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Zimbabwe’s government says it will introduce new legal measures targeting illegal mining and environmental destruction along rivers and water bodies as authorities intensify efforts to protect water supplies, dams, and agricultural production. The planned intervention includes three new statutory instruments aimed at strengthening enforcement against illegal alluvial mining, which officials say has caused widespread environmental degradation across the country. Speaking during a coordination meeting with Ministers of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Anxious Masuka said the new legal measures would reinforce existing mining restrictions already introduced under Statutory Instrument 188 of November 2024. “There is an interministerial Statutory Instrument 188 of November 2024 banning alluvial mining. We will now have three SIs to complement that. SI 188 is still in force. No alluvial mining is allowed,” Masuka said. Zimbabwe has in recent years experienced increasing environmental pressure from illegal gold mining operations along rivers and streams, particularly in mineral-rich provinces. Authorities say uncontrolled alluvial mining has damaged rivers, wetlands, irrigation infrastructure, and dams critical for both agriculture and domestic water supplies. Masuka said the government plans to deploy security agencies to enforce the mining ban through continuous surveillance of affected areas. “The security sector will be directed to conduct a 24-hour surveillance system so that there is no alluvial mining,” he said. The minister added that Emmerson Mnangagwa is expected to declare heavily degraded rivers a state of disaster within days. Such a declaration would allow authorities to introduce emergency environmental rehabilitation measures. The government also plans to invoke a “polluter pays” framework that will compel individuals or companies responsible for environmental destruction to finance rehabilitation projects. “We are invoking the polluter pays statutory instrument, which means that because rivers were degraded, they must be rehabilitated by those who caused damage,” Masuka said. Authorities have reportedly set a three-month target to rehabilitate affected rivers and dams, including Mazowe Dam. Environmental experts have repeatedly warned that unchecked illegal mining poses long-term threats to water quality, food security, and biodiversity. According to the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), illegal mining activities contribute heavily to siltation, river pollution, and the destruction of aquatic ecosystems in several parts of the country. Meanwhile, Vangelis Haritatos said the government is also prioritising the completion of the land reform process and the integration of land administration systems. “We need to do a stock take of the land reform so that we can declare land reform is done,” Haritatos said. The announcements come as farmers across Zimbabwe harvest summer crops and prepare for winter wheat production. Christopher Magomo said some areas in Mashonaland Central were recording maize yields of up to six tonnes per hectare, while soya bean yields averaged four tonnes. Authorities say protecting rivers and dams is critical to sustaining irrigation schemes and maintaining agricultural productivity amid climate and environmental pressures. illegal mining Zimbabwe

HARARE — The High Court has dismissed an urgent application by Ouro Tanque Private Limited that sought to gain immediate control of contested gold mining claims in Bindura while a Supreme Court appeal by Freda Rebecca Gold Mine is pending. The ruling, delivered on Thursday by Justice Siyabonga Paul Musithu, halts Ouro Tanque’s attempt to enforce a prior order that would have seen Freda Rebecca evicted from the disputed site. The legal battle stems from allegations made by Ouro Tanque that it was unlawfully dispossessed of five mining claims in February. The company accused Freda Rebecca of: Forced Removal: Allegedly using security personnel and members of the Zimbabwe Republic Police to block access. Encroachment: Fencing off the contested areas and deploying guards at the sites. In March, the High Court initially granted Ouro Tanque a spoliation order, a legal remedy designed to restore possession to a party unlawfully removed from property. This order instructed Freda Rebecca to remove the fencing and vacate the area. Freda Rebecca promptly appealed the spoliation order to the Supreme Court, arguing that the High Court’s original judgment was flawed because it failed to identify the exact boundaries, coordinates, or official beacons of the disputed claims. Justice Musithu agreed that the geographical location of the alleged dispossession remained a critical, unresolved factor. "The question of where exactly the alleged acts of spoliation occurred loomed large in the present matter," Justice Musithu noted. The judge pointed out that both companies appear to hold valid mining rights in the area, but in different locations. He suggested that oral evidence and official verification by mining authorities might be necessary to define the disputed boundaries. The court ultimately found that the "balance of convenience" did not favor Ouro Tanque. Justice Musithu ruled that Freda Rebecca’s Supreme Court appeal carried "prospects of success which cannot be ignored". As a result, Ouro Tanque’s application for leave to execute the judgment pending the appeal was dismissed, with both parties ordered to bear their own legal costs. Ouro Tanque vs Freda Rebecca gold mine dispute

