By Southerton Business Times Reporter HARARE — ZANU-PF won all four local authority by-elections held on Saturday, 1 August 2026, securing council seats in Mutare and Victoria Falls, with official results showing that a fragmented opposition vote helped the ruling party retain or capture three of the four wards. The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) announced the results late on Saturday following voting in Mutare Municipality Ward 3 and Victoria Falls Municipality Wards 9, 10 and 11. The by-elections were characterised by low voter turnout, with all four wards recording participation rates below 30 percent, while the absence of candidates from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) aligned to Sengezo Tshabangu left most opposition support divided among independent candidates. In Mutare Municipality Ward 3, Portia Gwinjai of ZANU-PF was declared the winner after polling 760 votes. According to Ward Elections Officer Progress Dhliwayo, independent candidate Innocent Mandava finished second with 426 votes, while fellow independent Farai Arutura received 95 votes. Edward Mukambura of the MDC secured 76 votes. Seventeen ballot papers were rejected, while voter turnout stood at 26.5 percent. Even if the opposition votes had been combined, the independent candidates and the MDC would have amassed 597 votes, still 163 votes fewer than the ZANU-PF candidate. In Victoria Falls Ward 11, George Mhlanga of ZANU-PF comfortably defeated independent candidate Daniel Moyo, polling 736 votes against 211. However, the contests in Wards 9 and 10 illustrated how a fragmented opposition vote benefited the ruling party. In Ward 10, Thindolie Sibanda of ZANU-PF won with 291 votes. His challengers, all standing as independents, shared the remaining votes: Nkanyiso Sibindi – 174 votes Abel Muzhuzha – 119 votes Deffin Ndlovu – 16 votes Prince T. Kagande – 13 votes Preston Chuma – 9 votes Ayanda Mathe – 7 votes Tonderai Sagambe – 6 votes Collectively, the independent candidates received 344 votes, exceeding the ZANU-PF tally by 53 votes. Eight ballot papers were rejected, while turnout was 28.17 percent. In Ward 9, the outcome was even closer. Tapiwa Kwadu Sibanda of ZANU-PF secured victory with 287 votes, while independent candidates Simbarashe Mathe, Vusimuzi Sibanda and Liberty Mudenda polled 150, 115 and 22 votes respectively. Remarkably, the three independent candidates' combined total was 287 votes, exactly matching the ZANU-PF candidate's tally. Two ballot papers were rejected, and voter turnout was 27.1 percent. The three Victoria Falls by-elections were triggered after CCC faction leader Sengezo Tshabangu recalled sitting councillors. However, no candidates linked to his faction contested the by-elections, leaving the opposition field largely to independent candidates. Political analysts have long argued that fragmented opposition candidacies under Zimbabwe's first-past-the-post electoral system can significantly influence electoral outcomes by splitting votes among candidates with similar support bases. The latest results reinforce that trend while also highlighting continued voter apathy in local government elections, with turnout remaining below one-third of registered voters in all four wards. ZANU-PF council by-elections 2026

By Southerton Business Times | Harare Fastjet Zimbabwe has marked a major milestone in its expansion strategy after its newly introduced Airbus A320-200 made its maiden landing at Victoria Falls International Airport on Sunday, boosting passenger capacity on two of the country's busiest regional routes. The 168-seat aircraft will operate daily on the Harare–Johannesburg and Victoria Falls–Johannesburg routes, increasing seat availability as demand for regional business and leisure travel continues to recover across Southern Africa. The deployment comes as Zimbabwe's aviation and tourism sectors experience renewed growth, with Victoria Falls remaining one of the country's leading tourist destinations and a key gateway for international visitors. The Government of Zimbabwe described the arrival of the Airbus A320-200 as another important step in the country's efforts to modernise its aviation industry and strengthen regional connectivity. "Zimbabwe has reached another defining milestone in its aviation transformation with the arrival of the Fastjet Airbus A320-200 at Victoria Falls International Airport," the government said in a statement. Officials said the larger aircraft would improve passenger mobility while supporting tourism, business travel, trade and investment between Zimbabwe and neighbouring markets. "With the capacity to accommodate up to 168 passengers, the Airbus A320-200 will significantly enhance Fastjet Zimbabwe's operations through daily services on the Harare-Johannesburg and Victoria Falls-Johannesburg routes," the statement added. Industry experts say increasing airline capacity is essential for sustaining tourism growth in Victoria Falls, which attracts thousands of regional and international visitors annually. Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) chief executive Winnie Muchanyuka has previously stated that improved air access is critical to growing visitor arrivals, noting that increased flight frequencies and additional seats help make Zimbabwe a more competitive tourism destination. The new aircraft is expected to benefit hotels, tour operators and other tourism-related businesses by making travel to Victoria Falls more accessible, particularly for South African travellers, who remain one of Zimbabwe's largest source markets. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), improved regional air connectivity contributes to economic growth by facilitating tourism, investment, trade and employment throughout the aviation value chain. The government said the aircraft's introduction aligns with ongoing investments in transport infrastructure aimed at improving regional integration and supporting economic development. "The expanded capacity is expected to improve passenger mobility, stimulate tourism, facilitate business travel, and strengthen trade and investment linkages across the region," the statement said. Officials also linked the development to President Emmerson Mnangagwa's infrastructure-led development agenda, which seeks to position Zimbabwe as a competitive regional aviation hub. The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development reaffirmed its commitment to building a modern and integrated aviation sector capable of supporting economic transformation and achieving Vision 2030. With Johannesburg serving as Southern Africa's busiest aviation hub, the deployment of the Airbus A320 is expected to strengthen Zimbabwe's regional air links while providing travellers with more seating capacity during peak travel periods. Fastjet Zimbabwe Airbus A320

By Southerton Business Times | Harare Scottland FC have completed their mid-season recruitment campaign after unveiling five international signings from Africa, South America and Europe as the ambitious Zimbabwean club strengthens its squad for the second half of the 2026 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) season. The Harare-based club confirmed that the latest arrivals are the final additions before the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) transfer window closes, with the new recruits expected to bolster the team's domestic title ambitions and preparations for continental football. The five players include Zimbabwean midfielder Seth Patrick, Nigerian defender Al-Ameen Kehinde Tijani, Namibian winger Stoffel Witbeen, Cameroonian striker Neville Tengeg, and Brazilian winger Anderson Cardoso de Campos. Zimbabwean midfielder Seth Patrick joins Scottland FC from English non-league side Royston Town, bringing valuable overseas experience to the club. Patrick is expected to provide creativity and stability in midfield as Scottland look to maintain consistency during the crucial second half of the PSL campaign. His arrival adds competition in the middle of the park and gives the coaching staff additional tactical flexibility ahead of a demanding fixture schedule. Scottland have reinforced every department of the squad through their latest recruitment drive. Nigerian centre-back Al-Ameen Kehinde Tijani arrives from Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), one of Nigeria's most established clubs, where he gained experience in the Nigeria Premier Football League. On the wings, Namibian international Stoffel Witbeen joins from Okahandja United, while Brazilian attacker Anderson Cardoso de Campos arrives from Pouso Alegre to provide pace and creativity in wide attacking areas. Leading the attacking reinforcements is Cameroonian striker Neville Tengeg, who joins from Indonesian side Deltras FC, adding further firepower to Scottland's frontline. Scottland FC's aggressive recruitment reflects the growing trend among ambitious Zimbabwean clubs investing in experienced foreign talent to improve competitiveness in both domestic and continental competitions. Football analyst Kudzai Chitsike told Southerton Business Times that strategic mid-season recruitment can significantly influence a club's title challenge. "Adding quality players during the transfer window increases squad depth and creates healthy competition for places. If the new players adapt quickly, Scottland could become one of the strongest teams in the league heading into the final stretch of the season." The club has not publicly disclosed the financial details of the transfers. Supporters reacted enthusiastically on social media following the announcement. One supporter, Delights Dube, wrote: "Scottland FC is really strengthening their team with these talented players from different countries. Can't wait to see them in action in the CAF Champions League." Another fan, Sim Aj Inv, commented: "Depth is good, especially when you want to compete in the Champions League. Those foreign players will bring healthy competition to the squad." Others described the club's recruitment strategy as evidence of its determination to compete with Zimbabwe's traditional football powerhouses. With the transfer window now closed, attention turns to how quickly the new signings can settle as Scottland FC pursue success in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League and prepare for the challenges of continental football. Scottland FC signings

