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Image - Psalm 116:7 I trust that you are taking time to eat well, drink responsibly, sleep and recuperate from life’s ever hectic schedule. I always say if our ancestors were to be given of glimpse of how fast and furious the world has become, they would die a second death. Our fore fathers had an idea of how God intended us to live. They preserved earth , lived mindfully, and only consumed what was enough for them. Frugality was their signature. Today we are so engrossed in amassing earthly treasures that we may never use, in the process , bleeding poor earth , harming ourselves and those around us. And we think rest is a huge loss. When God created heaven and earth , it took Him six days. He created man last and rested on the seventh day. Having done that, God commanded man to rest after labouring for six days. God pioneered rest as a vital aspect for better mental health, increased concentration and memory, a healthier immune system, reduced stress, a closer relationship with Him , improved mood and even a better metabolism!. The Book of Ecclesiastes reminds us of the “Vanity of vanities”, reaffirming that life is for living, enjoying, resting and eventually departing with nothing. Vanity can easily take over wisdom and even common sense. We are always reminded to remember that . Robin Sharma in his book ,”The Monk who sold his Ferrari” depicts an almost tragic awakening in the life of a lawyer who neglected to live life,choosing to drown himself in the pool of a successful legal career with abundant wealth , mansions, expensive cars and women. At the end, he realised the true meaning of life after collapsing in court due to exhaustion. It was then that he sold his precious possessions in in search for meaning, mindfulness and self awareness. Julian chose to re-align himself to spiritual purpose rather than materialism. Image: The Monk We have heard of so many unfortunate incidences where celebrities and prominent figures whose lives have been cut short in the midst of chasing fame and glory. Michael Jackson, who became a celebrity before the age of five, suffered perennial depression due to the pressures of his occupation. His end was tragic, may his dear soul continue to rest in eternal peace. A famous German jazz singer, Roger Cicero (45) died of a stroke caused by chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Tom Simpson, British cyclist, died during the 1967 Tour de France due to exhaustion/amphetamine use. Kanye West had to cancel a string of live shows during his St Pablo tour in 2016 due to exhaustion. Whitney Houston resorted to drug use and exhaustion saw her performing dismally on stage at several shows during her lifetime.She had a a tragic ending too. Rest is not wasteful, neither is it idle. Fortunately our bodies have a way of communicating when they need a break! It is good to listen to our bodies when they have had enough of us chasing vanity. The world has seen the emergence of religious groups that discourage materialism and promote spiritual dimensions. There are alway radical movements that have fleeced unsuspecting congregants of their hard earned wealth. Sufism is one religion with an inward,mystical, and spiritual dimension of Islam. It discourages worldly attachments, encouraging purification of heart to experience exceptional proximity with the Creator.Its said that a tourist once visited a Sufi ad was astonished to see that his home only had his mat and a kerosene lamp. When the tourist asked the Sufi where his furniture was, he also enquired the same. The tourist replied that he was only a visitor. The Sufi also responded,”So am l”. Image: A Sufi meditating. Rest comes in different forms and no one size fits all. There are several types of rest needed by each and every one of us. Forget the action movie stars and life style, no one is a super hero and rest you must! Mental Rest - Mental health has become a topical issue across ages and jurisdiction. Once dubbed as ‘madness’ or demonic as depicted in the biblical Legion,the world has woken up to the sanity that it’s a disease deserving proper health care. Its toll is witnessed in the proliferation of drug and substance abuse. Mental rest implies taking a break from thinking. Yes, thinking can be exhausting and breaks must be taken from this habit. Some meditate , do yoga or gentle exercises like tai chi or nature baths to rest the mind. Sensory Rest - Sensory rest requires us to unplug from screens and gadgets. We must enjoy some quiet time away from the lights, sounds, screens which often result in mental fatigue. The nervous system is critical to our overall health so sensory rest is mandatory. Emotional rest - our cognitive function, relationships and even resilience all depend on healthy emotional rest. Human nature is complex but difficult as it may, we must practice effective communication which comes with good emotional rest. If you have to take breaks from people do so. If you have to say No! Let it be! Setting boundaries means you can be emotionally at peace whilst maintaining good relationships with family and friends. BE true to your feelings and say No when you are tired. Social Rest - Have you ever realised that some buddies are inseparable. And there are some few who enjoy their own company.No matter the numbers, , birds of a feather will always flock together. Find your tribe and make memories . Social rest reaffirms authenticity. It entails taking a break to socialise with trusted friends or family unabated. Such associations help to unwind the brain, boosts mental health and replenishes your energy. So keep those connections healthy and consistent, it’s good therapy. Good therapy also entails maintaining a distance from the energy drainers. Spiritual Rest - Spiritual rest is not only divine but its what makes us tick. We try by all means to make our children understand spirituality and submit to God’s will. Did you hear the story of a mother who was trying to teach her children about the side effects of whiskey? She filled two glasses,one with water and the other with whiskey. She then threw live worms in each glass, and so died the one in the whiskey. Feeling excited that she had made her point, the mum asked the children what lessons they drew from the experiment. The girl responded,”If l drink whiskey, I wont get worms!”