Parliament Advances Constitutional Amendment Bill

Legislators approved the third constitutional amendment bill following a heated parliamentary session.

National Assembly Passes Constitutional Amendment Bill 3

Legislators voted 216 to 42 to advance the contentious bill.

The National Assembly approved the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No. 3) Bill on Tuesday. Legislators secured the required two-thirds majority with 216 votes in favor and 42 against. Opposition members staged protests during the session. Parliament ejected CCC legislator Caston Matewu from the chamber following a heated exchange. The bill's implications for presidential term limits create deep political polarization.

Constitutional Court Rejects Challenges to Amendment Bill

Judges dismissed multiple applications seeking to halt the legislative process.

The Constitutional Court struck down two separate legal challenges against the third constitutional amendment. The court dismissed applications from six liberation war veterans and former legislator Prince Dubeko Sibanda. These rulings clear the immediate legal path for the bill. The court had reserved judgment on these matters following hearings held in May. Opponents have exhausted judicial avenues to block the amendment through the courts.

Zimbabwe Repatriates Citizens Fleeing South African Unrest

Authorities assist hundreds of nationals returning amid rising anti-immigrant tensions.

Zimbabwe repatriated 660 citizens from South Africa this month as anti-immigrant sentiment intensified. The government provides an immigrants rebate to assist those returning from xenophobic threats. Migrants clashed with police at deportation sites where authorities process thousands. The influx of returnees places immediate pressure on local social services. Regional instability threatens to disrupt economic recovery efforts.

President Declares Triangle Bus Crash a National Disaster

Government mobilizes support following a fatal collision between a bus and a train.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared the fatal collision in Triangle a national disaster. A passenger bus struck a goods train on Tuesday, resulting in nine deaths and 26 injuries. The government directed resources toward supporting bereaved families and injured survivors. Insurance providers offered funeral and medical compensation for the victims. Systemic lack of safety infrastructure at railway crossings remains a critical vulnerability.

Central Bank Reduces Benchmark Interest Rate

The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe lowered the policy rate to 30 percent.

The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe reduced its benchmark policy rate from 35 percent to 30 percent. The central bank cited a shift toward a more stable inflation environment. The move aims to lower borrowing costs for productive sectors. Analysts remain divided on whether this will stimulate sufficient economic growth. Lower rates may fail to address underlying household financial pressures.

Foreign Currency Reserves Backing ZiG Increase

Reserves reached US$1.5 billion as of May 2026.

Zimbabwe's foreign currency reserves backing the ZiG rose to US$1.5 billion by May 2026. This amount provides the country with approximately 1.5 months of import cover. Experts note the country requires two more years of sustained growth to reach the three-month threshold. The reserve buildup strengthens the currency against external shocks. Sustained economic growth is required to ensure full reserve adequacy.

Stanbic Bank Commits US$800 Million to Agriculture

The bank aims to transform the agricultural value chain through new financing.

Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe mobilized US$800 million to finance the agricultural sector. The initiative focuses on transforming the agricultural value chain to boost productivity. This capital injection supports farmers and agribusinesses in scaling operations. The investment represents a significant commitment to long-term development. Reliance on favorable weather and market conditions threatens project success.

Government Sets New Minimum Wages for Domestic Workers

Cabinet approved a US$90 monthly minimum wage for domestic staff.

The government gazetted new minimum wages for domestic workers, including gardeners and housekeepers. The new monthly minimum is set at US$90, while unclassified operations receive US$270. This decision follows Cabinet approval aimed at improving livelihoods for low-income employees. The announcement sparked debate regarding the timing compared to civil service adjustments. Increased labor costs may impact household employment levels.

Zimbabwe Licenses Second Gold Refinery

The new facility in Bulawayo will process rising gold output.

Zimbabwe licensed a second gold refinery to handle increasing production. The facility will be located in Bulawayo and is scheduled for commissioning next year. This expansion improves processing capacity for gold purchases. The government expects the refinery to support mining sector growth through efficient local processing. Consistent gold supply is required to maintain operational viability.

Government Regulates August Holiday Lessons

Authorities capped vacation school at 10 days with strict fee controls.

The government authorized 10-day vacation lessons for examination classes during the August holidays. Authorities imposed strict fee caps to protect parents from excessive charges. The ministry prohibited lessons during the Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day public holidays. This regulatory move balances academic support with financial protection. Enforcing these fee caps across all schools remains a challenge.

The Jeere 2026-06-19  ·  stories

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