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FIFA is reportedly drafting “emergency towel guidelines” after AFCON chaos in Morocco, in a night of football defined by penalties, controversy and peak African satire ( image source ) FIFA has not officially confirmed it yet, but following Sunday night’s AFCON circus, sources close to “people who know people” say world football’s governing body is quietly drafting what may become its most African regulation yet: an Official Towel Policy for teams visiting Morocco ahead of the 2030 World Cup. Yes, towels. Not VAR. Not referees. Towels. The move follows what analysts are now calling The Great AFCON Linen Crisis, a match so chaotic it featured a near walkout, a Panenka-induced continental heart attack, and Morocco somehow walking away with the Fair Play Award — a decision that sent half of Africa into uncontrollable laughter. Let us start there. Morocco, the same team whose players spent the night auditioning for roles as undercover towel inspectors, were crowned the tournament’s paragons of sporting virtue. This came after repeated interference with goalkeeper Edouard Mendy’s towels, handled with the urgency usually reserved for nuclear launch codes. If irony were electricity, Africa would have powered three cities that night. Even FIFA president Gianni Infantino appeared to struggle with the moment. Cameras caught him watching Morocco’s missed penalty with the expression of a man who had already rehearsed his congratulatory speech and suddenly realised fate had other plans. The look was pure devastation — eyes wide, soul gone, vibes finished. Somewhere in Zurich, a speechwriter wept. But back to the towels. According to insiders, the proposed guidelines — informally dubbed VAR (Very Absorbent Regulation) — would require all visiting teams in Morocco to register towels before kickoff. Each towel would reportedly carry an identification number, undergo background checks, and confirm it has no “tactical intent.” Goalkeepers, traditionally the custodians of towels, would be the most affected. Under the draft rules, keepers may no longer place towels on goalposts without clearance from the fourth official, the match commissioner, and possibly customs. Towels folded “suspiciously” or used during penalties may be confiscated for “fair play inspection.” Opposition players, meanwhile, would be permitted to admire towels from a safe distance but prohibited from grabbing, relocating, or spiritually intimidating them. FIFA sources insist the policy is about “clarity and harmony.” African fans insist it is about the funniest night of football in recent memory. And then there was the Panenka. With history, pressure and 46 years of expectation bearing down, Morocco’s penalty taker chose elegance over survival. The chip floated. Time stopped. Africa screamed. Goalkeepers everywhere fainted. When it failed, Infantino’s face completed the moment — proof that even football presidents cannot outthink destiny. In the end, African football delivered exactly what it always does: chaos, comedy, controversy and culture. It was messy. It was dramatic. It was deeply unserious and completely unforgettable. As teams look ahead to Morocco 2030, one thing is clear: bring your boots, bring your tactics, bring your nerves. But above all — guard your towels.

A dispute has emerged within the family of late businessman Mutumwa Mawere after rival groups circulated conflicting funeral contribution messages, raising concerns over authority, respect and exploitation ( image source ) HARARE — A bitter dispute has erupted between two groups claiming to represent the family of late businessman and industrialist Mutumwa Dziva Mawere, following the circulation of competing messages over funeral contributions and burial arrangements. Mawere (66) died in Sandton, Johannesburg, last Thursday. While tributes continue to pour in from across Africa and beyond, the disagreement over who has authority to receive and manage funeral funds now threatens to overshadow his legacy. At the centre of the dispute are conflicting social media messages, including a memorial poster that lists contact persons and provides banking and mobile money transfer details for funeral contributions. One faction of the family has condemned the move as unauthorised, disrespectful and exploitative, insisting that no fundraising mandate has been agreed upon. Speaking on behalf of what he described as the immediate Mawere family, designated spokesperson Alex Mawere said relatives were shocked to see fundraising messages circulating while close family members were still mourning and arranging travel. “While we are still grappling with the demise of our beloved family member, we have sadly noted social media messages circulating to the effect that we are seeking funeral contributions,” Alex Mawere said. He described the conduct as deeply offensive, arguing that it violated both cultural norms and basic human decency. “Such a level of disrespect, especially during a moment like this, is not only inhuman but defies the very basic tenets of ubuntu,” he said. Alex Mawere stressed that the family had not discussed or authorised any fundraising, adding that Mawere’s stature made such an initiative unnecessary at this stage. “We hereby categorically state that as a family, we have not deliberated on the need to fundraise considering the stature of the man we are mourning today,” he said. While acknowledging that fundraising is common when death strikes, he warned against individuals exploiting the situation. “There is everything wrong when distant people capitalise on the death of our family member to cash in on unsuspecting members of the public.” He said the family had taken note of messages directing mourners to send money to an electronic wallet belonging to Shau Mudekunye via the Paystack platform, as well as to an Investec Bank Limited account held by Dr R G Machiri, without the family’s knowledge or consent. “These individuals are acting on their own accord without the knowledge of the family members,” Alex Mawere said, adding that the exclusion of recognised Mawere family members from the fundraising communications was “strange and disturbing”. He emphasised that burial arrangements and all financial matters related to the funeral are a collective family responsibility and cannot be decided unilaterally by individuals outside the immediate family. However, another group identifying itself as family issued a memorial poster last Thursday announcing that mourners were gathering at Number 62 Cambridge Road, Bryanston, Sandton, and expressing gratitude for public support. The poster stated: “As a family we are humbled by the support and grace that has been shown as we understand we share him with many people who loved and respected him.” WhatsApp messages seen by this publication show that the same group also circulated banking and mobile money transfer details for funeral contributions, a move that has further deepened tensions between the two sides. As uncertainty persists over who legitimately controls funeral arrangements and contributions made in Mawere’s name, the dispute now risks diverting attention from the life and legacy of Mutumwa Mawere — a towering figure in African business whose work earned admiration from business leaders, politicians and ordinary citizens alike.

