Hillcrest School in Mutare has approached the High Court seeking an urgent order to stop gold mining activities at Mt Sinai in Toronto, near the scenic Christmas Pass area. The school, represented by Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), wants Toronto Mines and other respondents to immediately halt mining and related activities, arguing that the operations are threatening the environment and disrupting learning at the school. The urgent application was filed by ZLHR lawyers Calexy Maunga (Jnr), Tatenda Sigauke and Dorothy Mutungura. According to the court papers, increased open-cast mining activities at Toronto are causing significant disruption to Hillcrest School’s operations and affecting its ability to provide a suitable learning environment. Hillcrest, which has operated for more than 41 years, is located near Christmas Pass, one of Mutare’s major gateways and an area known for its scenic landscape and environmentally sensitive surroundings. The school alleges that dust, noise, heavy machinery and other mining-related activities are affecting classes and the well-being of learners and staff. ZLHR said the case also raises broader concerns about environmental protection and the rights of communities living near mining operations. School Seeks Broad Mining Ban Hillcrest is asking the High Court to order Toronto Mines and four other respondents — Calvar House Investments (Private) Limited, Maxwell Chad, Rosa Villa Investments (Private) Limited and Golden Cube Investments (Private) Limited — to stop excavation and construction activities at Mt Sinai. The school is also seeking an order requiring the respondents to remove excavators, heavy machinery, processing equipment and other mining-related equipment from the site pending lawful authorisation of the operations. In addition, the school wants an interdict preventing the respondents, their employees, agents, contractors or anyone acting on their behalf from conducting mining-related activities at the site. The activities listed in the application include mining, excavation, crushing, processing, mineral recovery, heap leaching, further excavation, stockpiling of excavated material and construction or use of mining infrastructure. Licences and Environmental Approvals Hillcrest argues that mining activities should not continue unless all required statutory licences, permits, environmental approvals and other authorisations have been obtained from the relevant regulatory authorities. The application places the environmental and educational concerns at the centre of the dispute, with the school seeking judicial intervention to stop activities it says are already disrupting its operations. The case comes amid growing concerns over the impact of mining activities on communities and environmentally sensitive areas across Zimbabwe. The High Court is now being asked to determine whether the mining operations at Mt Sinai should be halted pending compliance with the country's regulatory requirements. Hillcrest School Toronto mine

More than 200 people occupying residential stands at Sadza Growth Point have been ordered to leave after the Government said the land was intended for just 39 approved beneficiaries. More than 200 people have illegally occupied residential stands at Sadza Growth Point that were earmarked for just 39 beneficiaries, prompting the Government to order their removal. Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe, who visited Chikomba District on Friday, said the Government would not regularise the illegal occupation as authorities step up efforts to bring land administration under control. Garwe said the affected people had occupied the stands outside the approved allocation process and would have to vacate the land. Only 39 beneficiaries were originally supposed to receive the residential stands, but the number of occupants has since risen to more than 200. The dispute has also renewed concerns over informal land allocations, commonly referred to as “Sabhuku deals”, in which land is allegedly allocated outside established council and Government procedures. Garwe warned traditional leaders against participating in such arrangements, saying those found involved in illegal land allocations could lose their positions. He said the Government had the authority to replace village heads who acted outside the law and reminded traditional leaders that their powers must be exercised within the Constitution and other relevant legislation. Wetlands, Grazing Areas Under Threat The Sadza dispute is part of a wider challenge facing authorities as illegal settlements spread into areas not designated for residential development. Traditional leaders told Garwe that wetlands and grazing areas were also under pressure from illegal occupation. Chief Neshangwe said people should not be allowed to establish homes in wetlands or grazing areas, while emphasising the need for traditional leaders and councils to work together to prevent unplanned settlements. Several village heads supported the Government's position. Sabhuku Makuvaza called for people involved in illegal land transactions to face arrest, while Sabhuku Munondo backed the removal of people who had occupied land unlawfully. Gilstone Model for Illegal Settlement Crackdown Garwe cited Gilstone as an example of the Government's approach to illegal settlements. More than 5 000 illegal settlers were removed from the area, paving the way for planned development. The minister said Sadza and other growth points should similarly pursue orderly development rather than allowing settlements to expand without the necessary approvals. He also directed councils to tackle informal trading by establishing designated vending areas. The directive forms part of a broader Government effort to restore order in residential and commercial spaces and ensure that land is allocated and developed through approved planning processes. More than 200 people occupying residential stands illegally at Sadza Growth Point face removal after the Government rejected plans to regularise the settlement. Sadza illegal settlers

