HARARE – Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Mthuli Ncube says the Government will maintain its January 2027 deadline requiring lithium producers to beneficiate their minerals locally, despite calls from mining companies for more time to complete processing plants. The policy forms part of Zimbabwe's broader strategy to increase value addition in the mining sector, create jobs and maximise export earnings by moving away from the export of raw lithium concentrates. Speaking to journalists while on a visit to China, Ncube said producers that are unable to construct their own beneficiation plants before the deadline should enter into tolling agreements with companies that already have lithium processing capacity. "We can't expect everybody to come up with a lithium concentrator; it's expensive. So they should sign MoUs with PLZ and Bikita Minerals. To us, that will be adequate for as long as they process their throughput through those two companies," Ncube said. His remarks come after the Lithium Association of Zimbabwe appealed for an extension of the deadline, arguing that most producers were not yet ready to transition from producing lithium concentrates to higher-value lithium sulphate. The association's chairperson, Innocent Rukweza, recently revealed that of Zimbabwe's seven major lithium producers, only one is currently prepared to commence lithium sulphate production. However, Ncube said the Government believes existing processing facilities at Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe (PLZ) and Bikita Minerals will provide sufficient beneficiation capacity for other producers through commercial processing agreements. Under the proposed arrangement, companies without their own refineries would transport their lithium concentrates to the two processing plants for beneficiation before export. Zimbabwe plans to ban the export of lithium concentrates from January 2027, compelling mining companies to process the mineral locally before it is shipped to international markets. The Government argues that local beneficiation will increase export earnings, stimulate industrialisation, create skilled employment and strengthen Zimbabwe's position in the global electric vehicle battery supply chain. Zimbabwe is one of Africa's largest lithium producers and has attracted significant investment from Chinese mining companies in recent years, driven by soaring global demand for battery minerals used in electric vehicles and renewable energy storage technologies. While industry players continue to seek greater flexibility over implementation timelines, the Government has indicated that the current deadline remains unchanged, with toll processing agreements viewed as a practical solution for companies that may not complete their own plants in time. Zimbabwe lithium beneficiation deadline

MASVINGO – Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Ezra Chadzamira has declared that President Emmerson Mnangagwa does not require additional advisers, in remarks widely interpreted as a veiled criticism of Presidential Investment Adviser Paul Tungwarara. Chadzamira made the comments during the funeral wake of the President's niece, Shamiso Mnangagwa, in Masvingo over the weekend, where he urged party members to remain loyal to Zanu PF and questioned the distribution of empowerment initiatives to individuals perceived as critics of the ruling party. "Donations and handouts should be given to those who defend, manage, promote and uplift our revolutionary party, not those who destroy and criticise it," Chadzamira said. He added that President Mnangagwa had consistently advocated unity and national development while maintaining a principled approach to those opposed to Zimbabwe. "Our President is a principled man. We never heard him inviting and empowering those who imposed sanctions against our country. He always preaches that Zimbabwe is not an enemy to anyone, but a friend to all, except those who wish to be our enemies." In remarks that drew attention from party members present, Chadzamira said President Mnangagwa possessed the experience and wisdom to guide the country without relying on outside advisers. "President, you are a par excellence adviser of yourself. You do not need any other adviser. Though there are some who purport to support you on advisory matters, there is no one with the capacity to advise you. We follow your expertise and wisdom, not anyone else." While Chadzamira did not mention Tungwarara by name, his comments come amid growing debate within sections of Zanu PF over the Presidential adviser's recent political activities. The remarks follow concerns raised by some party members over Tungwarara's recent empowerment initiatives and public recognition of individuals who have previously criticised President Mnangagwa, the First Family and businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei. Some party insiders argue that recognising former critics risks alienating long-serving loyalists who have consistently defended the party. Chadzamira said empowerment programmes should prioritise committed party members. "Here in Masvingo, we don't want to see people who are against Zanu PF and its leadership benefiting from empowerment initiatives while those defending the party are left with nothing. We don't want them to