Delta Corporation has denied allegations that a contaminated bottle of Coca-Cola containing suspected maggots originated from its production line, as a high-profile food safety case continues before the Harare Magistrates’ Court. The beverage manufacturer is facing scrutiny after a government laboratory reportedly confirmed that foreign particles discovered inside a Coca-Cola bottle were maggots. The matter is being heard under the provisions of Zimbabwe’s Public Health Act. The case, which has reignited debate around food safety standards and counterfeit beverages in Zimbabwe, was heard on Thursday before Magistrate Lisa Mutendereki. According to court papers, Harare resident Shepherd Mukonomera bought a 300ml Coca-Cola from a street vendor at 62 Mbuya Nehanda Street on 19 October 2023. The State alleges that after consuming most of the drink, Mukonomera noticed unusual foreign objects floating inside the bottle. “The complainant purchased a 300ml Coca-Cola soft drink… whilst drinking the soft drink after reaching about a quarter, he then saw some unknown foreign objects,” the State outline reportedly reads. Mukonomera immediately spat out the drink before the remaining contents were submitted for forensic examination. During proceedings, the complainant reportedly described the particles as worms. The prosecution told the court that the soft drink underwent laboratory testing. One visual inspection reportedly concluded that the foreign objects resembled maggots, while another scientific examination allegedly identified starch substances. However, Delta Beverages strongly challenged the findings and argued that the tests were inconclusive. In its defence outline, the company stated: “There is nothing on record to prove that the alleged contaminated product was produced at the 2nd Accused’s plant.” Delta argued that contamination could have occurred after the product left the factory due to storage conditions, tampering, or counterfeit beverage operations. The company said Zimbabwe’s growing counterfeit beverage market presents major risks to manufacturers and consumers alike. According to court submissions, Delta insisted its bottling systems are automated and sealed, making contamination during production “physically impossible.” “Collection, preparation and bottling of all Coca-Cola beverages occurs in a highly regulated, automated and sealed environment where it is physically impossible for foreign substances to enter the production line,” the company reportedly argued. Delta also questioned the chain of custody and handling procedures after the beverage entered the secondary market. The accused parties in the matter are vendor Violet Musandukwa and Delta Beverages, represented in court by lawyer Chenai Chawafambira. Musandukwa reportedly told investigators she was shocked after being confronted by the customer. “Upon checking the drink, I saw that there were white organisms at the bottom of the Coca-Cola bottle,” she said. Delta has requested that the court inspect its production facilities as part of its defence. The company maintains there is no conclusive proof linking the contaminated bottle directly to its manufacturing plant. The matter has been postponed to 18 May 2026 for continuation of trial proceedings. The case has sparked wider public discussion around counterfeit drinks, food safety regulations in Zimbabwe, and quality control standards in the beverage industry. Delta Beverages Zimbabwe

South Africa has strongly opposed Ghana’s decision to escalate concerns over alleged xenophobic attacks to the African Union, warning it could table a counter-agenda focused on governance failures and irregular migration across Africa. The diplomatic tension comes ahead of the AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting scheduled for June 24–27 in Cairo, where Ghana wants xenophobic violence against African nationals in South Africa formally debated. In a statement issued Friday, South Africa’s Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation criticised Ghana’s decision to take the matter to the African Union despite what Pretoria described as ongoing diplomatic engagement between the two countries. Ronald Lamola had reportedly held discussions with his Ghanaian counterpart following recent anti-migrant protests and unrest in several South African cities. Pretoria said law enforcement agencies were instructed to respond swiftly after confrontations targeting immigrants, including African nationals, erupted earlier this month. However, the South African government rejected social media claims alleging that Ghanaian and Nigerian nationals were killed during the violence. “There is no credible evidence to draw this conclusion at this stage,” the statement said, warning against “manipulated footage and divisive narratives including fake videos.” South Africa said that if the AU proceeds with Ghana’s proposal, Pretoria would seek to introduce its own discussion item focusing on the “push and pull factors of migration.” The proposed counter-agenda would reportedly include issues such as governance, democracy, rule of law, instability, and economic conditions in African countries that drive migration flows toward South Africa. The move is widely being interpreted as a direct response to criticism from African nations over recurring anti-immigrant tensions inside South Africa. Ghana’s request to the AU was reportedly made in a letter signed by Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa on May 6, 2026. Accra argued that xenophobic violence against fellow Africans violates the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and undermines continental unity. Invoking the legacy of Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana said Africa’s liberation and development depend on solidarity among African nations. The West African nation urged the AU to establish a fact-finding mission into the root causes of xenophobic violence in South Africa while strengthening monitoring systems and promoting reconciliation initiatives. South Africa has recently experienced renewed anti-migrant protests in cities including Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, and Cape Town. Protesters have demanded tighter border controls, mass deportations of undocumented migrants, and stricter enforcement against businesses employing illegal immigrants. Pretoria says the country hosts approximately three million migrants, with around 90 percent originating from elsewhere on the African continent. Authorities argue that unemployment, pressure on public services, and undocumented migration have contributed to growing tensions. Since April 2023, South Africa says it has deported approximately 500,000 undocumented migrants as part of intensified border enforcement measures. Cyril Ramaphosa previously addressed the issue during Freedom Day commemorations on April 26, urging South Africans not to forget the support the continent gave during the anti-apartheid struggle. “We did not walk alone into freedom,” Ramaphosa said. “It cannot be, and it must never be, that we trample into the dust the African fellowship that made our freedom possible.” Lamola echoed similar sentiments, saying migration challenges should be addressed through cooperation, lawful management, and continental solidarity rather than division. South Africa xenophobia

HARARE — Chief Justice Luke Malaba will preside over his final sitting at the Constitutional Court next Monday, marking the ceremonial conclusion of a judicial career spanning more than four decades. The special sitting, to be held at the Mashonganyika Building in Harare, will be attended by the country’s legal elite, including senior judges and government officials. Under the provisions of Section 186(1) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, Chief Justice Malaba will officially vacate his office at midnight on May 14, 2026. While the Constitution mandates retirement at age 70, Malaba utilized a controversial five-year extension that allowed him to remain the country’s most senior judicial officer until now. To honor his service, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has organized a series of farewell events, culminating in a formal dinner on his final day in office. Attendees will include representatives from the Executive and Legislature, highlighting the Chief Justice's central role in the state's tripartite structure. Malaba’s tenure since 2021 has been marked by intense legal and political friction. His stay in office was made possible by Constitutional Amendment No. 2, which granted the President power to extend the terms of superior court judges. The 2021 Crisis: When Malaba turned 70 on May 15, 2021, three High Court judges ruled that his extension was unconstitutional as it benefited a sitting judge. The Reversal: In September 2021, the Constitutional Court, the very bench he leads, overturned the High Court’s ruling, citing a lack of jurisdiction. Accusations of Capture: Opposition figures and legal practitioners frequently described the extension as "judicial capture," alleging that the Chief Justice remained too close to the Executive. Critics often pointed to Malaba’s handling of high-stakes political cases and the JSC’s disciplinary actions against judges who ruled against the state as evidence of a compromised judiciary. As the legal fraternity prepares for his departure, the focus now shifts to the appointment of a successor and whether the new Chief Justice can bridge the deep-seated divisions regarding judicial independence in Zimbabwe. Who do you believe are the frontrunners to succeed Luke Malaba as the next Chief Justice of Zimbabwe? Chief Justice Luke Malaba retirement

