By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times HARARE – The Zimbabwean community in the United Kingdom is mourning the loss of a respected philanthropist and cultural ambassador who died in a devastating road accident on the M62 motorway in Greater Manchester. According to Greater Manchester Police (GMP), the fatal collision occurred at approximately 11 pm on Saturday, 11 July 2026, between Junctions 21 and 22 near Rochdale. Police said a grey Nissan Juke, believed to have been travelling in the wrong direction on the eastbound carriageway, collided head-on with a grey BMW X5. The Nissan driver, a woman in her 50s, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The occupants of the BMW escaped with minor injuries and were treated by emergency services. GMP has not officially released the identity of the deceased pending formal identification and notification of next of kin. However, members of the Zimbabwean community have identified her as a widely respected community leader, philanthropist and passionate promoter of Zimbabwean culture in the United Kingdom. Friends described her as a tireless advocate for Zimbabweans living abroad, dedicating much of her time to charitable causes supporting vulnerable families both in the UK and Zimbabwe. She was also known for championing Zimbabwean traditions, particularly her Ndebele heritage, organising cultural events and encouraging young people born in the diaspora to embrace their identity and language. "She always had time for everyone. Whether someone needed financial assistance, advice or simply encouragement, she was there," one family friend said in an online tribute. Another community member described her as "a bridge between Zimbabwe and the diaspora," saying her commitment to preserving Zimbabwean culture inspired many young Zimbabweans growing up in Britain. Her death has sent shockwaves through Zimbabwean community organisations across the UK, with tributes continuing to pour in on social media from friends, churches and cultural groups remembering her generosity, humility and unwavering commitment to helping others. Greater Manchester Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Investigators are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam or CCTV footage from the area before the collision to come forward. Anyone with information is asked to contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 856 4741, quoting log 4349 of 11 July 2026. Information can also be submitted through GMP's online reporting portal or anonymously via Crimestoppers. The tragedy has once again highlighted the close-knit nature of Zimbabwe's diaspora community, where individuals who dedicate themselves to supporting fellow nationals often become pillars of unity, cultural preservation and humanitarian work. As investigations continue, many Zimbabweans in Britain are remembering a woman whose legacy of kindness, charity and cultural pride will live on through the countless lives she touched. Zimbabwean woman killed in M62 crash

BULAWAYO – Vice President Kembo Mohadi has reaffirmed the Government's commitment to protecting Zimbabwe's children through stronger education, social protection and child welfare systems following the launch of the National Action Plan for Children IV (2026–2030) and the National Child Online Protection Policy. Speaking at the launch in Bulawayo on Thursday, Mohadi said the two frameworks were designed to address emerging threats facing children, particularly in the digital age, while strengthening Zimbabwe's child protection systems. "I am confident that the National Action Plan for Children IV (2026–2030) and the National Child Online Protection Policy will serve as a comprehensive and adaptive framework for our efforts to respond to the evolving needs of our children," he said. The Vice President said the new strategy expands previous child protection programmes by incorporating issues such as online child protection, cyber violence, consent, online exploitation and the growing links between child labour and digital abuse. Mohadi said the Second Republic remains committed to ending child marriage, child labour, adolescent pregnancies and violence against children through coordinated interventions involving Government, communities and development partners. "We should remove our children from the streets, get our children out of the mines and ensure that our classrooms are filled. However, policy on its own cannot overcome deep-rooted cultural challenges," he said. He said Government's "Not in My Village" campaign, implemented with traditional leaders, was gaining momentum in efforts to eliminate child marriage and keep children in school. Mohadi added that the child protection policies align with the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) and Zimbabwe's Vision 2030, which prioritise human capital development and inclusive social protection. The Vice President said Zimbabwe had made significant progress in education, with more than 90% of school-age children now enrolled. He credited programmes promoting girls' education with reducing school dropout rates among adolescent girls, particularly in vulnerable communities. Mohadi also pledged continued support for children living with disabilities through expanded inclusive education, specialised learning materials, trained teachers and improved access to social protection programmes. "Every child in our nation matters equally and children with disabilities deserve equal treatment and enjoyment of their inalienable rights," he