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Retired General Mapuranga criticises Temba Mliswa amid growing tensions over Mnangagwa’s alleged 2030 term extension plan. Retired Lieutenant General Winston Sigauke Mapuranga has issued a sharp rebuke of former Norton MP Temba Mliswa , warning against what he described as “misinterpreting proximity to power” amid escalating tensions over President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s alleged push to extend his rule to 2030. In a strongly worded public statement, Mapuranga dismissed Mliswa’s criticism of retired military officers opposing the proposed extension, accusing him of overstepping into matters of military doctrine and command. “You are a politician… your familiarity with soldiers does not make you a soldier,” Mapuranga said. “Your proximity to power does not qualify you to lecture men who spent their entire adult lives in uniform.” The exchange comes as divisions deepen within political and military circles over constitutional changes linked to Mnangagwa’s tenure. A petition submitted to Parliament by retired Air Marshal Henry Muchena has intensified scrutiny of the proposed reforms. The petition, reportedly backed by war veterans and former commanders, argues the changes would undermine constitutional safeguards and the ideals of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle. At the centre of the dispute is the proposed Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill , whose principles have reportedly received Cabinet approval. The measure seeks to extend the president’s tenure beyond current term limits and lengthen the lifespan of Parliament proposals, critics say, which contravene the Constitution. Mapuranga stressed that military allegiance is grounded in constitutional duty rather than political loyalty. “A soldier’s oath is to Zimbabwe and its Constitution not to any individual,” he said, adding that retired officers retain the right to speak on national issues. He also rejected claims that retired officers could be silenced through their association with the Reserve Force, after Mliswa reportedly referenced their continued ties to military structures. “The Reserve Force exists to serve the Republic. It is not a mechanism for intimidating retired officers,” Mapuranga said. The retired general further accused Mliswa of veiled intimidation, warning that invoking the possibility of recall amounted to political coercion. “Threatening retired generals with recall is not loyalty… it is the behaviour of a bully,” he said. Mliswa has consistently defended the proposed extension, arguing it would ensure policy continuity and stability. He has also criticised dissenting voices within Zanu-PF and former military ranks, framing them as part of a system they once upheld. However, legal experts and critics point to constitutional provisions, particularly Sections 91 and 328, which limit presidential terms and bar incumbents from benefiting from amendments that extend their tenure. The dispute underscores widening fractures within ZANU-PF, with factions emerging around internal positions seen as paving the way for extending Mnangagwa’s presidency. Zimbabwe’s military legacy continues to shape the debate, particularly following its decisive role in the 2017 Zimbabwe coup d'état that ushered Mnangagwa into power. As Parliament prepares for public consultations on the proposed amendment, concerns persist that the process could proceed without a referendum, a move analysts warn could heighten political tensions in an already polarised environment. Mapuranga Mliswa clash Zimbabwe constitutional amendment

Thebephatshwa Air Base Gaborone, Botswana / Harare, Zimbabwe- The Government of Botswana has issued a definitive rebuff to long-standing reports suggesting the presence of a United States military base  on its soil. In a high-level clarification aimed at quelling regional unease, officials labeled the claims as "misinformation" that risks undermining the delicate balance of SADC regional stability. At the center of the controversy is Thebephatshwa Air Base , a sophisticated facility that has frequently been the subject of international speculation. Minister of State President for Defence and Security, Moeti Mohwasa, was unequivocal in asserting national ownership. Sovereign Control: The minister stated that the base is "owned, operated, and controlled entirely" by the Botswana Defence Force (BDF) . National Interests: The facility is designated for emergency response, international peacekeeping missions, and the maintenance of the BDF’s military readiness. Foreign Cooperation: While the government did not deny technical cooperation or training exercises with international partners, it maintained that such activities do not constitute a "foreign base." The timing of this denial is significant. As global tensions escalate particularly regarding the Middle East conflict rumors of foreign military outposts in Africa have surged. Government spokesperson Tuduetso Mokgosi warned that these unverified claims are not harmless "public discourse" but potentially destabilizing "misinformation." "Misinformation, particularly when amplified across borders, has the potential to create unnecessary misunderstanding... between neighbouring countries." Tuduetso Mokgosi, Government Spokesperson For neighbors such as Zimbabwe and South Africa, the presence of a permanent US military installation in Botswana has historically been a strategic concern. By reinforcing its stance on transparency and accountability, Gaborone aims to reassure its peers that its defense posture remains strictly aligned with the principles of national sovereignty and regional non-alignment. Botswana US military base denial

