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Doctors with a Lassa patient Nigeria has recorded a decline in new Lassa fever infections, but health authorities warn that the disease is becoming more deadly as patients delay seeking treatment. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) said 65 new cases were reported in the last week of February, down from 77 in the previous week. However, the case fatality rate has risen sharply to over 23%, compared to just under 19% during the same period last year. The NCDC attributed the higher death rate largely to delayed treatment, as well as poor sanitation and low levels of awareness in high-burden communities. Health officials say early diagnosis is critical to improving survival outcomes. The agency is supporting local authorities with intensified surveillance, contact tracing, and the deployment of rapid response teams to infection hotspots. Personal protective equipment is also being distributed to health facilities. According to the NCDC, people aged between 21 and 30 account for the highest number of infections, while cases among healthcare workers have also increased. Lassa fever is a viral haemorrhagic illness in the same family as Ebola and Marburg virus disease, which can cause fever, vomiting, and, in severe cases, internal bleeding. The disease was first identified in 1969 in the town of Lassa and remains endemic in parts of West Africa. While about 80% of infections are mild or asymptomatic, severe cases can be life-threatening, particularly when treatment is delayed. There is currently no licensed vaccine for Lassa fever, making prevention and early medical intervention critical to controlling outbreaks. Lassa fever Nigeria

Apostle Dickson Nhumwa Harare, Zimbabwe- A potential legal battle between two prominent religious figures has been averted after Apostle Dickson Nhumwa  issued a public apology to Evangelist Trymore Muparinga. The apology follows a wave of online controversy sparked by unfounded allegations involving the misuse of church funds and personal misconduct. The conflict reached a boiling point after Nhumwa released a 92-second video accusing Muparinga of using church offerings to purchase alcohol and seduce women. However, following a police report and intervention from senior church elders, Nhumwa released a concise 22-second video to set the record straight. The Admission: Nhumwa admitted that his previous claims were "unfounded" and driven by an emotional overreaction. The Quote: "My brother, Evangelist Muparinga, I want to apologise to you for overreacting to an issue I have heard. It was so personal. I love you, my brother." The Legal Status: Evangelist Muparinga had previously filed a police report for cyberbullying , a charge that carries significant weight under Zimbabwe's current cyber laws. This incident is not Apostle Nhumwa’s first experience with public scrutiny. His leadership style previously led to a fractured relationship with Masvingo Heartfelt International Ministries, where congregation members reportedly distanced themselves due to his "contentious" approach to governance. Evangelist Muparinga has accepted the apology, citing a desire for peace and the successful mediation of senior leaders. "God wants peace." — Evangelist Trymore Muparinga Apostle Dickson Nhumwa apology Trymore Muparinga

Somalia Somalia has raised concerns over alleged plans by Israel to establish a military base in the breakaway region of Somaliland , warning it does not want its territory drawn into external conflicts. The proposed base, if confirmed, would sit near the Gulf of Aden , opposite Yemen, a strategically important location that could enable Israel to conduct airstrikes and military operations across the region. Analysts say such a presence could expand Israel’s operational reach against adversaries, including the Houthis in Yemen, as well as Iran and the Hezbollah group in Lebanon. Israel became the first UN member state to recognise Somaliland’s independence in December, marking a significant diplomatic shift and deepening ties between the two. While initial reports suggested the relationship could remain diplomatic, officials in Somaliland indicated earlier this year that a potential Israeli military presence could not be ruled out. Somalia, which considers Somaliland part of its sovereign territory, has reacted with alarm to the developments. Authorities in Mogadishu warned that any foreign military presence in Somaliland risks escalating tensions and drawing the Horn of Africa into broader geopolitical conflicts. Officials stressed that Somalia does not want its territory used as a platform for external military operations or regional confrontations. The reported plans come amid ongoing regional instability linked to conflicts involving Israel and Iran-aligned groups, raising concerns about a wider escalation. Israel Somaliland military base