said. He said Government would continue investing in disability grants, cash transfer programmes, community-based rehabilitation services, assistive technologies and accessible public infrastructure. Mohadi called on Government institutions, civil society organisations, traditional and religious leaders, development partners and communities to work together to combat violence, exploitation and discrimination against children. "The National Action Plan for Children provides a concrete roadmap, resources and accountability mechanisms necessary to translate our political commitment into tangible protection for every child," he said. He said Government would publish regular progress reports and set measurable implementation targets to ensure accountability. Speaking at the same event, Bulawayo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Judith Ncube said children continue to face increasingly complex risks, including abuse, trafficking, cybercrime, harmful cultural practices and vulnerabilities associated with migration. She said coordinated action was essential to strengthen Zimbabwe's child protection system and safeguard children's rights in an evolving social and digital environment. Zimbabwe National Action Plan for Children 2026–2030

By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times HARARE – Zimbabwean sungura music icon Alick Macheso has withdrawn from this year's Silala Festival in South Africa, citing security concerns linked to ongoing protests and unrest affecting foreign nationals. The Orchestra Mberikwazvo frontman announced the decision in a statement posted on his official Facebook page, saying the safety of fans, his band members and festival attendees had to come first despite months of preparations. “We regret to inform you Mafunzi wa Mishumo, Varungu vedu, Amakhiwa, our fans, supporters and festival attendees that we are unable to participate in this year's Silala Festival,” Macheso said. “This decision has been necessitated by the current security situation, protests and unrest affecting foreign nationals in South Africa.” The veteran musician said all contractual obligations and travel logistics had already been finalised before the difficult decision was made. “Just for the record, all contractual and logistical arrangements had been completed, and we were fully prepared to attend the event. However, the safety and well-being of everyone involved remains our highest priority,” he added. Macheso thanked the Silala Festival organisers for their understanding and apologised to supporters who had been looking forward to the performance. He said Orchestra Mberikwazvo remains committed to returning to South Africa once the security situation improves. “We sincerely appreciate the understanding of the organisers and all our fans. We look forward to performing for you in South Africa when circumstances allow.” The musician also appealed for peace, tolerance and unity amid heightened tensions, urging communities to reject violence and embrace mutual respect. The cancellation comes as concerns continue to mount over the safety of foreign nationals in parts of South Africa following reports of protests and anti-immigrant sentiment in some communities. The developments have prompted some Zimbabwean travellers and entertainers to reassess planned visits while monitoring the security situation. Macheso joins a growing number of regional artists who have adjusted travel plans in response to security concerns, highlighting the impact that instability can have on the entertainment industry and cross-border cultural events. Despite the setback, organisers are expected to proceed with the festival programme, although Macheso's withdrawal will be a significant disappointment for many Zimbabwean fans based in South Africa, where Orchestra Mberikwazvo enjoys a large following. One fan commented on Macheso's Facebook announcement: "Your safety comes first, Baba Shero. We'll wait for you when the situation is peaceful." Similar messages of support flooded the post, with many fans expressing understanding while hoping the band would return soon. Macheso has performed numerous sold-out shows in South Africa over the years, making the country one of Orchestra Mberikwazvo's biggest international markets. Alick Macheso Silala Festival

French investigative journalist Romain Molina has announced a forthcoming investigation into Argentine football as separate reports reveal U.S. authorities are examining financial transactions involving the Argentine Football Association. By Percy Nhara | Southerton Business Times French investigative journalist Romain Molina has announced that he is preparing what he describes as a major investigation into Argentine football, triggering global debate while leaving many questions unanswered over the scope and evidence behind his claims. In a post on X, Molina said he would soon publish an investigation into what he called the "mafia of Argentine football," alleging it would expose one of the biggest scandals concealed by FIFA in recent years. However, he did not release supporting documents, identify those allegedly involved, or provide evidence to substantiate the claims at the time of his announcement. The announcement has nevertheless attracted significant attention because of Molina's track record investigating corruption, governance failures and abuse within international football. His previous reporting has contributed to investigations involving football officials in Africa and Europe, although several of his past reports have also