Harare City Council says unpaid arrears of over ZiG 8.4 billion are crippling service delivery and has launched a debt amnesty drive to boost revenue and restore essential municipal services ( image source ) HARARE — The Harare City Council has attributed persistent service delivery failures to mounting unpaid debts, revealing that more than ZiG 8.4 billion is owed to the municipality. City officials warned that the arrears are severely undermining the council’s ability to maintain basic services across the capital. Mayor Jacob Mafume told a Town House briefing that residents account for roughly 80% of the outstanding debt, with businesses and government agencies making up the remainder. He said some liabilities date back more than a decade, creating sustained cash flow constraints that have affected operations ranging from waste collection to road maintenance. “Revenue collection is central to service delivery,” Mafume said, adding that the council aims to achieve an 80% revenue collection rate by 2026 as part of a phased financial recovery plan. To encourage repayments, the municipality has launched a time-bound debt settlement initiative offering a 20% discount to residents who clear outstanding balances between January 19 and February 13. The programme also includes incentives for payments made in foreign currency and special provisions for diaspora remittances. Mafume said a recent commercial sector blitz yielded encouraging results, but stressed that deeper systemic reforms are needed to restore fiscal stability. A key pillar of the recovery strategy is the full deployment of an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, which will integrate accounting, procurement and billing into a single, auditable platform. ( image source ) The mayor said the ERP system, which costs between US$360,000 and US$500,000 annually to maintain, is expected to strengthen financial controls and reduce corruption. “The systems have been manipulated. Super users have gone in to take money and create accounts,” Mafume said, adding that the council intends to prosecute individuals implicated in alleged financial abuse. He noted that previous weaknesses allowed unauthorised access to municipal finances, with reports suggesting that nearly 1,000 people had authority to open accounts — a governance lapse the new controls are meant to eliminate. Mafume acknowledged that Harare’s service delivery challenges are complex, citing historical underfunding, central government interference and politically appointed management structures that, he said, have at times undermined professional municipal leadership. He urged residents to take advantage of the debt amnesty and support transparency measures that would allow the council to prioritise investment in housing, infrastructure and essential services. Analysts say the success of the recovery plan will depend on sustained political will, firm action against internal malfeasance and the council’s ability to balance revenue collection with social sensitivity for vulnerable households. Harare now faces a critical test: convert arrears into resources for renewal, or risk further deterioration of the services residents rely on daily.