The Zimbabwe government says it is in the process of returning 67 farms seized during the country’s controversial fast-track land reform programme, in a move analysts say could reshape Zimbabwe’s international relations and debt relief efforts. The farms belong to nationals from Denmark, Switzerland, Germany, and the Netherlands, countries that had Bilateral Investment Protection and Promotion Agreements (BIPPAs) with Zimbabwe before the land seizures began. Speaking in the National Assembly, Agriculture Minister Anxious Masuka confirmed the process was underway. “We are in the process of returning those to them,” Masuka told legislators. The decision marks a significant development in Zimbabwe's land reform policy and comes as the government intensifies efforts to normalise relations with Western countries and international lenders. Zimbabwe’s fast-track land reform programme began in 2000 under former President Robert Mugabe, with the government arguing that land redistribution was necessary to correct colonial-era inequalities. Thousands of white-owned commercial farms were seized and redistributed to Black Zimbabweans. While supporters viewed the programme as a long-overdue correction of historical injustices, critics argue that chaotic implementation severely damaged Zimbabwe's commercial agriculture and investor confidence. The collapse in agricultural productivity contributed to widespread food shortages, economic decline, and the hyperinflation crisis that culminated in the collapse of the Zimbabwean currency in 2008. Since taking power in 2017, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has pursued re-engagement with Western governments and global financial institutions. Zimbabwe’s external debt reportedly stood at US$13.6 billion by September 2025, including US$7.7 billion in arrears. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and other lenders have repeatedly stressed that resolving land compensation disputes is critical to Zimbabwe's debt restructuring and economic recovery efforts. The IMF recently approved a Staff Monitored Programme designed to monitor reforms and rebuild economic confidence, although it does not provide direct funding. In 2020, the government signed a US$3.5 billion compensation agreement with about 4,000 former commercial farmers whose land had been acquired during land reform. However, Zimbabwe’s ongoing fiscal challenges have slowed payments. Economic analyst Persistence Gwanyanya said the return of farms protected under international agreements could improve Zimbabwe’s standing with investors. “This is not only about legal compliance. It is also about signalling policy predictability and rebuilding trust with international capital markets,” he said. The four European nations whose citizens are set to regain farms are influential players in Zimbabwe’s international engagement and debt relief discussions. Political analyst Dr. Charity Manyeruke said the decision reflects both legal obligations and economic necessity. “Zimbabwe is trying to demonstrate commitment to international law and investor protection as part of broader re-engagement efforts,” she said. While the move has been welcomed in some diplomatic and business circles, questions remain about how the policy shift may affect existing occupants and broader land reform debates. Government officials insist the process only affects farms covered under protected international agreements. Analysts say the development could become a key test of Zimbabwe’s willingness to pursue long-term economic reform, restore investor confidence, and end years of financial isolation. Zimbabwe land reform

Two Harare cellphone dealers have appeared in court facing allegations of running an illegal US$500,000 Hawala-style foreign currency operation linked to cellphone imports from Dubai without approval from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ). The accused, Blessing Chinhanga and Taurai Chivanga, appeared separately before Harare regional magistrate Jesse Kufa on charges linked to alleged exchange control violations and money laundering. Both men were granted bail of US$500 each. According to court submissions reported by The Herald, prosecutor Rufaro Chonzi told the court that detectives from the CID Asset Forfeiture Unit were conducting “Operation Iron Net” on 7 May 2026 when they allegedly received intelligence linking the two businessmen to unlawful foreign currency dealings. Investigators claim the pair facilitated offshore payments for clients importing mobile phones and accessories from Dubai using informal money transfer systems outside Zimbabwe’s regulated banking channels. A Hawala system is an informal money transfer method that operates outside traditional banking systems. Instead of funds physically moving between countries through banks, a customer gives money to a broker in one country, while another broker in a different country pays the recipient an equivalent amount. The system is commonly used globally for quick international transactions. However, Zimbabwean law requires foreign currency transactions and cross-border payments to be processed through authorised financial institutions regulated by the RBZ. Authorities allege the accused bypassed these official channels. Court papers allege that detectives first arrested Chinhanga at a shop in Zimpost Mall after investigations suggested he was facilitating illegal foreign currency payments. Police