Kanyemba Clinic upgrade boosts outbreak readiness

Source: Kanyemba Clinic upgrade boosts outbreak readiness – herald Fungai Lupande-Mashonaland Central Bureau GOVERNMENT is upgrading Chapoto Clinic in Kanyemba into a rural hospital to improve healthcare services in the remote border district while strengthening Zimbabwe’s preparedness against cross-border disease outbreaks, including Ebola. The facility, located near Zimbabwe’s borders with Zambia and Mozambique and serving […]

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Source: Kanyemba Clinic upgrade boosts outbreak readiness – herald

Fungai Lupande-Mashonaland Central Bureau

GOVERNMENT is upgrading Chapoto Clinic in Kanyemba into a rural hospital to improve healthcare services in the remote border district while strengthening Zimbabwe’s preparedness against cross-border disease outbreaks, including Ebola.

The facility, located near Zimbabwe’s borders with Zambia and Mozambique and serving a region that receives travellers from across the sub-region, has been earmarked for expansion to improve access to specialist healthcare and enhance the country’s capacity to detect, isolate and respond to infectious diseases entering through border communities.

Mashonaland Central Provincial Medical Director Dr Clemence Tshuma revealed the plans during a tour of the facility by the Special Adviser to the President on Monitoring and Implementation of Government Programmes and Projects, Dr Joram Gumbo, last week.

Dr Tshuma said plans to transform Chapoto Clinic into a fully fledged rural hospital date back to 2019, although progress had initially been delayed by funding constraints.

“Initially, this clinic was supposed to be upgraded to a rural hospital. That was in 2019, but unfortunately the funds allocated for the project did not come through,” he said.

Despite the financial setbacks, the province has continued preparing for the expansion by securing additional land through special planning approval, creating sufficient space for the future hospital.

“The space for the clinic has been extended, so we now have that capacity for expansion,” he said.

As part of the preparations, the Ministry of Health and Child Care used funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to construct a pharmacy at the facility.

“We prioritised this facility because we were planning for it to become a hospital. We have already constructed a pharmacy in preparation for the upgrade, but unfortunately the rest of the budget has not come,” said Dr Tshuma.

The planned hospital is expected to significantly improve access to healthcare for communities in Kanyemba, many of whom currently travel long distances to access advanced medical services.

It will also strengthen disease surveillance and emergency response in one of Zimbabwe’s key border districts, which is vulnerable to the importation of infectious diseases through cross-border movement.

Dr Tshuma said the province had already designated Chapoto Clinic and Mvurwi Hospital as isolation and treatment centres should an Ebola outbreak occur.

“We have designated two health facilities to handle an outbreak. This is one of them and the other is Mvurwi Hospital. Before we have cases, we are already prepared,” he said.

He said health workers had undergone specialised training in infection prevention and control, while medicines, medical supplies and personal protective equipment had been stockpiled to improve outbreak preparedness.

However, he noted that activating the designated Ebola treatment centres would require the temporary suspension of normal healthcare services at those facilities.

“If we have cases in these two facilities, they will stop functioning as they are now. They will stop seeing general cases, meaning we have to find alternative places for patients who normally come here,” he said.

The province has also strengthened health surveillance at Kanyemba Border Post by deploying environmental health officers and increasing community-based disease monitoring.

However, Dr Tshuma said several critical gaps remain, including inadequate accommodation for health personnel stationed at the border post, limited office space, shortages of thermal screening equipment and unreliable water supplies.

“Because the officers commute from here to the border post, it is difficult for them to operate effectively. We have allocated them a vehicle to assist them, although the steepness of the road remains a challenge,” he said.

He said the province required at least four non-contact thermal screening cameras, each costing approximately US$4 000, to strengthen disease surveillance at border entry points.

“We need cameras that can take temperatures without physical contact. They are expensive, and we currently do not have funding for them,” he said.

A reliable water supply also remains a major challenge.

Authorities have identified a site for a borehole and hope the Presidential Borehole Scheme will support the project.

“For this clinic to properly handle Ebola cases, we need to ensure a reliable water supply. We hope the Presidential Borehole Scheme will assist us because water is also a challenge for general services,” he said.

Dr Tshuma also highlighted persistent challenges with emergency patient referrals, saying the absence of a dedicated ambulance continues to hamper transfers to Chitsungo Hospital.