Alick Macheso has dismissed reports that he blocked businessman Wicknell Chivayo from giving vehicles to members of Orchestra Mberikwazvo, saying the claims are false. The sungura star says band members are still expecting their Toyota Aquas from Japan. Sungura star Alick Macheso has denied claims that he stopped businessman Wicknell Chivayo from giving vehicles to members of his Orchestra Mberikwazvo band. Macheso said reports circulating on social media suggesting he had blocked the gifts were false and urged the public not to associate the band with information that did not come from its official representatives. “The stories circulating are not true. Please do not involve or associate our brand with information that is not true or that never came from us,” Macheso said. The claims emerged after reports suggested Macheso was concerned that giving vehicles to some band members while leaving others without cars could create jealousy and tensions within the group. Macheso, however, said band members were still expecting to receive the vehicles. He said the latest batch of Toyota Aqua vehicles was being imported from Japan and that the musicians had been told they would collect them sometime next week. The singer also thanked Chivayo for his continued support, describing the businessman as a consistent benefactor who has honoured his commitments to the band. The clarification comes amid growing public interest in Chivayo's support for local musicians, with his vehicle donations becoming a recurring topic on social media. Macheso's remarks appear intended to put to rest speculation about disagreements within Orchestra Mberikwazvo over the distribution of the vehicles. The band remains one of Zimbabwe's most prominent sungura acts, with Macheso continuing to command a large following locally and among Zimbabweans abroad. Alick Macheso Chivayo cars

By Valerie Mpundu CHITUNGWIZA — Tinodashe "Tintin" Mangenda, 22, is carrying forward his family's artistic heritage, one stone at a time. Working from the vibrant creative hub of Chitungwiza, the young sculptor is quietly building a distinct brand within Zimbabwe's renowned stone art movement. Since taking up the chisel in 2023, Mangenda notes that public response to his work has been overwhelmingly positive. His entry into stone carving was inspired by his father, veteran artist Farai Mangenda, who has been the primary driving force behind his creative development. Driven by a deep respect for his cultural heritage, Tintin remains committed to expanding the artistic foundation laid by his mentor. “I had always been fascinated by art. I grew up watching my dad, and that’s where my interest was piqued,” Tintin said. “From those early days of just admiring, I decided to try my own hand. Three years later, here I am.” Capturing the Female Form and Specialized Mediums A walk through Tintin's current portfolio reveals a clear, intentional theme: the vast majority of his sculptures depict female figures. “Well, I believe in giving my customers what they want,” he explained. “My clients mostly request female pieces, hence most of my stones are women.” For Tintin, the defining highlight of his journey has been mastering techniques and learning how to listen to the natural contours of the stone, “With the passing of each day, I have realized I am mastering my craft and making it better. That has given me a sense of satisfaction, yet I still yearn for more in terms of how to explore and navigate.” His pricing model is directly tied to the complexity of the raw material, fine detail, and labor hours required, “It’s all to do with the kind of stone I use. When I use hard stone, there’s a specific type of detail I put in for finesse, including jewelry and hairstyles. That, alongside the time invested in such a piece, determines the pricing.” Among the diverse mineral rocks available across Zimbabwe, Tintin has established a preferred specialty medium, “Having worked with different stones, I fancy butter jade as my specialty stone. It gives that nice, smooth, fine-detailed finish to my work.” Educating the Public on Visual Arts Despite his personal milestones, Tintin points out that more effort is required to develop and expand the local visual arts market: “Art is diverse, and I believe there is still a need for society to be educated on visual arts so they have a deeper understanding of what it entails.” As part of a new generation of Zimbabwean sculptors, he sees his role as bridging traditional stone heritage with contemporary storytelling: “People need to look at a piece and see more than just stone. They should be able to tell a story and feel the artist’s emotions during the time he put that piece together.” For Tintin, every strike of the mallet is about more than shaping raw rock it is about preserving a Zimbabwean narrative and ensuring future generations have a foundation to build upon. Tinodashe Mangenda, stone sculptor, Zimbabwe

