Healthcare funders oppose proposed medical aid ownership ban HARARE – Zimbabwe's healthcare funders have urged Parliament to reject proposed regulations that would prohibit medical aid societies from owning, managing or operating healthcare facilities, warning that the move could undermine investment, disrupt healthcare delivery and trigger constitutional challenges. In a letter dated 19 June 2026 addressed to Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee chairperson Eddison Zvobgo Jr, the Association of Healthcare Funders of Zimbabwe (AHFOZ) said the proposed amendments would have far-reaching legal, economic and public health consequences. The association argues that the regulations would force medical aid societies to divest from hospitals and other healthcare investments through subsidiary legislation rather than an Act of Parliament. AHFOZ chief executive Shylet Sanyanga urged legislators to subject the proposals to closer parliamentary scrutiny. "On behalf of our members and the medical aid industry at large, we respectfully seek the intervention and scrutiny of your committee in relation to the proposed amendment," Sanyanga wrote. "The proposed amendment seeks to prohibit medical aid societies from owning, managing or operating healthcare services or facilities. It further seeks to compel the affected societies to submit divestiture plans in respect of existing healthcare investments." The healthcare industry body said it had already presented submissions to Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Health outlining how the proposed regulations could negatively affect healthcare access, affordability and benefits for medical aid members. Its latest submission focuses on the legality of the proposed reforms. According to AHFOZ, while the Minister of Health and Child Care has powers to make regulations under the Medical Services Act, those powers do not extend to imposing a blanket prohibition on vertical integration or compelling institutions to dispose of lawfully acquired assets. The association argues that such a fundamental restructuring of Zimbabwe's healthcare sector should only be undertaken through primary legislation debated and approved by Parliament. AHFOZ further contends that compulsory divestiture could infringe constitutional protections relating to property rights and expose the Government to legal challenges. The association warned that forcing medical aid societies to sell hospitals and healthcare facilities would weaken integrated healthcare delivery systems that enable funders to coordinate patient care more efficiently. It said the proposed regulations could discourage future private investment in Zimbabwe's health sector, create uncertainty for healthcare workers and patients, and increase the cost of medical services. AHFOZ also dismissed the argument that the regulations are necessary to promote competition. It argued that competition-related issues fall under the jurisdiction of the Competition and Tariff Commission in terms of the Competition Act, adding that concerns over vertical integration should be assessed on a case-by-case basis rather than through a blanket prohibition. The association warned that the proposed reforms could force the sale of strategic healthcare assets, disrupt provider networks and increase reliance on third-party healthcare providers with limited capacity. AHFOZ has urged Parliament to reject the proposed regulations in their current form and instead pursue comprehensive legislative reforms through a full parliamentary process. The association said any major changes to Zimbabwe's healthcare regulatory framework should be supported by broad stakeholder consultations and evidence-based assessments of their likely impact on competition, investment, healthcare access and affordability. Health sector analysts say the outcome of Parliament's deliberations could have significant implications for the future structure of Zimbabwe's private healthcare system and investor confidence in the sector. Medical aid ownership ban Zimbabwe

Police have arrested an 18-year-old Marondera woman after she allegedly threw her one-year-old daughter into a dam. A local fisherman rescued the child. MARONDERA – An 18-year-old woman from Baker Farm in Marondera has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after allegedly throwing her one-year-old daughter into a dam following a domestic dispute. According to ZTN News, the suspect, Clara Ali, allegedly argued with her boyfriend over her current pregnancy before the incident. Police allege that after the dispute, Ali threw her one-year-old daughter into a nearby dam and fled the scene, leaving the child in the water. Fortunately, a local fisherman who was nearby witnessed the incident and immediately rushed to rescue the infant. The fisherman managed to pull the child from the dam alive before raising the alarm. Authorities have not yet disclosed the child's medical condition or whether she sustained any injuries. Police have since arrested Ali, who is expected to face charges of attempted murder. Investigations into the incident are continuing. Under Zimbabwean law, criminal charges are allegations, and the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. In a separate incident, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched an investigation after an infant was found abandoned in Goromonzi District. Police said an approximately three-month-old baby girl was discovered behind a kitchen hut at Chaiyezvi Village on 2 July 2026. The infant was wearing a white romper, grey socks and a black-and-white woollen hat and was wrapped in a grey baby blanket. Authorities are appealing to members of the public with information that could assist investigators in identifying the child's parents or guardians to come forward. The two incidents have renewed concerns over child welfare and the protection of vulnerable children in Zimbabwe. Police continue to urge members of the public facing family or social challenges to seek assistance from relatives, community leaders, social welfare offices or other support services rather than abandoning or harming children. Anyone with information relating to the abandoned baby is encouraged to report to their nearest police station. Marondera attempted murder

