Transport and Infrastructure Development Minister Felix Mhona has hailed ongoing efforts to recapitalise the National Railways of Zimbabwe, describing the programme as a critical step toward strengthening Zimbabwe's transport network, boosting trade efficiency, and supporting long-term economic growth. Speaking at the Ninth Session of the Line Minister's Public Entities Corporate Governance Oversight Meeting in Bulawayo on Saturday, Mhona said restoring the railway operator's capacity remains essential to reducing pressure on roads, lowering logistics costs, and improving the movement of goods across the country. The meeting brought together boards and management teams from entities under the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development to review performance, strengthen accountability, and reinforce corporate governance standards. Mhona acknowledged that NRZ continues to face significant financial and operational challenges but said efforts to revive the rail operator are gathering pace through collaboration with the Mutapa Investment Fund. "NRZ continues to face capacity and financial constraints. In light of these challenges, it is imperative that we sustain and deepen our engagements aimed at supporting the entity's recapitalisation agenda," Mhona said. "I wish to acknowledge the commendable efforts being undertaken by NRZ, in collaboration with Mutapa Investment Fund, to mobilise resources and strategic partnerships." Under the Resource Financed Infrastructure (RFI) model, the Mutapa Investment Fund is leading a US$400 million railway rehabilitation and recapitalisation programme aimed at restoring operational efficiency and increasing freight-handling capacity. The investment package includes: US$120 million for railway track rehabilitation. US$100 million for signalling systems, communications infrastructure, and ICT upgrades. Additional funding for rolling stock rehabilitation and operational improvements. The programme is expected to shift significant volumes of bulk freight from road to rail, reducing road maintenance costs and improving transport efficiency nationwide. Loan repayments under the financing arrangement are expected to be linked to cargo volumes transported on revitalised rail corridors. Priority routes identified for rehabilitation include: Harare – Mutare – Machipanda Border Post corridor Harare – Bulawayo – Rutenga railway line These corridors are regarded as strategic trade routes linking Zimbabwe to regional and international markets. Mhona also highlighted the importance of cross-border railway developments aimed at improving regional integration and trade connectivity. Among the projects under consideration are: The Ponta Techobanine Railway Project involves Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Botswana. The Lion's Den-Kafue Rail Link, which will connect Zimbabwe's rail network to Zambia. According to Mhona, these projects will strengthen the North-South transport corridor and create more efficient links to regional markets. The minister said the proposed rail links would improve access to markets in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Angola through Zambia, enhancing Zimbabwe's position as a regional logistics and transport hub. The rail modernisation drive forms part of broader government efforts to improve infrastructure, facilitate trade, and stimulate economic growth through more efficient transport systems. NRZ recapitalisation

A bitter family dispute has erupted over the future of the legendary Khiama Boys brand, with the widow of late sungura music icon Nicholas Zakaria accusing a nephew of taking control of the group's legacy without the family's approval. Zakaria, affectionately known as "Madzibaba," died on December 11, 2025, at the age of 69, following complications related to diabetes. His death marked the end of an era for Zimbabwean sungura music, leaving behind a rich catalogue of hits and a band that shaped generations of musicians. However, just months after his passing, divisions have emerged within the family over who has the right to carry forward the Khiama Boys name. The conflict centres on the formation of the Khiama Boys Legacy Band by Zakaria's nephew, Lazarus Zakaria. The new outfit was launched approximately six months after the musician's death, sparking objections from the late artist's widow, Margaret Chiroro, popularly known as Margaret Gweshe. Speaking from her Chitungwiza home, Chiroro expressed shock at the development and accused Lazarus of misleading the public regarding his relationship with the late musician. "I was surprised to hear that there is a new group called Khiama Boys Legacy Band led by our nephew, Lazarus Zakaria," she said. "Lazarus is not Madzibaba's son, as he has been claiming to the public. He is actually the son of Madzibaba's sister and only uses the Zakaria surname through his mother's family." Chiroro said the decision to revive the Khiama Boys brand was made without consulting the immediate family and questioned the legitimacy of the project. According to the widow, Lazarus recruited several former band members whom Nicholas Zakaria had allegedly dismissed during his lifetime. "He did not seek my blessing when he assembled a band largely composed of people who were fired by Madzibaba," she said. The dispute has also reopened questions about ownership of the Khiama Boys brand, one of the most recognised names