Harare Derby Drama: Dynamos and CAPS United Battle to 1-1 Stalemate By Valerie Mpundu The Harare Derby ended in a stalemate, but delivered everything else: nostalgia, controversy, and late drama as Dynamos and CAPS United played out a pulse-pounding 1-1 draw. The afternoon began with a striking nod to club history. Dynamos’ choice of kit offered a direct tap into memory lane, evoking the nostalgia of the 1970s when they donned an all-red strip under British American Tobacco sponsorship. DeMbare wore red instead of their traditional blue, as their standard white away kit would have clashed with Makepekepe’s heavy green-and-white stripes. Early Friction and Tactical Battles The opening 20 minutes were tight and contested, with the referee awarding a string of decisions to Dynamos—much to the vocal disappointment of the green half of the stadium. Dynamos looked threatening early on, controlling the tempo and territorial advantage. Tension briefly spilled into the stands when a supporter in the CAPS United section was manhandled by rival fans after sitting in the wrong terrace. CAPS United forward Wadi showcased brilliant footwork just before the halftime break but failed to find the target. Frustration continued to grow among the Makepekepe faithful, with supporters calling for Hachiro to be substituted. Despite dominating the greater share of the first period, DeMbare went into the break without breaking the deadlock. Second-Half Breakthrough and Rapid Response The second half initially followed the same script. Dynamos maintained shape and possession, keeping CAPS United firmly on the defensive. The long-awaited breakthrough finally came when Wisdom Mtasa found the back of the net for DeMbare, sending the iconic Vietnam End into absolute eruption. However, the jubilation was short-lived. Before Dynamos could settle into their lead, CAPS United answered back almost immediately through Obriel Chirinda, silencing the Vietnam End and instantly restoring high-wire tension to the encounter. Reinvigorated by the equalizer, Makepekepe grew in confidence and launched a sustained offensive, looking like the side most likely to snatch a late winner. In one of the lighter moments of the afternoon, former Dynamos forward Rodrick Mutuma was spotted sitting in the CAPS United terrace, drawing good-natured banter and laughs from the Green Machine crowd. Ultimately, neither side could find a decisive second goal. It ended as a derby of moments rather than a derby of winners, a memorable showcase for the purists, an entertaining draw for neutrals, and a match that guarantees plenty of debate on the journey home. Harare Derby Dynamos vs CAPS United

By Valerie Mpundu Zimbabwean Afro-jazz band Kashe Ngoma, fronted by Agga Nyabinde, has recorded an East African remix of their fan-favorite single "Kushanda." The track features Kenyan Afro-pop artist Ima Music and Ugandan multi-instrumentalist Aliddeki Brian, and will be included on Kashe Ngoma's upcoming album Toenda Mberi. The cross-border collaboration was sparked at the recent Music Imbizo Festival in Durban, South Africa, where Kashe Ngoma performed as the sole Zimbabwean act among 21 international showcases. “We were drawn to each other’s rhythm and cohesion,” said Agga Nyabinde. “We went straight into the studio at the festival, and that’s how the remix was born. Zimbabwe, Uganda, and Kenya in one song—that’s the Africa we want to build.” A Song of Hope and Resilience Kenyan Afro-pop and Afro-R&B artist Ima Music brought Kiswahili lyrics and a message of endurance to the track. A singer, songwriter, fine artist, and practicing lawyer who began her musical career in 2017, Ima described the recording session as divinely timed. “Agga called me for rehearsal on day two. It was sudden and impromptu, but I knew this was bigger than me,” she said. “As Africans, we carry hope. We show up even when the days are hard. We build, we create, we thrive. That’s what this song is about.” Ima chose to perform in pure Kiswahili to connect with listeners across the continent: “It’s African, it’s ours, and it connects straight to the soul. I believe Africans will resonate with this because we are hardworking people who keep pushing for a better tomorrow.” For Ima, the gathering in Durban went beyond a standard performance showcase. “It opened me to African thought and systems. I learned that culture is an infrastructure. When Africans come together, we become a force to reckon with. Our sound is distinct, our story is powerful.” "Music Travels Across Borders" Ugandan recording artist, educator, and traditional instrumentalist Aliddeki Brian contributed a Luganda verse alongside indigenous instruments. “I used Luganda and played the akogo [thumb piano] from Eastern Uganda and the traditional flute that cuts across Ugandan culture,” he explained. “You don’t need one dominant language for people to connect. The rhythm, emotion, and story travel.” For Aliddeki, the collaboration highlighted sustainable models for African creative industries: “Touring is not just about flying to perform. It’s about building relationships, sharing knowledge, and creating systems that let African work move across borders.” The "Kushanda" remix is currently being finalized at Playhouse Studios in Durban and is scheduled for release later this year. Kashe Ngoma Kushanda remix

