COLLEEN BAWN, Zimbabwe – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has intensified community policing efforts in Matabeleland South, mobilising approximately 450 farmers, miners, and workers in Colleen Bawn for a crime awareness campaign aimed at curbing violent crime and promoting compliance with mining regulations. The campaign, led by Officer Commanding Matabeleland South Commissioner Elizabeth Phiri, brought together key stakeholders from the mining, farming, and business sectors as authorities seek to strengthen partnerships between law enforcement and local communities. The awareness programme focused on several key issues affecting communities in the province, including violent crime, the carrying of dangerous weapons in public, domestic violence, and adherence to mining laws. Addressing participants, Commissioner Phiri stressed that effective crime prevention depends on strong cooperation between police and the communities they serve. "Working together with farmers, miners and community groups is the only way we can reduce violent crime and enforce mining regulations. We are here to listen and partner with you," she said. The initiative forms part of broader efforts by police to address security concerns in mining and farming areas, where disputes, illegal mining activities, and violent incidents have increasingly become a source of concern. The event attracted representatives from several organisations and community structures, including Women in Mining, the Business Against Crime Forum of Zimbabwe, Crime Liaison Committees, and the Community Crime Prevention Network (CCPN). Police said the participation of diverse stakeholders demonstrates the growing recognition that crime prevention requires a collective response involving law enforcement agencies, businesses, community leaders, and residents. Community policing programmes have become a key strategy for the ZRP, enabling officers to engage directly with residents, identify emerging threats, and encourage public participation in crime prevention efforts. Commissioner Phiri also warned against the carrying of dangerous weapons in public places and condemned domestic violence, which remains a significant social challenge in many communities. "Carrying dangerous weapons in public and domestic violence will not be tolerated. We urge communities to report incidents early so that police can intervene before they escalate," she said. Authorities noted that early reporting of criminal activity is critical in preventing serious offences and improving public safety. Matabeleland South is home to several mining operations and small-scale mining activities, making compliance with mining regulations an important aspect of maintaining law and order. Police said awareness campaigns such as the one held in Colleen Bawn are designed to educate miners about legal requirements while also addressing criminal activities that sometimes occur in mining communities. The ZRP has pledged to continue working closely with farmers, miners, businesses, and residents to create safer communities and strengthen public confidence in law enforcement. Officials say ongoing engagement with communities will remain central to efforts aimed at reducing crime and improving security across the province. Matabeleland South crime awareness campaign

BULAWAYO, Zimbabwe – Fifty-one pupils at Barham Green Primary School were injured after a swarm of bees attacked learners on Friday afternoon, forcing emergency services to temporarily close the school and a nearby road while rescue efforts were carried out. The incident triggered a swift response from the Bulawayo Fire Brigade and emergency medical teams, with dozens of affected children rushed to the hospital for treatment. Bulawayo Chief Fire Officer Mhlangano Moyo confirmed that 51 learners were stung during the attack, with some experiencing severe reactions that required urgent medical attention. "Fifty-one schoolchildren were attacked by a swarm of bees. It was really bad some were vomiting," Moyo said. Witnesses described scenes of panic as pupils scrambled for safety while teachers and school staff worked to protect learners from the aggressive swarm. Authorities dispatched four ambulances to the scene to transport the injured pupils to United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) for assessment and treatment. Firefighters were also deployed and used hose reels to disperse the bees and secure the school grounds. The scale of the incident prompted emergency services to temporarily shut down the road outside the school to facilitate access for ambulances and rescue personnel. "We had to temporarily close the road and the school for about an hour," Moyo said. The bee attack caused significant disruption to learning activities as emergency teams worked to contain the situation and ensure the safety of pupils and staff. Parents and guardians were informed of the incident while medical personnel monitored learners who had suffered multiple stings or displayed signs of allergic reactions. Bee stings can cause symptoms ranging from pain and swelling to more serious complications, including breathing difficulties, nausea, vomiting, and anaphylactic shock in severe cases. After firefighters successfully dispersed the swarm and authorities declared the area safe, normal operations gradually resumed at the school. All affected pupils received medical attention, and no fatalities were reported. The cause of the attack was not immediately established, although experts note that bees can become highly aggressive when their hive is disturbed or when environmental conditions trigger defensive behaviour. