By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times HARARE – The Government will this week host the inaugural National Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and Cooperatives Indaba in Harare as it seeks to strengthen the sector's contribution to economic growth, job creation and the achievement of Vision 2030. The two-day event, scheduled for 16 to 17 July at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC), will bring together policymakers, business leaders, development partners, financial institutions, investors and entrepreneurs to discuss strategies for expanding Zimbabwe's MSME and cooperative sectors. The MSME sector is one of Zimbabwe's largest economic contributors, accounting for more than 60 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and providing employment to over 70 percent of the country's workforce, according to government estimates. Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, said the inaugural Indaba represents a significant milestone in creating a stronger and more inclusive enterprise ecosystem. "Held under the theme, 'Towards Vision 2030: Building an Enabling Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Cooperatives Ecosystem,' the Indaba marks a significant milestone in Zimbabwe's journey towards Vision 2030," she said. "It has been conceived as a high-level strategic platform to strengthen the contribution of MSMEs and cooperatives through enhanced policy dialogue, stakeholder collaboration and investment promotion." She said the forum would facilitate engagement between government, the private sector and development partners on policies aimed at improving the operating environment for small businesses and cooperatives. Senator Mutsvangwa said MSMEs and cooperatives remain central to Zimbabwe's economic transformation by creating employment, promoting value addition and supporting poverty reduction, particularly among women, young people and rural communities. She added that strengthening the sector would be key to achieving the objectives outlined in the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) and Vision 2030. A major highlight of the Indaba will be the launch of the Revised National Cooperative Development Societies Policy, which seeks to modernise the governance, regulation and sustainable development of Zimbabwe's cooperative movement. "The overarching objective of the Indaba is to strengthen the contribution of MSMEs and cooperatives to inclusive economic transformation through improved policy coherence, stronger stakeholder coordination and strategic partnerships aligned with the National Development Strategy 2," Senator Mutsvangwa said. She said the revised policy provides an updated framework to guide the growth, governance and regulation of cooperatives while enhancing their contribution to national development. Government has introduced a number of initiatives aimed at supporting MSMEs, including the development of safe trading and production workspaces, improving access to affordable finance through institutions such as the Women's Microfinance Bank and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Corporation (SMEDCO), as well as entrepreneurship training and business formalisation programmes. The inaugural National MSMEs and Cooperatives Indaba is expected to showcase investment opportunities, innovative enterprises and policy reforms designed to unlock the full potential of Zimbabwe's small business sector. Zimbabwe MSMEs Indaba

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times HARARE – Chimurenga music legend Thomas "Mukanya" Mapfumo has accepted businessman Wicknell Chivayo's offer to perform at two private events in Zimbabwe for a combined fee of US$1 million, making what Chivayo says will be the biggest performance deal ever secured by a Zimbabwean musician. The agreement will see Mapfumo perform at fellow musician Jah Prayzah's wedding and at Chivayo's birthday celebration, earning US$500,000 for each performance. Chivayo first announced the offer earlier this month while celebrating Jah Prayzah's 39th birthday, during which he gifted the award-winning musician US$250,000 in cash and a 2026 Ford Ranger Platinum. At the time, Chivayo also pledged to pay Mapfumo US$500,000 to perform at Jah Prayzah's wedding. "If, for whatever reason, that performance does not happen, I will still gladly invite him to perform for my family and me in my own backyard on my birthday and pay him US$1 million," Chivayo wrote on social media. He added that it would be an honour for the Chimurenga icon "to finally retire from music as a millionaire, and perform his last bira in style." The agreement marks a significant shift from 2024, when Mapfumo publicly rejected a package of gifts from Chivayo reportedly worth US$500,000, including a house, a vehicle and cash. At the time, the veteran musician said his conscience would not allow him to accept what he described as "dirty money." However, in a video shared by Chivayo on social media on Monday, 13 July, Mapfumo clarified that the latest arrangement is a commercial agreement rather than a gift. He said the US$1 million represented payment for professional services to be rendered through the two performances. Announcing the agreement, Chivayo said he would honour the commitment in full. "I am pleased to announce that I will wholeheartedly honour my commitment by paying a record-breaking US$1 million for these two shows at US$500,000 per show. This will make the legendary Thomas Tafirenyika Mapfumo the highest-paid singer ever in the history of our beloved country," he said. Chivayo praised Mapfumo for accepting the offer "consciously and independently" and paid tribute to the musician's decades-long contribution to Zimbabwean music and the country's liberation struggle. "Your music has educated, inspired, united and comforted generations of Zimbabweans, and your legacy will continue to live on for many years to come," he said. He also revealed that once construction of his residence in Gandami is completed, expected towards the end of November or mid-December, he intends to host Mapfumo at his Kugara Huda Estate in Wilshire as part of his housewarming celebrations. The performances are expected to attract significant public interest, not only because of the unprecedented performance fee but also because they mark Mapfumo's return to performing in Zimbabwe after years of living in the United States. Thomas Mapfumo US$1 million deal Editorial note: The statement that this makes Mapfumo "the highest-paid singer ever in Zimbabwe's history" is attributed to Chivayo because there is no independently verifiable record of every performance contract in Zimbabwe. Similarly, the article presents the US$1 million figure as announced by the parties involved rather than as an independently audited transaction.

