
Zimbabwe's hospitality sector is facing a significant funding deficit of US$30 million in preparation for the IATF 2029. In related news, Stanbic Bank has committed US$30,000 towards clean-up initiatives in Victoria Falls. Other developments include Fidelity unveiling Zimbabwe's first large-scale residential piped gas project and the ZMX reporting rising confidence with trades reaching US$1.28 million. Zimbabwe also commissioned a specialized honey testing laboratory to enhance export competitiveness and delivered a historic milestone by hosting world-class Table Tennis regional championships. Political tensions at grasslands plots have led to violent attacks and forced evictions, while squatters continue to struggle with trauma from Gukurahundi and state-sponsored violence. The VFEX shows stability, though underlying value is masked, and there are concerns that Zanu PF may ambush Zimbabwe towards a referendum. Despite outdated equipment, Zimbabwe's para-athletes are achieving success, and junior water polo teams are poised for global recognition.
Must ReadZimbabwe has commissioned a specialized honey testing laboratory, a move aimed at enhancing the country's export competitiveness in the honey market. This initiative is expected to support local honey producers in meeting international quality standards and accessing global markets.
Must ReadStanbic Bank has committed US$30,000 to support clean-up initiatives in Victoria Falls. Separately, former legislator Dubeko has filed a challenge with the Constitutional Court regarding President Mnangagwa's term extension. Other news includes government efforts to revive the cotton industry, rising confidence in the Zimbabwe Mercantile Exchange ZMX with trades reaching US$1.28 million, and a report on ART operations being affected by power outages and raw material shortages, leading to a 6% decline in exports and a 26% decline in paper division volumes in the third quarter to June 2022. Additionally, Zimbabwe has commissioned a specialized honey testing laboratory to enhance export competitiveness.
Must ReadFormer CCC Member of Parliament Prince Dubeko Sibanda has filed an application with the Constitutional Court ConCourt to nullify recent constitutional amendments that would grant President Emmerson Mnangagwa a two-year term extension. Sibanda argues that the extension of the term of office for the President and legislators from five to seven years should not benefit current incumbents, citing section 3287 of the Constitution. This section prohibits the application of a term extension amendment to any person who held the relevant public office before the amendment. Sibanda's application names Parliament, the President of Zimbabwe, and the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs as respondents. He contends that section 5b of the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Act No. 6 of 2026, which inserted section 952a into the Constitution, is inconsistent with section 3287 and therefore invalid. Sibanda previously attempted to challenge these provisions when they were still a Bill, but the application was struck off as the dispute had not yet crystallized. Now that the Bill has been enacted and promulgated as Act No. 6 of 2026, Sibanda asserts that the impugned clauses have assumed legislative form, and their constitutionality can now be measured against section 3287.
Must ReadZimbabwe has commissioned a specialized honey testing laboratory with the aim of enhancing its export competitiveness. This development comes amidst various local news, including reports of deepening mystery around a city lodge 'murder', resistance from 1,000 new farmers against a takeover of Central Estates, and the expansion of WALPE's women's leadership training program. Other issues highlighted include the government activating an emergency response for Zimbabweans returning from South Africa, churches mobilizing support for those fleeing violence in South Africa, and rising confidence in ZMX with trades hitting US$1.28 million. The article also mentions political tensions leading to violent attacks and forced evictions, power outages and raw material shortages affecting ART operations, and the launch of Brother In House Zimbabwe moving to larger premises. Squatters are reportedly struggling with trauma from Gukurahundi and state-sponsored violence.

Three major shareholders in Dairibord Holdings Limited, Equivest Asset Management Pvt Ltd, Mega Market Pvt Ltd, and Mutare Mart & Exchange Pvt Ltd, are reportedly in negotiations to sell their combined 51% stake in the company. Dairibord, Zimbabwe's largest dairy and beverages group, issued a cautionary statement advising shareholders and the public to exercise caution when trading its stock, as a successful transaction could significantly impact the share price. The statement did not disclose the identity of the prospective buyer, the proposed purchase price, or whether the negotiations are exclusive. This development follows Dairibord's recent announcement of its intention to delist from the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange and subsequently list on the US dollar-denominated Victoria Falls Stock Exchange VFEX. It remains unclear if these two transactions are linked. Dairibord reported a 12-month revenue of US$137 million as of December 31, 2025, with profit margins at 1.4%, a decrease from 4.2% in the previous year.
Must ReadThe Zimbabwean government has initiated a multi-agency emergency response to assist thousands of its citizens returning from South Africa due to anti-migrant protests and xenophobic violence. Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Judith Ncube stated that reception centers have been established to provide civil registration, healthcare, and other essential services. Officials from various government departments are deployed at locations like the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa’s Njube Assembly in Bulawayo to support the returnees. Many arriving citizens lack identity documents or personal belongings, prompting the Civil Registry Department to fast-track the processing of national identity cards and birth certificates. Health workers, local government officials, and other state agencies are also offering medical assessments and psychosocial support. Despite potential pressure on local resources, Ncube affirmed the government's commitment to assisting all returning citizens. Civic organizations in Bulawayo have urged authorities to supplement the emergency response with long-term reintegration programs, including employment support, skills development, and social protection measures.

