By Southerton Business Times | Harare The Musasa Project has called for urgent action to address violence against women and children, warning that recent cases of femicide and filicide have highlighted the need for stronger prevention measures, improved survivor support and greater community involvement. In a statement issued on 5 August 2026, the gender-based violence organisation expressed concern over several recent killings reported in Zimbabwe and abroad, saying every life lost should serve as a call to strengthen efforts to prevent violence before it turns fatal. Femicide refers to the intentional killing of women or girls because of their gender, while filicide is the killing of a child by a parent, step-parent or parental figure. The organisation extended its condolences to families affected by the reported cases and urged authorities and communities to act decisively. "Every case of femicide is more than a personal tragedy. It is a reminder that violence escalated to its deadliest outcome. These deaths demand more than public outrage. They demand urgent action," Musasa said. The organisation said violence against women and children should never be normalised or excused and called for stronger protection systems to safeguard those at risk. Musasa's statement follows several high-profile cases that have drawn national and international attention. Among them are a case in Bulawayo, where police are investigating the deaths of a man and two children, allegedly involving a family member, and another in Kadoma, where a man was arrested following the alleged killing of his wife and pregnant daughter. The organisation also referenced the arrest of Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, a Zimbabwean-British national accused of killing his wife and two daughters in the United Kingdom before being arrested in South Africa. Musasa said such incidents demonstrate the devastating impact of violence on families and communities. The organisation urged Government institutions, law enforcement agencies, community leaders, religious organisations and civil society groups to work together to prevent gender-based violence. It called for: Stronger protection mechanisms for women and children. Improved access to survivor support services. Early identification of warning signs of violence. Community education to challenge harmful gender norms. Greater collaboration between families, traditional leaders, police, social services and civil society. Musasa also appealed to journalists and media organisations to report cases of femicide and filicide responsibly. The organisation warned against reporting that sensationalises, romanticises or normalises violence. "Every woman has the right to live free from violence. Every child has the right to grow up in safety. These rights must be protected not only through strong laws and effective services, but through a collective commitment to reject violence in all its forms." Musasa said it remains committed to supporting survivors of gender-based violence while working with communities to promote safer environments where women and children can live free from fear. Musasa femicide Zimbabwe

By Southerton Business Times | Harare The United States Embassy in Harare has publicly challenged claims made by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda regarding Zimbabwe's decision to reject a US$365 million health funding agreement, saying the minister's description of the proposal was inaccurate. The diplomatic response comes after Dr Soda told Parliament that the Government declined the five-year health agreement because it was concerned the United States wanted access to Zimbabweans' private health data for research purposes. Government Explains Why It Rejected the Health Agreement Addressing Parliament, Dr Soda said the Government was not satisfied that the proposed arrangement would adequately protect Zimbabweans. According to the minister, authorities believed the agreement could expose sensitive health information and therefore decided against accepting it. He said the Government was unwilling to approve an arrangement whose intentions it was not fully convinced about. US Embassy Rejects Minister's Characterisation However, a spokesperson for the US Embassy in Harare, speaking to NewZimbabwe.com, rejected the minister's account, describing it as a misrepresentation of the proposed Health Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). "We reject the recent mischaracterisation of the terms of the Health Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) made by a high-level Government of Zimbabwe official, which described the MOU as a threat," the spokesperson said. The embassy said the agreement would have provided US$365 million over five years to support Zimbabwe's public health sector. According to the embassy, the funding was earmarked for programmes covering: HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention Tuberculosis control Malaria programmes Maternal and child health services Laboratory systems Disease surveillance and outbreak response Embassy Says Conditions Were Standard Practice The embassy said the