been disputed by individuals and organisations he investigated. Separately from Molina's forthcoming investigation, Argentine newspaper La Nación recently reported that U.S. federal prosecutors and FBI agents are examining financial transactions involving the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and Miami-based company TourProdEnter LLC, which manages the federation's overseas commercial rights. Investigators are reportedly gathering testimony over financial operations conducted in the United States. Argentine media have alleged that millions of dollars in commercial revenue flowed through TourProdEnter before being transferred to a network of companies registered in jurisdictions including Delaware, Wyoming and the British Virgin Islands. Those reports also claim investigators are examining whether shell companies and complex ownership structures were used to obscure the movement of funds. The AFA has strongly denied any wrongdoing. In an official statement issued in December, the federation described the allegations as a "defamation campaign" and said its commercial agreement with TourProdEnter had already been reviewed by courts in both Argentina and the United States without any findings of illegality. Molina's announcement also comes as Argentina's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign has attracted controversy over refereeing decisions. Following Argentina's Round of 16 victory over Egypt, Egypt coach Hossam Hassan publicly questioned French referee François Letexier's officiating, adding to wider debate across international football. However, Molina has not indicated that his investigation relates to World Cup officiating or any specific tournament incident. Sports governance experts say major corruption allegations require documentary evidence before conclusions can be drawn. Until Molina publishes his findings, his announcement should be viewed as notice of an upcoming investigation rather than proof of misconduct. Attention is now focused on whether the promised report will provide verifiable evidence linking alleged financial misconduct, football governance failures or FIFA oversight to any individuals or institutions. Romain Molina Argentina football investigation

HARARE – Zimbabwe's drive to become an upper-middle-income economy by 2030 has received a major boost, with the expansion of Mozambique's Beira Oil Terminal and the planned upgrade of the Forbes-Machipanda Border Post expected to improve fuel security, cut transport costs and strengthen regional trade. The multi-million-dollar infrastructure projects are set to reinforce the Beira Corridor, Zimbabwe's principal gateway for fuel imports and international trade, while enhancing connectivity within the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Speaking during a tour of the Beira Oil Terminal, Mozambique Ports and Railways (CFM) chief of service Lucas Vidigal said the expansion would increase the terminal's annual fuel-handling capacity from five million tonnes to seven million tonnes. The project includes the installation of two new 16-inch pipelines and two modern loading arms dedicated to petrol and diesel, enabling the terminal to handle more vessels and reduce turnaround times. "With this project, we will reduce the vessels' stay from three days to a day or one and a half days. We expect to finish the project next year and increase the number of vessels handled from 12 to 15 per month," Vidigal said. The expansion follows sustained growth in fuel volumes moving through the Port of Beira, with Zimbabwe remaining the terminal's largest customer. CFM statistics show that of the 1.86 million tonnes of fuel handled during the first half of 2026, 1.3 million tonnes about 70%, was destined for Zimbabwe. Fuel transported to Zimbabwe has risen steadily over the past five years, increasing from 1.26 million tonnes in 2021 to 2.39 million tonnes in 2025, highlighting Zimbabwe's growing energy demand. Zimbabwe's fuel imports through Beira significantly exceed those of neighbouring Zambia, Malawi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Botswana and Mozambique. Zimbabwe's Consul General in Beira, Malvern Bere, said authorities were also pushing for the expansion of the port's cargo terminal to accommodate increasing trade volumes. "Virtually all fuel destined for Zimbabwe passes through the Port of Beira, making it critical that the expansion project is expedited to meet growing demand and support economic activity," Bere said. He added that Zimbabwe's rapid infrastructure development had convinced CFM to accelerate investment in the terminal. "As the economy grows, demand for fuel will inevitably increase. Adequate fuel supplies are essential to sustaining industrialisation, infrastructure development and overall economic growth," he said. Meanwhile, Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution Misheck Mugadza welcomed progress on the Beira expansion and the planned modernisation of Forbes Border Post, describing the projects as critical to regional integration. He said fuel vessels that previously waited more than 100 days to offload were now taking an average of six days following interventions by Zimbabwe and Mozambique. The two countries have also agreed to establish a One-Stop Border Post at Forbes-Machipanda to reduce congestion and speed up the movement of goods and travellers. "The introduction of a one-stop border post will go a long way in addressing traffic congestion and delays while enhancing trade efficiency and improving the ease of doing business," Mugadza said. The infrastructure investments are expected to support Zimbabwe's industrialisation agenda, improve supply chain resilience and strengthen the country's position as a regional logistics hub under Vision 2030. Beira Oil Terminal expansion Zimbabwe

