The Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare says social assistance for older persons is means-tested and not automatically available to everyone aged 70 and above. HARARE – The Zimbabwean government has dismissed as false and misleading social media claims that all citizens aged 70 years and above are entitled to automatic monthly payments after registering at Makombe Building in Harare. In a public notice issued on Friday, Permanent Secretary for Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Pfungwa Kunaka said no such universal payment programme exists and urged the public to disregard the circulating messages. "The Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare has noted false messages circulating on social media claiming that all persons aged 70 years and above should go to Makombe Building in Harare to register for automatic monthly payments," Kunaka said. He clarified that while the government provides social assistance to older persons through various programmes, support is not based on age alone. Instead, beneficiaries are selected through a means-testing process in accordance with the Older Persons Act [Chapter 17:11] and the Older Persons Manual, which assess applicants based on vulnerability, income and other prescribed criteria. "Government, through the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, provides social assistance to all older persons, and this is done in line with the Older Persons Act [Chapter 17:11] and the Older Persons Manual, and support to older persons is means-tested. This means eligibility is assessed based on vulnerability, income and other criteria set out in the law and not on age alone," he said. The clarification follows the widespread circulation of misleading messages on WhatsApp and other social media platforms instructing elderly citizens to travel to Makombe Building to register for automatic monthly allowances. To counter the misinformation, the ministry outlined three key facts: There is no blanket monthly payment programme for all Zimbabweans aged 70 years and above. Social assistance is only available to older persons who meet specific vulnerability criteria prescribed by law. The Department of Social Development has not announced any mass registration exercise for elderly citizens at Makombe Building. Kunaka urged members of the public to verify information through official government channels before sharing it online, warning that misinformation can create unnecessary anxiety and inconvenience, particularly among vulnerable groups. "We urge citizens to ignore and not share unverified messages. For accurate information on programmes for older persons, visit your nearest District Social Development Office," he said. He also cautioned Zimbabweans against paying anyone claiming to facilitate access to government social welfare programmes. The ministry said the government continues to implement a range of social protection programmes targeting vulnerable members of society, including older persons, persons with disabilities, orphans and vulnerable children, and households in need. Kunaka said assistance is provided in accordance with established legal and policy frameworks to ensure that limited resources reach those who qualify. Authorities have urged the public to rely on official government announcements for information regarding social welfare programmes and to report suspected scams or misinformation to the relevant authorities. Zimbabwe over-70 monthly payments

HARARE — A dramatic shift in United States foreign health policy under President Donald Trump is reshaping Washington's relationship with Africa, with several countries, including Zimbabwe, rejecting new multi-million-dollar health funding agreements over concerns about sovereignty, medical data and national interests. After dismantling the US Agency for International Development (USAID) last year, the Trump administration has returned with a new model of foreign assistance that replaces traditional aid programmes with bilateral agreements requiring African governments to invest more in their own healthcare systems while advancing American strategic and commercial interests. While Washington says the approach promotes sustainability and self-reliance, critics argue it risks turning health diplomacy into a transactional exercise that could undermine decades of global cooperation. Zimbabwe is among a handful of African countries, including Ghana and Zambia, that have declined to sign the proposed Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs), citing concerns over the sharing of medical data and biological samples with the United States. The new policy represents one of the biggest changes in US global health strategy in decades. Instead of funding programmes through international organisations and non-governmental organisations, Washington now wants to work directly with governments while requiring them to shoulder a greater share of healthcare costs. