There is a quiet, ecological execution taking place on the fringes of Harare, and it is being rubber-stamped by our own courts and municipal offices. Week after week, the Southerton Business Times has documented a horrifyingly selective application of the law: ordinary citizens are watched over by state bulldozers in high-density suburbs like Stoneridge, while wealthy, well-connected entities are quietly handed the keys to our city’s life support systems. The recent High Court ruling ordering the transfer of over 30 hectares of prime wetland in Mabelreign to Cabletron Enterprises reportedly driven by a web of local proxies and aggressive Chinese commercial backing is no longer just a story of administrative incompetence. It is a terrifying window into how Zimbabwe’s most vital environmental strongholds are being auctioned off to the highest bidder under the guise of "procedural technicalities." The Myth of "Development" on a Riverbed For years, environmental scientists, civic groups, and the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) have repeated a basic, unassailable geographic truth: Harare sits on its own catchment area. Unlike cities that pump water from distant mountainous reservoirs, our capital relies entirely on its localized wetlands to filter, store, and slowly release water into Chivero and Manyame dams. When we allow private contractors to roll heavy grading machinery into places like Monavale or Westminster Mabelreign, we aren't just creating real estate. We are physically destroying the natural sponge that keeps this city from running completely dry. Watching workers actively erect wire fences directly across an active, flowing river corridor in Mabelreign under the direct supervision of foreign nationals should send chills down the spine of every resident. This isn't urban renewal. It is ecological asset-stripping. The hypocrisy of our current land governance framework would be laughable if the consequences weren't so tragic. When Members of Parliament try to quietly partition Monavale Wetland for their personal residential gain, the public is rightly outraged, and institutional brakes are applied. When rogue political figures attempt to grade protected soil without official documentation, vigilant community groups step in to halt the chainsaws. Yet, when a massive corporate entity swoops in, exploits a pathetic clerical error on a government lawyer’s affidavit, and claims 30 hectares of a river ecosystem, the machinery of justice suddenly works with flawless precision to protect the invader. The City of Harare, the Surveyor-General, and the Registrar of Deeds are ordered to move mountains to process the paperwork. If they hesitate, the Sheriff is empowered to force the pen into their hands. Where is this urgent judicial efficiency when it comes to regularizing housing allocations for ordinary Zimbabweans? Why is the state's iron fist used to flatten homes in Stoneridge under the banner of "restoring municipal order," while the state's velvet glove is extended to shield foreign-backed developers building multi-million-dollar projects on a swamp? We have arrived at a dangerous crossroads where international capital can bypass local environmental regulations simply by wearing down the state in court or utilizing backroom political caucuses. If Chinese investors or local land barons can build on wetlands while locals are relegated to the receiving end of both ecological degradation and physical eviction, then our constitutional protections are a dead letter. The prompt community response that temporarily saved Monavale proves that the citizens of Harare still have teeth. But localized, sporadic outcries are no longer enough to stop an industrial-scale land grab. The Ministry of Local Government, the City of Harare, and the EMA must stop hiding behind defective legal paperwork and corrupt zoning approvals. We demand an absolute, non-negotiable moratorium on all commercial developments across Harare's designated wetlands. If our leaders refuse to protect the water we drink, the air we breathe, and the soil beneath our feet, they are no longer governing they are collaborating in the structural ruin of our capital. The concrete must stop choking our catchments before Harare becomes a desert city built on a foundation of unpayable corporate debt. destruction of Harare wetlands