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has urged parents and guardians to pay approved school fees and levies before schools reopen on Tuesday, September 8, saying timely payments are essential for the smooth running of schools. In a statement issued on September 3 ahead of the start of the third term, the Ministry said parents and guardians remain responsible for settling approved fees and levies. “The Ministry appeals to parents and guardians to pay approved school fees and levies on or before the opening of schools to ensure the smooth running of school operations and the provision of essential educational services,” the Ministry said. “The obligation to pay approved fees and levies remains with parents and guardians.” The Ministry said payments must comply with Zimbabwe’s fiscal and monetary laws and regulations. The appeal comes against the backdrop of growing arrears under the Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM), with Government recently revealing that outstanding payments have risen to more than US$292 million. Deputy Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Mercy Dinha told Parliament that BEAM arrears had accumulated since 2023 because of limited fiscal space. BEAM supports vulnerable children by covering approved education-related costs, including school fees and levies, at participating schools. Schools warned over uniforms and stationery The Ministry also reminded parents and guardians that they are free to purchase school uniforms and stationery from suppliers of their choice, provided the items meet the specifications set by individual schools. It warned school heads and responsible authorities against making it compulsory for parents to purchase uniforms and stationery directly from their schools. “Head of Schools and Responsible Authorities (whether Government or Non-Government) are therefore warned to abide by this directive and desist from making it mandatory for parents to purchase school uniforms and stationery exclusively at their schools,” the Ministry said. The directive applies to both Government and non-Government schools. The Ministry's position means schools can specify requirements for uniforms and learning materials, but parents should not be restricted to purchasing those items from the school itself. Third term begins September 8 The third term is one of the most important periods on Zimbabwe’s school calendar, particularly for learners sitting public examinations. Grade 7, Form 4 and Form 6 candidates will write their final public examinations during the term. The Ministry’s call for parents to settle fees comes as schools prepare for the new term and seek to maintain essential operations, while the Government continues to grapple with outstanding BEAM obligations. Parents and guardians have therefore been urged to meet their approved financial obligations before the opening of schools, while schools have been reminded to comply with regulations governing the purchase of uniforms and stationery. Zimbabwe school fees 2026

A Zimbabwean man based in Durban, South Africa, has taken his late girlfriend’s family before Chief Mutasa’s community court, demanding US$11,000 in compensation after they allegedly took back the son he had raised and educated for several years. Tonderai Nyambudzi told the court that he had spent years paying school fees and providing for the boy, believing he was securing his biological son’s future, only for the child to later be reclaimed by his maternal relatives on customary grounds. Nyambudzi said the dispute began when his girlfriend became pregnant while he was preparing to formalise their relationship through customary marriage. “While I was paying bride price, a spirit manifested through one of her relatives and declared that she was not supposed to get married,” Nyambudzi told the court. He said he was subsequently told that he could only take the child after the woman had given birth, forcing him to leave her at her family home during the pregnancy. The woman later died, leaving the child in the care of her relatives. Nyambudzi said that when he later sought custody of the boy, the family told him he had to pay ‘chiredzwa’, also known as ‘maredzwa’, before the child could be released to him. He said he paid R15,000, which was worth about US$800 at the time. The boy was then in Grade Four. After taking custody, Nyambudzi said he assumed responsibility for the child's education, upkeep and general welfare. However, he claims that years later the Machekanzombe family took the boy back, arguing that he did not belong to Nyambudzi but was connected to a family spirit. Nyambudzi told the court that the family’s position was based on a customary and spiritual claim involving an alleged historical killing within the Machekanzombe family. According to his account, the family claimed that the spirit of the