shot himself in the foot while a tactical team was preparing to pursue the escapees. The injured officer was reportedly taken to Masvingo Provincial Hospital for treatment. These details had not been independently verified by Southerton Business Times at the time of publication. CID chief visits prison Sources also said Criminal Investigations Department national head Commissioner Chrispen Charumbira visited Mutimurefu Prison following the escape. The reported visit comes as investigators seek to establish how the prisoners breached security and whether anyone assisted them. Questions are also likely to focus on the security measures in place at the prison and the circumstances surrounding the alleged use of a hacksaw. Witnesses fear for their safety The escape has also raised concerns about the safety of people who testified against Zimirenyika in previous criminal cases. Zimirenyika was serving a life sentence following his conviction for serious offences, while also facing other cases in the High Court. Sources said some witnesses and complainants who were involved in cases against him were now concerned about their safety. Zimirenyika's escape is reportedly his second attempt to flee custody. Sources said he previously attempted to escape while returning from court but was pursued and apprehended by prison officers. Masunda is reportedly serving a 24-year prison sentence in connection with robbery-related offences. Manhunt continues Police have urged members of the public to exercise caution and immediately report any information that could help locate the fugitives. Authorities are expected to continue searching across Masvingo while investigators work to determine exactly how the escape occurred. The alleged robbery at Zano, the reported firearm incidents and the circumstances surrounding the prisoners' escape remain subject to investigation. Members of the public are advised not to approach or attempt to apprehend the fugitives themselves if they are spotted, but to alert the police immediately. Masvingo prison escape

By Southerton Business Times | Gweru, Zimbabwe AUTHORITIES have intensified road safety and crime prevention operations across Zimbabwe ahead of the Heroes and Defence Forces holidays, amid concerns over rising road accidents, substance abuse and holiday-related crime. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), in partnership with the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ), launched a road safety awareness campaign in Gweru on Saturday aimed at reducing accidents and promoting responsible behaviour during one of the country's busiest travel periods. The campaign comes as thousands of Zimbabweans prepare to travel to attend national commemorations, visit relatives and participate in holiday activities. Police say the initiative combines public education with enhanced law enforcement operations targeting dangerous driving, drunk driving, illegal transportation of alcohol and other criminal activities often associated with holiday periods. Motorists call for responsible driving Motorists welcomed the campaign and urged road users to prioritise safety as traffic volumes increase across the country. One motorist said drivers should exercise patience and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on long journeys. “During these holidays, we are travelling long distances, so motorists need to be patient, avoid speeding and make sure their vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on a journey,” the motorist said. Another road user warned against driving under the influence of alcohol. “We want to enjoy the holidays safely. People should avoid drinking and driving, and passengers should also speak up when a driver is speeding or driving recklessly,” the motorist said. Travellers also raised concerns about security risks during the holiday period. “Crime can also increase during busy holiday periods, so we encourage people to look after their property and report suspicious activities to the police,” another motorist added. Concerns were also raised about the growing impact of drug and substance abuse among young people. “Drug and substance abuse is a serious concern, especially among young people. We need communities and parents to work together to stop this problem,” another motorist said. Police step up enforcement ZRP Officer Commanding Midlands Province, Commissioner Patson Nyabadza, said police had deployed officers across the province to enforce traffic regulations and combat crime. “We are engaging stakeholders, particularly motorists and the public in general, to take safety seriously and take measures to safeguard their property,” Nyabadza said. “We are also urging motorists to observe road rules and regulations, avoid reckless driving and other risky behaviour that could potentially result in accidents.” He said police officers were conducting alcohol tests on motorists where necessary and mounting roadblocks to detect illegal activities. “We are also conducting roadblocks to ensure that there is no transportation of unapproved alcohol and other illicit beverages,” he said. Nyabadza added that police teams had also been deployed to target illegal alcohol outlets and unlicensed drinking establishments. Rising holiday accident figures The campaign follows a significant increase