Zim News Blog -NEWS NETWORK

Harare – Zimbabwe’s healthcare system is teetering on the brink of collapse, and the nation’s nurses are preparing to take drastic action. The Zimbabwe Nurses Association (ZINA) has announced a nationwide strike set to begin in April, a move that threatens to cripple already strained medical services. But this isn’t simply a dispute over salaries; […]

The post The April Walkout: The Hidden Reason Why Zimbabwe’s Nurses Are Risking Everything first appeared on My Zimbabwe News.

Source: 2 colonels elevated to brigadier general – herald

Columbus Mabika-Herald Reporter

President Mnangagwa yesterday promoted two Zimbabwe National Army colonels to the rank of brigadier general.

The newly promoted officers are Carlos Dube and Jabulani Mulambo.

The promotions, conducted in accordance with the Defence Act, followed their recent appointments as brigade commanders. Brigadier General Dube is now Commander 3 Infantry Brigade in Mutare, while Brigadier General Mulambo assumes command of 2 Infantry Brigade in Harare.

The two senior officers were conferred with their new rank badges at a ceremony presided over by the Commander of the ZNA, Lieutenant General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi, at Josiah Magama Tongogara Barracks in Harare.

Lt‑Gen Tapfumaneyi said their elevation was a testament to distinguished service, strong leadership and unwavering dedication to duty.

“I am greatly honoured to preside over this memorable and prestigious event, which marks the promotion of Colonel KC Dube and Colonel J Mulambo from the rank of Colonel to Brigadier General. I wish to congratulate both of you on your promotion,” he said.

He noted that the promotions reflected President Mnangagwa’s trust and confidence in the officers, in his capacity as Commander‑in‑Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.

Lt‑Gen Tapfumaneyi said the pair had demonstrated exceptional professionalism, commitment and leadership throughout their military careers, earning the responsibility to operate at a higher level of command. “Your promotion is testimony to your possession of the required qualities and attributes of military leadership at General level. This is a result of a thorough and exhaustive assessment by the Command Element,” he said.

He urged the two Brigadier Generals to embrace their new roles with diligence, adding that senior command demands sound judgement, strategic thinking and the ability to inspire those under their leadership.

“As leaders, never undermine the collective contributions of a team in the realisation of diverse military objectives. Equally, appreciate the support you receive from both subordinates and superiors, which has facilitated your elevation.”

Lt‑Gen Tapfumaneyi underscored the need for adaptability in a continually evolving operational environment, reminding the officers that promotions come with heightened responsibilities and expectations. “Promotions are characterised by increased duties and responsibilities. Despite the challenges and adjustments that come with the new rank and appointment, more will be expected from you by both your superiors and subordinates.”

He also placed the promotions within the broader national context, noting that the country is undergoing a transitional economic and institutional revitalisation phase under the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS1), a key pillar towards attaining Vision 2030.

“Our country is going through a transitional economic and institutional revitalisation phase, which undoubtedly requires your complementary effort. Let us all be seen to be actively contributing to this patriotic cause in our respective spheres of employment.”

The post 2 colonels elevated to brigadier general appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.

Chenxi Investments has been fined but continues stripping vegetation and polluting rivers

Source: Mining company linked to Zimbabwean president is destroying famous landmarks | GroundUp

Satellite imagery shows how open-cast gold mining in Shurugwi, Zimbabwe, has stripped 12 square kilometres of pristine vegetation from the Boterekwa Escarpment. Interact with the satellite imagery here.

• Open-cast mining by Chenxi Investments has stripped about 12km² of vegetation in Shurugwi, leaving parts of the Boterekwa Escarpment and Dunraven Falls scarred and vulnerable to erosion.
• Mining methods using chemicals like sodium cyanide have polluted rivers and streams. Activists warn of long-term environmental harm and potential disasters such as landslides
• The company, chaired by Collins Mnangagwa, appears to be operating with impunity despite past fines and illegal activity findings, with authorities seen as unwilling or unable to act.

A gold mining company linked to President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s son has stripped vegetation from the land in central Zimbabwe, and polluted rivers and streams.

Satellite imagery confirms what residents and environmental activists in Shurugwi have long feared. In just five years, open-cast gold mining by Chenxi Investments (Private) Limited has stripped about 12km² of pristine vegetation from the town’s most famous tourist attraction. Part of the Boterekwa Escarpment, also known as Wolfshall Pass, and the Dunraven Falls, now lie scarred and bare.