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the agreements as a new chapter in US foreign policy. "Our aid to those countries will not just be dollars distributed to an NGO who then will go into the country and impose programmes," Rubio recently told a congressional committee. The first agreement was signed with Kenya, where the US committed US$1.6 billion while Nairobi pledged US$850 million over five years under a US$2.5 billion partnership. Washington hopes similar arrangements will eventually be concluded across Africa and other developing regions. Zimbabwe, however, has opted out. Government officials said proposed provisions requiring the sharing of health data and disease-causing pathogens raised concerns over national sovereignty and equitable access to any medicines or vaccines developed using Zimbabwean biological material. Authorities argued that existing World Health Organisation (WHO) mechanisms already provide internationally recognised frameworks for sharing pathogens while ensuring participating countries benefit from future medical breakthroughs. Officials also questioned whether Zimbabwe would receive guaranteed access to treatments developed by American pharmaceutical companies using locally sourced data. The decision came despite Zimbabwe previously benefiting from major US-funded HIV programmes, including PEPFAR, which supports treatment for more than one million Zimbabweans living with HIV. Zimbabwe is not alone in its reservations. Ghana also expressed concerns about the scope of health data requested under the agreements. Arnold Kavaarpuo, Executive Director of Ghana's Data Protection Commission, said the proposed arrangement offered little assurance over what would happen once sensitive information left African jurisdictions. "There were no real reciprocal measures when it comes to the protection of Ghanaian data and Ghanaian sovereignty," he said. Meanwhile, Zambia resisted linking health assistance to separate negotiations involving critical mineral resources, insisting the two issues should remain independent. The debate has intensified following a fresh Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The DRC accepted one of Washington's new bilateral agreements and has received US support during the outbreak. However, humanitarian organisations argue that earlier cuts to USAID weakened frontline preparedness by reducing staffing levels, emergency stockpiles and community health programmes before the outbreak emerged. Former US health officials have also questioned whether dismantling USAID slowed early detection and response efforts. The US disputes those claims, saying it has already committed US$270 million towards combating the Ebola outbreak and maintains that the new bilateral approach delivers more efficient and accountable assistance. Health governance experts say the controversy reflects a broader debate over Africa's place in global health diplomacy. While many governments agree they should invest more in their own healthcare systems, they are increasingly reluctant to accept agreements they believe compromise sovereignty or primarily serve foreign commercial interests. As more countries weigh whether to sign Washington's new health partnerships, Zimbabwe's decision underscores a growing insistence that future international cooperation must balance development assistance with national control over strategic resources, public health data and scientific research. Whether the Trump administration's new approach reshapes global health or deepens divisions between donor nations and recipients remains one of the defining questions for Africa's health sector. Zimbabwe US health aid

HARARE – The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has suspended its Secretary General, Tirivanhu Marimo, following a stormy National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting that reportedly descended into chaos as divisions within the labour federation deepened. According to NewZimbabwe.com, the NEC on Thursday resolved to suspend Marimo over allegations of misconduct, including claims that he was moonlighting. The federation has not publicly detailed the allegations. Sources familiar with the meeting said proceedings became heated, with executive members exchanging insults in confrontations that nearly turned physical. Marimo reportedly walked out before the meeting ended. The turmoil allegedly continued outside the boardroom, with the tyres of Marimo's official vehicle reportedly deflated by unknown individuals believed to be aligned to a faction seeking his removal. Locksmiths were also allegedly called in to prevent him from accessing his office. The legality of the suspension has been challenged by some within the labour movement, who argue that the NEC lacks constitutional authority to suspend an elected office-bearer. A senior trade unionist, who sits on the ZCTU General Council and spoke anonymously to NewZimbabwe.com, cited the federation's 2011 Constitution. "Based on the 2011 ZCTU Constitution, my view is no. The National Executive Committee does not have an express constitutional power to suspend an officer or official of the Congress," the official said. The official argued that disciplinary powers are expressly vested in the General Council. "Clause 16.5.2.4 provides that the General Council has power to consider, set aside or suspend, after charges have been preferred, a member trade union, associate member organisation and officer or official." In a brief statement, ZCTU President Florence Taruvinga confirmed Marimo's suspension and announced that Kudakwashe Munengiwa had been appointed acting secretary-general. "The ZCTU would like to notify all affiliates, stakeholders and cooperating partners of the suspension of the ZCTU Secretary General Tirivanhu Marimo over acts of misconduct," Taruvinga said. "Marimo is suspended and relieved of all official duties on behalf of ZCTU. Meanwhile, the acting Secretary General is Kudakwashe Munengiwa." Marimo was elected secretary-general during the ZCTU Extraordinary Congress held on 31 August 2025. His suspension comes only days after he publicly alleged that there was a coordinated attempt to remove him through unconstitutional means ahead of the federation's Regional, Youth and Women's Conferences, as well as the 10th General Conference, scheduled between July and October 2026. Marimo had not publicly responded to the suspension at the time of publication. ZCTU suspends Tirivanhu Marimo