HARARE – A massive private sector-led intervention is set to completely overhaul Zimbabwe's chaotic urban transport landscape, with 200 public service buses already en route from China and an additional 500 currently under production. The major fleet expansion, confirmed by the Zimbabwe Passenger Transport Organisation (ZPTO) following a high-level stakeholders' meeting in Harare, marks a coordinated attempt by transporters, municipal authorities, and the central government to restore sanity, eliminate illegal ranks, and permanently dismantle the violent touting cartels (mahwindi) that dominate urban commuter ranks. For years, the failure of mass transit has left a vacuum filled by informal, unregulated operators and aggressive touting networks. In high-density ranks, these cartels systematically extort cross-border and local operators, aggressively hiking passenger fares while tax-evading on their illicit earnings. ZPTO Chairman Dr. Samson Nhanhanga revealed that the new fleet will operate under a centralized route management framework with uniform branding a structural shift designed to make touts completely obsolete. "Currently, we are struggling with touts who charge us 10 percent and do not pay tax because there is no order," Dr. Nhanhanga stated. "You will find two buses going the same route loading at the same time. But if we begin to operate as one, there will be no need for touts, and we will collaborate with both police and municipal officers." The strategic pivot to intra-city transit comes as ZPTO which commands a national footprint of over 3,000 buses acknowledges a severe deficit in urban centers. The resulting supply squeeze has allowed pirate operators to exploit desperate commuters, with fares soaring to as much as US$3 for a single trip from Harare to Chitungwiza, and US$2 to Budiriro. The capital-intensive fleet rollout has received significant fiscal backing from the state to cushion commuters against volatile global oil prices driven by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube officially suspended import duty on all public service buses, backdating the relief to January 1, 2026. Gazetted under Statutory Instrument 74 of 2026, this aggressive tax incentive drastically slashes the landing cost of mass transit vehicles, forcing operators to maintain stable, affordable pricing structures for the public. At Town House, the Harare City Council is under immense pressure to rapidly upgrade transit infrastructure before the first batch of 200 vessels docks. Addressing councillors during the 1947th Ordinary Council meeting, Harare Mayor Councillor Jacob Mafume urged city planners to eliminate bureaucratic red tape and establish a seamless operating environment. Transit Phase Bus Volume Status Batch 1 (Intra-City) 200 Buses Departed China / En Route Batch 2 (Mass Transit) 500 Buses Active Production Pipeline Total Fleet Injection 700 Buses ZPTO Strategic Rollout Drawing inspiration from efficient public transport blueprints observed during his recent attendance at a World Forum in Azerbaijan, Mayor Mafume emphasized that the city must match the private sector's multi-million-dollar risk with infrastructural readiness. "They have a beautiful bus transport system, and we want to adopt that transport system. We met some people who have bought 200 buses," Councillor Mafume said. "Before the buses arrive, we need to finish negotiations. Let's expedite this bus issue. We need to roll out public transport in a big way in Harare. These are private actors who have decided to buy buses... we need to give them a bankable plan to proceed." public transport in Harare

HARARE – The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has announced the maximum retail price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) for June 2026, setting the price at US$1.96 per kilogramme and ZWG52.60 per kilogramme in local currency. The monthly pricing update was issued in line with Zimbabwe's petroleum pricing regulations and forms part of ZERA’s efforts to promote transparency, consumer protection, and regulatory compliance within the energy sector. In a statement, ZERA said the latest LPG prices were determined in accordance with the Petroleum (Liquefied Petroleum Gas Pricing) Regulations, contained in Statutory Instrument 90 of 2021. The authority emphasised that the published figures represent the maximum retail prices that consumers should be charged during June 2026. ZERA directed all LPG operators and retailers to prominently display the approved prices at their business premises to ensure consumers are fully informed before purchasing gas products. According to the regulator, pricing information should be displayed in visible locations using clear and legible lettering to improve transparency and strengthen consumer awareness. The directive forms part of ongoing regulatory efforts aimed at ensuring compliance across Zimbabwe’s petroleum and gas industry. While the authority has established a maximum retail price ceiling, ZERA clarified that LPG suppliers and retailers are permitted to charge lower prices where operational efficiencies or market conditions allow. The regulator noted that businesses remain free to offer competitive pricing provided they do not exceed the prescribed maximum rates. Industry observers say the flexibility could benefit consumers in areas where suppliers are able to reduce distribution and operational costs. ZERA urged consumers and stakeholders to verify fuel and LPG price updates through the authority’s official communication channels. The regulator warned against relying on unverified information circulating on social media and encouraged the public to consult official announcements for accurate pricing updates. Consumer groups have welcomed the continued publication of monthly LPG pricing, saying it helps households and businesses budget more