deceased person had subsequently been symbolically married to the child's mother and that the boy therefore belonged to that spiritual lineage. The Machekanzombe family subsequently refunded the approximately US$800 Nyambudzi had paid as maredzwa. Nyambudzi, however, argued that the refund did not cover the money he had spent raising and educating the child over the years. He is now seeking US$11,000 in compensation. Family disputes his account The Machekanzombe family disputed Nyambudzi’s version of events. Family representative Danai Machekanzombe told the court that the dispute had already been dealt with by Chief Mutasa earlier this year. He said Nyambudzi appeared before the traditional court in February and told it that he no longer wanted to keep the child. “His position before this court was clear. He said he no longer wanted the child and that what he wanted was a refund of the money he had paid as ‘maredzwa’,” Machekanzombe said. He said the family sourced the money and refunded Nyambudzi in March. “We are therefore surprised that he has returned demanding US$11,000,” he said. Machekanzombe said the family then took the child back because they considered themselves responsible for his welfare. He rejected the compensation claim, arguing that Nyambudzi had voluntarily surrendered the child and had only sought reimbursement of the maredzwa payment. Chief Mutasa refers financial claim After hearing both sides, Chief Mutasa said Nyambudzi’s financial claim would first have to be properly verified. The traditional leader advised him to approach the Small Claims Court, where evidence of the money allegedly spent on the child's education and upkeep could be independently examined. Chief Mutasa also suggested that, depending on the outcome, the child could potentially contribute towards settling any amount that might ultimately be found to be due, given that he was the beneficiary of the education and support. The dispute highlights the complex intersection between customary practices, family responsibility and formal legal remedies when questions of child custody and financial claims arise. The US$11,000 claim has not been established by the court, and the competing accounts remain disputed. Zimbabwe man demands US$11,000 compensation

The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) has warned of strong winds across Zimbabwe from Friday evening through Monday, with thunderstorms, lightning and rain expected in some areas. In an advisory issued jointly with the Department of Civil Protection on Friday, September 4, the MSD said the unsettled conditions would persist from September 4 to 7. The warning covers all provinces, including Matabeleland South, Matabeleland North, Bulawayo Metropolitan, Midlands, Manicaland, Masvingo, Harare Metropolitan and the Mashonaland provinces. The weather shift is being driven by cool, moist south-easterly winds interacting with a mid-level atmospheric system, according to the MSD. “Beginning Friday, 04 September through Monday, 07 September 2026, weather conditions across Zimbabwe are expected to shift as cool, moist south-easterly winds interact with a mid-level atmospheric system,” the department said. Thunderstorms and rain expected Strong winds are expected to affect most parts of the country from Friday evening. The MSD said there is also a risk of lightning in Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South and Bulawayo Metropolitan. Matabeleland North and the Mashonaland provinces are expected to experience thunderstorms, lightning and rain on Friday and Saturday. Cloudy and cold conditions are expected on Saturday, with light rain or drizzle possible in areas including Chipinge, Chiredzi, Chimanimani and Nyanga. The department warned that strong winds could damage crops, uproot trees and plants, and damage structures, as well as affect rigging and sails. Farmers urged to protect crops and livestock Farmers have been warned that rainfall during the grain-filling and maturity stages can affect grain quality. High moisture levels can also increase the risk of fungal diseases, potentially affecting crops nearing harvest. The MSD advised farmers to use row covers or windbreaks where possible to protect crops from strong winds. Livestock should also be provided with adequate shelter, bedding and sufficient feed during the cold and windy conditions. Public urged to take precautions Households have been advised to inspect and repair rooftops, secure loose objects and trim branches that could fall during strong winds. The public has also been urged to avoid sailing during storms and postpone journeys where possible when conditions become hazardous. The MSD and Civil Protection authorities said members of the public, particularly farmers and vulnerable groups, should take precautions against strong winds and lightning. “Strong winds will affect most areas from Friday evening, with a risk of lightning in Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South, and Bulawayo Metropolitan,” the MSD said. The department urged residents to remain alert to further weather updates as the system moves across the country. Zimbabwe strong winds warning The MSD has warned of strong winds across Zimbabwe from Friday evening to Monday, with thunderstorms, lightning and rain expected in some areas.

