Search Results

Liverpool Fans supporting at Anfield( image source ) Every season, the FA Community Shield arrives as football’s ceremonial curtain-raiser — a Wembley showpiece pitched as a friendly yet competitive indicator. This year’s dramatic shoot-out between Liverpool and Crystal Palace rekindled an old conversation: is the Shield cursed? The superstition goes like this: lift the Community Shield and you dramatically lower your chances of winning the Premier League. Fans and pundits love the idea, and this year the debate has been back in the headlines. The statistics are useful fuel for the theory. An in-depth look at Shield winners in the Premier League era finds that only about eight of 33 winners went on to claim the title in the same season (roughly 24%). Conversely, several teams that lost the Shield later lifted the league trophy. TheAnalyst’s recent breakdown makes the pattern stark: four of the last six teams to lose the Shield went on to win the Premier League. That inversion is the numeric backbone of the “curse” meme. Fans treat superstition like seasoning. Liverpool supporters, for once, celebrated not  winning the Shield. On social media, some Reds quipped that skipping the winner’s podium reduced the risk of a seasonal jinx; others toasted a “moral victory,” arguing that a pre-season win can lull teams into overconfidence. Crystal Palace fans, meanwhile, reveled in Wembley glory and shrugged off the hex. For them, the Shield was tangible history — their first ever — and worth celebrating regardless of the statistics. Why do such beliefs persist? Football is emotional, and humans are pattern-seekers. Anecdote becomes evidence if you look long enough. The “curse” is less about causality and more about narrative: fans want meaning before the grind of a 38-game campaign. Managers see the match as fitness and tactical preparation, but for supporters, a superstition is a shared ritual — a mix of hope, banter, and group identity. Superstition is woven into football culture worldwide. Some teams refuse to wash kits after a winning streak; players stick to the same pre-match meal or music; managers avoid certain dugout seats. From Atlético Madrid’s Diego Simeone ignoring “jinxes” to Liverpool fans carrying the same scarf to every away game, rituals can be both playful and deeply ingrained. So, is the Community Shield cursed? Statistically, the evidence is thin. Winning or losing can influence team mentality, but the league season’s outcome depends on far more — injuries, form, depth, and sheer luck. What the Shield reliably offers is drama and debate. Whether Palace’s Wembley triumph sparks a title challenge is almost beside the point; for fans, the story and superstition are entertainment in themselves.

Sudanese refugees near the border in Adre, Chad. More than 2 million people have fled Sudan to neighbouring countries since April 2023. © UNHCR/Ying Hu Reporter Two of Africa and the Middle East’s most acute humanitarian crises—Sudan and Gaza—remain desperate focal points for international concern. Both theatres are characterised by intense fighting, mass displacement, and severe shortages of food, medicine, and shelter; recent reporting underscores an accelerating humanitarian toll and the challenge of delivering aid in contested zones. In Sudan , the conflict that began in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has continued to fragment the country. After episodic control of Khartoum and shifting frontlines, recent assessments show that SAF operations have pivoted to other regions, including Kordofan, while airstrikes and ground offensives continue to spark mass displacement and localised famine risks. ACLED and humanitarian updates note ethnic mobilisation in certain regions and a steep increase in civilian casualties and displacement. Humanitarian access remains constrained by security risks and damaged infrastructure, complicating aid delivery. Gaza  remains in a perilous humanitarian state with critical shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. International agencies and press reporting describe blockaded supply routes, severe damage to civilian infrastructure, and a health system operating beyond capacity. The situation has triggered global diplomatic interventions and repeated calls for expanded humanitarian corridors, but access remains contested and intermittent. Reuters and other outlets have highlighted the hunger crisis alongside the destruction of essential services, warning that without sustained and secure relief operations, the civilian toll will rise further. Both crises share common features: protracted violence that impedes humanitarian corridors, politicised access to assistance, and the growing use of food and essential services as leverage in conflict. These dynamics raise profound protection concerns for civilians and complicate the international community’s ability to respond. In Sudan, the multiplicity of armed actors and shifting alliances produces a complex security environment that hampers UN and NGO operations; in Gaza, the intensity of urban fighting and restrictions on cross-border logistics present similar operational nightmares for relief agencies. Recent field reporting highlights how aid shipments are delayed, diverted, or unable to reach the most vulnerable populations. The international response—from emergency funding to diplomatic pressure—has been significant but uneven. Donor appeals are chronically under-funded relative to need, and political constraints often shape where and how assistance can be deployed. Humanitarian analysts stress the need for sustained, predictable funding, protected humanitarian access, and durable political solutions that prioritise civilian protection. The long-term prospects for both Sudan and Gaza hinge not only on ceasefire arrangements but on international coordination to rebuild infrastructure, restore services, and address the root political grievances that fuel cycles of violence.

