After a two-year hiatus, former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa has declared his return to active politics, launching a new broad-based citizens' movement ahead of the 2028 general elections. Chamisa, who describes his comeback as a 'fresh start' with 'Agenda 2026', emphasized that the journey to a new Zimbabwe begins with current foundational efforts. He also definitively rejected any possibility of reuniting with former opposition colleagues, stressing a decisive new direction. While his return has generated excitement among supporters, political analysts remain cautiously optimistic about the immediate impact.
The National Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (NANGO) has warned that the recently enacted law regulating NGOs and civic society organizations (CSOs) will significantly curtail their operations in Zimbabwe. Observers anticipate a challenging year for these entities as the government's new legislation takes full effect.
The Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) has announced a 100% increase in examination fees for the June 2026 Ordinary and Advanced Level candidates. This significant hike is attributed to the removal of a government subsidy, directly impacting students who will now be required to pay double the previous fees. The new fee structure was outlined in Finance Circular Number 2 of 2026.
Zimbabwe and Zambia are pressing forward with the $4.5 billion Batoka Gorge Hydro Electric Scheme on the Zambezi River, despite growing concerns over declining water levels due to climate change. The project, designed to generate 2,400 MW, faces questions regarding its long-term viability. Both governments maintain their commitment, citing feasibility studies that support the project's sustainability amidst environmental challenges.
White farmers in Zimbabwe are reportedly seeking assistance from the US administration to secure a $3.5 billion compensation package for land seized during state-backed invasions starting in 2000. A US lobbying firm, Mercury Public Affairs LLC, known for its connections to former President Trump, has agreed to represent the farmers' case to American politicians pro bono. This move comes despite the Zimbabwean government agreeing in 2020 to pay compensation.
There is a notable surge in individuals seeking affiliation with Zanu PF, reportedly driven by opportunities for cash and vehicles. This rush coincides with efforts by President Emmerson Mnangagwa's loyalists to extend his term beyond 2030, despite constitutional provisions requiring his retirement in 2028 after two five-year terms. Fortune seekers, including former football players and touts, are forming Zanu PF affiliates to pledge loyalty to the 83-year-old leader, aiming to capitalize on the associated benefits.
By 2028, Generation Z is projected to form the majority of Africa's electorate, poised to significantly reshape the continent's political landscape. This demographic shift is expected to introduce new political priorities, moving away from traditional narratives rooted in liberation struggles and focusing on contemporary issues relevant to the younger generation.
The government has initiated an extensive project to rehabilitate 426 irrigation schemes across Zimbabwe. This ambitious undertaking aims to significantly improve livelihoods and uplift communities, particularly in arid regions of the country, by enhancing agricultural productivity and water management.
The United States formally withdrew from the World Health Organization (WHO) after a year of expressing concerns that such a move would negatively impact global public health. The decision, announced by President Donald Trump, was justified by perceived failures in the UN health agency's management of the COVID-19 pandemic. This exit followed prior warnings regarding the potential repercussions for health efforts worldwide.
Despite farmers across Zimbabwe successfully exceeding the maize planting target for the current summer agricultural season, reaching 105% of the planned area, crop yields are now under threat. Reports indicate significant challenges from pests and soil leaching, which could severely impact the harvest and overall food security.
The Mbuya Nehanda Maternal Hospital, located at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, is slated for official reopening on Independence Day in April. This announcement by George Guvamatanga signifies a crucial step towards enhancing maternal healthcare facilities in the country.
Police in Zvishavane, Midlands province, have arrested a 28-year-old man in connection with the murder of his six-year-old niece. The tragic incident occurred after the man allegedly flogged the child to death for failing to correctly spell her name. Zimbabwe Republic Police national spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the arrest and the details of this deeply disturbing case.
The Zimbabwe Civil Liberties and Drug Network (ZCLDN) has issued a warning that proposed mandatory custodial sentences for drug offenses could exacerbate the already critical issue of prison overcrowding. The organization argues that such measures would place an unsustainable burden on the correctional system without effectively addressing the root causes of drug-related crime.
Minister Mthuli Ncube has provided clarification regarding the government's decision to discontinue payments to microfinance lenders. This move has sparked discussions within the financial sector, and the minister's explanation aims to address the reasons behind the policy change and its potential implications for the microfinance industry.
The newly established civic group, Defend the Constitution Platform (DCP), is threatening legal action against Senate President Mabel Chinomona. The group alleges that public funds from Parliament were improperly used to renovate her private residence in Harare. Senator Jameson Timba, convenor of the DCP, announced this initiative during the platform's launch, highlighting their commitment to challenging such alleged abuses of public office.
The Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has announced a significant crackdown on the sale and use of unauthorized decoders, issuing a stern warning against the illegal provision of broadcasting services nationwide. The regulatory body specifically identified popular brands like OpenView HD (OVHD), StarSat, DigiSat, and Mediastar as targets in its enforcement efforts to curb unapproved access to broadcast content.
Paul Tungwarara, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s special investment advisor for the UAE, faces accusations of involvement in the looting of presidential funds. This comes amidst escalating factional wars within Zanu PF, as Tungwarara's public pronouncements against political rivals during Presidential Economic Empowerment Revolving Fund rallies in Manicaland have drawn scrutiny. His growing visibility is also linked to concerns over waning investor confidence in his international work.
The UK House of Lords has supported a measure to ban social media platforms for individuals under 16 years of age. Peers voted 261 to 150 in favor of an amendment to the government's schools bill, signaling a legislative push to protect minors online. While the government has indicated it may try to overturn this amendment in the Commons, the vote highlights a strong parliamentary concern over youth engagement with social media.
The Gold Mafia saga has taken a new turn as Mehluleli Dube, who headed gold operations at Fidelity Printers and Refiners from 1989 to 2022, has initiated legal proceedings. Dube has approached the High Court, suing a media network for defamation, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing investigations and public discourse surrounding alleged illicit gold dealings.
NetOne, in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth, has launched a comprehensive digital skills drive aimed at empowering young people. NetOne CEO Raphael Mushanawani stated that the program's objective extends beyond mere connectivity, focusing on creating tangible economic opportunities for the youth through digital literacy and advanced skills training.
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