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers posed by bee swarms, particularly in areas where schools, residential communities, and public spaces are located close to natural habitats. Authorities have urged schools and communities to report the presence of large bee colonies near public areas to allow for safe removal and prevent similar incidents. Bee swarm attack Barham Green Primary School

BULAWAYO, Zimbabwe – Police have arrested five suspected drug traffickers after intercepting a vehicle carrying 360 kilogrammes of dagga valued at approximately ZiG10.8 million along the Bulawayo–Solusi Road in a major anti-drug operation. The suspects have been identified as Gordon Nkowu (58), Nkosiyabo Moyo (57), Shepherd Nkomo (43), Beven Sibanda (40), and Isaiah Moyo (31). According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the five men were allegedly transporting the illicit consignment in a South African-registered vehicle towing a trailer when law enforcement officers intercepted them. Preliminary investigations indicate that the dagga was smuggled from South Africa, passed through Botswana, and was destined for Zimbabwe before police disrupted the operation. Authorities are now investigating the full extent of the suspected trafficking network, including possible links to regional drug syndicates operating across Southern Africa. The seizure is one of the latest successes in Zimbabwe's ongoing campaign against drug trafficking and substance abuse, which authorities say continues to threaten communities, particularly young people. In a statement, police reiterated their commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks and preventing Zimbabwe from being used as a transit route for illegal substances. "The ZRP will not allow Zimbabwe to be used as a transit route or destination for illegal drugs. We continue to work with regional partners and communities to intercept smugglers and bring them to justice," police said. Law enforcement agencies across the region have increasingly strengthened cooperation in response to growing concerns over cross-border drug trafficking routes linking Southern African countries. The latest arrest comes amid intensified efforts by the Government, law enforcement agencies, and community organisations to combat drug and substance abuse. Authorities have repeatedly warned that illegal drugs, including dagga, crystal methamphetamine, unregistered pharmaceuticals, and codeine-based cough syrups, are contributing to rising cases of addiction, crime, and social problems. The Government's Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024–2030) seeks to reduce both the supply and demand of illicit substances through law enforcement operations, public awareness campaigns, rehabilitation programmes, and regional cooperation. Police have not yet disclosed the intended destination of the consignment or whether additional suspects are being sought. The five suspects are expected to appear in court facing drug trafficking-related charges once investigations are completed. Authorities have urged members of the public to continue reporting suspicious activities linked to drug trafficking and distribution, saying community intelligence remains critical in disrupting criminal networks. The latest seizure highlights the growing sophistication of cross-border smuggling operations and the importance of regional collaboration in tackling organised crime across Southern Africa. 360kg dagga seizure Zimbabwe

GENEVA, Switzerland — The Government has resolved to ensure that revenue collected through Zimbabwe's sugar tax, fast-food tax, and other health-related levies is ring-fenced exclusively for healthcare programmes, Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora has said. Speaking on the sidelines of the World Health Assembly in Geneva, Mombeshora said the move is aimed at addressing persistent funding gaps in Zimbabwe's public health system and ensuring that resources generated for health purposes are not diverted to other sectors. The minister said ring-fencing health taxes would provide a more sustainable source of funding for critical healthcare services, infrastructure development, and disease prevention programmes. "Our plan now is to have monies that are meant for health programmes ring-fenced. The money is collected for health purposes, but if it is not ring-fenced, it can then be used for other things," said Mombeshora. "We think that has been the main problem for us, failing to get the money that is meant for health programmes." The minister acknowledged that there had been resistance to the proposal but said President Emmerson Mnangagwa had endorsed both the introduction of health taxes and the principle that the proceeds should directly support healthcare delivery. "There has been a bit of resistance, but I think we have got the support of our President, who