Reporter The FORUS Party( image source ) The submission of a petition by the FORUS Party  to Zimbabwe’s Parliament has ignited fresh debate over the country’s electoral laws and the rights of its diaspora. With over three million Zimbabweans living abroad, the petition demands immediate reforms to the Electoral Act  to allow their participation in national elections. FORUS President Manyara Muyenziwa  framed the issue as one of justice and representation. “They do not ask for privilege—they ask for participation,”  she said, pointing to the diaspora’s economic contributions and civic stake in the country’s future. The petition argues that current laws violate constitutional guarantees and perpetuate systemic exclusion. While Parliament has yet to respond, the petition has already galvanised support among civil society groups and legal experts. FORUS has pledged to continue mobilising diaspora communities and pressuring lawmakers to act before the 2028 elections . The party’s push signals a growing demand for inclusive governance and electoral accountability. Political analysts suggest that the petition could reshape the national conversation around citizenship and participation. With the 2028 elections looming, parties may be forced to clarify their positions on diaspora voting, potentially influencing campaign strategies. FORUS’s move is seen as a strategic effort to redefine the electorate and expand democratic engagement.   Below is the Petition in full:    Copied To: 1. Chairperson, Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) 2. Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs 3. Minister of Finance and Economic Development   SUBJECT: URGENT REQUEST FOR LEGAL REFORMS TO ENABLE VOTING RIGHTS FOR ZIMBABWEANS IN THE DIASPORA I. INTRODUCTION: A DECADE OF CONSTITUTIONAL NEGLECT We, the FORUS Party, representing the collective voice of millions of disenfranchised Zimbabweans both at home and abroad, hereby petition the Parliament of Zimbabwe to immediately grant voting rights to Zimbabweans residing in the diaspora.For too many years, the State has been in wilful defiance of a binding Constitutional Court order and its own treaty obligations, and an estimated 3.2 million citizens—nearly 25% of our nation's total citizenry— excluded from participating in general elections. This systematic exclusion was even recently observed during the 2023 Harmonised Elections and condemned by credible international observers (including the EU EOM). The on-going disenfranchisement is not a matter of logistical challenge but of political will. It is an unconstitutional, economically unjust, and internationally condemned practice that undermines the very foundation of our Republic. We do hereby demand definitive legislative and administrative action before the 2028 electoral cycle begins. II. BACKGROUND: A PATTERN OF SYSTEMATIC DISENFRANCHISEMENT The exclusion of the Zimbabwean diaspora from the electoral process is not an oversight; it is codified in discriminatory law and sustained through executive inaction, in direct violation of domestic and international law. A. Domestic Legal and Judicial Violations: * Electoral Act [Chapter 2:13], as amended in 2022: Section 23(3) of this Act unconstitutionally limits the right to a postal ballot to only those citizens abroad on state duty and their spouses. This creates an unlawful class distinction, affording a fundamental right to a select few while denying it to millions of ordinary citizens. This provision is the primary legislative tool of disenfranchisement. As a signatory, Zimbabwe is bound by Principle 7.4, which mandates member states to "take all necessary measures and arrangements to ensure that all eligible citizens are given an opportunity to exercise their right to vote." The SADC Parliamentary Forum's 2023 election report explicitly cited Zimbabwe's failure to implement diaspora voting as a "flagrant breach of this principle." Moreover, Article 17(1) of the Charter, which Zimbabwe has ratified, obligates State Parties to "promote, protect and preserve the principle of the right to participatory democracy." The blanket exclusion of a quarter of the population directly contravenes this core tenet. III. THE COMPREHENSIVE CASE FOR REFORM A. Constitutional & Judicial Imperatives: The Foundation of Our Law The current legal framework is constitutionally indefensible. Provision Violation Sec 56(3) Unlawful discrimination on the grounds of location Sec 67(1) Violation of universal adult suffrage CCZ 1/2013 Sustained contempt of the Constitutional Court   Detailed Explanation: * On Section 56(3) (Equality & Non-Discrimination): This section guarantees every person equal protection and benefit of the law, expressly forbidding unfair discrimination. By creating a system where a citizen in Harare can vote but a citizen in Johannesburg cannot, the state is discriminating based on geographic location, which is not a constitutionally permissible basis for limiting a fundamental right. * On Section 67(1) (Political Rights): This section guarantees every Zimbabwean citizen the right to vote in all elections "peacefully, freely and fairly." The term "universal adult suffrage" implies that the right extends to all citizens who meet the age requirement, regardless of their location. The current system violates the principle of universality. * On Regional Precedents: Our position is supported by progressive jurisprudence across Africa. In Richter v The Minister for Home Affairs (2009), South Africa's Constitutional Court ruled that logistical and financial difficulties are not sufficient grounds to deny citizens their right to vote. More pointedly, in Okiya Omtatah Okoiti v IEBC (2015), the High Court of Kenya not only affirmed the diaspora's right to vote but compelled the electoral commission to implement it within a strict 12-month timeframe, setting a precedent for time-bound judicial enforcement.   