proposed agreement required Zimbabwe to co-invest in the programmes to improve long-term sustainability and to strengthen financial accountability measures. It also said the sharing of disease specimens during outbreaks formed part of internationally accepted public health practice. "The MOU required very reasonable conditions: that the Zimbabwean government co-invest, assuring sustainability of the programs; provide financial accountability and transparency to guarantee funds benefit the people and communities of Zimbabwe; and share specimens when outbreaks occur, which is a long-standing global practice to develop solutions quickly," the spokesperson said. The embassy further rejected suggestions that the United States had sought access to Zimbabweans' personal medical records. It said claims that American-funded medical research would not benefit Zimbabweans were contradicted by decades of health cooperation between the two countries, during which Zimbabwe has received medicines, vaccines and other medical support funded by the United States. According to the embassy, similar health agreements have been implemented in 34 countries, representing a combined investment of approximately US$14.3 billion. The Zimbabwean Government has not yet publicly responded to the embassy's latest remarks. US Embassy Zimbabwe health deal

By Southerton Business Times | Harare Thousands of Zimbabwean motorists who obtained their Class 2 driver's licences before June 2023 will not be required to sit for fresh driving tests or apply for new licences to continue driving light motor vehicles. The clarification from the Vehicle Inspectorate Department (VID) follows widespread confusion and social media claims that changes introduced under Statutory Instrument (SI) 119 of 2023 had stripped long-time Class 2 licence holders of their driving privileges. Existing Class 2 Licences Remain Valid Speaking during a radio interview this week, VID Belvedere Depot Manager Caroline Tshuma said drivers who obtained their licences under the previous licensing framework retain the rights attached to those licences. She said motorists who passed their Class 2 driving test before SI 119 of 2023 came into effect remain legally entitled to drive Class 4 (light motor vehicles) and Class 5 vehicles without undergoing another driving test. "In Zimbabwe, before SI 119, licensing was being done according to Government Notice 240 of 1977. This allowed for awarding of classes. If you go for your Class 2, you were awarded Class 4 and 5. So if you did your driving test before SI 119, that is before 2023, you are allowed to drive your Class 4 and 5 vehicles," Tshuma said. She stressed that these rights remain valid as long as the driver's licence is current and has not expired. Why the Rules Changed VID National Training Manager Bridgette Chimawo said Statutory Instrument 119 of 2023, gazetted on 23 June 2023, modernised Zimbabwe's driver licensing system by replacing regulations that had been in force since the 1970s. According to Chimawo, the reforms were introduced to align Zimbabwe's licensing framework with Southern African Development Community (SADC) standards and improve cross-border recognition of driver's licences. What SI 119 of 2023 Introduced The updated regulations introduced several key changes, including: New driver's licence categories and vehicle codes aligned with SADC standards. Driving tests in both manual and automatic vehicles. Automatic-only licence endorsements marked "AT" for drivers tested in automatic vehicles. Mandatory medical and eyesight certificates for certain licence categories, including public service vehicle drivers. Revised minimum age requirements and progression rules for heavy vehicles and public transport licences. The regulations apply primarily to new licence applicants and those seeking additional licence categories after the law came into effect. Confusion Followed Social Media Reports The clarification comes after reports circulated on social media claiming that traffic police officers were allegedly demanding that motorists holding Class 2 licences also produce Class 4 licences when driving light vehicles. Earlier this week, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development dismissed those claims, stating that the Government has not changed the rights of motorists who obtained their licences under the previous licensing system. The latest clarification from the VID confirms that motorists with valid pre-2023 Class 2 licences can continue driving the vehicle classes they were legally authorised to operate without any additional testing. Class 2 driving licence Zimbabwe

