Zimbabwean guitarist Jimmy "Guitar Man" Buzuzi By Percy Nhara HARARE – Zimbabwe's music industry is mourning the death of acclaimed session guitarist James "Jimmy Guitar Man" Buzuzi, whose extraordinary talent, humility, and decades-long contribution to local and international music earned him admiration across generations of musicians. Buzuzi, who recently returned to Zimbabwe after spending several years performing and living in the United States, died after battling health complications. His passing has triggered an outpouring of tributes from fellow musicians, producers, and artists who worked alongside him during a career spanning more than three decades. Affectionately known as "Guitar Man," Buzuzi was widely regarded as one of Zimbabwe's finest session guitarists. His distinctive sound blended jazz, afro-fusion, and Zimbabwean guitar traditions, making him one of the most sought-after instrumentalists in the country. His career included collaborations with numerous artists and bands, including Bongo Love, Willom Tight, Mateo and Friends, The Other Four Band, and The Vigilance Band. Veteran musician Boniface Mavengeni described Buzuzi as more than a colleague. "RIP bro. I owe this guy a lot. Nguva yenzara taipanana tumapepa twehupfu kunopa madzimai kuti vabike sadza," Mavengeni wrote, recalling the difficult years they supported each other through personal hardships. Musician Steve Chamakanda said Zimbabwe had lost one of its most generous and dependable artists. "We lost a good one. I will miss my dear brother and friend, Jimmy Guitar Man Buzuzi. One of a kind, Jimmy was sweet and giving and an awesome musician. He knew how to pitch in and get done what needed doing," he said. "His music lives on in the ethers, on the airwaves, and on everyone's digital devices." Veteran bassist and producer Pablo Nakappa reflected on a friendship that stretched nearly 35 years. "My music journey will be incomplete without mentioning Jimmy. I have known Jimmy for close to 35 years. We have played together in countless bands," Nakappa said. He recalled touring the United Kingdom with musician Winky D in 2013 before Buzuzi relocated to the United States, where he spent nearly a decade pursuing music. "He came back last year and had just started doing gigs. Met Jimmy a month ago, and he told me he was not in good health but was recovering. Such a humble guy, ever smiling. Loved his guitar, loved his jazz," Nakappa said. Singer, songwriter, and producer Eyahra Mathazia paid tribute to Buzuzi's contribution to her acclaimed 2008 album Kibo – The Calling. Mathazia described him as the final addition to the Kibo Orchestra during recording sessions and credited him with elevating the project's authentic Zimbabwean sound. "He had an intuitive ear and could feel where the music was going. We watched his fingers glide with ease over the strings as he had a smile on his face," she said. "A quiet, soft-spoken man. Gifted yet respectful. A musician most bands wanted to work with." She added: "Zion has indeed gained a maestro." Buzuzi established his reputation during the late 1990s at the legendary Lashley Rehearsal Studios in Harare, where many of Zimbabwe's top musicians honed their craft. His talent later carried him onto international stages, including performances in the United States, the United Kingdom, and major Zimbabwean festivals such as the Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA). Despite his achievements abroad, friends say he remained deeply connected to Zimbabwean music traditions and was passionate about mentoring younger musicians. Beyond the accolades and performances, friends remember Buzuzi as a humble family man whose generosity matched his musical brilliance. His death leaves a significant void in Zimbabwe's creative sector, but fellow musicians say his influence will continue to be heard through the countless recordings, performances, and artists he inspired. As tributes continue to pour in from across the world, one message remains constant: Zimbabwe has lost not only a gifted guitarist but also a beloved friend, mentor, and cultural ambassador. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family. May his soul rest in peace. Jimmy Guitar Man Buzuzi

MASVINGO – The Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG) has called for an immediate suspension of operations at Bikita Minerals and an independent investigation into two worker deaths reported at the lithium mining company during the weekend of 6 to 7 June 2026. The call follows confirmation by Bikita Minerals of the death of dump truck operator Thomas Kaliveni (40), who was employed by a contractor and died following an incident at a waste dump site. The company also confirmed the separate death of a security guard employed by an independent security firm. In a statement issued on 9 June, CNRG urged authorities to launch a comprehensive investigation into workplace safety conditions at the mine and determine whether any breaches of occupational health and safety standards contributed to the fatalities. The natural resources watchdog called for an independent occupational health and safety audit covering all mining operations at Bikita Minerals, with particular focus on the Quarry and Mining Department. CNRG further proposed the establishment of a multi-agency task force