in road traffic accidents recorded during last year's Heroes and Defence Forces holidays. According to police statistics, 196 road traffic accidents were recorded during the 2025 holiday period, compared to 149 accidents during the same period in 2024. Road fatalities also increased, rising from 16 deaths in 2024 to 24 deaths in 2025. Authorities hope increased enforcement, public awareness campaigns and responsible behaviour by motorists will help reverse the trend during this year's commemorations. Police have urged travellers to obey traffic laws, avoid speeding, refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol and remain vigilant against criminal activities while travelling. With traffic volumes expected to rise over the coming days, authorities say road safety remains everyone's responsibility. Zimbabwe road safety campaign

By Southerton Business Times | Mana Pools, Zimbabwe ZIMBABWE’S Mana Pools National Park has once again showcased its appeal as a premier African wilderness destination after South African overlanding and 4x4 expedition company Trans Africa Self Drive Adventures and Tours ventured into the remote Zambezi Valley. The company's founders, George van Deventer and Marlene Hurter, explored Mana Pools, one of Zimbabwe's most celebrated wildlife destinations, located along the Zambezi River in the country's north. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mana Pools is renowned for its expansive floodplains, natural pools, forests and abundant wildlife. The park offers visitors an opportunity to experience what many safari destinations increasingly struggle to provide: a wilderness environment where wildlife and people share an exceptionally natural landscape. A raw African wilderness Mana Pools is characterised by four permanent pools that give the park its name, together with broad floodplains and stands of winterthorn trees. During the dry season, the landscape becomes a magnet for wildlife as animals move towards remaining sources of water. Elephants, hippos, buffalo, lions, wild dogs and numerous antelope species are among the wildlife associated with the Mana Pools ecosystem. The area's relatively remote character has helped preserve its reputation as an authentic African safari destination, attracting visitors looking for experiences beyond conventional game drives. Unlike many fenced safari facilities, parts of Mana Pools offer an unusually intimate wilderness experience, with wildlife moving freely through the park and around campsites and safari lodges. For experienced overlanders, the destination also provides the opportunity to combine wildlife viewing with remote travel and self-drive adventure. Adventure beyond the game drive Mana Pools offers a range of activities designed around its unique riverine ecosystem. Visitors can take part in guided walking safaris, allowing them to experience the bush on foot rather than from a vehicle. Canoeing along the Zambezi provides another way to explore the area, offering opportunities to observe wildlife from the water while experiencing the river's vast landscape. Remote camps and safari lodges provide accommodation for visitors seeking different levels of comfort, from traditional wilderness camping to luxury safari experiences. The combination of walking, canoeing, game viewing and 4x4 travel makes Mana Pools particularly attractive to adventure travellers and overlanding enthusiasts. Growing appeal for regional tourists The visit by the South African expedition company highlights the potential of regional tourism and cross-border overlanding to contribute to Zimbabwe's tourism sector. South African travellers have long been an important market for Zimbabwe's self-drive and adventure tourism industry, with destinations such as Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park and Mana Pools offering different experiences. For overlanders, Mana Pools presents the added attraction of travelling deep into one of Southern Africa's most remote wilderness areas. The destination's location along the Zambezi also places it within a broader regional tourism circuit connecting Zimbabwe with Zambia and other destinations in Southern Africa. As interest in experiential and nature-based tourism grows, destinations such as Mana Pools offer Zimbabwe an opportunity to market not only wildlife but also adventure, conservation and authentic wilderness experiences. For travellers seeking an African safari away from heavily developed tourism environments, Mana Pools remains one of Zimbabwe's most distinctive destinations. South African 4x4 expedition founders George van Deventer and Marlene Hurter explore Mana Pools, a UNESCO-listed wilderness on Zimbabwe’s Zambezi River. Focus keyword:Mana Pools Zimbabwe

