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Energy Minister July Moyo Parliament has called on Energy and Power Development Minister July Moyo to deliver an urgent ministerial statement after the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority raised fuel prices this month. The request comes after two successive fuel price increases in Zimbabwe i n March 2026. On March 4, diesel rose from US$1.52 to US$1.77 per litre, while petrol increased from US$1.56 to US$1.71. A second adjustment on March 18 pushed diesel to US$2.05 and petrol to US$2.17 per litre. Authorities have attributed the hikes to rising global oil prices, driven by escalating tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, with crude oil prices climbing above US$100 per barrel. Speaking in the Parliament of Zimbabwe on Thursday, Marondera Central MP Caston Matewu raised concern over the scale of the increases, noting that Zimbabwe fuel prices have risen far more sharply than in neighbouring countries. “We take note of the geopolitical crisis in the Middle East… which has caused the price of oil to increase in the past few weeks,” Matewu said. “However, the average increase between January and now in fuel in the SADC region is around 5%, but the increase in Zimbabwe between January and now is almost 40%. This is a massive discrepancy.” His remarks highlight growing concern about fuel costs in Zimbabwe, which are now significantly higher than regional averages. Matewu urged Minister Moyo to appear before Parliament to explain the drivers behind the sharp increases and the widening gap between Zimbabwe and other Southern African countries. “It is with that… that we ask that an urgent Ministerial Statement… be given… to address why our fuel is so expensive,” he said. The request reflects mounting pressure on the government to explain the fuel price crisis in Zimbabwe , as rising pump prices continue to drive up transport costs, inflation, and the overall cost of living. The latest increases are expected to have ripple effects across the economy, with higher fuel costs feeding directly into food prices, public transport fares, and business expenses. While global oil price movements remain a key factor, lawmakers are increasingly questioning whether domestic policies, taxes, and supply chain costs are amplifying the impact locally. With petrol now at US$2.17 per litre, attention is shifting to how authorities plan to manage the situation and whether policy adjustments could help cushion consumers. Zimbabwe fuel prices

Traditional Malagasy tatao dish served during the New Year ANTANANARIVO, MADAGASCAR  – Madagascar has revived its traditional New Year celebration, Alahamady Be , marking a significant cultural resurgence after decades of dormancy. The pre-colonial festival, rooted in Malagasy royal traditions, returned with ancestral rituals, sacred fire ceremonies, and purification rites, drawing large crowds across the capital, Antananarivo. Celebrations peaked at Mahamasina Stadium, where thousands gathered for music, dance, and traditional performances, signalling renewed public interest in indigenous identity and heritage. Organisers say the revival of Alahamady Be is part of a broader effort to restore Malagasy identity following years of cultural erosion. Mikolo Hasina Ankoay Andrianarisoa, chairperson of the organising committee, said the festival represents a symbolic awakening: “Much of what defines Malagasy identity has been lost, destroyed, or has crumbled away… Today, we must wake up, regain our senses, and realise that there is blood flowing through our veins — and that blood is Malagasy.” Cultural historians note that Alahamady Be was traditionally aligned with the Malagasy lunar calendar and closely linked to the Merina monarchy, before fading during colonial rule and modern state transitions. A central highlight of the celebrations took place on March 19, featuring ritual food offerings and blessings. Attendees were served tatao , a traditional dish of rice cooked in milk and topped with honey, symbolising abundance and prosperity. The ceremony was followed by tsodrano , a sacred blessing ritual led by custodians of tradition. Organisers also emphasised the spiritual importance of Manjakamiadana, a historic royal site within the former palace complex of the Kingdom of Madagascar. Davida Rakoto, one of the tradition’s guardians, said the ability to perform rituals freely at the site marked a historic moment: “After so long, we were finally able to perform the rituals freely and in full on the sacred stone… It had not happened since the time of the kings.” Events were held across major landmarks, including the University of Antananarivo and the historic Rova of Ambohidrabiby, reinforcing the link between heritage and national identity. At Ambohidrabiby, believed to be the birthplace of the Merina kingdom, the ceremonial fire was lit before being symbolically carried across the city and beyond. Violette Randrianjatovo, a local education official, underscored the site’s significance: “Celebrating the Malagasy New Year here is deeply sacred… the fire is lit here first, before being carried across the whole city – and even throughout Madagascar.” The festivities will conclude with hiragasy , a traditional form of Malagasy musical theatre combining song, dance, and storytelling. The performances are widely regarded by scholars as a cornerstone of Malagasy oral tradition and cultural expression. Experts say the return of Alahamady Be reflects a growing movement across Africa to reclaim indigenous traditions and strengthen cultural identity in the face of globalisation. Alahamady Be Madagascar