. The mum immediately took a much needed spiritual break !! The Spiritual journey itself is a a complex experience which every individual assimilates differently. The monk who ended up selling his Ferrari set on a journey to find clarity and purpose life. He only found that deep in the Himalayan mountains, where he absorbed the rich wisdom passed down from one generation to another amongst the sages of Sivana. This type of rest requires us to deliberately create serene environments to ensure that we enjoy that time alone with God . When God spoke to the prophet Elijah, He did so in a gentle whisper opposed to the wind , earthquake or fire. Spiritual lessons drawn from this masterpiece entail pursuing our successes without attachment. Take time to enjoy the simple things in life and alway remember to connect spiritually to rediscover and restore your mind , body and soul. Embrace the present and aspire to live in the moment. Be grounded and be spiritually well. Physical Rest - The above types of rest all point to rest in the physical sense. To rest physically is to put a stop to activities that drain our strength. It helps to restore our energy and body’s functionality. Physical rest may be effective through extended hours of sleep and minimising movements that starve the body of the much needed rest. Jesus had a very healthy routine where he would go into deep sleep even during the day. So flexible was his system that when he needed to keep watch and pray at midnight, he did it better than the disciples. We read about his disciples becoming frantic during a terrible storm whilst the master took a nap. And as he awoke to the chaos, he responded with amazing calmness , commanding the storm to be still. That was it ! How can we introduce effective rest and relaxation tips ? As illustrated above, if left untreated, long-term stress can cause irreversible health complications. These include headaches, digestive issues, anxiety, depression, chest pain , changes in sexual desire and diminished cognitive functioning to focus. There are quite a number of advantages to daily rest and relaxation: • reduced stress and anxiety • improved mood • decreased blood pressure • chronic pain relief • improved immune health • stronger cardiovascular system It’s our duty to ensure that we identify resting techniques that best suit our lifestyles. For me, gardening brings great pleasure. I keep seeds for replanting. Others rest through meditating, practicing yoga, walking outside, listening to music, reading a book, taking a bath or any combination of these and more!. When planning out your daily routine, find a consistent time to rest. For example, you could Taking a relaxing lavender bath before bed calms the body, mind and soul. Try to practice meditation each morning. You tube has many videos on this. Short walks during your lunch break at work also boost your health and promote good digestion. For goodness sake , do take a mandatory technology break once a week. Go offline and get into nature, talk to neighbours or simply catch a nap. For the workplace, employee focus and cognitive functioning depends on the working environment. I recall visiting Google Headquarters in New York where we toured the office facilities. Image: Google offices New York Google’s comprehensive employee wellness program, designed to boost productivity and employee satisfaction, focuses on physical, mental, and emotional health through on-site amenities and benefits. Key offerings include on-site fitness centers, nutritious meals, mental health support (e.g., therapists, meditation), and generous, flexible work arrangements. The employees can rest whenever needed to boost productivity. Rest is not quitting. Rest is not laziness. It’s a Godly command for all creation to revive, reboot and rejuvenate. It is my desire that this year will be different from others as you deliberately take steps to become a better you. Happy resting! Disclaimer This article intends to share with readers research backed types and advantages of rest. The information shared is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Dr Precious Sibiya , is a certified Wellness Practitioner, stroke survivor and advocate for natural healing and lifestyle. Contact her for more Wellness insights on Email : precioussibiya2014@gmail.com +263775369467

Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition has dissolved its organisational structure after 25 years, citing shrinking civic space, repressive laws and a collapse in donor funding ( image source ) The Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiZC) has resolved to dissolve its current organisational structure with immediate effect following its 16th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 21 January 2026, citing intensifying political repression, restrictive laws and acute funding constraints. The AGM, attended by roughly three-quarters of CiZC’s membership and convened under its 2014 constitution, concluded that the coalition’s existing operating model is no longer tenable amid what it described as a sustained assault on democratic freedoms and civic space. CiZC framed the decision as a strategic repositioning rather than a retreat, aimed at preserving pro-democracy activism under increasingly hostile conditions. In a post-AGM statement, CiZC listed several grievances, including the enactment and enforcement of repressive legislation such as the Private Voluntary Organisations (PVO) Act, the weaponisation of the law against civil society, and the shrinking space for peaceful assembly and dissent. The coalition also criticised Statutory Instrument 156 of 2023, which removed parliamentary oversight of the Mutapa Investment Fund, describing it as symptomatic of elite capture and a driver of