Bulawayo deputy mayor Edwin Ndlovu and three fellow councillors accused of extortion have been granted US$500 bail each by the High Court. Ndlovu, who chairs the Bulawayo City Council’s business and stands allocation committees, was granted bail on Wednesday together with councillors Ntandoyenkosi Ndlovu, Mxolisi Mahlanga and Ashton Mhlanga. Justice Naison Chivhayo granted the four bail after a magistrate had earlier refused their applications. Former councillor Alderman Rodney Jele, who is jointly charged with the four councillors, remains in custody after his previous bail application was dismissed. The five are accused of soliciting a US$52,000 bribe from businessman Mthuli Thulani Matshazi, who secured a 59-year lease from the council in 2023 through his company, Mkhuze Global Investment, to develop a Hilton Hotel on land near the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair. According to the State, the councillors allegedly told Matshazi that no development had taken place on the property and that another investor had offered US$52,000 to have his lease terminated. The councillors allegedly told Matshazi that he could retain the lease if he matched the purported US$52,000 offer. Matshazi subsequently reported the matter to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), which launched an investigation. The State alleges that ZACC investigators then set a trap for Jele, who was arrested after allegedly accepting US$5,000 in marked banknotes as part payment of the purported bribe. The allegations have not been tested to finality, and the accused remain entitled to the presumption of innocence. The four councillors are represented by Sithole Law Chambers. The case comes amid continued scrutiny of local authority land allocation, leases and development deals, with corruption allegations in such processes often attracting the attention of anti-graft authorities. The latest High Court ruling means the four councillors will now face criminal proceedings while out on bail, while Jele remains in custody pending further developments in his bail application. Bulawayo councillors bail

By Simbarashe Namusi Editor's Note: This is the second and final article in a two-part series on living and working with a disability in Zimbabwe. I have been qualified for jobs I never got. Not because I failed the interviews. Not because I failed the tests. Sometimes I suspect I failed something that was never written on the assessment form, the visual test of whether I looked like the person they had imagined doing the job. About ten years ago, I attended an interview with a local not-for-profit organisation involved in community broadcasting. The verbal interview went well. Broadcasting was my profession, and I knew what I was talking about. Then came a typing test. I was handed a laptop and asked to demonstrate my typing speed. I use one hand to type. I explained this and asked whether I could have some additional time. The request was granted. But then I heard the murmurs. I heard the gasps. And I knew. Nothing about the test had established that I could not do the job. I had merely demonstrated that I performed one particular task differently from the other candidates. Yet the atmosphere in the room changed. Sometimes an accommodation does not convince people that you can do the job. It convinces them that you are a problem they will have to manage. The Unspoken Visual Assessment There was another interview, much earlier in my life. I attended interviews with a local parastatal. I passed the psychometric tests and proceeded to the final interview. When I entered the boardroom, I was asked whether I was the same person who had written the psychometric tests. I said yes. I watched faces fall. I passed the interview. I know because someone in Human Resources called me afterwards to apologise. I was told that they had settled for the other candidate because they "looked better." I had passed the tests. I had passed the interview. Somewhere between competence and appointment, appearance had become part of the qualification. Then came another experience, much more recently. A government parastatal called me and invited me for an interview. I accepted. During the conversation, I was asked whether I was a person with a disability. I answered honestly. The caller told me they had made a mistake calling me. That was it. The interview disappeared because I had confirmed something that was already visible. There was no test to fail. No interview to perform badly in. No opportunity to demonstrate what I could do. My disability had become disqualifying before my qualifications could enter the room. Disability Is Not Inability I am not asking an employer to pretend that my disability does not exist. I am asking them not to mistake disability for inability. Those are not the same question, and the difference matters. Inclusion does not mean lowering the standard. It means applying the standard fairly. A reasonable accommodation does not make a candidate less qualified. Extra time on a typing test does not erase competence. A ramp does not lower the standard for entering a building it removes a barrier. Too often, disabled people are expected to prove themselves twice: once through the work, and again through the exhausting task of persuading someone that their body will not be an inconvenience. The High Cost of Exclusion Eventually, something gives. For me, it was the decision to stop applying for jobs. Not because I