ZERA reduces diesel and petrol prices in Zimbabwe HARARE – The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has reduced the maximum pump prices of diesel and petrol, offering motorists and businesses relief after a decline in global crude oil prices driven by easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. In a pricing update issued on Wednesday, 8 July 2026, ZERA announced that diesel will now retail at a maximum price of US$1.87 per litre, while blend petrol (E20) will sell for US$1.93 per litre. The new prices represent a further reduction from the previous fortnight, when diesel was capped at US$1.99 per litre and petrol at US$1.98. The latest adjustment continues a downward trend that began in June, when diesel sold for US$2.09 per litre and petrol for US$2.08, reflecting improving conditions on the international oil market. "The petroleum prices are effective from 08 July 2026 for a period of two weeks. Government interventions continue to cushion consumers from the impact of global geopolitical developments," ZERA said in a statement. The reduction is expected to ease transport and logistics costs for businesses while lowering fuel expenses for motorists, farmers and public transport operators. Fuel prices in Zimbabwe are reviewed every two weeks and are largely influenced by movements in international oil prices, freight costs, exchange rates and taxes. Global crude oil prices have softened in recent weeks after tensions in the Middle East eased, reducing fears of supply disruptions that had earlier pushed prices higher. Lower international oil prices generally translate into lower import costs for Zimbabwe, which imports all of its refined petroleum products. ZERA confirmed that the country's mandatory E20 blending ratio remains in force, meaning petrol sold locally contains up to 20% ethanol blended with unleaded petrol as part of the Government's renewable energy policy. The energy regulator also reminded fuel retailers that while the published prices are the maximum allowable pump prices, operators are permitted to charge less depending on their commercial advantages. "The public and operators are advised that the blending ratio is at E20. Operators may sell the petroleum products below the prescribed prices depending on their trading advantages and should display prices in a prominent place as provided for by the fuel pricing regulations," ZERA said. Fuel prices remain a critical component of Zimbabwe's economy, influencing the cost of transportation, manufacturing, agriculture and the prices of goods and services. Economists say sustained stability in international oil markets could help moderate inflationary pressures and reduce operating costs across several sectors of the economy. Businesses and consumers will, however, continue to monitor developments in global energy markets, where geopolitical events and supply dynamics remain key determinants of future fuel price movements. ZERA fuel prices July 2026

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has signed the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Act, 2026, bringing into effect major constitutional reforms affecting elections, Parliament, the judiciary and governance. Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) 2026 No. 6 ACT To amend the Constitution of Zimbabwe. WHEREAS sections 88 and 117 of the Constitution provide that— “88(1) Executive authority derives from the people of Zimbabwe and must be exercised in accordance with this Constitution. (2) The executive authority of Zimbabwe vests in the President who exercises it, subject to this Constitution, through the Cabinet.” “117(1) The legislative authority of Zimbabwe is derived from the people and is vested in and exercised in accordance with this Constitution by the Legislature. (2) The legislative authority confers on the Legislature the power— (a) to amend this Constitution in accordance with section 328; (b) to make laws for the peace, order and good governance of Zimbabwe; and (c) to confer subordinate legislative powers upon another body or authority in accordance with section 134.” AND WHEREAS national development programmes benefit from stability and continuity of policies and legislative frameworks within a predictable governance environment, thereby enabling such programmes to be implemented to completion NOW, THEREFORE, be it enacted by the President and the Parliament of Zimbabwe as follows— Printed by the Government Printer, Harare H.B. 1B, 2026 1 Short title This Act may be cited as the Constitution of Zimbabwe (Amendment) Act (No. 3), 2026. 2 New section inserted in Constitution A new section is inserted after section 43 (continuation and restoration of previous) as follows— “43A Registration of Voters, voters’ rolls and registers The Registrar-General shall— (a) register voters; (b) compile voters’ rolls and registers; (c) ensure the proper custody and maintenance of the voters’ rolls and registers.” 3 Amendment of section 92 of Constitution Section 92 (“Election of President”) of the Constitution is repealed and substituted by the following— “92 Election of President (1) The President must be elected by the members of Parliament in a joint sitting of the Senate and the National Assembly. (2) The election must take place at a joint sitting of Parliament following the swearing-in of members of the Senate and the National Assembly and the election of the Speaker of the National Assembly and the President of the Senate, respectively, after every general election, or whenever necessary to fill a vacancy in the office of President. (3) To be elected President, the candidate must receive more than half of the valid votes cast by the members of Parliament. (4) In the event that none of the presidential candidates receive a majority in the first ballot, a run-off ballot must be held between the two candidates with the highest number of votes and the candidate receiving the majority in the run-off is declared elected as President. (5) The election of the President shall be conducted by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, in accordance with the Electoral Law and Standing Orders. (6) A person elected as President under this section must cease to be a member of Parliament upon assuming office, if they were a member at the time of election. (7) In the case of a vacancy in the office of President due to death, resignation, removal, or incapacity, an election must be held at a joint sitting of Parliament not more than thirty days after the vacancy occurs. (8) No amendment to any law or enactment introducing substantive policy changes shall be passed by Parliament during the period between the occurrence of a vacancy in the office of the President and the election of a new President by Parliament.” 