effectively while promoting accountability within the energy sector. The monthly review of LPG prices forms part of ZERA’s mandate to oversee Zimbabwe’s energy sector, encourage fair pricing practices, and protect consumers from unfair charges. The latest pricing announcement comes as the authority continues monitoring developments in both local and international petroleum markets, which influence fuel and gas pricing trends. LPG remains an important energy source for many Zimbabwean households and businesses, particularly as demand for cleaner and more efficient cooking and heating solutions continues to grow across the country. Consumers who believe they are being charged above the approved rates are encouraged to report the matter through ZERA’s official channels for investigation. Zimbabwe LPG price June 2026

BIKITA, Zimbabwe – Bikita Minerals (Private) Limited has confirmed the deaths of two employees working for independent contractors at its mining operations in separate incidents over the weekend. The lithium mining company said one employee died following a workplace accident, while another was found unresponsive while on duty in an unrelated incident. In a statement released by management, the company expressed condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased and said investigations into both incidents were underway. The first incident involved Thomas Kaliveni, 40, a dump truck operator employed by contracting firm WGB Kinsey & Company. According to Bikita Minerals, Kaliveni sustained fatal injuries in an accident at the mine's waste dump site on 6 June 2026 at approximately 7:45 pm. "The company regrets to advise of the unfortunate passing of Mr Thomas Kaliveni, a dump truck operator employed by WGB Kinsey & Company, who succumbed to injuries sustained in an accident at the waste dump site," the statement said. Mine management did not immediately disclose the circumstances surrounding the accident, citing ongoing investigations. In a separate and unrelated incident, a security guard employed by Rebnek Security was found dead while on duty during the early hours of 7 June 2026. The company said the employee was discovered by a supervisor conducting routine inspections. "A supervisor carrying out routine inspections found the employee unresponsive while on duty," management said. The cause of death has not yet been publicly disclosed. Bikita Minerals said law enforcement authorities were investigating both incidents and that additional details would be released only when appropriate. "Out of respect for the families involved and ongoing police investigations, no further information will be provided at this stage," the company said. The deaths have renewed focus on workplace safety within Zimbabwe's mining sector, one of the country's most important industries and a major contributor to export earnings. Mining operations, particularly those involving heavy machinery and large-scale earthmoving equipment, remain among the highest-risk work environments globally. Industry experts have consistently highlighted the importance of strict safety protocols, continuous training, and regular equipment inspections to minimise occupational accidents. Bikita Minerals, one of Zimbabwe's largest lithium producers, said the safety, health, and well-being of everyone working at its operations remains a core priority. "The safety, health, and well-being of everyone working at our operations remain a core priority," the company said. The company extended its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pledged its support during the difficult period. Police investigations into both incidents are continuing. Bikita Minerals deaths

LUPANE, Zimbabwe — Police have launched investigations into a suspected double murder in Nyamandlovu, Lupane District, after two brothers were found dead following a violent argument reportedly sparked by a funeral parlour membership pamphlet. The incident, which occurred on June 6, 2026, has shocked residents in Matabeleland North and raised concerns about how ordinary disagreements can quickly escalate into deadly violence. According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), preliminary investigations indicate that one of the brothers had received a pamphlet containing information on joining a funeral service scheme. ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said an argument allegedly erupted when one brother accused the other of intending to join a Satanic cult. "During the altercation, one brother allegedly struck the other several times on the head with a log," Nyathi said in a statement. Police said the injured man later sought refuge at a friend's home but was discovered dead the following day. In a disturbing twist, the second brother was also found dead on the same day under a tree, with visible bruises across his body. "Investigations into the circumstances surrounding both deaths are underway," Nyathi said. Authorities have not yet disclosed the identities of the deceased or confirmed whether additional suspects may be involved. The tragedy highlights the growing need