reportedly recovered US$4,000 in cash during the operation. The State alleges Chinhanga collected funds from clients intending to import mobile phones and accessories from Dubai before arranging offshore settlements through unauthorised channels. Authorities estimate the transactions linked to Chinhanga amount to approximately US$270,000. In a related case, detectives allegedly arrested Chivanga at Century Mall over accusations of conducting similar transactions. The court heard that police allegedly recovered US$31,950 in cash as well as multiple mobile phones during the raid. Prosecutors allege Chivanga also accepted payments from clients importing cellphones and accessories before arranging offshore payments outside approved banking systems. The State claims the transactions linked to Chivanga total around US$250,000. Authorities further allege that cash and goods valued at approximately US$53,000 were recovered during the investigation. The two accused are being represented by lawyer Owen Safuri. At the time of publication, neither suspect had entered a plea. The matters were remanded for routine court proceedings as investigations continue into the alleged illegal foreign currency and cellphone import operation. The case comes amid intensified scrutiny by Zimbabwean authorities over informal foreign currency trading networks, money laundering allegations, and unauthorised cross-border payment systems operating outside the country’s regulated banking framework. Harare cellphone dealers

KINSHASA – Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Felix Tshisekedi has signaled his openness to seeking a third term, a move that has sparked immediate backlash from opposition leaders who fear a return to the "personalized power" dynamics of the past. Speaking at a late-Wednesday press conference, Tshisekedi addressed growing calls from his political allies to overhaul the country’s 2006 charter. Under the current DRC constitution, presidents are strictly limited to two terms. Tshisekedi, who was re-elected for his second term in December 2023, maintained that while he has not explicitly requested an extension, he remains receptive to the public's will. “I have not asked for a third term, but if the people want a third term, I will accept,” Tshisekedi stated, adding that any such change would necessitate a constitutional revision approved via a national referendum. The President first introduced the idea of constitutional reform in late 2024, arguing the existing document was heavily influenced by foreign legal experts and no longer suited the nation's needs. Opposition figures were quick to condemn the remarks, drawing parallels to the political crisis under former President Joseph Kabila, who triggered deadly protests by delaying elections in 2016. Delly Sesanga, a former presidential candidate, warned on X (formerly Twitter) that the country cannot afford a "new cycle of institutional tensions". Critics argue that revising mandate limits represents a "slide" away from democratic principles. The Sacred Union coalition, led by permanent secretary Andre Mbata, has already invited various sectors—including civil society, religious groups, and labor unions—to submit proposals for constitutional changes. A technical commission is scheduled to begin reviewing these submissions after May 20. Adding to the political uncertainty, Tshisekedi warned that the ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC could potentially derail the next presidential vote scheduled for 2028. The AFC/M23 coalition, which Western governments and the UN allege is backed by Rwanda, continues to occupy significant territory. “If this war cannot be ended, unfortunately, we will not be able to organise elections in 2028,” Tshisekedi warned, emphasizing that the state cannot hold a valid vote while parts of its territory remain under rebel occupation. Felix Tshisekedi third term DRC

A major constitutional showdown is unfolding in South Africa after the Constitutional Court of South Africa ordered that an impeachment inquiry into President Cyril Ramaphosa must proceed over the controversial Phala Phala matter. The ruling, delivered on May 8, 2026, marking 30 years since the adoption of the country’s Constitution, has been widely described as a watershed moment for presidential accountability and constitutional law in South Africa. In a decision seen as a significant legal and political blow to Ramaphosa, the apex court found that Parliament failed to properly exercise its constitutional oversight role. The court ruled that existing impeachment procedures were inadequate and directed lawmakers to urgently initiate a formal impeachment inquiry. This effectively removes the discretion previously exercised by Parliament in deciding whether to establish such a process. Opposition parties, including the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the African Transformation Movement (ATM), have hailed the judgment as a victory for constitutional accountability. The court found that Parliament, dominated by the African National Congress (ANC), had failed to uphold constitutional obligations in its handling of the Phala Phala scandal. Legal