Images from Google Earth and Copernicus Sentinel, interactive designed by Adam Oxford/Area of Effect

Since the company started mining in the area in 2021, residents, traditional leaders and environmental activists have complained. Rivers and streams are polluted by mining sediment and chemical run-off from heaps of crushed ore.

But the company has dismissed the complaints, insisting its operations are lawful.

Chenxi’s chairman, Collins Mnangagwa, son of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, is widely perceived as untouchable, and critics believe this has protected the company and allowed it to continue mining.

We travelled to the area and saw how heavy machinery is levelling hillsides and burying indigenous trees in massive dumps. Chenxi uses a method known as heap leaching, piling crushed low-grade gold ore into large heaps and spraying it with sodium cyanide to dissolve gold and silver. The solution is then processed through resins, washed and re-dissolved before final recovery of solid gold. The process can take several weeks or months and leaves toxic waste if not properly contained.

A 2022 investigation by the NewsHawks revealed that Chenxi had partnered with Ansh Blue 4/8 (Private) Limited, which is owned by a local businessman identified only as Mahara. Mahara had approval for underground shaft mining but expanded operations with Chenxi into open-cast mining and heap leaching at the Boterekwa Escarpment.

Ansh Blue, which was the licence holder at the time, was found by the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) to have illegally embarked on open cast mining on the picturesque mountain range.

Benson Basera, provincial EMA manager in 2022, confirmed that the mining activities were illegal. “The miner has an environmental impact assessment for shaft mining,” he said.

Basera said EMA ordered the mining company to stop unapproved open-cast and vat leaching operations, fined Ansh Blue ZW$300,000 for doing this without an Environmental Impact Assessment, and noted that the illegal work had disfigured the scenic area.

But despite the fines and orders to halt illegal activity, operations continued, and Chenxi obtained licences from the Ministry of Mines.

Chenxi now operates under its own licence, making its mining activities lawful. But Chenxi director Simon Karimanzira acknowledged that the company has also incurred fines.

The Shurugwi Residents and Ratepayers Association says the damage is shocking.

“Boterekwa is a national treasure. People from across Zimbabwe came for scenic viewing and picnics, but that beauty is being destroyed,” said spokesperson Pardon Machocho.

Mining on hill slopes has left the Boterekwa Escarpment scarred and vulnerable to soil erosion. Photo: Mary Taruvinga

Ratepayers association chairperson Bulle Madzitire said, “Before Chenxi arrived, mining was done by artisanal miners. It was on a small scale, so it did not cause major concern. Chenxi’s giant operations, backed by the first family, are entirely different.”

“When it is raining, all the cyanide and toxic waste is washed into rivers and dams,” says Farai Maguwu, executive director of the Centre for Natural Resource Governance, which has been campaigning to stop the environmental destruction for years .

“This is a major problem, not only for Shurugwi but the whole country. Our rivers are now polluted. I will also not be surprised if this kind of mining does not result in landslides in the near future. It’s just a question of time before nature hits back,” he said.

“In private, officials at government institutions in Shurugwi express concern with Chenxi’s operations but the feeling is that those running the company are above the law. There is no political will,” Maguwu said.

He said the EMA and National Water Authority remained silent.

“This is because their hands are tied. They are afraid to ruffle the feathers of people and families behind the project,” said Maguwu.

Bhasera said the agency monitors Chenxi and produces quarterly reports for the Minister of State.

“Mining requires coordinated action by government, local authorities, and communities to ensure sustainability. We are one part of the process, but all stakeholders must act together,” he said.

Karimanzira said EMA fines were a normal part of mining. “We comply with regulations and seek guidance where needed. We are committed to rehabilitation, slope stabilisation, and tree planting, including hosting National Tree Planting Day.”

Shurugwi villagers complain that the company has blocked access to and destroyed indigenous forests where they used to pick mushrooms and wild fruits.

Resident Misheck Moyo said, “Chenxi has taken over large areas around Boterekwa and we no longer have access to our ancestral lands, including grazing areas. Our lifestyles have been destroyed and we are no longer free in our movement because they have placed armed guards around the mines.”

The post Mining company linked to Zimbabwean president is destroying famous landmarks  appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.