Zimbabwe’s violations are active and deliberate because legislation-wise the Electoral Act codifies discrimination by limiting external voting to Zimbabweans on government mission. More-so executive inaction persists despite CCZ 1/2013 ruling a; 12 year outstanding constitutional court order. Regional bodies (SADC, AU) have documented non-compliance. These breaches erode Zimbabwe’s legitimacy as a democratic state under African and international law. International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) As a party to the ICCPR, Zimbabwe is bound by Article 25, which states that every citizen shall have the right and opportunity to vote at genuine periodic elections without "unreasonable restrictions." The exclusion of millions of citizens who are otherwise eligible constitutes a textbook example of an unreasonable restriction, placing Zimbabwe in breach of its core human rights obligations. B. Economic Justice: No Representation for the Nation's Economic Engine The economic argument for diaspora voting is overwhelming. The Zimbabwean diaspora is not a detached entity; it is the economic lifeblood of the nation. * Annual diaspora remittances now exceed US$1.8 billion, officially accounting for nearly 20% of GDP when informal flows are considered. * According to a 2024 World Bank report, these funds directly support 63% of all urban households and a significant portion of rural families, providing a crucial social safety net that the state cannot. This constitutes the most extreme form of fiscal tyranny: the state relies on the diaspora as its largest single source of foreign currency and a pillar of its economy, yet denies this very constituency a voice in how that economy is governed. It is a flagrant violation of the democratic principle of "no taxation without representation." IV.Proposed Solutions & Practical Roadmap for Diaspora Voting in Zimbabwe Zimbabwe’s continued exclusion of its diaspora from national elections is a constitutional breach that undermines democratic participation. With over 115 countries successfully implementing diaspora voting, the barrier is not logistics—it is political will. This roadmap offers a phased, accountable, and inclusive strategy to enfranchise Zimbabweans abroad. A. Legislative & Structural Reforms: Anchoring the Right to Vote To restore constitutional integrity, we propose time-bound legal reforms that guarantee diaspora voting rights. Action Deadline Responsible Body Repeal Electoral Act Section 23(3) 30 November 2025 Minister of Justice Enact a comprehensive Diaspora Voting Law 31 March 2026 Parliament Delimit a minimum of 5 non-territorial Diaspora Constituencies 31 March 2026 ZEC   Key Legal Provisions to Include: * Universal suffrage for all Zimbabwean citizens abroad. * Legal recognition of postal, electronic, and in-person voting abroad. * Special accommodations for voters with health or legal constraints. B. Administrative Implementation: Building the Voting Infrastructure Legislation must be matched by robust administrative action. The following steps ensure operational readiness. Task Agency Deadline Establish a fully-resourced Diaspora Voting Unit ZEC 1 December 2025 Publish a detailed, costed implementation plan ZEC 28 February 2026 Allocate dedicated funding in the National Budget MoF 31 October 2025 Train and appoint consular staff as voting officers MoFA 15 January 2026     Voting Mechanisms to Deploy: * Registration at embassies and consulates. * Secure postal and electronic voting systems. * Designated polling stations abroad. C. Civic Education & Voter Engagement Empowering the diaspora requires more than access—it demands awareness. * Launch civic education campaigns tailored to diaspora communities. * Disseminate multilingual materials on voting rights and procedures. * Host webinars and town halls via embassies and diaspora networks. D. Strategic Partnerships & Representation To ensure legitimacy and reach, collaboration is essential. * Partner with diaspora civil society organizations for registration and mobilization. * Explore formal representation through diaspora constituencies in Parliament. * Engage diaspora leaders in policy consultations and electoral planning. E. Monitoring, Evaluation & Global Benchmarking Transparency and accountability must guide implementation. * Establish an independent oversight body to monitor progress and compliance. * Conduct regular audits and publish public reports. * Benchmark against international best practices to ensure security and efficiency.   V.Final Plea & Conclusion FORUS Party calls upon the Parliament of Zimbabwe to recognize and restore the constitutional rights of Zimbabweans living abroad. Diaspora voting is not a privilege—it is a democratic imperative. For too long, millions have been excluded from shaping the future of the nation they love and support. This is a plea for inclusion, not confrontation. We urge our elected leaders to act with courage and integrity: to amend the laws, allocate the resources, and initiate the public processes necessary to enfranchise the diaspora. The legitimacy of our democracy depends on it. Let this petition be a turning point—a moment where Zimbabwe chooses unity over division, progress over delay, and justice over silence.

