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The Zim Community Trailblazers Awards returns for its sixth edition in Harare this Friday, celebrating civic leadership, innovation and community impact under the theme Unity in Diversity, Strength in Community ( image source ) Harare — The Zim Community Trailblazers Awards (ZCTA) returns for its sixth edition this Friday at the Pabani Venue in Umwinsidale, with organisers promising an evening of glamour and recognition as civic leaders, entertainers and changemakers gather to celebrate outstanding community impact under the theme Unity in Diversity, Strength in Community. The awards will honour individuals and organisations that have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation and commitment to social development. Over the years, the ceremony has grown into a high-profile national event, drawing nominees and past winners from business, sport, faith groups and the creative arts. Information Minister Jenfan Muswere will serve as guest of honour, reinforcing the national significance of the event. The night is expected to attract celebrities and public figures, with headline musical performances and special appearances by popular personalities including Mai Titi. The programme will feature live entertainment, award presentations and tributes to community stalwarts. The awards are administered by an independent board chaired by Nigel Chanakira, a structure organisers say safeguards the credibility and integrity of the adjudication process. Categories span entrepreneurship, philanthropy, arts and culture, youth leadership and community service. Shortlisted nominees underwent a vetting process combining public nominations, board review and independent verification. Past recipients include notable figures and institutions such as Nigel Chanakira, Dynamos Football Club, Pastor Ruth Musarurwa, Sikandar Raza, Madam Boss, and Dr Vivek and Solanki. Organisers say the awards are designed not only to recognise achievement, but also to catalyse partnerships that help winners scale their community projects. This year’s theme reflects a renewed focus on social cohesion and inclusive development. Organisers say corporate sponsorships and partnerships linked to the event will support follow-up programmes, mentorship initiatives and sustained community development efforts. As Zimbabwe continues to navigate economic and social challenges, the ZCTA aims to highlight resilience and spotlight practical examples of change driven by citizens themselves.

The Ministry of Transport has assured that wildlife protection measures will be enforced during road construction near Hwange National Park as work continues on the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Highway ( image source ) Hwange — The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has assured the public that road contractors operating near Hwange National Park and other protected areas will implement strict measures to protect wildlife and minimise human–wildlife conflict during construction activities. Director of Roads, Engineer Jarawani Kangara, said the ministry is currently negotiating with contractors to ensure road detours and construction plans do not interfere with animal movement corridors. He said the ministry is working closely with the Ministry of Environment and Wildlife and other stakeholders to establish safety protocols that safeguard both communities and wildlife. Concerns were raised by conservationists and residents over the potential ecological impact of road works near sensitive habitats. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest game reserve, is home to diverse wildlife species that rely on intact corridors for survival. The ministry said mitigation measures will include route planning that avoids key habitats, scheduling disruptive works outside breeding and migration periods, and enforcing speed limits and warning signage to reduce roadkill. Contractors will also be required to adopt wildlife-sensitive construction methods, including temporary fencing where necessary, designated wildlife crossing points and community awareness campaigns. Environmental impact assessments and ongoing monitoring will guide implementation. Meanwhile, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona said progress on the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Highway rehabilitation remains on track, with completion expected by mid-2026. He confirmed that eight contractors are currently working on the highway as part of the government’s broader infrastructure modernisation programme. The upgraded highway is expected to improve access to Victoria Falls, reduce travel times, strengthen regional trade and provide economic stimulus to Matabeleland North and surrounding provinces. Conservationists have welcomed the ministry’s assurances but called for published mitigation plans, independent monitoring and active community participation to ensure wildlife protection commitments are upheld.