comprising the National Social Security Authority (NSSA), the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, and the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development to assess compliance with workplace safety regulations. "The reported death of another worker cannot be treated as a routine workplace incident," CNRG said. "Every fatality represents a profound human tragedy and should trigger urgent action to identify and eliminate the conditions that place workers at risk." The organisation also said that if investigations establish that inadequate safety measures contributed to the deaths, the families of the deceased should receive fair compensation. CNRG argued that the latest incidents raise broader concerns about workplace safety in Zimbabwe's rapidly expanding lithium mining sector. "As Zimbabwe positions itself as a strategic player in the global lithium industry, respect for workers' rights, occupational safety, and human dignity must be non-negotiable," the organisation said. "The country's mineral wealth cannot be built on unsafe working conditions and preventable workplace deaths." The organisation noted that these were not the first fatalities reported at Bikita Minerals since the mine was acquired by the Chinese mining group Sinomine Resource Group. CNRG cited several incidents that it believes warrant closer scrutiny by regulators. The organisation said that in October 2023, a worker identified as Nelson Musendekwa allegedly died after being struck by heavy equipment while loading tantalite at the mine. It also referenced a fatal incident in August 2025 involving Farai Murimoga Mutsvange, an employee of subcontractor WGB Kinsey and Company, who was reportedly struck by a dump truck in low-visibility conditions. In addition, CNRG pointed to a blasting incident in 2025 that reportedly left three children seriously injured. Bikita Minerals, located in Masvingo Province, is one of Zimbabwe's largest lithium mining operations and plays a significant role in the country's ambitions to become a major supplier of lithium, a critical mineral used in electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy technologies. Industry experts say workplace safety standards are becoming increasingly important as global investors and international markets place greater emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) compliance throughout mineral supply chains. Authorities have not yet announced whether a formal independent investigation or safety audit will be conducted. Investigations into the recent deaths are ongoing. Bikita Minerals worker deaths

HARARE – A Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) accountant has appeared before the Harare Magistrates' Court facing fraud charges involving more than US$132,000 allegedly siphoned from prison service project funds. Parish Mushimbo (40) was brought before the court on Wednesday on two counts of fraud arising from an alleged scheme prosecutors say operated for nearly three years and resulted in substantial financial losses for the correctional service. According to court documents, Mushimbo was employed as an accountant in the ZPCS Projects Section at the time the alleged offences were committed. The State alleges that between May 10, 2023, and April 2026, Mushimbo acted in concert with two alleged accomplices, Connelious Madzinga and Cannisious Kadyamusuma, who are currently being sought by authorities. Prosecutors claim the trio orchestrated a scheme in which funds were transferred from Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services project accounts into unauthorised bank accounts. The money was allegedly withdrawn and shared among the suspects. According to the State's case, the alleged fraud involved a total of US$132,408. Court papers indicate that investigators have not recovered any of the funds allegedly misappropriated from the prison service. The matter came to light following internal investigations into transactions involving project accounts administered by the correctional service. Authorities have not disclosed the specific projects affected by the alleged fraud or how the suspected irregular transactions were detected. The National Prosecuting Authority alleges that the transfers were conducted without authorisation and resulted in financial prejudice to ZPCS. Mushimbo was granted bail of US$500 by the Harare Magistrates' Court pending further investigations. As part of his bail conditions, he is expected to return to court on June 30, 2026, when the matter is scheduled for routine remand. The court heard that investigations are ongoing, including efforts to locate the two co-accused who remain at large. The case adds to a growing number of fraud and corruption investigations involving public institutions in Zimbabwe, where authorities have intensified efforts to strengthen financial controls and improve accountability in the management of public funds. Legal experts note that fraud cases involving public institutions often require extensive forensic investigations, including analysis of bank records, financial transactions, and internal accounting systems. The allegations against Mushimbo have not yet been tested in court, and he remains innocent until proven guilty. Further proceedings are expected once investigators complete their inquiries and determine whether additional arrests will be made. ZPCS fraud case