By Southerton Business Times | Hwedza, Zimbabwe | August 9, 2026 THE Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has arrested a Hwedza villager accused of illegally selling and allocating State land for US$1,300 in a case highlighting the growing crackdown on so-called “Sabhuku Deals”. ZACC said Cephas Ndudzo was arrested after allegedly selling and allocating a portion of State land in Ndudzo Village, Hwedza Growth Point, to Courage Chemhere for US$1,300. According to the anti-corruption body, the alleged transaction took place between October 31 and November 16, 2025, without authorisation from the Hwedza Rural District Council. Investigations allegedly established that the land belongs to the State and had been reserved for the future expansion of Hwedza Growth Point. Ndudzo appeared before the Hwedza Magistrates' Court and was remanded out of custody on free bail until August 12, 2026. He has not been convicted and is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. What are Sabhuku Deals? The case comes amid growing Government concern over informal land transactions commonly referred to as “Sabhuku Deals”. The term generally refers to situations in which village heads, intermediaries or land dealers allegedly sell or allocate communal or State land to home-seekers without the approvals and documentation required by law. The practice has reportedly become a concern in some rural and peri-urban communities, where demand for residential stands has created opportunities for unscrupulous land dealers to target people desperate to secure homes. Authorities have repeatedly warned prospective home-builders against paying individuals for land without first verifying the property's ownership and obtaining the appropriate documentation. The Government has also warned that people who acquire land through unauthorised transactions can face eviction and may have difficulty recovering their money. Traditional leaders cannot sell State land The latest case has also renewed attention on the legal powers of traditional leaders in Zimbabwe's communal areas. While traditional leaders play an important role in administering customary matters and allocating land under applicable laws and customary systems, they do not have unrestricted authority to sell State land for personal financial gain. Government authorities have urged prospective land buyers to deal with legally recognised institutions and verify land ownership and allocation documents before making payments. The Ministry of Lands and related authorities are responsible for formal land administration and documentation, depending on the category and location of the land. Crackdown on illegal land sales The arrest forms part of a broader crackdown on alleged illegal land sales and allocations across Zimbabwe. The Zimbabwe Republic Police and Government authorities have previously warned against unauthorised land dealers who take advantage of home-seekers by selling land they have no legal authority to dispose of. The National Council of Chiefs has also called for action against traditional leaders involved in the illegal sale of communal land, arguing that communal land should not be treated as a commodity for personal enrichment. ZACC's latest case serves as a warning to both alleged land dealers and prospective buyers that unauthorised land transactions can have serious legal and financial consequences. Authorities are encouraging home-seekers to verify the ownership and legal status of land before making payments. The allegations against Ndudzo will now be tested through the courts as the case proceeds. Sabhuku Deals Zimbabwe ZACC has arrested a Hwedza villager accused of selling State land for US$1,300 without approval from the local authority.

By Southerton Business Times | Harare, Zimbabwe | August 9, 2026 POLICE in Harare have arrested two motorists for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol in separate incidents, as authorities intensify warnings against drink-driving on Zimbabwean roads. The two drivers, Edgar Sibanda, 26, and Donovan Denga, 45, were arrested by traffic police on Thursday in separate parts of the capital. In the first incident, officers from ZRP Warren Park Traffic arrested Sibanda after intercepting him at a roadblock along Highglen Road. Police said Sibanda was driving a Toyota Coaster carrying three passengers when he allegedly attempted to drive away from the checkpoint. Officers stopped the vehicle and subjected the driver to a breathalyser test, which allegedly indicated that he was driving under the influence of alcohol. It was not immediately clear whether the three passengers were affected by the incident or whether the vehicle was being operated as public transport. Second driver arrested after accident In a separate incident, Denga was arrested by ZRP Mabvuku Traffic after being involved in a minor road traffic accident. According to police, Denga was driving an Isuzu KB300 along Harare-Mutare Road near the National Oil Infrastructure Company (NOIC) when the accident occurred. He was subjected to a breathalyser test following the crash, which allegedly indicated that he was driving under the influence of alcohol. No serious injuries were reported in the incident. Police have continued to warn motorists against drinking and driving, saying alcohol impairs judgement, concentration and reaction times and can increase the risk of crashes. The latest arrests come as authorities continue road-safety campaigns targeting dangerous driving, particularly during periods of increased traffic. Drunk public transport driver jailed The Harare arrests come shortly after a 55-year-old public transport driver was sentenced to two years in prison after being convicted of driving a public service vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Admire Ndebele was convicted at the Beitbridge Magistrates' Court after