Zimbabwe has issued a severe weather alert as heavy rains and flash flooding threaten multiple provinces ( image source ) Harare — Authorities have issued a severe weather alert as Zimbabwe braces for heavy rains, intense thunderstorms and a heightened risk of flash flooding across multiple provinces this week. Residents and travellers have been urged to exercise extreme caution as weather conditions deteriorate. Meteorologists warn that a moist and unstable air mass is driving widespread storm activity, with Manicaland, Masvingo, Harare Metropolitan, Mashonaland East and Mashonaland Central among the most affected areas. Forecast models indicate that some districts could receive more than 50mm of rain within 24 hours, accompanied by dangerous lightning, strong winds and possible hail. Saturated soils, steep terrain and overwhelmed drainage systems significantly increase the risk of rapid-onset flooding, landslides and hazardous road conditions. Civil Protection officials have activated contingency measures in coordination with local authorities. These include identifying evacuation centres, pre-positioning relief supplies, and clearing drainage systems in known flood-prone wards. Municipal teams are inspecting bridges, culverts and low-lying routes, while schools and health facilities have been instructed to review emergency response plans and communication protocols for staff and parents. Transport and logistics operators have been advised to adjust schedules, avoid high-risk routes and ensure that drivers carry emergency contacts and first-aid kits. Farmers have been urged to protect inputs and livestock, elevate feed and seed storage above flood lines, and check fencing for storm damage. In urban centres, businesses are reviewing insurance cover and continuity plans, including securing backup power for essential operations. Recent storms have already damaged sections of road infrastructure and public buildings, highlighting the urgency of preparedness. Urban flash flooding has been linked to blocked drainage systems and illegal dumping, prompting councils to appeal to residents and businesses to keep stormwater channels clear. In rural areas, loose soils near hillsides have increased the risk of mudslides, with community leaders mobilising ward volunteers to support vulnerable households, including the elderly and persons with disabilities. Health officials have warned that flooding may contaminate water sources, raise the risk of diarrhoeal diseases and disrupt access to chronic medication. Clinics are preparing for increased patient volumes and advising households to boil water, maintain hygiene supplies and keep essential medicines accessible. Humanitarian partners are coordinating rapid assessments to address potential gaps in shelter, food and water services if displacement occurs. Authorities have urged households to assemble emergency kits containing torches, batteries, dry food, drinking water, waterproof storage for documents and fully charged mobile phones. Families are also being encouraged to agree on meeting points in case of separation during storms. Community groups and ward committees have been advised to share only verified weather updates to avoid panic caused by misinformation. As the rainy season intensifies, officials stress that early action remains the most effective protection. The next 72 hours are expected to be critical in determining the scale of impact as Zimbabwe confronts another spell of severe weather.

Two Zimbabwean nationals have been arrested in Mpumalanga after police seized 200kg of dagga worth R1.2 million from a truck on the N2 near Mahamba ( image source ) Mpumalanga, South Africa — Two Zimbabwean nationals have been arrested after South African Police Service (SAPS) officers intercepted a truck on the N2 near Mahamba and discovered about 200 kilogrammes of compressed dagga valued at approximately R1.2 million. The suspects, identified as Tinashe Chitsamba (40) and Oscar Mutsetemari (45), appeared before the Mkhondo Magistrate’s Court facing charges of dealing in dagga. Authorities are also investigating possible immigration violations linked to their residency status. According to SAPS, the arrest occurred at around 8:35pm on 4 December during routine crime-prevention patrols. Officers stopped and searched the truck, uncovering six large bags of compressed dagga concealed inside. Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects were travelling from Empangeni, with Zimbabwe listed as the intended destination, and that the consignment was allegedly loaded at Tshelejuba, on the eastern side of Mahamba in KwaZulu-Natal. The truck and the narcotics were seized and remain impounded as evidence. Police said the operation forms part of intensified anti-drug trafficking deployments in Mpumalanga, targeting rural and border-adjacent transport corridors used by syndicates to move contraband. With the festive season approaching, authorities have increased patrol visibility and stop-and-search operations, noting that drug trafficking and smuggling typically rise during this period. Analysts say enforcement agencies are focusing on major highways and feeder roads that link KwaZulu-Natal transit hubs to cross-border routes. Prosecutors are expected to confirm the full charge sheet as investigations continue, including the valuation of the seized drugs and any immigration-related offences. If convicted, the suspects face heavy fines and lengthy prison sentences under South African law, particularly given the scale and cross-border nature of the alleged crime. SAPS has urged communities and businesses along highway corridors to report suspicious cargo movements and preserve CCTV footage when incidents occur, as such intelligence remains critical in dismantling trafficking networks.