GWERU – Seven learners from Matongo Primary School are feared dead after a commuter omnibus transporting pupils caught fire in Gweru's Senga suburb on Wednesday afternoon, in one of the country's worst school transport tragedies in recent years. Authorities say 24 pupils were travelling in the vehicle when the blaze broke out, rapidly engulfing the omnibus and trapping some of the children inside. Seventeen learners were rescued from the burning vehicle and rushed to the hospital for treatment, while emergency services and police responded to the scene. Kombi burning Preliminary investigations suggest that a container of fuel being carried inside the commuter omnibus may have ignited after coming into contact with the vehicle's batteries. Police have cautioned that investigations are still in their early stages and that the exact cause of the fire has not yet been established. "The vehicle had 24 learners on board when the blaze broke out in Senga suburb," police said in an initial briefing. "Investigations are underway, but preliminary findings suggest a fuel container inside the omnibus may have ignited after coming into contact with the vehicle's batteries." Authorities have not yet released the identities of the deceased pending notification of their families. Witnesses at the scene reported that the fire spread quickly through the vehicle, leaving little time for occupants to escape. Some pupils and members of the public reportedly managed to rescue several children before the flames completely engulfed the omnibus. The injured learners were transported to local medical facilities, where they are receiving treatment for burns and other injuries sustained during the incident. Hospital officials had not yet released details on the conditions of the survivors by Wednesday evening. The Zimbabwe Republic Police has launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. Investigators are expected to examine whether the vehicle complied with public transport and safety regulations, including rules governing the transportation of flammable substances. Road safety experts have long warned against carrying fuel inside passenger vehicles because of the significant fire risk posed by fuel vapours and ignition sources. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through Gweru and surrounding communities, with parents, teachers, and residents expressing grief over the loss of young lives. Counselling and support services are expected to be provided to affected families, fellow learners, and school staff as authorities continue their investigations. Further details are expected to emerge once police complete forensic examinations of the vehicle and interview witnesses. The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education and other relevant authorities are also expected to issue statements as investigations progress. Gweru omnibus fire

ZAKA – A 54-year-old man from Mutanda Village under Chief Bota in Zaka has appeared in court facing a murder charge after allegedly killing a young schoolboy and later claiming the child was transforming into a goblin. The accused, Davis Mafume, appeared before Zaka Magistrate Grace Tupiri this week and was remanded in custody pending further investigations. According to court papers, the incident occurred on 4 June 2026 and involved an Early Childhood Development (ECD) learner from Vhudizi Primary School. The State alleges that the young boy left home for school at around 6:30 am before returning later in the day after classes. Prosecutors told the court that the child's grandparents had accompanied his mother to Jerera Growth Point, leaving no one at home when he returned from school. At approximately 6 pm, the child reportedly went to his aunt's homestead, where Mafume was drinking beer. The court heard that Mafume later offered to escort the boy home. However, while walking along the way, he allegedly struck the child several times on the head with a hoe, causing fatal injuries. The child died at the scene. According to information cited by TellZim News from sources familiar with the investigation, Mafume allegedly told police that he believed the child was turning into a goblin and that this belief motivated his actions. The claim has not been tested in court and forms part of the ongoing police investigation. Law enforcement authorities have not indicated whether psychiatric or mental health assessments will form part of the proceedings. Police attended the scene and recovered a hoe believed to have been used during the attack. The implement has been taken into custody as an exhibit. The child's body was transported to a local mortuary for a post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death. Investigators arrested Mafume at approximately 12:20 am on 5 June 2026. The State opposed bail, arguing that the accused posed a flight risk and could interfere with witnesses if released. Prosecutors also indicated that investigators required additional time to complete the docket and gather evidence related to the case. Magistrate Tupiri remanded Mafume in custody pending further court proceedings. The case has shocked residents in Zaka, with community members expressing grief over the death of the young learner while awaiting the outcome of the criminal proceedings. Under Zimbabwean law, an accused person remains innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Zaka murder case