he was allegedly caught driving a passenger-filled kombi while heavily intoxicated along the Bulawayo-Beitbridge Road. Police officers manning a roadblock reportedly became suspicious after seeing the vehicle meandering on the road. Ndebele was stopped and ordered to disembark, with officers reportedly observing signs that he was intoxicated. A breathalyser test allegedly recorded a blood alcohol level of 270 milligrams per 100 millilitres. He was subsequently convicted and sentenced to two years in prison. The case has renewed concerns about the dangers posed by drunk driving in Zimbabwe, particularly when intoxicated motorists transport passengers or operate vehicles on busy highways. Police have urged motorists to make alternative arrangements if they have consumed alcohol rather than risk driving. The latest arrests and convictions serve as a reminder that motorists found driving under the influence can face serious legal consequences. Both Sibanda and Denga are presumed innocent unless and until convicted by a court. Drink driving in Harare

By Southerton Business Times | Harare, Zimbabwe | August 9, 2026 A Harare-based Christian fellowship that combines prayer, Bible teaching and social interaction over beer is attracting growing interest, as its founder seeks to reach people who may feel disconnected from conventional church gatherings. Known as Dare reCastle, the fellowship was founded by Victor Mupoperi, popularly known online as the “Castle Man”, a content creator who promotes what he describes as responsible beer consumption while engaging with people from different backgrounds. The unusual fellowship combines Christian worship with a relaxed social environment, with participants gathering to pray, read Scripture, listen to a sermon and later socialise over drinks. Mupoperi, a professional Class 1 journeyman in refrigeration and air-conditioning and a livestock farmer, said the initiative was not about putting alcohol at the centre of Christianity. Instead, he said, Dare reCastle was created to demonstrate that people could maintain their relationship with God regardless of their lifestyle choices. “The concept is a movement which aims to encourage people that regardless of them drinking or not, God is still the centre of our lives,” Mupoperi said. He said the fellowship had received a positive response, with participants appreciating what he described as its relaxed and open atmosphere. “The people are accepting the word of God, and they really want more of these sessions as they are more relaxed and open than traditional church gatherings,” he said. How Dare reCastle started Mupoperi said the idea emerged unexpectedly after a church service. He said he was walking home when he passed a place where people were drinking and decided to engage them in a conversation about Christianity. “I enjoy drinking a Castle Lager occasionally. The name ‘Castle Man’ was initially given to me when I was walking home from church one day and passed a place where people were drinking and enjoying themselves,” he said. “After some thought, I joined them and decided to share the word of God with them. I told them that the following week, we would meet at the same place to talk about the word of God because you never know who might need it.” According to Mupoperi, only about five people attended the first gathering. The fellowship has since grown, with new people reportedly joining the weekly Sunday sessions. “We’ve even had people travelling from different parts of Zimbabwe to attend our weekly gatherings,” he said. Prayer before socialising Dare reCastle follows a structure similar to a conventional Christian gathering. The meetings begin with praise and worship, followed by Bible readings and a sermon delivered by a pastor. The social element comes afterwards, when participants share drinks, hold conversations and build friendships. For Mupoperi, this is what makes the fellowship different from traditional church settings. He argues that Christian outreach should not necessarily be confined to conventional places of worship and believes people can encounter faith in everyday social environments. The concept nevertheless sits at an unusual intersection of Christian fellowship and alcohol consumption, a combination likely to attract both interest and debate among Zimbabwean Christians. Mupoperi insists that alcohol is not the focus of the gatherings. Instead, he says, Dare reCastle is about creating a space where people can discuss faith openly while maintaining social connections. As the fellowship continues to attract new participants, its unconventional approach raises a broader question about how churches and Christian movements can engage people who may not feel comfortable in traditional religious spaces. For Mupoperi, the answer is simple: meet people where they are, build relationships and keep God at the centre of the conversation. Dare reCastle