for peaceful conflict resolution within communities. Security experts and social commentators have repeatedly warned that misconceptions surrounding religious beliefs, cultural practices, and funeral service schemes can sometimes fuel unnecessary tensions in rural communities. Police have urged members of the public to seek assistance from community leaders, churches, family elders, or law enforcement whenever disputes arise. The ZRP has consistently maintained that no disagreement, regardless of its nature, justifies violence. The Nyamandlovu incident comes amid ongoing police efforts to curb violent crimes across Zimbabwe. Law enforcement agencies have repeatedly called on citizens to resolve disputes through dialogue rather than confrontation. As investigations continue, police are appealing to anyone with information about the circumstances leading to the deaths to come forward and assist investigators. The case remains under active investigation. Nyamandlovu double murder

FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressing a press conference amidst growing legal and environmental controversies. MEXICO CITY – FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s preparations for the biggest World Cup in history have been thrown into absolute disarray. Already enduring a barrage of public criticism over soaring ticket prices and strict stadium environmental policies, the Swiss administrator has suffered a massive legal setback just three days before the global showpiece kicks off here in Mexico City. On Tuesday, French football legend and former UEFA President Michel Platini officially revived a criminal complaint in Paris targeting Infantino and five other high-ranking Swiss football and prosecution officials. The lawsuit accuses the group of an orchestrated conspiracy, influence peddling, and malicious false accusations designed specifically to derail Platini’s bid for the FIFA presidency a decade ago. The dramatic legal escalation traces its origins back to 2015, a tumultuous period that permanently reshaped global football governance. Following the spectacular downfall of long-time FIFA President Sepp Blatter amid widespread corruption investigations, Platini, then the highly successful boss of UEFA, was widely considered the absolute frontrunner to take over the global body. However, Platini’s ambitions evaporated overnight when he was implicated alongside Blatter in a controversial 2015 financial wrongdoing case involving a US$2 million "disloyal payment" made to him by FIFA. While both Blatter and Platini were ultimately acquitted of federal fraud charges by a Swiss court in 2022, the initial suspension effectively cleared the field for Infantino, Platini’s former UEFA General Secretary, to swoop in and claim the top seat in world football. Platini has long maintained that the timing of the 2015 investigation was a calculated political assassination engineered from within the sport's administrative structures. According to court filings submitted by Platini’s legal team in Paris, the newly registered criminal complaint focuses heavily on the backstage maneuvers of Infantino and Swiss prosecutors during that critical 2015 window. The complaint alleges that: Targeted Sabotage: Infantino and his close allies actively conspired to manufacture and amplify the "disloyal payment" allegations to trigger an immediate FIFA ethics ban against Platini. Influence Peddling: Secret, unrecorded meetings allegedly took place between Infantino and former Swiss Attorney General Michael Lauber, which Platini's camp argues were used to manipulate the judicial process to eliminate Infantino's primary presidential rival. Institutional Collusion: Key prosecution and judicial officials in Switzerland allegedly acted outside their mandates to protect Infantino's rise to power while systemically blacklisting Platini from the sport. The timing of Platini's legal maneuver could not be more damaging for Infantino. The FIFA boss is already under intense fire from fans, players, and environmental advocacy groups alike as North America prepares to host the expanded 48-team tournament. Controversies over extortionate ticket pricing structures and a widely criticized ban on fans bringing reusable water bottles into stadiums have dominated the pre-tournament press cycles. With a revived criminal investigation now hanging over his head, Infantino faces the monumental challenge of steering football’s flagship event through a storm of both public outrage and legal jeopardy. Gianni Infantino criminal complaint