has accepted that these taxes should be introduced and, secondly, that they must be linked to health programmes," he said. "If all this money were ring-fenced, we would not be worried at all because it would mean we still have that money available for health services." Zimbabwe introduced taxes on sugary beverages and selected fast foods as part of efforts to combat the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases. Health experts have warned that lifestyle-related illnesses are placing increasing pressure on Zimbabwe's healthcare system, with cases of diabetes and high blood pressure continuing to rise. The taxes were designed to achieve two objectives: discourage excessive consumption of unhealthy foods and drinks while generating additional revenue for public health programmes. Despite the introduction of the levies, Mombeshora noted that fast-food outlets continue to expand across the country, suggesting that taxation alone may not be enough to change consumer behaviour. "When the sugar tax was introduced and the fast-food tax, it was to try and discourage people from taking sugary drinks and also from going for these takeaways, pizzas and other fast foods," he said. "But fast foods are proliferating. I think it is more a question of knowledge and awareness." The minister stressed the need for stronger public education campaigns to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce the prevalence of preventable diseases. "We need to educate parents and communities on healthy lifestyles," he said. Health sector stakeholders have long advocated for dedicated funding streams to strengthen hospitals, improve access to medicines, recruit healthcare workers, and support disease prevention initiatives. If fully implemented, the ring-fencing of sugar tax revenue could provide a significant financial boost to Zimbabwe's health sector at a time when demand for healthcare services continues to grow. The move also aligns with broader government efforts to improve healthcare financing and build a more resilient public health system capable of addressing both communicable and non-communicable diseases. Zimbabwe sugar tax revenue

A growing controversy surrounding the so-called “Harm This Natasha” trend on Chinese social media has reignited debate about online racism, the exploitation of vulnerable communities and the responsibilities of digital platforms in moderating harmful content. The trend centres on videos featuring a black baby doll commonly referred to as “Natasha.” In widely shared clips, users are seen striking, stomping on or otherwise mistreating the dolls, often under the guise of comedy or stress relief. Critics argue that the trend goes beyond dark humour and reflects deeper racial prejudices. Human rights advocates and social commentators have pointed to comments accompanying some of the videos that allegedly portray Black people in dehumanising ways, raising concerns about how racial stereotypes can be amplified through social media algorithms. Broader Concerns About Anti-Black Content The controversy has also drawn renewed attention to a wider ecosystem of content that critics say exploits Black people, particularly children in economically disadvantaged African communities. Over the past several years, investigative reports and documentaries have highlighted cases in which African children were filmed for commercial content aimed at audiences abroad. In some instances, children were reportedly paid small amounts of money or given gifts in exchange for appearing in personalised videos that were later sold online. One of the most widely cited investigations was a 2022 documentary by the British Broadcasting Corporation, which exposed a network producing videos featuring children in Malawi. The report sparked international outrage and prompted calls for stronger protections against the exploitation of minors. Activists argue that newer forms of content continue to raise ethical concerns, particularly when children are portrayed in humiliating situations or used primarily as props for entertainment and profit. The Challenge of Cross-Border Moderation A key issue highlighted by critics is the difficulty of regulating harmful content across different digital ecosystems. China's domestic social media platforms operate largely independently from major Western platforms, creating distinct online environments with different moderation standards and regulatory frameworks. Digital rights researchers note that while Chinese platforms maintain strict controls over political content and other sensitive topics, questions remain about how effectively racist content, hate speech, and the exploitation of foreign subjects are identified and removed. The issue is further complicated by language barriers and limited international visibility. Content that generates controversy within one country may remain largely unknown to the communities being depicted, making accountability more difficult. Calls for Greater Responsibility Human rights organisations, digital governance experts, and child protection advocates have increasingly called for stronger safeguards to prevent the exploitation of vulnerable populations online. These groups argue that social media companies, content creators, and regulators share responsibility for ensuring that online engagement does not come at the expense of human dignity. The controversy surrounding the “Harm This Natasha” trend serves as a reminder that digital platforms can amplify both creativity and prejudice. As online audiences continue to grow across borders, the debate is likely to intensify over how technology companies should respond when viral content intersects with racism, exploitation, and the rights of vulnerable communities. At its core, the discussion is not simply about a viral trend. It is about whether global digital spaces can effectively balance freedom of expression with the need to protect individuals and communities from dehumanisation and abuse. Harm This Natasha trend