Water infrastructure pipes HARARE —   Zimbabwe’s local authorities  have been identified as the worst‑performing sector in the government’s 2025 performance contracts , weighed down by structural and operational challenges that continue to undermine service delivery. The findings were announced Monday as part of the annual performance review system introduced by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in 2021 to strengthen accountability and assess the effectiveness of senior public officials. Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet Martin Rushwaya  said overall government performance had improved, but local authorities remained the weakest link. Urban councils: Only 22% of mayors and council chairpersons met their targets, while 68% fell below target but within variance. Ten percent performed below both benchmarks. Average rating: 3.44, up from 3.31 in 2024. Rural councils: 23% met targets, 74% fell below target but within variance, and 3% fell below both benchmarks. Average rating: 3.66, slightly down from 3.74 in 2024. Town clerks/CEOs: 22% met targets, 70% fell below target but within variance, and 8% fell below both thresholds. Rural district council chairpersons: 28% met targets, 63% fell below target but within variance, and 9% fell short of both measures. The evaluation highlighted systemic problems: Poor revenue collection and widespread non‑payment of rates. Non‑revenue water losses are estimated at 45%. Ageing water and sewer infrastructure. Shortages of equipment and machinery. President Mnangagwa said the performance contracts system was designed to enhance accountability and improve service delivery. “The 2026 Performance Contracts represent a key milestone in our public administration and governance journey. It reflects our unwavering commitment and resilience in delivering public services efficiently as we march forward towards the realisation of Vision 2030,” he said. Analysts argue that despite marginal improvements across sectors, the continued underperformance of local authorities underscores the need for deeper reforms  to address inefficiencies at the grassroots level. Zimbabwe local authorities performance 2025

Harare Civil Court building, where the protection order was granted A Harare teacher has been granted a protection order by the Harare Civil Court following a distressing incident in which her former husband allegedly stormed her classroom and dumped her personal belongings in front of pupils. Patricia Yusufu successfully applied for the order against her ex-husband, Charles Mike, after he failed to attend the hearing, resulting in a default ruling. In her application, Yusufu detailed what she described as a humiliating and traumatic encounter. She told the court that the pair had been customarily married before their union ended on April 2, 2025, under strained circumstances. “Our customary union ended when he forcibly removed me from our home after I refused to relinquish my personal vehicle, which he intended to sell unlawfully,” she said, adding that traditional rites to formally dissolve the marriage were later completed. Yusufu said the incident occurred while she was teaching, when Mike allegedly entered the classroom accompanied by several individuals carrying sacks filled with her belongings. “They began shouting accusations at me, labelling me a prostitute and claiming I had a boyfriend,” she said. “These allegations are entirely false and shocking to hear from a former husband.” According to her testimony, the group emptied the sacks onto the classroom floor, scattering her clothes in full view of students, colleagues, and parents who were present at the school. “This degrading act left me traumatised, distressed, and seriously defamed,” she said. The court granted the protection order, which is designed to prevent further harassment or contact, citing the respondent’s absence and the seriousness of the allegations presented. However, the case is not yet fully settled. Mike has since filed an application seeking to rescind the default judgment , a legal process that could reopen the matter if granted by the court. The dispute comes against the backdrop of a contentious separation between the two. Court records indicate that Yusufu was previously convicted of stealing US$5,200 from Mike. She completed 170 hours of community service at a local hospital and repaid the money in full. Legal experts note that protection orders in Zimbabwe are commonly issued in cases involving harassment, intimidation, or emotional abuse, and can be granted even in the respondent’s absence if the court is satisfied that the applicant faces potential harm. The case underscores growing concerns around domestic disputes spilling into workplaces, particularly in sensitive environments such as schools. Harare teacher protection order

Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe headquarters in Harare The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has moved to calm market concerns following the government’s decision to pay local suppliers exclusively in the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency. On March 13, Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube announced that all payments to local contractors and suppliers would now be made in ZiG, a policy shift aimed at strengthening demand for the domestic currency. The move triggered anxiety among businesses and analysts, who warned it could force suppliers to source US dollars on the parallel market, potentially fuelling exchange rate volatility and inflationary pressures. However, in a statement issued on March 17, RBZ Governor John Mushayavanhu said the policy does not signal the end of Zimbabwe’s multicurrency system. “The stance taken by Government to pay its local suppliers and contractors exclusively in ZiG does not signal the end of the multicurrency system,” Mushayavanhu said. He added that suppliers would continue to access foreign currency through the Willing-Buyer Willing-Seller (WBWS) interbank foreign exchange market to meet legitimate import requirements. “The Reserve Bank guarantees the consistent supply of foreign currency to the WBWS foreign exchange market,” he said, noting that the country has sufficient reserves to meet bona fide demand. According to the central bank, Zimbabwe recorded foreign currency receipts of up to US$16 billion in 2025, which has supported the build-up of strategic reserves and improved liquidity in the formal market. The RBZ also pointed to recent inflation data as evidence of growing stability. Official figures show inflation stood at 4.1% in January and eased to 3.85% in February 2026, suggesting that price and exchange rate expectations are stabilising. Mushayavanhu said the introduction of the National Standard Price List (NSPL) for public procurement would help anchor pricing in ZiG and drive wider adoption of the currency across the economy. “The implementation of the NSPL will go a long way in promoting demand and increased use of ZiG,” he said, describing it as a key step toward eventual de-dollarisation. Authorities insist that any transition to a fully local currency regime will only occur once specific economic conditions, including sustained stability and broad market confidence, have been met. For now, the RBZ maintains that businesses receiving ZiG payments will not be disadvantaged, as long as they can reliably access foreign exchange through formal channels. The policy forms part of broader efforts by the government to re-establish the dominance of the local currency while maintaining macroeconomic stability in a historically volatile monetary environment. ZiG currency Zimbabwe

Zimparks rangers and cadet rangers monitoring wildlife movement The Beitbridge Rural District Council (BRDC) has engaged professional hunters to help manage escalating human-elephant conflict affecting communities across the district. The move comes as elephant incursions become increasingly frequent in areas near major water sources, particularly along the Umzingwane River, Shashe River, Bubi River, and Limpopo River. Communities in Shashe, Dite, Lukange, Whunga, Mpande, Tshambombela, Tongwe and Tshikwalakwala are among the hardest hit, with residents reporting repeated crop destruction and growing threats to livelihoods. BRDC chief executive officer Kiliboni Mbedzi said the council is working with multiple stakeholders to mitigate the situation and promote safer coexistence between people and wildlife. “As the local authority, we have engaged professional hunters working with the Zimbabwe National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority and safari operators to mitigate the effects in all the affected areas,” Mbedzi said. She noted that response efforts are ongoing despite limited resources, with authorities attending to distress calls from affected communities. “The herd is migrant, and it’s hard for us to be everywhere all the time, but we remain committed to finding sustainable solutions,” she added. Authorities say the elephants are moving through the district in search of food and water, a pattern that often brings them into direct contact with rural settlements. In addition to deploying professional hunters, BRDC and its partners are implementing a range of mitigation measures. These include the use of chilli-based deterrents and beehive fences, which are widely used in southern Africa to keep elephants away from crops. Plans are also underway to establish wildlife corridors aimed at reducing encounters by guiding animal movement away from densely populated areas. Human-wildlife conflict remains a persistent challenge in parts of Zimbabwe, particularly in districts bordering conservation areas and transboundary ecosystems linked to the Limpopo basin. Mbedzi urged residents to remain vigilant and report elephant sightings promptly to authorities to allow for quicker response times. The council says it will continue working with Zimparks and other stakeholders to protect both communities and wildlife, while exploring long-term solutions to reduce conflict and safeguard rural livelihoods. Beitbridge elephant conflict