in Zimbabwean sungura music. Chiroro maintains that she played a key role in establishing the group alongside her husband during its formative years. "By the way, Madzibaba and I formed Khiama Boys when we were performing at Bhora Growth Point alongside Teneyi Chikupo and Alick Macheso," she said. "I was a singer and dancer, and I helped my husband compose many of the songs that made him famous." The widow has threatened legal action to stop Lazarus from using the Khiama Boys' name and performing songs associated with the late musician's catalogue. She further claimed that Nicholas Zakaria had identified other relatives, including Mathew Zakaria and Godknows Landirani, as individuals he trusted to continue his musical legacy. Beyond the dispute over the band, Chiroro also alleged that Lazarus failed to account for condolence funds collected during the funeral and disappeared without presenting a financial report to the family. The disagreement has also highlighted broader tensions within the extended family, with Chiroro alleging that some decisions, including memorial arrangements, were made without her consent. When contacted for comment, Lazarus Zakaria declined to respond to the allegations. "Haa, I can't comment on that," he said. The dispute leaves uncertainty hanging over the future of the Khiama Boys brand and raises broader questions about succession, intellectual property rights, and legacy management in Zimbabwe's music industry. Nicholas Zakaria

TSHOLOTSHO – ZANU-PF has secured victory in all three wards contested in the Tsholotsho Rural District Council by-elections held on Saturday, 20 June, according to official results released by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC). The ruling party successfully retained Ward 1 and Ward 21, while also winning Ward 10 in a contest that included opposition party ZAPU and an independent candidate. The results reinforce ZANU-PF's dominance in the Tsholotsho area, with the party recording comfortable winning margins across all three wards. ZANU-PF Retains Ward 1 In Ward 1, ZANU-PF candidate Lindiwe Mkwananzi defeated independent challenger Solani Mhilo after polling 471 votes against 251. Ward Elections Officer Hlabangana Doli declared Mkwananzi duly elected following the completion of vote counting. A total of seven ballots were rejected, while voter turnout stood at 45.4 percent. Ward 1 Results Lindiwe Mkwananzi (ZANU-PF): 471 votes Solani Mhilo (Independent): 251 votes Rejected ballots: 7 Voter turnout: 45.4% Mvundla Wins Ward 21 In Ward 21, ZANU-PF's Phillip Mvundla secured a decisive victory over independent candidate Marx Sibanda. Mvundla received 512 votes compared to Sibanda's 236 votes. The result was announced by Ward Elections Officer Thembenhle Khumalo. Only three ballots were rejected, while turnout was recorded at 41.1 percent. Ward 21 Results Phillip Mvundla (ZANU-PF): 512 votes Marx Sibanda (Independent): 236 votes Rejected ballots: 3 Voter turnout: 41.1% ZANU-PF Dominates Ward 10 The largest victory margin came in Ward 10, where ZANU-PF candidate Simbisai Ndlovu won convincingly in a three-way race. Ndlovu polled 802 votes, comfortably ahead of Washington Mchulikanisi Ncube of ZAPU, who garnered 183 votes. Independent candidate Ntando Siziba finished third with 67 votes. Ward Elections Officer Tito Sialuya officially declared Ndlovu the winner. Ward 10 Results Simbisai Ndlovu (ZANU-PF): 802 votes Washington Mchulikanisi Ncube (ZAPU): 183 votes Ntando Siziba (Independent): 67 votes Rejected ballots: 15 Voter turnout: 37.7% Turnout Remains Moderate Voter turnout across the three wards ranged between 37.7 percent and 45.4 percent, reflecting moderate participation in the local authority by-elections. The results mean ZANU-PF maintains control of all three wards, while opposition and independent candidates failed to make gains in the contests. The by-elections were conducted under the supervision of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, which is responsible for administering elections and announcing official results. Tsholotsho by-elections

HARARE – A 23-year-old Harare man has been sentenced to two years in prison after he was convicted of impersonating Deputy Chief Justice Paddington Garwe in a bid to obtain confidential recruitment information from officials at the Judicial Service Commission (JSC). Martin Rashai was found guilty of impersonating a peace officer after posing as the country's second-highest-ranking judge and using WhatsApp messages to contact senior JSC officials regarding recruitment processes and job vacancies. According to court proceedings, the impersonation began on May 5 when JSC deputy head of human resources Tafadzwa Sekeni and human resources officer Abigail Ziti received WhatsApp messages from a mobile number purporting to belong to Deputy Chief Justice Garwe. The sender requested information relating to interviews for information technology officer positions and also sought details concerning a transport officer vacancy at the Kwekwe Magistrates' Court. The requests immediately raised concerns among the officials, who found it unusual that a senior Constitutional Court judge would personally seek updates on relatively junior recruitment matters through a messaging platform. Despite their suspicions, the individual continued engaging with the officials and claimed he was operating from the Constitutional Court when asked