A Kwekwe man has been remanded in custody after allegedly pouring suspected sulphuric acid on his wife during a domestic dispute ( image source ) Kwekwe — A 30-year-old man has been remanded in custody after allegedly pouring a corrosive substance, believed to be sulphuric acid, on his wife during a domestic dispute, a case that has sparked public outrage as Zimbabwe observes the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The accused, identified as Shakemore Manyepa, appeared before the Kwekwe Magistrates’ Court following his arrest. According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), the incident occurred on 26 November at around 7:30pm when Manyepa allegedly arrived home intoxicated. Prosecutors say he began burning groceries he had earlier purchased, triggering an argument with his wife. The dispute escalated, culminating in the alleged attack using the corrosive substance. The victim was rushed for medical treatment following the assault. The court remanded Manyepa in custody as investigations continue. Prosecutors indicated that further medical reports and witness statements will be added to the case docket, with the use of a corrosive substance expected to be treated as an aggravating factor when formal charges are confirmed. Legal experts note that cases involving chemical attacks rely heavily on medical evidence, forensic analysis and eyewitness testimony. Courts may also issue protective orders and refer survivors to victim-friendly services. Magistrates have previously stressed the need for timely reporting, medical examination and preservation of evidence in GBV prosecutions. Civil society organisations and health professionals have condemned the attack, calling for a comprehensive response that includes strict law enforcement, survivor-centred care and expanded access to trauma counselling and safe shelters. Community leaders have renewed calls for zero tolerance to domestic violence and for early intervention before disputes escalate into life-altering violence. Authorities have also warned against the illegal possession and misuse of hazardous substances, reminding the public that such actions carry severe criminal consequences. Police have appealed for witnesses to come forward to assist investigations, while the survivor continues to receive medical and psychosocial support.

Zimbabwe coach Dino Marinica criticises Fifa’s late player release ruling after it disrupted the Warriors’ AFCON preparations ( image source ) Harare — Zimbabwe national team coach Dino Marinica has expressed frustration after a Fifa ruling on player release dates disrupted the Warriors’ preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The decision, which changed the timing of club-to-country player transfers for the tournament window, forced last-minute adjustments to training schedules and squad assembly. Marinica said the late arrival of key players limited tactical work and team cohesion ahead of competitive fixtures. “When players arrive late, it reduces our time to implement systems and build match fitness together,” he told reporters. He emphasised the need for better synchronisation between international windows and club commitments to safeguard national-team readiness. The Fifa directive meant several foreign-based Warriors were released later than expected. The technical team had to rely on locally based players during early sessions, fast-track fitness assessments for late arrivals, and adjust tactical plans accordingly. Marinica said tailored sessions helped integrate latecomers, but the compressed timeline restricted set-piece drills and tactical repetitions. Logistical challenges also emerged, including travel rearrangements, expedited medical clearances, and accelerated registration procedures for AFCON. Support staff worked overtime to ensure compliance with tournament rules and manage player welfare during the condensed preparation period. The episode underscores ongoing tensions between clubs and national teams over player release timing. Clubs seek to protect competitive interests and manage workloads, while national teams demand uninterrupted preparation for major tournaments. Marinica called for earlier, clearer communication from governing bodies to prevent last-minute disruptions. Football administrators say better calendar planning and coordination between Fifa, continental confederations, and domestic leagues is key. “Predictable windows and transparent rules help coaches plan and protect players’ health,” said a federation official. Despite the setback, Marinica praised the locally based players who stepped up and said the squad would focus on tactical simplicity, physical conditioning, and individualised training to offset lost preparation time. Supporters and pundits will closely monitor whether the disruption affects Zimbabwe’s early AFCON performances.

Ex-Supreme Court judge’s driver and associate arraigned in Bulawayo over US$4,800 fraud case ( image source ) Bulawayo — A former driver to a Supreme Court judge and an associate were arraigned this week in Bulawayo provincial magistrate’s court over allegations of defrauding a woman of US$4,800, prosecutors said. The accused allegedly promised to secure bail pending appeal for her incarcerated husband. Court records identify the accused as Henry Ntini (39) and Zamani Gwizi (47), both of whom pleaded not guilty. The State alleges they falsely represented their ability to influence judicial outcomes and received money from the complainant under that pretext. Legal counsel represented both men as the matter entered the evidence-gathering phase. “The accused allegedly exploited the complainant’s vulnerability by promising a legal outcome they could not deliver,” a court official said. Prosecutors told the court the complainant handed over the funds after being assured her husband’s bail would be secured. Investigators say the accused failed to produce the promised outcome, and subsequent inquiries revealed no legitimate legal proceedings were initiated on her behalf. The case now depends on documentary evidence, witness testimony, and bank records, which prosecutors will present as they build their file. Magistrates will assess the strength of the State’s case when ruling on bail and scheduling trial dates. Fraud in Zimbabwe carries significant penalties, particularly where premeditation or exploitation is proven. The accused’s previous association with the judiciary has heightened public interest, prompting calls for transparency. Civil society groups and legal observers stressed the importance of due process while noting potential reputational damage to confidence in justice institutions. Analysts highlight the risks of engaging intermediaries who claim undue influence and emphasise that citizens should always seek formal legal representation. Victim-support organisations have urged protective measures for the complainant, including confidentiality and access to legal aid. Authorities reminded the public to report fraud promptly and preserve receipts, messages, or bank transfer records that may assist investigations. The magistrate has set further hearings as the State compiles additional evidence, while the accused remain in custody pending the next appearance. Beyond the immediate case, stakeholders say the matter underscores the need for oversight of individuals claiming influence within legal systems and public education on lawful avenues for bail and appeals. Strengthening legal aid and improving access to affordable counsel may reduce the market for unscrupulous intermediaries. As proceedings continue, observers will watch for a fair and timely adjudication that balances the rights of the accused with protection for vulnerable citizens.