By Southerton Business Times | Harare A 27-year-old inmate at Chikurubi Female Prison has shared how chasing quick money and becoming involved in drugs cost her freedom, urging young Zimbabweans to avoid making choices that could ruin their lives. Leah Chikwekwe, from Mbare, recounted her story during a crime prevention awareness programme attended by students from St Ignatius College, who toured Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison, the Female Prison and the Psychiatric Unit to learn about the consequences of criminal behaviour. Speaking to the students, Chikwekwe said she became involved in a scheme in which she deceived a man out of US$20 before using the money to purchase drugs for resale. According to H-Metro, she told students that the incident began after a man agreed to pay her US$10 for sex at a flat in Harare. She alleged that after receiving the money, she pretended to arrange access to a room, then left through another exit. When she later returned wearing different clothes, the man reportedly failed to recognise her. She then allegedly convinced him she could help locate the woman he was looking for and obtained another US$10 before disappearing again. Chikwekwe said she later used the money to buy drugs, a path she said eventually resulted in her arrest and imprisonment. 'Crime Has Consequences' Reflecting on her experience, Chikwekwe said prison had taught her difficult lessons about the consequences of crime. She told students that her imprisonment had separated her from her children and deprived her of the freedom she once took for granted. "I urge the students not to be tempted to make quick money through immorality, partying with misbehaving friends, or experimenting with drugs and substances," she said. She encouraged learners to focus on education and lawful opportunities instead of shortcuts to wealth. "I have come to understand that the wrath of the law will always catch up with anyone enjoying the fruits of illicit deals." Another Inmate Warns About Drug Crime Another inmate, Lavender Zisengwe (27), also addressed the students, describing how involvement in drug-related offences had changed her life. She said prison life is governed by strict rules and routines, regardless of an inmate's background. "In prison, you are forced to wear the same clothes no matter your case or background, you must retire to bed before the night and your movement is controlled," she said. Zisengwe urged the students to avoid criminal activities and appreciate the value of their freedom. Crime Prevention Through Awareness The prison visit formed part of a crime prevention initiative aimed at helping young people understand the real-life consequences of criminal behaviour, including drug abuse and fraud. Zimbabwean authorities have intensified awareness campaigns in schools as part of broader efforts to discourage youth involvement in crime and substance abuse. Chikurubi inmate warning students

By Southerton Business Times | Harare Travelling between Harare and London on Air Zimbabwe has become significantly more expensive after the national airline increased fares on its recently relaunched route by up to 60%. The sharp increase comes just days after the airline restored its normal flight schedule following the cancellation of a London-bound service due to operational reasons. Under the revised pricing, passengers booking the Harare-London route will now pay hundreds of US dollars more than they did only weeks ago. One-Way and Return Ticket Prices Jump Air Zimbabwe's lowest advertised one-way fare from Harare to London Gatwick has increased from US$495 to US$790. The US$295 increase represents a 59.6% rise in the airline's entry-level fare. Return tickets have also become considerably more expensive, rising from US$900 to US$1,412. The US$512 increase translates to a 56.9% jump, making the route substantially costlier for leisure travellers, business passengers and Zimbabweans visiting family in the United Kingdom. Flights Return to Normal After Disruption The fare increase comes after Air Zimbabwe confirmed that normal operations have resumed on its three-times-weekly Harare-London Gatwick service. The airline temporarily suspended one flight after Flight UM724, scheduled to depart Harare on 31 July 2026, was cancelled because of what it described as operational reasons. In a statement, Air Zimbabwe said: "Air Zimbabwe wishes to advise its valued passengers and stakeholders that normal flight scheduling has been restored. All Air Zimbabwe flights are operating as scheduled." The airline also thanked customers for their patience during the disruption. "We extend our sincere gratitude to all passengers and stakeholders affected by the recent disruption. Your understanding, patience, and continued loyalty have been deeply appreciated during this period." The fare increase is likely to affect thousands of travellers using the route, particularly members of Zimbabwe's diaspora, business travellers and tourists. Air Zimbabwe resumed direct flights between Harare and London in July 2026, ending a 14-year absence from the route. The service currently operates three times a week, with departures from Harare on Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and return flights from London on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays. While the airline has restored flight reliability after last week's disruption, the higher ticket prices are expected to become the biggest immediate concern for passengers planning trips between Zimbabwe and the United Kingdom. Industry analysts note that international airfares can fluctuate due to aircraft leasing costs, fuel prices, airport charges, operational expenses and demand. Air Zimbabwe has not provided a detailed explanation for the latest fare adjustments. Air Zimbabwe Harare London fares

