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Ariana Resources reports encouraging early drilling results at Zimbabwe’s Dokwe gold project ( image source ) Harare — Ariana Resources this week reported encouraging early signs from drilling at the Dokwe gold project in Zimbabwe, a development that could bolster investor interest and add momentum to the country’s mineral exploration landscape. Company updates indicate that initial drilling has intersected mineralised zones consistent with the project’s geological model, prompting cautious optimism among analysts and local stakeholders. Dokwe, located in a region with a history of artisanal and small-scale mining, has been the focus of renewed exploration as companies seek to expand Zimbabwe’s gold production base. Ariana’s programme combines reverse circulation and diamond drilling to test both near-surface oxide mineralisation and deeper primary targets. Early assay results, while still awaiting full laboratory confirmation, reportedly show anomalous gold values in several holes, suggesting continuity of mineralisation along targeted structures. The company stressed that exploration remains at an early stage and that a fuller interpretation will follow once all assays are finalised. Ariana’s technical team is undertaking detailed logging, geochemical sampling and structural analysis to refine targets and assess the potential scale and grade of the mineralised zones. Should subsequent results confirm the initial indications, the project could advance to resource-definition drilling and preliminary economic assessment phases. Local mining experts welcomed the update, noting that successful exploration at Dokwe could stimulate regional employment and supply-chain activity. Drilling programmes typically generate short-term jobs in logistics and site services, while any future development could support processing, transport and ancillary industries. Observers also emphasised the importance of responsible environmental management and sustained community engagement as exploration progresses. The update comes amid broader interest in Zimbabwe’s mineral sector, where gold remains a key export earner. Authorities have sought to attract investment by streamlining licensing processes and promoting value addition, while exploration companies have responded with renewed activity across greenstone belts and underexplored areas. Investors are now watching for detailed assay tables and a clear timeline for follow-up drilling. Analysts caution that early drilling success does not guarantee economic viability, with grade continuity, metallurgy, infrastructure access and capital requirements all critical determinants. Nonetheless, positive initial intersections can significantly de-risk a project and attract development partners. Ariana said further technical updates will be released as assays are received and interpreted. Meanwhile, the company continues to engage local authorities and communities to ensure exploration proceeds with appropriate social and environmental safeguards. If Dokwe’s early promise is confirmed, the project could become a meaningful addition to Zimbabwe’s gold portfolio, supporting jobs and mining revenues.

Econet’s E-Novate Expo showcased 5G, IoT, cloud and start-up innovation, highlighting Zimbabwe’s growing digital ecosystem, skills development drive and public-private partnerships shaping a tech-enabled future ( image source ) Harare — Econet Wireless Zimbabwe’s three-day E-Novate Expo at the Harare International Conference Centre offered a comprehensive showcase of the technologies and partnerships shaping the country’s digital future, drawing thousands of students, developers, entrepreneurs and industry leaders. The event blended product demonstrations, technical masterclasses, start-up showcases and policy dialogues, signalling a maturing tech ecosystem poised to scale. Major global vendors including Ericsson, Huawei, Samsung and ZTE anchored the exhibition, presenting advances in network infrastructure, 5G use cases, Internet of Things deployments and consumer devices. Ericsson highlighted its long-running partnership with Econet, tracing collaboration from 2G through to current 5G trials, and showcased solutions for network densification and enterprise connectivity. Huawei demonstrated cloud and edge-computing platforms aimed at enabling local digital services, while Samsung and ZTE focused on device affordability and ecosystem integration to widen access. Practical application emerged as a central theme. Live 5G demonstrations illustrated low-latency use cases for telemedicine, remote education and industrial automation. IoT exhibits featured smart-agriculture sensors and asset-tracking solutions with potential productivity gains for farming and logistics. Cloud providers hosted workshops on scalable architectures for start-ups, while cybersecurity panels addressed the growing need for data protection as services migrate online. Hackathons and developer tracks attracted strong participation from young innovators. Teams competed on challenges ranging from fintech inclusion to climate-resilient agriculture, supported by mentors from multinational firms and local incubators. Several start-ups secured follow-up meetings with venture partners and corporate innovation units, reinforcing the expo’s role as a bridge between ideas and capital. Speakers repeatedly underscored skills development and inclusive access. Ericsson’s Luis Martins called for sustained investment in digital literacy and vocational training to ensure infrastructure upgrades translate into jobs and entrepreneurship. Representatives from Huawei and Samsung echoed the need for affordable devices and localised content to drive adoption beyond urban centres. Government and regulatory panelists discussed spectrum policy, data governance and incentives to attract local cloud and data-centre investment. Public-private collaboration also featured prominently. Sessions on smart-city pilots, e-health roll-outs and digital identity frameworks examined how coordinated policy and private capital can accelerate service delivery. Health and education stakeholders shared pilot projects extending services into remote districts, while fintech leaders showcased mobile payment innovations reducing transaction costs for small businesses. For participants, the expo delivered tangible outcomes, including technical training certificates, investor introductions and prototype feedback. For the wider economy, observers said it signalled momentum around three critical pillars: reliable networks, affordable devices and a skilled workforce. Organisers plan to make E-Novate an annual fixture, expand regional participation and deepen industry tracks. As Zimbabwe positions itself to capture digital opportunities, the E-Novate Expo demonstrated that the country has the technical talent, corporate partnerships and entrepreneurial energy to move from promise to delivery. Sustaining investment, scaling pilots and ensuring inclusive, resilient growth will be the next test.