analysts say the judgment signals a strong stance against what critics describe as “majoritarian shielding,” where ruling parties use their numbers to block accountability mechanisms. Political commentator Dr. Sipho Dlamini said the ruling reinforces judicial oversight. “The court has effectively stepped in where Parliament failed. It sends a clear message that constitutional accountability cannot be overridden by political majorities,” he said. The ruling has intensified pressure on President Ramaphosa, with analysts warning that an impeachment inquiry could have serious political consequences. Some experts believe the president could consider stepping down to avoid prolonged political damage. “This puts the presidency under enormous strain. Even if he survives politically, the process itself is damaging,” said governance expert Lindiwe Mahlangu. The decision also places strain on South Africa’s evolving political alliances, particularly within the Government of National Unity (GNU). Key partners, including the Democratic Alliance (DA), now face a difficult choice between supporting the president or backing the court’s directive on accountability. Analysts warn that the situation could reshape coalition dynamics and influence future governance stability. The judgment also drew attention to delays and perceived inaction by several institutions, including the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, the Public Protector, and the South African Revenue Service. Observers say the court’s intervention underscores the importance of institutional independence and efficiency in safeguarding democracy. Following the ruling, Parliament must now act swiftly to comply with the court’s directives. This includes revising impeachment procedures and establishing a committee to investigate the allegations linked to the Phala Phala scandal. Despite the ruling, the ANC has reiterated its support for Ramaphosa, maintaining confidence in his leadership. The court’s 7–4 majority decision is being viewed as a defining moment in South Africa’s constitutional history, reinforcing the judiciary’s role as the ultimate guardian of democratic accountability. As the impeachment process unfolds, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for the presidency, the ruling party, and the future of governance in South Africa. Ramaphosa impeachment

The Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA) leadership crisis has taken a dramatic turn after the High Court reinstated the Alexio Gwenzi-led board, weeks after the Government dissolved it over allegations of corruption, financial mismanagement, and governance failures. The ruling allows the board to resume duties while court proceedings continue, intensifying debate around Zimbabwe music royalties, governance, and transparency in the creative sector. The Government had dissolved the ZIMURA board in April 2026 following mounting complaints from musicians over low royalty payouts and alleged maladministration. At the time, acting director Henry Makombe indicated that the secretariat would continue operations pending the appointment of an interim administrator by the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs. However, the High Court has now reinstated Alexio Gwenzi, First Farai Batani, and Evelyn Natsai Moyo to lead the organisation until the matter is finalised. In a statement, ZIMURA confirmed: “The effect of this important Court result is that Alexio Gwenzi, First Farai Batani and Evelyn Natsai Moyo have been reinstated with immediate effect to continue to run the affairs of ZIMURA until the Court process is finalised.” The association said the leadership remains committed to improving Zimbabwe's music royalties collection and distribution systems. The dispute has been fuelled by growing frustration among artistes over what they describe as unfair royalty distribution. Music superstar Alick Macheso has been among the most vocal critics. “The chaos at Zimura exists for a reason. Musicians do not make noise without cause,” Macheso said earlier this year. Financial figures released by ZIMURA in September 2024 showed that about US$95,000 was distributed to more than 3,500 members, a figure many say reflects the broader challenges facing Zimbabwe’s music industry monetisation systems. Producer Charles Ayibeki highlighted the issue after reportedly receiving just US$5.60 in royalties for one of his songs. “After several follow-ups, they finally admitted there was a payout, but it was only US$5.60,” he said. The ZIMURA governance crisis has also been linked to internal disputes and past controversies, including a failed attempt to sell properties in Avondale, Harare, which drew backlash from stakeholders. The organisation was further shaken after former executive director Polisile Ncube-Chimhini stepped down following a fraud conviction in June 2025. Despite criticism, Batani has defended the system, arguing that payouts depend on airplay and usage. “It is unfortunate that some musicians demand more when their music is simply not being played,” he said. Analysts say the ZIMURA dispute highlights deeper structural issues within the Zimbabwe creative industry, including weak intellectual property enforcement, limited revenue streams, and a lack of transparency in royalty management. Creative economy expert Nyasha Madzima said the situation could undermine confidence in collective management organisations. “Artists need to trust that their work is being properly monetised. Without that trust, the entire system begins to collapse,” she said. Founded in 1982, ZIMURA plays a central role in collecting and distributing royalties for composers, authors, and publishers in Zimbabwe. With the High Court ruling now in effect, attention shifts to the outcome of the ongoing legal proceedings, which are expected to shape the future of music rights administration in the country. ZIMURA board reinstated

