Archive — 2026-08-13

President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared a state of disaster under the Civil Protection Act after the Mbuya Nehanda ferry capsized on Lake Kariba, with the death toll rising to 44, according to iHarare and New Zimbabwe. The Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA)-operated vessel was overloaded with over 114 passengers despite a 90-person capacity, as reported by multiple outlets including ZimEye. Survivors recounted harrowing moments, with one security officer stating 153 people were on board, per New Zimbabwe. Opposition groups and the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) demanded full accountability, arguing that mourning alone is insufficient, as reported by Daily News. Mnangagwa acknowledged systemic maritime safety failures and ordered an urgent overhaul, according to New Zimbabwe. The tragedy exposes institutional negligence and has sparked calls for heads to roll, with investigations ongoing.

The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the Zimbabwean government have partnered to unveil a new agriculture strategy aimed at identifying key investment opportunities, according to Daily News. The initiative, launched in Bulawayo, targets boosting domestic agricultural productivity and addressing food security challenges by focusing on crops, livestock, and irrigation systems to reduce import dependency, as part of the National Development Strategy. The strategy was developed after extensive consultations with farmers, agribusinesses, and development partners, as reported by Daily News. It seeks to leverage technical expertise and funding from the FAO to modernize the sector and improve rural livelihoods through sustainable practices and value chain development, aiming to enhance resilience against climate shocks and create jobs. This collaboration could transform Zimbabwe's agricultural landscape, but implementation will require sustained political will and private sector engagement to realize its full potential and achieve food sovereignty.

The Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC) has opened formal investigations into multiple allegations of sexual abuse by school staff targeting students, according to Daily News. The ZGC chairperson stated that the commission will not tolerate any form of abuse and will ensure thorough investigations, aiming to hold perpetrators accountable and address systemic failures in protecting children across several provinces. The investigations follow growing public outcry over the prevalence of abuse in schools, with victims and advocacy groups demanding stricter safeguards and justice. The ZGC, which has powers to summon witnesses, is expected to interview victims, staff, and administrators to uncover the extent of the problem, and the Ministry of Education has pledged full cooperation, as reported by Daily News. This crackdown signals a potential shift in institutional accountability, but long-term change will require sustained political will and community engagement to ensure safe learning environments.

As Zambia heads to the polls, President Hakainde Hichilema's re-election bid is shadowed by his feud with predecessor Edgar Lungu, according to New Zimbabwe. The bitter rivalry between the two leaders, their families, and supporters has deepened political polarization, with the ghost of the arch-rival hanging over the elections. The feud has led to sporadic violence and legal battles, with both sides accusing each other of undermining democratic processes, according to New Zimbabwe. The election outcome could reshape Zambia's democratic trajectory, with tensions high over allegations of state capture and electoral manipulation. Hichilema, who defeated Lungu by a landslide in 2021, now faces a fragmented opposition and a restive electorate, as reported by New Zimbabwe, citing The Guardian. This election is a critical test for Zambia's democracy, with potential spillover effects for regional stability in Southern Africa.

Authorities have shut down a Bindura mine due to serious dust, infrastructure, and environmental risks that endangered nearby communities and safety, according to iHarare. The closure underscores regulatory enforcement lapses and the mining sector's environmental compliance failures, with the mine having operated without adequate dust control measures. The mine, owned by a major mining company, had been flagged for non-compliance previously, according to iHarare. Inspectors found crumbling infrastructure and improper waste disposal, posing risks of accidents and pollution for residents and workers. Local residents have complained of respiratory problems and water contamination, demanding compensation and long-term health monitoring. This action raises questions about industry accountability and the protection of public health in mining areas, with calls for stricter oversight and rehabilitation of affected sites.

Mutare Mayor Simon Chabuka has warned of deteriorating basic services, rising crime, and worsening water losses across the city, according to Daily News. He highlighted infrastructure decay and governance challenges as key drivers of the decline, with the city council struggling to maintain essential amenities like waste collection and street lighting. Chabuka noted that the city's revenue collection is insufficient to cover operational costs, leading to a backlog of maintenance projects, according to Daily News. The mayor cited a 40% water loss rate due to burst pipes and illegal connections, exacerbating shortages for residents. Crime rates have increased as economic hardships push more people into illicit activities, and the mayor called for national intervention to address the crisis, as reported by Daily News. This warning signals a deepening urban crisis in Zimbabwe, with local authorities facing fiscal constraints and limited central government support, threatening public safety and quality of life.