By Southerton Business Times | Harare Chimurenga music icon Thomas "Mukanya" Mapfumo has defended his decision to accept US$1 million to perform at Jah Prayzah's upcoming wedding and a separate private event hosted by businessman Wicknell Chivayo, saying the payment is for professional services and not a personal gift. Mapfumo also dismissed suggestions that he harbours ill feelings towards Chivayo, describing the businessman as one of his biggest admirers. The veteran musician made the remarks during an interview with Nehanda Radio, where he responded to criticism from some opposition activists and social media users who argued that he should have rejected the arrangement. The controversy stems from Mapfumo's decision in 2024 to reject a US$500,000 package reportedly offered by Chivayo, which included a house, a vehicle and cash. At the time, the music legend said his conscience would not allow him to accept what he described as "dirty money." However, last month, Mapfumo clarified that the US$1 million he recently accepted was payment for performances, not a donation or gift. Asked why he had changed his position, Mapfumo said there was nothing inconsistent about accepting payment for his work. "There's nothing unusual about it. Didn't you hear Chikomo saying Wicknell is a big fan of Mukanya? If he can buy my CDs and play them in his car, why should I ignore what he wants to do for me?" Mapfumo said. Mapfumo said he has no personal dispute with Chivayo and questioned why he should reject work from someone who appreciates his music. He also addressed public allegations often made against the businessman, saying it is the responsibility of law enforcement authorities, not him, to determine whether any wrongdoing has occurred. "I don't know where he gets his money. If he is a thief, why hasn't he been arrested? If he is indeed a thief, arrest him and show the evidence that he is indeed a thief... why is he free if he is a thief?" he said. The musician added that Chivayo has financially supported several Zimbabwean artists over the years. "In fact, he has assisted several artists. Those musicians are struggling." Mapfumo's remarks have reignited debate on social media over artists accepting payments from politically connected business figures. Supporters argue that musicians should be free to earn a living through legitimate performance contracts, regardless of who hires them, while critics contend that public figures should consider the broader public perception of such engagements. Neither Mapfumo nor Chivayo has indicated that the performances have been cancelled, and the veteran musician maintains that the arrangement is a commercial agreement for entertainment services. Thomas Mapfumo Wicknell Chivayo

By Southerton Business Times | Bulawayo Bulawayo police have arrested two suspects and recovered 31.8 kilogrammes of cannabis and hundreds of bottles of BronCleer cough syrup in separate anti-drug operations as authorities intensify the crackdown on drug trafficking in Zimbabwe. The suspects, Annet Sebele (38) and Fortune Tshabalala (42), both from Tshabalala suburb, were arrested during operations conducted by detectives from the CID Drugs and Narcotics Unit. Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele said the arrests followed intelligence received from members of the public. Inspector Msebele said detectives arrested Sebele on 1 August after receiving information that she was allegedly operating a drug distribution business from her home. Police recovered four cobs of cannabis weighing 1.8 kilogrammes, with an estimated street value of more than ZiG280,000. Detectives also seized empty sachets believed to have been used to package the drug for sale. According to police, Sebele later directed investigators to another residence where Tshabalala was arrested in connection with the investigation. In a separate operation conducted at around 4 am on 2 August in Newtown West, detectives acted on reports of suspected drug dealing at a house in the suburb. Police said officers observed several suspects loading unidentified items into a white Honda Vezel before identifying themselves. The suspects allegedly drove into the property, locked the gate and escaped by jumping over the perimeter wall into nearby bushes. A subsequent search of the premises resulted in the recovery of: 36 cobs of cannabis weighing approximately 30 kilogrammes 58 boxes of BronCleer cough syrup, each containing 50 bottles 447 loose 100ml bottles of BronCleer Police estimated the street value of the recovered BronCleer cough syrup at approximately US$26,429. Investigations are continuing to identify and arrest the suspects who fled the scene. The seizures come as Zimbabwe continues to battle rising cases of drug and substance abuse, particularly among young people. BronCleer, a codeine-containing cough syrup, has increasingly featured in police operations targeting the illegal distribution of prescription medicines, while cannabis remains one of the country's most commonly trafficked illicit drugs. The Government has identified drug and substance abuse as a major public health and security challenge, linking it to mental health problems, crime, school dropouts and road traffic accidents. Police have intensified intelligence-led operations against suspected drug suppliers and trafficking networks across the country. Inspector Msebele commended members of the public for assisting police investigations. "We appreciate members of the public for supplying information which led to the arrest of the accused persons. We also warn those unlawfully dealing in dangerous drugs that the law will take its course without fear or favour," she said. Bulawayo drug bust

