Zim News Blog -NEWS NETWORK

Source: ‘Let’s take stock, correct mistakes if need be’ . . . Youths anchor development trajectory: President – herald

Fungi Kwaramba

National Editor

ZIMBABWE should take stock of its progress, correct mistakes where there is need, as it journeys towards Vision 2030 to become an upper-middle-class economy riding on vibrant innovations, especially from the youth, President Mnangagwa has said.

Speaking in Harare on Monday, the President reflected on the progress Zimbabwe has made on many fronts, including infrastructure development, improvements in the health sector and his belief in the country’s development trajectory anchored by an energetic youth who share the same vision with him.

“If you are a President, you need a country that is moving forward, always innovating, which is critically important. I think it’s very important to say this year we are here, next year we are there and so on,” he said.

“You make some progress, it’s even necessary that you continuously move and by so doing then you don’t always do the same thing, you make mistakes, you correct yourself, but things must continue going on”.

In a walkabout on the State House grounds before he sat down for an interview with ZBCtv on Zimbabwe’s assumption of the chairmanship of COMESA in October, the President said he was happy as a leader to see young people participate in the economic development of the country.

“Any leader who sees the younger generation participate in the development of their country should be happy. We are lucky in Zimbabwe; we have a very vibrant young generation which is eager to identify itself with the development of the country and the party (ZANU PF),” he said.

“I am happy with that. It would be a disappointment if, as a country and you are the leader and the youth are going elsewhere, but fortunately in Zimbabwe we are moving in the same direction”.

The Second Republic continues to record major milestones across infrastructure, agriculture, mining and youth development, as the Government accelerates its drive towards an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.

“I am happy that our people are very innovative, creating new structures that are very modern and attractive,” President Mnangagwa said in response to a question on infrastructure development.

On the infrastructure front, thousands of high-impact projects have been completed nationwide, including major highway upgrades, strategic dam construction and the expansion of Hwange Power Station Units 7 and 8, which have tremendously bolstered the national energy grid.

In agriculture, food security has been strengthened through climate-proofed initiatives such as the Pfumvudza/Intwasa programme, complemented by increased irrigation schemes and farm mechanisation, insulating rural communities from weather shocks while boosting productivity.

That aside, the mining sector has transformed, with a renewed focus on local beneficiation of minerals, particularly lithium and iron ore.

This value-addition drive ensures that Zimbabwe retains greater economic returns from its natural resources while stimulating downstream industrial growth.

Central to the Second Republic’s vision is the empowerment of the nation’s youth and through the Heritage-Based Education 5.0 model, the learning system has shifted from producing job-seekers to nurturing graduates capable of creating goods, services and industrial solutions.

Innovation hubs at universities are accelerating this shift, providing young researchers with platforms to commercialise their ideas.

Financial empowerment programmes, including the Presidential Youth Empowerment Scheme, are providing revolving funds, tractors and mining equipment to young entrepreneurs.

Concurrently, digital skills training initiatives are equipping millions of young Zimbabweans with expertise in coding, software engineering and data science, positioning them to thrive in the global digital economy.

These interventions collectively underline the Government’s unwavering commitment to inclusive growth, leaving no place and no one behind as the nation marches towards Vision 2030.

Asked about the progress, President Mnangagwa said he is a reflection of the people and aspirations of Zimbabweans.

“At the end of the day, it’s not the President, it’s the people, the President reflects the people, not the people reflecting the President, because it’s from the people that the President comes from, so the  President is a reflection of the people,” he said.

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Source: Tackle medical cartels, red tape: HE – herald

Zvamaida Murwira

Senior Reporter

PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has directed the Ministry of Health and Child Care to remove all bureaucratic obstacles in the importation and procurement of medical care facilities and services as part of a deliberate move to modernise and upgrade health infrastructure.

By streamlining the acquisition of medical equipment and pharmaceuticals, the Government seeks to improve service delivery and patient care.

The directive reinforces the Second Republic’s commitment to Vision 2030, with the ministry now expected to implement the changes swiftly to ensure tangible benefits for all citizens.

Writing on his X handle, the President said the Presidential Hospital Innovation Programme was performing wonders in the health sector and would not require unnecessary impediments occasioned by unscrupulous business practices.    

His administration, the President said, would upgrade Mpilo Hospital in Bulawayo following the successful rehabilitation of Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, where he recently commissioned the newly-refurbished Adlam House and Nurses’ Home to improve living conditions for medical personnel.

“The Ministry of Health and Child Care, together with related Agencies, are strictly directed to remove all barriers to entry in the establishment of specialist healthcare facilities and services. Hatidi magate-keepers nemacartels muhealth sector vanhu vedu vachitadza kurapwa zvakanaka nemutengo uri pasi. Kwete. Ngative nehanya tikoshese hutano hwevanhu vekwedu. Let those with ears hear this stern exhortation,” said President Mnangagwa.

