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By Southerton Business Times | Harare Chimurenga music icon Thomas "Mukanya" Mapfumo has defended his decision to accept US$1 million to perform at Jah Prayzah's upcoming wedding and a separate private event hosted by businessman Wicknell Chivayo, saying the payment is for professional services and not a personal gift. Mapfumo also dismissed suggestions that he harbours ill feelings towards Chivayo, describing the businessman as one of his biggest admirers. The veteran musician made the remarks during an interview with Nehanda Radio, where he responded to criticism from some opposition activists and social media users who argued that he should have rejected the arrangement. The controversy stems from Mapfumo's decision in 2024 to reject a US$500,000 package reportedly offered by Chivayo, which included a house, a vehicle and cash. At the time, the music legend said his conscience would not allow him to accept what he described as "dirty money." However, last month, Mapfumo clarified that the US$1 million he recently accepted was payment for performances, not a donation or gift. Asked why he had changed his position, Mapfumo said there was nothing inconsistent about accepting payment for his work. "There's nothing unusual about it. Didn't you hear Chikomo saying Wicknell is a big fan of Mukanya? If he can buy my CDs and play them in his car, why should I ignore what he wants to do for me?" Mapfumo said. Mapfumo said he has no personal dispute with Chivayo and questioned why he should reject work from someone who appreciates his music. He also addressed public allegations often made against the businessman, saying it is the responsibility of law enforcement authorities, not him, to determine whether any wrongdoing has occurred. "I don't know where he gets his money. If he is a thief, why hasn't he been arrested? If he is indeed a thief, arrest him and show the evidence that he is indeed a thief... why is he free if he is a thief?" he said. The musician added that Chivayo has financially supported several Zimbabwean artists over the years. "In fact, he has assisted several artists. Those musicians are struggling." Mapfumo's remarks have reignited debate on social media over artists accepting payments from politically connected business figures. Supporters argue that musicians should be free to earn a living through legitimate performance contracts, regardless of who hires them, while critics contend that public figures should consider the broader public perception of such engagements. Neither Mapfumo nor Chivayo has indicated that the performances have been cancelled, and the veteran musician maintains that the arrangement is a commercial agreement for entertainment services. Thomas Mapfumo Wicknell Chivayo

By Southerton Business Times | Chimanimani Police in Manicaland Province are appealing for information that could help identify the mother of a newborn baby girl who was found abandoned outside Hot Springs Clinic in Chimanimani. The infant was rescued on 1 August 2026 after a group of artisanal miners discovered her near the clinic and alerted police. Acting Manicaland police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka said officers from ZRP Nyanyadzi responded to the report and found the baby alive. "The informant in the matter is Masodzi Chibuwe (48), of Chibuwe Village under Chief Mutambara. Upon receiving the report, police attended the scene and found the baby alive," said Assistant Inspector Chinyoka. He said the newborn appeared to be in stable condition. "The infant appeared physically fit and had no visible signs of physical harm. She was immediately taken into police care before being referred to Mutambara Mission Hospital for further medical attention." Police have opened investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the baby's abandonment and to locate her mother or other relatives. Assistant Inspector Chinyoka appealed to members of the public who may have information to come forward. "We are appealing to anyone with information regarding the identity of the child's mother or any circumstances surrounding the abandonment to report to the nearest police station," he said. "Any information received will be treated with the confidentiality it deserves." Authorities have not released further details about the infant while investigations continue. Cases involving abandoned newborns are treated as child protection matters, with authorities seeking to establish the circumstances that led to the incident while ensuring the child's safety and welfare. Police and child welfare agencies encourage parents and guardians experiencing crises to seek assistance from family members, healthcare workers, social welfare offices, or other support services rather than abandoning children. Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact the nearest police station. Newborn baby abandoned Chimanimani

