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AfDB logo Reporter The Zimbabwean government has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing national development through closer collaboration with the African Development Bank (AfDB), following a successful 2025 Country Portfolio Performance Review (CPPR) workshop held in Harare. Acting Chief Director in the Ministry of Finance Mrs. Margireta Makuwaza emphasised the alignment of the AfDB’s Country Brief (2024–2026) with Zimbabwe's National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1, 2021–2025). “Through prioritising governance, accountability and private sector growth, we are laying a solid foundation for the next phase of our development journey under NDS 2, which aims to transform the economy to achieve upper-middle-income status by 2030,’’ she said. The CPPR is viewed not merely as an evaluation exercise but as a high-level forum for co-creating solutions, sharing best practices, and building a collective vision for impactful development.AfDB representatives outlined their strategic priorities, highlighting a financing portfolio of US$137 million aimed at fostering inclusive and resilient growth. Belinda Chesire, AfDB Country Programme Officer, reiterated the importance of the CPPR workshop. “This CPPR workshop is more than just an evaluation; it is a platform to co-create solutions, share knowledge, and build a collective vision for impact,” she said. Over US$40 million has been directed towards credit lines and trade finance facilities, unlocking opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These initiatives are designed to catalyse job creation and diversify the economy. Economist Gladys Shumbambiri-Mutsopotsi noted the AfDB’s increased engagement with the private sector is a game-changer for Zimbabwe’s SMEs. Through improving access to affordable finance and technical assistance, these facilities are laying the groundwork for sustainable growth. She also emphasised the significance of renewable energy projects, particularly solar feasibility studies at Kariba. “This will not only boost energy security but also attract fresh investments into our green economy.” The workshop culminated in the drafting of a new Country Portfolio Improvement Plan (CPIP), which will serve as a roadmap for project implementation and maximizing development outcomes. This plan will be submitted for approval to the AfDB’s Board Committee on Development Effectiveness and the Government of Zimbabwe. The successful convening of the CPPR workshop has reinforced the commitment between Zimbabwe and the AfDB to drive inclusive and sustainable growth.

The ZimTrade Logo Reporter ZimTrade , Zimbabwe's national trade development body, is leading an outward trade-seller mission to Beira, Mozambique, from July 1 to 3, featuring 15 export-ready Zimbabwean companies. This initiative follows a market scan conducted in March 2025, which identified significant export opportunities for local businesses. ZimTrade chief executive officer, Mr. Allan Majuru, said the study established immediate trade potential and long-term partnership opportunities that local exporters can capitalise on. "Mozambican businesses demonstrated particular interest in our construction materials, agricultural inputs and processed food products, with many importers actively seeking reliable suppliers," he said. The demand in Mozambique's booming construction sector is notable, with Zimbabwean exports including US$5.5 million in steel and US$1.4 million in timber in 2023. Additionally, Mozambique currently absorbs 19 percent of Zimbabwe’s cereal exports, along with horticultural products like tea, coffee, avocados, macadamias, and pineapples. ZimTrade emphasised that the outward mission offers businesses a platform to engage with Mozambican counterparts, explore trade opportunities, and secure export orders for products already in demand. The Zimbabwean delegation comprises companies from key sectors, including processed foods, horticulture, building and construction materials, agricultural inputs, PPEs (personal protective equipment), leather products, and services. The three-day mission will begin with a Trade and Investment Conference, bringing together business executives, trade support institutions, Mozambican government officials, and importers. This mission aligns with a May 2023 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ZimTrade, ZIDA, and Mozambique’s APIEX, which promotes joint participation in trade events and institutional exchanges. According to ZimTrade, the agreement encourages knowledge sharing, business matchmaking, and market expansion, which are the key objectives of the Beira mission. ZimTrade has been actively organizing similar trade missions, including a 2024 outward mission to Tete Province, which helped local firms establish distribution partnerships and even set up operations in Mozambique. This has strengthened trade ties between the two nations, supported by their geographic proximity. Mozambique is Zimbabwe’s fourth-largest export market, with data from Trades Map showing a 12 percent increase in exports from US$354 million in 2019 to US$398 million in 2023. Local companies have been benefiting from a bilateral agreement signed in 2005, allowing duty-free trade with 25 percent local value addition. Both countries are also part of the SADC Protocol, which aims to reduce trade barriers. Outward seller missions organised by ZimTrade align with the Government’s National Export Strategy of growing exports by 10 percent annually. Since its inception, President Mnangagwa’s administration has focused on promoting investment through engagement, re-engagement, and policy thrusts such as "Zimbabwe is Open for Business." The Government has demonstrated its commitment to economic growth, development, and investment promotion through a range of business-friendly economic policy reforms and the issuance of various incentives such as tax breaks.