“Our biggest challenge is that we do not have an ambulance to transfer patients to Chitsungo. Some patients end up seeking treatment in Zambia because of that,” he said.

He added that improving ambulance services and strengthening blood supply systems would significantly enhance emergency healthcare delivery in the district.

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Bishop gets 10 years over exorcism death

Source: Bishop gets 10 years over exorcism death – herald Yeukai Karengezeka-Chisepo-Court Correspondent A Damasko Zion Christian Church bishop has been jailed for 10 years after the Bulawayo High Court convicted him of culpable homicide following the death of a female congregant after a prolonged assault during a purported exorcism ritual. Justice Ngoni Nduna convicted […]

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Source: Bishop gets 10 years over exorcism death – herald

Yeukai Karengezeka-Chisepo-Court Correspondent

A Damasko Zion Christian Church bishop has been jailed for 10 years after the Bulawayo High Court convicted him of culpable homicide following the death of a female congregant after a prolonged assault during a purported exorcism ritual.

Justice Ngoni Nduna convicted Chrispen Gomore of culpable homicide after acquitting him of murder, ruling that the State had failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt that he intended to kill the deceased.

Passing sentence, Justice Nduna condemned the abuse of religious authority, saying violence committed under the guise of spiritual discipline had no place in society.

“The assault perpetrated upon the deceased persisted intermittently from morning until late at night, notwithstanding her screams and the pleas made by her husband. Your conduct displayed a gross disregard for human life and dignity.

“This court cannot ignore the increasing prevalence of violence perpetrated under the guise of spiritual discipline or religious authority. Human life is sacred and enjoys constitutional protection.”

He said the courts were duty-bound to protect vulnerable persons and to send a strong message that religious standing or spiritual authority could never serve as a shield for criminal conduct.

“The degree of negligence exhibited in this matter borders on recklessness of the highest order. A non-custodial sentence would trivialise the gravity of the offence, undermine public confidence in the administration of justice and fail to adequately reflect society’s denunciation of the conduct in question.”

Justice Nduna said that although Gomore was the breadwinner for a large family, only a custodial sentence was appropriate.

He was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

The court heard that on March 6, 2023, the deceased and her husband, Fortunate Mukwayi, travelled to the church shrine seeking prayers.

Following a disagreement with another pastor, the couple was accused of being mentally disturbed. They were shackled with chains, tied to a tree and left restrained overnight.

The following morning, they were taken to the Limpopo River for baptism and what church members described as an exorcism ritual.

After returning to the shrine, Gomore entered a room carrying a leather whip and repeatedly assaulted the couple from around 9am until late at night.

Mukwayi testified that the bishop indiscriminately whipped both of them all over their bodies while ignoring their cries for mercy.

He told the court that he repeatedly tried to shield his wife and pleaded with Gomore to stop the assault, but the beatings continued until both victims lost consciousness.

The couple’s daughter, Samantha, witnessed part of the assault and also testified during the trial.

Police arrived at the shrine the following day and found the woman dead.

A post-mortem established that she died from encephalic contusion (localised injury to the brain tissue), cranial trauma and injuries sustained during the assault.

In his judgment, Justice Nduna noted that while eyewitnesses only described the use of a leather whip, the post-mortem revealed blunt-force head injuries, creating uncertainty about how the fatal cranial injuries had been inflicted.

However, the judge ruled that the prolonged assault constituted gross negligence, making Gomore criminally liable for the woman’s death.

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ZiMA hails Prof Chinyanga’s hero status, legacy

Source: ZiMA hails Prof Chinyanga’s hero status, legacy – herald George Maponga-Masvingo Bureau THE Zimbabwe Medical Association has joined other players in the health sector in applauding President Mnangagwa and the Second Republic for conferring national hero status on revered anaesthesiologist Professor Herbert Mapfumo Chinyanga. Prof Chinyanga died in South Africa on July 2. He […]

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Source: ZiMA hails Prof Chinyanga’s hero status, legacy – herald

George Maponga-Masvingo Bureau

THE Zimbabwe Medical Association has joined other players in the health sector in applauding President Mnangagwa and the Second Republic for conferring national hero status on revered anaesthesiologist Professor Herbert Mapfumo Chinyanga.

Prof Chinyanga died in South Africa on July 2.

He was 87.

His remains will be cremated in accordance with his wishes.

The Zimbabwe Medical Association said the late physician was deserving of the country’s highest honour because of his immense contribution to Zimbabwe’s healthcare and medical landscape.