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times MUSINA, SOUTH AFRICA – A South African woman was stopped by immigration authorities after she allegedly attempted to pose as a Malawian national in a bid to accompany her Malawian partner during a voluntary repatriation process. The incident occurred at a temporary repatriation centre in Musina, Limpopo Province, where foreign nationals are being processed for return to their home countries. According to South Africa's Department of Home Affairs Acting Chief Director Albert Matsaung, the woman, who is from KwaZulu-Natal, arrived at the repatriation site with her Malawian lover and claimed she was also a Malawian citizen. However, her account reportedly raised suspicions during interviews conducted by South African and Malawian officials. "We work with different authorities here who interviewed her," Matsaung said. "After the interview, Malawian authorities realised that the story does not add up." Following further checks, the woman was handed over to South African immigration officials, who established that she is a South African citizen and not eligible to be processed under the voluntary repatriation programme. Authorities said she had hoped to use the repatriation process to travel with her partner to Malawi despite not possessing a passport or other travel documentation. Officials have not indicated whether criminal charges will be brought against her. Matsaung warned that voluntary repatriation programmes are intended solely for eligible foreign nationals returning to their countries of origin and should not be misused. "People wishing to visit other countries must not abuse this process," he said. "We are not trying to promote illegal immigration to other countries by our own citizens, so this process must not be abused." He added that South Africans wishing to travel elsewhere on the continent, including those intending to visit spouses, partners or relatives, must comply with immigration laws and use the appropriate legal travel channels. According to Matsaung, the woman's actions were inconsistent with South Africa's immigration regulations. He said immigration officials are working with the Department of Social Development and other stakeholders to strengthen awareness and prevent similar incidents in the future. The case comes as South African authorities continue processing voluntary repatriations for foreign nationals while intensifying efforts to ensure compliance with immigration laws and cross-border travel requirements. Officials have reiterated that all international travel must be undertaken using valid passports, visas where required and other legally recognised travel documents. South African woman poses as Malawian

Major General (Retired) Richard Ruwodo By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times HARARE – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has paid tribute to the late National Heroes Major General (Retired) Richard Ruwodo and Professor Herbert Mapfumo Chinyanga, describing them as selfless patriots whose contributions to Zimbabwe's liberation struggle, defence forces and healthcare sector left a lasting national legacy. President Mnangagwa led mourners at the burial of Major General (Rtd) Ruwodo at the National Heroes Acre in Harare on Monday. Professor Chinyanga, in line with his wishes, will be cremated. Major General (Rtd) Ruwodo died on 7 July 2026, while Professor Chinyanga passed away on 2 July 2026 in South Africa. Thousands of mourners, including government officials, military personnel, war veterans and family members, gathered at the National Heroes Acre to bid farewell to Major General (Rtd) Ruwodo, whose Chimurenga name was Moshe Pwititi. Addressing mourners, President Mnangagwa described Ruwodo as a dedicated freedom fighter and disciplined military officer who devoted his life to serving Zimbabwe. "He was a gallant son of the soil who devoted his life to wholeheartedly serving our motherland, Zimbabwe, with unwavering patriotism, immense honour and professionalism," the President said. He acknowledged the passing of many liberation war veterans but expressed confidence in younger generations to uphold the values of the liberation struggle. "Sadly, our nation continues to lose that stalwart generation of devoted freedom fighters. However, we are emboldened by the new crop of young heroes and heroines who are taking up the mantle to carry forward the ideals of the liberation struggle." Major General (Rtd) Richard Ruwodo's burial ceremony. President Mnangagwa said Ruwodo abandoned a promising career in industry in 1975 to join the Zimbabwe African National Liberation Army (ZANLA), receiving military training at Chimoio, Mozambique, before serving as Director of Finance at the party headquarters in Maputo under the late National Hero Ernest Kadungure. Following Independence, Ruwodo held several senior positions within the Zimbabwe National Army, including becoming its first black Director of Pay and Records. The President also honoured Professor Herbert Mapfumo Chinyanga, describing him as a distinguished physician whose work helped shape modern anaesthesia and medical education in Zimbabwe. "His life was defined by patriotism, integrity, humility, professional excellence and selfless service. He was a towering national figure whose lifelong service helped transform anaesthesia, advance medical education and strengthen Zimbabwe's healthcare system." President Mnangagwa noted that after qualifying as a specialist in anaesthesia and intensive care in Canada, Professor