Harare ranked 165th out of 173 cities in the Economist Intelligence Unit's Global Liveability Index 2026, with healthcare, infrastructure and stability identified as its weakest areas. HARARE – Harare has been ranked among the 10 least liveable cities in the world in the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) Global Liveability Index 2026, highlighting persistent challenges in healthcare, infrastructure and public services despite ongoing efforts to modernise the capital. The Zimbabwean capital ranked 165th out of 173 cities, making it the eighth least liveable city globally, according to the annual survey, which assesses living conditions in major cities worldwide. The Global Liveability Index 2026, compiled by the Economist Intelligence Unit, evaluates cities across five key indicators: stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure. "The concept of liveability is simple: it assesses which locations around the world provide the best or the worst living conditions," the EIU said in its report. Harare recorded an overall score of 45 out of 100, with its weakest performance in healthcare (33), infrastructure (36), and stability (40). The city fared relatively better in culture and environment (57) and education (67). According to the EIU, each city is assessed using more than 30 qualitative and quantitative indicators measuring the quality of urban life. Harare was one of four African cities listed among the world's 10 least liveable cities, alongside Lagos (Nigeria), Algiers (Algeria) and Tripoli (Libya). The EIU said cities occupying the bottom of the rankings typically suffer from prolonged conflict, political instability, weak infrastructure or widespread poverty. "The bottom ten cities in our index have nearly all been affected by war or poverty, or both, with all scoring particularly poorly for stability," the report noted. Harare ranked above Kyiv (Ukraine), Port Moresby (Papua New Guinea), Lagos, Algiers, Karachi (Pakistan), Dhaka (Bangladesh), Tripoli and Damascus (Syria). At the top of the rankings, Copenhagen, Denmark, retained its position as the world's most liveable city for a second consecutive year, achieving perfect scores in stability, education and infrastructure. It was followed by Vienna, Austria, in second place and Melbourne, Australia, in third. Harare's ranking is likely to intensify debate over the state of urban service delivery in Zimbabwe's capital, where residents have long raised concerns over deteriorating roads, intermittent water supplies, ageing infrastructure and healthcare challenges. Urban planners say improvements in public infrastructure, healthcare delivery, waste management and municipal governance will be critical if the city is to improve its standing in future global liveability rankings. Harare least liveable city 2026

Zimbabwe Warriors defender Shane Maroodza made his European club debut for FK Sarajevo in the UEFA Conference League, playing the full 90 minutes in a 1-1 draw against FC Inter Turku. HARARE – Zimbabwe Warriors defender Shane Maroodza reached another career milestone on Thursday after making his European club debut for FK Sarajevo in the UEFA Conference League. The 22-year-old centre-back played the full 90 minutes as Bosnian side Sarajevo secured a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Finnish club FC Inter Turku in the first leg of the competition's opening qualifying round. The appearance marked Maroodza's first match in European club competition and continued the defender's impressive rise since joining FK Sarajevo in October 2025. Maroodza has quickly established himself as a key figure in Sarajevo's defence, earning regular starts through a series of consistent performances in the Bosnian Premier League. His form has not gone unnoticed, with reports linking the Zimbabwe international to a potential move back to England. Championship side Cardiff City are reportedly monitoring the defender closely and are believed to be preparing an offer as they seek to strengthen their backline ahead of the new season. A move to Cardiff would mark a return to English football for Maroodza following his successful spell in Bosnia. Maroodza's continued development will also be welcomed by Zimbabwe national team coach Michael Nees, with the Warriors defender gaining valuable experience against European opposition. His debut in UEFA competition represents another important step in his career and further raises Zimbabwe's profile in European football as more local internationals secure opportunities on the continent. FK Sarajevo and FC Inter Turku will meet again in the return leg next week, with the winner progressing to the next qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League. Shane Maroodza UEFA Conference League debut