4 Amendment of section 94 of Constitution Section 94 (“Assumption of office by President and Vice-President”) of Constitution is amended by the repeal of subsection (3). 5 Amendment of section 95 of Constitution Section 95 (“Term of office of President and Vice-Presidents”) of the Constitution is amended— (a) in subsection (2)(b) by the deletion of the words “five years” and the substitution of “seven years”. (b) by the insertion of the following new subsection after subsection (2) as follows— “(2a) Notwithstanding section 328(7), subsection (2)(b) shall apply to the continuation in office of the President.” 6 Amendment of section 100 of Constitution Section 100 (“Acting President”) of the Constitution is amended in subsection (1)— (a) paragraph (a) by the deletion of the word “first”. (b) by the repeal of paragraph (b). 7 Amendment of section 101 of Constitution Section 101 (“Succession in event of death, resignation or incapacity of President or Vice President”) of the Constitution is repealed and substituted with the following— “101 Succession in event of death, resignation or incapacity of President If the person elected as President dies, resigns, or is removed from office the Vice President or, where there are two Vice-Presidents, the Vice-President who was last nominated to act in terms of section 100, acts as President until a new President assumes office in terms of section 92.” 8 Amendment of section 114 of Constitution Section 114 (“Attorney General”) of the Constitution is amended in subsection (3) by the deletion of “High Court” and the substitution of “Supreme Court” 9 Amendment of section 120 of Constitution Section 120 (“Composition of Senate”) of the Constitution is amended in subsection (1)— (a) by the deletion of the word “eighty” and the substitution of “ninety”. (b) by the insertion of a new paragraph after paragraph (d) as follows— “(e) ten appointed by the President chosen for their professional skills and other competencies after consultation with the National Assembly.” 10 Amendment of section 143 of Constitution Section 143 (“Duration and dissolution of Parliament”) of the Constitution is amended— (a) in subsection (1) by the deletion of the words “five-year term” and the substitution of “seven-year term.” (b) by the insertion of the following new subsection after subsection (2) as follows— “(2a) Notwithstanding section 328(7), subsection (1) shall apply to the continuation in office of the Senate and National Assembly.” 11 Amendment of section 145 of Constitution Section 145 (“First sitting of Parliament following general election”) is repealed and substituted by the following— “145 First sitting of Parliament following general election (1) After a general election, the first sitting of Parliament must take place at a time and on a date determined by the Clerk of Parliament in a notice published in the Gazette, but not later than fourteen days after the election result has been declared. (2) Until the election of the President of the Senate or the Speaker, the first meeting of each House of Parliament must be presided over by the Clerk of Parliament.” 12 Amendment of section 158 of Constitution Section 158 (“Timing of elections”) of the Constitution is amended— (a) by the repeal of paragraph (a) of subsection (1) and the substitution of the following— “(a) thirty days before the expiry of the seven-year period specified in section 143.” (b) in subsection (2) by the deletion of “President and”. 13 Insertion of new section in Part 3 of Chapter 7 of Constitution Chapter 7 Part 3 (“Delimitation of Electoral Boundaries”) of the Constitution is amended by the insertion of a new section 159A before “section 160” as follows— “159A Delimitation Commission (1) From time to time, as may be required for the purposes of this Constitution, the President shall appoint the Delimitation Commission which shall consist of— (a) a chairperson who must be a Supreme Court judge or a former Supreme Court judge or a person qualified for appointment as a Supreme Court judge appointed after consultation with the Judicial Service Commission; and (b) five other members who are appointed— (i) at least one must be qualified in demography, and have been so qualified for at least seven years; (ii) at least one chosen for their knowledge and experience in administration and governance and possesses relevant qualification from a certified institution; (iii) at least one must be qualified in cartography and have been so qualified for at least seven years; (iv) a representative from the National Chiefs Council who has knowledge in delimitation. (2) Where the members of the Delimitation Commission are not unanimous regarding any matter, the view of the majority shall prevail and, in the event of an equality of votes, the chairperson shall have a casting vote. (3) An Act of Parliament shall provide for the functions of the Delimitation Commission.”. 14 Amendment of section 160 of Constitution Section 160 (“Number of constituencies and wards”) of the Constitution is amended in subsections (1) and (2) by the deletion of “Zimbabwe Electoral Commission” with the substitution of “Delimitation Commission”. 15 Amendment of section 161 of Constitution Section 161 (“Delimitation of electoral boundaries”) of the Constitution is amended— (a) by the deletion of “Zimbabwe Electoral Commission” and the substitution of “Delimitation Commission” wherever it appears in this section; (b) in subsection (2), the deletion of “six months” and the substitution of “eighteen months”. 16 Amendment of section 163 of Constitution Section 163 (“The Judiciary”) of the Constitution is amended— (i) in subsection (1) by the repeal of paragraph (b) and the substitution of the following paragraph— “(b) the Judge President of the Supreme Court and other judges of the Supreme Court;”; (ii) by the repeal of subsection (2) and the substitution of the following subsections— “(2) The Chief Justice is head of the judiciary and is in charge of the Constitutional Court. (2a) The Judge President of the Supreme Court is in charge of that court.”. 17 Amendment of section 166 of Constitution Section 166 (“Constitutional Court”) of the Constitution is amended in subsection (1) by the repeal of paragraph (b) and the substitution of the following— “(b) no fewer than five other judges of the Constitutional Court;”. 