Zimbabwe’s mine workers, through NMWUZ, are demanding a US$1,200 minimum wage, higher bonuses and stronger social protections, citing rising mineral prices and worsening living conditions ( image source ) HARARE — The National Mine Workers Union of Zimbabwe (NMWUZ) has launched a forceful campaign demanding substantial pay increases and improved social protections for the country’s lowest-paid mine employees, arguing that wages have been eroded even as global mineral prices climb. Addressing journalists, NMWUZ president Nhomboka described 2025 as “a difficult and strenuous year” for mine workers, many of whom earn well below the national poverty datum line. He said rising commodity prices have not translated into better pay for frontline workers, leaving families unable to meet basic needs despite record revenues in some mineral subsectors. At the centre of the union’s demands is a minimum monthly wage of US$1,200 for the lowest-paid category, typically general hands and entry-level mine workers. Nhomboka said the figure reflects a baseline for decent living standards and is non-negotiable in the union’s forthcoming bargaining agenda. ( image source ) “Workers are the backbone of production. Their sacrifices must be recognised in their pay,” he said. The union is also pressing for a 100 percent increase in production-based bonuses, to be paid when company targets are met. Nhomboka argued that current bonus structures fail to reward productivity fairly and that linking pay more directly to output would incentivise performance while sharing gains more equitably. Beyond immediate pay demands, NMWUZ is pushing for structural reforms to protect workers’ long-term welfare. The union wants mining companies to introduce homeownership schemes for lower-grade employees, arguing that housing security would protect families when workers retire or die. “Too often, when a miner retires or passes on, the family is left destitute. A homeownership policy would provide stability and dignity,” Nhomboka said. Education equity is another priority. The union criticised what it called a bottleneck education system that privileges children of senior managers while lower-paid workers must fund school fees from meagre salaries. NMWUZ is urging companies to adopt policies that cover school fees and learning materials for all employees’ children, to level the playing field and break intergenerational cycles of disadvantage. The union’s proposals come amid growing tensions between labour and management in Zimbabwe’s mining sector, where profitability and export performance have improved but worker incomes have lagged. Mining companies have not publicly responded to the union’s demands, but industry sources say firms are likely to cite global cost pressures, operational margins and the need for negotiated settlements. Labour analysts say the NMWUZ campaign could reshape sector negotiations if it secures broad worker support and aligns with wider calls for social protection. For now, the union has signalled readiness to pursue collective bargaining and, if necessary, industrial action to press its case — a prospect that could test relations between companies, government and organised labour in a sector central to Zimbabwe’s economy.

Mbizi Police Post in Highfields is set to become a national monument, transforming a site of colonial torture into a living symbol of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, memory and national identity ( image source ) HARARE : THE recognition of Mbizi Police Post in Highfields as a heritage site marks a defining moment in Zimbabwe’s ongoing journey of remembering, reclaiming and honouring the long and painful road to freedom, a road soaked in sacrifice, courage and unbreakable resolve, and it is fitting that this recognition is unfolding under the Second Republic led by President Cde Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, a leader whose own life story is inseparable from the brutality, betrayal and resilience that defined the liberation struggle. Once a feared outpost of colonial repression, Mbizi Police Post now stands poised to be transformed into a sacred national monument, a place of conscience where the past speaks honestly to the present and the future, reminding Zimbabweans, especially the youth, of the true cost of independence. For decades, the name Mbizi evoked dread among African nationalists and the wider Highfields community, for it was here that the Ian Smith regime unleashed its machinery of terror in a desperate bid to crush African nationalism and block the inevitable march towards self-rule. Highfields itself was not an ordinary township; it was the political heartbeat of the nationalist movement, a crucible of ideas, organisation and resistance. It was home to towering figures of Zimbabwe’s liberation such as Father Zimbabwe Cde Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo, Cde Robert Gabriel Mugabe, the indomitable Cde Leopold Takawira, Cde Herbert Wiltshire Chitepo, Cde Edgar Tekere, Cde Simon Muzenda, Cde Enos Nkala, Cde Willie Musarurwa, Cde Nathan Shamuyarira and many other committed sons and daughters of the soil whose names are etched into the country’s liberation history. Within this charged political environment, Mbizi Police Post became a central node in the colonial state’s apparatus of surveillance, detention and torture. ( image source ) This police post was not merely a law enforcement facility; it was a calculated instrument of fear. Many liberation cadres and nationalist activists were dragged into its narrow cells, dehumanised and brutalised in ways designed to break both body and spirit. Among those who passed through the dark corridors of colonial detention in Highfields and its surrounding police facilities were cadres such as Cde James Chikerema, Cde Dumiso Dabengwa, Cde George Silundika, Cde Maurice Nyagumbo, Cde Cephas