Sandra Nbebele MAPHISA —   The organisers of this year’s Independence Day gala  have unveiled a star‑studded roster of performers drawn from Zimbabwe’s ten provinces, with 29 artistes confirmed to appear at the Minda High School grounds on 18 April . The gala will form part of the national Independence Day celebrations taking place at Maphisa Growth Point. Performances are scheduled to begin at 6 pm on 18 April and continue into the following morning, offering a mix of contemporary, traditional, and choral acts intended to showcase the country’s musical diversity. The official lineup features household names and rising stars, including Sandra Ndebele, Jeys Marabini, Clement Magwaza, Mavusani, and The Chimurenga Vocalists, Dereck Mpofu, Andy Muridzo, the LMG Choir, and the Mbare Chimurenga Choir. Also on the bill are Zinjaziyamluma, Black Umfolosi, Ndolwane Super Sounds, Chief Hwenje, Khonangale, Indosakusa The Morning Star, Iyasa, Ma9Nine, Godolude, Bhadilah, Chase Skuza, Jah Master, Sasha, Bolamba Culture Birds, Ndux Makadii, Suluman Chimbetu, Ufasimba Home of Arts, DT Bio Mudimba, and Dubai Masters. Organisers say the mix of choirs, traditional ensembles, and solo performers is designed to reflect Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage while delivering an entertaining programme for families and visitors. The gala will be hosted on the main stage by Thulani Munyadi, Leonard Ncube, Nqobile Malinga, and Cde Phil Moyo. The event format will alternate between musical sets and cultural presentations, with choral performances and traditional dances interspersed among headline acts. Organisers have emphasised that the gala is a community celebration intended to complement the official Independence Day programme at Maphisa Growth Point and to provide a platform for artists from across the country. Date and time: 18 April, from 6 pm until the following morning. Venue: Minda High School grounds, Maphisa Growth Point. Lineup: 29 artists representing all ten provinces. Hosts: Thulani Munyadi, Leonard Ncube, Nqobile Malinga, Cde Phil Moyo. Further logistical details, including ticketing, security arrangements, and transport, are expected to be released by event organisers in the coming weeks. Independence Day gala lineup Maphisa 2026

MSU Campus Gweru MASVINGO —   The High Court in Masvingo has ruled in favour of the Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU) , overturning the suspension of five Midlands State University (MSU) students who were expelled for allegedly conducting an unsanctioned recruitment exercise on 25 February 2025. The court found the disciplinary measures unlawful and politically motivated, ordering the immediate lifting of suspensions for four students and suspending the expulsion of a fifth pending further proceedings. The High Court’s judgment allows Keegan Mathe, Fanuel Gona, Nester Moyo, and Tanaka Sibanda to return to their studies with immediate effect. The expulsion of Takunda Mashasha has been suspended, enabling him to resume academic activities in January 2027. ZINASU had challenged the disciplinary action taken by MSU after the university’s vice‑chancellor, Ngonidzashe Muzvidziwa , cited breaches of the institution’s Rules of Student Conduct and Discipline . The union argued the suspensions were unlawful and politically motivated, a position the court accepted. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), ZINASU condemned political interference in university affairs and hailed the ruling as a vindication of student rights and academic freedom. The union urged universities to respect due process and avoid punitive measures that lack a legal basis. Legal observers say the ruling reinforces judicial oversight of university disciplinary procedures and underscores the need for transparent, fair processes when dealing with student conduct. The decision may prompt other student bodies to seek legal redress where they believe disciplinary actions are arbitrary or politically influenced. What this means for MSU and students Reinstatement: Four students are immediately reinstated and may resume classes and assessments. Conditional return: One student, whose expulsion was suspended, will return in January 2027 under the court’s terms. Policy review: Universities may face pressure to review disciplinary policies and ensure compliance with constitutional protections and administrative law. Precedent: The case sets a legal precedent for challenging university sanctions perceived as unfair or politically charged. The university may consider appealing the High Court decision if it believes procedural or substantive errors occurred. Meanwhile, student groups, legal advocates, and higher education stakeholders will likely monitor MSU’s response and any institutional reforms to disciplinary procedures. ZINASU High Court victory 2026

Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (Zimsec)   Bulawayo, Zimbabwe- A 50-year-old Claremont resident, Anele Sipho Zikhali, has been sentenced to 420 hours of community service after pleading guilty to forging Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (Zimsec)  certificates. The forged documents were intended for prominent businessman and politician Gift Banda, a move that prosecutors argue severely undermines the credibility of Zimbabwe’s education system. Appearing before Bulawayo Provincial Magistrate Temba Chimiso , Zikhali faced an initial sentence of 18 months in prison. However, the court opted for a non-custodial path following strong mitigation from the defense. Sentence Breakdown: 18 months total; six months suspended for five years on good behavior. The remaining 12 months were suspended on the condition of completing community service. Placement: Zikhali will serve his 420 hours at Waterford Primary School. Mitigation: Defense counsel Simbarashe Innocent Madzivire successfully argued that as the sole breadwinner for five children, Zikhali’s incarceration would cause undue hardship to his family. The court heard that in 2024, Zikhali manufactured a fraudulent Ordinary Level certificate for Gift Banda, falsely claiming the politician had sat for exams in November 1986. The scheme was intercepted by the Police Anti-Corruption Unit  following a tip-off. Detectives recovered: The forged certificate. A laptop used for forgery. A cellphone containing incriminating communication. Notably, Gift Banda was not put on trial during this session because a key witness was reportedly unable to attend court due to illness. Prosecutor Samuel Mpofu voiced strong opposition to the lenient sentence, asserting that such crimes discredit the hard work of millions of students. He argued that academic forgery targets the very heart of the nation's meritocracy and that a custodial sentence would have served as a more effective deterrent against the growing "fake certificate" industry. Anele Sipho Zikhali Zimsec forgery Bulawayo

Keir Starmer after the British prime minister said the UK would not be drawn into a wider conflict with Iran WASHINGTON  – Donald Trump has criticised Keir Starmer after the British prime minister said the UK would not be drawn into a wider conflict with Iran, despite rising tensions in the Gulf. The row centres on the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil shipping route that has become a flashpoint as fears grow that Tehran could disrupt energy supplies. Trump has been urging allies to help patrol the narrow waterway, arguing that countries benefiting from oil shipments through the strait should contribute to its security. But Starmer signalled a more cautious approach, emphasising diplomacy over military escalation. “While taking the necessary action to defend ourselves and our allies, we will not be drawn into the wider war. We will keep working towards a swift resolution that brings security and stability back to the region,” Starmer said. He warned that a prolonged conflict would deepen global instability and worsen economic pressures at home. “I want to see an end to this war as quickly as possible, because the longer it goes on, the more dangerous the situation becomes, and the worse it is for the cost of living back here at home,” he added. Starmer said discussions on maritime security were ongoing with the United States, Gulf partners, and European allies, but stressed that no final decisions had been taken. “It’s obviously a difficult question … in relation to how you safeguard maritime traffic,” he said. He also cautioned against allowing the conflict to create geopolitical advantages for Vladimir Putin, warning that instability in the Gulf could have wider global consequences. The Strait of Hormuz lies between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman and serves as the only sea passage from the Gulf to the open ocean. It is one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, carrying a significant share of global oil shipments. Any disruption to traffic through the strait could send shockwaves through global markets and push energy prices sharply higher. Trump said he was “not happy” with Britain’s position, warning that reluctance among allies to take a stronger role could strain Western security cooperation. He suggested the situation could be “very bad for the future” of NATO if partners fail to step up. So far, several European governments have also shown caution about joining any expanded military operation in the region. For now, Britain appears determined to hold its line supporting efforts to secure maritime routes while avoiding direct involvement in a broader war. Analysts say the divide highlights growing tensions within Western alliances over how to respond to the escalating crisis, balancing security concerns with the risks of a wider regional conflict. Trump Starmer Iran war