public-resource looting. CiZC warned that these developments have deepened socio-economic decline and eroded post-independence gains in rights and public services. ( image source ) Funding pressures were central to the AGM’s deliberations. Delegates cited donor retrenchment and the curtailment of external support for pro-democracy actors, which have left many civic groups financially exposed. CiZC pointed to the collapse of key funding streams as having constrained advocacy, legal defence and community outreach, necessitating a rethink of organisational form and tactics. The coalition said it would explore alternative, less vulnerable modes of civic engagement while safeguarding activists and networks. Reflecting on its 25-year history, CiZC highlighted its role in major national civic campaigns, including the Save Zimbabwe movement and advocacy that contributed to the 2008–2009 Government of National Unity. It acknowledged, however, that prolonged operation under restrictive conditions has taken a heavy toll on membership, morale and capacity. The AGM emphasised that dissolving the formal structure should not be interpreted as surrender, but as a tactical shift to protect individuals and preserve the struggle for constitutionalism and accountability. The coalition’s statement also cited social indicators it says reflect governance failure, including rising poverty levels, collapsing public services, school dropouts and deterioration of the health system. CiZC urged citizens and remaining civic actors to continue defending constitutional rights and called on regional and international partners to push for reforms that restore civic space. How the coalition’s networks will reconstitute themselves — whether as looser alliances, issue-based platforms or discreet advocacy cells — remains uncertain.

Five men were shot dead outside a Jeffsville tuck shop in Pretoria, with three confirmed as Zimbabwean brothers, as police investigate the motive behind the daylight attack ( image source ) A daylight shooting outside a tuck shop in Jeffsville, Atteridgeville, Pretoria, left five men dead, three of whom have been identified as Zimbabwean brothers Shein Moyo, Shelton Moyo and Mike Nkala. Gauteng police said the attack occurred at about 13:15 when an unknown number of assailants approached the victims and opened fire before fleeing the scene; paramedics declared all five dead at the scene. Family members described shock and grief as they struggled to come to terms with the sudden loss. The victims were characterised by relatives as hardworking and not involved in criminality. The family faces immediate financial strain to repatriate the bodies to Zimbabwe for burial, with estimated costs of around R20,000 per body, according to relatives. Eyewitnesses reported chaotic scenes as customers and the tuck-shop owner fled in panic. Police have launched an intensive investigation, canvassing the area for CCTV footage, cellphone recordings and eyewitness testimony. Gauteng police spokespersons confirmed deployment of resources and appealed for witnesses to come forward. Early reporting suggests investigators are exploring motives that include gang-related extortion or targeted attacks, but no arrests had been announced at the time of initial reports. ( image source ) Community leaders and residents expressed heightened fear, noting a recent spike in violent incidents in parts of Tshwane. Authorities urged anyone with credible information to contact local SAPS stations to assist with the probe. For families of victims, immediate needs include logistical and consular support for repatriation and counselling services; civil-society groups and community fundraisers often step in to help cover costs in such cases. As investigations continue, police updates on arrests, ballistic analysis and motive will be critical to restoring community confidence. Meanwhile, the tragedy underscores the human cost of violent crime and the urgent need for strengthened community policing and witness protection to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

Rusape businessman and Staunch Hardware owner Morris Majiri died from internal injuries after a vehicle accident at his home, leaving his family without a breadwinner ( image source ) A Rusape family has been left bereaved after Morris Majiri, owner of Staunch Hardware, died from internal injuries sustained when his Nissan Caravan lurched and trapped him against a water-meter slab at his Crocodile suburb home. According to family sources, the incident began when Majiri’s vehicle became stuck in a ditch. He exited the vehicle to inspect it and was crushed between the bumper and a concrete slab when the vehicle suddenly lurched forward. Neighbours and a tenant, identified as Isaac Kudzanai, reversed the vehicle and rushed Majiri to Rusape General Hospital, where he was treated and discharged. Five days later, his condition deteriorated due to internal bleeding, and he died at home on 16 January before he could be readmitted. An autopsy reportedly revealed severe internal trauma, including a damaged kidney and a ruptured lung. The family laid Majiri to rest at Silverbow Cemetery in Rusape. Local safety experts stress the importance of basic vehicle safety practices, including engaging the handbrake, placing the transmission in park and using wheel chocks on slopes to prevent run-over and crush injuries when vehicles are stationary or being inspected. The case underscores two recurring concerns: the vulnerability of individuals working alone on vehicles and the need for rapid emergency response and monitoring after discharge for internal injuries, which can present delayed, life-threatening complications. Medical practitioners advise that anyone involved in crush incidents be observed for at least 24–48 hours and receive follow-up imaging to detect internal bleeding. Police comment was not available at the time of reporting. The family has appealed for privacy as they mourn and for greater community awareness on vehicle-safety precautions to prevent similar tragedies.