BULAWAYO, Zimbabwe – The Government has intensified pressure on the Nurses Council of Zimbabwe to decentralise its operations and establish provincial offices, amid growing concerns over the financial and logistical burden faced by nurses who must travel to Harare for registration and licensing services. Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care Sleiman Timios Kwidini publicly challenged the council to provide clear timelines for decentralisation during the International Day of Midwives commemorations held at United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) on Friday. His remarks drew enthusiastic applause from nurses and midwives attending the event, many of whom have long complained about the high costs associated with travelling to the capital for professional registration and administrative services. Addressing delegates, Kwidini said some parastatals and professional regulatory bodies were lagging behind government efforts to decentralise services under the national devolution agenda. "As the deputy minister, I have seen that there is some resistance to change in our parastatals," he said. The deputy minister questioned why the Nurses Council continues to operate primarily from Harare despite government policy promoting equitable access to public services across all provinces. He revealed that UBH management had offered temporary office space to facilitate the establishment of regional registration services. "A great work and greater job has been done by our CMO at UBH, who is going to offer them a room for three to six months so that they can do the registration and any other duties they are doing in Harare for this region also," said Kwidini. The proposal was welcomed by healthcare professionals who say travelling to Harare for registration often imposes significant financial strain. Many nurses from provinces such as Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South, Midlands, and Masvingo are required to spend money on transport, accommodation, and meals while processing registration documents. Healthcare workers attending the event said the centralisation of services can delay professional registration, affecting employment opportunities, deployment, and career progression, particularly for newly qualified nurses from remote areas. Responding to the concerns, Nurses Council Registrar Rhoda Mafukidze acknowledged the need for decentralisation and said plans were already in motion. "It is work in progress and we will start devolving soon and will update him," Mafukidze said. However, Kwidini insisted that the council provide a concrete implementation schedule rather than broad assurances. "As professionals, we don't want to put someone on the bus, but now is not the time. A time frame is needed," he said. "I will be on your back to make sure this is going to be applied." Speaking to journalists after the event, Kwidini said decentralising registration services was essential to achieving President Emmerson Mnangagwa's vision that "no place and no one should be left behind." He argued that nurses from distant areas such as Beitbridge, Binga, and Victoria Falls should not be forced to travel hundreds of kilometres simply to complete registration processes. "We have said this is the time to devolve. The Nurses Council should come down to the southern region and set offices so that all these services being given in Harare are also found in the southern region," he said. The call reflects wider public demands for the decentralisation of key government and regulatory services, with many Zimbabweans continuing to travel long distances to access administrative functions concentrated in the capital. Healthcare stakeholders say establishing provincial offices could improve efficiency, reduce costs for nurses, and strengthen access to essential professional services across the country. Nurses Council decentralisation Zimbabwe