to verify his identity. Believing she was communicating with the Deputy Chief Justice, Ziti initially shared some of the requested information. Further doubts emerged when attempts to contact the sender by telephone proved unsuccessful. Court records show the suspect insisted that all communication be conducted via text messages and repeatedly maintained that he was Deputy Chief Justice Garwe. Subsequent verification checks by the Judicial Service Commission revealed that no such inquiries had been authorised and that the mobile number being used did not correspond with any official contact details associated with the Deputy Chief Justice. The matter escalated after officials discovered that both Sekeni and Ziti had been contacted by the same number. The issue was reported internally to JSC Deputy Secretary Kumbirai Katsande before being referred to police investigators. Investigators from the Criminal Investigations Department uncovered that Rashai had previously applied for employment with the Judicial Service Commission. Police then obtained a warrant compelling telecommunications provider NetOne to release subscriber information linked to the number used in the impersonation attempt. The records confirmed that the SIM card was registered in Rashai's own name. Armed with the information, detectives tracked him to Hurungwe, where he was arrested. The court ultimately convicted Rashai of impersonating a peace officer and sentenced him to two years' imprisonment. Authorities say the case demonstrates the growing risks posed by digital impersonation schemes and highlights the importance of verification procedures within public institutions. The incident also serves as a warning against the misuse of social media and messaging platforms to impersonate senior government officials for personal gain. Deputy Chief Justice impersonation

HARARE – The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has intensified a nationwide compliance operation targeting fuel service stations accused of charging motorists above approved fuel prices, following a recent reduction in pump prices. The regulator has deployed enhanced inspection teams across the country to monitor compliance and ensure fuel retailers adhere to officially gazetted prices. The move comes after ZERA lowered fuel prices effective 19 June 2026, bringing Diesel 50 down to US$1.99 per litre and Blend E20 petrol to US$1.98 per litre, marking the first time in several months that both fuel products have fallen below the US$2 threshold. Speaking on the latest enforcement exercise, ZERA Chief Executive Officer Eddington Mazambane said the authority had received reports that some fuel stations were continuing to charge consumers above the regulated maximum prices. "We have regional compliance officers who enforce issues related to pricing and fuel quality. They routinely conduct inspections to ensure compliance," said Mazambane. "However, following reports that some service stations are selling fuel above the announced prices, we have intensified our monitoring efforts." Mazambane warned that operators found violating fuel pricing regulations would face prosecution and other regulatory sanctions. "We are going to enforce compliance with fuel prices and prosecute those charging above regulated prices," he said. Beyond pricing compliance, ZERA inspectors are also assessing fuel quality standards, storage facilities, and operational compliance at service stations nationwide. The authority periodically reviews fuel prices based on international oil market movements, freight costs, exchange rate considerations, and other economic factors. Fuel retailers are legally required to sell petroleum products at or below the maximum prices announced by the regulator. Industry analysts say the recent reduction in fuel prices should provide some relief to consumers and businesses grappling with high transport and operational costs. Lower fuel prices often have a positive impact on the broader economy by reducing transportation expenses, which influence the cost of goods and services. ZERA has encouraged members of the public to report service stations that charge above approved prices or engage in other irregular practices. Authorities say consumer participation is critical in helping regulators identify non-compliant operators and maintain transparency in the fuel sector. The crackdown forms part of broader government efforts to improve accountability, consumer protection, and regulatory oversight within Zimbabwe's petroleum industry. With compliance teams now active across all provinces, fuel retailers are expected to face increased inspections over the coming weeks. Officials say the objective is to ensure that motorists, transport operators, and businesses fully benefit from the latest fuel price reductions without being subjected to unfair pricing practices. ZERA fuel price crackdown