Road construction site handover — contractor and ministry officials at the site handover HARARE —   The government has moved to the next phase of rehabilitating and widening a 16 km stretch of Seke Road  after formally handing the project to a local contractor, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development said on Thursday, 19 March 2026. The section, which runs from Velvet to ZRP Dema , forms part of the broader 66.5 km Harare–Seke–Zvipadze Road upgrade. Authorities say the full corridor will eventually be expanded from the Harare Main Post Office  to the Ten Miles area in Marondera to improve connectivity and traffic flow. The ministry confirmed that site handover is underway and that work on the 16 km segment is expected to begin soon. The upgrade will include rehabilitation, widening, and resurfacing, with the aim of improving road capacity and safety for commuters and freight traffic. Ministry statement: “Site hand‑over is currently underway for the rehabilitation and widening of Seke Road, covering a 16km stretch running from Velvet to ZRP Dema. This key infrastructure upgrade underscores the Government’s continued efforts and firm commitment to modernising the country’s road network, improving traffic flow, and enhancing road safety.” Pothole patching was recently carried out along the nearby stretch from the Unit H turn‑off to Makoni Shopping Centre  in Chitungwiza, a short distance from Velvet, as part of interim maintenance measures. Residents and road users can expect more sustained construction activity once the contractor mobilises equipment and materials. Officials say the project will reduce travel times, lower vehicle operating costs, and support economic activity in Harare, Chitungwiza, and Marondera by improving a key commuter and commercial route. Timeline and what to watch Immediate next steps: Contractor mobilisation and site establishment. Short term: Commencement of earthworks, widening, and drainage improvements. Medium term: Resurfacing and installation of road safety features. Stakeholder updates: The ministry will publish progress reports and traffic management plans as work advances. Road users are advised to follow traffic advisories and temporary diversions once construction begins. Seke Road rehabilitation 2026

Grocery shopping in Zimbabwe amid rising costs The Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ) has called on the government to temporarily review fuel taxes, levies, and administrative charges to help ease pressure from rising Zimbabwe fuel prices. The appeal comes as the latest fuel price increase in Zimbabwe  pushes diesel to US$2.05 per litre, up from US$1.52, while petrol (E5) has climbed to US$2.17 from US$1.56 before March 4, 2026. CCZ chief executive Rosemary Mpofu said while rising global oil prices  linked to Middle East tensions are a key factor, domestic pricing structures are significantly shaping the cost of fuel in Zimbabwe. “However, the ZERA price build-up also shows that the final pump price is not determined by import cost alone,” Mpofu said. “It includes taxes and levies, administrative charges, blending costs, distribution costs and margins.” According to the fuel price build-up by Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA), taxes and levies alone account for US$0.422 per litre on diesel and US$0.857 per litre on petrol (Blend E5). “This means the government… could still cushion consumers by reviewing the domestic components of the fuel price,” she added. Mpofu urged authorities to act swiftly to mitigate the fuel price crisis in Zimbabwe, proposing targeted short-term interventions. “CCZ therefore urges Government to act in the short run by temporarily reviewing selected fuel taxes, levies and administrative charges; prioritising relief for public transport and essential food supply chains; and intensifying monitoring of fares and basic commodity prices to curb speculative markups,” she said. The consumer watchdog warned that rising petrol prices in Zimbabwe are already feeding into inflation and increasing the cost of basic goods. CCZ said the low-income urban family basket for a household of six stood at ZWG20,450.90 (about US$600.48) in February 2026, with key items such as margarine, tea leaves, fresh milk, and tomatoes already showing price increases. “These are among the products that tend to respond quickly to transport and distribution cost increases,” Mpofu noted. In practice, the first-round effects of the fuel price increase in Zimbabwe in 2026 have already been seen in commuter fares, milk and bread distribution, fresh produce, and frequently purchased grocery items. “For low-income households, every extra dollar spent on transport reduces what is available for food, rent, school needs, and health care,” she said. As fuel prices in Zimbabwe remain elevated, pressure is mounting on the government to balance external shocks from global oil markets with internal policy adjustments. Analysts say reviewing taxes and levies could provide short-term relief, even as longer-term structural challenges continue to drive the fuel price crisis in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe fuel prices