By Southerton Business Times Reporter HARARE — Young people from Harare South's Ward 12 converged for a full-day soccer and netball tournament on Saturday as part of a community initiative aimed at promoting sport, discouraging drug and substance abuse, and keeping youths positively engaged. The tournament was organised by Zanu-PF District Coordinating Committee (DCC) 6 Secretary for Gender and Culture and Ward 12 Councillor Simon Madzanga, attracting eight netball teams and five Under-17 boys' soccer teams from across the ward. Held from 10 am until late afternoon, the event drew enthusiastic support from residents, community leaders and party officials, including DCC Secretary for Business and Economic Empowerment, Cde Makahamadze. Speaking on the sidelines of the tournament, Councillor Madzanga said the sporting event forms part of broader community efforts to steer young people away from crime, drug abuse and other social ills. "The purpose of the tournament is to remove the youths from the streets so that they spend the day busy," he said. Madzanga said the anti-drug awareness initiative is held periodically rather than on a fixed calendar, allowing organisers to continuously engage young people through constructive recreational activities. He said sport provides a positive platform for developing discipline, teamwork and healthy lifestyles while helping reduce the risk of young people becoming involved in drug and substance abuse. "We want to make these tournaments a regular feature in Ward 12. At the same time, we expect players to uphold discipline and ensure that every match is played according to the rules of the game," he said. The competition attracted teams from across the ward, with participants competing for cash prizes in both the netball and football categories. In the netball tournament, the winning team received US$50, while the runners-up took home US$40. Third and fourth-placed teams received US$30 and US$20, respectively. In the Under-17 boys' soccer competition, the champions walked away with US$50, second place earned US$40, while the third-placed team received US$30. No floating trophy was presented in the football category. Residents welcomed the initiative, describing it as an important investment in young people at a time when communities across Zimbabwe continue to grapple with rising cases of drug and substance abuse among youths. Zimbabwe has intensified anti-drug campaigns in recent years through community-based programmes involving Government, local authorities, schools, churches and civic organisations, with sport increasingly being used as a tool for youth empowerment and crime prevention. Community members urged local leaders, businesses and development partners to continue supporting sporting activities, saying regular tournaments provide safe recreational spaces while nurturing talent that could ultimately feed into provincial and national competitions. Harare South youth tournament

By Southerton Business Times Reporter HARARE — The Government of Zimbabwe has paid US$40 million in compensation to former commercial farmers protected under Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreements (BIPPAs), with 93 farms now benefiting from the programme as authorities move to resolve long-standing land compensation obligations. According to the latest report on Zimbabwe's Structured Dialogue Platform (SDP) Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process, 16 farms have been fully compensated, while 77 have received partial payments under a compensation package valued at US$130.5 million. The programme covers claimants from Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland and the former Yugoslavia, whose farms were acquired during Zimbabwe's Fast-Track Land Reform Programme that began in 2000. The Netherlands accounts for the largest share of beneficiaries, with 44 farms receiving US$20.1 million. Of these, six have been fully compensated while 38 have received partial payments. Switzerland follows with 27 farms receiving US$11.9 million, including four fully compensated properties and 23 partially paid claims. Germany has 14 compensated farms valued at US$4.8 million, while Denmark has seven farms that have collectively received US$2.8 million in partial payments. One farm protected under the former Yugoslavia agreement has received US$400,000. The compensation process was launched in May 2024, when the Government invited applications from BIPPA-protected investors whose properties had been acquired during the land reform programme. Following verification by the Land Compensation Committee, 97 farms were initially declared eligible. However, four properties were later removed from the compensation list after their owners opted for the restoration