ZESA has allocated 150 megawatts of power specifically for winter wheat farming. This initiative aims to support agricultural productivity during the winter season. The announcement comes amidst other economic and social developments in Zimbabwe, including a recruitment drive by Econet AI for over 100 engineers, rising confidence in the ZMX market with trades reaching US$1.28 million, and the commissioning of a specialized honey testing laboratory to enhance export competitiveness.

Econet AI, a subsidiary of Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, has initiated a significant recruitment drive to hire more than 100 engineers. This effort is aimed at accelerating the deployment of its artificial intelligence strategy. The company anticipates this to be one of the largest intakes of engineers by a single private company in Zimbabwe in recent years. Successful candidates will undergo intensive AI training before being assigned to roles in product development, customer support, and enterprise solutions. Econet AI has already received applications from engineers in Zimbabwe and Zimbabwean professionals working abroad. This recruitment is the first phase of a broader strategy to expand AI adoption across Zimbabwe by providing AI-powered solutions to businesses and organizations. Some engineers will serve as advisors within these companies. Econet AI chief executive Navdeep Kapur stated the company is seeking graduates in electrical engineering, electronics, computer science, and robotics, including those with honors, master’s, and doctoral qualifications. Kapur noted that over 70 positions are currently being onboarded, with plans for further expansion. The initial focus is on recruiting engineers for AI product development, with additional roles expected as the business grows. This recruitment highlights the increasing investment in artificial intelligence by Zimbabwean companies due to rising demand for AI-driven products, automation, and digital transformation services.
Must ReadZimbabwean citizens who fled unrest in South Africa are reportedly being issued five-year re-entry bans. This development comes amidst various other news items, including a financial update from a manufacturer for the third quarter to June 2022, where exports and paper division volumes declined by 6% and 26% respectively. Other headlines mention Stanbic Bank pledging US$30,000 for Victoria Falls clean-up initiatives, rising confidence in ZMX as trades hit US$1.28 million, and a health workers' union training members on labor rights. Additionally, there are reports of political tensions leading to violence and forced evictions at grasslands plots, and the commissioning of a specialized honey testing laboratory in Zimbabwe to boost export competitiveness.

Malawi's outgoing ambassador to Zimbabwe, Peter Andrew Lapken Namathanga, commended authorities in Harare for their seamless transit support during the repatriation of thousands of Malawian nationals fleeing xenophobic attacks in South Africa. Speaking at a farewell event organized by Zimbabwe's Foreign Affairs and International Trade minister Amon Murwira, Namathanga highlighted the logistical and humanitarian assistance provided to the Malawian returnees as top-class. Malawi's department of disaster management confirmed that over 38,000 citizens were repatriated from South Africa between June 7 and July 8, 2026. Most of these returnees passed through the Beitbridge Border Post, making Zimbabwe a crucial land corridor for the exodus. Murwira stated that Zimbabwe would continue to offer humanitarian assistance to the returnees, reinforcing the bilateral relations between the two countries, which share a long history, culture, and people-to-people connections.

Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe has partnered with the Pristine Victoria Falls Society PVFS, pledging US$30,000 over three years to support conservation and cleanliness initiatives in Victoria Falls. The agreement will provide PVFS with US$10,000 annually from 2026 to 2028, enabling the organization to advance its goal of making Victoria Falls the cleanest city in Africa. PVFS, established in October 2021, focuses on sustainable waste management, green destination practices, and public health improvements in local communities. Stanbic Bank's marketing specialist for client segments, Tendai Rafemoyo, stated that their support reflects the bank's belief in sustainable development and community well-being, aiming to strengthen tourism, businesses, and communities. PVFS campaign manager, Douglas Musiringofa, emphasized the responsibility to protect Victoria Falls for future generations. The funding will help PVFS scale up awareness campaigns, community-driven cleanliness projects, and environmentally responsible tourism practices. PVFS will provide quarterly progress reports to ensure transparency and accountability in fund utilization. This partnership seeks to enhance visitor experiences, boost business confidence, and attract environmentally conscious investors, positioning Victoria Falls as a model eco-tourism destination.
Must ReadLegendary New Zealand actor Sam Neill, known for his roles in 'Jurassic Park' and 'Peaky Blinders,' passed away on Monday in Sydney, Australia, at the age of 78, his family announced. A statement posted on the actor's Instagram page, using the Māori word "whānau" for extended family, indicated that the loss was sudden and unexpected, but noted that Neill remained cancer-free. Neill had previously battled a rare and aggressive form of blood cancer, revealing in April that he was cancer-free. The family expressed gratitude to the staff at St Vincent’s Private Hospital. Neill's career spanned five decades, including the Oscar-winning film 'The Piano,' but he is most recognized for playing Dr. Alan Grant in Steven Spielberg’s 'Jurassic Park.' Born in Northern Ireland, Neill immigrated to New Zealand at age 7 and was awarded the Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 1991 and a knighthood from New Zealand in 2022. Outside of Hollywood, Neill lived on his New Zealand farm, where he named animals after Hollywood icons. He was also an environmental activist and established his organic winery, Two Paddocks, in 1993. In 2023, Neill revealed his diagnosis with angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma and underwent chemotherapy, during which he wrote his memoir 'Did I Ever Tell You This?' in 2022. In a 2024 interview, he stated he was not afraid of dying but would find it "very irritating" due to unfulfilled aspirations. He is survived by his four children and several grandchildren.

A Zimbabwean tech startup has introduced a new digital loadboard designed to streamline road freight logistics across southern Africa. This development aims to enhance efficiency within the region's transportation sector.

Zimbabwe's new reality television program, Brother In House Zimbabwe, is set to officially launch on Friday at a Harare hotel. The show will feature 33 contestants who will enter a purpose-built house for a three-month competition. This launch marks the debut of a locally produced 24-hour reality television show, which organizers state is designed to celebrate Zimbabwean talent, culture, and diversity, while also expanding opportunities within the country's creative sector. The housemates, selected from nationwide auditions, will be unveiled to the public, media, sponsors, and invited guests before moving into the Brother In House Zimbabwe House. Produced by Intelligent Excellence Recognition IER, the program will involve contestants competing in challenges that test leadership, teamwork, resilience, and character. Housemates will also navigate alliances, personal relationships, and weekly nominations, with viewers determining evictions through public voting. Organizers noted the program has already generated significant public interest. Beyond entertainment, the production aims to promote local talent, create opportunities for emerging creatives, stimulate Zimbabwe's creative economy, and showcase the nation's cultural diversity. The program will be broadcast across digital platforms, offering interactive audience engagement and public voting. Further details on the competition format, broadcast schedule, voting procedures, and sponsorship opportunities will be announced dur
Must ReadZimbabwe is reviewing its bilateral air service agreements with other African nations to attract more airlines and boost trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area AfCFTA. This policy shift, announced by Transport and Infrastructural Development minister Felix Mhona, aligns with the continent-wide push for the Single African Air Transport Market SAATM, which aims to create a single aviation market by removing restrictions on competition among African carriers. The reforms signal Zimbabwe's move from tightly controlled bilateral agreements to a more open market, allowing airlines to expand routes and increase frequencies. Mhona emphasized the need to dismantle barriers such as excessive protectionism and market access restrictions. Zimbabwe is ensuring its agreements comply with the Yamoussoukro Decision, an African Union framework for liberalizing air transport. Officials believe these reforms will make Zimbabwe a more attractive destination and strengthen its position as a regional aviation hub. This policy overhaul follows significant public investment in aviation infrastructure, including the expansion of Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, Victoria Falls International Airport, and Joshua Nkomo International Airport. The expansion of Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport increased its annual passenger handling capacity from two million to 6.5 million. By liberalizing market access, Zimbabwe aims to improve commercial returns on these investments and

Zimbabwe has commissioned a specialized honey testing laboratory to enhance its export competitiveness. In other news, Caledonia Mining received notification from BlackRock regarding an increased interest in the company. ART operations were impacted by power outages and raw material shortages, with exports and paper division volumes declining by 6% and 26% respectively in the third quarter to June 2022. The Bulawayo council warned of a 10-day water supply disruption, and the High Court blocked an illegal office park development in Borrowdale Estate. Harare reportedly lost over US$1 million in suspicious break-ins. Additionally, Zimbabwe plans to translocate zebras, giraffes, and hyenas to Equatorial Guinea.