Former President of Zambia Reporter This was a growing story, Click here for the Latest Update. The family of the late former Zambian President Edgar Lungu has stopped the transportation of his remains from South Africa, citing a breach of funeral arrangements by the government. According to family spokesperson Makebi Zulu, the return was suspended after the Zambian government allegedly issued a funeral programme without consulting the family. Family members have accused the government of reneging on crucial funeral agreements and say they have lost confidence in the state’s willingness to uphold its commitments. Lungu's remains were expected to arrive in Zambia on Wednesday, June 18, via a private charter, but according to family spokesperson Makebi Zulu, the return was suspended after the Zambian government allegedly issued a funeral programme without consulting the family. The development comes despite the two parties reaching an agreement earlier this week over key burial arrangements, including the choice of mourning venue, who would repatriate his body from South Africa and who should preside over the funeral. Despite accusing the government of failing to honour its part of the funeral agreement, Zulu said the family remains optimistic that the situation will be resolved and that the deceased will be repatriated and given a proper burial in Zambia. His body was expected to lie in state at his residence, then be taken to a conference centre in the capital, Lusaka, for three days starting Thursday, allowing the public to pay their respects. A state funeral had also been planned for Sunday, June 22, with official mourning ending on June 23. When the family and Zambian government initially came to a consensus, they announced that Lungu would be laid to rest next Monday, although it remained unclear whether his final resting place would be the official presidential burial site or his private residence.The former president died earlier this month while undergoing specialised medical care in South Africa. Online news sources

Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu Reporter The family of the late Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu has confirmed that the former head of state will be laid to rest in Johannesburg, South Africa, following a private family ceremony. In a statement issued today, Lungu family spokesperson Hon. Makebi Zulu said this is in accordance with the family’s wishes. Hon. Zulu expressed deep appreciation for the support received from across Africa and commended the South African government for its non-interference and respect for their decision. In the statement, Hon. Zulu said that the family seeks peace and unity amongst fellow Zambians during this time and thanked all friends, supporters, and members of the public for their understanding, compassion, and willingness to mourn the former Head of State. He further added that more funeral details will be communicated in due course. This development follows a statement by Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema where he acknowledged the dispute over funeral arrangements with the Lungu family and announced the official end of the mourning period on the 19th of June. Previously, the government had indicated that Lungu would be given a state funeral on Monday the 23rd of June, which the Lungu family had disputed, citing that the government had made the announcement without fully consulting them. Mr. Hichilema, however, said the government had made numerous efforts to engage the family and representatives of the late president in order to reach consensus in this matter.