By Southerton Business Times | Harare The Government has introduced sweeping new regulations requiring property developers to finance and construct electricity infrastructure for new residential, commercial and industrial developments before selling or leasing serviced stands. The measures, contained in Statutory Instrument 128 of 2026, are aimed at ensuring new developments are fully serviced with reliable electricity while reducing the burden on the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) to retrofit power infrastructure after settlements have already been established. The regulations also introduce stiff penalties for non-compliance, including criminal prosecution, fines and imprisonment. Under the new regulations, developers must design, fund and install all electricity backbone infrastructure required to supply their developments. Crucially, no developer will be permitted to sell, lease or otherwise dispose of any stand until the electrical infrastructure has been completed, inspected and certified by the relevant authorities. The move is expected to address long-standing concerns over housing developments being marketed without essential services, leaving homeowners waiting years for electricity connections. Once completed, the electricity distribution network must be transferred to ZETDC free of charge. Developers will also be required to provide a five-year warranty covering all electrical infrastructure and equipment installed within the development. The warranty is intended to ensure defects identified after commissioning are rectified at the developer's expense rather than by taxpayers or electricity consumers. The regulations grant local authorities wider powers to enforce compliance. Councils will be able to: Suspend development permits for non-compliant projects. Block approval of land subdivisions. Refuse to issue rates clearance certificates until developers comply with the regulations. The measures are expected to strengthen oversight of land development and improve coordination between councils and utility providers. Developers or companies that fail to comply with the regulations may face criminal prosecution. Convicted offenders could be fined up to Level 5 or sentenced to up to six months' imprisonment, or both, depending on the offence. The Government says the penalties are intended to discourage the sale of unserviced land and improve standards across Zimbabwe's property development sector. The regulations also introduce a framework allowing independent electricity distribution operators to participate in Zimbabwe's power sector. Private companies will be eligible to operate electricity distribution networks under 25-year renewable licences, which will be awarded through a competitive bidding process. However, the regulations protect consumers by requiring that tariffs charged by licensed private distributors must not exceed ZETDC tariffs approved by the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA). The reforms form part of wider Government efforts to modernise Zimbabwe's electricity sector, improve infrastructure delivery and ensure new housing developments are fully serviced before occupation. Zimbabwe property developers electricity regulations

By Southerton Business Times | Bulawayo Bulawayo police have arrested two suspects and recovered 31.8 kilogrammes of cannabis and hundreds of bottles of BronCleer cough syrup in separate anti-drug operations as authorities intensify the crackdown on drug trafficking in Zimbabwe. The suspects, Annet Sebele (38) and Fortune Tshabalala (42), both from Tshabalala suburb, were arrested during operations conducted by detectives from the CID Drugs and Narcotics Unit. Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele said the arrests followed intelligence received from members of the public. Inspector Msebele said detectives arrested Sebele on 1 August after receiving information that she was allegedly operating a drug distribution business from her home. Police recovered four cobs of cannabis weighing 1.8 kilogrammes, with an estimated street value of more than ZiG280,000. Detectives also seized empty sachets believed to have been used to package the drug for sale. According to police, Sebele later directed investigators to another residence where Tshabalala was arrested in connection with the investigation. In a separate operation conducted at around 4 am on 2 August in Newtown West, detectives acted on reports of suspected drug dealing at a house in the suburb. Police said officers observed several suspects loading unidentified items into a white Honda Vezel before identifying themselves. The suspects allegedly drove into the property, locked the gate and escaped by jumping over the perimeter wall into nearby bushes. A subsequent search of the premises resulted in the recovery of: 36 cobs of cannabis weighing approximately 30 kilogrammes 58 boxes of BronCleer cough syrup, each containing 50 bottles 447 loose 100ml bottles of BronCleer Police estimated the street value of the recovered BronCleer cough syrup at approximately US$26,429. Investigations are continuing to identify and arrest the suspects who fled the scene. The seizures come as Zimbabwe continues to battle rising cases of drug and substance abuse, particularly among young people. BronCleer, a codeine-containing cough syrup, has increasingly featured in police operations targeting the illegal distribution of prescription medicines, while cannabis remains one of the country's most commonly trafficked illicit drugs. The Government has identified drug and substance abuse as a major public health and security challenge, linking it to mental health problems, crime, school dropouts and road traffic accidents. Police have intensified intelligence-led operations against suspected drug suppliers and trafficking networks across the country. Inspector Msebele commended members of the public for assisting police investigations. "We appreciate members of the public for supplying information which led to the arrest of the accused persons. We also warn those unlawfully dealing in dangerous drugs that the law will take its course without fear or favour," she said. Bulawayo drug bust