CCC MP Chalton Hwende calls for a delay to the 2026 Finance Bill debate, citing MPs’ unpaid dues and welfare concerns ahead of Christmas ( image source ) Harare — Kuwadzana East MP Chalton Hwende (CCC) on Thursday moved to delay debate on the proposed 2026 Finance Bill, arguing that the welfare of Members of Parliament has reached crisis levels and that many legislators face a bleak Christmas without urgent intervention. Hwende told the House that a planned joint caucus with Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube — meant to address outstanding MPs’ welfare concerns — had been postponed until after passage of the budget, leaving members without resources to travel or meet basic needs. He urged the Speaker to pause proceedings to allow MPs to engage the minister before the debate resumed. “Hon. Speaker, as we have previously stated, the situation among the Members of Parliament you lead is dire. There is hunger written all over their faces,” Hwende said. He added that the caucus had been promised since the Pre-Budget Seminar and warned that delaying it until after the Finance Bill’s passage would prejudice members who depend on timely disbursements. “We are approaching the Christmas holiday, and Members have no means of travelling. We have not been paid our dues,” Hwende said, insisting it would be unacceptable to enter 2026 without resolving welfare issues such as housing loans and allowances. The plea drew a sharp response from ZANU-PF Chief Whip Pupurai Togarepi, who accused Hwende of attempting to hold the government to ransom and of elevating MPs’ personal concerns above national interests. Togarepi said the majority had already mobilised funds for immediate relief — including 20 million for coupons and 25 million for members’ allowances — and that Constituency Development Fund (CDF) payments were expected to be completed by the end of the following week. “Mr Speaker, what Hon. Hwende is suggesting implies that we want to hold the government or the Minister to ransom,” Togarepi said, arguing that MPs’ welfare is regularly discussed through established channels and should not be used to delay national business. He warned that postponing the budget debate for internal matters would create a public perception that legislators prioritise their own interests over those of the electorate. The exchange underscored persistent tensions around parliamentary entitlements and the timing of payments, issues that have surfaced repeatedly in recent years. While some MPs continue to campaign for improved benefits and clearer payment schedules, others maintain that such concerns should be handled without disrupting legislative processes. At the time of reporting, no formal postponement had been granted. The Speaker is expected to rule on any request to adjourn or delay debate, as MPs await clarity on the timing and delivery of the promised payments ahead of the festive season.