Msipa and many others whose sacrifices laid the foundation of the Zimbabwean nation. Survivors and historical accounts speak of cells with toilets inside that were flushed from outside, a cruel design meant to humiliate detainees and remind them constantly of their powerlessness under colonial rule. Beatings, psychological torture, sleep deprivation and intimidation were routine, and Mbizi became synonymous with suffering inflicted in the name of preserving white minority rule. It is against this grim historical backdrop that the efforts by Cde Andrew Makahamadze, Chairperson of the Southerton Constituency Community Development Trust (SCCDT), take on profound national significance. Upon recognising that the New Dispensation led by President Mnangagwa places deep value on preserving Zimbabwe’s history, especially sites that carry the emotional and political weight of the liberation struggle, Cde Makahamadze championed the idea that Mbizi Police Post should no longer remain a silent relic of pain but be consciously preserved as a heritage site. His vision dovetails seamlessly with President Mnangagwa’s long-stated desire to ensure that Zimbabwe’s liberation heritage is protected, documented and transmitted across generations, not as propaganda, but as lived history rooted in truth and sacrifice. ( image source ) President Mnangagwa’s personal experiences under the Ian Smith regime give particular moral authority to this national thrust. In a recent interview, the President opened up with rare candour about the betrayal, torture and suffering he endured during the liberation struggle. He recounted how in 1965 he was sold out to the Rhodesian authorities by a trusted comrade, Michael Mawema, an act of betrayal that changed the course of his life. Arrested in Highfields at Mawema’s house while writing a report for the late National Hero Cde Herbert Chitepo, President Mnangagwa was taken into the clutches of the colonial security system, passing through interrogation centres that included the notorious Butcher House A20 at Harare Central Police Station. There, he was subjected to gruesome torture, including severe beatings and water-boarding, methods designed to extract information and instil terror. He described torture chambers where detainees were hung upside down and beaten mercilessly, experiences that left deep physical and psychological scars. Sentenced to death by the Ian Smith regime, President Mnangagwa narrowly escaped the guillotine only because he was underage, just 18 years old at the time. That narrow escape from execution is not merely a footnote in history; it is a defining moment that shaped the character of a man who would later become Zimbabwe’s President. He spent a total of ten years in prison, including three years in solitary confinement, before being released and deported to Zambia. Yet even after such suffering, he never lost the zeal to see a free Zimbabwe. Instead, he studied law, rejoined the liberation struggle and emerged as one of the key architects of the nation’s independence. ( image source ) These experiences explain why, under his leadership, the Second Republic has placed renewed emphasis on liberation heritage sites and monuments. President Mnangagwa has often spoken about the need to tell Zimbabwe’s story honestly, to ensure that the youth understand the road that was travelled to independence, and to guard against historical amnesia. His decision to abolish the death penalty in Zimbabwe is deeply connected to his own brush with the gallows, a powerful example of how personal suffering has been transformed into progressive national policy. The proposed conversion of Mbizi Police Post into a national monument is therefore not an isolated project but part of a broader national vision. Zimbabwe today hosts the African Liberation Museum, which has rapidly become a major continental hub for African history, particularly the history of liberation movements. This continental outlook reinforces the importance of preserving local sites like Mbizi, which anchor the grand narrative of African liberation in specific places where real people suffered, resisted and endured. As Cde Makahamadze has rightly noted, Mbizi Police Station is of paramount importance due to its rich history, including the incarceration of liberation stalwarts. It is a place that played a significant role in the birth of Zimbabwe. Working in collaboration with the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe, the SCCDT has taken concrete steps to document and preserve this painful yet sacred history. The Government is now finalising the nomination dossier that will be submitted to the line Ministry, paving the way for Mbizi Police Post to be officially declared a national monument through a Government Gazette. This process reflects the State’s clear intention to keep alive the memory of the liberation struggle, not as a static museum piece, but as a living lesson in resilience, unity and patriotism. As Zimbabwe moves forward under the Second Republic, the transformation of Mbizi Police Post from a symbol of colonial brutality into a heritage site of national pride sends a powerful message. It affirms that the pain endured by liberation cadres was not in vain, that the stories of dehumanisation and resistance will not be buried, and that the nation remains committed to honouring those who suffered so that Zimbabwe might be free. In preserving Mbizi, Zimbabwe is not reopening old wounds for their own sake; it is ensuring that history is confronted honestly, that sacrifices are acknowledged, and that future generations understand that independence was hard-won through blood, tears and unwavering courage. Mbizi Police Post thus stands as a silent witness to the past and a bold statement of the present, a place where memory, leadership and national purpose converge in the ongoing story of Zimbabwe.