By Southerton Business Times | Rusape Police in Manicaland are investigating the death of a 69-year-old village head from Rusape whose body was discovered at his home on Tuesday. The deceased, Lukas Mudewaire, of Mudewaire Village, was found by his 76-year-old brother, who had gone to check on his welfare after he had been living alone. Acting Manicaland police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka confirmed the incident, saying police attended the scene after receiving a report from the deceased's brother. "On August 4, he visited his brother and discovered that the bedroom door was open. He knocked on the door, and no one answered," said Assistant Inspector Chinyoka. "Concerned, the brother entered the house and found Mudewaire lying on the floor with no signs of life." Police said officers who attended the scene found no visible injuries on the body. An empty 500ml container was recovered from inside the house as part of the investigation. The body was taken to Rusape General Hospital for a post-mortem examination to establish the cause of death. Assistant Inspector Chinyoka said investigations are continuing and police are awaiting the post-mortem results before drawing conclusions about the circumstances surrounding the death. The incident has renewed attention on the importance of regular welfare checks for elderly people and others who live alone, particularly in rural communities where social isolation can go unnoticed. Community leaders and social welfare advocates encourage families, neighbours and local leadership structures to maintain regular contact with older residents and to look out for signs that someone may need practical or emotional support. Authorities have urged members of the public to avoid speculation while investigations are ongoing. Rusape village head found dead

By Southerton Business Times | Harare The Government has approved a second phase of cost-of-doing-business reforms, introducing fresh cuts to licence fees, levies and regulatory charges across key sectors including agriculture, transport, sport, education and the natural stone export industry. The latest measures, approved by Cabinet, are intended to simplify regulation, eliminate duplicated licences and reduce the financial burden on businesses as Zimbabwe seeks to improve the ease of doing business and stimulate economic growth. Speaking during Tuesday's post-Cabinet media briefing, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda said the reforms build on the first phase of the programme, which reduced several transport-related fees and vehicle registration costs. "Cabinet approved the streamlining of overlapping licences and permits while removing unnecessary fees across the remaining sectors," Dr Soda said. The latest reforms are designed to reduce compliance costs for businesses by removing duplicated regulatory requirements and lowering charges considered unnecessarily high. The measures affect operators in agriculture, transport, sport, education and the natural stone export sector. The Government says reducing the cost of regulatory compliance will improve Zimbabwe's business environment, encourage investment and support economic expansion. Industrial hemp producers are among the biggest beneficiaries of the latest reforms. Cabinet approved reductions in Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA) registration fees for industrial hemp operators, while application processing fees charged by the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) will also be lowered. The changes are expected to reduce barriers to entry for investors in Zimbabwe's emerging industrial hemp industry. Zimbabwe's sports industry will also benefit from significant reductions in statutory levies. Under the new measures: The Sport and Recreation Commission (SRC) levy on gate takings has been reduced from 6% to 3%. The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) levy on gross match-day revenue has also been cut from 6% to 3%. The Premier Soccer League (PSL) levy has been reduced from 10% of net match-day income to 4%. Local authority venue hire levies have been lowered from 15% to 10% of total gross attendance revenue. The Government said the reductions are intended to ease financial pressure on sporting organisations and encourage greater investment in sport. Cabinet also approved additional transport sector reforms aimed at improving service delivery. Government plans to establish a one-stop shop for vehicle ownership transfers to simplify administrative procedures and reduce processing times. Authorities will also formalise the registration of tricycles and introduce a licensing framework for riders. Vehicle change-of-ownership fees will remain unchanged. Local authorities will now be required to cap outdoor advertising charges at US$2.50 per square metre, reducing costs for businesses that rely on billboards and outdoor marketing. Cabinet also approved the abolition of cemetery entry fees, removing a charge that had been levied by some local authorities. Unlike other sectors, education-related statutory charges will remain unchanged. Annual school affiliation fees, Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) affiliation charges and examination fees will continue at current levels. Dr Soda said the latest reforms will come into effect once the required Statutory Instruments have been gazetted. The latest package forms part of the Government's broader programme to improve Zimbabwe's investment climate by reducing regulatory costs, simplifying licensing requirements and making it easier for businesses to operate. Zimbabwe cost of doing business reforms