“Our goal remains clear: to build a resilient, world-class public health system that provides high-quality, affordable care to every citizen, leaving no place and no one behind.”

President Mnangagwa said several upgrades of health facilities, particularly at the country’s largest referral facilities like Parirenyatwa and Mpilo Hospitals, showed that the Second Republic was delivering on its promise.

“Upgrading our health sector is a top priority for the Second Republic, and we are delivering on our promise. The Presidential Hospital Renovation Programme is moving at an accelerated pace across our nation’s primary medical complexes, including the 2 800-bed Main Hospital block at the Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals in Harare and the historic Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo!” said President Mnangagwa.

“Following the successful modernisation of supporting facilities like Adlam House at Parirenyatwa—now fully equipped with solar power and clean borehole water—we are simultaneously rolling out extensive, long-overdue infrastructure upgrades at Mpilo Hospital to overhaul clinical spaces and staff residences.”

President Mnangagwa outlined the several development initiatives that have been covered throughout the country and have had an impact in transforming the health service delivery in the country.

“This nationwide, targeted phase focuses on rehabilitating critical patient wards and healthcare spaces, upgrading diagnostic and surgical equipment with 21st Century modern technologies, integrating new medical systems to support our hard-working personnel and eliminating long-standing structural and utility bottlenecks across our referral centres,” he said.

Following several Government initiatives, Mbuya Nehanda Maternity Ward at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals is now matching world-class standards after undergoing extensive refurbishment under the Presidential Hospital Renovation Programme, which is expected to improve maternal healthcare and outcomes.

A recent tour meant to monitor and evaluate facilities, led by contractor Prevail Group of Companies, showed that milestones had been covered at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, as the refurbishment had expanded the hospital’s critical care capacity.

Prevail Group Chairman Dr Paul Tungwarara said his company is determined to deliver world-class health facilities, leaving no one and no place behind.

“We are committed to delivering world-class facilities through this Presidential Hospital Renovations Programme within a very short space of time; watch the space,” said Dr Tungwarara.

The refurbishment highlights how partnerships between the Ministry of Health and Child Care and private contractors are strengthening healthcare infrastructure in line with the country’s Vision 2030 aspirations.

As a result of the Government initiatives, the upgraded facilities would enhance maternal health outcomes by providing health workers with improved infrastructure and equipment to deliver quality care.

The refurbishment has expanded theatre and high‑dependence unit capacity, equipping staff with new resources to deliver better care and improve patient outcomes.

Government has also introduced a sugar tax, where revenue generated from it on beverages and fast foods has funded the acquisition of modern linear accelerator radiotherapy machines for Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals and Mpilo Hospital.

At least US$27 million to US$30 million has been invested to upgrade oncology services at these public institutions.

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Source: Zim performs first-ever bone marrow transplant – herald

Trust Freddy

Herald Correspondent

ZIMBABWE has entered a new era in specialist healthcare after Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals successfully performed the country’s first-ever bone marrow transplant.

The historic autologous stem cell transplant was performed on 55-year-old Clifford Munemo, a multiple myeloma patient from Marondera, by a team of local specialists led by Consultant Haematologist Dr Moses Chatambudza.

The breakthrough aligns with Government’s drive to provide affordable, high-end medical care locally while cutting the burden of medical tourism.

Patients seeking bone marrow transplants abroad face bills ranging from US$23 000 to US$40 000 in India, and up to US$70 000 in South Africa.

According to Mr Munemo, while he had not yet tallied the final statement, the local bill was a small fraction of overseas charges. 

“It was nowhere near US$23 000, neither US$40 000. It was way cheaper,” Mr Munemo said, noting that PSMAS covered nearly the entire expense.

Dr Chatambudza said the unit was established to ease the suffering of families forced to seek care abroad. 

“So this is the first-ever bone marrow transplant in Zimbabwe that we decided to embark on, because we have seen that our patients are suffering, and the financial burden of going to other countries is just not sustainable,” Dr Chatambudza said.  “And of course, with Government support, we realised we need to do all of these things here in Zimbabwe.”

Mr Munemo’s medical journey began in October 2024 when severe back pain escalated rapidly as he drove from Marondera to West End Hospital. 

“I only managed to drive to West End Hospital and immediately became paralysed. I could no longer walk and was put on the wheelchair,” Mr Munemo recalled.

Diagnostic tests confirmed multiple myeloma, a cancer of the plasma cells in the bone marrow.

He was promptly referred to Dr Chatambudza at Parirenyatwa for specialist management.