of title because the farms had not been occupied. This left 93 qualifying farms, with verified claims amounting to US$130.5 million. The report states that 10 farms worth US$1.9 million were fully compensated during the 2024 payment cycle. A further six farms valued at US$2.3 million were fully settled in 2025, bringing the total number of fully compensated properties to 16. Government said compensation payments are being made through an agreed formula under the Land Tenure Reforms, Compensation of Former Farm Owners and Resolution of the BIPPAs Sector Working Group, which distributes annual Treasury allocations equally among qualifying claimants. The 2026 National Budget allocated a further US$20 million towards the programme, while Government has committed to settling the remaining US$70.5 million through allocations in the 2027 and 2028 national budgets. The compensation programme forms part of Zimbabwe's broader economic reform agenda aimed at resolving legacy land issues, strengthening investor confidence and supporting the country's Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process, which seeks to normalise relations with international creditors and development partners. Government has consistently maintained that honouring obligations under BIPPAs is a key step towards rebuilding confidence among foreign investors while addressing historical investment disputes arising from the land reform programme. Zimbabwe BIPPA compensation

By Southerton Business Times Reporter HARARE — The Zimbabwe Combined Residents and Ratepayers Association (ZICORRA) has continued its monthly humanitarian outreach programme, providing food and essential support to vulnerable residents drawn from communities across Harare and surrounding areas. The latest outreach was held on Saturday at Greencroft Church of Christ, where ZICORRA committee members, church volunteers and local youths joined hands to assist elderly people, orphans, people living with disabilities and other disadvantaged members of society. The programme was coordinated by Mrs Chipendo, a member of the ZICORRA Greencroft Committee, with support from representatives of the Church of Christ and young volunteers from the Greencroft community. Lawrence Kuleya, national coordinator for ZICORRA, speaking on behalf of the organisation, said the initiative is part of the organisation's monthly community service programme aimed at easing hardships faced by vulnerable households. "Every month, ZICORRA hosts one of its community outreach programmes where we assist vulnerable residents across different communities in Harare," she said. "Among the beneficiaries are the elderly, orphans, people living with disabilities and others from different categories who are disadvantaged in our communities." She said the programme has continued to attract beneficiaries from a wide geographical area, highlighting the growing need for community-based support initiatives amid difficult economic conditions. According to ZICORRA, beneficiaries travelled from Domboshava, Norton, Budiriro, Dzivaresekwa, Crowborough, Mufakose and Mabelreign, among other areas, to receive assistance. Organisers praised the contribution of church members and local youths, saying volunteerism remains critical in ensuring the programme reaches as many people as possible. "The Church of Christ always sends representatives to assist us, and we were also encouraged by the young people from the community who volunteered their time to help distribute food and support beneficiaries," a committee member said. ZICORRA, the Zimbabwe Combined Residents and Ratepayers Association, is a civil society organisation that advocates for improved service delivery, accountable local governance and the protection of residents' rights. In addition to policy advocacy, the organisation regularly undertakes social welfare initiatives targeting vulnerable households. Community outreach programmes such as the Greencroft initiative have become an important safety net for many families struggling to meet basic needs, particularly the elderly and child-headed households. ZICORRA said it remains committed to working with churches, community leaders, volunteers and development partners to expand its humanitarian programmes while continuing to advocate for improved living conditions in Zimbabwe's urban communities. ZICORRA community outreach