Thousands of Japanese kei cars, including models like the Suzuki Wagon R and Nissan Dayz, are increasingly common in Zimbabwean cities such as Harare, Bulawayo, and Mutare. These ultra-compact vehicles, priced between US$6,500 and US$8,500, are favored by budget-conscious commuters, young families, and e-hailing drivers due to their exceptional fuel efficiency, often exceeding 20 kilometers per liter. For many, these cars offer an essential economic lifeline in a turbulent economy with fluctuating fuel prices. For example, one commuter noted a significant reduction in weekly fuel expenses after switching to a Suzuki Wagon R. However, a debate has emerged among motorists and road safety experts regarding the safety implications of these vehicles. Kei cars are designed under Japanese domestic regulations for low-speed urban commuting, featuring thin body panels, minimal crumple zones, and lightweight structural frames. Automotive safety analyst Michael Chideme warns that these vehicles offer little protection in collisions with larger vehicles on Zimbabwean highways, potentially leading to fatal outcomes. Older or base-model imports often lack modern safety features like Electronic Stability Control and advanced traction control, making them prone to rollovers due to their high center of gravity and short wheelbase. Opponents argue that spending an additional US$1,500 to US$2,000 for a sturdier used hatchback or sedan, such as a Toyota Vitz or Honda Fit, offers a safer investme

Zimbabwe is planning to translocate zebras, giraffes, and hyenas to Equatorial Guinea. In other news, fuel prices have marginally decreased, and Old Mutual is returning to Zimbabwe's capital markets via VFEX after a six-year suspension. Harare has reportedly lost over US$1 million in suspicious break-ins. ZMX is seeing rising confidence with trades reaching US$1.28 million. BlackRock, a US-based investment manager, has scaled up its interest in Caledonia Mining, notifying the company of crossing a reporting threshold. Political tensions at grasslands plots have led to violent attacks and forced evictions. Power outages and raw material shortages have impacted ART operations, with exports and paper divisions seeing volume declines of 6% and 26% respectively in the third quarter to June 2022. Zimbabwe has also commissioned a specialized honey testing laboratory to boost export competitiveness.
Must ReadOld Mutual has re-entered Zimbabwe's capital markets by listing on the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange VFEX following a six-year suspension. This move is part of a broader set of economic activities in Zimbabwe, which includes the Zimbabwe Mercantile Exchange ZMX seeing increased confidence with trades reaching US$1.28 million. Other business news indicates that ART operations have been affected by power outages and raw material shortages, leading to a decline in export and paper division volumes by 6% and 26% respectively in the third quarter to June 2022. Additionally, US-based BlackRock has increased its interest in Caledonia Mining, notifying the company of crossing a reporting threshold.

Zimbabwe is actively pursuing membership in Africa's Open Skies initiative, aiming to enhance its tourism sector. This move is part of a broader effort to boost the country's economic prospects. Other recent developments in Zimbabwe include plans to translocate zebras, giraffes, and hyenas to Equatorial Guinea, a marginal decrease in fuel prices, and the Zimbabwe Mercantile Exchange ZMX reporting rising confidence with trades reaching US$1.28 million. Additionally, US-based BlackRock has increased its interest in Caledonia Mining, notifying the company of crossing a reporting threshold. The country also commissioned a specialized honey testing laboratory to improve export competitiveness.

The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions ZCTU has suspended its secretary-general, Tirivanhu Marimo, due to allegations of misconduct. ZCTU president Florence Taruvinga announced the suspension in a statement on Friday, confirming that Marimo has been relieved of all official duties. Kudakwashe Munengiwa will serve as acting secretary-general until further notice. Marimo was elected to the position in 2025, succeeding Japhet Moyo.

Zimbabwe has commissioned a specialized honey testing laboratory with the aim of enhancing the competitiveness of its honey exports. This initiative is expected to support the country's agricultural sector and improve its position in the global market for honey products.

Air Zimbabwe is set to resume its flights between Harare and London this month. This development comes amidst other news from Zimbabwe, including BlackRock scaling up its interest in Caledonia Mining, and the commissioning of a specialized honey testing laboratory aimed at boosting export competitiveness. Additionally, a Zimbabwean reality show has gained regional backing and is looking towards a global presence.