Whilst the COVID-19 era has come and gone, what lingers are horrific memories of our loved ones who succumbed to this global intruder. It caused scary and traumatic moments. When my mum and grandpa tested positive for COVID-19 in 2021, we urgently traveled over 100 km to assure them that it was just like any other disease and curable. We laughed at how cautious Sekuru had been by wearing his mask 24/7 and sanitizing his hands every 5 minutes. They both recovered after administering natural and conventional treatment. The fear of dying from COVID-19 triggered Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in most of us. This is just one of many incidents that may trigger PTSD symptoms in both young and old. What is PTSD? Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a complex mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a terrifying, traumatic event. Common signs of PTSD include flashbacks, hallucinations, avoidance of trauma triggers, and severe anxiety that lasts forever. Physiologically, PTSD affects the brain and how it processes fear, anxiety, and stress. When a traumatic event occurs, our brain's alarm system goes on high alert. Even when you are safe, your brain acts like you are still in danger. Known PTSD Symptoms Intrusion: Experiencing unwanted memories, vivid nightmares, or severe, distressing flashbacks. Avoidance: Staying away from specific people, places, or objects that remind you of the traumatic event. Negative Mood: Feeling emotionally numb, hopeless, depressed, or completely disconnected from others. Arousal: Feeling constantly "on edge," easily startled, having sleep disturbances, or experiencing sudden, angry outbursts. Mental Health Treatment Options The most effective PTSD treatment options are usually short-term, with a duration determined by the speed of healing. Medical and psychological treatment focuses on managing stress and safely processing the traumatic memories. Trauma-Focused Psychotherapy This is the most effective first-step psychotherapy for PTSD. Instead of just talking about your day, you work directly with a licensed mental health professional to change how the trauma affects you. Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): Helps you identify, challenge, and change unhelpful, negative beliefs linked to the trauma. Prolonged Exposure (PE): Safely and slowly face the memories and situations you fear, helping to reduce the emotional hold they have on you. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): Uses guided eye movements while you think about the bad memories, which helps your brain process and lessen the intensity of the thoughts. Medications In conjunction with therapy, doctors often prescribe antidepressants to help regulate brain chemicals like serotonin. SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors): Medications like sertraline and paroxetine are clinically approved for PTSD management. They help reduce anxiety and intrusive thoughts so that therapy becomes easier to manage. Support Systems Group Therapy: Sharing your feelings in a safe, therapeutic setting with others who have had similar experiences. Lifestyle Changes: Practicing mindfulness, yoga, and meditation can help manage daily stress and bring your body out of "fight-or-flight" mode. Where to Find Help for Mental Health in Zimbabwe? If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues or PTSD, try reaching out to a public hospital psychiatric unit, specialized non-governmental organizations (NGOs), or private psychological clinics. For accessible local care, visit Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals in Harare, Ingutsheni Central Hospital in Bulawayo, and Ngomahuru Hospital in Masvingo. Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here. Dr. Precious Sibiya, a mother, sister, daughter, and friend, is a certified Wellness Practitioner, stroke survivor, and advocate for natural healing and lifestyle. Contact her for more wellness insights: Email: precioussibiya2014@gmail.com Phone: +263775369467 mental health issues

BEITBRIDGE – A Beitbridge church leader has been sentenced to 10 years in prison after the death of a woman who was chained, stripped naked, and severely beaten during what was described as a demon-casting ritual. The Bulawayo High Court convicted Bishop Gomori of the Damasko Zion Christian Church of murder following the death of a female congregant during an exorcism session conducted in March 2023. Handing down a sentence on Monday, Justice Ngoni Nduna condemned the church practice, describing it as unlawful and incompatible with modern legal and human rights standards. "The offender's defence that it was a church practice to beat up congregants to cast out demons, and that when the deceased joined his church, she and her husband consented to such a practice, does not hold water and is not lawful," Justice Nduna said. "The practice is archaic and unlawful." Court proceedings revealed that the deceased and her husband, Fortunate Mukwayi, attended a church service at the Damasko Zion Christian Church on March 6, 2023. According to evidence presented by Chief Director of Prosecutions Justin Uladi, two male congregants allegedly restrained the couple with chains after church leaders accused them of being possessed by demons. The pair reportedly spent the night confined in a room while chained. The following morning, they were taken to the Limpopo River, where they were immersed in water as part of what church leaders described as a baptism and exorcism ceremony. After returning to the church premises, the couple was placed in a room where Bishop Gomori allegedly assaulted them using a leather