benefit." Speaking at the same gathering, Zanu PF Masvingo provincial chairperson Robson Mavhenyengwa also called for donations to party members to be coordinated through official party structures. "Your Excellency, we have witnessed the proliferation of unauthorised donations within our party. We are seeing gifts being distributed and vehicles being given to our youths without my knowledge as provincial chairman," Mavhenyengwa said. "Such initiatives should pass through proper party structures so that they are carried out in an orderly manner for the benefit of the party." The comments come as internal discussions continue within Zanu PF over mobilisation strategies and the management of empowerment programmes ahead of future political activities. At the time of publication, Paul Tungwarara had not publicly responded to the remarks, and efforts to obtain his comment were unsuccessful. Ezra Chadzamira on Paul Tungwarara

KARIBA – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) have launched investigations into a road traffic accident in Kariba involving dancehall musician Malloti, born Millicent Tsitsi Chimonyo, and her husband, Hulungende, after a pregnant woman was injured following a commotion at a live performance. Police say the incident occurred after disorder reportedly broke out during Malloti's show, with investigators now seeking to establish the sequence of events that led to both the disturbance and the subsequent road traffic accident. National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that detectives are conducting a comprehensive investigation. "Police are carrying out a comprehensive investigation linking a local musician to a road traffic accident in Kariba. The musician was reported to have clashed with revellers at a show leading to a commotion. One of the revellers, an expecting mother, was injured," Nyathi said. According to preliminary police findings, the disturbance allegedly began after objects, including stones, were reportedly thrown toward the performer during the show, triggering panic among members of the audience. Witnesses quoted by H-Metro alleged that spectators fled in different directions as chaos erupted at the venue. During the commotion, a pregnant woman is reported to have fallen onto the road as Malloti prepared to leave the venue. She was allegedly struck by a vehicle and was rushed to hospital, where she was admitted for treatment. Police have not disclosed the extent of the woman's injuries. Commissioner Nyathi said preliminary investigations suggest that a white vehicle believed to have been driven by the musician may have been involved in the incident. "The musician was later stopped while she was in Karoi in a blue vehicle. Investigations are continuing with a view to ascertain what actually transpired," he said. Authorities have not announced any arrests or criminal charges in connection with the incident, emphasising that investigations remain ongoing. Malloti, whose real name is Millicent Tsitsi Chimonyo, is known in Zimbabwe's dancehall scene for songs including Waponda Moyo. According to reports, she was performing alongside her husband, Hulungende, when the incident occurred. Police are expected to interview witnesses, event organisers and other individuals present at the venue as part of efforts to determine the circumstances surrounding the disturbance and the subsequent accident. The Zimbabwe Republic Police have urged members of the public to refrain from speculation while investigations continue. Further details are expected to be released once detectives conclude their inquiries. Malloti Kariba accident

BULAWAYO – Police have launched an investigation into a daring robbery at the Cold Storage Company (CSC) in Bulawayo, where thieves allegedly stole more than US$80,000 after disabling the company's security systems and breaking into several office safes. Investigators believe the robbery may have been an inside job, citing evidence that the suspects appeared to have detailed knowledge of the premises, its security arrangements and the location of the cash. According to information obtained during the investigation, the suspects allegedly cut the premises' closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance system before carrying out the robbery, making it difficult for investigators to immediately identify those involved. "The CCTV cameras were cut before the robbery, making it difficult to immediately identify the suspects. Several office safes were forced open, and cash amounting to about US$80,000 was taken," The Chronicle quoted a source familiar with the investigation as saying. Investigators say the manner in which the robbery was executed suggests careful planning and prior knowledge of the building's layout, alarm systems and cash storage facilities. Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident and said detectives were pursuing several leads. "We're investigating a case of robbery in which approximately US$80,000 was stolen from the Cold Storage Company premises in Bulawayo," Nyathi said. "Preliminary investigations indicate that this could be an inside job, although investigations are still in progress." Police have since launched a comprehensive investigation, with detectives expected to interview company employees, security guards and other individuals who had access to the premises before the robbery. Forensic experts are also examining the crime scene for fingerprints, DNA evidence and other forensic material that could assist investigators in identifying the suspects. Security experts say commercial robberies involving the disabling of surveillance equipment often indicate extensive planning and, in some cases, assistance from individuals familiar with internal security procedures. The latest robbery comes amid ongoing concerns over organised commercial crimes targeting businesses that handle large amounts of cash. Commissioner Nyathi appealed to members of the public with any information that could assist the investigation to report it to their nearest police station or contact the Zimbabwe Republic Police through established reporting channels. No arrests had been made at the time of publication, and police said investigations remain ongoing. Cold Storage Company robbery

HARARE – Popular Zimbabwean musician Greatman, born Tongai Gwaze, has admitted operating an unlicensed bar after he was arrested during a police raid in Kuwadzana, Harare. The singer, best known for the hit song Pandakazvarwa, confirmed his arrest in a series of Facebook posts over the weekend, saying he had been detained at Kuwadzana 2 Police Station before being released. In his initial post on Saturday, Gwaze appealed for understanding, saying he had ventured into the bar business as a way of supplementing his income. "Yes, I am human and I make mistakes. But sometimes I am just trying to survive," he wrote in Shona. The musician said he had invested in a small bar after struggling to earn enough money through music. "You all see how I hustle in town. When I got a bit of money, I thought, let me open a small bar so I can also afford basic necessities," he said. According to Gwaze, police officers raided the premises while he was away in Kuwadzana 3, where he said he had gone to donate a wheelchair to a person in need. He claimed officers detained one of his employees and confiscated all the alcohol found at the premises. "No one is even trying to understand me. I am cold, and I don't know what to do. Just let me earn a living here in Zimbabwe. My heart is broken. Why me? How am I supposed to survive in our country?" he wrote. However, in a follow-up statement posted on Sunday, Gwaze acknowledged that he had broken the law by operating the establishment without the required licence. "That was very wrong, and I take full responsibility," he said. The musician also commended the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) for carrying out their duties professionally. "To ZRP Zimbabwe: You did your job, and you did it very well. No one is above the law. I was arrested, and the crates of beer were taken for the State." Gwaze urged other bar owners to comply with licensing regulations to avoid finding themselves in a similar situation. "My plea to you: If you have a small or big bar out there, please do not operate without the proper licences. Let my situation be an example." Although he has since returned home to his family, the musician said the incident had left him facing financial hardship. "I have not had even US$1 to buy bread since yesterday. I am really hungry and struggling to find food," he wrote. Greatman is widely recognised not only for his music but also for his advocacy for people living with disabilities. He has previously donated wheelchairs to vulnerable individuals and has frequently spoken publicly about the economic challenges facing Zimbabwean musicians and artists. The Zimbabwe Republic Police had not issued an official statement on the matter at the time of publication. Greatman arrested

MUTARE – ZANU PF Central Committee member and Presidential Special Advisor on Investment Paul Tungwarara has donated 50 buses to transport Zimbabwean nationals from Manicaland who are returning from South Africa through Beitbridge Border Post. The initiative comes as increasing numbers of Zimbabweans voluntarily return home amid heightened immigration enforcement in South Africa, with provincial authorities saying about 200 returnees from Manicaland have so far been identified at Beitbridge and are awaiting transport. Speaking during the announcement, Tungwarara said the buses would transport returnees free of charge to their respective districts across Manicaland Province. He added that beneficiaries would also receive meals, acknowledging that many of those returning were arriving in difficult circumstances after leaving South Africa. "We have Manicaland returnees stranded at the border, and we met as leadership and resolved to deploy buses from the Women's League, Youth League and Main Wing to rescue them and take them to their districts in the province free of charge. We have given Cde Mupfumi the green light to deploy up to 50 buses," Tungwarara said. He said beneficiaries would be required to produce valid Zimbabwean national identity cards confirming residence in one of Manicaland's seven districts before boarding the buses. The transport initiative follows growing numbers of Zimbabweans seeking voluntary repatriation as uncertainty continues over immigration enforcement measures in South Africa. ZANU PF Manicaland provincial chairperson Tawanda Mukodza welcomed the donation, describing it as a timely intervention