Massive Australian protest over Gaza ( image source ) Reporter In a major diplomatic development, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese  announced today that Australia  will formally recognise the State of Palestine  during the upcoming 80th United Nations General Assembly  in September, joining a growing list of Western nations taking the same step. Australia’s recognition—years in the making—marks both the culmination of domestic policy shifts and the result of mounting international pressure. Canberra framed the decision as a way to re-energise the two-state solution , conditional on the Palestinian Authority  implementing governance reforms, disarmament, exclusion of Hamas from political power, and the holding of free and fair elections. With this move, Australia aligns with countries such as France , the United Kingdom , Canada , Spain , Norway , Slovenia , Ireland , and Malta , which have either recognised Palestine or pledged to do so. In total, over 140 UN member states —primarily from Asia, Africa, Latin America, and parts of Eastern Europe—have long recognised Palestine. Other potential European supporters, including Belgium , Portugal , Finland , and Luxembourg , are closely monitoring developments. Meanwhile, nations like Japan , Germany , and Italy  remain cautious, citing security concerns and advocating for diplomacy over symbolic gestures, though public opinion in these countries could shift if the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens. The announcement has sparked immediate reactions. Prime Minister Albanese insisted the move was “not a mere gesture” , but a deliberate step toward peace, in line with commitments from the Palestinian Authority to recognise Israel and pursue democratic reforms. In sharp contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu  condemned the decision, warning that it rewards “terrorism” and could undermine ongoing hostage negotiations. Domestically, opinion is split. Supporters describe the recognition as overdue justice for the Palestinian people, while critics argue it risks politicising foreign policy and straining ties with the United States . For Zimbabwe  and other African nations, the decision is significant—it demonstrates that even traditionally Western-aligned powers are reassessing their positions amid stalled peace talks and worsening humanitarian crises. It also highlights the role of middle powers  in shaping international norms and contributing to conflict resolution. Ultimately, Australia’s recognition carries symbolic and strategic weight. It shifts diplomatic dynamics, strengthens Palestine’s leverage in multilateral forums, and reinforces calls for accountability and human rights protections . As African Union members and many of Zimbabwe’s neighbours already recognise Palestine, the question now becomes not if , but when , more countries will follow.

CAF Club Rankings ( image source ) Reporter The latest Confederation of African Football (CAF)  five-year club rankings, which determine seeding for continental competitions, have been released — and once again, no club from Zimbabwe has made the top 20 . This continued absence underscores long-standing issues with performance, funding, and football infrastructure in the country. CAF’s ranking system evaluates club performances across all CAF competitions over the 2019–20 to 2023–24 seasons. Points are awarded based on match results, progression in tournaments, and overall consistency. Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly  tops the list, followed by Tunisia’s Espérance de Tunis , Morocco’s Wydad Casablanca , and South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns . Zimbabwe’s most storied clubs — including Dynamos , Caps United , and Ngezi Platinum  — are conspicuously absent. Despite Dynamos F.C.’s proud continental legacy, which includes a 1998 African Cup final and a 2008 semi-final appearance, recent campaigns have been marked by early exits and minimal impact on the continental stage. The consequences are significant. Clubs outside the top tiers face tougher seedings , must navigate more preliminary rounds , and enjoy fewer competitive protections in CAF draws. Additionally, sponsorship deals and investor confidence are increasingly tied to continental visibility and consistent competition success — two areas in which Zimbabwean teams currently fall short. The frustration among fans is palpable. Social media debates often lament missed opportunities, administrative inefficiencies, and the widening gap in resources compared to other African football nations. As one Reddit user summed it up: “What are the permutations… or are we just playing for pride…” Football analysts agree that revival will require urgent investment in youth development , coach training , and CAF-standard facilities . Retaining local talent and ensuring uninterrupted participation in CAF tournaments are also crucial for a turnaround. Without these reforms, Zimbabwe risks permanent relegation from continental relevance . The 2025 CAF rankings serve as both a stark warning and a call to action: resurgence is possible, but only through serious structural reform and sustained investment  in the nation’s club football system.