whip. Uladi told the court that the bishop stripped the woman naked before repeatedly whipping her across her body while also assaulting her husband. "The deceased died without dignity as she was stripped naked and severely thrashed in front of male congregants," Uladi told the court. Court testimony indicated that both victims eventually lost consciousness during the assault. The court heard that Gomori left the church premises while the couple remained unconscious. A church member later discovered the woman dead and alerted authorities. Police subsequently launched investigations, leading to Gomori's arrest and prosecution. Giving evidence before the court, Mukwayi described the events that led to his wife's death. He said church pastor Philip Banga interrupted a prayer session and instructed congregants to restrain the couple. "Banga ordered two male congregants to tie us with a chain and claimed we were possessed by demons," Mukwayi testified. "On the following day, we were taken to the Limpopo River and immersed in water, saying they were casting out demons. "We were then taken back to the church where Gomori started to assault us until we fell unconscious, resulting in my wife's death." In aggravation, prosecutors urged the court to impose a custodial sentence to deter similar practices in religious institutions. Uladi argued that a non-custodial sentence would undermine the seriousness of the offence and fail to protect vulnerable congregants. The High Court agreed, imposing a 10-year prison sentence and emphasising that religious beliefs cannot justify violence, abuse, or conduct that places lives at risk. The ruling is expected to serve as a significant legal precedent against harmful practices carried out under the guise of spiritual healing or exorcism in Zimbabwe. Beitbridge bishop jailed for murder

HARARE – Veteran sub-aqua diver Victor Kazembe, popularly known as Coach Rambo, says the recovery operation that uncovered three bodies from a sewer-filled trench in Budiriro was the most disturbing and mysterious mission of his 16-year rescue career. Kazembe was called to the scene on Sunday night after reports that a man had fallen into an open trench filled with sewage while attempting to cross the area. Rescue teams initially believed they were searching for a single victim. Instead, the experienced diver emerged with three bodies. "It is painful to lose loved ones through this kind of death. Drowning in a sewer is heartbreaking," Kazembe said. "Since 2008, this is the first mystery I have encountered. We were looking for a man who had reportedly fallen into the trench. I expected to retrieve a man wearing jeans and a T-shirt, but what we found was completely different." Residents said the trench had remained open for several months after excavation works reportedly began in February. Witnesses said community members attempted to rescue the man using a tree branch, but the thick sewer sludge made it impossible to pull him to safety. Emergency services, including the police and Harare Fire Brigade, were alerted but faced significant challenges accessing and searching the sewer-filled excavation. Kazembe and his sub-aqua rescue team were later called in to assist. Unlike conventional water rescue operations, the Budiriro trench contained dense sewage sludge, creating highly hazardous conditions for divers. "We do not normally dive in mud because it is dangerous and oxygen tanks do not function properly in those conditions," Kazembe explained. "I went down carrying an oxygen tank only for emergencies. It was a sacrifice so that these souls could finally rest in peace." The first body recovered was reportedly a young woman believed to have gone missing a day earlier. Kazembe then descended into the trench a second time and recovered another body. It was only during a third descent, shortly before dawn, that rescuers located and retrieved the man whose reported fall had triggered the operation. According to Kazembe, one of the bodies appeared to have been trapped beneath the sludge for several days, raising questions about how long some victims may have remained undiscovered. The diver said he remains puzzled by the sequence of events that led him to the additional victims. "If I had found the body we were looking for first, I would have retrieved it and come out, leaving the other two beneath the trench," he said. "Their souls led me to the other bodies. If it were not for that, I would not have encountered them." While authorities have not commented on the diver's personal interpretation of the discovery, investigations are expected to establish the identities of the victims and the circumstances surrounding their deaths. The tragedy has sparked public outrage and renewed scrutiny over safety standards at municipal infrastructure projects, particularly open excavations in residential areas. Many residents have questioned why the trench remained exposed for months despite posing a danger to pedestrians and motorists. Meanwhile, businessman and philanthropist Wicknell Chivayo announced that Kazembe would receive a Toyota Aqua vehicle and US$20,000 in cash in recognition of his efforts during the recovery mission. The award is expected to be presented on Saturday. As investigations continue, the Budiriro tragedy has become a stark reminder of the dangers posed by poorly secured infrastructure works and the risks rescue personnel face in recovering victims under extreme conditions. Budiriro trench tragedy