Tafadzwa Janyure Zimirenyika and James Masunda wanted after escaping Mutimurefu Prison By Southerton Business Times | Masvingo, Zimbabwe POLICE have launched a manhunt for two prisoners who escaped from Mutimurefu Prison in Masvingo, with authorities warning members of the public to exercise extreme caution when approaching the fugitives. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) identified the escapees as Tafadzwa Janyure Zimirenyika, 27, and James Masunda, 34, who reportedly escaped from the correctional facility on Saturday, August 8, 2026. The ZRP is appealing to members of the public to provide information that could lead to the arrest of the two men. “Anyone with information about their whereabouts is urged to report to the nearest police station,” the police said in an appeal. Members of the public can also contact the ZRP National Complaints Desk on (0242) 703631 or send information via WhatsApp to 0712 800 107. Janyure is reportedly serving a life sentence following his conviction on serious criminal charges, including murder, while he is also facing other matters before the courts. Earlier police investigations linked Janyure to 203 alleged criminal cases across Masvingo Province, including robbery, kidnapping, rape, theft of motor vehicles and malicious damage to property. Police previously said the alleged offences occurred in areas including Mwenezi, Ngundu, Renco, Muchakata and Zaka. Janyure was arrested in June 2025 following investigations into the cases. At the time, police also linked him to a murder case involving Jacob Museva, who was allegedly fatally struck with a mattock at Lundi Business Centre in Mwenezi after attempting to intervene during a robbery. The earlier reports described Janyure as being 29 at the time of his arrest, while the latest ZRP appeal identifies him as 27. Masunda, 34, also escaped from Mutimurefu Prison, according to the police appeal. Information supplied to Southerton Business Times indicates that the two prisoners had attended court proceedings in Masvingo before the escape. Janyure was reportedly facing another robbery matter, while Masunda was allegedly attending court in connection with a separate case in which he was a witness. The circumstances surrounding how the two men breached prison security had not been fully disclosed by authorities at the time of publication. Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services national spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Meya Khanyezi reportedly confirmed that an escape had occurred at Mutimurefu Prison but said she was awaiting full details. Police warn public Police have urged anyone who sees either of the fugitives not to attempt to apprehend them. Authorities are instead asking members of the public to immediately report sightings or information about their whereabouts to the nearest police station. The escape has triggered a manhunt for the two Mutimurefu Prison fugitives as police and correctional authorities work to establish how they breached security at the facility. Further details about the escape, including the circumstances surrounding the security breach and the exact time the two prisoners fled, were not immediately available. Southerton Business Times will update this story as police release further information. Anyone with information about Tafadzwa Janyure Zimirenyika or James Masunda should contact the nearest police station, the ZRP National Complaints Desk on (0242) 703631, or WhatsApp 0712 800 107. Mutimurefu Prison escape

By Southerton Business Times | Harare, Zimbabwe GLEN LORNE residents have appealed to Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe to immediately halt activities at a disputed cluster housing development on Lytham Road, amid allegations of unauthorised earthworks, borehole drilling and environmental damage near the Umwinsi River. The residents say developer Zhuomu International (Pvt) Ltd has continued working on the proposed development despite alleged government directives to suspend activities while outstanding planning, environmental and regulatory issues are resolved. In a letter to Garwe, copied to Environment, Climate and Wildlife Minister Evelyn Ndlovu, the Office of the President and Cabinet, the City of Harare, the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) and parliamentary portfolio committees, residents warned of what they described as the risk of “irreversible environmental harm”. The appeal follows a meeting convened by Garwe on August 3 involving the developer, EMA, ZINWA, the City of Harare, Nyaguvi Sub-Catchment Council and residents' representatives. A ministry invitation seen by Southerton Business Times said the meeting was convened to discuss the proposed gated cluster housing development on Stand 4717, Glen Lorne Township. Residents allege officials instructed the developer to stop work pending resolution of outstanding legal and regulatory matters. However, the publication could not independently verify what was said during the meeting, and no official minutes had been released at the time of publication. Dispute over 89-unit development The controversy centres on a proposed 89-unit cluster housing development on Stand 4717. A City of Harare public notice issued under the Regional, Town and Country Planning Act invited members of the public to submit objections to the proposed development. Residents allege that the notice was published after boreholes had already been drilled and indigenous trees cleared at the site. They further claim that 452 written objections were eventually acknowledged by authorities, reflecting what they described as substantial community opposition. The residents also dispute aspects of the environmental