By Southerton Business Times | Harare The Government has introduced sweeping new regulations requiring property developers to finance and construct electricity infrastructure for new residential, commercial and industrial developments before selling or leasing serviced stands. The measures, contained in Statutory Instrument 128 of 2026, are aimed at ensuring new developments are fully serviced with reliable electricity while reducing the burden on the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) to retrofit power infrastructure after settlements have already been established. The regulations also introduce stiff penalties for non-compliance, including criminal prosecution, fines and imprisonment. Under the new regulations, developers must design, fund and install all electricity backbone infrastructure required to supply their developments. Crucially, no developer will be permitted to sell, lease or otherwise dispose of any stand until the electrical infrastructure has been completed, inspected and certified by the relevant authorities. The move is expected to address long-standing concerns over housing developments being marketed without essential services, leaving homeowners waiting years for electricity connections. Once completed, the electricity distribution network must be transferred to ZETDC free of charge. Developers will also be required to provide a five-year warranty covering all electrical infrastructure and equipment installed within the development. The warranty is intended to ensure defects identified after commissioning are rectified at the developer's expense rather than by taxpayers or electricity consumers. The regulations grant local authorities wider powers to enforce compliance. Councils will be able to: Suspend development permits for non-compliant projects. Block approval of land subdivisions. Refuse to issue rates clearance certificates until developers comply with the regulations. The measures are expected to strengthen oversight of land development and improve coordination between councils and utility providers. Developers or companies that fail to comply with the regulations may face criminal prosecution. Convicted offenders could be fined up to Level 5 or sentenced to up to six months' imprisonment, or both, depending on the offence. The Government says the penalties are intended to discourage the sale of unserviced land and improve standards across Zimbabwe's property development sector. The regulations also introduce a framework allowing independent electricity distribution operators to participate in Zimbabwe's power sector. Private companies will be eligible to operate electricity distribution networks under 25-year renewable licences, which will be awarded through a competitive bidding process. However, the regulations protect consumers by requiring that tariffs charged by licensed private distributors must not exceed ZETDC tariffs approved by the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA). The reforms form part of wider Government efforts to modernise Zimbabwe's electricity sector, improve infrastructure delivery and ensure new housing developments are fully serviced before occupation. Zimbabwe property developers electricity regulations

By Southerton Business Times | Chimanimani Police in Manicaland Province are appealing for information that could help identify the mother of a newborn baby girl who was found abandoned outside Hot Springs Clinic in Chimanimani. The infant was rescued on 1 August 2026 after a group of artisanal miners discovered her near the clinic and alerted police. Acting Manicaland police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka said officers from ZRP Nyanyadzi responded to the report and found the baby alive. "The informant in the matter is Masodzi Chibuwe (48), of Chibuwe Village under Chief Mutambara. Upon receiving the report, police attended the scene and found the baby alive," said Assistant Inspector Chinyoka. He said the newborn appeared to be in stable condition. "The infant appeared physically fit and had no visible signs of physical harm. She was immediately taken into police care before being referred to Mutambara Mission Hospital for further medical attention." Police have opened investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the baby's abandonment and to locate her mother or other relatives. Assistant Inspector Chinyoka appealed to members of the