Trees interfering with ZESA powerlines Harare, Zimbabwe- The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC)  has issued a nationwide call for customers to proactively manage vegetation on their premises. The power utility identified encroaching trees and overhanging branches as a leading cause of preventable electricity faults and localized power outages across the country. Property owners are reminded that maintaining clear pathways for overhead lines is not merely a suggestion but a legal requirement. Under Section 11.2.4 of the Electricity (Distribution Code) Regulations , consumers are responsible for: Trimming or cutting branches that interfere with transmission. Ensuring no trees are planted directly under or in close proximity to power lines. Preventing vegetation from encroaching into the "safe zone" around electrical infrastructure. While the responsibility for trimming lies with the customer, ZETDC has issued a stern warning against DIY tree cutting near live wires. To prevent fatal accidents and electrocution , the utility mandates a supervised approach: Contact Your Local Center: Liaise with the nearest ZETDC Client Service Centre before starting any work. Professional Guidance: Technicians will provide guidance on safe distances and, if necessary, temporary power isolation to ensure the safety of the workers. Risk Mitigation: Fallen trees on lines remain energized; customers are warned never to touch branches that are already in contact with wires. Vegetation-related faults account for a significant percentage of "nuisance trips" on the national grid. By clearing these hazards, communities can significantly improve their local power stability, especially during the rainy season when wet branches act as conductors and high winds cause trees to collapse onto lines. ZETDC faults reporting tree trimming

VP Chiwenga and wife Harare, Zimbabwe- The Government of Zimbabwe has issued a high-priority public warning regarding a criminal syndicate impersonating Vice President Constantino Chiwenga  and his wife, Colonel Miniyothabo Baloyi Chiwenga . In a statement released by Deputy Chief Secretary for Presidential Communications George Charamba , authorities detailed a scheme using foreign telecommunications networks to solicit funds and sensitive data from unsuspecting citizens and foreigners. The impostors are reportedly leveraging the prestige of the Vice Presidency to execute a "social engineering" fraud. Foreign Origins: The perpetrators are primarily using phone numbers with South African (+27) and Nigerian (+234) country codes. The Bait: Contact is initiated to solicit money, specialized services, or personal information under the guise of official state business or household needs. Social Media Impersonation: Fake profiles on X (formerly Twitter) have been identified. The government has explicitly clarified that neither the Vice President nor his wife holds accounts on X. To protect the public from further prejudice, the Deputy Chief Secretary emphasized that state business is never conducted via informal digital channels or foreign mobile numbers. Authorized Personnel: All official matters are handled by verified personnel through established government structures. Official Channels: Communication from the Vice President’s Office follows strict, traceable administrative routes. Verification: Any informal "outreach" claiming to be from the household should be treated as fraudulent and ignored. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP)  and national security agencies are currently collaborating with telecommunications regulators in both South Africa and Nigeria. The goal is to track the digital footprint of the specific phone numbers used in the scheme and bring the perpetrators likely operating as part of a transnational cybercrime ring to justice. Public Action Point: Members of the public who have been contacted by these imposters are urged to report the interaction immediately to the nearest police station or the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC) . Vice President Constantino Chiwenga impersonation scam