HARARE, Zimbabwe – More than 300 illegal structures were demolished in the Whitecliff commercial area on the western outskirts of Harare after the Messenger of Court executed a long-standing eviction order issued by the Harare Magistrates' Court. The operation targeted structures erected on land situated along Bulawayo Road and Ordlands Road, bringing to an end a protracted land dispute between property owners and occupants accused of illegally settling on the site. The eviction was carried out on Thursday following a court order granted by Harare Magistrate Talent Mutasa in favour of Eddie Pfugaris Properties, the registered owner of the land. Court records show that Eddie Pfugaris Properties successfully applied for the eviction of Rodgewene Mubaiwa and six other respondents identified as Alois Mafadzakupa, Tinashe Chatambudza, Brian Hera, Never Machando, Saymore Xhabela, and Estrodge Mubaiwa. The order, initially granted in January 2025, had not been enforced until this week. Through their legal representatives, Nyikadzino Masango and Associates, Eddie Pfugaris Properties argued that it is the lawful owner of Stand Number 10139, Whitecliff, and that the occupants no longer had legal authority to remain on the property. According to court submissions, the respondents initially occupied the land in 2020 after receiving temporary permission from the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development. However, that permission was formally withdrawn through a letter dated November 8, 2024, effectively ending any legal basis for continued occupation. The property owner subsequently approached the courts seeking the removal of the occupants and the demolition of structures erected on the land. Speaking after the operation, Eddie Pfugaris Properties General Manager Percy Chitima said the structures had been erected unlawfully and without the consent of the property's registered owners. Chitima alleged that the occupants constructed the buildings overnight after moving onto the land in 2020. "The Messenger of Court executed the eviction order on Thursday, resulting in the removal of more than 300 illegal structures that had been erected on the property," he said. The demolition exercise attracted attention from residents and businesses in the area as machinery moved in to clear the structures. The Whitecliff demolition highlights ongoing challenges surrounding land occupation, informal developments, and property rights in and around Harare. Urban planning experts have repeatedly warned against the proliferation of unauthorised structures, saying they often emerge without approved development plans, proper infrastructure, or compliance with municipal regulations. Authorities have, in recent years, intensified efforts to regularise land use and remove illegal settlements and commercial developments established on privately owned or State-controlled land. The latest operation underscores the importance of securing proper land tenure and development approvals before undertaking construction projects, particularly in rapidly expanding urban and peri-urban areas. Whitecliff illegal structures demolition

HARARE, Zimbabwe – The Government has activated a specialised anti-drug enforcement unit comprising selected police and military officers as part of an intensified campaign to combat drug and substance abuse and dismantle sophisticated trafficking networks operating across Zimbabwe. The unit, established three weeks ago following a high-level security review involving intelligence and law enforcement agencies, is already credited with dozens of arrests and several convictions linked to drug trafficking and distribution. Authorities say the move comes amid growing concerns over the proliferation of dangerous substances such as crystal methamphetamine, mbanje, BronCleer cough syrup, and unregistered pharmaceuticals, which have increasingly affected communities across the country. According to security sources, the specialised unit was created after investigations allegedly revealed that some members of previous anti-drug enforcement structures had become compromised through suspected links to drug syndicates. A senior intelligence officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the new structure was designed to strengthen accountability and improve operational effectiveness. "Yes, I can confirm that a special anti-drug and substance enforcement mechanism was activated following recommendations made during an inter-agency security review," the officer said. "The country is facing a dangerous and evolving drug problem that requires a new tactical approach. The unit is fully operational and comprises highly trained officers with specialised capabilities in surveillance, intelligence gathering, tactical response and covert operations." The officer added that the unit has been equipped with mobility assets, surveillance technology, and specialised operational support to tackle increasingly sophisticated criminal networks. Authorities say the intelligence-led unit has already conducted operations in major urban centres and strategic entry points believed to be used as transit routes for illegal drugs. According to figures provided by security sources, the unit has made 44 arrests linked to drug trafficking, unlawful possession, and distribution of dangerous substances. At least 14 suspects have already been convicted, while several investigations remain ongoing. Police are reportedly searching for Norman Chabata of Marimba, Harare, who is alleged to be linked to drug trafficking activities. Three of his relatives, Cathrene Chembe (36), Loveness Phiri (43), and Loice Musakwa (36), have appeared in court facing drug-related charges. Their case remains before the courts. In one of the unit's most significant operations to date, investigators uncovered a concealed drug storage facility in Mbare, Harare. Authorities