public who may have information to come forward. "We are appealing to anyone with information regarding the identity of the child's mother or any circumstances surrounding the abandonment to report to the nearest police station," he said. "Any information received will be treated with the confidentiality it deserves." Authorities have not released further details about the infant while investigations continue. Cases involving abandoned newborns are treated as child protection matters, with authorities seeking to establish the circumstances that led to the incident while ensuring the child's safety and welfare. Police and child welfare agencies encourage parents and guardians experiencing crises to seek assistance from family members, healthcare workers, social welfare offices, or other support services rather than abandoning children. Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact the nearest police station. Newborn baby abandoned Chimanimani

By Southerton Business Times | Rusape Police in Manicaland are investigating the death of a 69-year-old village head from Rusape whose body was discovered at his home on Tuesday. The deceased, Lukas Mudewaire, of Mudewaire Village, was found by his 76-year-old brother, who had gone to check on his welfare after he had been living alone. Acting Manicaland police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka confirmed the incident, saying police attended the scene after receiving a report from the deceased's brother. "On August 4, he visited his brother and discovered that the bedroom door was open. He knocked on the door, and no one answered," said Assistant Inspector Chinyoka. "Concerned, the brother entered the house and found Mudewaire lying on the floor with no signs of life." Police said officers who attended the scene found no visible injuries on the body. An empty 500ml container was recovered from inside the house as part of the investigation. The body was taken to Rusape General Hospital for a post-mortem examination to establish the cause of death. Assistant Inspector Chinyoka said investigations are continuing and police are awaiting the post-mortem results before drawing conclusions about the circumstances surrounding the death. The incident has renewed attention on the importance of regular welfare checks for elderly people and others who live alone, particularly in rural communities where social isolation can go unnoticed. Community leaders and social welfare advocates encourage families, neighbours and local leadership structures to maintain regular contact with older residents and to look out for signs that someone may need practical or emotional support. Authorities have urged members of the public to avoid speculation while investigations are ongoing. Rusape village head found dead

By Southerton Business Times | Harare The Government has approved a second phase of cost-of-doing-business reforms, introducing fresh cuts to licence fees, levies and regulatory charges across key sectors including agriculture, transport, sport, education and the natural stone export industry. The latest measures, approved by Cabinet, are intended to simplify regulation, eliminate duplicated licences and reduce the financial burden on businesses as Zimbabwe seeks to improve the ease of doing business and stimulate economic growth. Speaking during Tuesday's post-Cabinet media briefing, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda said the reforms build on the first phase of the programme, which reduced several transport-related fees and vehicle registration costs. "Cabinet approved the streamlining of overlapping licences and permits while removing unnecessary fees across the remaining sectors," Dr Soda said. The latest reforms are designed to reduce compliance costs for businesses by removing duplicated regulatory requirements and lowering charges considered unnecessarily high. The measures affect operators in agriculture, transport, sport, education and the natural stone export sector. The Government says reducing the cost of regulatory compliance will improve Zimbabwe's business environment, encourage investment and support economic expansion. Industrial hemp producers are among the biggest beneficiaries of the latest reforms. Cabinet approved reductions in Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA) registration fees for industrial hemp operators, while application processing fees charged by the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) will also be lowered. The changes are expected to reduce barriers to entry for investors in Zimbabwe's emerging industrial hemp industry. Zimbabwe's sports industry will also benefit from significant reductions in statutory levies. Under the new measures: The Sport and Recreation Commission (SRC) levy on gate takings has been reduced from 6% to 3%. The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) levy on gross match-day revenue has also been cut from 6% to 3%. The Premier Soccer League (PSL) levy has been reduced from 10% of net match-day income to 4%. Local authority venue hire levies have been lowered from 15% to 10% of total gross attendance revenue. The