🇿🇼ZimbabweSouthern Africa
Zimbabwe's lithium export ban, political tensions, and economic challenges
via NewsDay Zimbabwe1 min read
Zimbabwe's government halted the export of lithium concentrates and other raw minerals in February, impacting consignments already in transit. This decision is part of a broader economic landscape that includes a 62% surge in tobacco exports due to strong global demand. Meanwhile, political tensions are evident with discussions around a potential referendum and reports of violent attacks and forced evictions related to grasslands plots. The country is also addressing social issues, with the UK launching a £500,000 anti-GBV programme. Economically, ART operations have been affected by power outages and raw material shortages, leading to a 6% decline in export division volumes and a 26% decline in paper division volumes in the third quarter to June 2022. Despite these challenges, the VFEX shows stability, though it may mask underlying value.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by NewsDay Zimbabwe.
The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair has commenced, emphasizing global business engagement. This event takes place amidst various national developments, including a significant political scandal, a tragic lion attack in Hurungwe, and the positive impact of March rains on crop conditions. Economically, tobacco exports have surged by 62% due to strong global demand, and the Premier anticipates resuming lithium exports soon. Other news includes political tensions leading to violence and evictions in grassland plots, the stability of VFEX, and a new ZIDA platform designed to convert investor interest into concrete deals. Socially, Bulawayo is nearing HIV epidemic control, and a man is working to improve Zimbabwe's failing pass rates. The article also touches on the need for independence to be felt, not just celebrated, and a tragic incident in Gwanda serving as a lesson for commuters.
Must ReadZimbabwe is exploring a realistic roadmap for its lithium economy. This initiative comes amidst various national developments, including a significant increase in tobacco exports by 62% due to strong global demand. The country is also addressing political tensions at grasslands plots, which have led to violent attacks and forced evictions. In other news, the UK is set to launch a £500,000 anti-GBV program in Zimbabwe. Meanwhile, the VFEX shows stability, and there are discussions around a job evaluation system. The nation is also focusing on public health, with Bulawayo nearing HIV epidemic control. These efforts collectively highlight Zimbabwe's ongoing economic and social initiatives.
Nyimbo zaKwatu is set to launch a new dialogue series called Women's Denderedzwa, aimed at bringing women in the arts together for solution-focused conversations about their experiences in the creative industry. The first edition will take place on May 13 at Alliance Française in Harare, starting at 8:30 AM. Founder Mary Anibal stated that the initiative was inspired by the tradition of women gathering in a circle, symbolizing shared wisdom and equality. The event will focus on two themes: "The Power of Being: Stories, Struggles and Success" and "Women Harnessing Artificial Intelligence in the Creative Sector." Speakers will include financial literacy expert Theodora Madzinga Chinembiri, women's safety advocate Charlene Chiriseri, broadcaster Becky K, creative director Tariro NeGitare Chaniwa, legal expert Vivian Matsa, musician Anibal, visual artist Nothando Chiwanga, and creative economy practitioner Anesu Chikumba. Creative consultant and voice artist Rutendo Denise Mutsamwira will moderate the discussions. Anibal noted that this platform marks a shift for Nyimbo zaKwatu, moving towards creating conversations that shape the future of creative industries. The event is open to anyone interested in creativity and technology, with free attendance requiring advance registration due to limited space. Nyimbo zaKwatu is also seeking partners and sponsors for the initiative.
Must ReadLiquid Technologies has retired a US$620 million bond ahead of schedule and issued a new US$300 million bond. This transaction is part of a deliberate balance sheet strategy aimed at reducing gearing, mitigating refinancing risks, and maintaining liquidity flexibility during ongoing expansion efforts.