Transport Minister Felix Mhona says Zimbabwe is accelerating implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market to improve regional connectivity, trade and tourism. HARARE – Zimbabwe has been urged to move beyond policy commitments and accelerate implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) as government officials, regulators and aviation industry leaders met in Harare to chart the future of African aviation integration. Speaking at the SAATM Pilot Implementation Project Airshow, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona said the event's theme, Accelerating Air Transport Liberalisation to Improve Continental Connectivity and Integration, underscored Africa's shared vision of seamless air transport. "The SAATM facilitates the seamless movement of people, goods, services and investment across the African continent, as we move towards the Africa we want by the year 2063," Mhona said. He said Zimbabwe was reviewing all Bilateral Air Services Agreements (BASAs) with SAATM member states to ensure they comply with the Yamoussoukro Decision, the African Union framework that seeks to liberalise air transport across the continent. Mhona said Zimbabwe had implemented all eight SAATM concrete measures since signing the Solemn Commitment in 2022 and had endorsed the Lomé Ministerial Declaration adopted in June 2026, which calls for faster implementation of the continental aviation initiative. He noted that intra-African air connectivity had improved significantly, rising from 14.5 percent in 2021 to 23 percent in 2025, reflecting growing momentum towards an integrated African aviation market. The minister also highlighted major infrastructure investments undertaken through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), including upgrades at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, Victoria Falls International Airport and Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport. According to Mhona, passenger handling capacity at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport has increased from approximately two million to 6.5 million passengers annually, positioning Zimbabwe to benefit from increased regional air traffic. African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) Secretary-General Adefunke Adeyemi urged African governments to shift from commitments to practical implementation. "It is a delivery platform. It is where policy must become routes, routes must become trade, and trade must become jobs," she said. Adeyemi said the Lomé Declaration reaffirmed the Yamoussoukro Decision as the legal foundation for African aviation liberalisation, while positioning SAATM as the practical mechanism for delivering greater regional connectivity. She said full implementation of SAATM could generate between US$450 million and US$700 million in additional GDP over five years, create 45,000 to 70,000 new jobs, and reduce intra-African airfares by 15 to 27 percent. "That is the opportunity before us. And, frankly, that is also the cost of delay," she said. Adeyemi proposed six immediate measures to accelerate Zimbabwe's implementation of SAATM, including establishing a National SAATM Implementation Task Force and expediting reforms to improve passenger facilitation. The recommendations include introducing electronic visa (e-visa) systems, strengthening Advance Passenger Information/Passenger Name Record (API/PNR) systems, and adopting risk-based border clearance to simplify cross-border travel. She said faster implementation would stimulate tourism, trade, investment and economic integration across Africa. "The African sky must no longer divide our economies. It must unite them, empower them and support our shared prosperity," Adeyemi said. The Single African Air Transport Market is one of the flagship projects of the African Union's Agenda 2063, aimed at creating a single unified air transport market by removing restrictions on air services between African countries and promoting competition, connectivity and economic growth. Single African Air Transport Market Zimbabwe

Health Minister Douglas Mombeshora says Zimbabwe's new National Health Strategy aims to increase domestic health funding, recruit 32,000 health workers and achieve universal health coverage by 2030. NORTON – The Zimbabwean government has unveiled an ambitious National Health Strategy (2026–2030) that seeks to transform the country's healthcare system by increasing domestic health funding, recruiting 32,000 additional health workers, and ensuring every public health facility is connected to the internet by 2030. The five-year strategy was launched on Thursday at Norton Hospital by Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora, who described it as a blueprint for achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and Zimbabwe's Vision 2030 development agenda. "Today, we are not just launching a document. We are making a solemn commitment to the people of Zimbabwe," Mombeshora said. "This strategy represents a defining moment in our nation's journey towards health and well-being, charting a transformative path that is both ambitious and, crucially, achievable." Among the strategy's flagship commitments is increasing domestic health financing to at least 15 percent of total government expenditure, in line with the Abuja Declaration, as Zimbabwe seeks to reduce its dependence on donor funding. The government also plans to double the country's health workforce by creating 32,000 new posts over the next five years to address chronic staff shortages affecting public hospitals and clinics. In a major digital transformation drive, all 1,953 health facilities nationwide will be connected to the internet by 2030 to improve service delivery, health information management and access to digital healthcare services. Mombeshora said Zimbabwe had made notable progress in several health indicators despite persistent financial constraints. He announced that the country had achieved the global 95-95-95 HIV treatment targets, with 95.1 percent of