Members of Zimbabwe’s Muslim community have laid down stringent conditions for the Chinese-owned Chengxi Mine before consenting to the exhumation of relatives buried at Peak Mine Cemetery in Shurugwi. The planned exhumations affecting dozens of graves dating back to the colonial era are part of efforts to pave the way for expanded gold mining operations in the Botorekwa Escarpments. Led by Sheikh Ishmail Duwa, president of the Halaal Certification Regulatory Board of Zimbabwe, the group met company representative Simba Manyeruke at the District Development Coordinator’s office in Shurugwi, where they presented a detailed list of demands. The Muslim delegation, comprising about 40 members who travelled from Harare, insisted that Chengxi Mine must bear the full cost of exhumation and reburial, “down to the last cent.” Their demands go beyond those of local families, who are set to receive transport assistance for relocating remains. The Muslim community argued that their religious and cultural obligations make the process significantly more complex and costly. Among their key demands are: Funding for Islamic burial rituals, such as sadaka Transport costs, including potential reburials in Malawi Provision of new tombstones to replace existing graves Financial support for food during family gatherings is linked to reburials The group also called for the engagement of a health expert to oversee the exhumation process, citing public health risks associated with disturbing graves that are up to 87 years old. They further requested that Chengxi Mine provide: Protective clothing for those participating in the exhumations, including gear to guard against snakes Funds for appropriate attire to be worn by family members during the process “These are not ordinary relocations. They involve religious, cultural and health considerations that must be respected,” one attendee said during the meeting. Takudzwa Pasipanodya, chief executive officer of Zi-Heritage and Environmental Consultancy, acknowledged that communication challenges had delayed outreach to affected families. “We were engaged by Chengxi company to exhume and relocate the graves we advertised, and realised that so many people did not get the information about the exhumation, so we are still reaching out,” Pasipanodya said. He emphasised that exhumations would only proceed with the consent and presence of families. “We only exhume if we agree with the family, and the family should be there. There are graves of people from Malawi and local Shona communities,” he added. The cemetery is believed to contain the remains of migrant workers from across Southern Africa, reflecting Zimbabwe’s mining history during the early 20th century. The dispute highlights the growing tension between economic development and cultural heritage preservation, particularly in mining communities where ancestral graves are increasingly affected by expanding operations. For now, the Muslim community’s position is clear: no exhumations will proceed without full compliance with their conditions, setting the stage for complex negotiations between mining interests and cultural stakeholders. Shurugwi grave exhumations

Today l come with a very brief but important health advice that can transform your life. As we grow older, our bones weaken. Digestion slows down. Our minds feel bloated. Parasites play with our gut. Wrinkles make permanent visits. That youthfulness starts to finally wave us goodbye. I found this amazing small seed that has the potential to reverse the above effects. Just a tablespoon a day can perform wonders. The secret is consistency, just like with prescribed medicine. Try it out. Chia seeds are a superfood for weight loss, digestion, and overall health. They are small, black and white super seeds that are rich in fibre, protein, and Omega-3. Why are Chia Seeds so important for our Health? (Chia Seeds Benefits) Rich in Omega-3, which supports brain function and reduces inflammation. Packed with antioxidants that protect cells from free radical damage. Balance blood sugar naturally. Better melatonin production that promotes deep sleep. Reduce acid reflux and improve digestion. Support heart health by lowering cholesterol and blood sugar. A good source of plant-based omega-3, which sharpens the brain and memory. Strengthen bones due to high calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus content. Hydration – Chia seeds absorb up to 12 times their weight in water. Rich in iron, which supports oxygen flow and combats fatigue. Support skin health – antioxidants and omega-3s promote a youthful glow. This superfood is great for people with gluten sensitivity. Supports gut health by reducing parasites and improving digestion. Boosts metabolism and supports weight management. Ways to take Chia (How to Use Chia Seeds Daily) Soak in water or your favourite juice and drink after 10 minutes Add to smoothies for a nutrition boost Add milk and honey to make a delicious pudding Add to homemade granola or muesli Use as a substitute for eggs when baking Sprinkle over yoghurt or fruits Who says wine or gin hate chia seeds Side Effects of Chia (Chia Seeds Safety Tips) Consuming chia seeds in excess or improperly can result in digestive stress (bloating, gas, running tummy) due to high fibre. Never consume chia seeds dry because you risk choking. Always soak them to get maximum benefits. They reduce blood pressure, so do not take them if you are on blood thinners. Recommended intake is 1–2 tablespoons per day. Disclaimer This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here. Dr Precious Sibiya is a mother, a certified Wellness Practitioner, a stroke survivor, and an advocate for natural healing and lifestyle. Contact her for more Wellness insights:Email: precioussibiya2014@gmail.com+263775369467 chia seeds benefits