HARARE – Award-winning Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan has been ruled out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after being denied entry into the United States, one of the three host nations for football's biggest tournament. Artan, who was set to become the first Somali official to referee at a FIFA World Cup, was stopped at Miami International Airport after arriving from Istanbul, Türkiye, and was subsequently denied entry by US immigration authorities. The 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, kicks off on June 11 and runs until July 19 across 16 host cities. According to US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the 34-year-old referee underwent additional screening before officials determined that he was "inadmissible due to vetting concerns." "During processing, the traveller underwent additional inspection, a routine part of CBP's inspection process when officers need to verify information or determine admissibility," a CBP spokesperson said. "Following inspection, the traveller, a referee for the FIFA World Cup, was determined to be inadmissible due to vetting concerns and was denied entry." US authorities have not publicly disclosed the specific reasons behind the decision. World football governing body FIFA confirmed that Artan would no longer be able to participate in the tournament after being informed that his immigration status would not be changed. "FIFA can confirm that match official Omar Abdulkadir Artan will be unable to train and officiate at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after he was denied entry into the United States," a FIFA spokesperson said. The organisation emphasised that immigration decisions remain the responsibility of host governments. "In line with previous FIFA events, a host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and who is admitted into their country," FIFA added. Artan's exclusion is particularly significant given his recent achievements. He was named the Confederation of African Football's Best Male Referee for 2025 and was among the elite group of officials selected to oversee matches at the expanded 48-team World Cup. The Somali official has earned widespread respect across African football after officiating major continental competitions, including high-profile CAF Champions League matches. Despite the setback, Artan struck a positive tone in a statement released after the decision. "Despite the circumstances, I am in a positive mood, and I am focused on the next challenges in my refereeing career," he said. The incident has reignited debate over US immigration policies ahead of the World Cup. Somalia is among the countries affected by enhanced travel restrictions introduced by the administration of US President Donald Trump, although authorities have stressed that admissibility decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. The case has also raised broader concerns about whether immigration policies could affect athletes, officials, and supporters travelling to the tournament, which FIFA has promoted as a global celebration of football. For Somalia, Artan's absence represents a historic opportunity lost, as he had been on course to become the nation's first-ever referee at a FIFA World Cup. Omar Artan denied US entry

HARARE – Zimbabwe's title deeds validation and securitisation programme has come under renewed scrutiny after concerns were raised in Parliament over the affordability and accessibility of the country's digital land administration reforms. During a parliamentary session, Bulawayo North legislator Minenhle Gumede questioned whether the costs associated with the Title Deeds Validation and Securitisation Programme could exclude thousands of property owners, particularly pensioners, widows, civil servants, and low-income households. The programme, introduced under Statutory Instrument (SI) 76 of 2025, requires all holders of existing paper title deeds to validate and convert them into securitised digital deeds within a 24-month period ending on July 18, 2027. The reforms are being implemented through the Digital Land Administration Platform (DLAP), a system designed to modernise Zimbabwe's property registry and reduce fraud. "The objective of strengthening property rights, improving the integrity of land records, and protecting citizens from land fraud is both commendable and necessary," Gumede told Parliament. However, she warned that conveyancing fees reportedly averaging around US$200, excluding VAT and other administrative costs, could place a significant financial burden on ordinary Zimbabweans. Property law experts say the concerns are legitimate. Harare-based property consultant Godknows Hofisi previously