Walter Chahwanda's court appearance via video link LIVERPOOL, UK  – UK-based Zimbabwean gospel singer turned pastor Walter Chahwanda (33)  has been sentenced to nine years in prison after a jury found him guilty of 17 sexual offences involving minors and young women. The sentence, handed down at a Liverpool court, includes a five-year extended licence period, meaning Chahwanda must serve at least two-thirds of his sentence before being considered for release. He will also be subject to a lifetime Sexual Harm Prevention Order , indefinite inclusion on the sex offenders’ register, and permanent restraining orders barring contact with his victims. Chahwanda appeared via video link from HM Prison Liverpool , wearing a white jacket over a black T-shirt. According to the Crown Prosecution Service, Chahwanda used his position within the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) and later at his own Liverpool-based church, Sound of Dominion, to target victims. Prosecutors said that over four years, he groomed and exploited children and young women he met through church networks, sending explicit sexual images and videos. In sentencing remarks, Judge David Swinnerton described a pattern of calculated abuse: “You abused the trust and power that you had in your position in the church to violate eight different young girls… your behaviour was deliberate, predatory and sustained.” The court heard that all victims were under 18, with two aged just 14 at the time of the offences. Each received unsolicited explicit content from Chahwanda, leaving them “bewildered, confused, and scared.” Judge Swinnerton highlighted the profound psychological impact on the victims, noting that the offences occurred during formative years: “At a time when they were growing up… you stripped them of their dignity and privacy to satisfy your own desires.” Victim impact statements presented in court detailed long-term emotional trauma, with legal observers noting that such cases often involve lasting damage to trust, relationships, and mental health. Legal analysts in the UK say extended sentences are typically imposed in cases where offenders are deemed a continuing risk to the public, particularly minors. “The court clearly assessed him as posing an ongoing danger to young girls,” one UK-based criminal justice expert said, referencing the judge’s decision to impose extended supervision measures. Chahwanda, once a prominent figure in Zimbabwean gospel circles in the UK, had built a reputation as a youth leader and musician. The court heard that his visibility and influence within church communities enabled him to gain the trust of victims and their families. Judge Swinnerton noted that Chahwanda’s public image worked in his favour: “They saw this good figure in the church, and you abused all of that for your sexual urges to come to the fore.” The judge further criticised his lack of remorse, stating that he continued to deny responsibility and showed “no understanding” of the harm caused. The case has raised renewed concerns about safeguarding practices within faith-based organisations, particularly those working with youth. Child protection advocates stress the need for stronger oversight and reporting mechanisms in religious institutions to prevent abuse of authority. Walter Chahwanda sentencing