that would ease the burden on vulnerable citizens returning home. "These are our people, our children, and we cannot leave them stranded at the border without dignity or support," Mukodza said. He said provincial structures had already put logistical arrangements in place to ensure all verified returnees were transported safely to their home districts at no cost. Mukodza added that the programme reflected the party's commitment to assisting Zimbabweans in distress while helping reunite families separated by migration. Central Committee member and transport operator Isau Mupfumi, whose fleet will provide the buses, said the first group of returnees would begin travelling from Beitbridge on Tuesday. "So far, there are 200 returnees at Beitbridge, and we are ready to deploy two buses immediately to collect and take them home. Some had already dispersed because they were unaware of this programme," Mupfumi said. He said additional buses would remain on standby to accommodate more returnees as they arrive at the border. Mupfumi also announced that Young Women 4ED would deploy five buses to assist female cross-border traders and other women returning from South Africa. The latest initiative comes as Zimbabwean authorities continue working with humanitarian organisations and development partners to facilitate the safe repatriation and reintegration of returning citizens through Beitbridge Border Post. Government statistics released this week show that thousands of Zimbabweans have already returned home voluntarily, with reception centres and provincial authorities coordinating transport, food assistance and onward travel to communities across the country. Paul Tungwarara donates 50 buses

VICTORIA FALLS – Zimbabwean mobile network operator Econet Wireless Zimbabwe has reportedly cancelled South African Afro-pop duo Mafikizolo's scheduled performance at the Buddie Beatz Concert, following mounting public criticism over the timing of the event amid growing xenophobia concerns affecting Zimbabweans living in South Africa. The award-winning duo had been billed to headline the concert scheduled for 5 July 2026 at Baobab Primary School in Victoria Falls alongside local artists including Winky D and Killer T. The reported cancellation comes after outspoken comedienne and musician Felistus "Mai TT" Murata publicly called for the show to be scrapped, arguing that it was insensitive to host South African artists while thousands of Zimbabweans were facing uncertainty and displacement across the border. In a strongly worded social media post, Mai TT questioned why Zimbabweans should support South African performers while fellow citizens were fleeing xenophobic threats. "This is definitely the wrong timing considering what Zimbabweans are currently going through in South Africa," she wrote. She stressed that her stance was not motivated by hostility towards South African artists or their music. "This is not about hating Mafikizolo's talent. Timing matters. Zimbabweans need solidarity, advocacy and practical assistance for those affected before we clap and dance." Mai TT urged organisers and fans to prioritise humanitarian support for returning Zimbabweans instead of entertainment. "The money, energy and attention used for a show can be redirected towards legal aid, repatriation support or helping returning citizens rebuild their lives." Her remarks echoed comments by lawyer and former legislator Fadzayi Mahere, who also argued that it was not an appropriate time for South African artists to perform in Zimbabwe while migrants faced mounting pressure across the border. The backlash followed increasing anxiety among Zimbabweans living in South Africa after anti-immigration groups issued an ultimatum calling on undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country. Thousands of Zimbabweans have since sought assistance from Zimbabwe's diplomatic missions, while Government has stepped up voluntary repatriation efforts through Beitbridge Border Post. According to Presidential spokesperson George Charamba, more than 3,600 Zimbabweans have already been repatriated since the latest wave of xenophobia-related fears emerged. Reports circulating on social media on Monday indicated that Econet had cancelled Mafikizolo's appearance following widespread public criticism. However, at the time of publication, Econet Wireless Zimbabwe had not yet issued an official statement confirming the cancellation, and the company had not publicly commented on the reports. Social media users had accused the event organisers of poor timing, arguing that celebrations involving South African performers were inappropriate while many Zimbabweans remained stranded or were returning home from South Africa. Some activists have also called for regional solidarity against xenophobic violence, urging governments, businesses and artists to speak out against attacks on foreign nationals while promoting peaceful coexistence within the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The reported cancellation of Mafikizolo's performance would add to a growing list of South African artists whose regional engagements have reportedly been affected by the fallout from renewed anti-immigrant sentiment. Mafikizolo Zimbabwe concert cancelled