The City of Harare has urged residents, parents and schools to remain vigilant after confirming several cases of chickenpox in the capital. HARARE – The City of Harare has confirmed several cases of chickenpox in the capital and is urging residents to remain vigilant as health authorities intensify efforts to contain the spread of the highly contagious viral disease. In a public notice issued on Friday, July 10, the city's Health Department said all confirmed patients were receiving appropriate medical care and that surveillance had been strengthened in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC). The local authority said the current situation was being closely monitored and there was no cause for public panic, but stressed that early detection and adherence to public health measures would be critical in preventing further infections. Chickenpox, medically known as varicella, spreads through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes, as well as through direct contact with fluid from the disease's characteristic skin blisters. Health officials warned that infected individuals can spread the virus one to two days before the rash develops and remain contagious until all blisters have dried and formed scabs. Residents have been urged to seek medical attention if they develop symptoms such as fever, headache, loss of appetite, fatigue, body weakness and an itchy rash that progresses into fluid-filled blisters before crusting over. The City of Harare said infants, pregnant women, adults and people with weakened immune systems face a greater risk of severe complications and should seek prompt medical care if symptoms develop. Parents and guardians have been advised to monitor children daily for symptoms of chickenpox and keep those with suspected or confirmed infections at home until all blisters have completely crusted over. Schools and childcare centres should be notified immediately when a learner is diagnosed to enable health authorities to monitor potential exposure and prevent further transmission. The city also called on schools to strengthen surveillance for pupils presenting with fever and skin rashes, improve classroom ventilation, promote regular handwashing and report any suspected outbreaks without delay. To minimise the spread of infection, health officials urged residents to: Wash hands regularly with soap and clean water or use alcohol-based hand sanitisers. Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow. Avoid close contact with infected individuals. Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces. Ensure eligible children receive routine chickenpox vaccination where available and recommended by healthcare providers. The City of Harare reiterated that while the confirmed cases are under close observation, public cooperation remains essential in containing the outbreak. "Prompt reporting of suspected cases and strict adherence to public health measures will be critical in limiting the spread and protecting communities," the city said. Health authorities continue to monitor the situation and have urged residents to remain informed through official public health updates. Harare chickenpox cases

The Zimbabwe Republic Police say Melusi Pilile 31, has been linked to 31 armed robbery cases in Budiriro and Glen View as investigations continue. Meta Description: Zimbabwe Republic Police have arrested a 31-year-old man suspected of committing 31 armed robberies in Budiriro and Glen View and are appealing for more victims to come forward. By Staff Reporter | Southerton Business Times HARARE – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has arrested a 31-year-old man suspected of carrying out a string of armed robberies that allegedly terrorised residents of Budiriro and Glen View in Harare. Police identified the suspect as Melusi Pilile, whose arrest was confirmed by ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi in a statement to ZTN Prime on Friday. According to police, investigators have so far linked Pilile to 31 armed robbery cases, with investigations still underway. "So far, the Zimbabwe Republic Police has identified thirty-one cases of armed robbery where the suspect was involved," Nyathi said. Police are now appealing to members of the public, particularly victims of robberies in Harare, to assist with the ongoing investigation by identifying the suspect and providing any information that could strengthen the cases against him. "We want to appeal to the public, especially in Harare, to come forward and assist the Zimbabwe Republic Police, one, by identifying and linking the suspect to these offences