allege narcotics were hidden in a two-metre-deep underground compartment concealed beneath a dog kennel occupied by aggressive dogs. Police arrested Paul Mazinyane (37), Thelma Sorjen (25), and Prince Takaendisa (32), all from Joburg Lines in Mbare, in connection with the discovery. Investigators reportedly recovered hundreds of bottles of codeine-based cough syrup, quantities of mbanje and mbanje seeds, packaging materials, weighing equipment, and records allegedly linked to drug distribution. Authorities also reported recovering explosives from the site, with the matter now before the courts. "The drugs were hidden underground beneath a kennel occupied by dangerous dogs. It was clearly designed to intimidate or delay law enforcement officers during searches," the intelligence officer said. The latest crackdown forms part of Zimbabwe's Multi-Sectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024–2030), a national strategy aimed at reducing drug supply, preventing substance abuse, and strengthening rehabilitation services. Updating the Cabinet recently, Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, who chairs the Zimbabwe National Committee on Drug and Substance Abuse, said authorities had recorded significant progress. Government statistics show that 2,889 suspects have been taken to court, resulting in 381 convictions. Authorities have also dismantled 453 drug supplier networks, identified 2,436 end-users, and shut down 31 drug bases in Manicaland and Mashonaland West provinces. In addition, drugs and illicit substances valued at more than ZiG79.9 million have been seized during nationwide operations. Officials say investigations and enforcement activities will continue as authorities seek to dismantle entire trafficking networks, including suppliers, transporters, financiers, and facilitators involved in the illegal drug trade. Zimbabwe anti-drug unit

MAZOWE, Zimbabwe – The Government has intensified efforts to eliminate the use of mercury in artisanal and small-scale gold mining, with officials conducting assessments of alternative gold processing technologies aimed at protecting miners, communities, and the environment. The initiative forms part of Zimbabwe's broader drive to promote sustainable mining practices while improving gold recovery rates among small-scale miners, who contribute a significant share of the country's annual gold output. This week, officials from the Department of Metallurgy under the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development, the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), and the Planet Gold Zimbabwe Project visited mining operations in Mashonaland Central Province to evaluate potential sites for mercury-free processing centres. The assessment focused on Kuzivakwashe Mining Syndicate in Mazowe District and Chiweshe Rosa Mine, where technical teams are collecting baseline data and evaluating the suitability of cleaner gold extraction methods. Department of Metallurgy official Reginald Chidawanika said the exercise is part of a national programme aimed at developing and deploying affordable mercury-free gold processing technologies for small-scale miners. "The primary one is the leaching and precipitation method, where we use ordinary bleach and hydrochloric acid. When they are mixed together, they release chlorine gas, which dissolves the gold," said Chidawanika. "When the gold gets into solution, we can separate the gold-bearing solution from the siliceous gang material through filtration. After recovering the solution, the gold can then be reprecipitated using sodium metabisulfite." The process eliminates the need for mercury while maintaining effective gold recovery rates. Chidawanika said a second method is being considered for ore containing coarse-grained gold, which can be recovered through gravity concentration techniques. Under this system, miners mill ore and recover concentrates using conventional gravity equipment before further processing through technologies such as Falcon concentrators, Nelson concentrators, or Gemini tables. "After recovering the gold, it can be taken straight for smelting," he said. For miners dealing with ore that contains limited free gold, authorities are also assessing cyanidation and other leaching technologies that do not require mercury. Officials believe these methods can improve gold recovery while reducing environmental contamination and health risks associated with mercury exposure. According to Chidawanika, the proposed technologies are designed to remain accessible to artisanal and small-scale miners. He said the methods rely on readily available reagents and relatively simple processing equipment, making them suitable for widespread adoption across Zimbabwe's gold-producing districts. As part of the assessment programme, ore samples from selected mining sites have been sent to accredited laboratories in South Africa for detailed metallurgical testing and technical recommendations. "I would like to think that by year-end we would have established some of these methods at some of our small-scale mines because we are now at the stage of developing mercury-free technologies," Chidawanika said. Planet Gold Zimbabwe Project Manager Nyaradzo Mutonhori said the initiative is expected to reduce mercury consumption within the small-scale mining sector significantly. The project aims to cut mercury use by approximately 4.85 tonnes over the next five years, helping Zimbabwe align with global efforts to reduce mercury pollution and promote responsible gold mining. Mining experts say successful adoption of mercury-free processing technologies could improve environmental protection, strengthen occupational safety, and enhance the long-term sustainability of Zimbabwe's rapidly growing artisanal and small-scale gold mining industry. Mercury-free gold mining Zimbabwe