CHINHOYI – The High Court in Chinhoyi has sentenced a 28-year-old man to 20 years in prison for the murder of his 86-year-old father after accusing the elderly man of practising witchcraft. Justice Phildah Muzofa convicted Talent Chirongoma of murder with constructive intent, ruling that he repeatedly assaulted his father with wooden logs during a violent attack at the family's homestead on September 10, 2025. The court found that although Chirongoma may not have intended to kill his father, he must have foreseen that repeatedly striking an elderly man with wooden logs was likely to cause fatal injuries. "The attack on the deceased was callous and incessant," Justice Muzofa said in her judgment. The judge ruled that the murder was aggravated because the victim was over the age of 70. "It is highly aggravating that the accused killed his father, an octogenarian. Instead of protecting his aged father as is expected of children, he was the villain," she said. The court heard that Chirongoma returned home and became enraged after finding church members gathered with his father. According to evidence presented during the trial, he accused his father of being "the devil incarnate" and blamed him for years of family misfortunes, including illnesses and other unexplained problems, alleging that the elderly man practised witchcraft. Witnesses testified that church members fled the homestead as Chirongoma armed himself with wooden logs and repeatedly assaulted his father. A man who attempted to intervene was also attacked and knocked unconscious. A post-mortem examination found that the 86-year-old died from an epidural haemorrhage and haemorrhagic shock resulting from multiple injuries to the head, torso and limbs. Chirongoma denied the murder during the trial, claiming he had been at work when the attack occurred. However, Justice Muzofa rejected his alibi after finding significant contradictions in his testimony. "Lies have short legs," the judge remarked while assessing his evidence. The court also admitted a warned and cautioned statement in which Chirongoma confessed to the killing. "I admit to the charge levelled against me that I murdered my father by assaulting him with wooden logs," the statement read. Justice Muzofa ruled that the confession was supported by both the medical evidence and witness testimony presented before the court. During the proceedings, Chirongoma's mother, Makaita Chirongoma, told the court that her son genuinely believed his father was responsible for the family's problems through alleged witchcraft. Justice Muzofa described the mother as being "obviously torn between two", saying she had suffered the devastating loss of both her husband and, effectively, her son through his criminal actions. While acknowledging that the family genuinely held beliefs in witchcraft, the judge stressed that such beliefs could never justify taking another person's life. "Even if he was a witch, an eye for an eye approach is not justified at law; it will certainly make the whole world blind," she said. "The right to life protected in our Constitution is not for the perfect human being. That right is for everyone by virtue of being a human being." In mitigation, the court accepted that the family's deeply held belief in witchcraft had influenced Chirongoma's actions. Justice Muzofa said that without that mitigating factor, a sentence closer to 25 years' imprisonment would have been appropriate. She ultimately imposed the statutory minimum sentence of 20 years in prison for the aggravated murder. Man jailed for killing father over witchcraft

CAPE TOWN – Hundreds of Zimbabwean nationals have sought refuge at the Zimbabwean Consulate in Cape Town as anxiety grows ahead of Tuesday's unofficial deadline issued by anti-immigrant groups demanding that undocumented foreign nationals leave South Africa. More than 500 Zimbabweans are reportedly sheltering at the consulate and in surrounding areas while awaiting government-assisted repatriation to Zimbabwe. With limited space at the diplomatic mission, many have been forced to sleep outdoors as they wait for transport home. The influx comes amid fears of planned nationwide demonstrations by anti-immigrant groups, which have called for undocumented migrants to leave the country. The planned protests have heightened concerns among foreign nationals, many of whom fear a repeat of previous outbreaks of xenophobic violence that have targeted migrant communities in South Africa. Although South African authorities have condemned vigilantism and vowed to uphold the rule of law, many Zimbabweans say they remain fearful that the demonstrations could trigger attacks regardless of whether individuals are legally documented or not. Zimbabwean officials at the Cape Town mission are continuing to process citizens seeking voluntary repatriation, while humanitarian organisations are providing food, drinking water and other basic necessities to those gathered outside the consulate. Some of the returnees told officials they had decided to leave South Africa voluntarily because of growing uncertainty over their safety and livelihoods. The latest developments come as increasing numbers of Zimbabweans continue returning home through the Beitbridge Border Post, with the Zimbabwean Government working alongside humanitarian partners to facilitate transport and reintegration for vulnerable returnees. Officials have appealed for calm and urged Zimbabwean nationals in South Africa to avoid panic, follow lawful procedures and seek assistance through the country's diplomatic missions where necessary. Meanwhile, South African police have reiterated that they will maintain law and order during any planned demonstrations and warned that anyone engaging in violence, intimidation or acts of vigilantism will face the full force of the law. The situation continues to be closely monitored by both Zimbabwean and South African authorities as preparations are made to assist citizens wishing to return home safely. Zimbabweans at Cape Town Consulate