Fews Net warns that persistent heavy rains and saturated ground across southern Africa could trigger flooding, with eastern Zimbabwe among high-risk areas as authorities urge vigilance ( image source ) The Famine Early Warning Systems Network (Fews Net) has issued a warning that continued heavy rains and saturated ground conditions across southern Africa could result in dangerous water accumulation and flooding, with torrential downpours forecast for next week. In its latest outlook, Fews Net said intense and persistent rainfall is expected in eastern, northern and central parts of the region, while western and southern areas are likely to receive lighter showers. The agency warned that southern Mozambique, eastern Zimbabwe, eastern South Africa and east-central Madagascar face heightened flood risks due to anticipated torrential rainfall. The report noted that consecutive weeks of rainfall have already worsened ground conditions and triggered flooding in Zambia, Madagascar, Malawi and Mozambique, with the situation expected to persist. Over the past week, moderate to heavy rainfall continued across northern and eastern southern Africa, including eastern Zimbabwe and southern Mozambique. South-central Africa, which includes Zimbabwe, has recorded rainfall levels ranging from 120% to more than 200% of normal in many areas. In contrast, western and southern regions such as Angola, western Namibia, southwestern South Africa and southern Madagascar have experienced below-average rainfall, estimated at between 1% and 80% of normal levels. ( image source ) In Zimbabwe, the Department of Civil Protection reported that heavy rains during the 2025–26 season have already resulted in 70 deaths, left 51 people injured and destroyed more than 1,000 homesteads. Manicaland has been the most affected province, with 510 households impacted and 41 fatalities recorded. Mashonaland East reported 192 affected households, Mashonaland Central 130, and Mashonaland West 127, with the latter recording 19 deaths. Authorities have urged communities in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and to follow guidance from disaster management officials as the rainy season continues.

A Mutoko man was electrocuted while attempting to steal a live ZETDC armoured cable at an Econet booster station and was later arrested at hospital, a court heard ( image source ) MUTOKO — A suspected electricity cable thief was electrocuted while attempting to steal a Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) armoured cable in Mutoko, a court has heard. The accused, Gift Maodza, was arrested at Mutoko Hospital where he had sought medical attention for injuries sustained during the incident. He later appeared before Mutoko magistrate Ms Caroline Matanga. Prosecutor Mr Ray Tsikayi told the court that the incident occurred on November 3, 2025, at the All Souls Hospital Mission Econet booster station. Maodza allegedly acted in connivance with two accomplices who are still at large. The court heard that Maodza climbed an electricity pole and attempted to cut a live ZETDC armoured cable. In the process, he was electrocuted and fell to the ground. Despite sustaining serious injuries, he reportedly managed to flee the scene. Police were alerted after Maodza later presented himself at Mutoko Hospital for treatment, leading to his arrest. The stolen cable was not recovered, and investigations are continuing to locate and arrest the remaining suspects. The case highlights the dangers associated with electricity infrastructure vandalism, which authorities say continues to disrupt essential services and endanger lives.

Zimbabwe’s export earnings surged to US$8.57 billion in 2025, narrowing the trade deficit by 69% as record monthly exports signal growing momentum towards an export-led economy ( image source ) HARARE — Zimbabwe’s export sector is gaining strong momentum, marking a significant step towards an export-led growth model as rising earnings and record monthly performances sharply narrow the country’s trade deficit. According to the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat), cumulative export earnings for January to November 2025 reached US$8.57 billion, representing a 27% increase from US$6.74 billion recorded in the same period in 2024. Over the same period, the national trade deficit narrowed by 69%, declining from US$2.1 billion in 2024 to US$644 million in 2025. October and November 2025 marked a historic milestone, with exports reaching US$1 billion in each month for the first time. If current trends persist, Zimbabwe’s merchandise exports are projected to reach US$9.12 billion by year-end, surpassing the national target of US$8.1 billion. At this level, exports would account for approximately 19% of GDP in 2025. Data indicates a gradual structural shift in the export base. Value-added exports rose 29%, from US$404 million in 2024 to US$522 million in 2025, while service exports increased 12% to US$485.6 million. ZimTrade said the growing share of value-added exports strengthens earnings potential, supports job creation, and improves resilience to external shocks. Market diversification remains a key driver of performance. The United Arab Emirates emerged as Zimbabwe’s largest export destination, with exports surging 71.6% to US$4.16 billion, largely driven by gold shipments. South Africa accounted for 22.8% of exports, while China ranked third at 16.9%. Regional trade also recorded growth, with exports to Mozambique rising 13% and Zambia increasing 1.8%. Several sectors recorded strong gains during the period. Building and construction materials surged 292% to US$96.3 million, driven mainly by steel products. Manufactured tobacco exports grew 17.5% to US$109 million, while arts and crafts exports rose to US$13.1 million, reflecting growing niche market demand. However, performance was uneven across sectors. Unmanufactured tobacco exports declined 3.9% to US$1.12 billion, processed food exports fell to US$88.8 million, and pharmaceutical exports dropped sharply by 28% to US$3.6 million. Overall, Zimbabwe’s export performance in 2025 signals meaningful progress towards an export-led economy. Analysts caution, however, that sustaining and broadening these gains will require addressing structural weaknesses, including limited industrial depth, continued reliance on primary commodities, and high market concentration.

