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  • Beitbridge Woman Claims Decades of Torment from Alleged Goblins

    Goblins Have Tormented Her Since Childhood A 35-year-old woman from Beitbridge says she has endured years of suffering from what she believes are goblins allegedly linked to rituals performed by relatives when she was a child. Mazvita Marvelous Msavi, who appeared visibly distressed while recounting her experiences, said her ordeal began when she was about three years old after relatives reportedly consulted a traditional healer. “My ordeal started when my relatives went to a witch doctor. I was only three years old at the time,” Msavi said. She claimed that the healer allegedly provided several goblins that were meant to remain with members of the extended family. “The witch doctor gave them 10 goblins, which were supposed to stay at the homes of either my father’s or mother’s relatives,” she said. “Instead, five were assigned to me and the other five to my younger sister.” Msavi said the alleged entities have troubled her throughout her life, often appearing in different forms. “They torment me every day. From as early as six o’clock in the evening they begin to appear, sometimes disguising themselves as my relatives,” she said. She added that the experiences have left her living in constant fear and have severely affected her ability to sleep. “I live in constant fear because I never know when they will come. They disturb my sleep and my peace,” she said. Msavi also alleged that the disturbances became more intense during her menstrual cycle. “When I menstruate, they come to drink the blood. Even when I throw away my sanitary pads, they retrieve them to take the blood,” she claimed. According to Msavi, attempts to seek help from relatives have not been successful. She alleged that some family members are benefiting financially from the alleged goblins. “They are benefitting financially from the goblins, leaving me to suffer alone,” she said. Msavi further claimed that relatives destroyed important personal documents, including her academic certificates and identity papers. “They burnt my Ordinary Level and Advanced Level certificates, as well as my birth certificate and national ID card. They want me to remain a vessel for their goblins,” she alleged. Without these documents, she said it has been extremely difficult to find employment or build a stable life. “My life has become very difficult. I cannot find decent work and I struggle to survive,” she said. Msavi said she is currently homeless and survives through small-scale vending. She often sleeps at bus ranks in Beitbridge and said the alleged disturbances continue regardless of where she stays. “The goblins still follow me wherever I sleep and molest me. They are inside me — I cannot shake them off,” she said. Now desperate for help, Msavi said she hopes someone will assist her in finding relief from the experiences that she believes have affected her life for decades. “All I want now is help so that I can live a normal life like other people,” she said. Beitbridge goblins story

  • Moyo vs. Muchena: The Battle Over the "Imperial Presidency" and Amendment No. 3

    Prof Jonathan Moyo Harare, Zimbabwe- The discourse surrounding HB 1, 2026,  has reached a fever pitch following a sharp exchange between two influential figures. Professor Jonathan Moyo has dismissed claims by retired military top brass, led by Henry Muchena, who argue that shifting to a parliamentary election for the President dismantles the hard-won right of universal adult suffrage. Retired Air Vice-Marshal Muchena, representing a cohort of retired generals and senior civil servants, petitioned Parliament, arguing that the amendments undermine the people's electoral rights. Professor Moyo’s Rebuttal: Definition of Suffrage:  Moyo argues that universal adult suffrage is about the right to vote without discrimination (race, class, gender), not the mechanism (direct vs. indirect) of electing a head of state. Global Precedents: He notes that stable democracies like the UK, India, and South Africa use indirect systems where the head of government is elected by the legislature, asserting this does not inherently diminish democracy. The Diaspora Factor: Moyo contends the Bill actually expands  suffrage by proposing frameworks to include millions of Zimbabweans in the diaspora who are currently excluded from the direct ballot. A striking element of Moyo’s critique is his characterization of the current system as a "failed one-party relic." The 1987 Legacy: Moyo points out that the "Imperial Executive Presidency" was a product of the 1987 Unity Accord era under Robert Mugabe, designed to consolidate power and weaken the Judiciary and Parliament. The Irony of Activism: Moyo expressed bewilderment that pro-democracy activists who spent decades decrying the concentration of power in a single office are now defending that very structure against reforms that would arguably make the President more accountable to Parliament. While the Government maintains the Bill ensures "continuity and socioeconomic progress," the divide in interpretation remains stark: Perspective Argument Government / Moyo Dismantles the authoritarian imperial presidency; aligns elections with NDS2 goals; expands diaspora rights. Muchena / Analysts Dismantles the people's direct mandate; extends terms without a referendum; constitutes a "constitutional coup." A major legal sticking point is whether a referendum is required. Government legal advisors argue that because the Bill avoids Chapters 4 (Bill of Rights), 16 (Agricultural Land), and Section 328 (Amendment of the Constitution) , a simple parliamentary majority is sufficient. Critics, however, argue that changing the very nature of the executive's mandate fundamentally alters the spirit of the 2013 Constitution. Jonathan Moyo Henry Muchena Constitution Amendment 3