Through targeted systemic therapy, Mr Munemo  recovered and was walking again by early 2025.

However, during routine follow-up in June 2026, medical evaluations revealed the cancer had become aggressive, leaving a stem cell transplant as his only definitive treatment option.

He was admitted to Parirenyatwa on August 5 to begin the process.

“I am feeling positive that I am now okay,” an emotional Mr Munemo said as he prepared for discharge. “I don’t know how to thank Dr Chatambudza and his team because even money is not enough.”

The successful execution of the complex procedure was made possible through high-tech diagnostic and blood-processing machinery donated by the National AIDS Council (NAC).

Last year, NAC handed over specialised equipment valued at nearly US$2 million to the Ministry of Health and Child Care to equip Parirenyatwa’s blood services and renal units.

The machinery includes the Cobas e402 analyzer, the ORTHO VISION Analyzer, and the state-of-the-art Spectra Optia Apheresis System, which is used to harvest stem cells directly from peripheral blood.

The renal unit is now being used for multiple purposes, including bone marrow transplant.

“The biggest challenge we faced was the funding component. But you know what? NAC came in and essentially changed the whole thing,” Dr Chatambudza said, adding that the equipment resolved the unit’s major missing link.

NAC Chief Executive Officer Dr Benard Madzima said funding specialist equipment forms part of the council’s broader mandate to integrate HIV care with non-communicable diseases and oncology services nationwide. 

“This has led to the development of the first-ever bone marrow transplant, which the specialists at Parirenyatwa Hospital have been able to provide,” Dr Madzima said.

He added that NAC is also extending similar infrastructure support to central hospitals in the southern region, including Mpilo Central Hospital and United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH).

Following extensive pre-transplant evaluations, stem cell mobilisation, and high-dose Melphalan chemotherapy to clear the diseased marrow, Mr Munemo’s stored stem cells were re-infused.

After 10 days of strict protective isolation, blood transfusions, and prophylactic care, tests confirmed that the transplanted stem cells had successfully engrafted and resumed healthy blood cell production.

Dr Chatambudza said the clinical team intends to conservatively perform about 30 transplants over the next 12 months as additional diagnostic tools — such as a CD34 enumerator flow cytometer — are fully integrated. 

“Parirenyatwa being the biggest referral hospital in the country, we have to handle referrals from all over the country… Hopefully, by 2030, we will be doing above 100 transplants,” Dr Chatambudza said.

The specialised unit will treat haematological malignancies, including acute and chronic leukaemias, lymphomas, and multiple myeloma, alongside benign conditions such as aplastic anaemia and inherited bone marrow failure syndromes.

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Source: PRISON BOSSES GRANT INMATE LEAVE TO ATTEND UZ GRADUATION CEREMONY – herald

Arron Nyamayaro

A 30-year-old inmate was granted persmission by prison authorities to attend his graduation ceremony at the University of Zimbabwe last week.

Robert Zivengwa, who is serving a 24-month sentence for unlawful entry, graduated from the UZ, five months after he was jailed.

He graduated with an honours degree in Biological Sciences, majoring in microbiology and genetics.

He wore his prison garb and graduation cap when he appeared at the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) exhibition stand at the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show in Harare yesterday.

His appearance attracted a number of visitors to the stand.

Visitors at the ZPCS stand took turns to congratulate him and they also asked him how he was able to attend his graduation ceremony while serving his sentence.

“I failed my family members and friends by engaging in criminal activities that led me to be convicted in March this year,” said Zivengwa.

“I want to thank the ZPCS rehabilitation officers for correcting my mistakes and the Commissioner General Chihobvu for according me the chance to leave the prison cells to be among the graduates.”

He added:

“I have come to know the power of knowledge and the dangers of abusing knowledge.

“I have also realised that crime does not pay.

“I am looking forward to using my knowledge to empower others and the nation at large.”

Upon completing his sentence, Zivengwa said he sees himself “joining clinical laboratories and research counsellors.”

Another inmate, Charlington Timba, 41, a motor mechanic serving a 10-year sentence for robbery, also became a centre of attraction at the stand.

He shared some of his skills with the public.

Timba was convicted in September 2022.

Earlier this week, H-Metro published the story of former Chinhoyi Prison inmate, Tatenda Mapanda, who graduated with a degree in Supply Chain Management.

The 27-year-old failed his O-Level examination and had to repeat before finally passing at Msengezi High School.

Mapanda’s journey took a difficult turn when he was convicted of theft and sentenced to two years in prison.

Despite the challenges, Mapanda remained determined to complete his studies and build a better future for himself.