18 Amendment of section 167 of Constitution Section 167 (“Jurisdiction of Constitutional Court”) of the Constitution is amended by the insertion of a new subsection (6) after subsection (5) as follows— “(6) The Constitutional Court may decide any other matter, if the Constitutional Court grants leave to appeal on the grounds that the matter raises an arguable point of law of general public importance which ought to be considered by the Court.”. 19 Amendment of section 168 of Constitution Section 168 (“Supreme Court”) of the Constitution is amended by the repeal of subsection 1 and the substitution of the following— “(1) The Supreme Court is a superior court of record and consists of— (a) the Judge President of the Supreme Court; (b) no fewer than two other judges of the Supreme Court; and (c) any additional judges appointed in terms of subsection (2).”. 20 Amendment of section 180 of Constitution Section 180 (“Appointment of Judges”) of the Constitution is amended— (a) in subsection (1) by the insertion after the “the Deputy Chief Justice”, of “the Judge President of the Supreme Court”; (b) by the repeal of subsection (2) and the substitution of the following— “(2) The Chief Justice, the Deputy Chief Justice, the Judge President of the Supreme Court, the Judge President of the High Court and all other judges shall be appointed by the President after consultation with the Judicial Service Commission.”. 21 Amendment of section 181 of Constitution Section 181 (“Acting judicial appointments”) of the Constitution is amended— (i) in subsection (2) by the insertion of new paragraph (a) before the current paragraph (a) as follows— “(a) Judge President of the Supreme Court;”; (ii) in subsection (3) by the insertion of the words “or any other person qualified to be appointed as a judge of the court concerned” after “a former judge”. 22 Amendment of section 212 of Constitution Section 212 (“Functions of Defence Forces”) of the Constitution is repealed and substituted by the following— “212 Functions of Defence Forces Subject to sections 207 and 208, the function of the Defence Forces is to protect Zimbabwe, its people, its national security, its interests, its territorial integrity and to uphold this Constitution.”. 23 Amendment of section 232 of Constitution Section 232 (“Independent Commissions”) is amended by the repeal of paragraph (e). 24 Amendment of section 239 of Constitution Section 239 (“Function of Zimbabwe Electoral Commission”) of the Constitution is amended by the repeal of paragraphs (c), (d), (e) and (f). 25 Amendment of section 243 of Constitution Section 243 (“Functions of Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission”) of the Constitution is amended in subsection (1) by the repeal of paragraph (i) and the substitution of the following— “(i) to recommend to Parliament and the Executive appropriate and effective measures for the promotion of human rights and fundamental freedom, including the enactment of legislation and the formulation of policies directed towards national healing, reconciliation and nation-building;”. 26 Amendment of section 259 of Constitution Section 259 (“Prosecutor-General and other officers”) of the Constitution is amended in subsection (3) by the deletion of “on the advice of the Judicial Service Commission”. 27 Repeal of Part 6 of Chapter 12 of Constitution Chapter 12 of the Constitution is amended by the repeal of Part 6 (“National Peace and Reconciliation Commission”). 28 Amendment of section 277 of Constitution Section 277 (“Elections to local authorities”) of the Constitution is amended by the repeal of subsection (4) and the substitution of the following— “(4) An Act of Parliament may provide for the election, by a system of proportional representation referred to in subsection (5), of at least— (a) thirty per centum of the total members of the local council elected on a ward basis as women; (b) ten per centum of the total members of the local council elected on a ward basis shall be youth aged eighteen to thirty-five years.”. 29 Amendment of section 285 of Constitution Section 285 (“National Council and provincial assemblies of Chiefs”) of the Constitution is amended in subsection (6) by the deletion of “five years” and the substitution of “seven years”. Constitution Amendment Act No. 3 Zimbabwe

AmaZulu King Misuzulu ka Zwelithini and King Ndamase Ndamase are expected to travel to Zimbabwe for talks with President Emmerson Mnangagwa on regional migration, xenophobia and Southern African cooperation. HARARE – AmaZulu King Misuzulu ka Zwelithini and King Ndamase Ndamase of Western Pondoland are expected to visit Zimbabwe for high-level talks with President Emmerson Mnangagwa as regional leaders seek solutions to escalating anti-immigrant tensions in South Africa. The proposed visit comes amid growing concern over xenophobic sentiment in South Africa, which has prompted thousands of Zimbabweans to return home in recent weeks. According to reports, Ndamase, leader of the AmaMpondo aseNyandeni in South Africa's Eastern Cape, wrote to South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola on July 3, formally notifying him of the planned diplomatic mission. Lamola's spokesperson, Chrispin Phiri, confirmed that the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) had received the correspondence and would engage the traditional leaders on their proposal. Ndamase said the initiative followed a high-level meeting convened by President Cyril Ramaphosa on June 27, where South Africa's traditional leaders discussed rising anti-immigrant sentiment and possible interventions. The meeting preceded nationwide demonstrations held on June 30, when anti-immigration groups staged protests after calling on undocumented foreign nationals to leave South Africa. According to Ndamase, he and King Misuzulu also held separate discussions with Ramaphosa on June 28, during which they agreed that regional engagement was necessary to address migration-related tensions. The two traditional leaders intend to discuss xenophobia, migration, regional integration and the role of minority communities within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). They have also proposed hosting a SADC Regional Minority Summit in Victoria Falls, aimed at promoting regional dialogue and transforming migration into what Ndamase described as a "strategic asset for regional investment." In a separate letter addressed to President Mnangagwa, also dated July 3, Ndamase requested a meeting with the Zimbabwean leader, citing his Pan-Africanist credentials and describing him as well placed to facilitate dialogue on migration and regional cooperation. The planned engagement has been confirmed by ZANU PF spokesperson Chris Mutsvangwa, who said President Mnangagwa would receive the traditional leaders as part of broader regional efforts to address what he described as the "weaponisation of poverty." Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Mutsvangwa said the President had been communicating through intermediaries linked to traditional leadership structures in KwaZulu-Natal, as well as among the amaXhosa and amaMpondo. He said correspondence had been received from the Kingdom of Zululand, the King of the AmaMpondo and the Xhosa Paramount King, with discussions expected to focus on practical regional responses to migration challenges. The diplomatic initiative comes as Zimbabwe continues to receive citizens returning from South Africa. On Tuesday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Zhemu Soda said 21,291 Zimbabweans had been repatriated through Government-assisted arrangements since May 28, while another 56,832 had returned independently, bringing the total number of returnees to more than 78,000. Government has established an Inter-Ministerial Committee at the Beitbridge Reception Centre to coordinate the reception, registration, transportation and reintegration of returnees. Observers say the forthcoming meeting between President Mnangagwa and the two traditional leaders could contribute to broader regional efforts to promote peaceful coexistence, address migration challenges and strengthen cooperation among Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states. AmaZulu King Misuzulu Zimbabwe visit

Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma HARARE – Police in the United Kingdom have launched an international manhunt for a British passport holder of Zimbabwean descent following the discovery of three bodies at a home in Great Denham, Bedfordshire. Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, 45, who is also known as Mark Tshuma, is being sought by Bedfordshire Police in connection with the deaths of a woman and two children believed to be members of his immediate family. Police believe the victims are his wife, Nothabo Zandile Tshuma, 42, and their daughters, Natalie Tshuma, 15, and Nala Tshuma, five. According to Bedfordshire Police, the bodies were discovered at a property in Great Denham on Monday after officers were called to the scene. Detectives have since confirmed that Tshuma is believed to have boarded a flight from Heathrow Airport to Zimbabwe on Saturday, prompting an international search involving British and overseas law enforcement agencies. Senior investigating officer Lee Martin said investigators were pursuing multiple lines of enquiry. "We have been carrying out numerous lines of enquiry as part of this fast-paced, complex investigation. We know that Mark Tshuma left the country on Saturday and is now believed to be in Zimbabwe." Martin appealed directly to the suspect to surrender to authorities. "We are urgently working to find and apprehend him, and would appeal to him directly to hand himself in. "Mark, unthinkable harm has been caused to those around you, and this has left your relatives and friends utterly devastated. Criminal investigation knows no borders. We are actively working with national and international agencies to pursue every available line of enquiry to track you down. "Please do the right thing, come forward and hand yourself in to local authorities." He added that detectives remained focused on securing justice for the victims. "Our thoughts are still very much with Zandile, Natalie and Nala, as well as all of those who loved and knew them, at this extremely difficult time." Bedfordshire Police said they are working closely with national and international partners as efforts continue to locate Tshuma. Anyone with information about his whereabouts has been urged to contact Bedfordshire Police on 101 or provide information anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of death or released further details about the circumstances surrounding the killings, saying the investigation remains active. Under UK law, investigations are ongoing, and any criminal proceedings will be determined through the courts. Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma

CHRA calls for Lake Chivero pollution to be declared a national disaster HARARE – The Combined Harare Residents Association (CHRA) has called on the Government to declare the worsening pollution of Lake Chivero a state of national disaster, warning that unchecked contamination is threatening public health, increasing water treatment costs and undermining Zimbabwe's environmental sustainability. Speaking at a media briefing in Harare on Tuesday, CHRA Programmes Manager Mable Murambiwa described the pollution of Lake Chivero and other water sources in the Upper Manyame Catchment as one of the country's most urgent environmental and public health emergencies. "The continued pollution of water sources continues to violate residents' constitutionally guaranteed right to a clean environment as well as clean, safe and potable water as espoused under Sections 73 and 77 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe," Murambiwa said. Lake Chivero is Harare's principal raw water source, supplying millions of residents in the capital and surrounding towns. However, decades of untreated sewage discharges, industrial pollution and invasive aquatic weeds have severely degraded water quality, forcing the City of Harare to spend millions of dollars annually on water purification chemicals. Murambiwa attributed the deteriorating water quality to industries that continue to discharge untreated effluent into municipal sewer systems without installing mandatory pre-treatment facilities as required under the Environmental Management Act. She said recurring sewer bursts and infrastructure failures in Crowborough, Firle and Chitungwiza have further worsened pollution flowing into Harare's rivers and ultimately Lake Chivero. According to CHRA, an estimated 250 million litres of raw sewage enter the lake every day, accelerating eutrophication, algal blooms and the deterioration of Zimbabwe's largest urban water reservoir. Murambiwa said CHRA's research had identified several weaknesses in Zimbabwe's environmental management framework, including fragmented