At a busy maternity ward in Zvishavane District Hospital, a midwife records the details of a birth into a digital system moments after delivery, a shift that is transforming how Zimbabwe tracks maternal and perinatal deaths. Until recently, such information was recorded on paper and could take weeks or even months to reach decision-makers. Today, it is instantly available to health teams nationwide, enabling faster and more informed responses. For years, Zimbabwe’s maternal and perinatal death reporting relied on manual systems, often plagued by delays, incomplete records, and weak feedback mechanisms. These gaps limited the ability of health authorities to detect trends and prevent avoidable deaths, particularly stillbirths. In 2025, the Ministry of Health and Child Care in Zimbabwe rolled out the Electronic Maternal and Perinatal Death Notification System (eMPDNS), a digital platform designed to improve surveillance and response. The system allows midwives, nurses, and health information officers to input data directly at health facilities. Once submitted, the information is immediately accessible at the district, provincial, and national levels. “This real-time visibility is a game-changer,” said Dorcas Mutede. “It strengthens how we respond, improves the quality of care, and helps reduce preventable stillbirths.” Since the rollout, reporting rates have increased significantly from just 10% under the paper-based system to about 40% through digital submission in 2025. Data from the platform shows that approximately 44% of perinatal deaths recorded were stillbirths, highlighting the scale of the challenge. The system is also helping identify key contributing factors, including missed antenatal visits, delays in referrals, and challenges in managing foetal distress. Importantly, it enables better classification of stillbirths, distinguishing between deaths occurring during labour and those earlier in pregnancy, a critical step for targeted interventions. The availability of real-time data is already leading to practical interventions. In Makonde District, early analysis identified facilities with unusually high stillbirth rates. Health teams responded by conducting targeted audits, strengthening intrapartum monitoring, and providing mentorship to staff in affected facilities. Health experts say such data-driven responses are essential to improving maternal and neonatal outcomes. The World Health Organization (WHO) supported Zimbabwe in designing and developing the system as part of broader efforts to strengthen maternal and perinatal death surveillance. Following earlier implementation challenges, the system was revitalised with funding from partners, including the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) through Health Resilience Funds and Cordaid via the Global Financing Facility. “Timely, high-quality data is essential to prevent stillbirths,” said Zvanaka Sithole. “Zimbabwe’s experience shows how digital innovation can transform data into action.” Health analysts say Zimbabwe’s move toward digital health systems reflects a broader trend across Africa, where countries are leveraging technology to improve service delivery and outcomes. While challenges remain, including connectivity, training, and system coverage, the early results suggest significant potential to reduce preventable deaths. As the system expands, authorities hope it will continue to strengthen accountability, improve care quality, and ultimately save lives across Zimbabwe’s healthcare system. Zimbabwe maternal health system

Three people have died, and at least one confirmed case of Hantavirus has been reported among passengers aboard a cruise vessel sailing in the Atlantic Ocean, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Sunday. According to the WHO, six individuals have been affected in the incident. Three fatalities have been recorded, while another patient is in intensive care in South Africa. Although the WHO did not officially name the vessel, sources familiar with the situation identified it as the MV Hondius, which was reportedly travelling from Argentina to Cape Verde. “WHO is facilitating coordination between member states and the ship’s operators for medical evacuation of two symptomatic passengers, as well as a full public health risk assessment,” the organisation said. Authorities are also providing support to remaining passengers on board as investigations continue. A spokesperson for the Dutch government confirmed that two Dutch nationals were among the deceased, while media reports indicate that a British tourist is currently receiving treatment in South Africa. The UK’s Foreign Office said