Zimbabwe's prolonged stadium crisis will continue forcing local teams to play abroad after authorities failed to complete critical renovations, according to Daily News. The delay highlights regulatory bottlenecks and infrastructure neglect in the sports sector, with the National Sports Stadium and Barbourfields still not meeting CAF standards. Renovations have been delayed for years due to corruption and lack of funds, with the government failing to prioritize sports infrastructure, according to Daily News. This situation undermines local club development and fan engagement, as teams like Dynamos and Highlanders incur high costs for hosting matches in South Africa and Botswana. The crisis also exposes broader governance failures in sports administration, with the government and football association trading blame, as reported by Daily News. Without urgent investment and political will, Zimbabwe's football will remain in exile, stifling grassroots growth and national pride.

Zimbabwe's Foreign Affairs Minister Amon Murwira urged SADC member states to reject divisive forces and unite for regional stability, according to Daily News. The call comes amid growing geopolitical tensions within the bloc over external interference and internal conflicts, particularly in the eastern DRC. Murwira made the remarks at a SADC Council of Ministers meeting in Harare, where he denied allegations of Zimbabwe's interference in other countries, according to Daily News. Murwira emphasized that unity is essential to counter external manipulation and address shared security threats like terrorism and climate change. He also called for stronger economic integration to reduce dependency on outside powers, and reaffirmed Zimbabwe's commitment to SADC's principles, as reported by Daily News. This statement underscores Harare's push for solidarity as SADC faces challenges to its collective security framework, but its impact depends on member states' willingness to act collectively.

Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume argues that inDrive drivers should accept sharing income with the City Council as it contemplates a new e-hailing bylaw, according to New Zimbabwe. The proposed regulations aim to formalize the sector but have sparked tension between drivers and municipal police, with drivers accusing the council of extortion. The bylaw, which is expected to be tabled before the council soon, would require e-hailing companies to pay a percentage of their earnings to the city, according to New Zimbabwe. Drivers complain that they are being penalized despite operating as registered transport providers, while the council seeks to generate revenue from the growing e-hailing market. Mafume stated that the bylaw will bring order and ensure fair competition, and that drivers should not mind sharing income, as reported by New Zimbabwe. This dispute highlights the clash between informal transport operators and municipal revenue-seeking strategies, with implications for urban mobility and governance in Harare.

Six people died in two separate road crashes on Tuesday, with police revealing one vehicle carried 29 passengers and another seven, according to iHarare. The accidents underscore chronic overloading and poor road safety enforcement in Zimbabwe, with the first crash occurring on the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls road. The accidents highlight the dangers of informal transport, where operators often overload vehicles to maximize profits, according to iHarare. The second crash near Harare involved a vehicle carrying seven passengers, all of whom were killed. Police issued a fresh warning against overloading, but enforcement remains weak due to corruption and lack of resources, as reported by iHarare. These tragedies reignite calls for stricter traffic regulations and improved infrastructure to prevent further loss of life on Zimbabwe's roads.

A senior education official urged schools to transform traditional indigenous knowledge into practical economic assets for national development, according to Daily News. The call, made at a conference on education reform, aims to integrate cultural heritage into modern curricula and entrepreneurship, encouraging students to develop products based on traditional practices. The official also called for partnerships with the private sector to develop value chains for indigenous products, according to Daily News. The official highlighted examples such as traditional medicine, crafts, and agricultural techniques that could be commercialized to create jobs and boost local economies. Critics warn that without proper safeguards, commercialization could lead to exploitation of indigenous communities and loss of traditional knowledge, as reported by Daily News. This push could empower communities economically, but success hinges on balancing innovation with respect for cultural heritage and ensuring equitable benefit-sharing.

South Africa's Gayton McKenzie faces new criticism as the DA accuses his leadership of crippling the country's film and television industry, according to iHarare. Allegations include mismanagement and policy failures that have stifled creative production, leading to a decline in local content and job losses. The film industry contributes billions to South Africa's economy and employs thousands, making the accusations significant, according to iHarare. The DA claims that McKenzie's department has failed to disburse funds for film projects and has imposed burdensome regulations that discourage investment. McKenzie has denied the allegations, blaming the previous administration for the sector's woes and promising reforms, as reported by iHarare. This dispute highlights tensions over cultural policy and government support for the arts sector in South Africa, with implications for the creative economy and regional cultural influence.

Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe has signed a one-year revolving agreement with environmental organization Ele-Collection to support waste management and local job creation, according to Daily News. The partnership aims to address environmental challenges while promoting sustainable economic opportunities in Victoria Falls, a major tourism hub. The agreement is part of Stanbic's corporate social responsibility program, which focuses on environmental sustainability, according to Daily News. Ele-Collection will collect and recycle plastic, paper, and organic waste from hotels and businesses, creating at least 50 jobs for local youth. Stanbic will provide financing and technical support, with the potential to expand the model to other tourist destinations, as reported by Daily News. This corporate-community collaboration could serve as a model for green financing in tourism hubs, demonstrating how private sector engagement can drive environmental sustainability and community development.

The bail ruling for socialite Kelsea Tafirenyika, accused in a drug case with Jessub, has been postponed to today, according to Daily News and NewsDay. The State opposed bail, citing the seriousness of the charges and the risk of flight, while the defense is expected to file a replication to arguments. Tafirenyika, a well-known socialite, faces charges of possession and dealing in illegal substances, according to Daily News. Harare regional magistrate Marehwanazvo Gofa postponed the ruling to allow the defense to respond to the State's submissions. The case has drawn public attention amid broader concerns over drug abuse and judicial processes in Zimbabwe, with activists calling for stricter enforcement, as reported by Daily News and NewsDay. This delay highlights the complexities of drug-related prosecutions and the need for efficient judicial handling of high-profile cases to maintain public confidence.

Musician Kurai Makore appears to have moved beyond legendary Chimurenga artist Thomas Mapfumo's influence in his latest work, according to Daily News. The shift signals an evolution in Zimbabwe's music scene as younger artists forge independent identities and explore new genres like Afro-fusion and electronic music. Makore has stated that he respects Mapfumo but wants to create his own path, reflecting a broader trend among young Zimbabwean musicians, according to Daily News. Makore's new album, titled "Mbudzi," blends traditional mbira with contemporary sounds, marking a clear departure from Mapfumo's style. Critics have praised the innovation but some purists argue it dilutes cultural heritage, sparking a debate about authenticity, as reported by Daily News. This departure from tradition could redefine cultural expression while sparking debates about preserving heritage versus innovation in Zimbabwean music.

Joel Luphahla is linked with an immediate return to the Premier Soccer League after parting ways with FC Platinum, according to iHarare. His potential comeback reflects the fluid nature of coaching appointments in Zimbabwean football, with several clubs seeking experienced leadership. Luphahla, who has also coached the Zimbabwe national team, is considered one of the country's top tacticians, according to iHarare. Highlanders and CAPS United are reportedly interested in hiring Luphahla, who led FC Platinum to league titles in the past. His departure from FC Platinum was mutual, and he is eager to take on a new challenge ahead of the new season, as reported by iHarare. The move could reshape team dynamics as clubs scramble for experienced leadership, with Luphahla's track record making him a sought-after candidate to stabilize struggling teams.

Warriors coach Kaitano Tembo has explained why Jonah Fabisch's move to South Africa is beneficial for his career development, according to iHarare. Tembo believes the transfer will expose the player to higher competition levels and growth opportunities that are not available in Zimbabwe. Tembo also warned that players must be mentally prepared for the challenges abroad, but he is confident Fabisch will succeed, according to iHarare. Fabisch, a promising midfielder, has joined Kaizer Chiefs after impressing with CAPS United in the Zimbabwean league. Tembo stated that playing in a more competitive environment will help Fabisch improve his skills and increase his chances of national team selection, as reported by iHarare. The endorsement underscores the importance of regional mobility for Zimbabwean talent seeking professional advancement and exposure to better facilities and coaching.

Internal divisions at Dynamos Football Club are delaying the appointment of a new assistant coach, with leadership disagreements stalling progress, according to iHarare. The infighting threatens the club's stability and preparation for upcoming matches in the PSL. Dynamos have a history of internal conflicts, and this latest delay is seen as another chapter in the club's governance woes, according to iHarare. The club's board is split over the candidate, with some members favoring an internal promotion while others want an external hire with more experience. This deadlock has frustrated fans and players, who are calling for a resolution to avoid further disruption, as reported by iHarare. This dysfunction reflects broader governance challenges in Zimbabwean football that hinder team performance and fan confidence, with Dynamos being a prime example of how infighting can derail a club.