people living with HIV knowing their status, 100 percent of those diagnosed receiving treatment, and 96.1 percent achieving viral suppression. The minister also said maternal mortality had declined significantly, from 462 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2019 to an estimated 212 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2024. Life expectancy has meanwhile increased to 65 years, reflecting improvements in health outcomes. Between 2021 and 2025, the government constructed 200 new health facilities, bringing Zimbabwe's total number of public health institutions to 1,953. Despite the gains, Mombeshora acknowledged that Zimbabwe's public health system continues to face significant challenges, including staff attrition, inadequate financing and inefficient utilisation of available resources. He revealed that many public health facilities receive less than 50 percent of their allocated operational budgets, affecting service delivery. "Health financing remains a major constraint. Heavy reliance on donor funding, which fluctuates, and high out-of-pocket payments by households, which stood at 27.8 percent in 2023, expose families to catastrophic health expenditures and impoverishment," he said. The National Health Strategy seeks to strengthen domestic resource mobilisation, improve efficiency in health spending and expand access to quality healthcare services across both urban and rural communities. Government officials say successful implementation of the strategy will depend on sustained investment, stronger partnerships and continued reforms aimed at building a resilient and equitable healthcare system. Zimbabwe National Health Strategy 2026–2030

South African employers and landlords say the departure of thousands of foreign nationals has disrupted businesses and created labour shortages across several sectors. JOHANNESBURG – South African employers and landlords say the recent wave of anti-immigrant protests has left businesses struggling, as thousands of foreign nationals, many legally documented, have fled the country fearing for their safety. The departures follow weeks of intimidation and threats by vigilante groups, including March and March, which have campaigned for the removal of foreign nationals from South Africa. Among those affected is Mpumalanga ginger farmer Edward Latsky, who said the unrest has crippled his operations after most of his workforce fled despite possessing valid work documents. Latsky, one of South Africa's few commercial ginger producers who supplies about 30% of the country's ginger, said he was forced to suspend operations after protesters repeatedly targeted his farm. "I had to halt all work on the farm because buses and groups of people kept showing up to intimidate and even threaten us with death," Latsky told The Citizen. While he commended police for preventing violence from escalating, he said authorities failed to stop the intimidation or arrest those responsible. "Of my 50 legitimate workers, only seven remain. Those who lived in the village were physically abducted and forced into taxis, and many of their belongings were stolen and looted while the police turned a blind eye," he said. Latsky said all his foreign employees were legally employed, but protesters made no distinction between documented and undocumented migrants. The unrest has also affected property owners. An elderly landlord in Ivory Park, north of Johannesburg, said her rental business had virtually collapsed after foreign tenants fled. She said she previously accommodated ten tenants, most of whom have now left South Africa, including documented migrants who feared becoming targets. "I had 10 tenants, but most of them have left already. Some of them were even documented, but they were fearing for their lives," she said. "Government needs to address things in a way that does not cause fear, even to legal migrants." Property consultant Given Mashele, who specialised in finding accommodation for migrants in Johannesburg North, said demand had disappeared almost overnight as clients either returned to their home countries or relocated elsewhere. The anti-immigrant campaign has also disrupted employment. A 50-year-old Zimbabwean domestic worker said she lost her job after her employer asked her to leave, fearing accusations of employing and housing an undocumented foreign national. Meanwhile, a Johannesburg resident said she had been unable to retain her Malawian gardener despite repeated attempts to help him obtain legal documentation through the Department of Home Affairs. The accounts come as the Zimbabwean government continues assisting thousands of returning nationals. Authorities say more than 78,000 Zimbabweans have returned from South Africa since May, either through government-assisted repatriation or independently, following rising anti-immigrant tensions. Analysts warn that while businesses are feeling the immediate economic effects of labour shortages and reduced rental income, the long-term impact could extend to agriculture, domestic services and other sectors that have traditionally relied on migrant labour. South Africa anti-immigrant protests