it is closely monitoring the situation and remains in contact with both the cruise operator and local authorities. The MV Hondius is a 107.6-metre polar expedition cruise ship designed to carry around 170 passengers in 80 cabins. It typically hosts approximately 150 tourists, along with dozens of crew members, guides, and onboard medical staff. The vessel is popular among bird watchers and adventure tourists, with some specialised voyages costing up to US$18,000 per person. Hantavirus is a rare but potentially fatal disease primarily transmitted through contact with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents such as rats and mice. Symptoms can include fever, fatigue, muscle aches, and, in severe cases, respiratory complications. While human-to-human transmission is uncommon, the WHO notes that it can occur in rare circumstances. “There is no specific cure for hantavirus infection,” a public health expert said. “However, early diagnosis and supportive care significantly improve survival chances.” The outbreak has raised concerns about disease control in confined environments such as cruise ships, where infections can spread rapidly if not contained. Health authorities are now focused on tracing contacts, isolating symptomatic individuals, and ensuring proper sanitation measures on board. Experts say the incident highlights the importance of strict hygiene protocols and monitoring in international travel settings, particularly in remote or expedition-style cruises. The WHO said it will continue working with international partners to assess the public health risk and coordinate response efforts. Passengers and crew are being closely monitored, with further updates expected as more information becomes available. hantavirus outbreak cruise ship

Police in Gweru have launched a manhunt for suspects believed to be circulating counterfeit United States currency across the city, raising concern among local businesses and residents. The alert was issued by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Gweru District Community Relations Liaison Office following a fraud incident in the Athlone suburb. According to police, the suspects, travelling in a Ford Everest SUV, allegedly defrauded a retail shop at around 6pm on 26 April by using fake US$100 notes. Authorities say the suspects were last seen using a mid-size seven-seater vehicle with registration number AHH 0950. “We are investigating a case involving counterfeit currency being passed at local businesses,” a police spokesperson said. “Members of the public should remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.” An eyewitness at the Athlone shop said the suspects appeared convincing and completed their purchase quickly. “They looked like ordinary customers, but later we realised the money was fake,” said a shop attendant. “It’s worrying because many businesses rely on cash transactions.” Police have warned shop owners, cashiers, and informal traders to exercise caution, particularly when handling high-denomination notes from unfamiliar customers. Experts advise checking for standard US dollar security features, including watermarks, embedded security threads, and colour-shifting ink. “Counterfeiters often target busy shops where staff may not have time to verify notes carefully,” said a financial crimes analyst. “Simple checks can prevent significant losses.” The ZRP is urging residents to report any sightings of the vehicle or individuals attempting to pass suspicious currency. Members of the public can contact police on 0773 643 249 or 0712 040 179 or report to their nearest police station. Authorities have also encouraged residents to share the warning widely to help curb the spread of counterfeit money in the district. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about financial fraud targeting small businesses in urban centres, where cash transactions remain common. Police say community cooperation will be key in tracking down the suspects and preventing further losses. “We rely on information from the public to bring perpetrators to justice,” the police said. Investigations are ongoing. Gweru counterfeit money

Four artisanal miners have died following a shaft collapse at Sabi Vlei Mine in the Mazvihwa area on Friday morning, in one of the deadliest mining accidents reported in the district this year. According to authorities, three miners died at the scene after being trapped underground, while a fourth succumbed to severe injuries at a local hospital after being rescued. Darlington Chokera, the District Development Co-ordinator for Zvishavane, confirmed the incident and said the bodies had been retrieved. “It is with a heavy heart that we confirm the death of four artisanal miners following a shaft collapse at a mine in Mazvihwa,” Chokera said. “Three died on the spot while one passed on at the hospital after sustaining serious injuries during an attempt to escape.” Community members, together with emergency teams from the Civil Protection Unit (CPU), rushed to the scene shortly after the collapse was reported. Rescue teams worked for several hours to recover the bodies from the rubble, highlighting the difficult and dangerous conditions often associated with artisanal mining