ZRP has warned businesses after a Macheke cash-in-transit robbery involving USD 12,002, urging firms to stop sharing cash-movement details online and strengthen security protocols ( image source ) The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has issued a stern warning to companies and individuals after a robbery at a Macheke service station in which USD 12,002, a Toyota Aqua (reg. AFP 4750) and four cell phones were stolen. Preliminary investigations indicate the theft followed the online sharing of cash-movement details by a service-station manager who posted information about collections from Murambinda, Nyazura and Macheke while travelling to Harare for banking. The vehicle was later recovered abandoned near the 74-kilometre peg on the Harare–Mutare Road. Police emphasised that posting operational cash-movement details on unsecured WhatsApp groups or social media exposes businesses to targeted criminality. The ZRP urged commercial operators to adopt stricter internal controls, including limiting digital circulation of cash schedules, using professional cash-in-transit services, and enforcing dual sign-offs for cash handling. Authorities warned that negligence in operational security can have serious consequences for staff and customers. ( image source ) Security experts say the intelligence value of routine social posts is often underestimated: criminals monitor patterns and exploit predictable routes and timings. Practical measures recommended by law-enforcement and security consultants include staggered deposits, encrypted communications for essential coordination, visible security escorts, and CCTV coverage of collection points. Businesses are also advised to train staff on the risks of sharing sensitive information and to maintain a documented chain of custody for cash. The incident highlights broader vulnerabilities in retail and fuel-retail sectors, where cash remains a high-value target. Observers note that while digital payments reduce cash exposure, many rural and peri-urban outlets still rely on cash collections, making robust operational security essential. The ZRP’s public advisory aims to reduce repeat incidents by raising awareness and prompting immediate changes to cash-handling protocols. Businesses seeking to reduce risk should conduct rapid security audits, engage licensed cash-in-transit providers, and restrict operational details to a minimal number of trusted personnel. The ZRP has appealed to the public to report suspicious activity and to cooperate with investigations to bring perpetrators to justice.

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe is accelerating its AI-driven digital transformation, using autonomous networks and AI-powered services to boost performance, growth and customer experience ( image source ) Econet Wireless Zimbabwe (EWZ), the country’s largest mobile network operator, has unveiled ambitious plans to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) as a core pillar of its digital transformation strategy, aiming to boost operational efficiency, network resilience and customer experience. In its trading update for the third quarter ended November 30, 2025, EWZ said AI has become a critical enabler across its operations, particularly in network management and security. The company noted that it is moving towards an autonomous network model capable of self-configuration, self-optimisation, self-healing and self-learning through AI and machine learning technologies. These capabilities are designed to prevent and mitigate service disruptions, reduce downtime and improve overall network performance. As part of its customer-facing innovation, Econet reported continued enhancements to its YamuraiAI chatbot, which provides end-to-end virtual customer support. Launched in 2023, the chatbot has become an increasingly important engagement tool, offering real-time assistance, product information and faster resolution of customer queries. Analysts say this mirrors global telecom trends, where AI is being deployed to manage increasingly complex networks and deliver more personalised digital services. ( image source ) The group’s financial performance during the period reflected strong momentum in its digital platforms. EcoCash, Econet’s flagship mobile money service, recorded a 28 percent increase in customer activity, while transaction volumes grew by 36 percent year-on-year. Wallet funding rose sharply by 91 percent compared to the same period last year, and the platform’s overall footprint expanded by 88 percent, underscoring its central role in driving financial inclusion and digital payments in Zimbabwe. Growth was also evident across the insurance segment. Individual life insurance policies increased by 10 percent, short-term insurance policy holders surged by 81 percent, and medical aid membership rose by 9 percent. EWZ attributed this performance to sustained infrastructure investment, customer-focused initiatives and the expansion of mobile financial services and wallet-based products. Industry observers note that Econet’s AI strategy aligns with broader trends across African telecoms, where operators are increasingly turning to advanced analytics and automation to cut costs and improve service delivery. GSMA Intelligence projects significant growth in AI adoption across the continent’s telecom sector by 2030, driven by rising data demand and expanding digital ecosystems. Looking ahead, Econet said it will continue to prioritise technology-led innovation, with AI remaining central to its long-term growth strategy. The company reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing investment in network infrastructure and AI-powered solutions to deliver sustainable growth and enhanced value for customers.