  • Zimbabwe Set for Landmark Public Hearings on Constitution Amendment No. 3 Bill

    Parliament of Zimbabwe, where the Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill will be debated following public consultations Harare, Zimbabwe- Parliament has officially announced a nationwide four-day window—running from March 30 to April 2, 2026—for citizens to participate in public hearings regarding the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment No. 3 Bill (H.B. 1, 2026) . The Bill, which was gazetted on February 17, proposes the most radical restructuring of the Zimbabwean State since the adoption of the 2013 Constitution. The Amendment No. 3 Bill seeks to significantly alter how the President is elected and how the electoral roll is managed. Indirect Presidential Election: A move to replace the direct "first-past-the-post" public vote with a parliamentary process for electing the President. Term Extensions: Proposing an extension of the presidential term from five to seven years. Absolute Majority Rule: Clause 3 mandates an absolute majority (>50%) for a win, with a run-off provision if no candidate meets the threshold. Voters' Roll Transfer: Moving the responsibility for voter registration and the maintenance of the voters' roll from the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC)  back to the Registrar-General’s Office. In compliance with Section 131 of the Constitution, Parliament must allow for a 90-day notice period and active public participation before the Bill is debated in either the Senate or the National Assembly. Channel Method of Submission Public Hearings Attend meetings in person at designated provincial venues (March 30 – April 2). Email Submissions Send written views to the official Parliament of Zimbabwe email address. Physical Deposit Box Located at the Old Parliament Building in Harare’s CBD. Venue Desks Special desks will be set up at all consultation venues for written entries. Consultation Schedule (Selected Venues) Date Province/Location Venue March 30 Harare Chitungwiza Aquatic Centre March 30 Bulawayo Bulawayo City Hall March 31 Harare Epworth Local Board / Harare City Centre April 1-2 National Gokwe, Kwekwe, Zvishavane, Gwanda, Hwange, Mutare, Bindura. These hearings are a constitutional prerequisite. Once completed, parliamentary committees will compile a report detailing public sentiment. This input will theoretically shape the debate when the Bill finally reaches the National Assembly floor. Proponents argue the changes will align election cycles with long-term economic goals, while legal observers note the potential for a massive shift in the country's political landscape.  Zimbabwe Constitution Amendment No. 3 Bill hearings

  • Harare Clearing Director in Court Over ZiG$400k ZIMRA Fraud Scheme

    Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) Harare, Zimbabwe- The director of a Harare-based freight clearing company, Lawrence Zifungo  (43), has appeared before the Harare Magistrates' Court facing allegations of orchestrating a sophisticated fraud scheme. The State contends that Zifungo prejudiced the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA)  of over ZiG$448,000 through a fictitious payment system involving compromised tax accounts. According to court papers, the alleged fraud began after Zifungo was engaged by Rosecraft Freight Private Limited  in 2023 to assist with customs clearance. Having been granted access to the company’s ZIMRA pre-payment credentials, Zifungo reportedly began a fraudulent campaign between January and August 2025. The Prosecution’s Case: Misrepresentation of Funds: Zifungo is alleged to have falsely represented that Rosecraft Freight had deposited ZiG$448,620 into a ZIMRA account held with BancABC. Internal Collusion: The State alleges that Zifungo worked in cahoots with unidentified ZIMRA employees who created fictitious entries in the tax authority's system. Unauthorized Clearance: These fraudulent entries enabled the clearance of imported goods despite the fact that no actual currency had been transferred to the tax collector. The scheme resulted in a total financial prejudice of ZiG$448,620 to the tax authority. Appearing before the magistrate this week, Zifungo was granted bail of US$300 and ordered to return to court for trial at a later date. ZIMRA authorities have confirmed that internal investigations are ongoing to identify and prosecute the staff members suspected of facilitating the "ghost payments." Lawrence Zifungo ZIMRA fraud case