HARARE – Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe has ordered Members of Parliament (MPs) to halt plans to build residential stands on Harare's protected Monavale Wetland, bringing an end to a controversial development proposal that sparked widespread opposition from environmental activists and conservation groups. The decision follows days of tension at the internationally protected wetland, where environmental campaigners physically blocked construction equipment from entering the site after graders and other machinery were moved onto the area in preparation for land-clearing operations. Monavale Wetland, also known as Monavale Vlei, is one of Zimbabwe's most important ecological sites. The 507-hectare wetland was designated a Ramsar Site in 2013 under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, an international treaty that obliges member states to conserve and sustainably manage wetlands of global significance. Former Deputy Information Minister Energy Mutodi, who was leading a group of nearly two dozen MPs seeking residential stands on the land, confirmed on Tuesday that the project had been abandoned following consultations with senior government officials. "I had a meeting with the Speaker of Parliament and also with the Minister of Local Government, and we were advised to stop any developments on that site," said Mutodi. "The current status is that there is not going to be any development for Member of Parliament residential stands at that site. Everything has been stopped." Mutodi said the MPs had accepted the government's position and would comply with the directive. "We have been given the facts. We are now well aware that this land is a no-go area," he said. "The equipment has been removed from the site. There is not going to be any development of any nature because of the issues that have been raised by the environmental agencies and so on." He added that government was expected to identify alternative land for the legislators. The decision has been welcomed by environmental campaigners who argued that any development on the wetland would violate environmental protection laws and threaten Harare's water security. Lawyer Doug Coltart, who represented activists opposing the project, described the government's intervention as a significant victory for environmental conservation and public interest. The standoff reached its peak over the weekend when activists stood in front of earthmoving equipment to prevent land-clearing operations from commencing. Environmental experts say Monavale Wetland plays a critical role in Harare's water management system. The wetland acts as a natural filtration system by removing pollutants, heavy metals and disease-causing pathogens before water reaches the Cleveland Dam catchment area. This natural purification process helps reduce water treatment costs and improves the quality of water supplied to residents. Experts warn that destruction of the wetland would increase water turbidity, raise chemical treatment costs and place additional strain on Harare's already challenged water infrastructure. The wetland is also a biodiversity hotspot supporting numerous species of birds, amphibians and small mammals. According to BirdLife Zimbabwe, Monavale regularly hosts rare and important bird species including Striped Crakes, Streaky-breasted Flufftails, Broad-tailed Warblers and Dwarf Bitterns, particularly during the rainy season between December and April. Conservationists say the government's decision reinforces Zimbabwe's commitment to protecting environmentally sensitive ecosystems and preserving wetlands that play a vital role in climate resilience, biodiversity conservation and water security. Monavale Wetland

DURBAN, South Africa — More than 1,000 migrants, the majority of them Malawian nationals, have fled their homes in Burnwood informal settlement in Durban following threats and intimidation by local residents demanding that foreign nationals leave the area. The displaced migrants have spent several days sheltering in an open field in nearby Sherwood after fleeing what witnesses described as a coordinated campaign of harassment and violence on Sunday evening. According to affected residents, groups of local men moved through the settlement questioning people about their nationality and ordering foreign nationals to leave South Africa. Some migrants reported being assaulted, while many escaped with only the belongings they could carry. Ernest Machwela, one of the displaced migrants, said he fled with his wife and seven-month-old child after spotting a group approaching his shack. "I took whatever I could carry and ran away with my wife and our child," said Machwela. "The group was shouting, 'Abahambe, abahambe,' meaning we must go back home. Some were carrying sjamboks, golf sticks and bush knives." Machwela said many migrants feared reporting incidents to authorities because they were focused on escaping the violence. "We hope the South African government and police will help us so we can be safe," he said. Among those displaced is Jennifer Moses, a seven-months pregnant migrant who has lived in South Africa for