The association’s president, Dr Kudzai Masinire, yesterday said the recognition accorded to Prof Chinyanga demonstrated that the contribution of health workers to nation-building was being acknowledged.

“On behalf of doctors across Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Medical Association (ZiMA), we extend our deepest gratitude to the Government of the Republic of Zimbabwe and to His Excellency, President Dr E.D. Mnangagwa, for according national hero status to the late Professor Herbert Mapfumo Chinyanga,” he said.

“This honour is a fitting tribute to a man whose life was defined by service, sacrifice and an unwavering commitment to the health and dignity of the people of Zimbabwe.

“A pioneer, trailblazer, luminary and doyen of Zimbabwean medicine.”

Dr Masinire said the honour bestowed on Prof Chinyanga would inspire present and future generations of healthcare workers to continue serving the nation with dedication and professionalism.

“Thank you, Your Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr E.D. Mnangagwa, for recognising the contribution of health workers to the development of our nation,” said Dr Masinire.

“We pledge to honour Prof Chinyanga’s legacy by upholding the standards he set, by mentoring the next generation, and by continuing to serve the people of Zimbabwe with the same dedication he demonstrated.”

Dr Masinire said Prof Chinyanga exemplified service, sacrifice and an unwavering commitment to the development of the country’s health sector after independence.

He described the late national hero as one of the pioneers of modern healthcare in Zimbabwe who helped shape generations of medical practitioners.

“Prof Chinyanga was not just a doctor. He was a pioneer who helped lay the foundation of modern healthcare in independent Zimbabwe.

“As one of the first black Zimbabwean specialists to rise to prominence after independence, Prof Chinyanga broke barriers in hospital leadership and specialist training. He mentored generations of doctors and nurses who now serve in every corner of the country and across the world,” he said.

Dr Masinire said Prof Chinyanga was instrumental in shaping postgraduate medical training and advancing clinical standards and the provision of safe anaesthesia in central and district hospitals.

“His wards were classrooms and his patients were his greatest textbooks. Many of today’s consultants, specialists and professors walked the corridors with him,” he said.

According to Dr Masinire, Prof Chinyanga served with distinction in public hospitals, often under difficult conditions, while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and patient care. He is said to have led by example, combining clinical excellence with compassion, and advocating ethical, patient-centred care at all times.

“His clinical wisdom and commitment to ethical healthcare helped build the foundation of our national health system,” he said.

Dr Masinire said Prof Chinyanga was widely respected within the medical fraternity and frequently provided guidance on matters of policy, ethics and professional conduct. As an elder and reference point for the medical fraternity, Prof Chinyanga’s counsel was sought on matters of policy, ethics and professional conduct. “He embodied the ideals of ZiMA: integrity, service and excellence. His name became synonymous with dignity in medicine. He indeed was a towering giant.”

“Beyond his technical brilliance, Prof Chinyanga was a builder of institutions and people. He believed that a strong health system begins with strong, values-driven doctors.”

Dr Masinire said the conferment of national hero status on Prof Chinyanga recognised not only his achievements but also the broader contribution of healthcare workers to national development.

He added that the conferment of hero status on one of their own has given young doctors a “national hero to look up to”, adding that President Mnangagwa had reminded the nation that service to humanity is the highest form of patriotism.

“We thank you for recognising the contribution of healthcare workers to the development of our nation,” said Dr Masinire.

Prof Chinyanga is widely credited with helping lay the foundation for anaesthesia training in Zimbabwe and mentoring generations of doctors who continue to serve both locally and abroad.

He received ZiMA’s highest award for medical excellence in 2003.

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Cabinet approves key pacts, steps up returnee support

Source: Cabinet approves key pacts, steps up returnee support – herald We  publish here the 23rd post Cabinet media briefing presented by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Zhemu Soda, in Harare yesterday. Cabinet received an update report on the repatriation and reintegration of Zimbabwean nationals from the Republic of South Africa, which was presented […]

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Source: Cabinet approves key pacts, steps up returnee support – herald

We  publish here the 23rd post Cabinet media briefing presented by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Zhemu Soda, in Harare yesterday.

Cabinet received an update report on the repatriation and reintegration of Zimbabwean nationals from the Republic of South Africa, which was presented by the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable Daniel Garwe, as the Chairperson of the Cabinet Committee on Environment, Emergency Preparedness, Disaster Prevention and Management.