By Southerton Business Times | Harare Zimbabwe is preparing to introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI), coding and robotics as compulsory learning areas from primary school as the Government moves to equip learners with skills needed for an increasingly technology-driven economy. The proposed reforms were announced by Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera during the Abedai National Robotics, Artificial Intelligence and Internet of Things Challenge (ANRAIC) 2026 held at Tynwald Primary School in Harare. Mavetera said digital skills must become a fundamental part of education if Zimbabwe is to produce innovators capable of developing home-grown technologies and competing in the global digital economy. "Zimbabwe’s ambition is to produce innovators who can create home-grown technologies rather than rely on imported digital solutions," she said. The Minister said Government was working with relevant stakeholders to introduce curriculum reforms that will integrate artificial intelligence, coding and robotics across all levels of education. She said exposing learners to emerging technologies from an early age would strengthen skills such as critical thinking, creativity, innovation and problem-solving. According to Mavetera, the reforms are expected to prepare young Zimbabweans for future careers in fields including software development, automation, data science, engineering and digital entrepreneurship. The Government also plans to expand school robotics and coding clubs, establish additional innovation laboratories and increase teacher training programmes to support the implementation of the new learning areas. The proposed education changes are aligned with Zimbabwe’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2026-2030, which seeks to accelerate AI adoption, promote local research and encourage responsible use of emerging technologies. Mavetera said Zimbabwe must move beyond being a consumer of technology and become a producer of digital solutions that address local challenges. She said artificial intelligence could support innovation in key sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, mining and environmental management. The Minister added that Government initiatives such as the One Learner, One Device Initiative and the Presidential Internet Scheme would continue expanding access to digital tools and connectivity, especially in rural communities. As more learners gain access to digital platforms, Mavetera said online safety must remain a priority. She said Government would strengthen implementation of the National Child Online Protection Policy through digital citizenship education, awareness campaigns and partnerships involving parents, schools and technology companies. The measures are aimed at protecting children from online risks including cyberbullying, exploitation, harmful content and other forms of digital abuse. Mavetera encouraged young people to use technology to develop solutions for Zimbabwe’s social and economic challenges. She said innovation should not be limited to major cities, adding that creative ideas can emerge from communities across the country if learners are given the right skills and opportunities. The Minister said developing a technology-focused education system would support the country’s Vision 2030 goal of building an upper-middle-income economy and positioning Zimbabwe as a competitive player in Africa’s digital transformation. She urged learners to embrace science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education, saying creativity and persistence would be central to shaping Zimbabwe’s technological future. AI coding and robotics in Zimbabwe schools

By Arts Correspondent Wednesday, August 5, 2026 The celebrated musician, producer and multi-instrumentalist is expanding his influence through music, technology and radio broadcasting in the United Kingdom. While many musicians struggle to maintain their careers after relocating abroad, Zimbabwean artiste Que Montana continues to make significant strides in the international entertainment industry. The demands of diaspora life have forced many talented musicians to put their creative careers on hold. However, Quinton has managed to keep his head above water by continuing to release new music, create innovative visual content and explore fresh opportunities in broadcasting. His latest achievement is joining Leek Radio in Staffordshire, United Kingdom, where he presents a vibrant African music programme titled Afro Connection. The appointment has added another exciting chapter to the career of one of Zimbabwe’s most versatile entertainment personalities. A New Voice on UK Radio: Afro Connection on Leek Radio Through Afro Connection, Que Montana introduces listeners to African music, culture, inspirational stories and conversations from across the continent. The programme carries the memorable tagline “Music from Cape to Cairo”, reflecting its mission to celebrate the diversity of African music while bringing people from different cultures together. Afro Connection features Afrobeats, Afro-pop, traditional sounds, gospel, urban music and emerging talent from different parts of Africa. Although the programme is broadcast from Leek in Staffordshire, its online audience extends far beyond the local community. Listeners have sent messages from different parts of the United Kingdom, Ireland, Denmark and other European countries. The show has also attracted listeners in the United States, South Africa, Nigeria, Zimbabwe and several other parts of the world. The growing international audience demonstrates Quinton’s ability to connect Africans on the continent with those living in the diaspora. For Que Montana, Afro Connection is more than a radio programme. It is a platform for promoting African music, introducing new artistes and presenting the continent’s rich cultural identity to international audiences. A Career Built on Versatility: Music Production and Collaborative Success Que Montana’s move into broadcasting is the latest development in a career that has constantly