ZERA debunks viral US$100 monthly solar tax claim in Zimbabwe, urging households and businesses to rely on verified sources and warning that any legitimate policy changes will follow consultative procedures ( image source ) Harare — The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has dismissed a viral social-media claim suggesting a US$100 monthly levy on household solar systems, calling the message false and warning the public against acting on unverified information. The post, which spread rapidly on WhatsApp and other platforms, caused alarm among homeowners and small businesses that rely on rooftop solar and off-grid systems amid erratic grid supply. ZERA’s official statement described the claim as malicious misinformation and urged consumers to rely only on notices published through verified channels. “There is no proposal, consultation or statutory instrument before ZERA that would introduce a US$100 monthly solar tax,” the regulator said. Officials noted that the rumour coincided with rising interest in household solar, amplifying its impact. Solar installers and retailers reported spikes in inquiries from concerned customers, while some prospective buyers delayed purchases pending clarity. Industry representatives warned that misinformation could discourage investment in a sector increasingly critical for household resilience and small-business operations. Analysts identified three factors driving the viral claim: heightened public interest in solar, limited digital literacy among certain users, and a tendency to forward sensational messages without verification. ZERA emphasised that any changes to tariffs, levies, or licensing rules would follow formal processes involving public consultation, published draft regulations, and parliamentary oversight where required. Regulatory experts noted that while ZERA oversees licensing and tariff frameworks, ad hoc taxes would require Treasury approval and legal instruments. Practical advice for households and businesses: • Verify official sources: Check ZERA’s website and verified social accounts for policy notices. • Keep purchase records: Warranties and invoices protect consumers if suppliers change terms. • Consult installers: Reputable solar providers can clarify current licensing and maintenance obligations. • Report misinformation: Forward suspicious claims to fact-checking services or regulatory hotlines. Consumer groups welcomed ZERA’s clarification but called for stronger public education on distributed generation regulation, including plain-language guides on licensing, net-metering, and system-owner responsibilities. Zimbabwe’s solar market has grown as households and businesses seek reliable power and cost savings. Industry players emphasise that regulatory certainty is crucial to attract investment in local assembly, financing products, and after-sales networks. Misinformation suggesting punitive levies could deter lenders and slow deployment of productive off-grid capacity. ZERA concluded by urging media outlets and community leaders to help curb the spread of false claims and direct the public to official communications. The regulator reiterated: no US$100 solar tax exists, and any legitimate policy change will follow transparent, consultative procedures.