Fuel tanker truck transporting diesel in Zimbabwe The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has announced a sharp increase in fuel prices for March 2026, citing rising global cost pressures and supply chain disruptions. In a notice issued on Wednesday, March 18, ZERA said diesel prices have risen from US$1.77 to US$2.05 per litre, while petrol has jumped from US$1.71 to US$2.17 per litre. The latest adjustment comes as authorities move to prevent supply shortages and arbitrage in the domestic market. “Cost pressures are piling up and these require that prices be reviewed… to avoid fuel shortages and arbitrage,” ZERA said in a statement. The regulator added that Zimbabwe currently holds more than three months’ worth of fuel stocks across the supply chain, including reserves linked to the Beira corridor and inland storage facilities. Despite the price hike, government officials sought to reassure the public that fuel supply remains stable. Authorities are also working with oil traders to diversify supply routes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting traditional supply lines . “Government is opening up supply routes not affected by the current conflict in the Middle East,” ZERA noted. In a significant policy shift, the government has approved the importation of diesel by road with immediate effect, adding to existing pipeline and rail delivery systems. The move is expected to improve distribution, particularly to remote areas that often face supply constraints. State-linked energy firms, including Petrotrade and National Oil Infrastructure Company of Zimbabwe , will play a key role in ensuring fuel reaches all service stations nationwide. ZERA said efforts are being made to cushion key sectors from the full impact of rising fuel costs, particularly diesel-dependent industries such as mining, agriculture, transport and logistics. “The price of diesel has been set with a view to mitigate the impact on key sectors,” the authority said, adding that without government intervention, diesel prices could have reached as high as US$2.20 per litre. Fuel pricing in Zimbabwe is typically reviewed every two weeks, reflecting changes in international oil prices, exchange rate movements and logistical costs. The latest increase is likely to have a ripple effect across the economy, with transport costs, food prices and production expenses expected to rise in the coming weeks. Zimbabwe fuel prices 2026

Zimbabwean artist attending Creative Economy Week By Percy Nhara If you’ve stepped outside in Harare, Bulawayo, or Masvingo lately, you’ve likely felt a different kind of buzz. It wasn’t just the March heat; it was the energy of Creative Economy Week Zimbabwe (CEW2026), which wrapped up on March 7th. The British Council and its partners turned the country into a giant boardroom for "shakers and makers," and the message was loud and clear. We’ve spent the last few weeks getting your house in order. We talked about formalizing your business , securing global digital passports , and pricing your work  so you don't end up as a "starving artist." But this week, the theme is "Kuvaka Pamwe"  (Building Together). The NDS2 era has a new rule: if you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to get paid, go together. 1. The "Ecosystem" is the New Studio For years, Zimbabwean artists operated like islands. The musicians didn't talk to the filmmakers, and the fashion designers only saw the painters at gallery openings. The "Inclusive Growth Pivot" is about breaking those walls. During the recent masterclasses, we saw the Creative Business Academy for Africa (CBAfA) model in action. They are moving away from teaching just "music business" to a full "Ecosystem Template." Imagine a filmmaker in Chipinge collaborating with a costume designer in Bulawayo to create a music video for a singer in Harare. That isn't just a project; it’s a value chain. When we work in silos, we lose money. When we pivot to an ecosystem, we create an industry. 2. Legal Alert: The Banjul Protocol and Your Brand While the showcases were brilliant, something serious happened on March 1st, 2026. The Banjul Protocol  (governed by ARIPO) introduced major amendments that every creative needs to know. Why should a comedian or a sculptor care? Because your brand is your biggest asset. Speed: The refusal window for trademarks has been cut from nine months to six. This means you get your protection faster. Exhibition Priority: If you showcase a new design or brand at an event like CEW2026, you now have a six-month "priority" window to file for protection. Costs: Be warned—fees have increased (electronic filing is now $160). It’s the legal version of the ISRC codes  we discussed it ensures no one else can "copy-paste" your hard work and profit from it in Lagos or Nairobi. 3. The ZIMRA Digital Reality As of January 2026, the new 15% Digital Services Tax is officially in motion. For those selling digital art or music via foreign platforms, ZIMRA is now using intermediaries (like your bank) to withhold this at the point of payment. This sounds scary, but it’s actually a nudge toward formalization . Being a registered taxpayer allows you to claim these withholdings as credits. 4. Funding Deadlines: Don't Sleep! During the Grants in Arts Roundtable, several institutions outlined their 2026–2027 funding cycles. Take note of these upcoming dates: Visa For Music 2026: Applications for the Rabat showcase close March 27, 2026. bildingship Grant: For young artists focused on creative education, the deadline is April 5, 2026. The Bottom Line: Don't Be a Lone Wolf The "Lone Wolf" artist is a myth that belongs in the past. In 2026, success is a team sport. Use the connections you made during Creative Economy Week. Whether you are attending a session on "Fashion as Film" or "Music Publishing," look to your left and right. Your next business partner is sitting right there. Stop trying to be the CEO, the janitor, and the lead singer all at once. Pivot to collaboration. Build the ecosystem. Let’s grow together. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p57yRZalM6c Creative Economy Week Zimbabwe 2026