evolved. He began his musical journey as a multi-instrumentalist, becoming proficient in several instruments and performing with some of Zimbabwe’s most respected musicians and bands. During the early years of his career, Quinton performed or worked alongside notable names such as Tanga WekwaSando, Sandra Ndebele, Afrika Revenge, Alexio Kawara and Rozalla Miller, among many others. These experiences established him as a dependable musician capable of performing across different genres and working with some of the country’s leading entertainers. Que Montana later expanded his career into music production. During the popular Country Boy era, he contributed to projects involving artistes such as Major E, Decibel, Kulgan and Calabash. His production work demonstrated that his talents extended beyond singing and playing instruments. Quinton could also arrange, develop and shape complete musical projects from behind the scenes. He was also associated with the award-winning group Afrika Revenge during the period surrounding the release of the celebrated song and album Wanga. The project became one of the most successful urban music releases of its time and received several music awards. Working within such a successful musical environment gave Que Montana valuable experience and prepared him for the next stage of his career as a solo artiste. Six Albums and a Lasting Musical Journey: Afrivo Rhythms After years of performing, producing and working with other artistes, Quinton launched his solo music career. His first album performed strongly on Zimbabwean radio, with songs from the project reaching the top of local charts. Que Montana has since released six albums, establishing himself as a consistent recording artiste with a catalogue spanning different musical styles and generations. His sixth album, Afrivo Rhythms, was launched live on Classic 263 and marked another important milestone in his musical journey. The album demonstrated Quinton’s ability to combine African musical influences with modern production styles. Rather than remaining trapped in the sound that initially made him popular, Que Montana has continued experimenting and adjusting his music to connect with changing audiences. His career has been defined by reinvention. He has moved from multi-instrumentalist to producer, from band member to solo artiste, and now from musician to radio presenter. Embracing Artificial Intelligence in Music Video Production Que Montana has also become one of the Zimbabwean musicians experimenting with high-quality, artificial intelligence-assisted music videos. The cost of producing professional music videos can be a major challenge for independent African artistes, particularly those working in the diaspora without the financial backing of large record labels. Quinton has embraced emerging technology as a way of producing more ambitious visual stories while maintaining control over his creative direction. His use of artificial intelligence does not replace the human element behind the music. Instead, it enables him to present African stories through cinematic visuals that might otherwise require significantly larger production budgets. This development places Que Montana among a growing group of African creatives using technology to compete within the global digital entertainment industry. Defying the Pressures of Diaspora Life and Commercial Opportunities Relocating to another country often forces musicians to choose between survival and creativity. Many established artistes find themselves overwhelmed by demanding work schedules, family responsibilities and the financial pressures of rebuilding their lives. For Quinton, the United Kingdom has presented similar challenges, but it has also opened new doors. Instead of allowing diaspora life to silence his creativity, he has continued recording music, developing visual productions and building a new audience through broadcasting. His journey demonstrates that relocation does not have to mark the end of an artiste’s career. With persistence, innovation and discipline, it can become the beginning of a wider international chapter. Que Montana is now using his position to promote not only his own music but African music as a whole. Through Afro Connection, Quinton is creating opportunities for established and emerging African artistes to reach listeners who might never have discovered their work through traditional platforms. An Opportunity for Corporate Partnerships The growth of Afro Connection also presents an important opportunity for corporate organisations seeking to connect with African and diaspora communities. Companies involved in remittances, travel, telecommunications, entertainment, fashion, food, financial services and community development could benefit from partnering with a programme that speaks directly to a growing international African audience. Supporting Que Montana would not simply mean supporting an individual artiste. It would represent an investment in African music, culture and positive representation within international media. Quinton’s experience as a musician, producer, presenter and creative entrepreneur gives him the potential to develop Afro Connection into a much larger platform. The programme could grow to include high-profile interviews, live performances, cultural discussions, community events, talent-discovery initiatives and partnerships with organisations operating in Africa and the diaspora. With many achievements already under his belt, it is difficult to ignore Que Montana’s versatility and determination. From playing several instruments and producing award-winning musicians to releasing six solo albums and presenting an African radio programme in Britain, his journey reflects remarkable creative endurance. Que Montana continues to prove that talent can evolve, cross borders and find new audiences. From Zimbabwean stages to British airwaves, Quinton is not merely preserving his career in the diaspora—he is building an even bigger one. Que Montana Afro Connection Leek Radio