  • Zimbabwe Retail Property Sector Attracts Growing Interest from Global Brands

    Highland Park shopping centre in Harare Zimbabwe’s retail property sector is experiencing rising interest from international brands seeking to enter or expand within the market, according to the fund manager of Tigere Real Estate Investment Trust . Speaking after the release of the company’s latest financial results, Tigere Property Fund director Brett Abrahamse said the firm is receiving frequent enquiries from global retailers looking for space in the country. “It’s amazing. I would say on a weekly basis we are getting contacted by a new international brand that is looking to either enquire for space or grow a business within them,” Abrahamse said in an interview with CapitalkFM. Abrahamse attributed the growing interest to improving macroeconomic conditions in Zimbabwe, particularly increased stability in currency markets. According to recent data, Zimbabwe’s annual inflation slowed to about 3.8 percent in February 2026, reflecting tighter fiscal and monetary coordination as well as improved policy discipline. The improved economic environment, Abrahamse said, has strengthened confidence among international retailers who are once again considering Zimbabwe as a viable investment destination. The availability of modern retail infrastructure has also played a significant role in attracting international brands. Tigere REIT owns several retail properties, including Highland Park, Chinamano Corner, and Greenfields Retail Centre. The company is also developing the Design Quarter, which is expected to open in the third quarter of 2026. Abrahamse said such developments are helping raise the standard of retail infrastructure in the country. “There’s a lot more space available in quality retail space, and that’s positive for the market. I think it lifts everyone’s game,” he said. Greenfields Retail Centre , which Tigere acquired in late 2025, has already reached full occupancy and is anchored by major retailers, including Spar, alongside outlets such as Hungry Lion and Spur. Tigere REIT has reported strong financial results, with real income rising to about US$2.3 million. The company’s net asset value currently stands at approximately US$60 million across five assets, while its market capitalisation has reached around US$100 million following recent property acquisitions. Lower operating expenses have also enabled the company to maintain steady dividend payments to investors. Tigere is targeting a net asset value of US$100 million by the end of the 2026 financial year and US$200 million by 2028. To support future growth, Tigere is expanding its investment portfolio beyond retail properties into light industrial and hospitality developments. New projects are planned in Kadoma, Gweru, and Bulawayo. In Bulawayo, the development will be undertaken in partnership with the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair. Abrahamse said the project could help stimulate investment in the city. “There hasn’t been much investment in Bulawayo over the last few years and we’re excited to hopefully provide a catalyst for more development there,” he said. Analysts say that if macroeconomic stability continues, Zimbabwe’s retail property sector could remain attractive to global brands seeking to tap into the country’s growing consumer market. Zimbabwe retail property market