Merck Foundation and Zimbabwe’s First Lady mark seven years of partnership focused on health worker training ( image source ) Harare — The Merck Foundation and Zimbabwe’s First Lady this week marked seven years of a strategic partnership focused on strengthening the country’s health workforce, supporting infertile women and advancing girls’ education. What began as a targeted capacity-building initiative has evolved into a multi-faceted programme with nationwide impact. Since its inception, the collaboration has prioritised training healthcare providers across key specialties, notably reproductive medicine, oncology and diabetes care. Through scholarships, hands-on training and institutional support, doctors, nurses and allied health professionals have acquired practical skills applicable across Zimbabwe’s public and private health facilities. The programme has also supported specialist modules and short courses aimed at closing critical service-delivery gaps. Support for infertile women has been a central pillar of the partnership. Initiatives have included awareness campaigns, subsidised diagnostic services and facilitated access to assisted reproductive technologies where appropriate. By pairing clinical care with community outreach, organisers say the programme has helped reduce stigma and encouraged earlier engagement with health services. Girls’ education remains another core focus. The partnership has funded scholarships, mentorship initiatives and vocational training to keep girls in school and equip them with marketable skills. These efforts address barriers such as early pregnancy, poverty and limited access to sanitary products, linking health, education and social support to improve long-term outcomes for young women. Officials cited measurable results over the seven-year period: thousands of healthcare workers trained, dozens of community awareness campaigns delivered and hundreds of girls supported through scholarships and mentorship. The Merck Foundation has also enabled study visits and exchanges exposing Zimbabwean practitioners to international best practice, while local institutions have received technical assistance to strengthen clinical governance and patient safety. Sustainability and local ownership were emphasised by both partners. The First Lady’s office has worked with the Ministry of Health and Child Care to integrate training into national continuing professional development frameworks, while the Merck Foundation has committed to phased handovers that build institutional capacity and ensure continuity beyond individual projects. Civil-society organisations and beneficiaries praised the partnership’s holistic approach, noting that combining clinical services with education and social support addresses root causes of poor reproductive health outcomes. Health analysts said the focus on specialist training — particularly in reproductive medicine and non-communicable diseases — aligns with national health priorities. Looking ahead, partners plan to scale up successful pilots, deepen collaboration with provincial health authorities and expand scholarship opportunities, while stressing the need for continued donor coordination and government commitment. As the anniversary was marked, both parties reaffirmed their shared commitment to improving health outcomes, empowering women and investing in the next generation.

China–Zimbabwe relations marked a major milestone in 2025 as the two countries celebrated 45 years of diplomatic ties ( image source ) Harare — The year 2025 has been hailed as a landmark in the long-standing relationship between Zimbabwe and China, marking 45 years of diplomatic ties and the formal elevation of bilateral relations to an All-Weather Community with a Shared Future. Officials from both countries say the milestone reflects deep historical solidarity while signalling a new phase of intensified economic cooperation, investment and cultural exchange. The anniversary year has been characterised by unprecedented high-level engagement. President Emmerson Mnangagwa undertook two official visits to China, while Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira travelled to Beijing on three occasions. Several other cabinet ministers also made official trips, reinforcing cooperation across sectors including infrastructure, energy, education and industry. Diplomats from both sides described the engagements as dynamic, underscoring a shared commitment to aligning development priorities. China remains Zimbabwe’s largest source of foreign direct investment. Data from the Zimbabwe Investment Development Agency shows that nearly 500 new Chinese businesses were registered in 2025 alone, with projected investments amounting to approximately US$2.5 billion. More than one-third of these investments are in manufacturing, a sector central to Zimbabwe’s industrialisation, value addition and beneficiation agenda. Large-scale projects are already reshaping the country’s industrial base. Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe in Mashonaland East is operating the country’s first lithium sulphate plant, with additional lithium processing facilities under development in Masvingo and Manicaland. In the Midlands province, the Dinson Iron and Steel Company has emerged as a flagship industrial project, alongside new cement and fertiliser plants across the country. These investments are contributing to job creation, tax revenues and the substitution of imports with locally produced goods. China’s global leadership in renewable energy is also reflected in Zimbabwe’s energy sector. Several Chinese-backed solar power projects currently under construction are expected to add more than 1,000 megawatts to the national grid by 2028, supporting energy security and the country’s transition toward cleaner power sources. Trade between the two countries continues to deepen. Tobacco exports to China, valued at close to US$800 million annually, sustain the livelihoods of an estimated half a million Zimbabweans. In addition, horticultural products such as citrus, blueberries and avocados are gaining access to the Chinese market. Beijing’s announcement of zero-tariff treatment for exports from 53 African countries, including Zimbabwe, is expected to further expand market access and stimulate local production. Strategic alignment of development frameworks has also strengthened cooperation. China’s forthcoming 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030) closely dovetails with Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 2. During the previous planning cycle, bilateral trade doubled from US$1.9 billion in 2021 to US$3.8 billion in 2024, while more than 1,400 Chinese investors registered businesses in Zimbabwe. Major completed projects include Hwange Power Station Units 7 and 8, the expansion of Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, NetOne’s National Broadband Phase III, the New Parliament Building and the National Pharmaceutical Warehouse. Looking ahead, officials have encouraged greater participation by Chinese enterprises and Zimbabwean partners in infrastructure development, energy generation, digital transformation and skills development. The Chinese Embassy has reaffirmed its support for human capital development through scholarships, vocational training and technical cooperation. As Zimbabwe pursues its vision of becoming a modern, industrialised upper-middle-income economy, Chinese diplomats have reiterated that the two countries remain sincere and reliable partners. With the 45th anniversary marking both continuity and renewal, officials on both sides expressed confidence that the partnership will continue to deepen in the years ahead.