Red wine is a type of wine made from dark-colored grape varieties - (red grapes.) The color of the wine can range from intense violet, typical of young wines, through to brick red for mature wines and brown for older red wines. When God created the garden of Eden, His intention was for us to preserve , prosper and multiply it. Amongst other delicacies in this majestic garden, He gave us grapes which we, today enjoy in various ways. And after earth was destroyed by the flood, Noah remembered to resuscitate the vineyard which symbolises God’s people,peace and prosperity. Wine is not just a drink in the Bible, but a sign and symbol of wealth, salvation, life, joy and abundance. Even the wealthiest King Solomon is said to have owned a vineyard which he leased out to tenants in exchange for pieces of silver. The red juice comes with immense health benefits which we shall explore today. One writer, “Great minds drink alike!”. Wine is a drink that also symbolisés happiness and long lasting relationships. To every thing there are lots of seasons but wine is usually shared during merry times. Will you join me today as we appreciate a taste of wine and how it may influence our health and intellect. Here’s hoping we are all having a good night’s sleep. Wine is a drink that finds itself on most dinner tables. It embodies its origin, reflecting unique geography, climate, and history, making a place's story tangible in a bottle. Most of our wines in Zimbabwe travel all from the south right into our glasses. Talking about origins, I once had the privilege of visiting Cape-town, the hub of wine tourism, and left with a memorable cheese and wine tasting experience. If you plan to visit Cape Town, let me share a few wine tasting tips. You take a look at the glass, tilt it against the white background to observe the colour, clarity and viscosity. Then gently swirl the wine to release aromas. Now smell it by taking a deep deliberate sniff. Finally sip a little to let it coat your palate. You will notice some sweetness, acidity, tannins and the body. Wine is indeed a culture. As you go about wine shopping, don’t forget to use your download various application to check on the quality. The list is endless, from Wine republic , Viniou, Vivino, Vintellect, Winestudy to wine scanners. This ‘happy juice’ is mentioned 231 times in the Bible. The first miracle performed by Jesus Christ was at the wedding of Cana where he turned water into wine. This was not just wine, but the most hygienic liquor ever made. Grapes were crushed by foot way back in the day, to make wine. (Isaiah 63: 2-3). If there was a liquor board during those times, this miracle would certainly have gone viral. Fast forward we see Jesus breaking bread and drinking wine at the last supper, instructing them to “do this” often, in remembrance of him. The global wine industry is a multi-hundred-billion-dollar market valued around $515 billion in recent years. This industry is an important economic pillar and engine for tourism across the world. Wine production involves harvesting grapes, de-stemming and crushing, pressing, fermentation, clarification, aging and storing, filtration, blending, and bottling . Below is a table of some of the most expensive wines ever sold in the world. So what are some of the health benefits of red wine? Research suggests that drinking red wine in moderation may alleviate some chronic ailments like cardiovascular disease, hypertension and certain types of cancer. Red wine has been part of social, religious, and cultural events for centuries. Cardiovascular health A 2019 review reported that drinking red wine is linked with a lower risk of coronary heart disease which is a leading cause of disease and death in the United States. The authors concluded that red wine might have cardioprotective effects. Excess alcohol can how ever , directly harm the heart. Gut Health Scientists have linked the bacteria that live in your gut to how well your body breaks down food, your immune system health, and even your brain function. One researcher describes polyphenols found in red wine as “rocket fuel for your gut microbes.” In a recent study, lead researcher Prof. Spector and his team found that participants who drank red wine regularly had a more diverse gut microbiome. Importantly, they also write that "even rare consumption may be sufficient" to increase diversity. Type 2 diabetes Another 2015 study has shown that drinking a glass of red wine with dinner “modestly decreases cardiometabolic risk” in people with type 2-diabetes and found that a moderate red wine intake is usually safe. Scientists believe that the ethanol in wine plays a crucial role in metabolizing glucose and that the nonalcoholic ingredients may also contribute. However, more research is necessary to confirm the findings. Blood pressure Researchers have established that resveratrol may reduce blood pressure and increase high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL). Additionally it’s said that red wine compounds called procyanidins help keep the blood vessels healthy. It is however, important to note that drinking too much alcohol can still cause high blood pressure,,arrhythmia, or an irregular heart rhythm. Brain damage after stroke A study revealed that resveratrol might help protect against secondary brain damage after stroke or central nervous system injury. This is due to its positive effects on inflammation, oxidative stress, and cell death. The resveratrol also helps reduce oxidative stress and cell death in rats with traumatic brain injury. Restoration of Sight Research shows that