four years. Moses said she fears for her safety and future after being forced to abandon her home. Sydenham South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Simo Joli confirmed that a group of local men entered Burnwood settlement on Sunday night and demanded that foreign nationals leave. "Approximately 75 Malawian nationals initially sought refuge at the Sherwood grounds next to Sherwood Hall," said Joli. "Members of the local Muslim community provided meals and blankets. By Tuesday, the number had increased to more than 1,000." Police said security patrols have since been increased around the temporary camp to prevent further incidents. Officials from the Malawian Embassy have begun coordinating assistance for displaced citizens. Adam Ali, a member of the embassy's disaster response team, said many migrants had expressed a desire to return home because they no longer felt secure in South Africa. "We are grateful for the humanitarian assistance, especially as many women are heavily pregnant," said Ali. "Security has improved with the presence of police and private security. We expect the first group to be repatriated early next week." According to embassy officials, approximately 1,200 Malawian nationals are currently gathered at the Sherwood site awaiting further assistance and possible repatriation. Relief organisations and community volunteers have mobilised to support displaced families, many of whom arrived at the camp without food, bedding or basic necessities. Fiaz Magid, director of Gift of the Needy, said the organisation had supplied emergency aid, including drinking water, instant porridge, biscuits, cereals, fruit and baby supplies. The organisation has also distributed nappies, infant formula, wet wipes, toilet paper and sanitary products to vulnerable families. The latest incident has renewed concerns about recurring xenophobic tensions in South Africa, where migrants from neighbouring countries have periodically been targeted during outbreaks of anti-foreigner sentiment. Human rights organisations have urged authorities to protect vulnerable communities and ensure those responsible for threats and violence are held accountable. Malawian migrants flee Durban

HARARE – ZANU PF says it is not opposed to a referendum on the proposed Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment No. 3 Bill (CAB3), but maintains that the country's supreme law does not require the proposed constitutional changes to be subjected to a public vote. Speaking on Star FM's current affairs programme Muriro on Monday evening, ZANU PF Director for Information and Publicity Farai Marapira said the ruling party had acted within the confines of the Constitution and believed the consultation process conducted so far was legally sufficient. "As ZANU PF, we have never refused to go to a referendum, but as a party, we work within the parameters of the law," Marapira said. "If one is to look at the dictates of the Constitution of 2013, these issues that are at hand do not require a plebiscite. "But this process that we have done is enough, and to my understanding, this issue was before the courts, and this is our stance as ZANU PF; not that we have any fear of a plebiscite, but it's just that we work within the parameters of the law." Marapira added that the ruling party had fulfilled both the spirit and letter of the Constitution through parliamentary consultations and stakeholder engagement. "We do not break the law to suit our own ends, or to suit anyone else's ends. This is what we believe we are doing," he said. The Constitution Amendment Bill No. 3 has generated significant debate across Zimbabwe's political and civic landscape, with critics arguing that the proposed changes are too substantial to be approved solely through Parliament. Several civil society organisations, constitutional experts, church leaders and opposition politicians have called for a national referendum, saying Zimbabweans should directly decide on amendments that could reshape key governance structures. Among the strongest critics is the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), which has warned that CAB3 poses a serious threat to constitutional democracy and the separation of powers. In a recent statement, ZLHR argued that the proposed amendments could weaken constitutional safeguards and undermine principles that were endorsed by millions of Zimbabweans during the 2013 constitutional referendum. The Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops Conference has also expressed concern over the proposed amendments, warning that constitutional changes affecting presidential tenure and governance arrangements should receive direct public endorsement. According to the bishops, constitutional legitimacy is strengthened when citizens are given an opportunity to participate directly in decisions that affect the country's governance framework. The Constitution Amendment Bill No. 3 seeks to introduce several changes to Zimbabwe's constitutional framework, including provisions relating to the tenure of certain public office holders and electoral arrangements. Supporters of the Bill argue that the amendments are administrative and constitutional in nature and can be legally enacted through the parliamentary process prescribed by the Constitution. Opponents, however, contend that the proposed changes have far-reaching political implications and should therefore be subjected to a national referendum. The debate is expected to intensify as Parliament continues considering the Bill, with pressure mounting on lawmakers to balance constitutional procedure, public participation and democratic accountability. Constitution Amendment Bill No. 3