Chinyanga chose to return to Zimbabwe despite opportunities to pursue an international career. He later became a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Canada before undertaking further training in pain management and serving at the University of Toronto and the Hospital for Sick Children, earning international recognition as a clinician, researcher and educator. The President said Zimbabwe's development agenda depends on recognising excellence across all professions, including medicine, education, science and public service. "Under my administration, all areas of specialisation, fields of work and professions remain critical national assets that must be appropriately organised to build, modernise and industrialise our country." He reaffirmed the Government's commitment to implementing people-centred policies aimed at improving livelihoods as Zimbabwe works towards achieving Vision 2030. Richard Ruwodo National Hero

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times VICTORIA FALLS – The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) and the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works have established a joint special task force to investigate alleged corruption in local authorities across Zimbabwe amid growing public concern over governance and service delivery. The announcement was made by ZACC Chairperson Michael Reza during commemorations of African Anti-Corruption Day in Victoria Falls on Saturday, where he said the initiative was prompted by an increase in complaints from residents over suspected corruption in councils. The task force will focus on allegations including irregular land allocations, procurement fraud, abuse of office and other forms of corruption affecting local authorities. "We are aware of the issues that have been raised by the residents of this beautiful city of Victoria Falls," Reza said. "I would like to advise that, as ZACC, working together with the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, we have set up a joint special task force to investigate cases of suspected corruption in local authorities." Local authorities across Zimbabwe have faced persistent allegations of maladministration, including illegal land allocations, procurement irregularities, misuse of public funds and abuse of office. Residents' associations and anti-corruption campaigners have repeatedly called for greater transparency and accountability in the management of council resources. Reza said Matabeleland North Province, home to Victoria Falls and endowed with significant wildlife, forestry and mineral resources, is particularly vulnerable to corruption because of the high economic value attached to its natural assets. He warned that the exploitation of these resources could create opportunities for bribery, fraud, conflict of interest and abuse of public office if effective oversight mechanisms are not maintained. While acknowledging public frustration over the pace of some corruption investigations, Reza said complex cases often require extensive evidence gathering before prosecutions can proceed. "Some investigations take time because they must be thorough, comprehensive and focused on establishing the facts," he said. He urged members of the public to remain patient and continue reporting suspected corruption through official channels. Reza commended citizens who report corruption, describing whistleblowers and witnesses as indispensable partners in Zimbabwe's anti-corruption efforts. He said information provided by residents frequently helps investigators uncover corrupt practices that might otherwise go undetected. The establishment of the joint task force comes as Zimbabwe continues implementing measures aimed at strengthening public sector accountability and improving governance in local authorities. Authorities say investigations will be conducted wherever credible allegations arise, with individuals found to have engaged in corrupt activities expected to face prosecution in accordance with the law. ZACC local authority corruption

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times ZURICH – FIFA is set to consider expanding the 2030 FIFA World Cup from 48 to 64 teams as part of celebrations marking the tournament's 100th anniversary, a move that could create the largest World Cup in football history. The proposal, initially put forward by South American football governing body CONMEBOL, will be discussed by the FIFA Council before being tabled at the FIFA Congress next year. If approved, the expanded tournament would significantly increase the number of participating nations, giving more teams from Africa, Asia, Oceania and the Caribbean an opportunity to compete on football's biggest stage. FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the proposal deserves careful consideration, arguing that the World Cup should reflect the global nature of the sport. "That's definitely an issue that will be examined and discussed in the relevant committees after this World Cup," Infantino told Swiss media outlet Bluewin. "When organising a World Cup, it's important to organise it for the whole world not just Europe and South America but effectively the entire world." Infantino said expanding the tournament would provide greater incentives for smaller football nations to invest in player development and strengthen their national teams. "Every nation should be allowed to dream of participating in the World Cup. You can see that the quality of the teams is extremely high and it's getting higher and higher all over the world." "If