An 88-year-old woman from Kuzomuka Village under Chief Mupapa in Chikombedzi has died after her thatched hut caught fire in the early hours of 4 May 2026, in a tragic incident that has raised fresh concerns over fire safety in rural homes. The deceased, identified as Makanaka Kuzomuka, was reportedly sleeping alone in her bedroom hut when the blaze broke out at around 2:30 am. According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the elderly woman had been sleeping near an open fire, a common practice in many rural households during colder months. Masvingo Deputy Provincial Police Spokesperson Masauso Patinyu said the fire spread rapidly, engulfing the thatched structure within minutes. “Hakamela Makanani, who is her daughter-in-law, saw a flash of light through the window and rushed outside, but the hut was already on fire, and the roof had already collapsed in,” Patinyu said. Neighbours were alerted and rushed to assist, but the intensity of the flames made it impossible to save the victim or salvage property. The fire destroyed the hut completely, reducing it and its contents to ashes. Police officers who attended the scene found the body burnt beyond recognition. It was later transported to Chikombedzi Mission Hospital for a post-mortem examination. The incident highlights ongoing fire hazards associated with traditional thatched housing, particularly where open flames are used for heating or lighting. Fire safety expert Engineer Tinashe Moyo said thatched structures are highly flammable and can ignite within seconds. “Once a thatched roof catches fire, it spreads extremely fast. Combined with open flames indoors, the risk becomes very high, especially at night when occupants are asleep,” he said. Authorities have urged communities to exercise caution when using open fires indoors, particularly in enclosed or thatched structures. Assistant Inspector Patinyu warned that similar incidents can be avoided through safer practices. “We urge members of the public to avoid sleeping near open fires, especially in thatched houses, as this can easily lead to fatal incidents,” he said. Community leaders and safety advocates are increasingly calling for improved rural housing standards and awareness campaigns to reduce fire-related deaths. Suggestions include better ventilation, safer heating alternatives, and community education on fire prevention. As investigations continue, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by open flames in vulnerable housing structures. Chikombedzi hut fire

HARARE — A 34-year-old Harare man has taken legal action against Delta Beverages, claiming he discovered repulsive foreign objects in a 300ml bottle of Coca-Cola. The trial, which has drawn significant public interest, hinges on a bizarre dispute over whether the objects found were worms, maggots, or a harmless byproduct of the manufacturing process. The complainant, Shepherd Mukonomera, told the court that on October 19, 2023, he purchased the soft drink from a vendor, Violet Musandukwa, along Mbuya Nehanda Street in Harare. Mukonomera allegedly consumed about a quarter of the bottle before noticing "unknown objects" inside. During cross-examination, he graphically described spitting out what he believed to be worms after drinking the soda. He immediately filed a police report, which led to the arrest of both the vendor and Delta Beverages, represented in court by Chenai J. Chawafambira. The defense for Delta Beverages has challenged Mukonomera’s "worm" description, introducing conflicting forensic evidence. Delta’s legal team argued that a visual inspection conducted at a government laboratory initially identified the objects as maggots, not worms. However, a subsequent scientific test yielded a completely different result, identifying the particles as starch. Both Musandukwa and Delta Beverages are facing charges of contravening the Public Health Act. Harare Magistrate Lisa Mutendereki has postponed the case to May 18, 2026, for the continuation of the trial. The remaining contents of the bottle, which were sent to the forensic laboratory for examination, will remain a central piece of evidence as the court attempts to reconcile the conflicting test reports. The case highlights the ongoing scrutiny of quality control standards within Zimbabwe's food and beverage industry and the potential legal liabilities faced by major manufacturers under public health legislation. Delta Beverages Coca-Cola lawsuit