Bakery production line HARARE, ZIMBABWE  – The price of a standard loaf of bread in Zimbabwe has risen sharply, with a snap survey across major urban centres showing retail prices now ranging between US$1 and US$1.17 , as rising fuel costs continue to push up production and distribution expenses. Industry players say the increase reflects mounting pressure across the supply chain, with bakers citing higher transport costs, wage demands, and more expensive raw materials. The Bakers Association of Zimbabwe confirmed the price movement, noting that production costs have been steadily climbing in recent weeks. Association president Elvis Ncube said while bakers are free to set their own prices, the recommended retail price currently stands at US$1.10 per loaf . “Costs of production are increasing, which is pushing prices up. It is up to individual bakers to set their prices. We have multiple cost drivers,” said Ncube. Zimbabwe’s baking industry relies heavily on daily distribution networks to supply fresh bread nationwide, making it particularly sensitive to fuel price fluctuations. Bakers say recent increases in fuel prices have significantly raised transport costs, affecting both the delivery of finished products and the sourcing of key inputs such as flour and packaging materials. “When we talk of cost escalation, we are not referring to fuel only. Wages are rising, suppliers have increased prices for materials, and fuel is also required for production and distribution,” Ncube added. Economists say the bread price increase highlights how fuel costs continue to act as a key inflation driver in Zimbabwe’s economy, with knock-on effects across essential goods. “Bread is a staple commodity, so any increase in its price is immediately felt by households and reflects broader inflationary pressures,” said a Harare-based economic analyst. A spot check by Southerton Business Times  in areas including Harare, Bulawayo, and Mutare confirmed the price range, with some retailers already pricing above the recommended level. Consumers expressed concern over the continued rise in the cost of basic goods. “Bread is something we buy almost every day. When the price goes up, it affects the whole household budget,” said a shopper in Harare’s central business district. Bakers warn that profit margins are being squeezed as input costs rise faster than consumer purchasing power, forcing difficult pricing decisions. The sector has also faced recurring challenges linked to foreign currency shortages, fluctuating exchange rates, and rising utility costs, all of which feed into the final shelf price. Analysts note that unless cost pressures ease, particularly fuel prices, further increases in bread and other basic commodities remain likely. The latest bread price hikes are expected to intensify cost-of-living pressures for Zimbabwean households already grappling with rising prices of food, transport, and other essentials. With bread widely regarded as a daily staple, even small increases can have an outsized impact on low-income consumers. Zimbabwe bread price increase

Catholic Bishops' Conference meeting in Zimbabwe The Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference (ZCBC) has strongly criticised the proposed Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Bill, 2026, warning that it could weaken democratic governance and erode citizens’ power. In a pastoral letter issued on March 19, Roman Catholic bishops urged members of the Parliament of Zimbabwe to reject the bill on grounds of conscience. In the letter, signed by all seven bishops, the church leaders emphasised the importance of the Constitution of Zimbabwe as a foundational national covenant. “Our Constitution is more than law; it is a solemn covenant, born from the overwhelming will of Zimbabweans in 2013,” the bishops said. They warned that proposals in the Constitution Amendment Bill, Zimbabwe 2026 , could strip citizens of direct influence over executive authority. The bishops raised alarm over provisions that would remove direct presidential elections, arguing that this would effectively transfer power away from voters. They also criticised plans to extend presidential and parliamentary terms from five to seven years without a fresh electoral mandate, saying this “undermines democratic legitimacy.” Additionally, the church leaders pointed to Section 328(7) of the Constitution, which requires a referendum for changes that allow incumbents to benefit from term extensions. Ignoring this provision, they said, creates “a glaring contradiction” that threatens Zimbabwe’s constitutional democracy. The ZCBC warned that the proposed changes could compromise the independence of critical institutions, including the judiciary, prosecution services, and electoral bodies. They expressed concern over increased presidential influence in appointing judges and the Prosecutor General, as well as proposed shifts in electoral responsibilities away from the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission . The bishops also cautioned against provisions that could allow traditional leaders to act in a politically partisan manner. In a strongly worded appeal, the bishops urged MPs and senators to prioritise national interest over political pressure. “You bear a sacred duty before God and the nation: to govern for the common good, not personal or partisan gain,” the letter read. “Pressures—be they bribes, threats, or promises may tempt you… Chokwadi chinokunda/ iqiniso liyanqoba truth prevails.” They called on lawmakers to reject any constitutional changes that undermine the voice of citizens. The bishops stressed that any major constitutional reforms should be subjected to public scrutiny and approval. “If these amendments genuinely serve the nation’s welfare, let the people affirm them,” the letter said. They emphasised the need for transparency, broad consultation and, where necessary, a referendum to ensure that the Constitution remains a document owned by all Zimbabweans. Zimbabwe Constitution Amendment Bill