Source: VP Mohadi hails liberalisation of airwaves – herald

Thupeyo Muleya-Beitbridge Bureau

Vice President Dr Kembo Mohadi has described the liberalisation of the airwaves under the Second Republic as a game‑changer for Zimbabwe, applauding its contribution to unlocking community voices and promoting inclusive growth.

He made the remarks yesterday during a visit to one of the country’s 14 licensed community radio stations — Lotsha FM — which is based in Beitbridge District and broadcasts largely in the TshiVenda language.

VP Mohadi said the visit formed part of his assessment of high‑impact projects ahead of this year’s Independence Day celebrations.

He said community radio stations such as Lotsha FM are vital in bridging the information gap and ensuring that citizens receive news and updates in their local languages.

“They are a vital tool for promoting national unity, democracy and social transformation. In Matabeleland South, stations like Bayethe FM, Radio Bukalanga and Ntepe‑Manama are doing remarkable work in promoting local languages and culture,” said VP Mohadi.

“Community radio stations in Zimbabwe have significantly improved access to information in rural and marginalised areas, reaching thousands of listeners through the 14 licensed stations.

“They enhance democracy, promote local languages and culture, and provide vital updates on health and agriculture, fostering community participation.”

He added that stations like Lotsha FM demonstrate how community ownership and locally produced content empower residents to address local issues from an informed perspective.

The Vice President said President Mnangagwa’s vision for a prosperous Zimbabwe is taking shape, with community radio stations playing a key role in achieving Vision 2030.

In Matabeleland North, stations include Twasumbuka Community Radio Trust (serving Binga, Kamativi and Siabuwa), Mbembesi Development Trust (Ingqanga FM), and Lyeja‑Nyayi Development Trust, which covers Hwange and Victoria Falls.

These stations provide timely information on health, education and agriculture, while giving a voice to marginalised communities.

During his visit to Binga in May 2023, President Mnangagwa was interviewed by Twasumbuka FM on his arrival for the National Cultural Month launch at Kwariyangwe High School.

VP Mohadi also emphasised the Government’s commitment to broadening access to information through supporting community radio stations.

“Lotsha FM is a testament to this, having received funding to set up and operate. With sustainable funding and editorial independence, these stations will continue to thrive.”

He described Lotsha FM as a beacon of hope in Beitbridge, established through the Broadcasting Fund, and noted that the station has greatly improved access to information in rural areas while empowering residents to confront local challenges.

Cde Mohadi donated US$10 000 to Lotsha FM and pledged to provide an operational vehicle to enhance the station’s efficiency. The donation is expected to boost the station’s capacity in content production, outreach and community engagement.

The Vice President acknowledged the operational challenges facing community radio stations and stressed the importance of consistent support.

“As the Government, we are aware that challenges exist, but with sustainable funding, local capacity‑building and editorial independence, this station will thrive.”

He urged stakeholders — including the private sector and the community — to support Lotsha FM’s long‑term sustainability.

“As a community with stakeholders eager to develop their information space, we encourage collective efforts by the private sector, the community and the Government to strengthen the sustainability model at Lotsha FM.”

He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening community media under the Second Republic, saying such platforms are crucial in achieving national development goals.

“Information dissemination through radio empowers urban and rural communities in several ways — providing timely and relevant updates on health, education, agriculture and governance, helping communities make informed decisions.

“Furthermore, community radios showcase local talent, culture and languages, preserving heritage and promoting social cohesion.”

He said Lotsha FM now reaches communities in Beitbridge East — including Tshaswingo, Dite and Beitbridge town — and Beitbridge West in areas such as Mapani, Masera, Mazunga and Sentinel.

Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, said Lotsha FM serves the Beitbridge community by providing vital information, promoting local culture and fostering national unity.

“This is one of four licensed community radio stations in our province — alongside Radio Bukalanga (Plumtree), Bayethe FM (Matobo) and Ntepe‑Manama (Gwanda) — which reflects the Second Republic’s commitment to broadening access to information and promoting inclusive growth.”

Lotsha FM board chairman, Mr Mekia Muyambo, expressed appreciation for VP Mohadi’s visit and donation. He said the station has achieved significant milestones, including broadcasting in local languages such as TshiVenda, Sotho, Shangani, Ndebele and others spoken in the community, while hosting community events and providing critical information on health, education, agriculture and other current affairs.

The post VP Mohadi hails liberalisation of airwaves  appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.