Zimbabwe is mourning the death of veteran liberation fighter, senior politician and diplomat Dr Victor Matemadanda, who passed away on Saturday night while serving as Zimbabwe’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Mozambique. At the time of his death, Dr Matemadanda was also concurrently accredited to the Kingdom of Eswatini, representing Zimbabwe's interests in two strategically important Southern African countries. His passing marks the end of a long career in public service that spanned the liberation struggle, government, party leadership, and diplomacy. Dr Matemadanda was a prominent figure in Zimbabwe’s political and diplomatic landscape for decades. Before his diplomatic appointment to Mozambique, he served in several high-profile positions, including: Former Deputy Minister of Defence and War Veterans Affairs Former ZANU-PF National Political Commissar Former Secretary for Veterans of the Liberation Struggle in the ZANU-PF Politburo Veteran of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle Ambassador to Mozambique and Eswatini His appointment to Maputo reflected the government's confidence in his experience and understanding of regional affairs. During his diplomatic tenure, Dr Matemadanda played a key role in strengthening bilateral relations between Zimbabwe and Mozambique, promoting cross-border trade, economic cooperation, and regional integration initiatives under the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Beyond government and diplomacy, Dr Matemadanda was widely known for his advocacy on behalf of war veterans. Throughout his political career, he remained closely involved in issues affecting former liberation fighters and frequently engaged government structures on matters relating to veterans' welfare, recognition, and empowerment. His influence within ZANU-PF and among liberation war veterans made him one of the most recognisable political figures associated with the country's liberation legacy. Following news of his death, messages of condolence began emerging from political leaders, government officials, diplomats, and liberation war veterans. Many described Dr Matemadanda as a dedicated patriot who devoted his life to serving Zimbabwe both at home and abroad. A senior official familiar with his diplomatic work said Dr Matemadanda had been instrumental in advancing Zimbabwe's regional interests. "Ambassador Matemadanda’s departure leaves a significant void in our diplomatic missions. He was deeply committed to strengthening Zimbabwe's relations with neighbouring countries and advancing the country's interests across the region." His death is expected to be felt across diplomatic circles, particularly in Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Eswatini, where he maintained strong working relationships with government officials and regional stakeholders. The Government of Zimbabwe is expected to announce funeral arrangements and any official honours that may be accorded to the late diplomat in recognition of his service to the nation. As Zimbabwe reflects on his legacy, Dr Matemadanda will be remembered for his contributions as a liberation war veteran, political leader, government official, and diplomat who dedicated much of his life to public service. Victor Matemadanda

KANSAS CITY, Missouri – Curaçao goalkeeper Eloy Room produced one of the greatest goalkeeping performances in FIFA World Cup history on Saturday, making 15 saves to help his nation secure a historic 0-0 draw against tournament favourites Ecuador. The result earned Curaçao its first-ever point at a FIFA World Cup and marked a remarkable turnaround for Room, who conceded seven goals in his side's opening 7-1 defeat to Germany just one week earlier. The 37-year-old shot-stopper equalled the men's World Cup record for saves in a single match, matching the mark set by Tim Howard during the United States' clash against Belgium at the 2014 World Cup. "It's going to be an insane memory," Room said after the match. "You don't think about it when you're doing it, but it's something I'll definitely look back on. For me, as a goalkeeper, this was almost a perfect game." Ecuador dominated proceedings throughout the match, registering 28 shots and forcing Room into save after save as Curaçao spent much of the contest defending deep inside their own half. The goalkeeper set the tone early, denying veteran striker Enner Valencia from a clear scoring opportunity in the third minute before producing another crucial stop from the Ecuador captain later in the first half. The pressure intensified after the break as Ecuador repeatedly threatened through Valencia, Gonzalo Plata, and substitute Kevin Rodríguez. Despite generating more than three expected goals (xG), Ecuador failed to find a breakthrough against a determined Curaçao side inspired by Room's heroics. The performance also established a new benchmark for the most saves recorded by a goalkeeper who kept a clean sheet in a World Cup match. Room, who previously won the MLS Cup with Columbus Crew and currently plays for Miami FC, joked that his latest heroics deserved permanent recognition back home. "I think I need a statue in Curaçao now," he said with a smile. Among the spectators witnessing the historic performance were King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima, who attended the match in Kansas City. Curaçao is a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, making the Dutch monarch the island's head of state. "They were even dancing in the locker room to our music," Room revealed. "That's unreal that they witnessed this game." Curaçao coach Dick Advocaat praised his players for their resilience after the heavy defeat against Germany. "You know how far we've come, basically from nothing," Advocaat said. "To come here and play in front of 60,000 people and get a result like this fills us with pride." The draw leaves both Curaçao and Ecuador needing positive results in their remaining group matches to keep their knockout-stage hopes alive. Ecuador now faces Germany in a must-win encounter, while Curaçao takes on the Ivory Coast, seeking another upset. Regardless of what happens next, Saturday's result has already secured a place in World Cup history for the Caribbean nation and its record-equalling goalkeeper. For Room, the performance was not just about individual records but about putting Curaçao on the global football map. "We did it as a team," he said. "The defenders, midfielders, striker everyone contributed. This point belongs to all of us." Eloy Room World Cup record