CAF Morocco has been awarded the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title following a dramatic ruling by the Confederation of African Football appeals board , which overturned Senegal’s victory in a controversial January final. In a statement released Tuesday, CAF confirmed that Senegal had been “declared to have forfeited the final,” converting their 1-0 extra-time win into a 3-0 result in favour of host nation Morocco. The decision stems from chaotic scenes during the January 18 final in Rabat, where Senegal players, led by coach Pape Thiaw, temporarily left the pitch in protest during stoppage time. The disruption lasted approximately 15 minutes and was compounded by fans attempting to invade the field. The protest followed a contentious penalty awarded to Morocco late in the match, a decision that appeared likely to determine the outcome. When play resumed, Morocco forward Brahim Díaz attempted a “Panenka” penalty, a chipped shot down the centre, which was saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy. Senegal went on to score the decisive goal in extra time, initially securing what appeared to be a historic victory. However, tensions had already escalated moments earlier when Senegal had a goal disallowed for an alleged foul by defender Abdoulaye Seck on Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi. Television replays suggested minimal contact, fuelling further controversy. At the time, CAF’s disciplinary panel imposed fines exceeding $1 million and handed out suspensions to players and officials from both teams, but allowed the result to stand. The appeals board, however, cited Article 82 of AFCON tournament regulations, which states that any team that refuses to play or leaves the field without the referee’s approval forfeits the match. CAF ruled that Senegal’s temporary walkout constituted a breach of this rule, warranting forfeiture. The decision is expected to spark further legal action, with the case potentially heading to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Morocco Awarded AFCON CAF Overturns Senegal Final Win

NetOne Harare, Zimbabwe- In a landmark decision for digital accessibility, state-owned mobile network operator NetOne Zimbabwe  has announced the total removal of browsing time restrictions on all data bundles. The move, effective Tuesday, March 17, ends years of consumer frustration regarding "unusable" data that was previously locked behind off-peak windows. Before this shift, a significant portion of NetOne’s data bundles was only accessible during off-peak hours (most recently 10 pm to 5 am). This forced subscribers to either stay awake into the early hours of the morning or allow their paid data to expire unused. The Turning Point: CCZ Intervention: In January 2026, Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ)  CEO Rosemary Mpofu formally challenged NetOne, arguing that the system undermined "fairness, transparency, and value for money." Failed Adjustments: NetOne initially attempted to appease subscribers last month by shifting off-peak hours to 10 pm, but the concession was deemed insufficient by the market. The Final Directive: NetOne has now moved to a "One-Bundle, Any-Time"  model, allowing 24/7 access to all data purchased. Subscribers can now convert their airtime into unrestricted bundles using the existing USSD protocol: Dial *379#  on your NetOne line. Select your preferred bundle (Daily, Weekly, or Monthly). Enjoy seamless connectivity without checking the clock. This move is expected to put significant pressure on other mobile network operators (MNOs) in Zimbabwe to follow suit. As the digital economy grows, the demand for unrestricted data has become a primary driver of subscriber loyalty. NetOne Zimbabwe remove off-peak data