Suspects on their way to court A suspected armed robber, Bibience Bondamakara of Ruwa, appeared before the Harare Regional Magistrates' Court on Saturday, facing charges of robbing ABC Auctions of more than US$1.2 million in cash and jewellery in a suspected carefully planned heist. Bondamakara was arraigned before Magistrate Learnmore Mapiye on a charge of armed robbery. Prosecutor Kudakwashe Muza told the court the robbery occurred in the early hours of October 8, 2022. According to the State, the accused and his accomplices scaled a precast wall surrounding the premises at around 1 am while armed with pistols. They allegedly overpowered security guards, tying their hands and legs with shoelaces before confiscating mobile phones, a panic button, and bloodhounds. The gang is said to have forced one of the guards to restrain the dogs while they broke into the main office. Using grinders and explosives, they allegedly forced open six safes. Prosecutors say the suspects made off with US$1,014,000 in cash and jewellery valued at US$250,000, bringing the total value of stolen property to US$1,264,031. The stolen items reportedly included high-end watches, gold rings, diamonds, necklaces, gold coins, and luxury goods such as a Rolex Oyster Perpetual 18k gold watch , Cartier fountain pens, and a gold link bracelet. Investigators later received intelligence linking Bondamakara to the robbery and other suspected criminal activities. A police raid at his residence, conducted in the presence of his wife, Fransisca Marume, led to the recovery of some of the stolen jewellery valued at US$100,656. However, the suspect allegedly evaded arrest at the time. After several months on the run, Bondamakara was arrested on March 12 and is now in custody pending trial. ABC Auctions robbery Zimbabwe

Alfred Shumba A key suspect in Zimbabwe’s high-profile 2021 US$2.7 million ZB Bank cash-in-transit robbery has been arrested after allegedly being betrayed by his own brother, authorities confirmed in court on Monday. Alfred Shumba, who had reportedly been hiding in South Africa since the robbery, appeared before Harare magistrate Jessie Kufa following his arrest. His capture reportedly stemmed from a tip-off after a fallout with his brother over missing cash believed to be part of the stolen money. According to prosecutors, Shumba left a portion of the loot in his brother’s custody when he fled Zimbabwe. However, a dispute arose when he later demanded the money back, prompting the brother to alert authorities. The robbery occurred on January 6, 2021, and remains one of Zimbabwe’s most significant cash-in-transit heists in recent years. A gang of armed robbers intercepted a security team transporting seven boxes of cash valued at US$2,775,000. The money was reportedly destined for multiple ZB Bank branches across the country, including Chinhoyi, Kadoma, Kwekwe, Gweru, Bulawayo, Gwanda and Zvishavane. Court papers indicate that the gang had inside information. Fanuel Musakwa, a member of the cash-in-transit crew, allegedly provided updates on the movement of the money, enabling the robbers to track the vehicle from Harare. The suspects intercepted the cash convoy at the 60-kilometre peg along the route. Armed with firearms, they threatened the crew before transferring the cash boxes into a getaway vehicle, identified as a red Toyota Hilux driven by Gerald Rutizirira. Following the robbery, the gang reportedly drove to a farm near Nyabira, where they broke open the boxes and shared the cash among themselves. Authorities have since arrested several suspects linked to the heist, with Shumba believed to be among the last key figures still at large until his recent capture. Cash-in-transit robberies have been a growing concern in Zimbabwe and across Southern Africa, with criminals often targeting security vehicles using insider information and high-powered weapons, according to regional crime reports. Shumba has been remanded in custody as investigations continue. He is expected to return to court on April 3 for the continuation of his trial. ZB Bank heist Alfred Shumba arrest

Tourist vehicle with rooftop tent   HARARE —   The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP)  has dismissed circulating social‑media reports that tourists’ vehicles are being impounded for using rooftop tents or roof racks, calling the claims false and contemptible. In an official statement, the ZRP said there is no enforcement action targeting tourists for rooftop camping equipment and urged visitors seeking clarification to contact their nearest police station or the National Complaints Desk. The ZRP asked tourists and members of the public to verify information directly with law enforcement rather than relying on unverified social posts. For enquiries, the police provided the following contact options: National Complaints Desk (phone): (0242) 703631 WhatsApp: 0712 800197 The force also confirmed it has coordinated with th e Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA)  to counter the spread of false messages and ensure accurate information is available to visitors. Tourism stakeholders warned that viral misinformation can harm Zimbabwe’s tourism reputation and deter visitors. Rooftop tents and roof racks are commonly used by self‑drive tourists and overlanders, and the ZRP’s clarification aims to reassure travellers that such equipment is not a basis for vehicle seizure. Industry sources said rapid, official responses from police and tourism authorities are essential to prevent panic and to protect the country’s image as a safe destination for international and regional tourists. Verify: Contact the nearest police station or the National Complaints Desk for official guidance. Document: Keep vehicle registration, insurance, and any relevant permits accessible while travelling. Report: Forward suspicious or alarming social‑media claims to authorities and the ZTA for verification. ZRP rooftop tent impoundment denial