noted that SI 76 of 2025 requires property owners to submit existing deeds for validation before receiving new securitised title deeds, a process involving legal and administrative procedures. The government argues that the reforms will strengthen property rights, eliminate duplicate records, and reduce title deed fraud. Chief Registrar Willie Mushayi recently said the validation process is expected to improve efficiency and create a secure digital archive of Zimbabwe's property records. Gumede also questioned whether residents in rural areas and provinces outside Harare would have adequate access to the programme, noting that travel and accommodation costs could create additional barriers. "In essence, what safeguards exist to ensure that no citizen loses, compromises or is deprived of their property rights solely due to the inability to afford or access the validation process?" she asked. Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi dismissed the intervention as too technical for debate under a point of national interest, arguing that the matter would be more appropriately handled through a parliamentary committee inquiry. "Parliament in session here is not supposed to deal with the details that she is asking," Ziyambi said, suggesting that the relevant committee summon officials from the Deeds Registry and the Ministry of Justice for a comprehensive briefing. The nationwide programme, launched earlier this year, forms part of the government's broader digital transformation agenda and seeks to create a modern, secure, and transparent property ownership system. Property owners who fail to validate their title deeds within the prescribed period risk facing challenges when conducting future property transactions. As implementation gathers pace, stakeholders are calling for greater public awareness, decentralised services, and affordable fee structures to ensure that the benefits of digital land administration are accessible to all Zimbabweans. Zimbabwe title deeds validation programme

BULAWAYO – In a case that has stunned the local community and highlighted a rising trend of juvenile delinquency, a 14-year-old boy from Bulawayo has been sentenced to three years at Whawha Prison near Gweru for a high-profile motor vehicle theft spree. The juvenile, whose identity is protected for ethical and legal reasons, was convicted and sentenced by Bulawayo Regional Magistrate Patience Ururu. The court heard how the teenager systematically targeted the city's ubiquitous Honda Fit vehicles, operating them as overnight pirate taxis (mushikashika) before abandoning them when the fuel ran out. Although the accused pleaded guilty to all four counts of motor vehicle theft brought against him, he was ultimately convicted on only three counts. The court found that the prosecution, led by Concilia Ncube, failed to provide sufficient evidence linking the juvenile to one of the four recovered vehicles. In passing judgment, Magistrate Ururu did not hold back, rebuking the teenager for abusing the leniency previously shown to him by the state. “You are very young, but your actions defy your age. When you were released to your parents after you were initially arrested, you went on to steal again,” Magistrate Ururu said. “I understand that you are from a broken family, but that does not justify your unbecoming behaviour. You will be sent to prison so that you can reform.” The state outline revealed a highly calculated pattern of operation that spanned less than a month: April 26, 2026: The minor began his spree by stealing a grey Honda Fit from a managed car park in Entumbane. April 29, 2026: He struck again, stealing another Honda Fit from a car park in Nkulumane. He used this vehicle to operate an illegal pirate taxi service throughout the night, abandoning it by the roadside only after it ran out of fuel. April 30, 2026: Deliberately focusing on the specific model, he successfully hotwired and stole a third Honda Fit from an Emakhandeni car park. May 12, 2026: In his most audacious move, the teenager infiltrated the Entumbane Police Station and stole a Honda Fit belonging to an active police officer. He brazenly used the officer’s vehicle to ferry paying passengers across the city for an entire week before ditching it. The multi-suburb crime spree finally came to an end following an intensive investigation by detectives from the Vehicle Theft Squad, who tracked down and arrested the minor. The case has reignited a critical debate among mechanics and law enforcement regarding the security vulnerabilities of older Japanese import vehicles in Zimbabwe. Many mechanics note that the ignition barrels on early-generation Honda Fit models wear down easily over time, occasionally allowing keys from similar vehicles or crude tools to unlock and start the engine with minimal effort. By sending the juvenile to the Whawha Prison retreat, a specialized correctional facility for young offenders near Gweru, the judiciary hopes to provide the structured rehabilitation required to divert the teenager away from a life of professional crime. motor vehicle theft in Zimbabwe