Traditional chiefs were left stranded outside Rainbow Towers Hotel in Harare after delays in government stipends promised at their annual conference ( image source ) Harare — A delegation of traditional chiefs was left stranded outside Rainbow Towers Hotel this week after hotel staff denied them re-entry, saying their rooms had already been formally checked out. The incident occurred as the chiefs awaited government stipends promised by President Emmerson Mnangagwa during their annual conference, exposing strains between rural leadership structures and a fiscally constrained state. The chiefs had been accommodated at the five-star hotel while waiting for disbursement of support packages. According to witnesses, the funds did not arrive as scheduled, leaving several delegates unable to settle accommodation arrangements once checkout time elapsed. Hotel security subsequently refused re-admission, citing standard procedures. Video footage and eyewitness accounts showed groups of chiefs outside the hotel entrance with their luggage, visibly distressed and uncertain of their next steps. One chief, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said colleagues from provinces where stipends had already been released were able to depart, while others remained stranded. “We were told the funds were imminent after assurances were made. Now we have nowhere to go,” he said. Another chief described the episode as humiliating, saying they were told they were disturbing guests when they tried to rest in waiting and restaurant areas. “We are leaders of communities, yet we were treated like vagrants,” he said. The incident has drawn attention to broader fiscal pressures facing government. Budget constraints and delayed fund releases have affected multiple ministries, and traditional leaders have increasingly raised concerns over irregular payments and logistical shortcomings. Analysts say that public commitments on allowances and support must be underpinned by secured funding and reliable disbursement systems to prevent reputational damage and erosion of trust. Rainbow Tourism Group (RTG), which owns Rainbow Towers, confirmed that the matter was resolved following intervention by the Ministry of Local Government. RTG spokesperson Pride Khumbula said the ministry instructed the hotel to rebook the chiefs for an additional night while payment processes were finalised. “The issues have since been resolved, and the chiefs were also provided with lunch,” Khumbula said, adding that the delegates had initially been booked at different hotels but were directed to gather at Rainbow Towers to receive their stipends collectively. The episode has prompted calls for clearer protocols when state events involve large delegations. Observers urged advance coordination of payment logistics, wider use of electronic transfers, and contingency plans for accommodation and transport. Traditional leaders and civic groups also called for improved communication to avoid situations where delegates are left in limbo due to administrative delays. Local government officials said measures are being considered to strengthen planning for future conferences, including pre-event verification of beneficiary lists and on-site payment facilities. Chiefs affected by the incident have called for a formal apology and assurances that similar occurrences will not be repeated.