stopped being qualified, but because I became tired of volunteering for rooms in which my body might be assessed before my abilities. Stopping does not feel like peace. It feels like a door closing on work I know I can still do. The cost of this is not measured only in how many disabled people are unemployed. It is measured in how many qualified people eventually stop applying: People who stop explaining why they need an accommodation. People who stop believing the next panel will see the person before it sees the disability. I do not want the bar lowered for me. I have spent too much of my life proving I can clear it. I simply want the bar to remain in place when I walk into the room. I am not asking to be hired because I am disabled. I am asking for my disability to stop being the reason I am not hired. Simbarashe Namusi is a media expert writing in his personal capacity. Disability discrimination in hiring

By Anna Miti HARARE — As the government prepares the 2027 National Budget, the media has been urged to keep domestic resource mobilisation for health in the spotlight, with advocates warning that Zimbabwe has a narrowing window to lock in its own financing before donor support shrinks further. The call was made at a media advocacy dialogue held in Harare this week by the Zimbabwe Civil Liberties and Drug Network (ZCLDN). Speaking at the dialogue, Mr Knowledge Mupembe, Programmes Manager at ZCLDN, said the global pool of HIV funding is shrinking, and with little or no cushion left over from previous funding cycles, it is now imperative for Zimbabwe to secure domestic financing for its HIV response before the 2027 Budget is finalised in late November. He noted that the Global Fund's Eighth Replenishment (GC8) fell roughly $5–6 billion short of its $18 billion target, raising just over $11 billion, and that Zimbabwe's own HIV allocation has already declined — from $437 million to $349 million between the Seventh and Eighth Replenishment cycles. Domestic resource mobilisation, he said, is not optional as access to 15% of the GC8 allocation is now conditional on Zimbabwe meeting its own domestic co-financing commitments. Mupembe pointed to mechanisms Zimbabwe already has in place. The AIDS Levy, a 3% tax on individual income and on corporate and trust profits, collected since 2000, raises an estimated $35–40 million a year for the National AIDS Council. A newer 3% mining levy, introduced under the 2024 Finance Act and designated by the Finance Ministry as a "Corporate Social Responsibility levy," is also now active, though how its proceeds are being used remains an open question. Other options on the table, he said, include a proposed levy on diaspora remittances and expanded public-private partnerships modelled on programmes in Botswana, South Africa and Lesotho. Mr Wilson Box, Executive Director of ZCLDN, said that while Zimbabwe has rolled out the new HIV prevention option Lenacapavir (LEN), there is a need to ensure that other key and vulnerable populations, such as people who use drugs, are not left behind. He added that domestic resource mobilisation, rather than continued dependence on donors, could be key to their inclusion. Zimbabwe began rolling out LEN earlier this year as part of efforts to expand HIV prevention options, with the initial programme targeting priority populations at substantial risk of HIV infection, including adolescent girls and young women, sex workers and pregnant women, among others. LEN is the first twice-yearly injectable PrEP product offering a highly effective, long-acting alternative to daily oral pills and other shorter-acting options. With just two doses a year, it is considered a transformative step forward in protecting people at risk of HIV, particularly those who face challenges with daily adherence, stigma, or access to healthcare. "Using our own resources in HIV prevention helps us to have our own frameworks and set our own priorities, not those set by donors," Box said. He added that people who use and inject drugs face multiple, overlapping vulnerabilities that place them at heightened risk of HIV infection, and that as the LEN programme expands, this population should be treated as a priority. The Zimbabwe National HIV and AIDS Strategic Plan already identifies people who use drugs as a key population, he noted, and LEN could be especially advantageous for them, since it removes the adherence challenges posed by daily oral pills. Zimbabwe's national budget has been tabled in late November for at least the past three years running. That gives advocates a window period of roughly four months between the government stating its budget priorities and those priorities being fixed into law. Within that cycle, two moments were flagged as points where civil society and the media have real access: the Budget Strategy Paper (BSP) consultation window, which sets out government priorities before they harden into the Budget Statement, and Parliament's Budget Office, a standing, non-date-bound body that provides independent technical analysis and monitors under Section 299 of the Constitution whether budgeted commitments are actually disbursed. Journalists at the dialogue were encouraged to use both entry points, and to track not just whether domestic financing commitments are made in the 2027 Budget Statement, but whether they are ultimately translated into disbursed funding reaching key and vulnerable populations. Domestic resource mobilization Zimbabwe health budget