operations. Residents in Mazvihwa described the tragedy as one of the worst incidents to hit the area in recent months, with the community now in mourning. “We heard the ground give way, and people started shouting for help,” said an eyewitness from the area. “By the time rescuers arrived, it was already too late for some of them.” Charlton Murove, chairperson of the Midlands Provincial Civil Protection Unit, said the government was deeply saddened by the loss of life and urged miners to prioritise safety. “While artisanal mining remains an important source of livelihood, operators must ensure that safety standards are observed to prevent such tragic incidents,” Murove said. Mining experts say shaft collapses are often linked to poor structural support, lack of proper equipment, and unsafe excavation practices common challenges in informal mining operations across Zimbabwe. “Artisanal miners frequently operate without adequate geological assessments or reinforcements,” said a mining safety analyst. “This significantly increases the risk of collapses, especially during deeper excavations.” The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said investigations into the incident are ongoing, with efforts underway to establish the exact cause of the collapse. Authorities are also working to identify the deceased, with names expected to be released once the next of kin have been notified. The tragedy has once again drawn attention to the dangers faced by thousands of small-scale miners across Zimbabwe, many of whom rely on informal mining for survival amid limited employment opportunities. Calls are growing for stricter enforcement of safety regulations, improved training, and support for artisanal miners to prevent further loss of life. Zvishavane mine accident

To the Tonga people, it is Mosi-oa-Tunya — “the smoke that thunders.” To the world, Victoria Falls stands as one of the Seven Natural Wonders and a pillar of Zimbabwe’s tourism economy. But the iconic site is now at the centre of mounting environmental concern, with activists warning that unchecked development and climate change are eroding its fragile ecosystem. A new report by Keep Victoria Falls Wild (KVFW) claims the UNESCO World Heritage Committee-listed Victoria Falls–Mosi-oa-Tunya World Heritage Site is “crumbling” under pressure from illegal tourism infrastructure. According to KVFW, official submissions by Zimbabwe and Zambia under the Joint Integrated Management Plans (JIMP) contain “gross inaccuracies,” including unclear maps that obscure protected boundaries. This, the report argues, has enabled developers to construct permanent structures in ecologically sensitive zones. Under UNESCO guidelines, the High Ecological Sensitivity Zone (HESZ), also known as the “Red Zone,” is strictly off-limits to infrastructure. This includes the falls, rainforest, and riverbank ecosystems along the Zambezi River. However, KVFW says developments such as a restaurant and a proposed lodge near Elephant Hills fall within this restricted area, potentially violating conservation laws. “Allowing such structures undermines the site’s World Heritage status,” the group warned, calling for demolition of illegal developments. Environmental experts say the impact is already visible. The rainforest surrounding the falls, sustained by constant mist, is under pressure from land clearing linked to lodges, golf courses, and tourism infrastructure. “Soil erosion is increasing along the Zimbabwean bank, leading to sediment build-up in the gorge,” said an environmental researcher familiar with the findings. “The forest is failing to regenerate at its natural rate.” Dense vegetation is reportedly being replaced by sparse bush, threatening biodiversity and wildlife habitats in one of Africa’s most unique ecosystems. The crisis is being worsened by climate variability. Flows along the Zambezi River have become increasingly unpredictable, ranging from about 3,000 cubic metres per second in peak periods to as low as 300 during dry spells. During the 2019 drought, water levels dropped dramatically, exposing rock faces and reducing sections of the falls to a trickle, a stark warning of what prolonged climate stress could bring. Reduced water flow directly affects the rainforest ecosystem, which depends on the spray from the falls. As moisture declines, vegetation dries out, placing plant and animal species at risk. Concerns are also mounting over urban expansion. The Victoria Falls Council Master Plan 2024 proposes increasing the town’s footprint from 22 square kilometres to 244, potentially encroaching on protected areas such as Victoria Falls National Park and Zambezi National Park. KVFW warns that such expansion could undermine the tourism industry itself if it compromises the natural environment that draws visitors. In August 2025, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee expressed “serious concerns” over delayed reporting and inadequate disclosure of developments within sensitive zones by both Zimbabwe and Zambia. Further scrutiny surrounds the proposed Batoka Gorge Hydroelectric Scheme, which could significantly alter the gorge’s natural structure by raising water levels. UNESCO has called for an updated management plan with clear safeguards to protect the site’s “outstanding universal value.” Conservationists are urging authorities to enforce stricter protections, remove illegal structures, and prioritise environmental preservation over short-term economic gains. “Victoria Falls is not just a national asset, it is a global heritage site,” said a conservation expert. “Its protection requires urgent, coordinated action.” As pressure mounts, the future of one of Africa’s most iconic landmarks hangs in the balance with growing fears that the “smoke that thunders” could one day fall silent. Victoria Falls environmental threat