By Southerton Business Times | Katowice, Poland Legendary football coach Wiesław Grabowski, whose influence helped shape a generation of Zimbabwean footballers, has been laid to rest in Katowice, Poland, with representatives of Zimbabwe's football fraternity attending the funeral to honour his enduring legacy. The burial took place on Tuesday, 4 August 2026, with Marshall Gore, a United Kingdom-based football administrator, travelling to Poland to represent Zimbabwe's football community. Gore, who contested the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) presidential election following the end of the Normalisation Committee's tenure, conveyed condolences on behalf of Zimbabwean football during the funeral service. Former Darryn T player Kudakwashe Kanhutu, who was coached by Grabowski, also attended the ceremony. Grabowski is widely credited with introducing a youth-focused development model that transformed Zimbabwean football during the early 1990s. As coach of Darryn T, he built a team around young players at a time when most clubs relied heavily on experienced professionals. His faith in youth paid off spectacularly in 1992, when Darryn T stunned favourites CAPS United with a 4-0 victory in the Zimbabwe Cup final, one of the most memorable upsets in the competition's history. He was also recognised for pioneering the recruitment of foreign players into the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League, helping broaden the league's competitiveness and international outlook. Grabowski also enjoyed success on the international stage, guiding the Zimbabwe Under-23 national team to a silver medal at the 1995 All-Africa Games, hosted in Harare. Throughout his coaching career in Zimbabwe, he played a pivotal role in the development of several players who went on to become household names, including Norman Mapeza, Lloyd Chitembwe, Edelbert Dinha, Gift Muzadzi, Alois Bunjira and Stewart Murisa. Many of his former players have credited him with instilling discipline, professionalism and belief in young talent. Football manager and coach Paweł Juchniewicz, who worked closely with Grabowski, described him as a mentor whose influence extended far beyond the football pitch. "How do you sum up a life like this? A life that connected Zabrze with Harare, Polish football grounds with African stadiums, young dreams with professional football," Juchniewicz said. "Wiesław Grabowski was a coach, a national team manager, a teacher, a talent scout and a mentor. Above all, he was an extraordinary human being." He said Grabowski possessed a rare ability to connect with people from all walks of life. "Wherever he went, he had the remarkable ability to make people feel at ease. He knew presidents, FIFA and UEFA officials, leading coaches and journalists, yet he always found time for the young player whom everyone else overlooked." Reflecting on Grabowski's remarkable career, Juchniewicz added: "He never waited for opportunities he created them through hard work, knowledge and determination." Grabowski's contribution to Zimbabwean football extended beyond trophies and medals. His commitment to youth development helped lay the foundation for the careers of numerous players who later starred for club and country. His passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the history of Zimbabwean football, but his legacy continues to live on through the generations of players, coaches and administrators whose lives he influenced. Wiesław Grabowski

By Southerton Business Times | Hwange A 46-year-old man from Binga District has been sentenced to an effective 10 years in prison after he was convicted of attempting to kill six family members by setting a house on fire and of unlawfully dealing in dangerous drugs. The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) said Nguquko Moyo, of Lusulu, Binga, was sentenced by the Hwange Regional Court following the attack, which occurred in Kayongolo Village under Chief Pashu on the night of 12 June 2026. According to the prosecution, Moyo went to his mother's homestead shortly before midnight and confronted relatives over allegations of an extramarital affair. The NPA said he then set fire to a bedroom hut where six relatives, including his 66-year-old mother, another adult and three children aged three, 10 and 12, were asleep. The court heard that when another relative attempted to rescue those trapped inside, Moyo allegedly locked the door from the outside. The occupants managed to escape after breaking through a rear mud wall before the fire engulfed the structure. Police were alerted and attended the scene during the early hours of the following morning. During the investigation, officers recovered 12.5 kilograms of cannabis concealed in nearby bushes. According to the NPA, the discovery was made after police observed suspicious activity while conducting inquiries at the homestead. The recovered cannabis was stored in four buckets, leading to an additional charge of unlawful dealing in dangerous drugs. Moyo was convicted on six counts of attempted murder and one count of unlawful dealing in dangerous drugs. The court sentenced him to seven years' imprisonment for the attempted murder convictions, with one year suspended on condition of good behaviour. He received a further five-year sentence for the drug offence, with one year suspended. The sentences were structured to leave Moyo serving an effective 10-year prison term. The case underscores the serious penalties Zimbabwean courts continue to impose for violent offences that endanger lives, particularly where children and vulnerable family members are involved. Binga attempted murder case