legislation, overlapping institutional responsibilities, weak regulatory enforcement and poor coordination among Government agencies. She also criticised existing pollution permit fees and penalties, arguing that they fail to discourage environmental violations. "In Zimbabwe, it is cheaper to pollute rather than comply with the environmental water laws." The residents' association also warned members of the public against purchasing fish caught illegally from Lake Chivero, saying contamination poses potential health risks to consumers. Environmental experts have previously raised concerns about the accumulation of pollutants, including heavy metals and harmful bacteria, in contaminated water bodies, although regular monitoring and food safety assessments remain essential in determining risks to human health. Murambiwa said CHRA has developed a Model Statutory Instrument based on the internationally recognised "polluter pays" principle, which would require industries responsible for pollution to bear the full costs of environmental rehabilitation and ecosystem restoration. The organisation also plans to launch a nationwide public awareness campaign targeting councillors, Members of Parliament, Government departments, community leaders and residents to strengthen compliance with environmental legislation. In addition, CHRA is urging Parliament to fast-track amendments to the Environmental Management Act, the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) Act and the Water Act to strengthen Zimbabwe's legal response to water pollution. "The situation at Lake Chivero deserves urgent attention and is, in itself, a state of national disaster," Murambiwa said. Environmental groups have long argued that restoring Lake Chivero will require substantial investment in sewer infrastructure, stricter enforcement of pollution control laws and coordinated action by central Government, local authorities, industry and residents. Lake Chivero pollution

Zimbabwe compels private hospitals to provide emergency treatment regardless of payment HARARE – Private health institutions in Zimbabwe are now legally required to admit and provide emergency treatment to patients with life-threatening medical conditions regardless of their ability to pay, following the gazetting of the Medical Services Amendment Act, 2026. The new legislation marks a significant reform of Zimbabwe's healthcare system by placing a statutory duty on private hospitals, clinics and healthcare practitioners to provide life-saving treatment before discussing payment arrangements. Under the law, private health institutions must provide emergency medical treatment and stabilise patients for up to 48 hours, or until they can be safely transferred to another appropriate health facility capable of providing continued care. The Act defines emergency medical treatment as healthcare necessary to treat or prevent a life-threatening but reversible deterioration in a person's condition that poses an immediate risk to life or could result in permanent damage to their long-term health. The legal obligation remains in force until the patient's condition has been stabilised or the medical emergency has been adequately addressed. The legislation also strengthens the Government's ability to respond to public health emergencies. Under the amendments, the Minister of Health and Child Care may direct private health institutions to provide specialist medical services to patients referred from public hospitals during public health emergencies or other exceptional circumstances where public facilities are overwhelmed or unable to provide the required care. Health policy experts have long argued that stronger collaboration between the public and private healthcare sectors is essential to improve access to critical medical services, particularly during disease outbreaks and other national emergencies. While the law guarantees emergency medical care irrespective of a patient's financial circumstances, it also establishes a legal framework allowing private healthcare providers to recover the costs incurred. Hospitals may reclaim treatment expenses through agreements with the State or, where appropriate, directly from patients, ensuring that healthcare providers are not left to absorb the financial burden of emergency treatment. The amendments seek to strike a balance between protecting patients' constitutional right to emergency healthcare and maintaining the financial sustainability of private medical institutions. The new law introduces criminal penalties for healthcare institutions and practitioners who unlawfully refuse to provide emergency treatment. Heads of private health institutions who deny admission to emergency patients without lawful justification, as well as healthcare practitioners who refuse treatment without the authority of the institution, may face a Level 8 fine, imprisonment for up to one year, or both. The legislation is expected to improve access to emergency healthcare, particularly for accident victims and critically ill patients who have previously faced delays in receiving treatment because of demands for upfront payment. Healthcare advocates have welcomed reforms aimed at ensuring that no patient is denied life-saving medical attention due to financial constraints, while also providing legal certainty for private hospitals on recovering the costs of emergency care. The Medical Services Amendment Act, 2026 takes effect immediately following its publication in the Government Gazette. Zimbabwe Medical Services Amendment Act 2026