University of Zimbabwe Reporter In an unprecedented legal challenge, a University of Zimbabwe (UZ) lecturer has approached the High Court seeking to block the institution’s 44th Graduation Ceremony , set for August 15. Dr. Phillemon Chamburuka , representing the Association of University Teachers (AUT) , argues the university is preparing to confer degrees based on compromised exam results  following months of academic disruption caused by a prolonged lecturers’ strike. According to court filings, examinations were allegedly conducted, marked, and moderated without adherence to standard academic protocols. Key issues include lapses in invigilation, compromised moderation standards , and irregularities in teaching supervision and grading consistency. A confidential Senate report reportedly confirmed these flaws, while a May 27 memo from a Pro-Vice Chancellor  admitted “major gaps” in teaching and assessment but still recommended proceeding with exams to maintain the academic calendar. In his affidavit, Chamburuka warned: “The rights of both students and the integrity of the university’s academic programmes are under grave threat. To proceed with graduation under these circumstances will irreparably prejudice graduates whose qualifications may later be invalidated.” The lecturers’ strike, which began on April 16 , was triggered by salary erosion due to hyperinflation. The AUT accuses the UZ administration of reducing the institution to a “degree printing machine,” likening the upcoming graduation to a “pizza delivery service”  where degrees can be obtained without academic merit. Students remain divided. Some have attempted independent study during the disruption, while others—such as the chairperson of the Zimbabwe National Students Union’s Harare chapter —criticised the use of inexperienced contract lecturers to fill gaps, citing a loss of instructional quality and academic continuity. The High Court application seeks three remedies: Immediate suspension of all graduation preparations An independent forensic audit  of the 2024–2025 second semester’s academic processes A ban on conferring any degrees  until the audit findings are made public If the court rules in favour of the application, thousands of students could face indefinite delays in receiving their degrees. If rejected, the UZ risks further erosion of public trust  in Zimbabwe’s higher education system and potential damage to its academic reputation.

Palestinians scramble for aid ( image source ) Civilians in Gaza are enduring a humanitarian catastrophe that the United Nations describes as “a famine unfolding in real time.”  Since March 2, 2025 , Israel has effectively blocked most humanitarian aid  into the region, triggering severe food shortages, malnutrition, and deadly chaos at aid distribution points. Prices for essential goods have skyrocketed by up to 1,400% , and communal kitchens shut down in April  after the World Food Programme (WFP) announced it had depleted its stock. By early June , more than 66,000 children  were suffering from critical malnutrition, double the number recorded in April. These statistics, confirmed by UNRWA  and the Gaza Health Ministry , reflect a growing crisis for civilians—especially young children—trapped in one of the world’s most densely populated areas. Aid efforts remain severely hampered. Despite some restricted airdrops and land deliveries by international agencies, more than 1,373 Palestinians have died since late May while attempting to access food , often under fire or in stampedes. The UN has reported that over 50 people were killed  while seeking food at or near Israeli checkpoints. On August 4 alone , 74 Palestinians  reportedly died while trying to obtain aid— 36 at land points  and 38 near airdrop locations , according to a UN Security Council briefing . The cumulative death toll in Gaza  since October 2023 now exceeds 60,000 , according to the Gaza Health Ministry. UNICEF warns that an average of 28 children die each day —not only from ongoing airstrikes, but also from starvation-related illnesses . Aid organizations say these numbers are likely underreported due to the breakdown of communication and data systems. Meanwhile, ceasefire negotiations  facilitated in Doha  have collapsed. The talks—backed by the U.S., Qatar, Egypt, France, and Saudi Arabia —sought to broker a 60-day truce , facilitate a hostage exchange , and open secure humanitarian corridors , but no agreement was reached. The failure has dashed hopes of a coordinated aid operation. Hamas , under growing international pressure, has expressed conditional willingness  to coordinate humanitarian aid distribution with the Red Cross , provided that Israel halts strikes  and opens permanent aid corridors . Israel, however, continues to weigh military options. Deepening internal divisions  in its Cabinet complicate decision-making, with some members pushing for annexation or governance restructuring  in Gaza, while others warn that further escalation jeopardizes hostage safety  and global support . A group of former Israeli security leaders—including ex-Prime Minister Ehud Barak —has issued a rare public appeal urging the immediate cessation of the offensive , warning of “strategic drift” and growing moral and reputational costs  to Israel. International criticism is mounting. Leading editorials from The New York Times , The Guardian , and others have called Israel’s blockade and aid policies "untenable and unlawful,"  urging a ceasefire and humanitarian intervention . In parallel, more countries are moving to recognize Palestinian statehood , escalating diplomatic pressure on Israel and its allies. With diplomatic negotiations stalled and civilian suffering worsening daily , the situation in Gaza represents one of the gravest humanitarian crises in recent history.