By Southerton Business Times | Harare The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has dismissed as false social media claims that holders of Class 2 driver's licences can no longer legally drive light motor vehicles in Zimbabwe. In a statement issued on Tuesday, 4 August 2026, the Ministry said the Government has not introduced any changes to the country's driver's licence classifications and urged motorists to disregard misinformation circulating online. "The Government has not announced any changes to the current driver's licence classes," the Ministry said. "Don't let unverified claims cause panic. The Government has NOT announced any changes to the current driver's licence classes a Class 2 licence holder can still legally drive Class 4 vehicles." The clarification follows widespread reports on social media from motorists who alleged that some traffic police officers were stopping drivers with Class 2 licences, insisting they should also possess Class 4 licences to drive light motor vehicles. The claims prompted confusion among motorists, with many seeking clarification on whether Zimbabwe's licensing regulations had been amended. The Ministry said no such policy change has been made. Under Zimbabwe's current driver's licence classification system, vehicle categories are structured according to the type and weight of vehicles that a licence holder is authorised to operate. A Class 4 licence authorises a driver to operate light motor vehicles, while a Class 2 licence covers heavy vehicles, including trucks and lorries. Importantly, Zimbabwe's licensing framework allows holders of higher licence classes to drive vehicles covered by lower licence classes. This means that motorists with a valid Class 2 licence are legally permitted to drive vehicles falling under Class 4. The Ministry said these regulations remain unchanged. Authorities urged Zimbabweans to rely on official Government communication rather than unverified social media posts when seeking information on public policies and regulations. The Ministry said false information shared online can create unnecessary panic and confusion among motorists. Motorists who require clarification on licensing requirements have been encouraged to consult official Government channels before acting on information circulating on social media. The clarification comes as authorities continue efforts to combat misinformation relating to transport regulations and other Government policies. Class 2 driver's licence Zimbabwe

By Southerton Business Times | Harare The United Kingdom has appointed Gill Lever OBE as His Majesty's Ambassador to Zimbabwe, succeeding Peter Vowles, who is being transferred to another diplomatic posting. In a statement issued on Tuesday, 4 August 2026, the UK Government confirmed that Lever will take up her new role in September 2026, following the completion of the diplomatic appointment process. "Mrs Gill Lever OBE has been appointed His Majesty's Ambassador to the Republic of Zimbabwe in succession to Mr Peter Vowles, who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment. Mrs Lever will take up her appointment during September 2026," the statement said. The announcement indicates that the Government of Zimbabwe has already granted agrément the formal approval required under diplomatic protocol before a foreign government can appoint an ambassador. Gill Lever is a senior British diplomat with extensive experience in international relations and public diplomacy. Her appointment comes as the UK and Zimbabwe continue efforts to strengthen bilateral engagement in areas including trade, investment, climate action, education and development cooperation. She succeeds Peter Vowles, who has served as the UK's Ambassador to Zimbabwe since 2023 and will assume another diplomatic assignment. Although the appointment has been announced, Lever will only formally assume the role after completing the required diplomatic accreditation procedures in Zimbabwe. Upon arriving in Harare, she is expected to present copies of her credentials to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade before attending a formal accreditation ceremony at State House. During that ceremony, Lever will present her Letters of Credence to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, while Peter Vowles' Letters of Recall will also be submitted, officially marking the transfer of diplomatic responsibilities. Only after presenting her credentials to the Head of State can Lever formally exercise the full powers of ambassador, including representing the British Government in official engagements at the highest diplomatic level. The United Kingdom is represented in Zimbabwe by an Ambassador, rather than a High Commissioner, because Zimbabwe is currently outside the Commonwealth. Within the Commonwealth, member states exchange High Commissioners instead of ambassadors. Since Zimbabwe withdrew from the Commonwealth in 2003, the UK has accredited ambassadors to represent His Majesty's Government in Harare. The interval between announcing a diplomatic appointment and assuming office is standard practice, allowing the incoming ambassador to conclude previous assignments, receive country-specific briefings and complete relocation arrangements before taking up the new posting. Lever is expected to assume her duties in Harare during September 2026, becoming the United Kingdom's senior diplomatic representative in Zimbabwe. Gill Lever Ambassador to Zimbabwe