MUTARE – Concerns over transparency and accountability in the disposal of municipal assets have surfaced within Mutare City Council, with councillors accusing management of disregarding recommendations made by elected officials during auction processes. The concerns were raised during a recent full council meeting where councillors questioned the procedures governing the sale of vehicles, equipment, and other council assets declared surplus to operational requirements. Several councillors expressed frustration over what they described as a lack of meaningful oversight in decisions involving the disposal of public property, warning that the current system could undermine public confidence in local government administration. Ward 15 Councillor Sekai Cathrine Mukodza said councillors had previously conducted inspections of assets earmarked for auction and submitted recommendations on how the items should be handled. However, she claimed some assets were later sold despite councillors advising otherwise. "At times, we feel our opinion does not matter at all," Mukodza told the meeting. "Last time we visited the place to see the items that were supposed to be sold, we gave our input, but as soon as we left the place, the items were sold against our advice." Her remarks highlight growing concerns among elected representatives about whether council management is giving sufficient consideration to recommendations made by councillors before municipal assets are auctioned. The concerns have reignited debate over governance practices within local authorities and the need for stricter controls when disposing of public assets. Councillors argued that municipal property belongs to residents and ratepayers, making transparency and accountability essential throughout the disposal process. They warned that inadequate consultation and oversight could expose councils to allegations of mismanagement and reduce public trust in local government institutions. Responding to the concerns, Mutare Mayor Simon Chabuka acknowledged the need for clearer guidelines and stronger approval mechanisms before auctions are conducted. "I think we need to amend the resolution made to this regard," Chabuka said. "It has to be clearly stated that before an auction, everything must be agreed." The mayor's proposal is expected to pave the way for a review of the council's asset disposal framework, with councillors seeking formal guarantees that all items identified for auction receive proper scrutiny and approval before being sold. The debate comes at a time when local authorities across Zimbabwe are facing increasing scrutiny over governance, procurement processes, and the management of public resources. Good governance advocates have consistently called for transparent disposal procedures to ensure councils obtain fair value for public assets while protecting ratepayer interests. Councillors say strengthening approval processes would help eliminate disputes, improve accountability, and ensure that decisions regarding council property are made collectively and transparently. The matter is expected to remain on the council agenda as discussions continue over possible amendments to existing resolutions governing auctions and the disposal of municipal assets. For residents and ratepayers, the outcome could play a significant role in improving confidence in how public resources are managed and protected by local authorities. Mutare City Council asset auctions

HARARE – Netflix drama series The Polygamist, adapted from a novel by acclaimed Zimbabwean author Sue Nyathi, has become one of the biggest television success stories of 2026 after climbing to the third spot among the world's most-watched shows on the streaming platform. The remarkable achievement has placed Zimbabwean storytelling firmly on the global entertainment map and highlighted the growing international demand for African-produced content. Production company Stained Glass TV confirmed the milestone this week, celebrating the show's rapid rise across multiple continents. “At this point, we're running out of ways to say THANK YOU. The Polygamist isn't just topping charts at home anymore. We're now the No. 3 show globally on Netflix and the No. 1 show in 16 countries across Africa, Europe, the Caribbean, and Asia,” the company said in a statement shared on social media. The drama, which premiered globally on Netflix on June 12, is based on Nyathi's bestselling novel and follows the complicated life of businessman Jonasi Gomora, whose secret relationships with multiple women threaten to destroy his family, reputation, and business empire. Entertainment analysts say the show's success demonstrates how African stories are increasingly attracting audiences beyond the continent. South African filmmaker and producer Mandla N