JSC Secretary Walter Chikwanha says the Integrated Electronic Case Management System will improve transparency, accountability and efficiency in Zimbabwe's magistrates' courts. GWERU – The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has intensified preparations for the rollout of the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS) in Midlands Province, with Secretary Walter Chikwanha saying the digital platform will improve transparency, reduce corruption and enhance the efficient administration of justice. Chikwanha held stakeholder engagement meetings at magistrates' courts across the province ahead of the launch of IECMS Phase 4:4, which is scheduled for October. The engagements brought together justice sector stakeholders to familiarise them with the electronic case management system, which will digitise court processes from the filing of cases through to their final determination. Speaking during the meetings, Chikwanha said the new system would significantly reduce opportunities for corruption by creating a transparent and accountable electronic trail for every case handled by the courts. "With IECMS, corruption will be a thing of the past. Every case can be followed electronically and any form of delay or malpractice will be easily noticed," he said. According to the JSC, the Integrated Electronic Case Management System enables cases to be tracked in real time from the moment they are filed until they are concluded, improving accountability throughout the judicial process. Chikwanha said the digital platform would also strengthen oversight by allowing provincial magistrates to monitor court operations remotely. He explained that judicial officers would be able to assess the progress of all cases from their offices, making it easier to detect unnecessary delays, missing court records or any deliberate attempts to frustrate proceedings. The system is expected to improve case flow management, reduce paperwork and enhance efficiency in Zimbabwe's magistrates' courts. The rollout of IECMS forms part of the Judicial Service Commission's broader programme to modernise Zimbabwe's justice system through digital technologies. The electronic platform has already been introduced in several superior courts and is being expanded to magistrates' courts across the country in phases. Judicial officials say the system is expected to improve access to justice by reducing administrative bottlenecks, strengthening record management and enhancing public confidence in the courts through greater transparency and accountability. The Midlands rollout represents another milestone in the JSC's efforts to digitise court services and improve the delivery of justice. Integrated Electronic Case Management System Zimbabwe

The Ministry of Local Government says the new WhatsApp-based Citizens Scorecard will allow residents to anonymously rate council services and help improve local authority performance. HARARE – Zimbabwean residents can now rate the performance of their local authorities using a WhatsApp-based Citizens Scorecard, following the launch of a new digital platform aimed at strengthening accountability and improving service delivery. The platform, unveiled by President Emmerson Mnangagwa on June 18 in Harare, enables citizens to assess the quality of services provided by their councils through a simple WhatsApp interface. The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, marks a shift from traditional expert-led assessments by giving residents a direct role in evaluating the performance of their local authorities. Ministry spokesperson Gabriel Musvora said the Citizens Scorecard was designed to place residents at the centre of local governance. "The Citizen Scorecard gives residents a meaningful role in assessing their councils because they are the direct users of the services being provided," Musvora told Masvingo Mirror. Residents can access the platform by sending the word "Hi" to the WhatsApp number 0787 605 060. Users are then prompted to select their local authority before completing a short questionnaire rating various council services. The survey covers key service delivery areas, including: Water supply Sanitation Refuse collection Road maintenance Housing services Public health services Corporate governance Social amenities The ministry said all responses are anonymous to encourage honest and constructive feedback. "Responses are anonymous and secure, creating an environment where people can freely express their experiences without fear," Musvora said. The platform uses artificial intelligence (AI) to analyse responses in real time, identify recurring challenges and recommend practical interventions. According to Musvora, the system goes beyond collecting complaints by generating data-driven insights that can help councils improve service delivery. "The platform does not only collect complaints. It analyses information and recommends practical interventions to improve services," he said. For example, repeated complaints about water shortages in a particular municipality could enable authorities to identify trends, prioritise interventions and allocate resources more effectively. Musvora said feedback collected through the Citizens Scorecard will now form part of the government's assessment of local authority performance. Previously, council performance was measured primarily through expert evaluations conducted by government officials. "Previously local authority performance was largely measured through expert evaluations, but now residents will also have a direct say in determining how councils are performing," he said. The initiative forms part of the government's broader efforts to improve transparency, accountability and citizen participation in local governance as councils continue to face pressure over service delivery challenges such as water shortages, refuse collection and deteriorating road infrastructure. WhatsApp Citizens Scorecard Zimbabwe