  • Police Hunt Gweru Man Accused of Killing Wife in Mkoba

    Mkoba suburb in Gweru Police in Gweru are searching for a 37-year-old man suspected of murdering his wife in the high-density suburb of Mkoba. The suspect, identified as Nhlalo Darlington Baloyi, is alleged to have fatally assaulted his wife, Partricia Nyathi (32), at their home in Mkoba 4 on Monday last week. Police say Baloyi, an artisanal miner originally from Mkonto Village under Chief Ntabeni in Zhombe, allegedly attacked Nyathi after accusing her of infidelity. According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the suspect is believed to have fled after the incident and remains at large. Midlands provincial police spokesperson Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the case and appealed to members of the public for assistance in locating the suspect. Mahoko said Baloyi is a well-known artisanal miner who frequently operates in Shurugwi. “We are appealing to members of the public who might have information on the whereabouts of Nhlalo Darlington Baloyi to report at any police station or make use of our ZRP WhatsApp platform 0712800197,” Mahoko said. Police said Nyathi had been living with Baloyi at the Mkoba 4 residence since December 2025. On the day of the incident, she was reportedly doing laundry outside the house when an argument broke out between the couple. Baloyi allegedly accused Nyathi of being unfaithful during the confrontation. According to police, the suspect went into the house and returned carrying a vehicle shock absorber. However, Nyathi’s 13-year-old daughter, identified as Sibothabo Sibanda, reportedly intervened and stopped him from using it. Investigators say Baloyi then went back into the house and returned with a hammer. He allegedly struck Nyathi several times on the head with the hammer during the attack. The injuries proved fatal. Police said Baloyi fled the scene shortly after the incident and has not yet been apprehended. Authorities have urged anyone with information that could lead to his arrest to contact the police. The case has shocked residents in the Mkoba community, where neighbours say the couple had been living together for several months before the incident. Police investigations into the case are continuing. Police Gweru Mkoba wife murder

  • When it Gets Tough in business, don’t quit, Go Guerrilla Instead!

    Every day in Africa, the Zebra wakes up ready to outrun the fastest and hungriest Lion for survival. The Lion also wakes up early, ready to pounce on the slowest Zebra for its breakfast. Whether you are a Lion or a zebra, with each daybreak, you'd better be running! -------African saying. Why the Guerrilla Mindset? The world of business does not operate on an even playing field. There are rugged terrains, disruptions, valleys, and cliffs that the entrepreneur should navigate. The word “guerrilla” conjures rebellion, conflict, and insurgency. Put it next to “business”, “research”, “marketing”, “public relations or “selling”, a lot of people will ask “Huh?” “What did you say?” When you go guerrilla, you are rebelling against the conventional or the usual. When the classical formulas aren’t working or delivering, one should go the unconventional route. This is the road less travelled that Robert Frost was referring to in his famous poem “The Road Not Taken”. Contemporary businesses are fast going guerrilla as they scream and compete for attention. Formulaic textbook-based methodologies are fast losing out in favour of fresh approaches. The guerrilla mindset is not fixated on strait jackets. It breaks out of all established patterns and suggests newer, stranger, and sometimes preposterous ways of looking at things. In this article, when all things aren’t equal, I challenge the modern entrepreneur to embrace the guerrilla route. Guerrilla Warfare Tactics In guerrilla warfare, freedom fighters are aware that they are fewer in numbers than the conventional enemy armies. They are under- resourced and cannot compete on a plain field, yet they should make so much noise and make their presence felt by any means necessary. They therefore adopt the following tactics to complement their shortfalls: Intelligence: they gather quick, valuable intelligence using ‘shoe-string’ budgets or resources for reconnaissance missions against the enemy Ambushes: they launch surprise, targeted attacks and quickly disappear into the civilian population Raids: they attack in unexpected places to gain attention Deception: they mask themselves from recognition or deliberately mislead their enemy Sabotage: they disrupt, interrupt, or interfere with the normal day-to-day run of things in order to be heard or noticed Espionage: they carry out surveillance and spying missions on enemies In like manner, the entrepreneur should be ready to responsibly deploy guerrilla tactics in business (marketing, selling, etc.), the intention being to get mileage and acquire trophies at the lowest budget by elbowing potential competition (lions) out of the game. Guerrilla marketers use intelligence gathered from guerrilla research. They ambush unsuspecting customers with publicity material and even raid unexpected places to gain maximum audience and exposure. They are aggressive, extraordinary, subtle, and innovative in their approaches. You simply cannot resist them. The Nature of Guerrilla Methods These are quick and low-budget approaches that yield or give leads and pointers to reliable results. Guerrilla methods are not there to provide detailed results per se but to generate quick insights to help you make informed decisions. They help you to minimize the “dangers of flagrantly assuming”. They either rubber-stamp or quash your “gut feelings”. Classical methods tend to be silo-based and ritualistic, yet guerrilla methods are about “getting out of the building and experiencing the world” as is. Guerrilla methods are about mesmerizing your audiences as you register your presence and visibility. Their effectiveness and possibilities are as limitless as your creativity, innovation, daringness, and audacity. Guerrillas will look for surrealistic visuals and situations that passers- by will always remember. Guerrillas are interested in knowing what sets them apart from the competition. They are interested in harnessing that which gives them a slight edge, winning edge, competitive edge, or cutting edge. As creative thinkers, guerrillas are constantly having to think of new and exciting ways to grab people’s attention and admiration. Key Guerrilla Tactics Companies Can Use In contemporary business, companies can deploy word of mouth, blogs/blogging, podcasts/viral videos trending on social media, graffiti, publicity stunts, treasure hunts (with awarding of prizes at the end), creative billboards, and stealth marketing. Example of a creative guerrilla billboard advertising a food outlet. Professor Mufaro Gunduza coaches and mentors Business Intelligence at Mount Carmel Institute (Harare), Indian School of Management (New Mumbai), and UNISA, among others. He is the SADC Investments Advisor for the Future Trends Group. He has written several books, including Unleashing Blue Sky Thinking, Spotting Business Opportunities, and Big Picture Thinking (Bookboon Publishers, London & Denmark). He has just assumed the Presidency of the Southern African Chamber of Commerce. He can be contacted on WhatsApp: +263774868896 Phone: +263718925350 Email: mgunduza@yahoo.co.uk Guerrilla business tactics Zimbabwe