Residents of Chivi South are demanding tougher policing, faster prosecutions and expanded rehabilitation services as drug peddling and substance abuse threaten young lives and community stability ( image source ) Chivi South — Residents of Chivi South have intensified pressure on law enforcement and local authorities to take decisive action against an escalating drug-peddling crisis that community leaders say is destroying social cohesion and endangering young lives. The demand was made during a packed community meeting at the ward hall on Tuesday night, where elders, religious leaders, teachers, parents and youth representatives united behind calls for tougher policing, faster prosecutions and a coordinated prevention strategy that combines enforcement with rehabilitation. The meeting followed a string of recent arrests and several reported overdoses that residents say have left families traumatised. “Our children are being stolen from us one sachet at a time. We need action that stops dealers, not just words,” one community elder said. Residents reported that illicit substances, including crystal methamphetamine and cheap locally produced drugs, are now increasingly visible at trading centres and along commuter routes. Teachers spoke of rising absenteeism and worsening discipline in schools, while health workers confirmed an increase in drug-related admissions at local clinics. The community’s demands centred on three priorities: stronger local policing through increased patrols and targeted operations; swift investigations and prosecutions to deter repeat offenders; and expanded prevention and rehabilitation efforts through youth outreach, counselling services and NGO partnerships. Local councillors pledged to escalate the matter to district authorities and to lobby for additional police resources. “We will not allow Chivi South to become a haven for dealers. These resolutions will be taken to district command,” one councillor said. Police acknowledged the scale of the problem but cited limited resources as a major constraint. A senior officer said recent arrests had been made but stressed that successful prosecutions rely heavily on community cooperation and witness testimony. Community leaders warned that enforcement alone will not solve the crisis. Youth representatives pointed to unemployment, school dropouts and the lack of recreational facilities as key drivers of drug abuse. “If there are no jobs and no hope, young people look for escape. We must create real alternatives,” a youth organiser said. Health professionals called for the urgent expansion of addiction support services. The nearest rehabilitation facilities are located far from Chivi South, placing additional strain on families. NGOs attending the meeting offered to support mobile counselling services and community awareness campaigns, subject to funding and local coordination. The meeting ended with resolutions to launch a neighbourhood watch programme, establish an anonymous tip hotline and submit a petition to the district prosecutor calling for the prioritisation of drug-related cases. A multi-stakeholder taskforce bringing together police, health workers, educators and civil society is also set to oversee a six-month action plan. Residents vowed to reconvene in 30 days to assess progress, stressing that they now expect measurable results, not assurances.

Compassion Help Network is combining hardware retail and social impact by reinvesting 15% of profits into a transparent community support fund for vulnerable households across Zimbabwe ( image source ) Harare — In a business environment shaped by tight margins and survival-driven models, Compassion Help Network (CHN) is positioning itself differently by embedding social responsibility directly into its commercial operations. Founded by entrepreneur Joseph Mushipe, the electrical and hardware supplier has committed to reinvesting 15 percent of its profits into a Community Support Fund aimed at assisting vulnerable households, including the elderly, widows and orphans across Zimbabwe. CHN operates as a conventional supplier of electrical, plumbing, construction and solar products, but with a formalised social-impact structure built into its revenue model. The company says every sale contributes to a ring-fenced fund dedicated to monthly food hampers, emergency assistance, medical support and small grants for families in crisis. All disbursements, according to the company, will be fully documented and independently audited to ensure transparency. “The business must grow, but its real purpose is to serve those living in hardship,” Mushipe said. The Community Support Fund is central to CHN’s operating philosophy, functioning as a permanent profit-linked allocation rather than an occasional donation drive. The company’s framework prioritises food security through monthly hampers for elderly households, emergency relief for families affected by fire, illness or sudden income loss, targeted support for widows and orphans through school essentials and small grants, and healthcare assistance in partnership with local clinics. CHN says it will publish annual social-impact reports detailing beneficiaries, disbursement figures and programme outcomes, verified through independent audits. Zimbabwe’s hardware sector continues to record steady demand driven by home renovations, informal construction and rising interest in solar and off-grid energy solutions. CHN is targeting this market while positioning credibility and transparency as its competitive advantage. Mushipe argues that public trust has been eroded by organisations that solicit donations without demonstrable results. “We show exactly who we help, why, and how. Every dollar is accounted for,” he said. Early endorsements have come from churches, community elders and youth organisations who view the business as both a commercial supplier and a vehicle for targeted local support. The company’s marketing strategy combines digital campaigns on social media platforms with street-level promotions in Harare’s high-traffic zones, commuter-focused radio advertising and partnerships with churches, schools and community associations. CHN says community drives, branded outreach and local hiring will be used to build both visibility and accountability, supported by regular community feedback forums. To scale operations, CHN is currently seeking capital to expand inventory, open a physical shopfront, strengthen delivery logistics and recruit staff. The company is offering a proposed profit-sharing structure to investors on a 55/45 split in favour of investors, subject to negotiation and due diligence. Funds raised will be directed toward stock procurement, shop setup, logistics, marketing and operational systems. Governance measures include detailed bookkeeping, quarterly performance reporting and independent audits to protect both investor interests and the integrity of the Community Support Fund. Mushipe acknowledges that CHN faces challenges, including limited start-up capital, price volatility in the hardware sector and the risk of mission drift as the business grows. Mitigation measures include phased expansion, diversification of suppliers and strict financial controls. Long-term ambitions include opening multiple branches nationwide, expanding deeper into solar and agricultural hardware, establishing a formal foundation to manage humanitarian programmes and constructing a warehouse to reduce procurement costs. As Zimbabwe continues to grapple with unemployment and constrained public welfare systems, CHN’s model presents a test of whether disciplined commercial growth can sustainably fund structured community support. For its founders and early partners, the success of the venture will ultimately be measured not only in financial performance but in verified social impact.