Source: VP Mohadi hails liberalisation of airwaves – herald

Thupeyo Muleya-Beitbridge Bureau

Vice President Dr Kembo Mohadi has described the liberalisation of the airwaves under the Second Republic as a game‑changer for Zimbabwe, applauding its contribution to unlocking community voices and promoting inclusive growth.

He made the remarks yesterday during a visit to one of the country’s 14 licensed community radio stations — Lotsha FM — which is based in Beitbridge District and broadcasts largely in the TshiVenda language.

VP Mohadi said the visit formed part of his assessment of high‑impact projects ahead of this year’s Independence Day celebrations.

He said community radio stations such as Lotsha FM are vital in bridging the information gap and ensuring that citizens receive news and updates in their local languages.

“They are a vital tool for promoting national unity, democracy and social transformation. In Matabeleland South, stations like Bayethe FM, Radio Bukalanga and Ntepe‑Manama are doing remarkable work in promoting local languages and culture,” said VP Mohadi.

“Community radio stations in Zimbabwe have significantly improved access to information in rural and marginalised areas, reaching thousands of listeners through the 14 licensed stations.

“They enhance democracy, promote local languages and culture, and provide vital updates on health and agriculture, fostering community participation.”

He added that stations like Lotsha FM demonstrate how community ownership and locally produced content empower residents to address local issues from an informed perspective.

The Vice President said President Mnangagwa’s vision for a prosperous Zimbabwe is taking shape, with community radio stations playing a key role in achieving Vision 2030.

In Matabeleland North, stations include Twasumbuka Community Radio Trust (serving Binga, Kamativi and Siabuwa), Mbembesi Development Trust (Ingqanga FM), and Lyeja‑Nyayi Development Trust, which covers Hwange and Victoria Falls.

These stations provide timely information on health, education and agriculture, while giving a voice to marginalised communities.

During his visit to Binga in May 2023, President Mnangagwa was interviewed by Twasumbuka FM on his arrival for the National Cultural Month launch at Kwariyangwe High School.

VP Mohadi also emphasised the Government’s commitment to broadening access to information through supporting community radio stations.

“Lotsha FM is a testament to this, having received funding to set up and operate. With sustainable funding and editorial independence, these stations will continue to thrive.”

He described Lotsha FM as a beacon of hope in Beitbridge, established through the Broadcasting Fund, and noted that the station has greatly improved access to information in rural areas while empowering residents to confront local challenges.

Cde Mohadi donated US$10 000 to Lotsha FM and pledged to provide an operational vehicle to enhance the station’s efficiency. The donation is expected to boost the station’s capacity in content production, outreach and community engagement.

The Vice President acknowledged the operational challenges facing community radio stations and stressed the importance of consistent support.

“As the Government, we are aware that challenges exist, but with sustainable funding, local capacity‑building and editorial independence, this station will thrive.”

He urged stakeholders — including the private sector and the community — to support Lotsha FM’s long‑term sustainability.

“As a community with stakeholders eager to develop their information space, we encourage collective efforts by the private sector, the community and the Government to strengthen the sustainability model at Lotsha FM.”

He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening community media under the Second Republic, saying such platforms are crucial in achieving national development goals.

“Information dissemination through radio empowers urban and rural communities in several ways — providing timely and relevant updates on health, education, agriculture and governance, helping communities make informed decisions.

“Furthermore, community radios showcase local talent, culture and languages, preserving heritage and promoting social cohesion.”

He said Lotsha FM now reaches communities in Beitbridge East — including Tshaswingo, Dite and Beitbridge town — and Beitbridge West in areas such as Mapani, Masera, Mazunga and Sentinel.

Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, said Lotsha FM serves the Beitbridge community by providing vital information, promoting local culture and fostering national unity.

“This is one of four licensed community radio stations in our province — alongside Radio Bukalanga (Plumtree), Bayethe FM (Matobo) and Ntepe‑Manama (Gwanda) — which reflects the Second Republic’s commitment to broadening access to information and promoting inclusive growth.”

Lotsha FM board chairman, Mr Mekia Muyambo, expressed appreciation for VP Mohadi’s visit and donation. He said the station has achieved significant milestones, including broadcasting in local languages such as TshiVenda, Sotho, Shangani, Ndebele and others spoken in the community, while hosting community events and providing critical information on health, education, agriculture and other current affairs.

The post VP Mohadi hails liberalisation of airwaves  appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.