MUTARE, Zimbabwe – A teacher employed by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has appeared in court after allegedly defrauding two women of US$1,100 by falsely promising to secure them teaching jobs. Melline Chirinda (40), a teacher at St Joseph's High School in Mutare, was arrested by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) on Thursday and appeared before the Mutare Magistrates' Court on Friday, facing two counts of fraud. According to court documents, Chirinda allegedly misrepresented herself as having the authority and influence to facilitate employment within the education sector in exchange for cash payments from job seekers. In the first count, Chirinda is accused of approaching Mercylyn Gonouya (34) of Chigodora in January 2025 while allegedly using the name "Ms Martin." Prosecutors allege that Chirinda convinced Gonouya that she could secure a teaching post if she paid a "facilitation fee" of US$700. Believing the offer to be genuine, Gonouya reportedly paid US$550 towards the promised employment opportunity. After receiving the money, Chirinda allegedly became unreachable, stopped answering phone calls, and ignored messages. Investigations later revealed that the person identifying herself as "Ms Martin" was allegedly Chirinda, whom Gonouya reportedly identified through a Facebook account. Court records indicate that in February 2026, Gonouya confronted Chirinda in the presence of her husband and demanded a refund. Chirinda allegedly claimed the money had already been passed on to other individuals involved in the purported recruitment process. Following intervention by Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education officials, who reportedly summoned Chirinda on May 13, 2026, the US$550 was repaid in full. In a separate but similar incident, Chirinda allegedly took another US$550 from Tafadzwa Hellen Mutseyangwa (37), a self-employed resident of Mutare Rural Police Camp. Prosecutors allege that Chirinda promised Mutseyangwa a teaching post within a week after receiving the payment in January 2026. However, after obtaining the money, Chirinda allegedly became evasive and failed to provide proof that any recruitment process had taken place. The court heard that the second complainant has not yet recovered her money. The alleged fraud was reported to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission on May 20, 2026. Following investigations, ZACC officers arrested Chirinda on May 28. Authorities say the total amount involved in the alleged scam is US$1,100, with only half of that amount having been refunded. Chirinda appeared before the Mutare Magistrates' Court and was granted US$100 bail. She was remanded to June 15, 2026, pending further court proceedings. The case highlights growing concerns over employment-related fraud schemes targeting desperate job seekers, particularly within the education sector, where competition for teaching posts remains high. Authorities have urged members of the public to verify recruitment processes through official government channels and report any requests for payment in exchange for employment opportunities. Mutare teacher teaching jobs scam

BUDAPEST, Hungary – Defending champions Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) successfully retained the UEFA Champions League title after defeating Arsenal 4-3 on penalties following a thrilling 1-1 draw in the final at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest on Saturday. The victory secures PSG's second consecutive European crown and cements their status among Europe's elite clubs after winning the competition for the first time in 2025. Arsenal made the perfect start to the final when German forward Kai Havertz fired the Gunners into the lead in the sixth minute. The Premier League champions looked poised to claim their first-ever Champions League title as they frustrated the French side for much of the match. PSG, however, gradually grew into the contest and dominated possession as they searched for an equaliser. The breakthrough for PSG came in the 65th minute when Arsenal defender Cristhian Mosquera fouled Khvicha Kvaratskhelia inside the penalty area. French international Ousmane Dembélé calmly converted the resulting penalty to level the scores at 1-1 and set up a tense finish. Despite chances for both sides, neither team could find a winner during regulation time or extra time, sending the Champions League final to a penalty shootout. The shootout proved agonising for Arsenal supporters. Misses from Eberechi Eze and defender Gabriel Magalhães ultimately handed PSG the advantage, allowing the French champions to secure a 4-3 victory from the spot. Gabriel's