HARARE — Air Zimbabwe is set to resume direct flights between Harare and London Gatwick from 1 July 2026, marking its return to the United Kingdom market after nearly 15 years. The national airline will operate the route through a 13-month Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance (ACMI) lease agreement with Spanish carrier Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas, which will provide an Airbus A330 wide-body aircraft and operating crew for the service. According to a statement from Plus Ultra distributed by Spanish news agency Europa Press, the agreement was arranged by aviation specialist Chapman Freeborn Aviation Services and will see flights operate under the Air Zimbabwe flight code. The development is being viewed as a major milestone in the airline’s turnaround strategy and a significant boost for Zimbabwe-UK travel, cargo exports and tourism. The ACMI arrangement enables Air Zimbabwe to re-enter the London market despite remaining on the European Union Air Safety List, which prohibits the airline from operating its own aircraft within EU airspace because of safety compliance concerns. However, European Commission regulations permit banned airlines to operate services using wet-leased aircraft from approved carriers that meet international safety standards. Plus Ultra currently operates a fleet of Airbus A330-200 and A330-300 aircraft on long-haul international routes. The airline has not yet disclosed which aircraft variant will be assigned to the Harare-London service. Air Zimbabwe last operated scheduled flights to London in December 2011 using Boeing 767-200 aircraft before mounting financial difficulties, creditor claims and operational challenges forced the route's suspension. Since then, several attempts to revive direct flights between Zimbabwe and the United Kingdom have failed despite strong demand from the Zimbabwean diaspora community, business travellers and exporters of fresh horticultural products. Aviation analyst and transport consultant Mark Martin told international aviation media that direct long-haul routes connecting diaspora markets often provide strong commercial opportunities when supported by consistent passenger demand and cargo traffic. "The Harare-London route has historically been one of Zimbabwe's most strategic international connections because it serves both passenger and freight markets," Martin said. Many Zimbabweans living in the UK have welcomed the announcement. "It will save us the hassle of connecting through Johannesburg, Addis Ababa or Dubai," said Tendai Moyo, a Zimbabwean professional based in London. "A direct flight between Harare and London has been long overdue." Another traveller, Nyasha Chigumba, said the route could reduce travel times and create more options for families visiting relatives in Zimbabwe. "Competition usually helps bring fares down. We hope the service will be reliable and affordable," she said. The relaunch forms part of Air Zimbabwe's broader restructuring programme under the state-owned Mutapa Investment Fund (MIF). MIF chief executive officer John Mangudya has repeatedly identified the London route as a key component of efforts to restore Air Zimbabwe's international network and improve revenue generation. Industry observers say the success of the Harare-London Gatwick route will depend on competitive pricing, operational reliability and sustained demand from passengers and cargo customers. If successful, the route could become one of the most significant developments in Zimbabwe's aviation sector in more than a decade. Air Zimbabwe London flights

HARARE – Commodity prices on the Zimbabwe Mercantile Exchange (ZMX) remained largely firm during the week ending June 6, 2026, as strong buyer demand and constrained local supplies continued to support key agricultural commodities despite a slight decline in white maize prices. According to the latest ZMX Weekly Bulletin, sustained demand for maize, soya beans, and other staple crops is helping maintain price stability even as seasonal harvest deliveries gradually enter the market. White maize prices eased marginally by 0.20% to close at US$348 per tonne, while soya bean prices strengthened to US$551 per tonne, supported by robust demand and limited local availability. "ZMX commodity prices remained relatively firm during the trading session, with maize closing at US$348/MT despite a slight 0.20% decline, while soya beans strengthened to US$551/MT on the back of strong buyer demand and tight local supply," the exchange said in its weekly market update. The exchange noted that forward demand for white maize remains strong, providing medium-term support for prices. "Standing demand of 1,000MT per month from July to December 2026 is already available on the exchange," ZMX said. The exchange added that the forward contracts demonstrate continued commercial and industrial interest in maize beyond the current harvest season and could help