  • Bobi Wine Says He Has Fled Uganda Amid Alleged Military Manhunt

    Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine speaking at a rally Bobi Wine has announced that he has left Uganda, saying he fled the country to escape what he described as a military-led manhunt following January’s disputed presidential election. In a video posted on the social media platform X on Saturday, Wine said he had been in hiding for weeks after security forces allegedly raided his home shortly after the January 15 vote. “By the time you see this video I will have left the country,” Wine said in the recording, appearing unshaven and speaking from an undisclosed location. He thanked supporters who he said had helped conceal and protect him while he remained in hiding. “I thank all the brave Ugandans who concealed and protected me during this difficult time,” he said, adding that he would return to the country “at the right time.” Wine did not reveal where he had travelled. The opposition leader said the search for him had intensified in recent weeks. According to reports, the effort has been led by Muhoozi Kainerugaba , a senior military officer widely viewed as a potential successor to the country’s longtime leader. Kainerugaba has posted several messages on X targeting Wine, referring to him with insults and accusing him of criminal activity. While the Ugandan police have publicly stated that they are not seeking the opposition politician, Kainerugaba has suggested that Wine could face arrest over unspecified offences. Wine contested the presidential election against Yoweri Museveni , who has ruled the country since 1986. Official results released by the country’s electoral authorities gave Museveni 71.6 percent of the vote. Wine and his supporters rejected the outcome, alleging widespread irregularities and voter intimidation during the election process. The opposition leader has repeatedly called for independent investigations into the vote. Museveni, who is now 81 years old, is expected to be sworn in for a seventh term in office in May. Wine, whose real name is Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, rose to political prominence after building a large following as a musician before entering politics. Over the past several years, he has become a key figure in Uganda’s opposition movement, particularly among younger voters frustrated by unemployment, corruption, and a lack of political change. His supporters see him as a symbol of generational transition in a country where Museveni has been in power for nearly four decades. Wine’s announcement that he has fled Uganda has raised fresh concerns among activists and political observers about the safety of opposition figures and the broader political climate following the contested election. Bobi Wine exile