Sweden has announced the closure of its embassy in Harare and the end of bilateral development aid to Zimbabwe ( image source ) Harare — Sweden has announced plans to close its embassy in Harare and to terminate bilateral development assistance to Zimbabwe, marking a significant shift in relations between the Scandinavian donor and the southern African nation. The decision, confirmed through Swedish diplomatic channels, reflects a broader recalibration of Stockholm’s foreign aid and engagement strategy. Swedish officials said the move follows a comprehensive review of bilateral relations and development cooperation priorities. While detailed reasons were not publicly outlined, the decision was framed as part of a wider reassessment of how Sweden channels development support globally. The embassy closure will affect diplomatic representation, consular services and the direct coordination of projects previously funded through bilateral arrangements. The suspension of bilateral aid is expected to disrupt programmes in governance, human rights, health and community development, sectors where Swedish funding has historically played a role. Local non-governmental organisations and implementing partners that relied on Swedish grants may face funding gaps, project delays or the need to seek alternative donors. Analysts say rural development initiatives and civil society programmes are particularly exposed to abrupt funding shifts. Swedish authorities indicated that some support could continue through multilateral or humanitarian channels, but confirmed that bilateral assistance instruments would be wound down. The withdrawal also reduces Sweden’s diplomatic footprint in Harare, potentially complicating consular support for Swedish nationals and narrowing direct diplomatic engagement. Business groups note that embassy closures can affect investor confidence, as diplomatic missions often facilitate trade, investment dialogue and dispute resolution. Zimbabwean authorities had not issued a detailed response at the time of reporting, though previous donor exits have typically prompted appeals for dialogue and transitional support. Practical next steps are expected to include formal notices, timelines for staff redeployment and handover arrangements for any remaining projects. Swedish authorities are anticipated to issue guidance to partners and beneficiaries on winding down programmes and accessing alternative funding where possible. Zimbabwe’s foreign ministry and development agencies are also likely to engage other bilateral and multilateral partners to mitigate disruption. Observers say the development highlights the vulnerability of aid-dependent programmes and reinforces the need for diversified funding and stronger domestic resource mobilisation. For Zimbabwe, managing the immediate shocks while strengthening long-term self-financing strategies for public services will be critical.

A Mutare-based tax consultant broke down in tears during a Supreme Court hearing over alleged tax irregularities ( image source ) A rare emotional scene unfolded at Zimbabwe’s Supreme Court on Tuesday after a Mutare-based tax consultant broke down in tears during a hearing, forcing the presiding judge to briefly halt proceedings. The consultant was appearing before the apex court to appeal a lower court ruling in a case involving alleged tax irregularities. Court observers said the breakdown occurred midway through legal submissions, underscoring the immense personal strain associated with the prolonged legal battle. Prosecutors accuse the consultant of misrepresenting client tax filings, allegedly resulting in significant losses to state revenue. The defence maintains that the charges are unfounded and politically motivated, arguing that the consultant acted within the confines of the law. The case has drawn wide attention within professional circles due to its implications for tax compliance and accountability in Zimbabwe’s financial sector. Legal analysts note that tax-related disputes in the country often take years to conclude, with severe financial and reputational consequences for those involved. Civil society groups and legal experts have renewed calls for the reform of tax dispute resolution mechanisms, arguing that prolonged litigation undermines confidence in both the justice system and voluntary tax compliance. While supporters of the consultant describe him as a long-serving and diligent adviser to businesses in Mutare, critics insist that strict accountability is necessary to preserve trust in the tax system. The Supreme Court is expected to deliver its judgment in the coming weeks. If the appeal fails, the consultant could face penalties ranging from heavy fines to possible imprisonment or professional suspension. Beyond the legal issues, the incident has reignited discussion on mental health pressures within the legal and professional sectors, where prolonged uncertainty and public scrutiny often take a heavy emotional toll.