The nation is being informed that through collaborative efforts, the Inter-Ministerial Committee and Development Partners facilitated the return of 99 418 citizens between May 28 and July 10, 2026. More than 70 percent of the returnees are women and children. Government noted that the number of Zimbabwean nationals requiring repatriation and reintegration assistance has continued to increase, and measures have been put in place to meet the growing demand.

The timely efforts of Her Excellency the First Lady, Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa are noted, in particular her generous donation to the Beitbridge Repatriation Centre which she toured on July 7th, 2026. The donation included 30 tonnes of rice, 20 tonnes of mealie-meal, more than 5 000 track suits, 1 500 diapers and 1 500 units of sanitary wear material for women, which assisted greatly in the repatriation and reintegration initiatives underway. Government expresses appreciation for all citizens efforts to ensure seamless integration of returnees.

The nation is being further informed that other nationals from Malawi and Zambia arriving at Beitbridge are being assisted through their respective Embassies, with appropriate arrangements being put in place for assistance to be rendered to any other nationals facing challenges as they transit to their countries of origin.

Government is pleased to note that the Border Management Committee, incorporating the Department of Immigration, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, the Vehicle Inspection Department and Zimbabwe Borders has intensified measures to facilitate efficient immigration processes of all returnees, including through clearing of buses and trucks transporting returnees.

The Ministry of Health and Child Care, with its partners Medicines Sans Frontiers and the Higher Life Foundation is providing essential health care, with over 191 000 patients having been attended to and 870 children screened for malnutrition, while 15 cases of diarrhoea have been identified and treated.

Government assures the nation that efforts to render assistance to returning nationals will continue in order to ensure their smooth reintegration.

Meanwhile, the security services will continue to monitor illegal entries at undesignated points, especially in Beitbridge and Plumtree.

2.0 POSTAL AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS SECTOR PERFORMANCE REPORT: FIRST QUARTER 2026

Cabinet noted the Postal and Telecommunications Sector Performance Report for the First Quarter of 2026, which was presented by the Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Honourable Tatenda Mavetera.

The report, which focused on the performance of the Postal and Telecommunications sector during the quarter, highlighted key trends within the sector, growth prospects, emerging challenges and strategic interventions being implemented.

Information, communication, technologies and telecommunications remain central to the national digital transformation agenda under National development Strategy 2 (NDS2), the Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan, the National ICT Policy, and the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2026-2030).

Regarding subscriptions and market penetration during the First Quarter, the sector recorded a 2,99 percent increase in active mobile subscriptions and a 1,5 percent increase in mobile penetration across all mobile platforms.

Zimbabwe continued to record significant internet/data traffic increase with a remarkable 57,28 percent, driven by accelerated LTE and 5G infrastructure deployment, increased smartphone adoption and use of modern applications including, TikTok, Instagram and Netflix.

The sector also reported trends including the following:

i. infrastructure modernisation and expansion, with an additional 13 new 5G base stations deployed, bringing the total to 379 bases, together with 161 LTE (Long Term Evolution), 85 3G and 68 2G new base stations. Government commends the efforts by all players in the sector, which are accelerating progress.

ii. gradual transition to data-centric services, while the fixed telephone line segment maintained a steady performance;

iii. The international connectivity band-width capacity increased by 4,03 percent to 1 756  770 Mbps;

iv. fiber network expansion from 4 046 km to a remarkable 8 500 km coverage. The total fibre backbone expanded by 33,83 percent, surpassing 19 000km;

v. strong growth in LEO ( Low Earth Orbit) subscriptions driven by Starlink is closing the connectivity gap in underserved and remote areas through the Presidential Internet Scheme;

vi. Postal and Courier Services has recorded a volume recovery during the Quarter, while continuing to face financial sustainability challenges;

vii. the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy 2026 -2030 is creating immediate and growing demand for high-capacity, low-latency connectivity; and

viii. the Postal and Telecommunications (Amendment) Bill 2025 is progressing through Parliamentary processes. The Bill is expected to strengthen the regulatory framework within the sector which is characterized by rapid technological and market evolution.