described the achievement as a landmark moment for African creatives, saying the series proves locally rooted stories can compete on the global stage. According to reports, he praised the production for helping reshape international perceptions of African television and storytelling. The series has reportedly reached the number one position in several countries, including South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Jamaica, Romania, and the Bahamas, while maintaining strong performances across Europe, North America, and the Middle East. Viewers around the world have taken to social media platforms to discuss the show's dramatic plot twists, complex characters, and high-stakes family conflicts. On online discussion forums, international viewers described the series as "messy but good," with many praising its compelling storytelling and addictive narrative. Others said they binge-watched all 22 episodes within days of its release, helping fuel word-of-mouth promotion across multiple markets. The show's popularity has also sparked renewed interest in Sue Nyathi's original novel, with many viewers seeking out the book that inspired the hit Netflix adaptation. For Zimbabwe's literary and creative sectors, the success of The Polygamist represents a significant breakthrough. The adaptation has introduced millions of international viewers to a story rooted in Southern African experiences while showcasing the ability of Zimbabwean writers to create narratives with global appeal. Industry observers say the achievement could open doors for more Zimbabwean books, films, and television projects to reach international audiences through major streaming platforms. As The Polygamist continues climbing global rankings, its success stands as one of the strongest examples yet of African content breaking through international barriers and competing with some of the world's biggest productions. The Polygamist Netflix

MOGODITSHANE, BOTSWANA – Authorities in Botswana have appealed for calm after violent clashes between local residents and Zimbabwean nationals in Mogoditshane left several people injured and heightened fears of escalating xenophobic tensions. The disturbances, which began over the weekend in the Sentomole ward of Mogoditshane, have prompted increased police monitoring amid concerns that further violence could erupt if tensions are not contained. According to police, the unrest started on Saturday at Manyanda Bar following an altercation involving groups of Botswana citizens and Zimbabwean nationals. Mogoditshane Acting Police Station Commander Mompoloki Ramaphoi said preliminary investigations indicate that a group of Zimbabwean nationals allegedly locked several Batswana patrons inside the establishment before assaulting them. "It is alleged that a group of Zimbabwean nationals locked Batswana inside the bar and assaulted them. Stones were allegedly thrown during the altercation, resulting in damage to the bar's windows," Ramaphoi said. The incident resulted in property damage at the popular entertainment venue, with police opening a case of malicious damage to property. No arrests had been made at the time of reporting, as investigations continue. Police said tensions escalated on Sunday when groups of local residents allegedly moved through parts of Mogoditshane targeting foreign nationals, particularly Zimbabweans, in retaliation for the previous day's events. One Zimbabwean man reportedly sustained serious injuries during the attacks and was rushed to Princess Marina Hospital, where he was admitted for medical treatment after losing consciousness. Authorities also reported another violent confrontation at Manyanda Bar later on Sunday night. "Police responded promptly and rescued two men who had sustained serious injuries during the incident," Ramaphoi said. The victims were identified as Zimbabwean nationals who were allegedly attacked by a group of local residents. Law enforcement authorities have urged both citizens and foreign nationals to avoid acts of retaliation and allow the justice system to address any criminal allegations. "We are appealing to both Batswana and Zimbabwean nationals to exercise restraint and maintain peace before the situation deteriorates further," Ramaphoi said. He warned against vigilante justice, stressing that criminal accusations should be investigated and prosecuted through lawful channels rather than through mob action. The clashes have sparked renewed concerns about relations between local communities and migrant populations in Botswana, particularly amid allegations linking some foreign nationals to criminal activities. Community leaders and civil society groups have previously warned that misinformation, economic pressures, and isolated criminal incidents can fuel hostility towards migrant communities if not addressed through dialogue and lawful processes. Botswana hosts thousands of Zimbabwean nationals who contribute to various sectors of the economy, including construction, agriculture, domestic work, and informal trade. Observers say the latest incidents underscore the need for stronger community engagement and conflict-resolution mechanisms to prevent isolated disputes from escalating into broader tensions affecting entire communities. Police have confirmed that investigations into all reported incidents remain ongoing. Authorities say additional security measures have been deployed in parts of Mogoditshane while law enforcement agencies continue monitoring the situation closely to prevent further outbreaks of violence. Residents have been urged to report criminal activities through official channels and refrain from spreading unverified information that could inflame tensions. Botswana Zimbabweans Mogoditshane clashes

Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Masvingo Province, Ezra Chadzamira, has issued a stern warning to ruling party members opposed to Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 (CAB3), saying there will be consequences once the legislative process is concluded. Addressing a ZANU PF Provincial Inter-District Meeting at Clovelly in Masvingo on Saturday, Chadzamira said party leadership was fully aware of activities by legislators and councillors allegedly working against the proposed constitutional amendments. He claimed that both he and the Minister of State for National Security, Lovemore Matuke, had access to reports detailing political activities taking place within the party, including meetings allegedly being held to oppose the Bill. Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 has generated significant debate across Zimbabwe. Supporters argue it is intended to improve governance structures, while critics contend that some of its provisions could fundamentally alter the country's constitutional framework. Among the controversial proposals are measures that critics say could extend the tenure of elected officials beyond current constitutional limits. Legal experts and civil society groups have questioned whether certain provisions can be implemented without a national referendum. Speaking to party members, Chadzamira accused some officials of publicly supporting party positions while privately participating in meetings aimed at undermining the amendment process. He urged party members to avoid attending unofficial gatherings and instead participate only in meetings sanctioned by recognised party structures. "I urge you to avoid these secret meetings and remain loyal to the party's official programmes. Once this process is completed, there will be consequences for those who have been working against it," Chadzamira said. The minister further claimed that security and party structures were closely monitoring political developments and activities within the province. In defending the proposed constitutional amendments, Chadzamira argued that developing countries often require longer policy implementation periods to achieve economic transformation and infrastructure development. He said nations with mature economies and established institutions can more easily accommodate frequent leadership transitions because their systems are already well developed. "Zimbabwe remains a developing nation and requires continuity to complete major development programmes. Countries with stronger economies and established systems can afford more frequent leadership changes because their institutions are already firmly established," he said. The remarks come amid growing political debate over Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3, which recently passed through the National Assembly and is expected to be considered by the Senate. Ezra Chadzamira Constitutional Amendment Bill 3

Zimbabwean motorists and businesses are set to benefit from lower fuel costs after the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) announced a reduction in both petrol and diesel prices, pushing pump prices below the US$2-per-litre mark for the first time in months. In a notice issued on Friday, Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) said the maximum retail price of diesel has been reduced from US$2.09 to US$1.99 per litre, while petrol will now retail at US$1.98 per litre, down from US$2.08. The revised prices took effect on 19 June 2026 and will remain in force for the next 14 days, in line with ZERA's regular fuel pricing review cycle. The latest adjustment represents a 10-cent reduction on both fuel products following several months during which petrol and diesel prices consistently remained above the US$2 threshold, largely due to global oil market trends and international freight costs. ZERA reviews fuel prices every two weeks using a pricing formula based on international landed costs, freight charges, and other market factors affecting the importation of petroleum products into Zimbabwe. The reduction is expected to provide some relief to consumers and businesses facing high operating costs. Fuel expenses have been a major factor behind increases in public transport fares, freight charges, and the prices of goods transported across the country. Commuter omnibus operators, cross-border transporters, and haulage companies have repeatedly pointed to rising fuel costs as one of the main drivers of transport-related price increases in recent months. In its statement, ZERA said government measures continue to help cushion consumers from the impact of global geopolitical developments that affect international energy markets. The regulator also reminded fuel operators that the current blending ratio remains at E20 and noted that service stations are permitted to sell fuel below the prescribed maximum prices where commercial conditions allow. Fuel retailers were further instructed to display pump prices prominently in accordance with existing fuel pricing regulations. ZERA fuel prices June 2026