Tourism Minister Barbara Rwodzi has been named the best-performing cabinet minister in Zimbabwe for 2025 Harare, Zimbabwe- Minister Barbara Rwodzi  has been named the overall best-performing Cabinet Minister for 2025, a distinction that validates her ministry's aggressive "re-imagining" of the Zimbabwean tourism brand. The performance evaluation system, a hallmark of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s  Second Republic, measures ministers against specific, pre-signed performance contracts to ensure accountability. The rankings reflect the government's current priorities: Tourism, Agriculture, and Legal Reforms. Rank Minister Portfolio Key Achievement 1st Barbara Rwodzi Tourism and Hospitality Industry 10% sectoral transformation; named Best African Tourism Minister (ITB Berlin 2026). 2nd Anxious Masuka Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water & Rural Development Sustained food security initiatives and rural development milestones. 3rd Ziyambi Ziyambi Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Management of constitutional alignments and parliamentary legislative flow. The awards also recognized the "engine room" of government—the deputy ministers and permanent secretaries who drive day-to-day implementation. Top Deputy Ministers: Vangelis Haritatos (Agriculture) Joshua Sacco (Transport/Energy) Norbert Mazungunye Top Permanent Secretaries: Obert Jiri (Agriculture) Vimbai Nyemba (Justice) Albert Chimbindi (Foreign Affairs) The Chief Secretary noted that Minister Rwodzi's top spot was secured by a 10% transformation in the tourism sector. This growth is largely attributed to the "ZimBho" domestic tourism campaign and a renewed focus on international arrivals, which recently earned her continental recognition at ITB Berlin 2026. The evaluation system continues to serve as a critical tool for the Presidency to identify high-achievers and address bottlenecks in the civil service, ensuring that the Vision 2030  goals remain on track. Barbara Rwodzi best cabinet minister 2025

Archbishop Andby Makururu addressing supporters   BIRCHENOUGH BRIDGE —   About 10,000 congregants of Johanne The 5th of Africa International brought business to a standstill at Birchenough Bridge Centre on Saturday as they marched in support of the Constitutional Amendment No 3 Bill , organisers and witnesses said. The amendment package proposes several major changes to Zimbabwe’s political system, including extending presidential terms from five to seven years  and ending direct presidential elections, among other sweeping reforms. Archbishop Andby Makururu, leader of the church, led the procession from his shrine just outside Birchenough Bridge along the Mutare‑Masvingo Highway to Save River, roughly five kilometres from the town centre. “We are here in Birchenough Bridge in Manicaland province for two days, and on Saturday, we marched in full support of the Constitutional Amendment No 3 Bill,” Archbishop Makururu told NewsDay. He said the church was urging a postponement of elections in 2028 to allow the current administration to complete development projects. “We are saying no to elections in 2028, as we need to build our country; elections can stop development, so we are saying we need President Emmerson Mnangagwa to finish his work,” Makururu said, adding that the event included a church service and a sermon he described as “powerful.” Makururu has been touring parts of southern Africa to promote the proposed amendments, arguing that frequent elections can destabilise regional peace and development. He told supporters the changes would benefit not only Zimbabwe but neighbouring countries in the Southern African Development Community. Critics and civil society groups say the proposed amendments are far‑reaching and require broader public input, including a referendum. Opponents argue that changes to the constitution that alter the balance of political power should not be decided by select groups or through limited consultation. “The scale of these amendments means citizens must have a direct say,” a civil society representative said. Observers warned that moves to extend terms and remove direct elections could provoke political tensions if not handled transparently and inclusively. If enacted, the amendment would reshape Zimbabwe’s electoral framework and presidential succession. Legal experts say the process for adopting such changes must follow constitutional procedures, which may include parliamentary approval and, depending on the clauses altered, a national referendum. Birchenough Bridge march Constitutional Amendment No 3