you don't give smaller countries a chance to participate in the World Cup, they'll lack the incentive to keep improving." The proposal is reportedly being considered as a one-off expansion to commemorate the centenary of the first FIFA World Cup, held in Uruguay in 1930. The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, is the first edition featuring 48 teams, an increase from the previous 32-team format. The expansion also increased the number of matches from 64 to 104. A further increase to 64 teams would mean nearly one-third of FIFA's 211 member associations could qualify for the finals, potentially giving African nations their highest-ever representation at a World Cup. Infantino said the expanded format has already demonstrated its value. "Every team played at a high level in the group stages of the 2026 World Cup. Teams from every continent scored goals and earned at least one point." He pointed to Africa's improved performances, noting that significantly more African teams progressed to the knockout stages than under the previous format. For Zimbabwe and other emerging football nations, a larger World Cup could improve qualification prospects, provided they navigate the increasingly competitive African qualifiers. The 2030 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by Spain, Portugal and Morocco, while Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay will each stage an opening match to commemorate the tournament's centenary. Should FIFA approve the proposal, the 2030 edition would become the biggest World Cup ever staged, further reshaping international football and expanding opportunities for nations seeking to compete on the global stage. 2030 FIFA World Cup 64 teams

By Dr. Precious Sibiya Monday, July 13, 2026 Today we migrate from red strawberries to gold. I humbly introduce you to Saffron. This is not merely a spice but a legend. Sit back and relax as we unpack this golden wonder. Dubbed "red gold," it has captivated individuals for centuries with its intense aroma, mesmerizing color, and unrivaled value. In ancient times, it symbolized wealth, and today it reigns supreme in kitchens and pharmaceutical laboratories worldwide. What is the origin of this uniqueness? Let us delve into the history and secrets of one of the most expensive substances on Earth. The first recorded mention of saffron dates back over 3,000 years. In ancient Egypt, it was utilized to perfume temples, and legend has it that Cleopatra added it to her baths, believing it enhanced beauty and sensuality. In ancient Greece, saffron was believed to have been created by Zeus himself. In Persia, it was considered an aphrodisiac and an elixir of youth. In medieval Europe, saffron was as valuable as gold. Merchants transported it along the Silk Road, and the spice was so valuable that adulteration was punishable by death. During plague epidemics, saffron infusions were consumed, believed to possess protective properties. Where does saffron originate from, and why is it so expensive? Saffron is derived from the cultivated crocus (Crocus sativus), or more precisely, from its three thin stamens (called stigmas). These flowers bloom only once a year in autumn, for just a few days. To obtain 1 kilogram of saffron, up to 200,000 flowers are required, which are harvested by hand, often at dawn, while the flowers are still closed. Only three stigmas are extracted from each flower, which are then dried to obtain the finished spice. Furthermore, saffron cultivation requires specific climatic and soil conditions. This arduous harvesting process and minimal yield make saffron more expensive than precious metals. Countries like Iran, India, Greece, and Morocco, among many, produce saffron on a large scale. Health benefits of Saffron Saffron, known as "sunshine spice," offers numerous health benefits due to active compounds like crocin, crocetin, and safranal. Key benefits include mood-boosting properties, cognitive function support, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, sleep support, eye health protection, and potential aid in weight management. However, concentrated supplements require caution, with recommended daily limits and consultation with a healthcare provider advised. Famous dishes with saffron: Saffron, though expensive, is essential in many classic dishes, adding unique aroma and color. It's used in Paella Valenciana, Risotto alla Milanese, Bouillabaisse, Biryani, and desserts like saffron ice cream and cakes. To use, soak it in warm water or milk. Disclaimer This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here. Dr. Precious Sibiya, a mother, sister, daughter, friend, and so much more. She is a certified Wellness Practitioner, stroke survivor, and advocate for natural healing and lifestyle. Contact her for more Wellness insights on: Email: precioussibiya2014@gmail.com Phone: +263775369467 Saffron health benefits and origin