and also to assist in the current identification process which is being conducted by the Zimbabwe Republic Police," Nyathi said. Commissioner Nyathi also urged Zimbabweans to remain vigilant and avoid walking through secluded areas, particularly after dark, to reduce the risk of becoming victims of crime. "We wanted to urge Zimbabweans to avoid walking through secluded places. Let us avoid walking through isolated places, particularly at night. In the process, we'll have people being mugged or being attacked," he said. The arrest comes as police continue to intensify operations targeting violent crime in Harare and other urban centres. Authorities have encouraged anyone who may have been a victim of the suspect or who has information relevant to the investigation to report to the nearest police station. Pilile is expected to appear in court to face armed robbery charges. Under Zimbabwean law, he is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Melusi Pilile arrested

HARARE – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has arrested two women accused of defrauding more than 100 job seekers through a fake WhatsApp employment scheme, while separately apprehending a suspect linked to 34 armed robbery cases in Harare's western suburbs. In a statement, police identified the fraud suspects as Clara Chiwashira (20) and Chipo Masuku (22). According to the ZRP, the pair allegedly lured job seekers into a WhatsApp group called "Job Opportunities", where they advertised fake employment opportunities as till operators, housekeepers and merchandisers. "The ZRP arrested two suspects, Clara Chiwashira (20) and Chipo Masuku (22), for committing fraud through social media platforms. The suspects duped over 100 people of amounts ranging from USD100 each after luring the purported applicants to join a WhatsApp group dubbed 'Job Opportunities'," police said. Investigators allege that victims were required to pay fees of about US$100 each in exchange for promised employment. However, the advertised jobs never materialised after the payments were made. Police are now appealing for information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects' alleged accomplice, identified only as Boss Kevy, also known as Charles Chizimbe. In a separate operation, police arrested Melusi Delile (35) in connection with 34 armed robbery cases reported in Budiriro, Glenview, Glen Norah and Highfields. According to the ZRP, Delile allegedly targeted pedestrians using isolated footpaths, bus stops and poorly lit areas before robbing them of cellphones, cash and other valuables. Police believe he worked with a gang of four or five accomplices, who remain at large. Investigations into both cases are continuing. The latest arrests come amid growing concern over online employment scams targeting desperate job seekers through social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Facebook. Police have urged members of the public to verify job advertisements before making any payments and warned that genuine employers rarely demand recruitment fees from prospective employees. Authorities also appealed to anyone with information that could assist in locating the outstanding robbery suspects or the alleged fraud accomplice to report to the nearest police station. The accused will appear in court to answer the charges. Under Zimbabwean law, they are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Zimbabwe WhatsApp job scam

HARARE – Renowned South African composer Lebo M has claimed he now requires personal security because some Zimbabweans allegedly want to kill him following his US$27 million lawsuit against United States-based Zimbabwean comedian Learnmore Jonasi. The legal dispute stems from an appearance by Learnmore Jonasi, whose real name is Learnmore Mwanyenyeka, on the One54 Africa Podcast, where he jokingly translated the opening lyrics of Disney's The Circle of Life. Lebo M, who is internationally recognised for his work on The Lion King, later filed a lawsuit seeking US$27 million in damages. Speaking during a subsequent appearance on the same podcast, Lebo M said the backlash against him had escalated beyond criticism. "Zimbabweans want to kill me literally. I have got security around me now because of this. Why do you think I came here?" he said. When the podcast hosts asked whether he was serious, the award-winning producer doubled down on his claims. "Are you kidding me? Would I say something like that on your camera? Yes, I have security around me now because he fuelled so much anger and misinformation from your platform without this context, which has made people so angry and then on top of that, this nonsense that's going on in Africa about xenophobia in South Africa." Lebo M argued that the dispute had been presented publicly without what he considered the full context, adding that heightened tensions over xenophobia in South Africa had intensified public reactions. His remarks were met with widespread scepticism from many Zimbabweans on social media, who disputed the assertion that anyone was attempting to harm him. One X user, @The_Tonga_Queen, wrote: "He is lying. Pinocchio this one." Another user, @winston_zw, commented: "He is lying about Zimbabweans wanting to kill him though... we might have to sue him for lying. That's defamation of character, we ain't no killers." A third user, @Gifsal1, wrote: "Zimbabweans do not want to kill you. They just called you out for a misguided response to a joke. The project is 'The Polygamist', adopted from a book by Zimbabwean Sue Nyathi. You are a great artist! Lead by example." Meanwhile, Learnmore Jonasi recently updated his followers on the legal proceedings, saying Lebo M had amended his lawsuit by withdrawing the defamation claims. According to Learnmore, the case is now centred on alleged trademark rights relating to the phrase "It's a Lion." The lawsuit continues to attract widespread attention in both Zimbabwe and South Africa, with many closely following the outcome because of its potential implications for comedy, intellectual property and freedom of expression. Neither a court nor any law enforcement agency has publicly confirmed Lebo M's allegations that Zimbabweans are plotting to kill him. Lebo M Learnmore Jonasi lawsuit

Meta Description: A Tsholotsho man has been sentenced after pleading guilty to a bestiality charge involving a goat in a case heard at the Tsholotsho Magistrates' Court. TSHOLOTSHO – A 36-year-old man from Dugwi Line, Chefunye in Tsholotsho, Matabeleland North Province, has been sentenced after pleading guilty to a charge of bestiality involving a female goat. Leonard Moyo appeared before the Tsholotsho Magistrates' Court, where he admitted to the offence. Resident magistrate Maxwell Ncube sentenced Moyo to nine months' imprisonment. Three months of the sentence were suspended for five years on condition that he does not commit a similar offence during that period. The remaining six months were suspended on condition that he completes 315 hours of community service, meaning he will avoid serving a custodial sentence if he complies with the court's order. The court heard that the incident occurred during the early hours of July 2, 2026. According to court proceedings, the complainant, Sithabile Moyo (52), was awakened at around 1 am by unusual noises coming from her goat pen. Concerned that an animal may have been under attack, she went outside to investigate. Upon reaching the enclosure, she allegedly found Leonard Moyo inside the goat pen and immediately alerted her brother-in-law, Edward Moyo. Edward, accompanied by his son Thobukani Moyo, went to the scene. The court heard that the trio allegedly found the accused naked inside the goat enclosure with a white female goat. According to evidence presented in court, Moyo's clothing had been removed and placed nearby. His jeans and underwear were allegedly found on top of the goat pen poles, while his shoes and socks were recovered inside the enclosure. Prosecutors told the court that when the witnesses confronted the accused and questioned his actions, he did not respond. The matter was subsequently reported to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) at Chefunye Police Station, leading to his arrest. Moyo pleaded guilty when he appeared before the magistrates' court. Following his admission, the court convicted him and imposed the suspended custodial sentence together with community service. Bestiality remains a criminal offence under Zimbabwean law and carries penalties that may include imprisonment, fines or community service, depending on the circumstances of each case and the discretion of the court. Tsholotsho bestiality case

MUTARE – A 32-year-old domestic worker from Mutare has been sentenced to an effective 26 months in prison after setting his employer's property on fire following an argument over eating unripe oranges from her orchard. The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) said the incident occurred on June 27, 2026, at Chindoti Village under Chief Marange in Manicaland Province. According to prosecutors, the man became enraged after his 64-year-old employer instructed him to stop eating unripe oranges growing in her orchard. "On the 27th of June 2026 at Chindoti Village, Chief Marange, the offender, who was employed as a domestic worker, became angry after his 64-year-old employer ordered him to stop eating unripe oranges from her orchard," the NPAZ said. The prosecution told the court that after the confrontation, the domestic worker deliberately set a thatched kitchen hut on fire before moving to a nearby two-roomed house, which he also allegedly torched. "Following the argument, the offender went on to set fire to a thatched kitchen hut. He then proceeded to a two-roomed house and lit it up again," the NPAZ said. The authority said the accused armed himself with an axe and threatened to kill anyone who attempted to extinguish the blaze, preventing neighbours and family members from rescuing property from the burning buildings. The fire completely destroyed the two structures and household property valued at approximately US$10,193. Among the items lost were: 16 bags of maize Five bags of groundnuts Two bags of round nuts Two bags of rapoko Four bags of fertiliser Six bags of cement Assorted household groceries and other property The man was convicted of malicious damage to property. He was sentenced to 36 months' imprisonment, with 10 months suspended on condition that he pays compensation equivalent to the full value of the damaged property. He will therefore serve an effective 26-month prison sentence unless he complies with the court's compensation order. The case highlights the serious legal consequences of arson and malicious damage to property under Zimbabwean law, offences that carry custodial sentences, particularly where significant financial loss and threats of violence are involved. The National Prosecuting Authority has repeatedly urged members of the public to resolve disputes peacefully rather than resorting to criminal acts that endanger lives and destroy property. Mutare domestic worker jailed