3.0 PROPOSED ZIMBABWE AFRICAN PEER REVIEW MECHANISM (APRM) NATIONAL PROGRAMME OF ACTION, AND PREPARATIONS FOR THE OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF THE APRM IN ZIMBABWE

Cabinet received and approved the memorandum on the Zimbabwe African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) National Programme of Action, and Preparations for the Official Launch of The APRM in Zimbabwe which was presented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Honourable Professor Amon Murwira, as he outlined the Development and implementation of the National Programme of Action.

His Excellency,  President Mnangagwa presented the Review Report on “Economic Governance and Management” at the 35th Ordinary Session of the APRM Forum.

The report identified practices for emulation by member States including: Transformative Leadership; Performance Contracting; Land Reform; Village Business Units under Rural development 8.0 Model; Innovation under Heritage Based Education 5.0; and Monetary Policy Revitalisation centred on the “Back -to-Basics” Approach.

Preparations are progressing well for the inaugural official launch of the APRM in Zimbabwe by His Excellency, Dr Mnangagwa on July 16, 2026.

This historic occasion will also be graced by His Excellency, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda and Chairperson of the African Peer Review Forum of Heads of State and Government, who shall be represented by Her Excellency, Major (Rtd) Jesssica Rose Epel Alupo, Vice President of the Republic of Uganda.

4.0 RADIATION PROTECTION (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2026

Cabinet considered and approved the Radiation Protection (Amendment) Bill, 2026 as presented by the Chairperson of the Cabinet Committee on Legislation and Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Honourable Ziyambi Ziyambi.

The amendment of the Bill seeks to modernise the regulatory framework for radiation protection, safety and security in Zimbabwe. The Bill also seeks to address emerging technological advancements in both ionising and non-ionising radiation; to enhance national nuclear security, to establish financial sustainability mechanisms; and to align Zimbabwe with its international commitments under the International Atomic Energy Agency and the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement.

5.0. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE AND THE REPUBLIC OF BELARUS CONCERNING COOPERATION IN THE FIELD OF ARTS AND CULTURE

Cabinet considered and approved the Memorandum of Understanding between the Republic of Zimbabwe and the Republic of Belarus concerning Cooperation in the Field of Arts and Culture which was presented by the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Honourable Ziyambi Ziyambi, as the chairperson of the Cabinet Committee on Legislation.

The MoU seeks to strengthen cooperation in areas including joint exhibitions, seminars, workshops, exchange of experts on museums, folklore and films, protection and restoration of historical and cultural heritage festivals, visual arts traditional handicraft, music and dances.

6.0 MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE AND THE STATE OF QATAR ON COOPERATION IN THE FIELD OF YOUTH

Cabinet considered and approved the Memorandum of Understanding between the Republic of Zimbabwe and the State of Qatar on Cooperation in the Field of Youth, as presented by the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Honourable Ziyambi Ziyambi.

The Memorandum will establish a framework for cooperation in the field of youth programmes including youth entrepreneurship, development of national youth policies, exchange of experiences, and related research, among others.

7.0 MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE AND THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA CONCERNING COOPERATION IN THE FIELD OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Cabinet considered and approved the Memorandum of Understanding between the Republic of Zimbabwe and the Republic of South Africa concerning Cooperation in the Field of Higher Education and Training, as presented by the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Honourable Ziyambi Ziyambi.

The Memorandum seeks to establish a legal framework for bilateral cooperation in the field of Higher Education and Training.

It will also broaden access to quality education through exchange programmes, joint research initiatives and fostering of institutional partnerships as well as mutual recognition of qualifications.

8.0 MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE AND THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA ON COOPERATION IN THE FIELD OF ARTS, CULTURE AND HERITAGE

Cabinet considered and approved the Memorandum of Understanding between the Republic of Zimbabwe and the Republic of South Africa on Cooperation in the Field of Arts, Culture and Heritage as presented by the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Honourable Ziyambi Ziyambi.

The Memorandum seeks to promote, develop and increase cooperation in the field of arts, culture and heritage in accordance with the Parties’ relevant domestic laws.

The main areas of cooperation include conservation and restoration of archival documents; collaboration between the national archives and the national museums of each country; the prevention of cross-border trafficking; exchange of cultural property and cooperation on the Museum of African Liberation project located in Zimbabwe, including but not limited to the provision of historical artifacts from the Republic of South Africa’s liberation struggle for display in the Museum, and other related areas of mutual interest.