assessment process. They acknowledge EMA's reported assessment that about 70 percent of the property is non-wetland while 30 percent is classified as wetland. However, they allege EMA Director General indicated during a July 10 site meeting that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) permit had been revoked for review. These claims could not independently be verified. Boreholes and Umwinsi River concerns Residents further allege that Permanent Secretary for Presidential Affairs and Devolution Tafadzwa Muguti instructed the developer to stop work during a site inspection and ordered nine boreholes to be sealed. They allege that one of the boreholes is approximately 15 metres from the Umwinsi River and was drilled without the required permits. Residents say recent video footage allegedly shows some boreholes continuing to pump water despite the reported directive. One resident, who requested anonymity, described the situation as an environmental emergency. “This has become an environmental disaster unfolding before our eyes. Government officials instructed that the works stop, the illegal boreholes be sealed and the environmental concerns be addressed. Instead, activities have continued, trees have been destroyed and the Umwinsi River remains under threat,” the resident said. Another resident said the dispute was not opposition to development but concern over Harare's water resources. “Glen Lorne, Greystone Park and Hatcliffe have never had reliable water. We’ve been waiting for years for Kunzvi Dam to be built,” the resident said. “This wetland they want to build on, even if it is only part of it, will affect the flow of water into Kunzvi Dam when it is built.” Residents warn of legal action Residents also allege that earthworks have extended beyond the proposed development area, including grading on adjoining land and activity close to the Umwinsi River. They further claim soil may have been dumped into the river and that hundreds of indigenous trees have been cleared. The Forestry Commission is reportedly investigating the alleged tree clearance, although this could not be independently confirmed. Residents also fear the proposed perimeter wall could interfere with stormwater movement and increase flooding risks along Lytham Road and neighbouring properties. They have urged authorities to enforce any previous stop-work directives and ensure that all planning, environmental and water-related requirements are satisfied before construction resumes. The residents warned that they could approach the High Court for urgent relief to preserve the status quo if the alleged activities continue. A separate allegation that some officials may have been compromised was made by a resident but was not supported by evidence and could not be independently verified. Zhuomu International (Pvt) Ltd could not immediately be reached for comment. EMA, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, the Forestry Commission and the City of Harare had also not responded to the residents' latest allegations by the time of publication. The dispute highlights the growing tension between urban housing development, wetland protection and water security in Harare, as authorities face increasing pressure to balance housing demand with environmental protection and planning regulations. Glen Lorne housing development

By Southerton Business Times | Harare, Zimbabwe | August 8, 2026 HARARE residents and motorists have been urged not to panic as soldiers and military equipment move through parts of the capital during rehearsals for the 2026 Defence Forces Day celebrations. The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) said military personnel and equipment will be travelling through the city from Saturday, August 8, to Tuesday, August 11, as part of preparations for this year's Defence Forces Day commemorations. The rehearsal procession will move from Charles Gumbo Barracks to Rufaro Stadium, where the main celebrations will be held. Military convoy to use major Harare roads According to the ZDF, the movement will begin at Charles Gumbo Barracks, formerly known as 1 Commando Regiment. From the barracks, the procession will travel along Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Expressway, previously known as Airport Road. The route will then proceed onto Vitalis Zvinavashe Road, formerly Dieppe Avenue, before continuing along Cripps Road and Remembrance Drive towards Rufaro Stadium. Residents and motorists using the affected roads are therefore likely to encounter soldiers, military vehicles and other equipment during the rehearsal period. The planned movement could also result in temporary disruptions or slower traffic along sections of the route as the military procession makes its way towards the stadium. ZDF urges public not to panic The Zimbabwe Defence Forces said the military presence in the city is part of routine preparations for the annual national commemorations. In a statement issued on Friday, August 7, the ZDF urged members of the public to remain calm. “The general public is, therefore, urged not to panic, but rather join and celebrate together with the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.” The rehearsals are expected to continue through Tuesday, when Zimbabwe will mark Defence Forces Day 2026. Defence Forces