Wheat Farmers Harvesting Reporter Mashonaland West province has emerged as the top region in Zimbabwe for wheat production, with 35,000 hectares dedicated to the crop out of a national total of 120,007ha. This significant achievement marks a record in wheat hectarage, with expectations of producing over 600,000 tonnes, signaling a move toward self-sufficiency in wheat production. The province is recognised as the country’s major contributor of agricultural produce due to its favorable weather patterns and rich soils. In recent cropping seasons, Mashonaland West has consistently surpassed its targets and was also named the best in the climate-proofed Pfumvudza/Intwasa scheme. A weekly update from the Agricultural Advisory and Rural Development Services (AARDS) revealed that the province has exceeded its target of 34,000ha. Statistics show that of the 121,000ha of wheat planted nationwide, Mashonaland West has planted 100 percent of its target. In comparison, Mashonaland Central follows with 27,874ha, exceeding its target of 27,000 hectares at 103 percent. Mashonaland East has planted 22,866ha, surpassing its target of 22,500ha at 102 percent. Other provinces, such as Manicaland, Midlands, Masvingo, Matabeleland North, and Matabeleland South, have also shown commendable performance, with each exceeding or nearing their respective targets. Mashonaland West continues to be the anchor of the country’s agricultural revolution. Farmers in the area have become torchbearers in various farming disciplines, striving to reposition Zimbabwe as a breadbasket. This progress is expected to reduce or eliminate the food import bill, with the ultimate goal of maintaining an upper middle-income economy by 2030, in line with the National Development Strategy 1. The province has proved to be the engine of agricultural production for various crops, including wheat, maize, tobacco, and cotton. Thanks to its favorable climate, numerous dams, and large silos in Banket and Lions Den, farmers in Mashonaland West have demonstrated their capacity to excel. This season, they are expected to produce over 600,000 tonnes of wheat, significantly above the annual target of 360,000 tonnes. The focus is now on implementing good agronomic practices to maximise productivity, supported by Farmer Field Schools (FFS). Zimbabwe is optimistic that this year’s winter wheat production will enhance food security, following various Government interventions and private sector engagement aimed at achieving a record harvest. The wheat crop benefits from support through private contractors, the National Enhanced Agricultural Productivity Scheme (NEAPS), presidential wheat support, and self-financed growers. For the past four seasons, Zimbabwe and Ethiopia have been the only two countries in Africa that have achieved wheat self-sufficiency. In a recent interview, Zimbabwe Commercial Farmers' Union (ZCFU) president Dr Shadreck Makombe expressed optimism about the commitment shown by farmers. “The commitment shown by farmers is good. They should maintain good agronomic practices so that they produce over five tonnes per ha in order to meet a target of 600,000 tonnes,” he said. He said that a holistic approach is needed to ensure that the target is met, warning that failure to do so will hinder productivity levels. “Fire guards should be established. Getting advice from extension workers is also key. Farmers should be on the lookout for quelea birds,” he advised. Agricultural Advisory and Rural Development Services acting director Leonard Munamati underscored the importance of good agronomic practices in unlocking the country's agricultural potential. “Good agronomic practices are the only ways to increase productivity. It is important to employ good agronomic practices to any cropping venture to unlock the value,” he said. Statistics from the ministry indicate that water resources will be sufficient for irrigation this season. Large dams have the capacity to irrigate 82,800ha, with on-farm dams capable of irrigating 25,600ha, rivers 9,800ha, boreholes 10,800ha, and vleis 1,000ha, totaling an impressive 120,000ha. Through collective efforts in wheat production, Zimbabwe aims to enhance its food security and ensure a sustainable agricultural future for the nation.

A Dam Under Construction Reporter In a bold move to secure the nation’s food future, Government is making significant strides in enhancing food security through the construction of major dams designed to improve irrigation across the country. These initiatives reflect a steadfast commitment to expanding irrigation development, with six completed dams now capable of irrigating a total of 56,650 hectares. Among these, the Tugwi Mukosi Dam in Masvingo stands out, with the potential to irrigate 40,000ha in Chivi and Chiredzi. Other key projects include the Marovanyati Dam in Manicaland, expected to irrigate 1,250ha in Buhera, and the Muchekeranwa Dam in Mashonaland East, which can cover 1,400ha in Makoni and Marondera. Additionally, the Mutirikwi Dam in Masvingo has a capacity of 3,000ha, while the Biri Dam in Mashonaland West can irrigate 4,000ha. The Lilstock Dam in Mashonaland Central is set to benefit 7,000ha across Bindura, Mazowe, and Mt Darwin. Government is also actively investing in ongoing projects, with dams under construction expected to irrigate an additional 38,953ha. Notable among these are the Semwa Dam in Mashonaland Central, projected to irrigate 12,000ha in Rushinga, and the Gwayi Shangani Dam in Matabeleland North, anticipating 10,000ha of irrigation in Hwange. Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development deputy minister Vangelis Haritatos emphasised the urgent need for climate-smart irrigation to counter the impacts of climate change. “Climate change is with us and damaging our country. The start is to ensure that we move away from rain-fed agriculture to climate-smart irrigation development. This is our ministry’s primary concern right now for the next two to three years,” he said. Acknowledging the challenges posed by an El Niño-induced drought that affected grain production, Cde Haritatos noted that approximately 230,000ha are currently under irrigation, which is less than the targeted 500,000ha. Government recognises the necessity of expanding irrigation capacity, aiming to develop an additional 270,000ha for agricultural use, primarily focusing on cereal crops to bolster food self-sufficiency. “Out of the 500,000ha that we are targeting, 350,000ha must be for cereal crops,” he projected, anticipating a yield of approximately two million tonnes of cereal. In addition to enhancing irrigation infrastructure, the Government is taking proactive measures to climate-proof agriculture through extensive dam construction. This initiative is crucial for building community resilience against climate shocks, particularly droughts. The establishment of Village Business Units is a pivotal aspect of this strategy, designed to serve all 35,000 villages across Zimbabwe. These units will revolve around solar-powered boreholes and drip-irrigated plots, benefiting about 50 households in each village. Plans for aggregation, value addition, and beneficiation are also in place to stimulate rural industrialisation and catalyse development. Dr Anxious Masuka reinforced Government’s commitment to improving food security. “Zimbabwe is projected to become drier in the decades ahead. The measures taken to climate-proof agriculture must, therefore, be consolidated and accelerated.” He highlighted the significance of sustainable agricultural models, referencing Zimbabwe’s success in conservation agriculture and its mechanisation efforts that have garnered attention beyond the region. Through these concerted efforts, Government is laying a solid agricultural foundation to support accelerated rural industrialisation and development, addressing both current needs and future challenges posed by climate change.

Water Weeds blooming in the water Reporter The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development has successfully implemented biological control methods to combat invasive aquatic weeds in Chinyika Dam 2 in Goromonzi and Lake Chivero. This innovative approach not only addresses the pressing issue of weed infestation but also promotes environmental sustainability, highlighting the potential of natural solutions in managing ecological challenges. Aquatic weeds, particularly Kariba weed ( Salvinia molesta ) and water hyacinth ( Eichhornia crassipes ), pose significant threats to Zimbabwe's water bodies. These invasive species reduce available oxygen, obstruct recreational activities, clog irrigation systems, and degrade water quality. They have emerged as a major concern for local communities that rely on these water sources for fishing, irrigation, and recreation. A Research Officer under Agricultural Research, Innovation and Specialist Services, Mr Nathan Sangombe, overseeing the biological control of invasive species, shared insights into the program initiated in March 2023. “We released a total of 1 400 Kariba weed weevils. The dam was 100 percent covered by the weed, so we developed a biocontrol program and released these weevils gradually over four months,” he explained. This strategic release was designed to ensure that the weevils could easily access one another for mating, thereby increasing their population densities effectively. As the seasons changed, Sangombe noted that the population densities grew slowly due to lower temperatures. “As we approached the warmer months of August and September, we began to see increases. By June 2024, we were getting approximately 2 000 weevils per square meter, leading to significant clearing of the weeds,” he said. The success of this biological control program underscores the effectiveness of natural methods in managing invasive species. “If people can witness how biological control works without chemicals, it shows the potential to restore aquatic ecosystems without harming the environment, humans, or livestock,” Mr Sangombe emphasised. This approach not only helps in managing the weeds but also aligns with global sustainability goals, promoting a healthier ecosystem. Community involvement is crucial for the success of such programs. Mr Sangombe urged all stakeholders to collaborate in the fight against invasive species. “For biological control programs to be successful, we need an integrated approach, with local communities taking ownership.” His call to action highlights the importance of collective effort in environmental stewardship. A researcher from Rhodes University, Dr Gerald Chikowore, said weed infestations affect water quality because they thrive in nutrient-rich systems. “The presence of these weeds indicates that the water is compromised,” he said. He stressed that the impact of invasive species extends beyond aesthetics, affecting the entire aquatic ecosystem and the organisms that depend on it. Farmers have also expressed hope for the future. Zimbabwe Farmers Union Vice President Mr Fidelis Gweshe said he is positive that the weeds will not thrive again. “I’m happy about the clear water we are now getting from the dam. We encourage our farmers to avoid farming too close to the dams to prevent further issues like siltation.” His comments reflect the positive changes occurring in the community as a result of the biological control efforts. As the Ministry continues its efforts to rehabilitate irrigation systems, they strive to enhance food security and livelihoods for farmers dependent on these water sources. Plant Protection Research Institute acting head, Mrs Grace Hama, said the programme is showing positive results. “We started our project of releasing bio-agents against water hyacinth in November 2023, and we are seeing positive results. We hope to clear the weeds within a year,” she said. The effective use of biological control methods not only revives vital water bodies but also sets a precedent for sustainable environmental management in Zimbabwe. By embracing natural solutions, the Ministry is paving the way for future initiatives that prioritise ecological balance and community involvement, ensuring that both people and the environment thrive together.

The Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) Reporter Farmers across Zimbabwe are set to benefit significantly from the Tobacco Inputs Credit Scheme (TICS) debt relief program recently announced by the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB). This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burdens faced by thousands of smallholder and communal tobacco growers who have struggled to repay their loans due to a range of economic challenges. Introduced in 2017, TICS was designed to support tobacco farmers, particularly those not under contract, by providing essential inputs on credit for production. However, many growers have encountered difficulties in managing their debts, stemming from economic hardships, climate shocks, and operational constraints that have hindered their ability to sustain viable tobacco production. In response to these pressing issues, TIMB is rolling out a comprehensive debt relief package that promises renewed hope and opportunity for farmers. Key measures of the scheme include a 50 percent discount on outstanding debts for TICS beneficiaries who make payments at any TIMB office by May 31. This significant reduction offers a pathway for farmers to regain their footing in the tobacco sector and continue their production efforts. TIMB CEO Emmanuel Matsvaire said the entity is committed to improving tobacco growing. “This initiative reflects our commitment to inclusive and sustainable agriculture, ensuring no farmer is left behind. By relieving this debt, we not only give these farmers a fresh start but also strengthen the foundations of the Tobacco Value Chain Transformation Plan (TVTP),” he said. Mr. Matsvaire emphasised that the goal of the TVTP is to improve livelihoods, promote local financing, and expand production to an ambitious target of 300 million kilograms annually. For elderly farmers over the age of 65 and the relatives of deceased TICS beneficiaries, additional support is also available. These individuals are encouraged to visit their nearest TIMB office with certified national identity documents to negotiate further discounts. This inclusive approach ensures that the most vulnerable farmers receive the assistance they need to thrive. TIMB has strategically positioned offices in Harare, Mutare, Rusape, Marondera, Chinhoyi, Karoi, Mvurwi, and Bindura to enhance accessibility for all tobacco growers. Farmers aged 65 and older must provide certified copies of their IDs, while families of deceased beneficiaries need to submit a certified death certificate, burial order, or an official letter stamped by both the village head and the councillor. This timely intervention comes amid the 2025 tobacco marketing season, where many growers are currently liquid and can take advantage of this opportunity to alleviate their legacy debt. As of May 16, 2025, farmers had already sold 189.2 million kilograms of tobacco worth US$639.7 million. While the season began slowly, Mr. Matsvaire noted a positive trend in tobacco deliveries, expressing confidence in reaching the target of 300 million kilograms this season. The first sale of Naturally Cured Virginia (NCV) tobacco, grown in Mangwe district, Matabeleland South, was made on May 22 at the Atlas Agri contract floor in Marula. This event marked a crucial milestone in the marketing season, signaling a renewed momentum for the sector. Zimbabwe Tobacco Growers Association (ZTGA) chairman George Seremwe praised the debt relief initiative. “It’s indeed good that these farmers should pay back the credits which emanated from TICS. We encourage farmers to heed the call and pay back to avoid any other challenges,” he said. He also highlighted the importance of future programs, calling for initiatives that incorporate farmer feedback to enhance recovery rates and overall effectiveness. Mr. Seremwe expressed appreciation for the Government’s efforts but urged TIMB to engage with farmer organisations when implementing such programs. “At times, these initiatives are done without the input of the farmers, which can lead to misunderstandings,” he noted. He encouraged collaboration between TIMB and farmers to ensure the success of the debt relief program and to bolster the resilience of the agricultural sector.