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times HARARE – Zimbabwe's Permanent Secretary for Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Nick Mangwana, has dismissed allegations by former Botswana President Ian Khama that the Zimbabwean government is plotting to assassinate him, describing the claims as "entirely false" and unsupported by evidence. Khama made the allegations in an interview with the Masvingo Mirror, claiming he had been warned by two independent sources of an alleged plot linked to his criticism of President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Constitutional Amendment No. 3. "I was contacted by two sources with information that there is a plot by the Government of Mnangagwa to kill me," Khama was quoted as saying. "I am making this information public so that people know where to look if anything happens to me." Khama further alleged that a senior Zimbabwean intelligence official recently travelled to Botswana and met local intelligence counterparts as part of the purported operation. However, he did not provide evidence to support the allegations, and they have not been independently verified. Responding in a statement, Mangwana rejected the claims, saying the Government of Zimbabwe had no interest in targeting the former Botswana leader. "The Government of Zimbabwe categorically rejects these allegations. They are entirely false, baseless and unsupported by any credible evidence," Mangwana said. He added that serious allegations of this nature should be supported by verifiable evidence rather than anonymous claims circulated through the media. "Serious allegations of this nature cannot become fact simply because they are repeated publicly. If Mr Khama possesses credible evidence, the appropriate course is to submit it to the relevant law enforcement and security authorities rather than litigating the matter through the media." Khama linked the alleged plot to his outspoken criticism of Zimbabwe's Constitutional Amendment No. 3, arguing that the legislation was designed to strengthen President Mnangagwa's hold on power. "Constitutional Amendment Number 3 is self-seeking. That Constitution was amended for one man. It is not in the interest of the people of Zimbabwe," Khama said. Mangwana dismissed the criticism, saying Zimbabwe's constitutional and political processes are matters for Zimbabweans. "Zimbabwe is a sovereign state with constitutional institutions that do not require responding to political commentary by a retired foreign leader. His opinions on Zimbabwe's internal affairs, whether favourable or otherwise, are of no consequence to the Government of Zimbabwe." Mangwana also rejected suggestions that Zimbabwe would carry out covert operations in neighbouring Botswana, saying such claims undermined the cordial relations between the two countries. "The suggestion that Zimbabwe would dispatch intelligence operatives into Botswana to target Mr Khama is not only false but also an affront to the cordial and longstanding relations between our two countries. Zimbabwe respects Botswana's sovereignty and remains committed to maintaining strong bilateral relations." Khama also alleged that a senior Botswana intelligence official involved in the purported meetings had previously been linked to threats against him dating back to 2019. Those claims have likewise not been independently verified. Mangwana said the government remained focused on governance, economic development and regional cooperation. "Zimbabwe remains focused on governance, economic development and regional cooperation. We will not be distracted by sensational allegations that lack factual foundation." The allegations and the government's response come amid strained relations between Khama and Botswana's current administration, as well as the former president's continued criticism of political developments in neighbouring Zimbabwe. Ian Khama assassination plot claims

A United Nations report has documented widespread torture, rape, slavery and trafficking of migrants and refugees in Libya, describing an entrenched system of abuse involving criminal networks and other actors. By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times GENEVA – A new United Nations report has documented widespread and systematic human rights abuses against migrants, refugees and asylum-seekers in Libya, describing a brutal system of exploitation involving killings, torture, sexual violence, forced labour and human trafficking. The report, jointly released by the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) and the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), concludes that migrants are routinely subjected to grave abuses by criminal trafficking networks, armed groups and, in some cases, actors allegedly linked to Libyan authorities. Covering the period from January 2024 to December 2025, the report is based on interviews with nearly 100 migrants, refugees and asylum-seekers from 16 countries across Africa, the Middle East and South Asia. According to the UN, many migrants are abducted or rounded up, separated from their families and detained without due process. Victims reported being held in official and unofficial detention facilities where they endured torture, slavery, forced labour, sexual violence, extortion and ransom demands. The report describes the abuse as an "exploitative model" that has become "business as usual," with vulnerable people treated as commodities in a lucrative trafficking network. One Eritrean woman recounted being held for more than six weeks in a trafficking house in eastern Libya. "I wish I died. It was a journey of hell," she told UN investigators. "Different men raped me many times. Girls as young as 14 were raped daily." She was eventually released after her family paid a ransom. Another Eritrean survivor said traffickers subjected her and another woman, both survivors of female genital mutilation, to further abuse before repeatedly raping them. According to the report, her companion later died from severe bleeding. Women also described being raped in front of family members while armed men tortured and assaulted detainees inside overcrowded detention facilities. The report further highlights the dangers migrants face while attempting to cross the Central Mediterranean. Many said interceptions at sea by Libyan actors involved excessive force, dangerous manoeuvres and threats that placed lives at risk. Those intercepted are frequently returned to Libya, where they face renewed detention and abuse, raising concerns over violations of the international principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits returning people to places where they face persecution or serious harm. The UN also criticised Libya's reported practice of collective expulsions, saying migrants are deported without individual assessments or access to asylum procedures, leaving many stranded in remote border areas without food, water or medical care. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk described the findings as evidence of a deeply entrenched system of exploitation. "There are no words to describe the never-ending nightmare these people are forced into, only to feed the mounting greed of traffickers and those in power profiting from a system of exploitation," Türk said. UN Special Representative for Libya Hanna Tetteh called for urgent reforms, saying detention centres had become breeding grounds for gross human rights violations. The UN has urged Libyan authorities to immediately release all arbitrarily detained migrants, end dangerous interception practices, dismantle trafficking networks and ensure accountability for perpetrators. It also called on the international community, including the European Union, to suspend migrant interceptions and returns to Libya until effective human rights safeguards are in place. UN report Libya migrants

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times DOHA – Qatar's former ruler, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, has died at the age of 74, the Amiri Diwan announced on Sunday, marking the end of an era for the leader widely credited with transforming the Gulf nation into a global economic, diplomatic and media powerhouse. "With hearts steadfast in faith in God's decree and destiny, the Amiri Diwan mourns the great loss to the nation of the late may God have mercy on him His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away this morning," the royal court said in a statement. Qatar declared four days of national mourning, with flags lowered to half-mast and government offices and public institutions closed in his honour. Former Qatari ruler Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani has died at 74, leaving behind a legacy that transformed Qatar into a global energy, investment and diplomatic power. Sheikh Hamad came to power in June 1995 after peacefully deposing his father, Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani, while the latter was abroad. The bloodless transfer of power reshaped Qatar's trajectory, although it remained a subject of political debate throughout his reign. During his 18 years in office, Sheikh Hamad oversaw the rapid development of Qatar's vast liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry, turning the country into one of the world's wealthiest nations by per-capita income. Revenues from natural gas exports financed major infrastructure projects, sovereign wealth investments and an ambitious foreign policy that elevated Qatar's international influence. One of his most enduring legacies was the launch of Al Jazeera in 1996. The Doha-based broadcaster transformed Arabic-language news coverage and later expanded into a global media network. "He was the visionary behind the original idea and the one who laid the foundations of this great media institution," Al Jazeera Media Network Director-General Sheikh Nasser bin Faisal Al Thani said in a tribute. Sheikh Hamad also strengthened Qatar's strategic partnership with the United States by expanding Al Udeid Air Base, which later became the forward headquarters of U.S. Central Command and remains the largest American military installation in the Middle East. His administration established the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) in 2005, helping the country acquire major international assets including stakes in Volkswagen, Barclays, Harrods, The Shard, Canary Wharf and French football club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). These investments positioned Qatar as one of the world's most influential sovereign investors. Domestically, his reign saw the adoption of Qatar's first permanent constitution in 2004 and the introduction of municipal elections in which women could vote and contest public office. In 2013, Sheikh Hamad voluntarily transferred power to his son, Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in a rare abdication by a hereditary Gulf ruler. His tenure was not without controversy. Critics questioned Qatar's human rights record, its hosting of political groups, and allegations surrounding the successful bid for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Investigations into the World Cup bidding process generated years of scrutiny, although FIFA has consistently maintained the tournament award stands. Likewise, Al Jazeera's editorial coverage and Qatar's regional diplomacy often drew criticism from some governments while earning praise from others. Assistant Professor of International Affairs at Qatar University Abdulla Banndar el Etaibi described Sheikh Hamad as "someone who left a legacy all over the world, not only in Qatar." Tributes poured in from world leaders, including Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, who extended condolences to Qatar's leadership and people following the former emir's death. Sheikh Hamad leaves behind a legacy that fundamentally reshaped Qatar's economy, diplomacy, media landscape and global profile, ensuring the small Gulf state became an influential player in international affairs. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani dies