  • Illegal Mining Sludge Drives Up Water Treatment Costs in Zvishavane

    Zvishavane water treatment plant infrastructure Residents of Zvishavane are facing reduced water supplies after sludge from illegal mining activities contaminated the Ngezi River, significantly increasing the cost of treating water for the town. The chairman of the Zvishavane Town Council (ZTC) , Takarangana Keta, said the local authority has been forced to cut the town’s daily treated water output to manage the rising costs. Speaking in an interview, Keta said the council previously supplied about 28 megalitres of treated water per day but has now reduced production to 23 megalitres. He attributed the situation to sludge flowing into the river from illegal mining activities upstream, particularly during the rainy season when flooding worsens the problem. “We appeal to law enforcement agents to monitor and arrest illegal miners upstream of Ngezi River. Residents should bear with us especially during the rainy season because the water is too muddy,” Keta said. Keta explained that treating the heavily contaminated water now requires large quantities of aluminium sulphate to remove the sludge. According to the council, about 40 bags of aluminium sulphate, each weighing 50 kilograms, are needed every day to make the water safe for consumption. The chemical costs around US$0.70 per kilogram, significantly increasing operational expenses for the council. Zvishavane, which has a population of more than 60,000 people, requires about 28 megalitres of water daily to meet demand. However, the reduced production means many residents are experiencing limited water supplies. Keta urged the government and law enforcement agencies to take action against illegal miners operating along the river. He said the miners are not only polluting the water source but are also damaging infrastructure by vandalising pipelines and valves that carry water to the town. Keta added that the council is planning to rehabilitate the town’s water treatment plant as water demand continues to grow. However, the Zvishavane Original Residents and Ratepayers Association has accused the council of failing to ensure a reliable water supply because it has not upgraded the town’s ageing water infrastructure. The association’s chairperson, Kamino Simango, said the water treatment plant requires urgent rehabilitation to keep pace with the town’s growing population. “Council should stay ahead in terms of expanding services in line with population growth,” Simango said. He also suggested that the council should invest in alternative power sources to ensure uninterrupted water treatment operations. “Council should not rely entirely on electricity from ZESA. It should consider solar-powered systems as a backup to avoid water supply backlogs,” he said. Simango also called for the installation of new pipelines from the Ngezi Water Works into town to improve water delivery. Residents have increasingly raised concerns about water shortages in the mining town as demand continues to grow. Zvishavane water supply illegal mining Ngezi River

  • Lupane man jailed for 16 years for the murder of stepmother

    Lupane district map HWANGE —  The High Court Circuit sitting at Hwange has sentenced 22‑year‑old Mpofu to 16 years’ imprisonment after convicting him of the brutal murder of his 72‑year‑old stepmother, Christine Ncube, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said. On 17 May 2025 at Ncube’s homestead in Lupane, prosecutors say Mpofu struck the elderly woman on the head with an axe and then set her on fire inside her kitchen hut. Witnesses found Ncube alive but gravely injured, bleeding from head trauma and suffering severe burns. She was rushed to the hospital and died a month later from her injuries. The State presented a recorded phone call  in which Mpofu allegedly confessed to his brother that he had struck Ncube and set her ablaze. That confession, together with witness testimony and medical evidence documenting head trauma and extensive burns, formed the core of the prosecution’s case. Mpofu told the court the incident followed a verbal argument about failing to help carry grain to a grinding mill. He claimed he had pulled a burning log from the fire and only pretended to strike Ncube, saying she lost her balance and fell into the flames. He denied using an axe. The High Court rejected Mpofu’s version, finding the State had proved beyond a reasonable doubt that he inflicted the fatal injuries. The sentence reflects the court’s view of the aggravating factors , including the victim’s advanced age and the violent nature of the attack. The conviction underscores the criminal justice system’s response to severe domestic violence and elder abuse . Legal observers say the sentence aims to deliver justice and deter similar offences, while also highlighting the need for stronger community protections for vulnerable older persons in rural areas. Local leaders and social services may face renewed calls to improve reporting channels, elder‑care support, and conflict‑resolution mechanisms to prevent household disputes from escalating into violence. Any appeal will follow High Court procedures. The NPA will indicate whether it intends to pursue further action or whether the defence will lodge an appeal. Meanwhile, community stakeholders are expected to discuss preventive measures and support services for elderly residents. Lupane murder sentence 2026