Government said the reductions are intended to ease financial pressure on sporting organisations and encourage greater investment in sport. Cabinet also approved additional transport sector reforms aimed at improving service delivery. Government plans to establish a one-stop shop for vehicle ownership transfers to simplify administrative procedures and reduce processing times. Authorities will also formalise the registration of tricycles and introduce a licensing framework for riders. Vehicle change-of-ownership fees will remain unchanged. Local authorities will now be required to cap outdoor advertising charges at US$2.50 per square metre, reducing costs for businesses that rely on billboards and outdoor marketing. Cabinet also approved the abolition of cemetery entry fees, removing a charge that had been levied by some local authorities. Unlike other sectors, education-related statutory charges will remain unchanged. Annual school affiliation fees, Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) affiliation charges and examination fees will continue at current levels. Dr Soda said the latest reforms will come into effect once the required Statutory Instruments have been gazetted. The latest package forms part of the Government's broader programme to improve Zimbabwe's investment climate by reducing regulatory costs, simplifying licensing requirements and making it easier for businesses to operate. Zimbabwe cost of doing business reforms

By Southerton Business Times | Harare Zimbabwe is preparing to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI), coding and robotics as compulsory learning areas from primary school as the Government moves to equip learners with skills needed for an increasingly technology-driven economy. The proposed reforms were announced by Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera during the Abedai National Robotics, Artificial Intelligence and Internet of Things Challenge (ANRAIC) 2026 held at Tynwald Primary School in Harare. Mavetera said digital skills must become a fundamental part of education if Zimbabwe is to produce innovators capable of developing home-grown technologies and competing in the global digital economy. "Zimbabwe’s ambition is to produce innovators who can create home-grown technologies rather than rely on imported digital solutions," she said. The Minister said Government was working with relevant stakeholders to introduce curriculum reforms that will integrate artificial intelligence, coding and robotics across all levels of education. She said exposing learners to emerging technologies from an early age would strengthen skills such as critical thinking, creativity, innovation and problem-solving. According to Mavetera, the reforms are expected to prepare young Zimbabweans for future careers in fields including software development, automation, data science, engineering and digital entrepreneurship. The Government also plans to expand school robotics and coding clubs, establish additional innovation laboratories and increase teacher training programmes to support the implementation of the new learning areas. The proposed education changes are aligned with Zimbabwe’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2026-2030, which seeks to accelerate AI adoption, promote local research and encourage responsible use of emerging technologies. Mavetera said Zimbabwe must move beyond being a consumer of technology and become a producer of digital solutions that address local challenges. She said artificial intelligence could support innovation in key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, mining and environmental management. The Minister added that Government initiatives such as the One Learner, One Device Initiative and the Presidential Internet Scheme would continue expanding access to digital tools and connectivity, especially in rural communities. As more learners gain access to digital platforms, Mavetera said online safety must remain a priority. She said Government would strengthen implementation of the National Child Online Protection Policy through digital citizenship education, awareness campaigns and partnerships involving parents, schools and technology companies. The measures are aimed at protecting children from online risks including cyberbullying, exploitation, harmful content and other forms of digital abuse. Mavetera encouraged young people to use technology to develop solutions for Zimbabwe’s social and economic challenges. She said innovation should not be limited to major cities, adding that creative ideas can emerge from communities across the country if learners are given the right skills and opportunities. The Minister said developing a technology-focused education system would support the country’s Vision 2030 goal of building an upper-middle-income economy and positioning Zimbabwe as a competitive player in Africa’s digital transformation. She urged learners to embrace science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education, saying creativity and persistence would be central to shaping Zimbabwe’s technological future. AI coding and robotics in Zimbabwe schools