Kunzvi Dam Construction Reporter Construction of the Kunzvi Dam in Mashonaland East Province is on course and progressing remarkably well, now standing at 60 percent completion. The dam, located on the Nyagui River at the border of Murehwa and Goromonzi Districts, is among the key projects targeted for completion this year. The Kunzvi Dam is expected to provide water for the irrigation of at least 500 hectares of land for surrounding communities. It will also supply domestic water to the expanding Juru Growth Point, Cross and Musami Business Centres, and Majuru Business Centre in Goromonzi. Additionally, it aims to help alleviate water challenges in Harare by supplying water to the capital’s eastern suburbs. In a statement, Zinwa Corporate Communications and Marketing Head Mrs Marjory Munyonga indicated that current works on site include core material backfilling and placing, with a cumulative total of 734,890 cubic meters already placed on the left bank. “Fill placing is also in progress at the dam, and a total of 521,970 cubic meters has since been placed on the left bank to date, along with 60,430 cubic meters on the riverbed section. A cumulative 121,760 cubic meters of core material have also been placed on the riverbed section. Work is also progressing on the construction of the outlet works, which includes steel fixing on the D Tunnel, placing formwork on the D Tunnel overt panels, and placement and curing of concrete on the tunnel walls,” she said. Mrs Munyonga also noted that excavations on the spillway are ongoing, with 29,240 cubic meters excavated to date. Other activities at the construction site include the excavation and hauling of core and fill material from burrow areas A and F. Furthermore, the construction of houses for families affected by the construction of the spillway has begun at Matete Village.

GMB Silos Reporter The Grain Marketing Board (GMB) will establish up to 1,800 grain receiving depots across the country to enable farmers to sell their produce following a bumper harvest this year, Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Resettlement Minister Dr Anxious Masuka has announced. The minister disclosed this during a question-and-answer session in the National Assembly on Wednesday, warning farmers against selling their grain to unscrupulous buyers.  “We urge farmers to check prices before they sell their crops so that they profit from their labour.” The country is expecting a record 2.2 million tonnes of maize from the 2024-2025 cropping season. Dr Masuka said GMB gazetted prices for maize, millet, sorghum, and other small grains at US$376 per tonne, paying 70 percent in US dollars and 30 percent in local currency.  “We heard that in Mashonaland West, they have already gone there and are offering US$300 per tonne. We told the people to stop selling to these unscrupulous buyers and wait for GMB to tell them which depots to use.” GMB plans to operate 58 depots initially, increasing to 1,800 during the harvest period. In areas where GMB may not have a depot, collection points will be established at locations previously used for distributing social welfare food. To address the transport challenges faced by GMB, President Mnangagwa has commissioned 20 40-tonne trucks, while ARDA has been allocated 10 trucks for grain collection. Dr Masuka added, “In some areas, what is needed are mobile collection centres, which means GMB does not have to stay in those areas because there is not much to be collected on a daily basis like in other areas. So, people choose a date and agree with GMB to come and collect.” This comprehensive strategy aims to ensure that farmers receive fair prices for their harvest and improve the efficiency of grain collection across the country.