Day is an annual national event that provides an opportunity to recognise members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and their contribution to national security and public service. The movement of military personnel and equipment through Harare is therefore expected to increase as the country prepares for this year's commemorations. Motorists urged to plan ahead Motorists travelling along Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Expressway, Vitalis Zvinavashe Road, Cripps Road and Remembrance Drive have been encouraged to take note of the scheduled rehearsals and allow additional time for their journeys. Residents living along the route are also likely to see increased military activity during the four-day rehearsal period. The ZDF has sought to reassure the public that the movements are linked to Defence Forces Day preparations and urged residents to remain calm. Further announcements may be issued if there are changes to the rehearsal arrangements or traffic management measures. Southerton Business Times will provide updates on traffic movements and Defence Forces Day activities as more information becomes available. Harare military convoy

Marondera residents cutting the ribbon along with Eyeroom Optometrists officials to officially open the company's twelfth branch in Marondera, aimed at reducing vision loss in Mashonaland East. Staff Reporter The Marondera community has gained a state-of-the-art eyecare clinic, marking a significant step in expanding access to specialized, affordable eye health services across Mashonaland East province. This key development comes as leading provider The Eyeroom Optometrists officially opened its twelfth branch in Marondera under a private sector healthcare initiative aimed at reducing preventable blindness and improving community health. The programme directly complements Government efforts to achieve universal health coverage under Zimbabwe's Vision 2030, while local beneficiaries say the modern optometry clinic is already transforming lives. One of the first beneficiaries, Ms Chantel Muramatini, expressed deep gratitude for the free eye screening services offered at the official opening. She said the clinic was a timely intervention, offering both affordability and accessibility to local residents. “We are very happy we have the eye clinic that has just opened, and it is very beneficial to us because they are offering free eye testing right now," she said. “They have very affordable frames and optical lenses, and it is going to benefit the Marondera community in so many ways.” Local faith leader Pastor Stanley Nyagope highlighted the advanced diagnostic technology and the broader community impact of accessible vision care. "I was looking at the digital testing systems there and the medical technology that they are having; you cannot believe it that it is now here in Marondera. It is some excellent work to actually improve our sight so that we can see clearly.” He added, “It enhances vision and gives us clarity of vision, aligning us to purpose and even to the vision of the nation. We are so thankful for The Eyeroom and for what they have brought here.” In his sentiment, The Eyeroom Optometrists CEO Dr Isaac Alormele emphasised that the new branch represented far more than a corporate expansion. He said it is an extension of their core medical mission. “Today, we do more than open another branch, we extend a vision," said Dr Alormele. "Our purpose remains unchanged: to protect sight, transform lives, and redefine the standard of optometric eye care in Zimbabwe.” The Eyeroom Optometrists Director of Sales and Marketing, Miss Linda Mhindu, emphasised the company’s strong alignment with national healthcare priorities. "We are in full alignment with the Vision 2030 National Health Strategy launched this year in July by our Ministry of Health and Child Care," said Miss Mhindu. “We are going to be offering comprehensive eye care services with state-of-the-art equipment, stylish frames, and very affordable options for everyone." The launch of The Eyeroom Optometrists in Marondera demonstrates how private sector healthcare investments can effectively complement government medical strategies, ensuring rural and urban communities gain equal access to essential health services. Eyeroom Optometrists Marondera eyecare clinic

Philanthropist Dr Justice Mhishi and Shamva North MP Isaac Chinodakufa handing over wheelchairs and sewing machines to beneficiaries at Nyamaropa Primary School. Staff Reporter People living with disabilities in Mashonaland Central received mobility wheelchairs and sewing machines from philanthropist Dr Justice Mhishi, a donation that highlighted community empowerment and social inclusion in Shamva North. The official handover ceremony held at Nyamaropa Primary School was honoured by Shamva North legislator Hon Isaac Chinodakufa, local community members, traditional leaders, and beneficiaries, underscoring how practical assistive tools can restore dignity, reduce caregiving burdens on families, and open sustainable pathways to self-reliance. This initiative follows previous charitable donations by Dr Mhishi to enhance physical mobility for persons with disabilities (PWDs) and create income-generating opportunities through practical vocational skills training. Under