Residents in Chinhoyi are raising concerns over alleged political interference in the recruitment of casual labour, amid claims that councillors are sidelining qualified candidates in favour of politically connected individuals. The dispute has escalated after a group of recently dismissed workers petitioned Marian Chombo, seeking government intervention into what they describe as an unfair hiring process within the local authority. At the centre of the controversy is a reported council resolution allowing each councillor to nominate two individuals for employment a move critics say undermines established recruitment procedures and opens the door to patronage. Affected workers argue that the system bypasses formal hiring channels and disadvantages those who had previously secured employment through recognised labour offices. “We have effectively been left out in the cold,” said one former worker, speaking on condition of anonymity. “Now it’s about political connections rather than qualifications.” Another dismissed employee, identified as Clayton, claimed the recruitment process has shifted from a structured system to one influenced by ward-level political dynamics. “Councillors are favouring their own people instead of experienced workers,” he said. Minister Chombo confirmed receiving the petition and said her office is currently assessing the matter, although she indicated caution in intervening directly in the affairs of the local authority. The situation has placed pressure on the Chinhoyi Municipality to clarify its recruitment procedures amid growing public scrutiny. Chinhoyi mayor Owen Charuza dismissed the allegations, insisting the council is following proper procedures in recruiting 51 casual workers. He said the hiring process is being conducted through official labour structures and suggested that complaints may be driven by individuals dissatisfied with recent changes. An anonymous councillor from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) echoed this view, alleging that some of the disgruntled workers are aligned with rival political interests and are resisting reforms aimed at improving transparency. Council spokesperson Tichaona Mlauzi said recruitment is being handled through the Department of Employment Service Promotion, with applicants undergoing vetting processes, including police clearance. “The 51 positions are short-term contracts of up to three months, aimed at addressing staffing gaps in key service delivery areas,” Mlauzi said. Despite these assurances, tensions remain high among residents and affected workers, who argue that perceived politicisation of employment risks undermining trust in local governance. Governance experts say transparent recruitment processes are essential to maintaining accountability in public institutions. “When hiring is seen to favour political loyalty over merit, it erodes confidence in local authorities and can impact service delivery,” said a Harare-based governance analyst. The unfolding dispute highlights broader concerns about fairness, accountability, and adherence to labour regulations within Zimbabwe’s public sector. As the matter is reviewed, stakeholders say clear communication and independent oversight will be key to restoring confidence in the recruitment process. Chinhoyi recruitment controversy

Zimbabwe’s men’s 4x400m relay team has delivered a historic performance at the World Relays Gaborone 2026, smashing the national record and securing both a place in the final and automatic qualification for the World Athletics Championships. Competing in Heat 2 from Lane 8, the quartet of Dennis Hove, Leeford Zuze, Gerren Muwishi, and Thandazani Ndlovu clocked an outstanding 2:59.01, the first time a Zimbabwean team has broken the three-minute barrier in the event. The time saw Zimbabwe finish third in their heat and sixth fastest overall, outperforming established relay nations such as Qatar and Belgium. Only Australia, Botswana, South Africa, the Netherlands, and Portugal recorded faster times, placing Zimbabwe firmly among the top contenders heading into the final. The sub-three-minute mark is widely regarded as a benchmark for elite global performance in the 4x400m relay, making Zimbabwe’s achievement both a psychological and competitive milestone. The team improved significantly from previous national times above 3:03, signalling rapid progress in the country’s sprint programme. Tendayi Tagara, president of the National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe (NAAZ), hailed the performance as a turning point. “This is a defining moment for Zimbabwean athletics,” Tagara said. “To break the