Simon Rudland Lawyers for businessman Simon Rudland have demanded that the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) retract an article they say falsely accused him of financing violent protests aimed at toppling President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government. The legal team has given the broadcaster two days to remove the article or face court action. In a letter dated Tuesday, Rudland’s lawyer Norman Chimuka of Chimuka Mafunga Commercial Attorneys wrote to ZBC chief executive Sugar Chagonda demanding “a full, unconditional, and unreserved withdrawal” of the publication, along with an expression of regret. The dispute centres on a ZBC article published on March 10 titled “Kasukuwere, Mambondiyani plot violent protest using Biti’s forum, ZINASU and bloggers as fronts.” The report alleged that Rudland was “the major sponsor” behind plans to organise demonstrations and had “wired substantial amounts of money” to support the effort. It also named former minister Saviour Kasukuwere and activist Danmore Mambondiyani, claiming they were working to orchestrate mass protests aimed at forcing political change. According to the article, the alleged activities were linked to the Constitutional Defenders Forum, a group associated with former finance minister Tendai Biti, which opposes proposals to extend Mnangagwa’s presidential term. Rudland’s legal team said the publication would lead any reasonable reader to conclude that he was involved in financing efforts to violently overthrow a constitutionally elected government. They argued that such claims effectively amount to accusations of treason, which they described as false and damaging. “The article falsely imputes treasonous actions to our client while relying on and hiding behind unverified sources,” the lawyers said. They also criticised ZBC for allegedly failing to seek comment from Rudland before publication, saying this fell short of accepted journalistic standards. The lawyers warned that failure to comply with the demand would result in legal proceedings, including an application for an injunction and a claim for damages. “They will pursue legal remedies without further notice,” the letter states. The case adds to ongoing tensions between media organisations and public figures over reporting standards, verification processes, and the handling of politically sensitive allegations. Simon Rudland ZBC

A technical flowchart illustrating the 'Ghost Employee' fraud cycle, showing the flow of misrepresented data from the fraudster to the financial institution and the subsequent laundering of illicit funds. Harare, Zimbabwe- The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP)  have arrested 39-year-old Lionel Tanaka Zvarivadza in connection with a sophisticated fraud and money laundering scheme that prejudiced a local financial service provider of USD $91,500. The suspect is accused of fabricating a corporate loan agreement using "ghost employees" recruited from the streets to siphon funds from the complainant. According to a statement released by Detective Inspector R. Muteweri, the fraud involved a multi-layered misrepresentation of corporate identity and employment status. The Fictitious Agreement:  Zvarivadza allegedly entered into a contract with a lender, claiming his private security company would facilitate loans for its staff. Repayments were supposedly to be deducted directly from salaries. The Recruitment: The suspect recruited 35 individuals from the street, posing them as legitimate security guards. The Payout: Upon providing forged confirmation letters, the lender disbursed individual loans ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. These funds were handed directly to Zvarivadza. The Discovery: The scheme collapsed when the loans went unserviced. Enquiries with the actual security company revealed they had no such agreement and that the "borrowers" were never on their payroll. Zvarivadza faces dual charges that carry significant weight under Zimbabwean law: Fraud: As defined in Section 136 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act. Money Laundering: Contravening Section 8 of the Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act (Chapter 9:24). Currently, none of the $91,500 has been recovered. The suspect is scheduled to appear in court today, March 20, 2026. The police have urged financial institutions and the transacting public to move beyond "paper-deep" verification. The ease with which confirmation letters were forged in this case highlights a critical need for: Direct, independent verification with HR departments. Site visits to verify the physical existence and operational scale of "partner" companies. Biometric or digital identity verification for individual loan applicants. Lionel Tanaka Zvarivadza arrest fraud

MCAZ Director General, Mr. Richard T. Rukwata Harare, Zimbabwe- The Health Professions Authority Zimbabwe (HPAZ)  has launched a nationwide crackdown on beauty salons, wellness spas, and "unregistered boutiques" offering invasive medical treatments. HPAZ Secretary General Clotilda Chimbwanda warned that the authority is invoking the Health Professions Act (Chapter 27:19)  to prosecute operators who are misrepresenting their qualifications and endangering public health. The authority highlighted a growing trend where non-medical staff are performing procedures that involve breaking the skin or administering chemical substances. Procedures strictly reserved for licensed health facilities include: Surgical Enhancements: Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBL), liposuction, tummy tucks, and breast augmentations. Injectables: Botox, dermal fillers, IV vitamin infusions, and injection-based fat reduction (lipolysis). Advanced Skin Treatments: Deep chemical peels and microneedling with PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma). The HPAZ has clarified that "medical acts" performed outside a registered health institution are criminal offenses under the following sections of the Act: Section 99: Mandates that no person shall carry on a health institution unless it is registered with the HPA. Section 121: Prohibits anyone from practicing as a health professional or performing related procedures unless registered. Section 126: Makes it a criminal offense to misrepresent qualifications or perform duties reserved for licensed professionals. To avoid botched procedures and permanent scarring, Chimbwanda urged the public to perform a three-step credential check before undergoing any treatment: Display Check: Look for the HPA Registration Certificate, which must be prominently displayed in the facility's reception area. Practitioner Check: Ask to see a current Practicing Certificate from the relevant medical council (e.g., Medical and Dental Practitioners Council of Zimbabwe). The "Refusal" Red Flag: If a facility refuses to show its credentials, it is likely illegal. Citizens are encouraged to report such suspicious activity immediately to the authorities. HPAZ Zimbabwe cosmetic procedure warning