  • Obadiah Moyo Proposes Salt Tax on Food Manufacturers to Curb Health Risks

    Former Health Minister Obadiah Moyo Former Health Minister Obadiah Moyo has suggested that Zimbabwe should consider introducing a tax on food manufacturers whose products exceed recommended sodium levels, arguing that the measure could help promote healthier eating habits and reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases. Moyo, who now serves as national health advisor for the National Men’s Forum for Economic Development , said the proposed tax would target companies that fail to comply with sodium limits in processed foods. Speaking on the proposal, Moyo outlined a framework that would require food manufacturers to reduce salt levels in products such as soups, stock cubes, processed meats, and salty snacks. “First, we set sodium limits for processed products, soups, stocks, processed meats, salty snacks,” he said. “Second, manufacturers must reduce salt to meet those limits. “Third, if they exceed the threshold, they pay a higher excise tax; the saltier the product, the higher the rate.” Moyo stressed that the tax would not directly target consumers but rather manufacturers whose products exceed recommended sodium levels. “Consumers are not taxed. You are protected by cheaper, lower-salt options and by warnings about salt use at home,” he said. He added that revenue generated from companies that fail to comply with sodium limits could be directed towards health programmes such as blood pressure screening, public education campaigns, and treatment support in clinics and schools. “The tax itself nudges industry and shoppers toward healthier choices,” Moyo said. Health experts have long warned that excessive salt intake is a major contributor to high blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Moyo said reducing salt consumption is an important step in addressing the growing burden of non-communicable diseases in Zimbabwe. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is among the leading risk factors for cardiovascular disease worldwide. Zimbabwe has already introduced measures aimed at reducing excessive sugar consumption. In 2024, the government introduced a levy on sugary beverages known as the Special Surtax on Sugar Content. The measure was announced in the 2024 National Budget and later implemented through Statutory Instrument 16 of 2024 in February that year. Under the current system, manufacturers of ready-to-drink beverages are charged US$0.001 per gram of added sugar, while cordials and concentrates attract a lower rate of US$0.0005 per gram. Authorities say funds generated from the tax are earmarked for the health sector, particularly programmes aimed at preventing and treating non-communicable diseases. Moyo suggested that a similar approach targeting excessive salt in processed foods could further strengthen national efforts to improve public health. Obadiah Moyo salt tax

  • Optics vs. "Science": The Growing Rift Between Marinica and the Warriors’ Faithful

    Marshall Munetsi Harare, Zimbabwe- The release of the Zimbabwe national team squad for the upcoming Four Nations Tournament in Botswana has reignited a fierce debate over the selection criteria used by head coach Mario Marinica. At the heart of the storm is the continued exclusion of vice-captain Marshall Munetsi , whose absence is being viewed by many as a snub of the country's most in-form overseas talent. Marshall Munetsi’s exclusion is particularly jarring given his recent "purple patch" in France. Since moving on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers to Paris FC, the midfielder has silenced critics regarding his fitness by scoring in three consecutive matches. The AFCON Precedent: Marinica previously omitted Munetsi from the AFCON finals in Morocco , citing injury concerns—a claim the player vehemently denied. The "Paris" Revival: Supporters argue that if the "scientific" approach is based on data and performance, Munetsi’s current statistics at Paris FC make him an undeniable starter. The Leadership Gap: Critics point out that while testing new talent is essential, the lack of an on-form vice-captain like Munetsi leaves the squad without a vital bridge between the coaching staff and the emerging youth. The coach’s history with high-performing players has created a narrative of "trivial" decision-making among the fans. Tawanda Maswanhise:  The Motherwell forward was famously sidelined for most of the AFCON group stages , only to be subbed on and named one of the tournament’s best young players. Marinica’s "scientific reasons" for keeping him on the bench were widely panned after his standout performance against South Africa. Tawanda Chirewa:  The "Chirewa Story" remains a sore point for fans, recalling when the then-in-form player was left "out in the cold" during his peak performance window. For a coach whose tenure has been defined by a data-driven approach, the optics of leaving out top-tier players are increasingly difficult to defend. In Zimbabwean football, where loyalty and "on-form" status are the traditional yardsticks for national pride, Marinica's methods are being perceived as a lack of respect for established stars. "A benefactor who bankrolls a team is quickly embraced, but a coach who ignores the people's champions risks losing the dressing room and the terraces alike." Marshall Munetsi Zimbabwe squad snub

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