national record, qualify for the final, and secure a place at the World Championships is an extraordinary achievement.” Zimbabwe’s success was built on disciplined baton exchanges and consistent pacing across all four legs, with each athlete maintaining competitive splits against world-class opposition. A powerful anchor leg ensured the team held position and surged to a record-breaking finish, underlining their growing confidence on the international stage. Analysts say the result reflects improved training systems and increased exposure to high-level competition. “This kind of performance doesn’t happen by chance,” said a track and field analyst. “It shows structured preparation, teamwork and belief.” With qualification for the World Athletics Championships already secured, attention now turns to the final, where Zimbabwe will aim to lower its time further and challenge for a podium finish. The team is guaranteed at least US$2,000 in prize money, with the potential to earn up to US$40,000 if they win the competition. The result has also raised expectations for Zimbabwe’s prospects at future global events, with the relay team now seen as a serious contender on the world stage. As momentum builds, the performance in Gaborone signals a new era for Zimbabwean athletics, one defined by competitiveness, ambition, and belief at the highest level. Zimbabwe 4x400m relay

Zimbabwe has created nearly half a million jobs over the past two years, with new data from the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) showing strong growth in formal employment and business activity. According to the figures, 238,000 new jobs were registered in 2025, up from 226,000 in 2024, bringing the total number of new jobs created to 464,000 over the two-year period. The data also shows a rise in registered employers from 4,600 to 5,500, representing a 15% increase a signal of expanding business activity across multiple sectors of the economy. NSSA chief executive officer Charles Shava said the figures point to growing economic momentum and increased participation in the formal sector. “The increase in registered employers and new employments is a positive indicator for the economy,” Shava said, adding that the growth also strengthens social protection systems as more workers contribute to pension schemes. According to the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat), formal employment refers to individuals working more than 30 hours per week for registered employers in both public and private sectors. NSSA data shows active employees increased from 1.36 million in 2024 to 1.39 million in 2025, while total registered employees rose to 3.9 million. Economists say the expansion in formal jobs could have a ripple effect across the economy, boosting household incomes, consumer spending, and government tax revenues. “Growth in formal employment is critical because it improves income stability and widens the tax base,” said a Harare-based economist. “It also enhances access to social security benefits.” The job gains come amid broader economic reforms and investment-led expansion under the Second Republic, with the government prioritising industrialisation, infrastructure development, and investment promotion. Large-scale projects in mining, construction, transport, and energy have played a key role in employment creation, both directly and indirectly. Emmerson Mnangagwa has recently urged employers to avoid casualisation of labour, emphasising the need for secure and decent jobs in line with labour laws. Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected economic growth of around 6% for Zimbabwe, driven largely by mining, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors. Key industries such as gold, lithium, agriculture, and manufacturing continue to anchor job creation, with rising investment flows boosting production capacity. Government policy frameworks, including the Zimbabwe National Industrial Development Policy 2 (ZNIDP2) 2026–2030 and the National Formalisation Strategy, are aimed at integrating informal businesses into the formal economy and expanding employment coverage. Industry Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu said industrial recovery is already translating into jobs, citing companies such as Paramount Garments operating at high capacity and employing young workers. Analysts say that while the figures are encouraging, sustaining job growth will depend on continued investment, policy consistency, and broader economic stability. Efforts to formalise the informal sector, which employs a large share of Zimbabwe’s workforce, are expected to further boost employment numbers and improve working conditions. As capacity utilisation rises and more businesses enter the formal economy, the latest NSSA data is being viewed as a sign of gradual but steady economic recovery. Zimbabwe job creation NSSA