By Southerton Business Times Reporter MAHUSEKWA, Zimbabwe — Police have launched investigations into a suspected murder-suicide in Mahusekwa, Mashonaland East, after a husband and wife were found dead inside their home following an alleged domestic dispute over infidelity. The tragic incident occurred in Mureverwi Village under Chief Nenguwo, where a 52-year-old man is suspected of fatally attacking his 50-year-old wife before taking his own life. Mashonaland East provincial police spokesperson Inspector Simon Chazovachiyi confirmed the incident, saying preliminary investigations suggest the couple had been experiencing marital problems after the husband recently returned from South Africa. "The accused person, Patrick Chamunorwa (52), who was staying in South Africa, returned home this month of July 2026," said Inspector Chazovachiyi. "Since his return, he had been having domestic disputes with his wife, Doreen Bvuta, over infidelity issues." According to police, the couple's 13-year-old daughter made the grim discovery after returning home from school at around 5 pm on July 20. "She entered the bedroom and discovered the body of her mother lying in a pool of blood. She also noticed a hammer near her mother's body and found her father's body hanging from the roof," Inspector Chazovachiyi said. The terrified teenager alerted a neighbour, Tayengwa Kanengoni, who immediately reported the matter to police. Officers attended the scene and opened investigations, while both bodies were taken to Mahusekwa District Hospital mortuary for post-mortem examinations. Police say investigations remain ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the deaths. The latest tragedy adds to growing concern over domestic violence in Zimbabwe, where family disputes continue to account for a significant number of violent crimes. According to the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, intimate partner violence remains one of the country's most pressing human rights challenges, with many cases linked to unresolved family conflicts, economic pressures and controlling behaviour. The Zimbabwe Republic Police has repeatedly urged couples experiencing relationship conflicts to seek assistance from relatives, community leaders, counsellors or recognised mediation structures before disputes escalate into violence. Experts say domestic violence often follows identifiable warning signs, including escalating verbal abuse, threats, coercive control, jealousy and repeated physical assaults. Early intervention and reporting can help prevent tragedies. Police have appealed to members of the public with information that may assist the investigation to contact their nearest police station. Authorities have also encouraged communities to report domestic violence promptly, stressing that timely intervention can save lives. Mahusekwa murder-suicide

By Southerton Business Times Reporter | Masvingo Chief Bota of Zaka, born Tafirenyika Bwazvo, was allegedly assaulted by mourners after a confrontation at a funeral wake where he is accused of demanding US$120 to authorise a burial, blocking access to the homestead, and insulting mourners. The incident occurred on the evening of 28 July 2026 at the funeral wake of Lawrence Chitende, whose body was expected to arrive from South Africa the following day for burial. According to accounts from mourners cited by TellZim News, the traditional leader arrived at the family homestead allegedly intoxicated and immediately demanded payment before burial preparations could continue. Witnesses claimed Chief Bota initially requested US$20 as a notification fee, arguing that the bereaved family should have informed him of the death in accordance with local custom. After the family reportedly paid the amount, he allegedly demanded an additional US$100 to permit the burial in the family's private cemetery located near the homestead. According to those present, the chief allegedly warned that failure to pay would force the family to bury their relative at a distant community cemetery. One villager alleged that the family had already paid US$30 in 2025 to establish the same cemetery following the death of the deceased's sister and believed no further payment was required. Witnesses further alleged that Chief Bota blocked the road leading to the homestead, preventing mourners from accessing the funeral. An audio recording that has since circulated widely on social media purportedly captures a voice identified as the chief accusing several women attending the funeral of witchcraft while using offensive language. He is also alleged to have ordered mourners to stop singing and drumming, despite the deceased being a member of the Zion Christian Church, whose funeral services traditionally include singing and drums. The allegations reportedly angered mourners, who allegedly assaulted the chief before his wife intervened and removed him from the scene. Contacted for comment, Chief Bota confirmed that he had been assaulted but rejected the version of events presented by witnesses. He said the deceased was his maternal uncle and argued that family members should have informed him personally before funeral arrangements commenced. "The deceased is my mother's brother. They did not tell me about the funeral as required by tradition," he said. Chief Bota said he requested a US$20 fine to acknowledge what he considered a breach of custom but later declined to accept the money when it was delivered through an intermediary. He denied demanding US$100, denied insulting mourners and dismissed claims that he blocked the road. According to the chief, seven people whom he described as outsiders from Bikita and other areas later came to his homestead and assaulted him. He also claimed the circulating