Warren Chiwawa Suspicious items found outside the office of Harare City Council ’s newly appointed chamber secretary, Warren Chiwawa , have triggered unease among staff and speculation about possible witchcraft. The incident reportedly occurred at Town House, the headquarters of the Harare City Council, where Chiwawa’s office is located. According to reports, cat faeces were discovered smeared on the door to his office early one morning. In a separate incident, a dead bird and peanuts were allegedly found in his designated parking bay. The unusual findings have fuelled suspicions among some employees that the items may have been placed deliberately, possibly as part of ritual practices associated with black magic. Chiwawa confirmed the incidents, saying the situation has been unsettling. “Someone has been performing black magic at my office and parking bay since last week. It is scary,” he said. Harare mayor Jacob Mafume acknowledged being briefed on the matter, describing the developments as concerning, though he questioned the persistence of such beliefs. “Yes, our chamber secretary briefed me on the matter, but it is surprising that there are people who still believe in black magic,” Mafume said. The incidents have reportedly heightened anxiety among staff, with some expressing discomfort about accessing certain areas within the building. One employee who removed the items said they took precautionary measures, including sprinkling salt on the materials before disposing of them. While such incidents are rare in formal workplace environments, they are not entirely unheard of in Zimbabwe, where beliefs in witchcraft and spiritual practices remain prevalent in some communities. Experts note that allegations of ritual activity often emerge in contexts of workplace rivalry or leadership disputes, particularly in positions associated with influence or authority. Authorities have not indicated whether any formal investigation has been launched, and it remains unclear who may be responsible for placing the items. Harare Town House incident witchcraft claims

Bernard Hwete Harare, Zimbabwe- Ex-convict Bernard Hwete , widely known as "Liquid Yonke," has returned to the prison system less than two years after his release, following a bizarre refusal to perform community service. Despite being offered a non-custodial sentence for the theft of a high-value iPhone, Hwete told the Harare Magistrate  that he would not clean the city, arguing that such tasks are the sole responsibility of the Harare City Council. Hwete, who completed a drug-related sentence in March 2024, blamed a "lady of the night" for his legal relapse. According to his account: The Incident: While at a nightclub on Nelson Mandela Avenue, a woman allegedly stole a high-end iPhone. Hwete grabbed the device from her, unaware of the impending "chaos." The Valuation Gap: Hwete attempted to "settle" the matter by offering the woman US$40 for the phone. However, the victim was reportedly tipped off that the device’s market value was comparable to a Honda Fit (approximately US$3,000–$5,000). The Arrest: Following the failed negotiation, Hwete was reported to the police and subsequently convicted of theft. By choosing incarceration over community service, Hwete has entered a facility currently operating at over 200% capacity. Capacity: 1,128 inmates. Current Population: 2,260 inmates. The Sentence: 12 months in prison, with five months suspended (effectively seven months to serve). Despite his defiance in court, Hwete was among the beneficiaries of a recent outreach initiative by the Pathway to Reintegration Foundation (PAREF)  and the ZPCS . The event saw a significant donation from Madzibaba Nigel Dokwani  of Johanne Masowe yeChishanu, who provided inmates with: Plastic shoes and toiletries. Toothbrushes and soccer balls to aid in recreation and hygiene. The case highlights a growing concern for the judiciary: while community service is designed to de-congest prisons, the refusal by convicts to participate further strains an already overextended correctional system.   Bernard Hwete Liquid Yonke prison