Mai Chenesai is at her stall by five in the morning, before the frost has lifted off the roofs of Mbare. Her hands are cracked from the cold and from washing vegetables in water she carries from a communal tap. She wears two jerseys, a doek, and a blanket knotted at her waist like an apron. By the time the sun is high enough to warm the tarmac, she has already spent three hours in a temperature her body was never built to withstand without proper shelter, proper clothing, proper anything. Ten kilometres away, in a Borrowdale home with underfloor heating and a gas geyser, winter is a mood. Candles are lit. Soup is served. Someone remarks, over a glass of red wine, that Harare's winter light is "really quite beautiful this year." Zimbabwe does not experience one winter. It experiences several, stacked on top of each other according to income, geography, and proximity to power, both electrical and political. The Cold as Class Marker We tend to speak of winter as a shared national experience, a season that arrives for everyone in June and leaves everyone in August. This is a comforting fiction. In reality, winter in Zimbabwe is a magnifying glass held up to inequality that exists all year round but becomes lethal, or at least visibly cruel, only when temperatures drop. Consider what it costs to be warm. A household with reliable ZESA and a functioning circuit can flick a switch. A household without, which, depending on the suburb and the week, may be most of them, must buy firewood, paraffin, or gas, all of which have become luxury goods dressed up as necessities. Firewood prices spike every June with the predictability of a tax. In rural Nzvimbo, in Chiweshe, in Chivi, in Binga, families burn through savings meant for school fees just to keep a fire going through the night, because the alternative is a child coughing through winter with no clinic within reach and no blanket thick enough. This is not weather. This is policy, expressed through temperature. The Body Keeps the Score Zimbabwe's health system, already stretched thin, absorbs a seasonal spike in respiratory illness that falls disproportionately on the poor. Pneumonia in infants. Bronchitis in the elderly. Asthma attacks in overcrowded, poorly ventilated high-density housing where five people sleep in a room built for two, sharing whatever warmth their bodies can generate because the walls offer none. Meanwhile, the well-insulated suburbs experience winter as an aesthetic: a reason to wear a nice coat, not a reason to fear for a grandmother's life. Our public discourse rarely names this directly. We talk about load shedding as an inconvenience: missed Zoom calls, spoiled meat in the fridge, without reckoning with what it means for a family with no backup, no generator, no solar, no choice. Winter does not create this vulnerability. It exposes it, the way a receding tide exposes what was always beneath the surface. A Season That Should Embarrass Us There is a version of Zimbabwe that could exist, one where winter is genuinely a shared, manageable season rather than a stratified ordeal. It would require treating energy access, housing quality, and rural health infrastructure not as separate policy silos but as a single, urgent question of dignity. It would require our institutions, public and private, to stop treating the poor's suffering as seasonal noise and start treating it as an annual, entirely predictable failure of planning. Shakespeare's "winter of discontent" was made glorious summer by the sun of York, a change in fortune, a change in power. Zimbabwe's winter of discontent will not be resolved by better weather. It will be resolved, if it ever is, by a redistribution of warmth: literal and structural. Until then, Mai Chenesai will keep arriving before the frost lifts, wrapped in whatever she has, while the rest of the country debates whether winter this year is "quite beautiful." It is. For some. Simbarashe Namusi is a strategic communications consultant and columnist writing on governance, accountability, and civic identity in Zimbabwe. inequality in Zimbabwe

Makoni District has identified several communal and resettlement areas affected by illegal land allocations as Government intensifies efforts to curb so-called sabhuku deals. MAKONI – Makoni District has identified several communal and resettlement areas where illegal land allocations, commonly known as "sabhuku deals," are rampant, as Government intensifies efforts to curb unlawful settlements across Zimbabwe. The revelations were made during a full council meeting on Tuesday, where Assistant District Development Coordinator (DDC) Lloyd Chirombe, representing Makoni DDC Edwin Mashindi, said the district was continuously compiling and updating information on illegal land allocations for submission to the Office of the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution. "We keep receiving issues of sabhuku deals and we have a template which we keep updating