audio recording had been manipulated. "I never scolded anyone or used vulgar language. They want to tarnish my image because some people are after my chieftaincy," he said. Chief Bota has previously attracted public criticism over his conduct. Residents have in the past complained about his alleged behaviour, while he reportedly caused a disturbance at a Zaka Rural District Council full council meeting after demanding that the local authority grade the road leading to his homestead. The latest incident also recalls a similar case in June 2023 when Ephias Munodawafa, commonly known as Chief Murinye, and three police officers were assaulted by villagers after attempting to stop a burial at a site regarded as sacred under local customs. As no police statement had been issued at the time of publication, Southerton Business Times could not independently verify all allegations made by either side. Chief Bota funeral dispute

By Southerton Business Times Reporter | Geneva, Switzerland Just days after presiding over what many viewed as one of the most successful FIFA World Cup tournaments in history, Gianni Infantino is facing the biggest political crisis of his presidency after abandoning a controversial proposal to sell a stake in FIFA's commercial rights to private investors. The move, which sparked fierce opposition from football associations, senior FIFA officials and stakeholders across the global game, has raised fresh questions about Infantino's political future ahead of FIFA's presidential elections in March 2027. Infantino appeared politically secure after the expanded 104-match FIFA World Cup concluded on 19 July, a tournament widely praised for its organisation, commercial success and global reach. The FIFA president joined Donald Trump during the trophy presentation ceremony at MetLife Stadium, where the pair drew a mixed reception from spectators. The tournament generated record revenues and appeared to strengthen Infantino's position ahead of what was expected to be another unopposed re-election. That momentum changed dramatically following the disclosure of FIFA's investment proposal. Under the plan, FIFA intended to establish a commercial subsidiary known as FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) to manage revenue-generating activities, including the World Cup, broadcasting rights, sponsorships, ticketing and hospitality. The proposal sought to raise US$4.2 billion by selling approximately 20% of the new entity to private investors, valuing the commercial arm at around US$20 billion. The lead investor was expected to be Joshua Kushner through his investment firm Thrive Eternal. FIFA argued that the deal would significantly increase financial distributions to its 211 member associations, with annual allocations projected to rise from US$10 million to US$20 million over the next four-year cycle. For many smaller football associations, particularly in developing nations, the proposal represented a major financial opportunity. The proposal was met with immediate resistance from European football authorities and several senior FIFA officials, who argued that commercial investors could push for larger tournaments, more matches and increased commercialisation at the expense of player welfare and the broader football ecosystem. The Union of European Football Associations reportedly threatened to boycott FIFA competitions unless the proposal was withdrawn. Critics also accused Infantino of failing to consult confederations, national associations and key stakeholders before advancing the plan. Facing mounting opposition, Infantino announced on Friday that FIFA would abandon the proposal. "Having listened carefully to all the views, it has become clear that the project has created divisions that are no longer in the interest of the objective set out in the first place," he said. The controversy has also exposed divisions within FIFA's leadership. Senior adviser Carlos Cordeiro, a former Goldman Sachs banker, resigned after publicly criticising the proposal. Meanwhile, FIFA Chief Operating Officer Kevin Lamour issued a strongly worded statement defending FIFA staff and distancing them from the decision-making process. The public criticism from senior officials has fuelled speculation that Infantino's authority inside FIFA has weakened significantly. Candidates seeking to challenge Infantino must submit nominations by 18 November 2026, four months before FIFA members elect the next president at the organisation's Congress in Rabat, Morocco. Although Infantino remains eligible for another four-year term under FIFA statutes, the latest controversy has prompted renewed speculation about possible challengers. Among the names being discussed are Nasser Al-Khelaifi, who also chairs the European Club Association, and FIFA vice-president Victor Montagliani. While no formal challengers have declared their candidacies, political observers believe the failed investment proposal has created the most serious threat to Infantino's leadership since he became FIFA president in 2016. Gianni Infantino FIFA crisis