miss proved decisive as his effort sailed over the crossbar, sparking jubilant celebrations among PSG players and fans inside the stadium. The defeat extends Arsenal's long wait for European club football's biggest prize. The North London club remains without a Champions League title despite reaching the final for the first time since 2006, when they lost to Barcelona. PSG's victory denied the Gunners the chance to complete a memorable season after ending their 22-year wait for a Premier League title. PSG's triumph makes them only the second club in the modern Champions League era to successfully defend the trophy after Real Madrid's run of consecutive titles between 2016 and 2018. Having already secured a fifth consecutive French league championship this season, the Parisian giants have now added another European title to an increasingly impressive trophy collection. For manager Luis Enrique, the victory marks another significant milestone as PSG continues to establish itself as one of the dominant forces in European football. PSG vs Arsenal Champions League final

HARARE, Zimbabwe – The Zimbabwean government has expressed concern over the declining number of graduates emerging from teacher training colleges, warning that the trend could worsen staffing shortages in schools at a time when the education sector is already grappling with recruitment and retention challenges. Speaking at the Nyadire Teachers College graduation ceremony, Deputy Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education Simelisizwe Sibanda said the low number of graduating teachers was worrying and called on communities to encourage more young people to pursue careers in education. The warning comes amid growing concerns about the attractiveness of the teaching profession, with many prospective students opting for alternative career paths due to low salaries, difficult working conditions, and limited incentives. Sibanda revealed that only 151 students graduated from Nyadire Teachers College this year, comprising 132 women and 19 men. "Only 151 students are graduating, 132 female and 19 male, representing 87 percent female graduates, making Nyadire the only teachers' college in Mashonaland Province producing the lowest figures nationally," he said. "When you look at our graduating figures for colleges this year, there is no college that is below 600. This is not a good picture for us as a province of Mashonaland, which is the hub of this nation." The deputy minister urged communities to support teacher training institutions by encouraging school leavers to enrol, arguing that local recruitment would help address teacher shortages in the province. Zimbabwe's education sector continues to face staffing pressures, particularly in rural schools where shortages of qualified teachers remain a persistent challenge. Teacher unions have repeatedly raised concerns over remuneration, arguing that current earnings are insufficient to meet rising living costs. Many educators receive salaries ranging from approximately US$400 to US$500, excluding allowances, while the cost of basic household needs continues to rise. The situation has contributed to concerns about teacher retention, with some educators leaving the profession or seeking opportunities in neighbouring countries and beyond. Rural schools are particularly affected, facing challenges that include inadequate infrastructure, overcrowded classrooms, staff shortages, and limited access to electricity and internet connectivity. Despite concerns over teacher enrolment, Sibanda praised Nyadire Teachers College for embracing the government's Heritage-Based Education 5.0 model and expanding Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes. The institution now offers practical skills-based courses, including a National Certificate in Professional Cookery and a National Foundation Certificate in Bakery and Food Preparation. "We request that communities take this programme, that is, TVET, very seriously, looking at the number of students that are graduating today. It is very low," Sibanda said. "We believe in making sure that in every community, we find all the necessary skills so that whenever we need someone to do something within the communities, we don't go to Harare." The deputy minister also commended the college for promoting inclusive education. According to Sibanda, the institution enrolled four students living with disabilities and five beneficiaries under the government's Web4Fees programme, which assists disadvantaged learners in accessing tertiary education. He further praised graduates who have contributed to community development initiatives, including the establishment of three primary schools in underserved areas of Uzumba-Maramba-Pfungwe, Mutoko, and Chipinge. The government's concerns highlight broader debates about the sustainability of Zimbabwe's education workforce as authorities seek to balance traditional teacher training with the growing emphasis on skills-based and vocational education. Education experts say attracting more students into teaching will require improvements in working conditions, career progression opportunities, and remuneration to ensure schools have adequate staffing levels in the years ahead. Declining teacher graduates Zimbabwe