Zimbabwe’s music fraternity mourns sungura legend Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria, the iconic guitarist and mentor whose four-decade career shaped modern Zimbabwean music ( image source ) Harare — Zimbabwe’s music community is in mourning following the death of sungura icon Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria, the revered guitarist, composer and mentor affectionately known as the Senior Lecturer. Zakaria passed away on Thursday, ending a career that spanned more than four decades and helped shape the sound and direction of modern Zimbabwean popular music. Born in 1956 in Mazowe, Zakaria’s musical journey began early under the influence of his father, Maluva Chekani. By the age of 14 he had formed his first group, The Green Mangoes, and steadily rose from performing in Dzivaresekwa to national prominence. He later became a central figure in the Khiama Boys, a band widely credited with defining sungura’s musical identity. His intricate lead guitar work, warm vocals and composed leadership style established him as both an innovator and a mentor. Over his prolific career, Zakaria released close to 40 albums, including classics such as Chikumbiro, Ndine Mubvunzo, Ramanana and Ruvheneko. His music blended melodic sophistication with social and spiritual reflection, earning him admiration across generations. Critics and fellow musicians frequently highlighted his rare ability to combine technical mastery with emotional depth, producing guitar lines that became reference points for aspiring artists. Tributes poured in from across the country and the diaspora. Alick Macheso, his most prominent protégé, described Zakaria as a father figure and a bridge between musical generations, cancelling two scheduled performances in his honour. Guitarist Clive “Mono” Mukundu hailed his work as “a treasure no one can take away,” while gospel duo The Charambas remembered him as a gentle giant. Social media and radio airwaves filled with testimonies from artists who credited Zakaria with shaping their careers and instilling professional discipline. Large crowds gathered at Zakaria’s home in Chitungwiza, where mourners dressed in white and light blue lined the street to pay their respects. The turnout reflected both personal grief and collective recognition of his cultural contribution. Younger musicians spoke of his patience and insistence on excellence, while peers recalled years of collaboration, mentorship and quiet generosity. Zakaria’s life was also marked by resilience. During periods when the music industry struggled, he took on various jobs, including truck driving, to sustain his craft and support his family. His mentorship extended beyond music, offering guidance on career choices, personal conduct and the responsibilities that come with public influence. As funeral arrangements and memorial events are finalised, the music fraternity is planning tributes through performances, archival projects and mentorship initiatives aimed at preserving his teachings. Cultural institutions have indicated support for documenting his work to ensure future generations can access his repertoire and legacy. Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zakaria leaves behind an enduring artistic and cultural legacy. In a country where music carries memory and meaning, his songs and teachings will continue to resonate. His passing marks the end of an era, but his influence will live on through the countless musicians he inspired.

A Mpumalanga arrest involving 582 passports uncovers an alleged illegal stamping scheme ( image source ) Mpumalanga, South Africa — The arrest of a 43-year-old Zimbabwean national in Mpumalanga has exposed a suspected passport-for-profit scheme that highlights both the vulnerability of undocumented workers and ongoing concerns about corruption within immigration systems. The suspect was apprehended on Monday after police discovered 582 passports and a large sum of cash hidden inside his vehicle. A multidisciplinary law-enforcement team comprising the Middelburg Flying Squad, the Nkangala District Anti-Hijacking Team and Waterval Boven police intercepted a white Chevrolet Utility with Gauteng registration plates on December 8 following a tip-off. A search of the vehicle revealed hundreds of passports concealed in a hidden compartment, some containing cash. Several of the documents belonged to Mozambican and Malawian nationals. Officers also recovered R20,000 in a plastic bag, bringing the total cash seized to R147,300. The vehicle was impounded for further forensic examination. Preliminary investigations suggest the passports were being transported for illegal stamping, a practice that allows holders to appear to have exited South Africa lawfully in order to reset short-term visitor periods. Zimbabwean nationals are typically granted a 30-day visa-free stay, but undocumented workers reportedly surrender their passports to cross-border transporters, commonly known as omalayitsha, who allegedly bribe immigration officials to affix exit stamps. While the practice enables workers to continue employment without formal permits, it also places them at significant legal and personal risk. The suspect has been charged with contravening the Immigration Act, as well as fraud and money-laundering offences. He was expected to appear before the Waterval Boven Periodical Court on Wednesday, as investigators expand the case to establish the chain of custody for the passports, identify their owners and determine whether corrupt officials or organised criminal networks were involved. The case has renewed attention on the precarious position of undocumented migrants who rely on informal systems to sustain livelihoods. Human-rights organisations warn that such schemes expose migrants to exploitation, trafficking and extortion, while simultaneously undermining the integrity of border management and immigration controls. Legal analysts note that cases involving large numbers of foreign nationals and alleged bribery are complex and resource-intensive. Forensic analysis of the passports, financial tracing of the seized cash and cooperation with foreign consulates will be critical in determining whether document holders consented to the scheme or were victims of deception. Community and migrant-rights groups have called for a balanced response that combines firm action against criminal syndicates and corrupt officials with humane migration policies that reduce incentives for illegal workarounds. They also urged authorities to prioritise victim identification and protection, ensuring affected passport holders receive appropriate legal and consular assistance as investigations continue.