Epworth man hospitalised after alleged stabbing over burial dispute HARARE – A 27-year-old Epworth man is fighting for his life at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals after he was allegedly stabbed several times during a dispute over attending the burial of national hero Evaristo Dzihwema at the National Heroes Acre. The suspect, Bignews Zvarevashe, appeared before Harare magistrate Jessie Kufa on Tuesday facing an attempted murder charge. He was remanded in custody pending further court proceedings. According to allegations presented in court, the incident occurred on July 5 at around 7:30 pm at Manjemanje Shops in Waterfalls, Harare. Prosecutors allege that Zvarevashe was mobilising residents to attend Dzihwema's burial when he approached Dillon Chisango, 27. The court heard that Chisango indicated he would be unable to attend because he was scheduled to report for work. State prosecutors allege that the response angered Zvarevashe, who allegedly attacked Chisango with a broken beer bottle. It is alleged that Chisango sustained multiple deep cuts to the chest, chin, back, head and left palm during the assault. Members of the public who witnessed the incident reportedly intervened before overpowering the suspect and carrying out a citizen's arrest. Chisango was rushed to hospital, where he remains in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) receiving treatment. Medical authorities have not publicly commented on his condition. Zvarevashe has been charged with attempted murder, one of Zimbabwe's most serious violent offences. The matter is expected to return to court as investigations continue. Under Zimbabwean law, criminal charges are allegations until proven in court, and the accused is presumed innocent unless and until convicted. The alleged assault has shocked residents in Waterfalls and Epworth, with many expressing concern over the violent nature of the incident. Police have not yet released an official statement on the matter. The burial of Evaristo Dzihwema, who was declared a national hero, took place at the National Heroes Acre on Monday and was attended by senior Government officials, liberation war veterans and members of the public. Authorities have urged members of the public to resolve disputes peacefully and avoid resorting to violence. Epworth man stabbed

Zimbabwe repatriates over 78,000 citizens from South Africa HARARE – The Zimbabwean Government says more than 78,000 citizens have returned from South Africa since the launch of a nationwide repatriation programme in May, as authorities continue to scale up support for thousands fleeing rising anti-immigrant tensions across the border. Briefing journalists after Tuesday's Cabinet meeting, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Zhemu Soda said 21,291 Zimbabweans had been repatriated through Government-assisted arrangements since the exercise began on May 28, 2026, while a further 56,832 people had returned independently. The combined figure brings the total number of returnees to 78,123. Soda said Government had established an Inter-Ministerial Committee at the Beitbridge Reception Centre to coordinate the reception, registration, transportation and reintegration of returning citizens. "An inter-ministerial committee has been established at the Beitbridge Reception Centre to oversee the receiving, registration and transportation of returnees," he said. To manage the growing influx, Government has introduced a range of interventions aimed at ensuring the safe and orderly return of Zimbabwean nationals. According to Soda, authorities have established a 24-hour Inter-Ministerial Command Centre at the Beitbridge Border Post, while 50 ZUPCO buses have been deployed to transport returnees from Beitbridge to their respective provinces. Officials are also providing reception, registration, profiling, health screening, social protection and psychosocial support services at both the Beitbridge Reception Centre and designated district receiving centres. Temporary accommodation facilities have been established to house vulnerable returnees, alongside a temporary clinic equipped with ambulances for emergency medical services. Government has also installed mobile ablution facilities to improve sanitation while mobilising additional resources to sustain transportation, reception and reintegration operations. The repatriation programme has received significant support from the private sector and humanitarian organisations. Businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei, through the Bridging Gaps Foundation, has donated 11 buses to supplement the Government fleet transporting returnees. Additional vehicles have also been provided by businessman Paul Tungwarara and philanthropist Esau Mupfumi. Meanwhile, the Higherlife Foundation and Life Foundation have each donated an ambulance to strengthen emergency medical services at the reception centre. Development partners, including the World Food Programme (WFP), UNICEF and the Adventist Relief and Development Agency (ADRA), are providing food, blankets and other humanitarian assistance to returning families. The repatriation exercise follows a wave of anti-immigrant protests in South Africa, where citizen-led groups had declared June 30 as an unofficial deadline for undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country. The demonstrations, which took place in several communities, raised concerns over the safety of foreign nationals, including Zimbabweans, although South African President Cyril Ramaphosa warned that authorities would act decisively against anyone attempting to incite violence or destabilise the country. President Emmerson Mnangagwa has urged Zimbabweans to receive returning citizens with dignity and compassion. "Let us welcome our returning compatriots with the true African values of compassion, love and caring for one another," the President said, adding that Government had put in place comprehensive programmes to ensure their "seamless, safe and dignified reintegration." While there are no official figures on the number of Zimbabweans living in South Africa, estimates by researchers and migration organisations suggest the population exceeds one million, making South Africa the largest destination for Zimbabwean migrants seeking employment and economic opportunities. Zimbabwe repatriation from South Africa

Zimbabwe exports first commercial shipment of blueberries to China Zimbabwe has successfully exported its first-ever commercial shipment of blueberries to China, marking a major milestone for the country's horticulture sector and opening access to one of the world's fastest-growing fruit markets. The breakthrough follows the signing of a phytosanitary protocol between Zimbabwe and China in September 2025, which granted Zimbabwean growers official market access after negotiations that began in April 2024. The Horticultural Development Council (HDC) described the inaugural shipment as a landmark achievement for the country's fruit export industry. "We have achieved the first shipment. The focus now shifts to scaling production and testing the best supply routes to this huge new market," the council said in a statement marking the milestone. The export agreement was signed in Beijing during President Emmerson Mnangagwa's State visit to China, allowing Zimbabwean blueberries to enter the Chinese market after both countries