Zimbabwe’s former white commercial farmers have hired US lobbying firm Mercury Public Affairs to press Washington for support on a delayed US$3.5bn land reform compensation deal ( image source ) A group of former white commercial farmers in Zimbabwe has hired Washington-based lobbying firm Mercury Public Affairs to seek US political support for long-delayed compensation linked to the country’s land reform programme. According to a filing under the US Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), Mercury Public Affairs agreed to represent the farmers’ compensation claims on a pro bono basis. The move signals a calculated effort to leverage the firm’s strong Republican and Trump-era connections, including partner Bryan Lanza, a former senior adviser to Donald Trump’s presidential campaign. The lobbying request, dated December 2, was submitted by Dror Besserglik of Johannesburg-based OB Projects Management. It asks Mercury to engage officials within the current US administration as well as members of Congress to support payment to Zimbabwean farmers affected by farm expropriations. At the centre of the dispute is a 2020 agreement in which the Zimbabwean government committed to pay US$3.5 billion to compensate former farm owners for improvements made on expropriated land, excluding the land itself. Progress has been slow: Treasury allocated just US$10 million in the 2026 national budget to cover compensation claims for approximately 740 farmers. ( image source ) Mercury’s involvement is complicated by its previous relationship with the Zimbabwean government. Between 2019 and 2021, the firm represented Harare in Washington as it sought the easing of long-standing US sanctions, receiving a monthly retainer. The shift from lobbying for the state to representing private claimants highlights the evolving and often overlapping interests surrounding Zimbabwe’s re-engagement efforts. The current campaign also aligns with growing partisan debate in the United States around the treatment of white farmers in southern Africa. Several Republican lawmakers have promoted measures tying international financial support for Zimbabwe to the settlement of compensation claims. In September, US Representative Brian Mast introduced legislation aimed at blocking Zimbabwe’s access to new IMF and World Bank funding until compensation obligations are met. The initiative is reportedly backed by the Property and Farm Compensation Association (Profca) and other regional farming bodies. However, the Commercial Farmers Union (CFU) has publicly distanced itself, stating that its name was included in filings in error and that it was neither consulted nor formally involved. By taking the compensation dispute to Washington, the farmers have internationalised an issue that remains central to Zimbabwe’s debt resolution and re-engagement agenda. Increased US political pressure could accelerate negotiations over compensation payments, but it also risks complicating Harare’s diplomatic posture and relations with multilateral lenders, depending on how the government and regional stakeholders respond.