RUSAPE — Two women from Harare have been sentenced to community service following a brazen attempt to sell a residential stand in Rusape by impersonating a deceased property owner. Maria Munyonga (70) and Sekai Chirima (51), residents of Ushewekunze, pleaded guilty to fraud charges before Rusape provincial magistrate Tendai Mahwe after their "get-rich-quick" scheme unraveled. The court heard that the complainant, Modester Munganasa, discovered an advertisement for Stand Number 3240 in Magamba Extension on a WhatsApp group. When she visited the site, neighbors alerted her to a relative of the actual owner, who confirmed the property was not on the market. Undeterred, Munyonga contacted Munganasa, claiming she was the owner and offering the stand for US$13,500. To facilitate the deal, the duo utilized a sophisticated array of forged documents: A Forged ID: Munyonga presented a national identity card featuring her photograph but the personal details of Pheona Mukwene, the actual owner who died in 2012. Supporting Paperwork: The pair produced a fraudulent Rusape Town Council water bill and an approved building plan to gain the buyer's trust. Growing suspicious, Munganasa alerted the police, leading to a sting operation and the subsequent arrest of the two women. Magistrate Mahwe sentenced each woman to 10 months in prison. However, the court showed some leniency: Six months were suspended for five years on condition of good behavior. The remaining four months were commuted to 140 hours of community service at Southlea Park Police Station. This case underscores a growing trend of property-related fraud in Zimbabwe, where scammers target the estates of the deceased. Authorities have reiterated the need for prospective buyers to conduct thorough due diligence and verify ownership records directly with local councils and the Deeds Office before parting with their hard-earned foreign currency. Rusape property fraud conviction

One of Zimbabwe’s largest platinum producers, Unki Mine, has rejected allegations that mining firms operating in Shurugwi are bribing traditional leaders to gain access to communal land. The response follows a report by the Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG), which alleges a pattern of collusion between mining companies, local leaders, and officials in one of Zimbabwe’s richest mineral belts. CNRG claims some companies offer “token” incentives, including fuel coupons, to chiefs and councillors to secure cooperation as mining operations expand into rural communities. However, Unki Mine general manager Walter Nemasasi dismissed the allegations, insisting the company adheres to transparent engagement practices. “We engage with host communities openly and ethically, and we do not provide improper inducements or anything that could reasonably be perceived as such,” Nemasasi said. Nemasasi said the mine conducts consultations through structured community forums involving elected village representatives, youth groups, vulnerable populations, and government officials. “The three chiefs of Shurugwi participate in the community engagement forum as ex officio members. Participants are reimbursed only for reasonable transport costs. No other benefits are provided, including to chiefs,” he said. He added that the mine currently has no plans to relocate surrounding communities. Despite these assurances, the CNRG report paints a starkly different picture, alleging a “deeply entrenched system” of dispossession tied to expanding mining concessions. “The mine would selectively summon the councillor, chief and a few villagers sympathetic to its interests, ensuring predetermined outcomes,” the report said. Residents in areas such as Pasimupindu and communities surrounding Unki Mine say they are living under uncertainty as mining operations expand, with fears of displacement and disruption to livelihoods. Zimbabwe earns an estimated US$6 billion annually from mineral exports, yet watchdog groups argue that communities in resource-rich areas continue to face poverty, environmental degradation, and limited economic benefits. CNRG also alleges that some companies invoke links to state security structures to suppress resistance, with villagers reportedly told they have no legal claim to communal land claims previously dismissed by government officials. Nick Mangwana, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Information, has previously said any displacement linked to development projects must be handled “sensitively, fairly and with dignity,” in line with constitutional provisions. Analysts say the dispute highlights longstanding gaps in Zimbabwe’s communal land governance framework, where land is vested in the State, leaving rural communities vulnerable. “Without stronger legal protections and transparent consultation processes, tensions between mining companies and communities will persist,” said a Harare-based governance expert. The CNRG report highlights significant social impacts, particularly on women and youth. Women are said to make up as much as 70% of displaced populations, while youth unemployment in mining areas is estimated at around 60%. Environmental concerns have also been raised, with open-cast mining linked to land degradation and pollution of water sources such as the Mutevekwi River. Advocates say these issues underscore the need for stronger oversight and more equitable sharing of mining benefits. As debate intensifies, the case of Shurugwi reflects a broader national challenge: balancing mineral-driven economic growth with the rights and welfare of local communities. Unki Mine Shurugwi