By Southerton Business Times Editor MUTARE — In a case that sparked deep national outrage across Zimbabwe, two former pupils at Masasi High School in Mutare, Manicaland, have been convicted of raping a vulnerable 17-year-old schoolmate and filming the traumatic assault. The severe incident drew widespread public attention last year after it emerged that the perpetrators had recorded the act and leaked the video footage, which later went viral on various social media platforms. The offenders, who were aged 17 and 16 at the time of the crime, appeared before Mutare Regional Magistrate Ms. Sekai Chiwundura. They faced formal charges of rape and aggravated indecent assault. Throughout the full trial, the two teenagers were legally represented by lawyers from the Justice for Children Trust and pleaded not guilty. In their defense, they claimed that the sexual encounter was completely consensual. They explicitly denied manipulating or exploiting the complainant’s documented cognitive difficulties. However, Magistrate Chiwundura firmly rejected their version of events, ruling that the State had presented overwhelming evidence proving the attack was forced and entirely non-consensual. Prosecutor Mr. Tom Nyatsuro established that on February 8, 2025, at around 4:00 PM, the accused were walking home from school with the complainant. They forcefully dragged her into a secluded, forested area, where they raped her and subjected her to further aggravated sexual acts. During the ambush, the 16-year-old used a mobile device to film the videos. Magistrate Chiwundura found both of the accused guilty on all counts. She sentenced each of them to 10 years in prison for the rape charge, alongside an additional five years each for the aggravated indecent assault charge. In a shocking turn for public onlookers, Chiwundura ultimately suspended the 10-year prison terms for both offenders due to their legal status as juveniles, sparing them immediate incarceration. The legal battle is set to continue as the two convicted youths have since filed an official appeal at the Mutare High Court. In their application, they are actively challenging both the conviction and the 15-year total sentence. Their legal team argues that the lower regional court erred in its assessment of the evidence and contends that the sentences handed down by Magistrate Chiwundura were grossly excessive given their ages. Masasi High School rape conviction Mutare

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times BULAWAYO – A Bulawayo traditional healer has been granted bail after appearing in court on a murder charge following the death of a client who allegedly became critically ill after consuming a herbal substance during a spiritual cleansing ritual. Livingstone Sibanda, of Cowdray Park, appeared before Bulawayo Provincial Magistrate Challenge Mahembe facing a charge of murder. He was not asked to plead because murder cases are exclusively tried by the High Court. Sibanda, who is represented by Simbarashe Innocent Madzivire of Mashayamombe Law Firm, was subsequently granted bail by the High Court and released on US$150 pending further proceedings. The court remanded the matter to July 15, 2026, for routine remand. As part of his bail conditions, Sibanda was ordered to continue residing at his given address, report every Monday at Cowdray Park Police Station and not interfere with State witnesses until the case is finalised. According to prosecutor Josephine Gurazhira, the alleged incident occurred on June 21, 2026, when the now-deceased man, accompanied by his sister, visited Sibanda's residence seeking spiritual assistance to allegedly remove evil spirits believed to be affecting his home. The State alleges that Sibanda administered a herbal substance, described in court as resembling a potato, and instructed the man to consume it as part of the cleansing ritual. "The deceased consumed the herb and immediately started vomiting continuously. The accused attempted to administer first aid, but his efforts failed to stop the vomiting," Gurazhira told the court. Prosecutors allege that after the man's condition deteriorated, Sibanda called an ambulance to his home. Emergency medical personnel responded to the scene but pronounced the man dead after examining him. The deceased's body was taken for a post-mortem examination to establish the exact cause of death. The results of the examination are expected to form a key part of the State's case when the matter proceeds to trial. The case has drawn attention to the growing number of Zimbabweans who seek traditional and spiritual healing services alongside conventional medical treatment, although authorities have repeatedly urged members of the public to exercise caution and seek immediate medical attention when serious health complications arise. The matter will eventually be transferred to the High Court for trial after completion of the necessary legal procedures. Under Zimbabwean law, a person charged with a criminal offence is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. At this stage, the allegations remain before the court, and Sibanda has not yet been called upon to enter a plea. Bulawayo traditional healer murder case