Lenacapavir Game-Changing Injectable HIV Drug Yeztugo.( Gilead Sciences Inc. ) Breaking – The US FDA Approves Twice-Yearly Injectable Drug to Prevent HIV The Food and Drug Administration has approved a breakthrough medication that reduces the risk of contracting HIV by 96 percent. Gilead 's Yeztugo, with the generic name lenacapavir (LEN), has been approved for prevention after highly successful trials in September found that it nearly eliminated the spread of the virus among patients. The drug demonstrated a 96 percent relative risk reduction versus HIV. It had previously been approved for the treatment of multidrug-resistant HIV. This milestone follows promising 2024 results from the PURPOSE 1 and PURPOSE 2 trials, which demonstrated the safety and efficacy of lenacapavir across diverse populations and settings. Administered just twice a year, lenacapavir offers sustained protection and adds to the growing range of HIV prevention options. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) has welcomed the approval by the United States Food and Drug Administration of injectable lenacapavir for HIV prevention. WHO currently recommends oral PrEP, the dapivirine vaginal ring, and long-acting injectable cabotegravir (CAB-LA) as options for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Lenacapavir’s discreet, long-acting formulation may help overcome key barriers such as daily pill burden, frequent clinic visits, and the stigma associated with HIV prevention. “This regulatory milestone brings us one step closer to expanding access to an innovative HIV prevention option in lenacapavir,” said Dr. Meg Doherty, Director of WHO’s Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes. “WHO plays a key role in supporting countries through guideline development, prequalification, and regulatory processes. We are working with partners and national authorities to ensure lenacapavir reaches people who need it most – quickly, safely, and equitably.” WHO guidelines for injectable lenacapavir will be released on 14 July 2025 during the International AIDS Conference in Kigali. Advocates around the world have since called for stakeholders to work together to ensure access to this intervention for those who need it most. “The approval of LEN is a much-needed boost for HIV prevention, given the strength of the science and the simultaneous disruption in HIV programs globally,” said Mitchell Warren, Executive Director of AVAC. “But US FDA approval is just one in a series of steps needed to ensure that injectable LEN can help reduce the 1.3 million new HIV infections that occur each year. Scientific progress only matters if innovation actually reaches people. LEN for PrEP is poised to re-shape the HIV response, but only if today’s approval is accompanied by bold, strategic, effective, and equitable rollout that reaches the populations that need access. Otherwise, the world risks squandering this PrEP opportunity, as it has with other PrEP options too often over the past 12 years.” In December, PEPFAR and the Global Fund announced a coordinated ambition to reach two million people within three years of product launch. This commitment signals an unprecedented opportunity to make PrEP access a reality. However, translating this ambition into impact—especially now amid the current political environment—is not without considerable challenges. FDA approval also paves the way for WHO prequalification, which can accelerate national regulatory approvals following endorsement by a stringent regulatory authority (SRA) and procurement by donor agencies like the Global Fund. In parallel, WHO is working with the European Medicines Agency (EMA) to support the Medicines 4 All (M4All) mechanism, which facilitates regulatory pathways in countries adopting lenacapavir. Source: Online News

Land Degradation in the outskirts of the city Reporter Zimbabwe today joins the global community in observing Desertification and Drought Day under the theme “Restore the Land. Unlock the Opportunities.” This event underscores the urgent need to rehabilitate degraded ecosystems and harness the socio-economic benefits of sustainable land management. Director General of the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), Mr Aaron Chigona, highlighted that this day affirms humanity’s collective responsibility to rejuvenate degraded landscapes. “This observance serves as a critical affirmation of humanity’s collective capacity to revitalise degraded terrestrial ecosystems.” For Zimbabwe, with its strong agricultural foundation, the call for land restoration holds significant national importance. “Our dedication to land restoration transcends mere environmental compliance; it represents a foundational pillar of our national developmental aspirations.” The challenges of land degradation and drought directly impact agricultural output and socio-economic stability, which are vital for achieving the Vision 2030 goals aimed at an empowered, prosperous upper middle-income society. Zimbabwe is committed to ambitious Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) targets, reflecting its dedication to reversing land degradation . Mr Chigona emphasised that these targets are not just numbers but embody a shared commitment to restoring wetlands, forests, and grasslands. The country will showcase its environmental leadership by hosting the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties (COP15) to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands from July 23 to 31, 2025. This event will underscore Zimbabwe’s commitment to conserving wetland ecosystems. Restoration efforts are integral to sustainable water management and climate resilience. “Through the restoration of our land, we are not solely improving environmental conditions; we are concurrently forging new avenues for economic expansion and human welfare,” said Mr Chigona. The potential benefits include the creation of green jobs, improved agricultural yields, revitalisation of eco-tourism, enhanced water quality, and stronger climate resilience. As the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030) progresses, Zimbabwe emphasises the importance of inclusive action. Mr Chigona urged all individuals, community leaders, corporations, and policymakers to engage in sustainable land practices and restoration initiatives. “Let us embark upon the restoration of our land, unlocking profound opportunities for a sustainable, resilient, and equitable Zimbabwe,” he concluded, reinforcing the collective responsibility towards achieving Vision 2030.