Kariba ferry death toll hits 84

Police confirm 84 dead, 77 rescued, as passenger numbers under scrutiny.

Youth Games return after six-year break

Youth Games resume after six-year hiatus, featuring young athletes from across Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe's Youth Games returned after a six-year break, showcasing emerging sporting talent from across the country. The games were held in August 2026. The games were suspended due to funding and organizational challenges. Their return signals renewed investment in youth sports development. This event highlights a commitment to nurturing future athletes.

Road accidents fall 26 percent during holidays

Police report 26% drop in road accidents during Heroes and Defence Forces holidays.

Zimbabwe recorded a 26% decline in road traffic accidents during the 2026 Heroes and Defence Forces holidays, with 18 deaths compared to 24 last year. Police reported 145 accidents over the two days. The holidays typically see high traffic and accidents. The decline may be due to increased enforcement or public awareness campaigns. This improvement reflects effective road safety measures during the period.

Kariba ferry death toll hits 84

Police confirm 84 dead, 77 rescued, as passenger numbers under scrutiny.

The death toll from the Lake Kariba ferry disaster climbed to 84 on August 16 after police recovered eight more bodies. The Mbuya Nehanda ferry, operated by the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA), capsized on August 11. The initial death toll stood at 46, then rose to 68 and 80 before reaching 84. President Mnangagwa declared a state of disaster and admitted maritime safety failures, but families accuse authorities of neglect. Search operations continue, but the number of passengers appears higher than the official 153, with at least 161 people now accounted for. Lawyers demand an independent investigation into the worst maritime disaster in Zimbabwe's history.

Government ignored Kariba ferry warnings

Reports show authorities ignored safety warnings for over a year before the tragedy.

Reports reveal that the government ignored warnings for more than a year about the unsafe condition of the Mbuya Nehanda ferry. Officials initially claimed 90 passengers were aboard, but later figures contradicted that. Critics say the disaster was preventable and accuse the government of negligence. The failure to act on repeated warnings exposes systemic negligence in maritime safety oversight.

Health workers threaten service withdrawal

Nurses and health apex team warn of protests over unpaid allowances.

Health workers in Zimbabwe threatened to withdraw their services if the government fails to pay outstanding health-specific allowances. The Zimbabwe Nurses Association and the Health Apex Team issued the warning. The government signed an agreement three months ago but has not fulfilled it. Workers accuse the government of bad faith and say they have no choice but to protest. The dispute could disrupt healthcare services across the country.

Zanu PF defends CAA3 amendment

Party spokesperson says amendment aims at unity, not life presidency.

Zanu PF defended the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Act Number 3, claiming it aims to promote national unity and development. Spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa rejected claims of a 'life presidency'. Critics argue the amendment consolidates power around President Mnangagwa. The opposition sees it as a threat to democracy and a step toward authoritarianism. The amendment's true impact will be tested in future elections.

Zimbabwe scraps outdated building laws

Government plans to replace 1977 building by-laws to lower costs and speed up housing.

The government announced plans to scrap the 1977 Model Building By-Laws to reduce construction costs and fast-track housing. The review aims to modernize regulations that have governed construction for nearly 50 years. The move is part of a broader effort to address the housing deficit. Officials say the change will lower barriers for homebuilders. Critics question whether the government can implement the reform effectively.

Zambia halts vote counting after violence

Electoral commission suspends count after attacks on officials and ballot theft.

Zambia's electoral commission suspended vote counting on August 14 after reports of violence against election officials and stolen ballot papers. The suspension will be reviewed within 24 hours. The presidential and parliamentary elections were held on August 13. Tensions have been high, with allegations of fraud and irregularities. The electoral body will review the suspension within 24 hours.

Mnangagwa orders replacement ferry

President orders new ferry and road repairs after Lake Kariba tragedy.

President Mnangagwa ordered the replacement of the ill-fated Mbuya Nehanda ferry and rehabilitation of the Kariba-Siakobvu-Chalala road. Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe made the announcement at a memorial service for the victims. The ferry capsized on August 11, killing at least 84 people. The road has been impassable for years, forcing residents to rely on the lake for transport. The government's commitment comes only after dozens lost their lives.

Victoria Falls property boom surges

Tourism growth drives property investment boom in Victoria Falls.

Victoria Falls is experiencing a property investment boom driven by tourism growth. Demand for hotels, luxury homes, and infrastructure is rising sharply. Tourism has rebounded post-pandemic, attracting foreign investors. The area is a key destination for safari and adventure tourism. This trend reflects a broader recovery in Zimbabwe's tourism sector.

The Jeere 2026-08-17  ·  stories

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