The IAVI Logo ( image source ) A Phase 1 clinical trial  for a promising HIV vaccine candidate  has commenced in Zimbabwe and South Africa , marking a major step forward in the global fight against HIV/AIDS. The trial will evaluate immune responses in both HIV-negative individuals  and people living with HIV . In a joint statement, the lead organizations— Mutala Trust , ReiThera Srl , the Ragon Institute of Mass General Brigham, MIT, and Harvard , and IAVI —announced that the first doses  of the investigational vaccine, GRAdHIVNE1 , have been administered. The vaccine was first given on July 28, 2025 , at the Mutala Trust clinical trial site in Harare . The Gorilla Adenovirus Vectored HIV Networked Epitopes Vaccine (GRAdHIVNE1)  is designed to provoke strong CD8+ T cell responses , which are crucial for targeting and destroying HIV-infected cells. The candidate is being tested for its potential both as a preventive vaccine  and as a component in therapeutic or curative  HIV strategies. This first-in-human Phase 1 trial  will enroll around 120 healthy adults aged 18–50 , including 48 HIV-positive participants  who are stable on antiretroviral therapy (ART) . The trial aims to assess safety  and immunogenicity —the ability of the vaccine to provoke an immune response. Participants will receive one or two doses  of the vaccine or a placebo , and will be monitored for up to 19 months . The clinical trial, officially designated as IAVI C114 , is being sponsored by IAVI  and funded by the Gates Foundation . Clinical trial sites include: Mutala Trust, Harare, Zimbabwe Desmond Tutu Health Foundation (DTHF), Cape Town, South Africa Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI), Durban, South Africa Dr. Tariro Makadzange , Clinical Trial Lead at Mutala Trust, described the initiative as a landmark moment  for African-led health innovation. “We are edging closer to an HIV vaccine, made possible by global collaboration, with clinical trials conducted in Africa, for Africa, and for the world,” she said. Dr. Vincent Muturi-Kioi , HIV Vaccines Product Development Team Lead at IAVI, echoed this optimism: “This trial represents the future of vaccine development, rooted in Africa, built through global partnerships, and designed for the communities most affected by HIV.” The Ragon Institute  contributed to the design of the vaccine’s immunogen , using data from elite controllers —individuals who naturally suppress the virus without treatment. Dr. Gaurav Gaiha , a principal investigator at the Ragon Institute and Harvard Medical School, emphasized the importance of translating insights from long-term studies into real-world vaccine trials in high-burden settings like Southern Africa. Dr. Stefano Colloca , CEO of ReiThera, highlighted the significance of the GRAd platform , noting its potential to provoke potent CD8+ T cell responses  that may target the most vulnerable regions of HIV. The trial is expected to yield key insights into both preventive and therapeutic applications , setting the stage for future HIV vaccine candidates and interventions aimed at long-term viral control or eradication.

An Intersex Community Trust Banner ( image source ) Zimbabwe is moving forward with groundbreaking legislation to safeguard the rights and dignity of intersex individuals through the proposed Intersex Persons Bill . The draft law aims to offer formal legal recognition and protection to intersex persons, a historically marginalised group that has faced widespread societal stigma, discrimination, and exclusion. Intersex individuals are born with sex characteristics—such as chromosomes, gonads, or genitalia—that do not conform to typical binary definitions of male or female. In Zimbabwe, the experience of being intersex has often been marred by misrepresentation, isolation, and, in extreme cases, harmful accusations such as witchcraft, which impact not only individuals but also their families. The proposed legislation comes in response to Resolution 552  adopted by the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights  in March 2023. That resolution urged African nations to enact laws and policies that promote and protect the rights of intersex persons. Zimbabwe’s proposed bill signals a key step in aligning with those continental commitments. At its core, the Intersex Persons Bill promotes the creation of safe spaces , inclusive decision-making , and a commitment to leave no one behind . It seeks to ensure that intersex people are involved in shaping the policies that affect their lives, particularly on issues like medical decisions, legal documentation, and access to social services. The bill outlines several legal reforms, including: Formal recognition of intersex persons in official records Amendments to birth registration systems  to accommodate sex characteristics Protection against discrimination  in schools, employment, and healthcare Access to affirmative action programmes  to ensure equity Establishment of an advisory committee  to provide expert input on intersex-related issues According to the Intersex Taskforce report , which informed the bill, many intersex individuals in Zimbabwe remain invisible in public systems due to lack of legal recognition. This often affects their ability to access basic services or live freely without fear of stigma. The Intersex Persons Implementation Coordination Committee (IPICC)  has played a key role in public engagement and consultation around the bill, gathering input from intersex individuals, human rights organisations, and community stakeholders. Legal experts say that Zimbabwe’s constitution already mandates the protection of every person’s rights, and this bill serves to further clarify and extend those protections to intersex individuals. Advocacy organisations such as the Centre for Human Rights  have hailed the bill as a step forward in ensuring that Zimbabwe lives up to its human rights obligations, both regionally and globally. If passed, the Intersex Persons Bill would make Zimbabwe one of the few African nations with a specific legal framework aimed at promoting the rights and wellbeing of intersex people.