Zimbabwe’s hustle culture fuels survival, not sustainability ( image source ) It is a fact that the hustle culture has proliferated in Zimbabwe post 2000 economic tectonic shifts. The term "hustler" is often used to describe individuals who embody resilience, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit. Hustling tends to emphasize more on ‘making hay whilst the sun shines’.  It doesn’t focus on building sustainable ventures thereafter. There's a fine line between being a hustler and becoming a Nestler- someone who builds lasting legacies after the hustle. Let's explore how hustlers can transform into Nestlers, fostering sustainable legacies that transcend generations. Hustlers are known for their tenacity and ability to thrive in challenging environments. They're often driven by a survival mentality, focused on short-term gains, and willing to take risks to achieve their goals. While this mindset is essential for initial success, it can be limiting when it comes to building sustainable legacies that outlive the founding visionaries. The writer strongly believes that it is possible to tame and transform “hustlepreneurship” instincts into value adding and value sustaining “nestlepreneurship”, which is structured and systematic wealth creation. Nestlers, on the other hand, are visionaries who prioritize long-term impact over short-term gains. They focus on creating value, investing in people, and building systems that outlast them. Nestlers are characterized by their strategic thinking. They plan and focus on the future, anticipating challenges and opportunities. They put emphasis on legacy, prioritizing building lasting impact, rather than seeking instant gratification. They invest in people, nurturing talent, mentoring others, and create a supportive community. In short, nestlers value sustainability, prioritizing environmental and social responsibility, ensuring their success doesn't come at the expense of future generations. How to Transform Hustlers into Nestlers Here are key strategies: Shift your hustler focus by moving from short-term gains to long-term impact. Ask yourself, "What's the legacy I want to leave behind?" Develop strategic thinking. Invest time in planning, forecasting, and scenario-building. Invest in people. Mentor, coach, and empower others to build a strong team. Prioritize sustainability. Integrate environmental and social responsibility into your business model. Build solid nests and systems, not just businesses. Create processes and structures that can thrive without you or long after you are gone. The table below summarizes what happens if the hustle is not transformed into a nestle. Hustling alone is short term and if not augmented with serious nestling initiatives for sustainability. The table looks at once-upon-a-time promising indigenous bus companies in Zimbabwe, which rose to prominence, but faced significant challenges with a number of them falling into the abyss of oblivion.  Analyze the table and figure out why the trend is the way it is. In the next article I will give a detailed analysis of the scenarios. Table 1: Indigenous Bus Companies that experienced Succession and Sustainability Challenges in post-Independence Zimbabwe Name of company Owner/founder Year of death of founder No. of buses at the time of death No. of buses after one year No. of buses after two years No. of buses in 2009 Manica Bus Services Mr. Movern Mahachi 2001 12 10 8 1 Matemba Bus Services Mr. Matemba 2000 9 8 6 2 Mushandira (Samaz) Mr. Solomon Tavengwa 2004 10 7 4 1 Masamvu Bus Services Mr. Masamvu 1998 6 5 5 2 Mwoyomuchena Bus Services Mr. Mabodza 1995 16 16 13 0 Shoe Shine Mr. P Hall 1988 62 60 55 0 Source: Ministry of Transport cited in Gunduza & Fungurani (2011) Business Ethics and Corporate Governance in Zimbabwe The journey from hustler to Nestler is transformative, requiring a shift in mindset and approach. By embracing strategic thinking, investing in people, and prioritizing sustainability, Zimbabwean entrepreneurs can build lasting legacies. Let's celebrate the hustlers and support their transformation into Nestlers, fostering a brighter future for generations to come. Professor Mufaro Gunduza coaches and mentors Business Intelligence at Mount Carmel Institute (Harare), Indian School of Management, (New Mumbai), and UNISA. He is the SADC Investments Advisor to Dr. Farzam Kamalabadi, Founder of Future Trends Group and Special Presidential Envoy on Business and International Relations, Government of Botswana. He has written several books, including Unleashing Blue Sky Thinking , Spotting Business Opportunities, and Big Picture Thinking  (Bookboon Publishers, London & Denmark). He has just assumed the Presidency of the Southern African Chamber of Commerce. He can be contacted on WhatsApp: +263774868896 Phone: +263718925350 Email: mgunduza@yahoo.co.uk

Harare City Council faces legal challenge over planned demolition of a Vainona double-storey building, raising questions on administrative error, homeowner rights, and constitutional protections ( image source ) Harare City Council’s plan to demolish a double-storey building in Vainona, despite prior approvals, has sparked a legal dispute that highlights constitutional protections against arbitrary demolitions and administrative errors. The case centres on a building at Alpes and Grant roads, which council inspectors flagged for encroaching on road frontage. Mayor Jacob Mafume insists the structure must be removed, citing safety and regulatory compliance concerns, while the owner, Allen Shonhiwa, points to council-stamped approvals and has launched litigation challenging the demolition. The legal issue revolves around whether prior approvals shield the council from liability or whether administrative errors can be corrected without compensating the property owner. ( image source ) Zimbabwe’s Constitutional Court has reinforced homeowners’ rights in similar cases, ruling that demolitions without proper judicial oversight can be unconstitutional. Authorities must follow due process, respect the constitutional rights to housing and dignity, and obtain court orders where necessary. These precedents strengthen the likelihood of successful legal challenges for property owners. Two legal pathways are emerging. The council may argue that the building violates statutory setbacks and that approvals were issued in error, while the owner may invoke legitimate expectation and administrative law protections for those acting in good faith based on official permits. Courts typically scrutinize inspection records, approval procedures, and whether residents’ rights were considered before authorizing demolition. ( image source ) Potential remedies include injunctions to halt demolition pending a hearing, declaratory relief, and compensation if the council is found to have acted unlawfully. Experts note that councils should improve inspection protocols, thoroughly document decisions, and maintain transparent communication to prevent litigation and reputational harm. Mayor Mafume maintains that the building will be demolished, while Acting Director of Urban Planning Samuel Nyabezi acknowledged prior inspection failures. The owner awaits formal council notification as the matter proceeds through the courts.