In an interview with H-Metro, shortly after his graduation, Mapanda revealed that he was imprisoned while on the verge of completing his studies.

“This affected me from 2024 and made it difficult for me to finish my studies properly.

“However, through all those hardships, I gained some motivation and a strong desire to succeed,” he said.

Mapanda said his experience behind bars strengthened his determination to make something meaningful out of his life.

“The way I was living, while I was inside prison, being told when to sleep and when to wake up, those difficult times gave me the determination that I needed to do something with my life,” he said.

He said thinking about his parents, and the sacrifices they had made for his education, also motivated him to remain focused.

“I told myself that I needed to focus on my education and, if I worked hard and committed myself to studying, I could reach the point where I am today, having the opportunity to graduate.

“Today, I am now a qualified graduate in Supply Chain Management, specialising in Logistics,” he said.

He said his graduation represented far more than just an academic achievement. He said it was a symbol of how far he has come and the future he is determined to build.

“When you see me standing here today, on my graduation day, you may not fully see the happiness I feel.

“But, in my heart, considering where I came from and where I am going, I have a happiness that cannot be measured,” he said.

Mapanda said his experience was proof that setbacks do not have to be the end of the road.

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Source: Govt moves to safeguard food reserves – herald

Rumbidzayi Zinyuke

Senior Reporter

GOVERNMENT is strengthening measures to safeguard national food security ahead of the projected El Niño weather phenomenon in the 2026/27 agricultural season, with the country expected to maintain a substantial strategic grain reserve following another strong harvest.

Zimbabwe is projected to record a strategic grain reserve surplus of between 550 945 tonnes and 964 945 tonnes following a successful 2025/26 summer cropping season.

Speaking at yesterday’s post-Cabinet media briefing in Harare, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda said grain stocks held by the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) stood at 252 177 tonnes as of August 19, while deliveries during this marketing season were 126 percent higher than those from the same period last year.

“Cabinet notes with satisfaction that the increase in national maize output was driven by an increase in both productivity and hectarage, showing that initiatives under the Food Systems and Rural Transformation Strategy 2 are working as intended and targets are on course to be achieved,” he said.

The total area planted under maize increased by 8,2 percent from 1,81 million hectares in 2025 to 1,96 million hectares this year, while national production rose by 17,1 percent from 2,29 million tonnes to 2,68 million tonnes.

Minister Soda said winter wheat production was progressing well, with the planted area reaching 106 percent of the target, compared to 101 percent achieved during the same period last year.

He said barley had been planted on 7 013 hectares, while 243 850 tonnes of Irish potatoes were expected from the 9 000 hectares planted.

Tobacco production has also remained strong, with 358,4 million kilogrammes sold by August 18 at an average price of US$2,49 per kilogramme.

Minister Soda said cumulative tobacco exports reached 138,25 million kilogrammes by August 19, valued at US$791,85 million, representing a 39 percent increase in export volumes compared to the corresponding period last year.

Meanwhile, GMB had cleared all outstanding farmer payments for the 2024/25 marketing season, with mechanisms now in place to ensure timely payments for this season.

Responding to questions from journalists, Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development Minister Dr Anxious Masuka said Government remains committed to paying farmers as quickly as possible after grain deliveries, so they attend to obligations that they would have carried throughout the whole season.

He said authorities were exploring additional mechanisms to improve payment flows, including a proposed crop catchers’ buffer fund, warehouse receipt systems and arrangements that could enable farmers to offset certain utility bills against grain delivered to the GMB.

Government is also engaging financial institutions to allow farmers to use warehouse receipts as collateral for financing before receiving full payment for their grain.

“We are now negotiating with financial institutions that this asset called maize, now represented by the warehouse receipt, the farmer can actually borrow based on that without even receiving a payment upfront,” said Dr Masuka.

The measures come as authorities prepare for the possibility of adverse weather conditions linked to the anticipated El Niño phenomenon during the 2026/27 season. El Niño, characterised by abnormal warming of the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, can disrupt rainfall patterns across Southern Africa and increase the likelihood of drought conditions.

Minister Masuka said Government had developed a comprehensive preparedness strategy based on lessons learnt from the severe drought experienced in 2024.

“One of the main pillars is an enhanced strategic grain reserve, where we aim to exit in a year at about 450 000 tonnes,” he said.

Minister Masuka said the reserve would enable Government to support vulnerable rural communities through social protection programmes while allowing the private sector to import maize where necessary for commercial milling and stockfeed requirements.

“We continue to monitor consumption; we continue to monitor supply, especially in the context of the predicted El Niño in 2026/27,” he said.

Minister Masuka said the Government will continue to track food supplies, consumption trends and weather developments to ensure the country remains adequately prepared for any climatic shocks.

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