President Mnangagwa in Kenya ( image source ) Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa has arrived in Nairobi, Kenya, for a high-level regional summit focused on advancing peace efforts in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The summit, which convenes on Friday, August 1, is a Joint East African Community (EAC)–Southern African Development Community (SADC) Co-Chairs’ Meeting intended to harmonise mediation efforts for eastern DRC’s protracted conflict. President Mnangagwa, who currently chairs the SADC block, was received at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on Wednesday evening by Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi. He was accompanied by Zimbabwe’s Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister, Professor Amon Murwira, and other senior government officials. The Nairobi summit aims to consolidate separate diplomatic and military efforts previously led by SADC and EAC into a unified peace strategy. President William Ruto of Kenya, who is also the current EAC Chairperson, is expected to formally announce a panel of five facilitators mandated with steering negotiations between the Congolese government and various armed factions operating in the volatile eastern region. “This meeting reflects our shared commitment to African-led solutions for peace and stability,” said Mudavadi. He was joined by Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, Kenya’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe Gertrude Angote, and Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Kenya Winipeg Moyo. In recent years, both regional blocs have independently engaged in peace initiatives in the DRC. The Nairobi talks are seen as a milestone in unifying these efforts, with the summit expected to formally adopt the facilitators’ terms of reference and determine funding mechanisms for the mission. Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary, Mr Korir Sing’Oei, noted that the meeting will provide a critical platform to brief the newly appointed facilitators and coordinate efforts across the two blocs. “The time has come to harmonise our peace tracks and give this region a single voice,” he said. The panel of facilitators expected to lead the DRC peace process includes former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, former Central African Republic President Catherine Samba-Panza, former Ethiopian President Sahle-Work Zewde, and former Botswana President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi. Other key attendees include African Union Commission Chair Mr Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, SADC Executive Secretary Mr Elias Magosi, and EAC Secretary General Ms Veronica Nduva. The summit is expected to bolster regional cooperation and renew hope for a peaceful resolution to one of Africa’s most enduring conflicts.

Burkina Faso’s military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traore at the Kremlin in Moscow earlier this year ( image source ) Local sources report that about 50 soldiers were killed in a militant assault on a military base in Dargo , Boulsa Province, northern Burkina Faso , on Monday, July 29, 2025 . Around 100 militants , believed to belong to the Islamist group Jama’at Nasr al‑Islam wal‑Muslimin (JNIM) , stormed the base, overwhelming defenders before setting fire to facilities and looting equipment, according to a community leader and a resident  who spoke to the Associated Press  under anonymity. The Burkinabe military government  has not issued an official statement acknowledging the attack. Meanwhile, JNIM has been blamed for a series of violent operations across West Africa , especially in Burkina Faso, where armed groups now control large swaths of territory beyond the capital. In the broader context of Burkina Faso’s ongoing security crisis—and following multiple military coups since 2022—the attack underscores the junta’s inability to contain Islamist insurgency  despite reshuffled alliances under interim President Ibrahim Traoré . Context & Significance JNIM , an al-Qaeda affiliate, has significantly expanded its footprint across the Sahel, capitalizing on weak state structures and grievances to control vast rural areas in Burkina Faso and neighboring countries. Similar attacks in 2025—such as the Diapaga assault  in March, which killed over 60 soldiers—and deadly assaults on civilian groups like the Barsalogho massacre  in 2024 highlight a tragic pattern of escalating violence. At Dargo, the involvement of about 100 militants and the scale of destruction signals growing operational capacity by JNIM and intensifying threats to military infrastructure across the region. What Lies Ahead Without government acknowledgment or action , local communities remain exposed, and the fight against the insurgency may falter. The attack highlights the urgent need for regional and international support —particularly in intelligence coordination, military reinforcement, and civilian protection. As extremism deepens its roots, stabilizing Burkina Faso is essential  not only for national survival but for wider Sahel security and democratic recovery . Online Sources