resveratrol may also help prevent vision loss by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Dementia Researchers have found an increased risk of dementia in people who abstained from drinking wine. The authors stated that this might be because of the neuroprotective effects of polyphenols and other compounds in wine that can reduce inflammation and alter the lipid profile in the body. Depression Red wine is a happy juice and here’s why. Resveratrol may be able to increase the level of serotonin in the brain, which might help reduce the symptoms of depression. Other compounds contained in wine may help regulate how serotonin transmits within the brain, a mechanism that can malfunction in cases of mood disorders. However, alcohol might also make depression worse in some cases. It also depends on your biological makeup. Liver disease Alcohol is a known cause of liver complications. However, some contexts link moderate red wine consumption to good liver health. Research suggests that modest alcohol intake, particularly wine, is linked with lower liver fibrosis in people with no-alcoholic fatty liver disease. This study defined modest alcohol intake as up to 70 grams (g) or less than 2.5 ounces (oz) per week. Drinking can also increase uric acid which can damage the liver. Researchers need to complete more studies to determine the complex effects of moderate red wine intake on liver health. People who currently have liver disease should avoid alcohol altogether. Longevity As discussed above, drinking red wine in moderation may reduce the risk of some chronic diseases, which may help people live longer. Research has established that moderate red wine consumption can increase the expression of longevity-related genes. It may also improve metabolic health. There could be more health benefits of red wine to the body , mind and soul. For today l have only featured the above. Research continues on this subject and we are always encouraged to keep informed and knowledgeable. Next time you go wine shopping, choose, red wine ! It contains more resveratrol which appears to underlie many of the health benefits highlighted above. As l sip off, be reminded to take red wine in moderation. It may have certain health benefits as research indicates, including boosting heart, gut, and brain health. This is because it contains compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-improving effects. However, there is no safe level of alcohol to consume and drinking alcohol can cause serious health problems. I would have tagged a few culprits on this note but let’s leave it here and be merry ! People are encouraged to consult their doctor before consuming alcohol or limit their consumption. We can also experience similar benefits from eating grapes and certain berries instead of wine. Disclaimer! This article intends to share with readers research backed benefits of red wine. The information shared is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Dr Precious Sibiya , is a certified Wellness Practitioner, stroke survivor and advocate for natural healing and lifestyle. Contact her for more Wellness insights on Email : precioussibiya2014@gmail.com +263775369467

Six Hurungwe men have been convicted by the Karoi Magistrates Court for destroying a house belonging to a man claiming to be a spirit medium ( image source ) Six men from Hurungwe in Mashonaland West have been convicted and sentenced for destroying property belonging to a local man who claimed to be a spirit medium, following a violent dispute rooted in land allocation and traditional beliefs. The accused — Kingrose Madyara (58), Wilson Kamudungwe (58), Norman Kavande (50), Progress Madyara (35), Tapiwa Chipazaure (35) and Liberty Chipazaure (30) — appeared before the Karoi Magistrates Court, where each was handed a 10-month prison sentence, largely suspended under various conditions. Three months were suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour, one month was suspended on condition that restitution is paid to the complainant, while the remaining six months were suspended on condition that each accused completes 210 hours of community service. According to the State, the incident occurred in April 2025 in the Joga area, where the six men allegedly acted together to demolish a two-roomed house belonging to the complainant, using their bare hands. The court heard that tensions had been building since 2023, after the village head allocated land to the complainant, who claimed spiritual entitlement to the area. The complainant told the court that he was possessed by the spirit of Goremusandu, a renowned spirit medium, and that this justified his claim to the ancestral land. The accused rejected the claim, accusing him of being a “scammer,” before taking the law into their own hands and destroying his property. In passing sentence, Magistrate Patience Madondo strongly cautioned against vigilantism, emphasising that disputes involving land and traditional beliefs must be resolved through lawful channels. She said taking the law into one’s own hands undermines justice, social order and community harmony. The ruling highlights persistent tensions in some rural communities where traditional belief systems intersect with modern legal frameworks. It also reinforces the judiciary’s stance against vigilante justice, underscoring that property and land disputes, regardless of cultural or spiritual context, must be addressed within the confines of the law. The complainant is expected to receive restitution, while the convicted men will serve their community service sentences.