South Gauteng High Court blocks relocation of three children to Zimbabwe, ruling the move is not in their best interests following their father’s death ( image source ) The South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg has refused an urgent application to relocate three minor children to Zimbabwe following the suicide of their father, ruling that the move would not be in the children’s best interests at this stage. The case involved a Zimbabwean mother, identified as FM, and her former sister-in-law, LB, who has been caring for the children since their father’s death in November 2025. FM sought permission to relocate her children, aged 12, 9 and 5, to Zimbabwe before resuming her employment in Ireland. She argued that the move would provide temporary stability while she pursued legal avenues to reunite with them abroad. Judge Stuart Wilson found that FM did not intend to live with the children in Zimbabwe, but instead planned to leave them in the care of relatives while she returned overseas. He ruled that the children had no meaningful connection to Zimbabwe, having been born, raised and educated entirely in South Africa. The case arose from tragic circumstances. In November 2025, the children’s father, TC, died by suicide in an incident witnessed by the children. One child sustained burn injuries while attempting to help him. Following the incident, the children went to live with their aunt, LB. Judge Wilson was sharply critical of LB’s conduct, finding that she had deliberately prevented FM from seeing or speaking to her children and had encouraged them to blame their mother for their father’s death. He rejected claims that the children themselves had refused contact, describing LB’s stance as shaped by grief and anger. After personally interviewing the children, the judge found that they wished to live with their mother and had not been alienated from her despite the trauma they had endured. However, he ruled that relocating them to Zimbabwe would separate them from both parents and place them in an unfamiliar country without their mother’s presence. On balance, the court held that it was safer and more stable for the children to remain in South Africa under LB’s care for now. The relocation application was therefore refused. However, the court granted FM full unsupervised contact with her children and issued a strict order prohibiting LB from interfering with or undermining their relationship. LB was also barred from removing the children from their school or residence without court approval. The family advocate has been directed to investigate longer-term options, including the possibility of the children relocating to Ireland, Zimbabwe or another country to live with FM. The matter will remain under Judge Wilson’s supervision pending further court orders.

Botswana imposes an immediate ban on cloven-hoofed animal imports from Zimbabwe after suspected foot-and-mouth disease cases in Mangwe district ( image source ) Botswana has imposed an immediate ban on the importation of cloven-hoofed animals and related products from Zimbabwe following reports of a foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak in Mangwe district. Authorities have also ordered strict livestock movement controls in affected zones and urged border communities to strengthen surveillance and cordon measures. Botswana’s Acting Director of Veterinary Services, Kobedi Segale, said the prohibition follows suspected FMD cases in Mangwe, a district that borders Botswana’s Tutume, North-East and Bobirwa districts. Movement restrictions have been enforced in zones 3b, 3c (Maitengwe), 6b and 7, with livestock from these areas barred from export or slaughter for export, except for direct slaughter under strict veterinary controls. Farmers and traders operating along the Zimbabwe–Botswana frontier have been instructed to halt cross-border movement and trade of cattle, sheep, goats and other cloven-hoofed animals from the affected zones. Authorities warned that illegal movement of livestock, raw meat or unprocessed milk would attract enforcement action. Communities in border areas have been called upon to assist with disease control by maintaining cordon fences, kraaling animals at night, and ensuring livestock are properly branded and tagged to support traceability. Farmers have also been urged to immediately report clinical signs such as lameness, excessive salivation, and lesions on the mouth or hooves. ( image source ) Foot-and-mouth disease is highly contagious among cloven-hoofed animals and poses a serious threat to livestock productivity, rural livelihoods and regional trade. While mortality rates are often low, outbreaks typically result in prolonged trade bans, movement restrictions and costly control measures, including vaccination campaigns and extended surveillance. Veterinary authorities have advised farmers to tighten kraaling practices, restrict communal grazing, reinforce border fences and avoid moving animals to markets or dip tanks until affected zones are declared clear. Officials stressed that early reporting, traceability and cooperation between farmers, communities and veterinary services are critical to containing the outbreak. The ban highlights the vulnerability of cross-border livestock trade to animal health shocks, with precautionary measures often remaining in place until surveillance confirms that outbreaks have been fully contained. Producers and traders have been advised to prepare for short-term market disruptions and to seek guidance from veterinary authorities on movement permits, vaccination policy and possible compensation mechanisms.