Zimbabwean Musicians ( image source ) By Imbuwa Mubiana Zimbabwe’s music industry is fertile ground where dreams, talent, and ambition  find a stage. Thanks to new educational programs, local icons, and digital opportunities , music careers are more accessible than ever before. The industry now stretches beyond performance to include entrepreneurship, production, teaching, sound engineering, and media. A major turning point has been the nationwide rollout of Visual and Performing Arts (VPA)  in schools, allowing children from all backgrounds to explore their musical abilities early on. From school concerts to marimba competitions, VPA builds confidence and lays a strong foundation for future professionals. Institutions such as the Zimbabwe College of Music , Music Crossroads , and Zimbabwe Academy of Music  offer structured training in sound engineering, music education, and performance. Notable figures like Mono Mukundu , Sabelo Nyoni , and Bothwell Nyamhondera  exemplify the impact of combining passion with formal education. Talent-scouting programs such as StarBrite  also continue to uncover raw voices and guide them into professional careers. These avenues prove that passion, when paired with mentorship or formal training, can launch rewarding musical journeys. Performance remains the soul of the industry. Legends like Andy Brown  and Oliver Mtukudzi  have shown how blending traditional Zimbabwean instruments like mbira  and sungura  with urban styles can captivate both local and global audiences. The digital era  now allows performers to distribute music internationally via streaming platforms, expanding their reach far beyond borders. Behind every great performer is a great manager. Artist management  has become a profession of its own, with training programs like the Certified Artist Manager Program  led by Diana Eilish Nhera  preparing managers to handle bookings, branding, contracts, and digital strategy. These professionals are vital in navigating the fast-paced, competitive landscape of modern music. The engine behind visibility is promotion. Zimbabwean agencies such as Jacaranda Culture & Media Corporation (JCMCZW)  are redefining how artists are discovered, promoted, and launched. Today’s promoters build online buzz, engineer festival rollouts, and deliver viral campaigns that connect Zimbabwean acts to African and global playlists. Less visible, but no less critical, are stage managers  and production crews . Large-scale events like Jacaranda Music Festival  rely on professionals like Marshal Shonhai  to deliver seamless logistics. Though no formal training exists for stage management, many enter through volunteering , mentorship , or work with event companies like REPS , Events Evolution , and Tropical Sounds . Sound engineering  has grown into a prized field as artists increasingly aim for global production standards. Veterans like Vusa Moyo , Tami Bima , and Bothwell Nyamhondera  prove that technical skill and sonic innovation shape Zimbabwe’s musical identity. Education in this field, combined with practical experience, is critical for excellence. Producers  define the sound of generations. In the digital age, producers like Jusa Dementor  have found success selling beats internationally, proving that you can craft a hit in Harare that charts in Lagos or London. The online beat marketplace has opened the industry to those who combine creativity with digital savvy. Songwriting, film scoring , and jingle composition  now offer viable careers. Poets like Chirikure Chirikure  demonstrate how lyricism transcends genres. Brands and filmmakers rely on composers for distinctive sounds, and as Zimbabwe’s film and advertising sectors expand, demand for homegrown musical storytelling grows. DJing  has evolved into a respected, profitable career—fueling clubs, weddings, and festivals. Many DJs now produce their own music, host online shows, and build global followings through platforms like YouTube and TikTok. Their influence is expanding across media and digital content. Music education and journalism  are the industry's lifeblood. Educators at institutions like ZCM  and Music Crossroads  shape the next generation. Meanwhile, music journalists and cultural critics help document and validate Zimbabwean music on local and global stages, often spotlighting emerging trends and talent. 🎤 Challenges and Opportunities Despite growing momentum, barriers remain. Marketing music , securing media coverage , and funding tours —especially internationally—pose real challenges. Producers and engineers  must contend with high costs for equipment and software. Managers and promoters navigate fluctuating audience preferences and tight budgets. Yet, every challenge reveals new pathways. Digital platforms  have eliminated geographical limitations. Zimbabwean artists now enter African streaming charts , producers sell beats globally , and virtual concerts connect diaspora audiences  with local sounds. Programs in artist management, production, and promotion are preparing a new generation of skilled leaders . Adaptability is the new currency. Multi-talented figures like Prudence Katomeni Mbofana , a singer, academic, and head of Music Crossroads Zimbabwe , embody the modern music professional—someone who thrives by wearing many hats. Today’s musicians are producers, educators, marketers, and entrepreneurs. Entering the industry takes more than talent. Formal education , mentorship, hands-on internships, and volunteering at shows are key to growth. The rapid evolution of AI tools , digital mixing platforms , and streaming algorithms  means the next generation must keep learning constantly. Final Word Zimbabwe’s music industry is expanding rapidly—and it's more accessible than ever. Whether you’re a performer, engineer, DJ, promoter, teacher, or songwriter, there’s space for your talent. With education, experience, and adaptability, you can build a sustainable, impactful career . We want to hear your story.  If you’re in the music industry—whatever your role— submit your journey, challenges, or achievements  to Southerton Business Times and help inspire Zimbabwe’s next wave of musical talent.