Chief Justice Luke Malaba will retire in May 2026 after more than four decades in the judiciary ( image source ) HARARE — Chief Justice Luke Malaba will retire from his positions as Judge and Chief Justice on May 15, 2026, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has announced. His last working day will be midnight on May 14, with commemorative events planned to mark the conclusion of his judicial career. The JSC said a special sitting of the court will be held in his honour on May 14, followed by a dinner to be attended by colleagues, constitutional bodies and regional dignitaries. Malaba’s retirement is in line with Section 186(1) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, which requires judges, including the Chief Justice, to retire at the age of 70 unless they opt to extend their tenure by five years. Malaba exercised this option in 2021, extending his service to 2026. The commission dismissed reports suggesting that Malaba had refused to proceed on pre-retirement leave, clarifying that such leave is discretionary rather than mandatory. “There is no legal obligation for the Chief Justice to go on pre-retirement leave. Characterising the exercise of a lawful discretion as a ‘refusal’ is erroneous and creates a false impression of impropriety,” the JSC said. ( image source ) Chief Justice Malaba has served in the role since March 27, 2017, having previously been Zimbabwe’s first Deputy Chief Justice from 2008 to 2017. His judicial career spans more than four decades, beginning as a prosecutor in 1981 before progressing through the ranks to magistrate, High Court judge, Judge of Appeal, Deputy Chief Justice and Chief Justice. Beyond Zimbabwe, Malaba served as a judge of the COMESA Court of Justice from 2005 to 2016 and is currently President of the Conference of Constitutional Jurisdictions of Africa (2024–2026). He is widely regarded as a human rights advocate, having delivered landmark judgments that strengthened protections for vulnerable groups. During his tenure, the Judiciary expanded access to justice, simplified court rules and introduced the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS), which digitised court processes nationwide. He also established the Judicial Training Institute of Zimbabwe to strengthen judicial capacity through structured training programmes. Chief Justice Malaba holds law degrees from the University of Warwick (1974) and the University of Zimbabwe (1982). His retirement will mark the end of an era in Zimbabwe’s judiciary, closing a career defined by reform, regional engagement and a sustained commitment to justice.

Zimbabwe’s education ministry has tightened subject capping under the Heritage-Based Curriculum, limiting O-level learners to nine subjects and A-level students to three, citing quality learning and reduced academic overload ( image source ) HARARE — The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has announced stricter enforcement of subject capping for both Ordinary and Advanced Level learners beginning this year, limiting O-level candidates to a maximum of nine subjects and restricting A-level students to the standard three subjects. The move marks the full implementation of the Heritage-Based Curriculum, which the ministry says is aimed at improving quality of learning, reducing academic overload and aligning Zimbabwe’s education system with international standards. The policy clarification follows renewed public debate sparked by the exceptional performance of Mukudzei Ziveyi, a Pamushana High School student from Masvingo Province, who scored 56 points in the 2025 A-level examinations after sitting for 12 subjects well beyond the prescribed limit. While Ziveyi’s achievement was widely celebrated, critics argued that such extreme subject loads risk encouraging unhealthy academic pressure and undermine the principle of focused learning. Director of Communication and Advocacy in the ministry - Taungana Ndoro ( image source ) Addressing the issue, Director of Communication and Advocacy in the ministry, Taungana Ndoro, said the policy on subject limits is clear and already revised to enforce strict caps. “To ensure depth of learning, quality of instruction and the integrity of learner outcomes, the ministry has instituted a cap on the number of examinable subjects. The standard is a maximum of nine subjects at Ordinary Level and three principal subjects at Advanced Level in the Heritage-Based Curriculum,” Ndoro said. He explained that the policy is intended to promote mastery and competency rather than the accumulation of excessive subjects, which can lead to burnout and superficial learning. “This decisive move aims to promote profound understanding and competency, prevent excessive academic overload and align all schools and learners with a standardised, manageable curriculum framework,” Ndoro added. Under the previous arrangement, government subsidised 55% of the cost of final examinations for up to seven subjects at O-level and three subjects at A-level, with learners paying full fees for any additional subjects. In Ziveyi’s case, the student revealed that he studied under intense pressure, often sleeping late, taking only brief breaks between examinations, and attending just one lesson per week per subject. Pamushana High School was reportedly required to seek special clearance from Zimsec to avoid timetable clashes. Ndoro emphasised that the three-subject cap at A-level is aligned with both local and international tertiary education requirements, noting that most universities require a maximum of 15 A-level points for admission into degree programmes. He also dismissed claims of grade inflation, maintaining that improved pass rates reflect better teaching methods, learner commitment and targeted interventions rather than compromised standards. “We remain confident in the robustness and credibility of our national examination system,” he said.