HARARE – A conductor employed by Bolt Cutter Bus Company, which operates the Harare–Mudzi route, has been arrested following the alleged assault of two passengers in an incident that was captured on video and widely circulated on social media. The alleged assault reportedly occurred on June 25, 2026, at Musami Cross in the Domborembudzi area of Murehwa District, sparking public outrage after footage of the confrontation went viral online. Police sources said the conductor later surrendered himself to authorities and is assisting with ongoing investigations. Initial investigations indicate that the altercation began after the two passengers allegedly demanded a refund upon discovering that the bus had no available seats despite having paid for transport. Contrary to widespread claims on social media that the victims were secondary school students, sources close to the investigation said the two passengers are believed to be artisanal miners from Makaha in Mudzi District. Authorities have not yet released the identities of either the suspect or the victims, and no formal charges had been announced at the time of publication. The viral video has reignited debate over passenger safety and the conduct of public transport crews, with many Zimbabweans calling for stricter enforcement of regulations governing the country's commuter and long-distance transport operators. In a statement, Bolt Cutter Bus Company distanced itself from the alleged actions of its employee, condemning the incident and pledging full cooperation with law enforcement agencies. "Bolt Cutter Bus Company strongly condemns any form of violence or misconduct involving our employees. We are cooperating fully with the relevant authorities as investigations continue," the company said. The company added that it does not condone behaviour that endangers passengers or undermines public confidence in its transport services. Passengers' rights advocates say transport operators have a duty to provide a safe travelling environment and to resolve disputes professionally, particularly where issues such as overbooking or refunds arise. The incident has also renewed calls for public transport operators to strengthen staff training in customer service and conflict resolution to prevent similar confrontations. Police are continuing with investigations, and the conductor is expected to appear in court once the inquiry is complete. Members of the public have been urged to allow the legal process to take its course and to avoid circulating unverified information regarding the identities of those involved. Bolt Cutter bus conductor arrested

This week, we continue featuring some common indigenous fruits. In Shona, there’s a proverb that goes, “Kusaziva Kufa….”……. Some months ago, I shared insights about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It was related to human interactions. My childhood PTSD emanated from interacting with an indigenous fruit called Matamba. The experience was so nasty that whenever I see Matamba, I get goosebumps. Little did I know that they must never be eaten until they are completely ripe. What’s your experience of eating Matamba? Hit our comments section and let’s feature your experience. Matamba, also known as the monkey orange (Strychnos spinosa), is a highly nutritious indigenous African fruit. The monkey orange, a spiny shrub or small deciduous tree, is widespread, growing in woodlands, rocky areas, and along streams at a wide range of altitudes. The tree can be propagated from seed, but it takes a long time to bear fruit. Several species of Strychnos grow in Zimbabwe, but some are poisonous. All species have round fruit with a hard outer shell that turns yellow when ripe, between March and August. The seeds are toxic, and only the fruit pulp should be eaten. The larger-fruited species produce fruit with a soft pulp with a sweet, apple-like flavour. The pulp is eaten fresh or dried and is often used to flavour porridge. The dried shells of the fruit are used as ornaments and for making musical instruments. It is your dietary fiber and essential minerals like potassium. The succulent, slightly sour pulp is rich in vitamin C. What health benefits can be derived from Matamba? Let’s walk together: Antioxidant & Antimicrobial: The fruit contains phenolic compounds that act as strong antioxidants. These help protect your body's cells from damage and offer natural antimicrobial properties. Digestive Health: The fruit's dietary fiber supports healthy digestion, and traditional healers often use parts of the plant to manage general stomach discomfort. Please note that only ripe fruits should be used. Traditional “red bull”: Matamba works wonders for those who