concluded negotiations on plant health and food safety requirements. The deal builds on an earlier protocol that opened the Chinese market to Zimbabwean avocados in 2024, further strengthening agricultural trade between the two countries. Adding to the commercial opportunity is China's decision to grant zero-tariff treatment on all tariff lines for the 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations, meaning Zimbabwean blueberries now enter the Chinese market duty-free. China has become one of the world's largest importers of blueberries as consumer demand for premium fresh fruit continues to rise. Industry figures show Chinese blueberry imports increased from approximately 665 tonnes in 2005 to nearly 39,000 tonnes in 2024, with Peru and Chile currently dominating supplies. The new market presents Zimbabwean growers with an opportunity to diversify exports beyond their traditional destinations in the European Union, the United Kingdom and the Middle East. Zimbabwe's blueberry industry has expanded rapidly over the past decade. Commercial cultivation began on a small scale in 2008, while the country's first exports were recorded in 2017. Production reached an estimated 8,000 tonnes in 2024 and is projected to increase to 12,000 tonnes in 2026 as new orchards come into production. Speaking at the Zimbabwe-China Investment Symposium last week, Horticultural Development Council chief executive Linda Nielsen said the new export opportunity now requires increased production. "China has opened the door. We must now make sure we have enough product to walk through it." She said maintaining access to the lucrative Chinese market would depend on growers consistently meeting strict sanitary and phytosanitary standards governing fresh produce imports. The council has also acknowledged that compliance costs, logistics and certification requirements will influence the pace of exports in the initial stages. Growers say expansion is also being constrained by high borrowing costs and limited access to long-term financing. The industry plans to increase blueberry production from approximately 600 hectares currently under cultivation to 1,500 hectares, supported by a proposed US$50 million financing facility from the Infrastructure Development Bank of Zimbabwe (IDBZ). The blueberry industry forms part of the Government's Horticulture Recovery and Growth Plan, which aims to transform Zimbabwe into a regional horticultural powerhouse and grow the sector into a US$2 billion industry through increased exports, value addition and investment. The successful entry into the Chinese market is expected to strengthen Zimbabwe's agricultural export earnings while creating new opportunities for growers seeking to expand production for international markets. Zimbabwe blueberries exports to China

JSC recruits more magistrates as Zimbabwe courts face rising case backlog HARARE – A sharp increase in drug-related and cybercrime cases is placing growing pressure on Zimbabwe's magistrates' courts, forcing the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to accelerate the recruitment of magistrates and expand court services to reduce a mounting case backlog. Speaking after the swearing-in of 25 newly appointed magistrates in Harare on Monday, Chief Magistrate Vongai Guwuriro Muchuchuti said the country's evolving crime landscape was significantly increasing the workload faced by judicial officers. "The backlog is also influenced by what is happening in the country," Muchuchuti told journalists. "We are receiving a significant number of drug-related cases, as well as many cases involving digital crimes. We must therefore be prepared to deal with these emerging offences." The remarks underscore the growing burden that drug trafficking, substance abuse offences and cyber-enabled crimes are placing on Zimbabwe's justice system, with courts increasingly handling complex cases involving online fraud, electronic evidence and digital financial crimes. Muchuchuti said the recruitment and swearing-in of additional magistrates formed part of a broader strategy by the JSC to improve the efficiency of the justice delivery system. "This is one of the measures the Commission is taking to address the backlog," she said. She added that the decentralisation of court services was another key intervention designed to improve access to justice while reducing delays in case completion. "These are some of the measures the Judicial Service Commission is putting in place to deal with the case backlog so that we can effectively manage the workload coming before our courts and ensure that we are ready to adjudicate all cases brought before us." In addition to deploying more magistrates, the JSC is expanding mobile courts, particularly in densely populated urban areas, to bring judicial services closer to communities and ease congestion at existing court stations. The latest appointments build on an earlier recruitment exercise in March 2026, when the JSC swore in 17 magistrates as part of its ongoing drive to strengthen judicial capacity across the country. At the time, Muchuchuti said the new judicial officers would be deployed to courts nationwide to ease pressure on overburdened stations. "They will go to various stations throughout the country as we continue to capacitate our courts in terms of recruiting more magistrates so that it can balance with the workload which is there," she said during the March swearing-in ceremony. As of March, Zimbabwe had approximately 268 magistrates, below the JSC's approved establishment of 300, highlighting the need for continued recruitment to meet growing demand for judicial services. The increase in drug-related and cybercrime prosecutions reflects broader law enforcement efforts to combat illegal drug distribution, internet-enabled fraud and financial crimes. Authorities have in recent years intensified operations targeting drug syndicates while also strengthening enforcement of cybercrime legislation to address offences committed through digital platforms. Legal experts say the growing complexity of these cases requires continuous training for magistrates and prosecutors, particularly in handling digital evidence and emerging forms of criminal activity. The JSC says expanding the magistracy, decentralising courts and introducing mobile courts will be critical to ensuring timely justice as Zimbabwe's criminal justice system adapts to new and evolving crime trends. Zimbabwe magistrates courts backlog