cushion prices against increased supply inflows. Current market data shows farmers have listed approximately 6,510 tonnes of white maize for sale, with asking prices ranging from US$340 to US$357 per tonne. Buyer demand currently stands at 7,000 tonnes across Harare, Bulawayo, and Mutare, with bids ranging between US$300 and US$350 per tonne. ZMX said the narrowing gap between buyer bids and seller offers suggests improving market efficiency as more grain enters formal trading channels. The soya bean market continues to experience supply shortages, helping sustain elevated prices. Demand currently stands at 3,000 tonnes, while available supply is only 500 tonnes, creating a significant supply deficit. Analysts say the imbalance reflects strong demand from the stockfeed, cooking oil, and livestock sectors, which continue to compete for limited domestic production. Demand for yellow maize also remains strong, with buyers seeking 3,120 tonnes compared to only 460 tonnes available on the exchange. The shortage is largely being driven by stockfeed manufacturers and livestock producers requiring grain inputs. Meanwhile, wheat demand remained active at 1,000 tonnes, despite no supplies being listed on the exchange. Wheat prices held firm at US$470 per tonne, broadly aligned with import parity costs. Sugar beans and groundnuts continued to command premium prices of up to US$1,300 per tonne due to constrained supplies and strong market demand. Sugar bean supplies stood at 1,250 tonnes, with sellers seeking between US$1,150 and US$1,200 per tonne, while buyers were offering up to US$1,250 per tonne. ZMX noted that local commodity prices remain significantly higher than regional and international benchmark markets, including those traded on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. The exchange attributed the premium pricing to domestic supply constraints, transportation costs, and sustained local demand. The market is also being influenced by the government's 40:60 Local Grain Procurement and Import Verification Framework, which requires grain buyers and agro-processors to source at least 40% of their grain locally before importing the balance. Authorities say the policy is designed to support local farmers, strengthen food security, and reduce dependence on imported agricultural commodities. Zimbabwe commodity prices

HARARE – In the corridors of the High Court of Zimbabwe, justice is often treated as a game of technicalities. Last week, Justice Joel Mambara struck down an opposing affidavit from the Minister of Local Government and Public Works simply because a state lawyer forgot to insert a date on the document. With that single procedural blunder, a massive 30.773-hectare prime piece of land in Mabelreign Township was effectively handed over to a private entity, Cabletron Enterprises (Private) Limited. But behind this sterile legal victory lies a deeply disturbing environmental and political scandal that exposes the raw rot within Zimbabwe’s urban land governance. The 30 hectares in question do not comprise ordinary commercial real estate. It is a vital, ecologically sensitive wetland. The Architecture of the Mabelreign Volte-Face According to court records, Cabletron’s claim dates back to a 2008 transaction. Following internal ministry recommendations, the government issued an official offer letter on September 29, 2021, presenting the land as "compensation." Administrative machinery moved swiftly: site diagrams were drawn, and plan reference numbers HOA1374 to HOA1391 were processed. However, by March 2024, reality seemed to briefly dawn on the Ministry. Realizing the immense public interest and environmental stakes in Mabelreign, officials attempted a dramatic volte-face, arguing that it was inappropriate for a single private entity to swallow the entire allocation. They proposed a downsized piece of land and alternative space elsewhere. Justice Mambara dismissed this defense as an unjustified "bare assertion." Because the state's legal team from the Civil Division of the Attorney-General's Office bungled the affidavit's jurat, the court treated the matter as entirely unopposed. The City of Harare, the Surveyor-General, and the Registrar of Deeds have now been ordered to fast-track title transfers to Cabletron. If they stall, the Sheriff of the High Court has been authorized to sign the titles away. The Corporate Mask: Who Really Owns Cabletron? While the legal paperwork lists a local individual known as "Katuruza" as the face of Cabletron, investigations by the Southerton Business Times paint a completely different, darker picture of who actually calls the shots. Days before the judgment, our news team visited the disputed Mabelreign site. We did not find local empowerment project managers. Instead, we witnessed a Chinese national aggressively directing construction contractors. The workers were actively erecting a fence right across the flowing river corridor, physically cordoning off the wetland. This raises immediate eyebrows. Is "Katuruza" merely a local front, a political proxy masking foreign corporate interests? Fence erected across the river Environmental Warning Draining and fencing off rivers directly accelerates the drying up of Harare's primary water table, threatening the city's long-term water security. The hypocrisy is