require quick energy on a Monday like this! It works like Red Bull and other popular energy drinks, but without harm to your internal organs. Traditional Remedies: In various local African traditions, extracts from the tree (including roots and bark) have been used to manage ailments ranging from malaria to sexually transmitted infections. The green fruits are used in traditional medicine as a snakebite antidote, and the roots are used to treat fever. The fruit juice is used as a traditional treatment for eye infections in livestock. Important Safety Note: While the sweet, ripe pulp is safe and widely consumed, the unripe fruit and the seeds contain toxic alkaloids, including trace amounts of strychnine. Always ensure the fruit is fully ripe, and avoid chewing or swallowing the seeds. This was the reason for my childhood PTSD. The incident was not fatal, but it may affect future generations if they remain ignorant. In an effort to promote the Heritage-based curriculum, there must be a deliberate Government programme to sensitise our children by growing clearly labelled indigenous fruit trees in urban environments, including schools, hospitals, libraries, and public parks. Disclaimer: While Matamba provides excellent nutritional value, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before relying on plant remedies for specific medical conditions. Dr Precious Sibiya, a mother, sister, daughter, friend, and so much more. She 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. Matamba fruit benefits

BEITBRIDGE – At least 26,000 undocumented Zimbabweans have returned from South Africa since late May as the neighbouring country intensifies immigration enforcement ahead of a deadline for undocumented foreign nationals to leave or regularise their stay. Official figures released by authorities show that 25,966 Zimbabweans returned between May 28 and June 22, 2026, with 24,211 making their own way home through the Beitbridge Border Post, while 1,755 vulnerable returnees were assisted by the Zimbabwean Government through the Beitbridge Reception Centre. Government officials say efforts are underway to ensure returnees are safely transported to their home provinces and reintegrated into their communities. Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland South, Albert Nguluvhe, welcomed the repatriation programme, saying the Government was working with partners to support those returning. "I am happy these returnees are not just being dumped in Beitbridge but are being assisted by Government and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to go to their respective provinces. Let us welcome our brothers and sisters with open hands," Nguluvhe said. He added that some returning families had raised concerns over school placements and tuition fees for their children. "Some parents are worried that their children will not get places at school and will not have money for fees, but I have assured them that I will engage the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education so that the children can be accommodated," he said. According to officials at the Beitbridge Reception Centre, the Government-assisted group included 406 adult men, 581 adult women, and 767 children, comprising accompanied and unaccompanied minors. Social Welfare Superintendent Nobuhle Ncube said the majority of returnees originated from Harare and Mashonaland West provinces. She said the reception centre was experiencing resource constraints as the number of arrivals continued to increase. "Government has assisted 1,755 people since May 28. We have a large kitchen, but we lack the resources and manpower to prepare meals. Some of the returnees are young children who require hot meals such as porridge in the mornings," Ncube said. She said the International Organization for Migration (IOM) was supporting the operation by providing food vouchers and transport assistance. Regional Immigration Officer Joshua Chibundu said Zimbabwean authorities continued to facilitate the smooth return of citizens through Beitbridge. "We do not turn away anyone who comes back. We sometimes verify nationality, but all Zimbabwean citizens are welcomed home. So far, 24,211 undocumented Zimbabweans have self-repatriated," he said. In a statement issued on June 21, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works appealed for additional support from development partners, churches, non-governmental organisations, humanitarian agencies, and the private sector to strengthen reintegration efforts. "Relevant departments have been activated to receive returnees at the border and within communities. The response requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach," the ministry said. One returnee, who requested anonymity, said deteriorating conditions and safety concerns in South Africa had forced his family to return after 13 years. "I can do any job and that is how I survived in South Africa. But things have become very difficult, especially in Cape Town. We decided to come back to keep our children safe," he said. The increase in voluntary returns comes as South Africa continues tightening immigration enforcement, prompting many undocumented Zimbabweans to return home while Government agencies prepare to assist with their reintegration. Undocumented Zimbabweans return from South Africa