By Southerton Business Times Reporter | Makoni, Manicaland A nurse at Nyamazira Clinic in Makoni North, Manicaland, is facing allegations of assault after he allegedly slapped a heavily pregnant woman and kicked her in the abdomen during an altercation over the use of buckets at the clinic's only water tap. The accused, Shingirai Nyongolo, the nurse-in-charge at the clinic, admitted slapping Chipo Gavi-Tsiga, who was nine months pregnant at the time, but denied allegations that he kicked her in the stomach. The incident allegedly occurred on 13 July 2026, just three days before Gavi-Tsiga gave birth. Speaking about the incident, Gavi-Tsiga said the confrontation began when she and other expectant mothers took buckets used in the maternity waiting shelter to the clinic tap to clean them. "We had gone to fetch water and found him at the tap. He complained that we were bringing urinary buckets to the tap," she said. "We explained that we were not using the buckets to relieve ourselves because of our condition, but he insisted that they were dirty." According to Gavi-Tsiga, the disagreement escalated after she challenged the nurse's remarks. "He continued scolding us, and I told him he was being too talkative. He then became angry, kicked me in the stomach and slapped me on my right eye." She said the alleged assault left her with a swollen eye and persistent back pain. Gavi-Tsiga said she reported the matter at Mayo Police Station, where she was advised to first obtain a medical report before a criminal docket could be opened. She said financial difficulties and her recovery following childbirth had prevented her from travelling for a medical examination. "I was assaulted on July 13 and gave birth on July 16. Since then, he has visited our home several times seeking forgiveness," she said. "He initially offered me US$25 and later increased the amount to US$150, but I have not accepted because I am still in pain." Nyongolo acknowledged slapping Gavi-Tsiga but denied kicking her in the abdomen. He said he had instructed expectant mothers not to wash buckets at the clinic's only water source because of hygiene concerns. "I advised the pregnant women not to wash the buckets they use at the tap because it is the only water point we have. I told them to fetch clean water first and wash the dirty buckets elsewhere," he said. According to Nyongolo, the situation escalated after Gavi-Tsiga allegedly insulted him. "The woman then insulted me, saying she would look for the person who had knocked out my teeth and have my remaining tooth removed. I was deeply offended, and I slapped her." He said he later visited the family to apologise and believed his apology had been accepted, although the family still wanted the matter handled by the police. Gavi-Tsiga's husband, Trymore Tsiga, said the family was shocked that a healthcare worker was allegedly involved in assaulting a heavily pregnant woman. "When she was assaulted, her eye was swollen, and she could barely see. We decided to wait until she delivered before pursuing the matter further," he said. "The police have requested a medical report from Rusape General Hospital, but we currently do not have the money for transport, and she is not yet fit to travel. Her eye remains painful, red and swollen." When contacted for comment, Makoni District Medical Officer Dr Tendai Nyafesa said he had not yet been briefed on the allegations. The matter has not yet been brought before the courts. The allegations against Nyongolo remain under police consideration, and no criminal charges have been announced. Makoni nurse assault pregnant woman

By Southerton Business Times Reporter | Harare Government ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) spent ZiG123.6 billion during the first half of 2026, representing 42.5% of the approved national budget, with most institutions utilising less than one-third of their annual allocations, Mthuli Ncube has revealed. Presenting the 2026 Mid-Term Budget and Economic Review in Parliament on Thursday, Ncube said total expenditure and net lending amounted to ZiG123.59 billion against an approved budget of ZiG290.87 billion. When loan repayments are included, total Government spending reached ZiG139.1 billion, equivalent to 46% of the ZiG301.6 billion appropriated for 2026. Budget performance figures show that three spending votes had already exceeded their full-year allocations by the end of June. The Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC) recorded the highest utilisation, spending ZiG17.18 billion against an allocation of ZiG12.01 billion, representing 143% of its annual budget. The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development spent ZiG5.04 billion against a budget of ZiG4.66 billion, reaching 108% utilisation. Loan repayments also exceeded projections, with Government servicing ZiG15.5 billion against a budgeted ZiG10.73 billion, equivalent to 144% of the allocation. Among ministries still operating within their approved budgets, the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion recorded one of the highest utilisation rates, spending 69% of its allocation. The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) also posted high expenditure, utilising 89% of its ZiG514.8 million allocation. The Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training spent 52%, while the Ministry of Defence utilised 51% of its approved budget. Several ministries responsible for public service delivery recorded some of the lowest spending levels. The Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare utilised only 8% of its ZiG12.71 billion allocation after spending ZiG1.03 billion. The Ministry of Mines and Mining Development spent 10%, while the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife utilised 11%. Other institutions with low budget utilisation included: Zimbabwe Media Commission – 11% Office of the Auditor General – 14% Zimbabwe Gender Commission – 16% Zimbabwe Independent Complaints Commission – 16% Office of the Attorney General – 17% Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services – 18% Parliament of Zimbabwe – 19% Key social service ministries also remained below half of their approved budgets. The Ministry of Health and Child Care spent ZiG9.5 billion, representing 33% of its ZiG28.94 billion allocation. The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education utilised 35%, while the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development spent 32%. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development and the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works each utilised 47% of their allocations. Transfers earmarked for Provincial Councils and Local Authorities under Zimbabwe's devolution programme recorded one of the lowest utilisation rates, with only ZiG667.7 million—or 5% of the allocated ZiG14.38 billion—having been disbursed. Ncube said the overall expenditure by Government votes stood at ZiG109.6 billion against a total allocation of ZiG242.2 billion, representing 45% utilisation, while debt interest payments reached 30% of budget and pension expenditure stood at 43%. Zimbabwe budget utilisation 2026

By Southerton Business Times Reporter | Johannesburg South African-based Zimbabwean businessman and philanthropist Moreboys Munetsi has won a R5 million defamation lawsuit against social media user Louisa Jembe after the High Court of South Africa, Gauteng Division, ruled that Facebook posts accusing him of fraud were defamatory and infringed his dignity. The judgment, delivered on 24 July 2026 under case number 2026-090944, found in favour of Munetsi and ordered Jembe to remove the offending content, issue a public apology and pay legal costs. In her ruling, Judge Mabaeng Masenyani Daisy Lenyai held that a statement published on 18 April 2026 through Jembe's Facebook account, "Louisa Official 2," falsely insinuated that Munetsi had been involved in fraudulent activities. The court also found that a video posted on 19 April 2026, in which Jembe addressed Munetsi, violated his constitutional right to dignity. According to the order, Jembe must remove the publications from Facebook and any other social media platforms under her control within 48 hours. The court further directed her to erase all remaining digital traces of the defamatory content by 2 August 2026. "The statement published by the respondent on her Facebook handle (Louisa Official 2) on 18 April 2026, in which she insinuates that the applicant was involved in a fraudulent act, is defamatory," Judge Lenyai ruled. "The video footage published by the respondent... violates the applicant's dignity." In addition to removing the content, the court ordered Jembe to publish an unconditional public apology on her Facebook account. The apology must take the form of a video retracting the defamatory allegations made on 18 and 19 April, regardless of whether the original posts had already been deleted. The ruling also ordered Jembe to pay R300,000 in legal costs on a party-and-party scale, including the costs of counsel. Speaking after the judgment, Munetsi said he would seek further legal action if Jembe failed to comply with the court order. He said he intends to return to court to institute contempt of court proceedings should the respondent fail to remove the posts or publish the required apology within the stipulated time. "If she does not comply with the judgment, we will approach the court for a contempt application and seek the appropriate enforcement measures," Munetsi said. The ruling underscores the growing willingness of South African courts to hold social media users accountable for defamatory online content. Legal experts have increasingly warned that defamatory statements published on platforms such as Facebook, X and TikTok can expose individuals to substantial civil damages and court-ordered apologies, even where posts are later deleted. The judgment reinforces that freedom of expression does not extend to publishing false statements that unlawfully damage another person's reputation or dignity. Moreboys Munetsi defamation case