9.0 PROPOSED CO-HOSTING OF THE 2027 GLOBAL AFRICA WOMEN’s SUSTAINABLITY CONFERENCE: ZIMBABWE EDITION: VICTORIA FALLS

Cabinet considered and approved the Co-Hosting of the 2027 Global Africa Women’s Sustainability Conference: Zimbabwe Edition in Victoria Falls as presented by the Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Honourable Senator Monica Mutsvangwa.

The Global Africa Women’s Sustainability Conference is hosted annually by ImpactHer, a Non-Governmental Organisation that promotes women empowerment globally.

The Zimbabwe Edition is designed to position the country and the Southern African region as a powerhouse for women-led sustainable enterprises, green innovation and cross-regional trade.

The Conference serves as a continental convening platform connecting the most dynamic voices in policy, investment and entrepreneurship to advance a shared vision whereby women are not just participants in the economy, but its architects.

The Conference provides an opportunity to showcase Zimbabwe’s entrepreneurial talent, cultural richness, tourism assets, and investment potential to a highly influential continental and global audience.

The Zimbabwe Edition will be held in Victoria Falls in 2027 under the theme “Reimagine, Reshape Rise: Women as Vanguards of Global Sustainable Future.”

10.0 PREPARATIONS FOR HOSTING THE 25TH COMESA HEADS OF STATE AND GOVERNMENT SUMMIT: 22 OCTOBER, 2026: HARARE

Cabinet considered and approved the Hosting of the 25th Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Heads of State and Government Summit on October 22, 2026 as presented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Honourable Professor Amon Murwira.

The objective of the Summit is to advance the principles of industrialisation, investment and regional economic integration.

The Summit will run under the theme “One Market One Future: Advancing Inclusive Industrialisation, Investment and Regional Integration in COMESA,” and will be preceded by the COMESA Business Forum on October 20, 2026, followed by the Meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs on 21 October 2026.

11.0  PROPOSED HOSTING OF THE YOUTH CONNEKT AFRICA SUMMIT 2027

Cabinet considered and approved the bid for Zimbabwe to Host the Youth Connekt Africa Summit in 2027.

Youth Connekt Africa is a continental platform established to connect young people to economic opportunities, skills development, entrepreneurship, innovation, financial inclusion, mentorship and policy                                                                                 dialogue.

The Summit provides a platform for showcasing innovation, sharing best practices, fostering partnerships and advancing youth development agendas.

The Summit will enhance Zimbabwe’s international image and strengthen diplomatic and development cooperation with African countries and development partners.

I THANK YOU!

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Surge in internet, data traffic

Source: Surge in internet, data traffic – herald Debra Matabvu-Senior Reporter MODERNISATION of telecommunications infrastructure and expansion of networks across Zimbabwe have driven significant growth in internet and data traffic during the first quarter of this year, Cabinet has noted. According to the Postal and Telecommunications Sector Performance Report for the first quarter, presented to […]

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Source: Surge in internet, data traffic – herald

Debra Matabvu-Senior Reporter

MODERNISATION of telecommunications infrastructure and expansion of networks across Zimbabwe have driven significant growth in internet and data traffic during the first quarter of this year, Cabinet has noted.

According to the Postal and Telecommunications Sector Performance Report for the first quarter, presented to Cabinet yesterday, internet and data traffic increased by 57,28 percent, largely driven by accelerated long-term evolution (LTE) and 5G infrastructure deployment along with increased smartphone ownership and use.

There was a 2,99 percent increase in active mobile subscriptions and a 1,5 percent rise in mobile penetration.

The report noted that 13 new 5G base stations were deployed during the quarter, bringing the national total to 379.

Speaking after the Cabinet meeting yesterday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda said the information and communication technologies and telecommunications sector remained central to Zimbabwe’s digital transformation agenda under the National Development Strategy 2, the Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan, the National ICT Policy and the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2026-2030).

“Zimbabwe continued to record significant internet and data traffic increase with a remarkable 57,28 percent, driven by accelerated LTE and 5G infrastructure deployment, increased smartphone adoption and use of modern applications including TikTok, Instagram and Netflix,” said the Minister.

“The sector also reported trends including the following: infrastructure modernisation and expansion, with an additional 13 new 5G base stations deployed, bringing the total to 379 bases, together with 161 LTE (Long Term Evolution), 85 3G and 68 2G new base stations.”

Minister Soda commended all players in the sector for accelerating progress and helping to close the connectivity gap, particularly in underserved areas.

He said the country’s fibre network had expanded significantly during the quarter under review.

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