An analysis of the Chimombe and Mpofu goat scheme fraud case, examining public reactions, claims of tribalism and political persecution ( image source ) By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times (Opinion) Sometimes Zimbabwe feels like one long, chaotic village court — the kind where nobody reads the docket, but everyone has already chosen a side based on clan, cousin, or whichever goat bleated the loudest. This week’s national argument centres on the sentencing of Harare businessmen Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, who transformed a presidential goat scheme into a personal grazing project. The High Court handed Chimombe 20 years and Mpofu 25 years, later reduced to 12 and 15 years after suspensions and restitution conditions. Having already served 27 months, the credits were applied, and predictably, the reactions exploded across the country. Within minutes of the judgment appearing on NewsDay Live, the first theory surfaced: tribalism. As if the goats themselves originated from specific provinces and filed tribal complaints. The money at stake was meant for a national programme with beneficiaries across Zimbabwe’s tribes, provinces and political backgrounds. Reducing a US$7,3 million fraud case to tribal debate is misleading and dismissive of the communities deprived of sustainable livelihoods. Corruption, like a goat, does not care about anyone’s surname. Another familiar reflex followed: “But what about so-and-so?” The classic Zimbabwean defence where one thief points to another. Crime is not a group discount. The existence of other potentially guilty individuals does not erase fraud already proven in court. One conviction is not invalid simply because others escaped the net. There were also claims of political persecution, despite both men being ZANU-PF aligned and convicted within a system controlled by the same political establishment. It is difficult to argue persecution when one is prosecuted by their own political home. Without evidence of internal political purging, the theory collapses quickly. Stripping away the hashtags, tribal whistles and political gymnastics leaves a straightforward reality: they stole, they were caught, they were tried, and they were convicted. Only 4 208 goats were delivered out of the tens of thousands expected. Of the US$7,7 million disbursed, only US$331 445 reached the ground. This is not tribalism, persecution or selective justice. It is fraud — the kind that robs rural families and ruins national development efforts. Zimbabwe’s justice system is far from perfect, and selective prosecution remains an issue. But even within an imperfect system, a correct conviction remains correct. Sometimes justice arrives late, limping and unsure of its path, but still arrives. The true scandal is that money meant for vulnerable communities — villagers, widows, youth and small farmers — was siphoned by two businessmen entrusted with a national empowerment initiative. Instead of manufacturing political and tribal distractions, the nation must confront the core truth: public funds were stolen, and this time, justice answered. For once, the goats won.

The US is shifting its engagement with Zimbabwe from a donor-led model to a partnership approach focused on trade ( image source ) The United States has signalled a major recalibration of its engagement with Zimbabwe, shifting from a donor-driven relationship toward a partnership model centred on trade, investment and policy cooperation. In an interview outlining the new approach, US Ambassador Pamela Tremont said Washington intends to prioritise commercial ties in key sectors such as agriculture, tourism and critical minerals. Ambassador Tremont described the strategy as a move toward a “balanced and partnership-based” relationship, with the US gradually transferring responsibility for some development programmes to Zimbabwean authorities. While targeted support in areas like health will remain during the transition, the broader focus is now on enabling private-sector opportunities and deepening economic cooperation. A major component of the shift is the pursuit of stronger commercial links. The ambassador highlighted Zimbabwe’s potential as a supplier of critical minerals and as an emerging market for US companies seeking to diversify supply chains. She noted that with regulatory certainty and a stable policy environment, American investors could play a significant role in mining, agribusiness and tourism, complementing Zimbabwe’s re-engagement efforts under the “friend to all and enemy to none” policy. The two countries also plan to enhance collaboration on shared policy concerns, including migration management, trafficking in persons, border security and countering violent extremism. Ambassador Tremont said coordinated action could strengthen law-enforcement cooperation and offer better protections for vulnerable communities. Analysts note that the shift reflects broader geopolitical trends and a global move toward partnership-based development frameworks. For Zimbabwe, the new approach opens opportunities to attract foreign direct investment and technical partnerships that support industrialisation and export-led growth. For US companies, Zimbabwe offers access to strategic minerals and agricultural potential, provided the investment climate is consistent and predictable. Observers caution, however, that tangible investment will depend on reforms that strengthen governance, transparency and regulatory stability. Investors typically seek secure property rights, streamlined licensing processes and protection from abrupt policy changes. The ambassador indicated that Washington may provide support for policy dialogue and capacity-building to help improve the business environment. Civil-society groups argue that the partnership model should incorporate safeguards for human rights and inclusive development. They emphasise that expanding economic cooperation must go hand-in-hand with accountability mechanisms and support for institutions that uphold the rule of law. As both governments signal readiness for deeper engagement, the test will be whether diplomatic commitments lead to concrete deals, policy initiatives and durable economic outcomes. If implemented effectively, the recalibrated approach could reshape US-Zimbabwe relations, boosting trade, investment and regional economic integration.