the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), disability inclusion is prioritized as a core cross-cutting pillar aiming to transition Zimbabwe to an upper-middle-income economy, actively empowering persons with disabilities to participate fully in national economic and social development. Speaking on the sidelines on Friday, Dr Mhishi emphasised that the wheelchairs and sewing equipment were not just physical items, but vital instruments of hope, dignity, and economic independence. “Wheelchairs restore mobility, sewing machines create opportunity for self-reliance," said Dr Mhishi. “I have come to support the vision and the mantra of the President, who reminds us to leave no one and no place behind." He reminded the gathering that physical disability is not a choice and that social exclusion directly undermines national growth. “No one chooses disability and no one should be excluded because of disability. Every person deserves respect, equal opportunity, and a chance to fulfill their God-given purpose,” he said. These community developments support the country's socio-economic goals and the visionary mantra of His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who continues to remind the nation to leave no person and no place behind. In his sentiments, Shamva North legislator Hon Isaac Chinodakufa highlighted the broader socio-economic impact of the donation towards his constituency. He said that local empowerment initiatives strengthen rural communities and align directly with national development targets. “This gesture shows that inclusion is not just a slogan, but a lived reality," said Hon Chinodakufa. "When persons with disabilities are empowered, the whole community benefits." Expressing profound gratitude, one of the beneficiaries noted how the wheelchairs would ease physical burdens on caregivers and allow PWDs to participate more fully in daily community life. "These wheelchairs bring us immense happiness and relieve mothers of the heavy burden of carrying older children and disabled adults," the beneficiary shared. “Now we can move around freely and do things for ourselves.” Dr Justice Mhishi disability empowerment Shamva North

By Southerton Business Times | Harare, Zimbabwe | August 8, 2026 A Harare magistrate has ordered medical examinations for two accused persons who allegedly told the court they were assaulted by police during their arrest in a drug-related case. Kelsea Tadiwa Tafirenyika and her maternal uncle, Isaac Arab Jessub, reportedly made the allegations during their court appearance after defence lawyers claimed the pair had been severely beaten by officers from the CID Drugs and Narcotics section. The alleged assault is said to have occurred during a police raid at Tafirenyika's home in Greystone Park, Harare. According to the defence, the two accused were assaulted by the officers, had their mobile phones confiscated and were allegedly forced to sign documents relating to items seized during the operation. The investigating officer, however, denied the allegations of assault. Magistrate privately examines alleged injuries The matter took a dramatic turn when the magistrate reportedly ordered members of the public to leave the courtroom before privately examining injuries that the accused claimed to have sustained during their arrest. Following the inspection, the magistrate ordered both Tafirenyika and Jessub to undergo medical examinations while in custody. The medical examinations could provide independent evidence regarding the alleged injuries and assist the court in determining the circumstances surrounding the accused persons' arrest and detention. The police have not, according to the information before the court, admitted to assaulting the accused. The allegations therefore remain contested between the defence and the investigating officer. Accused face drug charges The court also heard allegations concerning Tafirenyika's identity and business activities. She is accused of allegedly using a fake identity document in the name of Getrude Badza in connection with business activities. Tafirenyika and Jessub are also facing drug-related charges following the alleged recovery of pethidine, morphine and cannabis by police. The drugs are controlled substances, and possession or dealing in them can attract criminal charges under Zimbabwean law depending on the circumstances and applicable licences or authorisations. The accused persons have not been convicted of the offences and remain entitled to the presumption of innocence. Their defence is expected to challenge the State's case as proceedings continue. Bail ruling expected August 12 Tafirenyika and Jessub remain in custody while the court considers their bail application. A ruling on bail is expected on August 12. The medical examination ordered by the magistrate is likely to add another important dimension to the case, particularly if medical findings support or contradict the allegations made by the accused. For now, the alleged police assault remains disputed, while the court continues to consider the drug and identity-related allegations against the two accused. Southerton Business Times will update the story when the court delivers its bail ruling or when further evidence emerges concerning the alleged assault. alleged police assault in Harare