Many Zimbabwean businesses collapse not from weakness but from rapid growth that exposes weak systems, poor cash control and founder dependency at scale ( image source ) There is a familiar kind of business collapse that leaves markets puzzled. The shop was busy. Orders were flowing. Staff numbers had grown. The brand was visible. Then, almost overnight, the doors closed. Salaries went unpaid. Suppliers complained. Customers moved on. The question is always the same: How did this happen when the business seemed to be doing so well? The uncomfortable truth is that many Zimbabwean businesses do not fail because they were weak. They fail because growth exposes weaknesses that survival mode had long concealed. In Zimbabwe’s business environment, survival is celebrated. Hustle is praised. Being busy is often mistaken for being healthy. Yet growth is not a reward for endurance; it is a stress test. And not every business is built to survive its own expansion. The Illusion of the Peak What is often described as a business “peak” is usually the point at which demand has outpaced structure. Customers increase, but systems remain informal. Revenue grows, but controls do not. Staff numbers rise, but leadership capacity stays the same. The founder becomes more central to daily operations, not less. From the outside, the business looks vibrant. Inside, it is stretched thin. In recent years, several Zimbabwean retail, logistics, and service businesses that expanded rapidly between 2021 and 2023 followed this pattern. New branches opened, social media visibility increased, and turnover appeared impressive. Yet beneath the surface, cash controls were weak, decision-making was centralised, and systems had not evolved beyond start-up logic. Warning signs were ignored because the numbers looked good. Chaos was normalised as “pressure.” Exhaustion was rebranded as commitment. In such conditions, busyness became dangerously misleading. Growth Is Pressure, Not Comfort Every phase of growth introduces new risks. More clients bring complexity. More transactions increase exposure. More staff demand stronger leadership, communication, and accountability. Growth requires better systems, not simply harder work. Many businesses collapse at their apparent peak because they attempt to manage increased complexity using the same informal practices that helped them survive at a smaller scale. What worked when the owner handled everything no longer works when decisions multiply daily. Growth does not forgive gaps; it magnifies them. The Fault Lines Behind Sudden Collapse Several weaknesses commonly surface as businesses expand. Founder-dependent operations remain one of the most prevalent. When decision-making, key relationships, and institutional memory sit with one individual, fatigue, illness, or distraction can stall the entire enterprise. Cash-flow pressure is another silent threat. Sales may increase, but liquidity tightens as growth absorbs money through inventory, credit, logistics, and payroll. Without disciplined cash management, even profitable businesses can become insolvent quickly. Informal systems operating at formal scale also create vulnerability. Verbal agreements, undocumented processes, and unclear roles invite disputes, errors, and costly misunderstandings. Weak middle management leaves founders trapped between strategy and daily operations, unable to see risks forming until they become critical. In many cases, there is also a growing gap between reputation and reality: the brand appears solid, but internal controls and governance remain fragile. Why Collapse Appears Sudden To outsiders, failure looks abrupt. To insiders, it is usually the end of a prolonged period of strain. Problems are postponed because there is always something urgent to fix. Reflection is delayed because the business feels too busy to slow down. Decisions become reactive rather than strategic. When the break finally comes—through a cash-flow crisis, regulatory issue, staff exodus, or reputational shock—it feels sudden only because earlier warning signs were ignored. What Sustainable Businesses Do Differently Businesses that survive growth act deliberately. They build systems early. They separate ownership from operations. They track cash flow with discipline, not optimism. They invest in people who can make decisions independently of the founder. Most importantly, they treat growth with caution rather than celebration. They strengthen foundations before expanding further. In a market that glorifies hustle and visibility, the most sustainable businesses are often quieter. They grow deliberately. They appear less impressive in the short term—but they endure. For many Zimbabwean enterprises, the real danger is not stagnation. It is growing before the business is ready to carry the weight of its own success. Simbarashe Namusi is a peace, leadership and governance scholar as well as media expert writing in his personal capacity