The Lux Collective has announced LUX* Xinii Victoria Falls, a high-end eco-luxury lodge estate opening in 2028 ( image source ) Victoria Falls — Zimbabwe’s tourism sector is set for a major boost after The Lux Collective, backed by Chinese investors, confirmed plans to develop LUX* Xinii Victoria Falls, a high-end eco-luxury lodge estate on the banks of the Zambezi River. The property is scheduled to open in 2028, marking the group’s second major Southern African venture after LUX* Xinii Mababe in Botswana. It also forms part of the company’s accelerated global expansion, with seven new projects set to launch in 2025 and 16 properties currently under development worldwide. The Victoria Falls estate will be rolled out in two phases. Phase One includes 12 luxury lodges featuring conical, African-inspired roofing designed for passive cooling and rainwater harvesting. The design integrates traditional vernacular architecture with modern sustainability technologies to minimise ecological impact. Phase Two will add 14 more lodges, a signature restaurant and a swimming pool, creating an intimate, secluded eco-estate with seamless access to key attractions around Victoria Falls. Chief executive Olivier Chavy said the project aligns with The Lux Collective’s mission to “redefine the future of conscious luxury travel,” catering to travellers who want comfort without compromising on environmental responsibility. The lodges will emphasise natural materials, cultural storytelling, wellness programs and curated wildlife and river experiences. Tourism operators say the investment is a significant milestone for Victoria Falls, which is dominated by mid-range lodges and large hotel establishments. LUX* Xinii is expected to attract higher-spending leisure and MICE travellers, expand the destination’s product offering and encourage longer stays. With its Zambezi-front location and strong sustainability credentials, the estate is poised to appeal to conservation-focused and luxury eco-tourism markets globally. Beyond tourism appeal, the project will bring economic benefits through construction and long-term hospitality jobs, skills development, and local supply-chain opportunities. The Lux Collective has indicated plans to source locally wherever possible and to partner with communities in conservation initiatives and cultural programs. The announcement aligns with Zimbabwe’s national strategy to diversify tourism products and position the country as a premium destination. Analysts caution, however, that the project’s success will rely on complementary improvements in transport links, visa facilitation, destination marketing and consistent service standards. Coordination between operators and authorities on infrastructure, environmental management and community engagement will be essential to maximise benefits and minimise ecological impacts. If executed as envisioned, LUX* Xinii Victoria Falls could become a flagship model of sustainable luxury in Southern Africa — enhancing Zimbabwe’s global tourism brand and signalling renewed investor confidence in the country’s long-term tourism prospects. Planning, permitting and community consultations over the next two years will shape the path toward construction and the estate’s anticipated 2028 debut.

Zimbabwe’s music industry mourns Sungura legend Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zacharia ( image source ) The Sungura music community is in mourning following the death of legendary musician Nicholas “Madzibaba” Zacharia, who passed away this morning after a long battle with diabetes. His management confirmed the news, prompting widespread grief across Zimbabwe’s music industry. Zacharia, revered as the Sungura Godfather and fondly known as the Senior Lecturer, was celebrated for his influence both on stage and behind the scenes. He rose to prominence as a founding member of the Kiama Boys, working alongside Alick Macheso, now recognised as the King of Sungura. Together they helped define and popularise the genre, shaping its evolution and securing its cultural significance. Beyond his musical talent, Zacharia was a respected mentor whose guidance nurtured generations of artists. Musicians across the country credit him for shaping their careers, citing his commitment to excellence, discipline and artistic development. His distinctive guitar style, lyrical depth and leadership made him a towering figure whose impact extended far beyond his own catalogue. Mourners have begun gathering at his Chitungwiza home, reflecting the esteem he commanded within the community. Fans, fellow artists and local residents described him as a cultural icon whose music bridged generations and whose mentorship preserved the vitality of Sungura amid shifting musical trends. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in due course, but tributes are already pouring in from across Zimbabwe. Many are honouring his legacy by recalling his contributions to the arts and his role in cultivating and sustaining talent within the industry. For the Sungura fraternity and the nation at large, Zacharia’s passing marks the close of an era. His influence endures through the musicians he mentored and the timeless music he created, leaving a legacy rooted in artistry, mentorship and cultural pride.