which is going to the Office of the Minister of State," Chirombe told councillors. Chirombe said the highest number of reported illegal land allocations in communal areas had been recorded in: Ward 16: Munyengwa, Gutyure, Tikwi, Ziumbe and Mwarimba. Ward 5: Tenda, Mugadza and Chapwenya. Ward 19: St Luke's area. Ward 27: Mbodza and Rukweza. Authorities have also identified several resettlement areas where illegal allocations are allegedly taking place. The affected areas include: Ward 20: Gwindingwi. Ward 9: Villages 39, 13, 9, 38, 21, 23, 25 and 19. Ward 30: Villages 34 and 35. Ward 35. Ward 11: Jerusalema. Ward 18: Chirimutsitu. Ward 17: Everton and Zunidza. The district's findings form part of a nationwide Government exercise to establish a comprehensive database of areas affected by sabhuku deals, which involve the illegal sale or allocation of communal and State land without legal authority. The compilation follows a recent directive requiring Provincial Affairs and Devolution Permanent Secretaries to document illegal land allocation hotspots in their respective provinces as part of efforts to restore order in land administration. Speaking at a provincial stakeholders' meeting on illegal land allocations in Mutare, Manicaland Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Misheck Mugadza warned that authorities would take firm action against those involved in unlawful land transactions. "The President has made his position clear, illegal land allocations will not be tolerated under the Second Republic," Mugadza said. Government has repeatedly warned members of the public against purchasing land through unauthorised individuals, including traditional leaders and land barons who do not have the legal mandate to allocate State or communal land. Officials say illegal settlements often result in disputes over land ownership, poor spatial planning, inadequate infrastructure and difficulties in providing essential public services. The latest audit is expected to assist authorities in identifying affected communities, strengthening enforcement of land administration laws and preventing further illegal occupation of communal and resettlement land. Makoni sabhuku deals

Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume says repeated robberies targeting City of Harare district offices suggest criminals may be receiving inside information on municipal cash movements. HARARE – Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume says the City of Harare suspects an insider may be colluding with armed robbers targeting council district offices, following a series of break-ins that have seen thousands of United States dollars stolen from municipal revenue centres. Speaking at an Integrity and Accountability Summit hosted by Transparency International Zimbabwe (TIZ), Mafume revealed that approximately US$7,000 was stolen from one of the city's banking halls earlier this week in what he described as the latest in a pattern of carefully coordinated robberies. The mayor said the repeated attacks, which have targeted council offices responsible for collecting revenue, suggest the perpetrators have prior knowledge of when cash is available. "We are trying to digitalise as much as possible. Coincidentally, this morning, I just received that US$6,000 or US$7,000 was stolen from one of our banking halls," Mafume said. Mafume said the City of Harare operates 18 district offices, many of which process cash payments from residents for municipal services. According to the mayor, the offices have become frequent targets for criminals, with robberies occurring once or twice every month. "We've got about 18 district offices. Once every month or twice every month, there is a robbery at the district offices," he said. He suggested the timing of the attacks points to possible collusion from within the local authority. "It's linked to corruption in the sense that these thieves seem to always break in when there's money." Mafume said the suspects appear to know precisely when significant amounts of cash are being held at district offices, avoiding days when little or no revenue has been collected. The remarks come as the City of Harare continues efforts to expand digital payment systems in a bid to reduce cash handling and minimise opportunities for theft. The mayor's comments followed a robbery at the Greendale District Office in the early hours of Tuesday. City of Harare spokesperson Stanley Gama confirmed that the incident occurred at around 3 am, adding that investigations are underway. Police and council security officials are examining the circumstances surrounding the break-in, although no arrests have yet been announced. The latest robbery has renewed concerns about security at municipal revenue collection centres and the vulnerability of cash-based payment systems. Governance experts have consistently argued that expanding electronic payment platforms, strengthening internal controls and improving surveillance systems are among the most effective ways of reducing opportunities for theft and corruption within local authorities. The City of Harare has in recent years encouraged residents to use electronic payment platforms, including bank transfers and mobile money services, as part of broader efforts to modernise revenue collection and improve financial accountability. Harare district office robberies