blinding. Just recently, Members of Parliament were rightfully stopped from allocating themselves residential stands in the nearby Monavale Wetland. Yet, a well-connected private company with deep foreign pockets can use a broken legal system to fence off an active river ecosystem in Mabelreign without a functioning Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). Selective Justice: From Monavale to Stoneridge This brings us to the broader, systemic crisis paralyzing Harare’s borders. How can we blame individuals like controversial MP Energy Mutodi, who was recently exposed on social media invading the Monavale Wetland with heavy grading equipment without documentation? Images are currently awash online showing Mutodi’s machinery tearing into protected soil. While a prompt and fierce community response successfully forced a halt to Mutodi's illegal grading, the underlying double standard remains unchallenged. The elite and their foreign benefactors operate above the law, while ordinary citizens bear the brunt of brutal enforcement. Citizens stopping the bulldozer that was hired by MP Honorable Energy Mutodi, from proceeding. Mabelreign Scheme Stoneridge Destruction A foreign-backed private entity uses state legal blunders to secure 30 hectares of protected wetland, physically fencing off an active river. The parallel timelines are sickening. A few days after the High Court cleared the path for the destruction of the Mabelreign wetland, a brutal wave of house demolitions flattened properties in the high-density suburb of Stoneridge. Our investigations into the Stoneridge saga reveal a chillingly familiar pattern: a powerful Chinese investor is heavily involved behind the scenes. The tragic equation of modern Harare is clear. In Stoneridge, a Chinese hand pulls the strings, and local families watch their homes turned to rubble. In Westminster, Mabelreign, a Chinese hand directs the fencing of a public river, and the courts facilitate the capture. Locals are left at the receiving end in both cases. We are left with an uncomfortable, devastating truth: in Zimbabwe, wealthy foreign investors are permitted to build on protected wetlands and displace communities, while locals are treated as criminals on their own soil. This selective application of environmental and municipal law is not justice it is corporate colonization under the guise of legal process. land grab in Harare

BULAWAYO – A Bulawayo man has been fined US$100 after a court convicted him of unlawfully possessing and wearing camouflage clothing, with the magistrate rejecting his defence that he did not know the attire was prohibited under Zimbabwean law. Qhubekani Mkhize (43), of Nguboyenja suburb, appeared before Bulawayo magistrate Golden Muyambo, facing charges related to the unauthorised possession and wearing of camouflage apparel. The court ordered Mkhize to pay the fine by June 15, 2026. Failure to pay will result in a three-month prison sentence. During the proceedings, Mkhize told the court that he had acquired the camouflage trousers while working as a security guard in South Africa. He argued that he was unaware that Zimbabwean law restricts civilians from possessing or wearing military-style camouflage clothing without proper authorization. However, the court rejected the explanation and found him guilty of the offence. Zimbabwe maintains strict regulations governing the possession and use of camouflage attire, which is generally reserved for members of the security services and other authorised personnel. Prosecutor Sibusisiwe Sithole urged the court to impose a sentence that would discourage members of the public from unlawfully wearing camouflage clothing. The State argued that camouflage garments are frequently abused by criminals seeking to impersonate members of the military, police, or other security agencies. According to the prosecution, such impersonation can be used to facilitate crimes including extortion, intimidation, and fraud. The prosecutor submitted that a meaningful penalty was necessary to reinforce compliance with the law and deter similar offences. The court heard that on May 25, 2026, detectives from the CID Minerals, Flora and Fauna Unit were conducting an operation known as Operation Iron Fist at Oswell Mine in Umguza, near Bulawayo. During the operation, officers allegedly observed Mkhize standing near the mine's main entrance while wearing camouflage trousers. Detectives approached him and requested proof that he was authorised to possess and wear the clothing. According to court testimony, Mkhize failed to provide any documentation or official authority permitting him to wear the camouflage attire. Police subsequently arrested him and confiscated the trousers. The camouflage clothing was later produced before the court as evidence during the trial. Authorities have repeatedly warned members of the public that wearing military-style camouflage clothing without authorisation is a criminal offence in Zimbabwe. Law enforcement agencies say the restrictions are intended to protect public safety and prevent criminals from masquerading as security personnel. The conviction serves as a reminder that individuals found in possession of prohibited camouflage apparel may face arrest, prosecution, fines, or imprisonment under Zimbabwean law. camouflage clothing Zimbabwe