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2024-05-02 14:39:39 *New ZiG Currency Goes Physical 
 But Not Everywhere* The notes and coins for Zimbabwe's sixth currency since independence in 1980, Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG), hit the streets this week as the government makes yet another attempt to tame inflation. The money has coins worth 1, 2, and 5 ZiG, and notes for denominations between ZiG10 and ZiG200. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- President Emmerson Mnangagwa pleased with the public's reception of the ZiG so far. "I commend all Zimbabweans for the manner in which we have adopted and are protecting the use of our currency," he said. The ZiG, according to the government, is backed by 2.5 tonnes of gold and other minerals, such as diamonds, thus making it a "structured currency". Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) governor John Mushayavanhu told the media that the ZiG was a result of wide consultations that involved experts from the World Bank. The governor vowed that, unlike his predecessors, the business of "wantonly" printing money wouldn't be tolerated under him. *Pay More If You Pay In ZiG* The money is already available in banks countrywide with individual withdrawal limits pegged at ZiG3 000 (about R5 460) weekly for individuals. For corporates, the weekly withdrawal is ZiG30 000 (R54 560) while schools, hospitals, clinics and local authorities can get ZiG250 000 (R455 000) monthly, and government departments can withdraw ZiG300 000 (R545 600) monthly. For vendors, in the second-largest city of Bulawayo, there's optimism that the currency could at least for some time be a solution. Sandra Moyo said: I don't mind selling my vegetables in the ZiG, provided I won't have issues when restocking. But for those who import goods the stability of the ZiG will make it work provided they find an official source to buy forex to restock in say, South Africa and Botswana. The official rand to ZiG rate in Zimbabwe places the latter in a stronger position. However, on the black market, the ZiG has already lost value barely a month since its digital introduction. "We do simply sell our things more expensive in the ZiG so that we have room to buy the costly forex on the streets. In some cases, this discourages people from buying using the ZiG when they have forex, which is more competitive," Moyo said. "Therefore, as long as the ZiG does not earn the bad money tag, we are ready to trade." Public transport operators on local routes are yet to accept the ZiG. "Our challenge is that we buy fuel in forex. We are comfortable charging in rands and American dollars. We don't have a ZiG fare for now," said Taruvinga Zhou, a transport operator. Air Zimbabwe and Fast Jet are the only airlines accepting ZiG payments. In 2022, Zimbabwe owed South African Airways (SAA), Emirates and other international airlines a total of $177.6 million in funds that could not be repatriated due to currency shortages. Economists say those airlines might stick to foreign currency charges instead of ZiG. *Legacy Of Currency Crisis* Currency woes are an all-familiar story in Zimbabwe. At the turn of the millennium, the economy started deteriorating. This was against the backdrop of farm invasions, government corruption, and violation of democracy and human rights resulting in international isolation of the Robert Mugabe regime through sanctions by the European Union (EU), the United States (US) and withdrawal from the Commonwealth. Similar to past episodes when introducing a new currency, the regime in Harare slashed zeros which accumulated due to inflation that had eroded almost 80% of a currency commonly referred to as the Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS), but denominated as the Zimbabwe dollar. On 5 April, the RBZ announced that it was introducing the ZiG, when physical notes of the RTGS were already rejected by the public. The highest denomination (Z$100) was not enough to buy a loaf of bread which cost, at the time, Z$30 000. This meant that bread could be bought in rand, US dollars, or using the RTGS in electronic form. *News24*
2024-05-02 14:39:24 *Political Polarization Evident As Low Voter Turnout Plagues By-Elections* In Zimbabwe’s political theatre, the curtain rises and falls on by-elections with a troubling trend: the seats are filled, but the audience is sparse The recent by-elections have once again spotlighted the deepening chasm of political polarization. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- In light of this ideological division, the essence of democratic governance hangs in the balance, overlooked and overshadowed by partisan interests. Yet, despite their importance, the by-elections continue to be snubbed, a symptom of the widening gap between political factions. This apathy undermines the very essence of democracy, which thrives on citizen participation and accountability. The widening gap of political polarization has relegated the essence of by-elections to the sidelines, diminishing their significance in the eyes of both politicians and the electorate. The Zimbabwe Election Support Network’s (ZESN)observations in the just-ended by-elections reveal a landscape where citizens, though empowered by the constitution to influence the national direction, are retreating from the ballot box. Despite ZESN’s commendation of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) for logistical improvements and a peaceful campaign atmosphere, the voter turnout remains a whisper in the clamour of political discourse. In the recent by-elections, marked by the triumph of Zanu PF candidates with substantial margins, the prevailing political landscape further underscores the entrenched nature of this polarization. Kevin Mutimbanyoka’s victory with a lead of 1,559 votes and George Mashavave’s win with a lead of 2,040 votes serve as a testament to this reality. The voter turnout in both by-elections was very low. Harare East Constituency recorded a turnout of 15.2%, and Mount Pleasant Constituency recorded an 11.6% turnout. During the August 2023 harmonised elections, a total of 24 482 people cast their votes in Harare East while 26 160 participated in the election in Mount Pleasant. According to Election Resource Centre (ERC) legal and advocacy officer Takunda Tsunga, a pre-election survey indicated that 22,8% were unaware of the by-elections. Tsunga said the low voter turnout is a new low. “While by-elections generally have lower voter turnout rates, the levels are now concerning and are testament to the insufficient voter education being undertaken ahead of the by-elections.” These elections are not mere formalities; they are the bedrock upon which legislative bodies are built, laws are crafted, and the citizenry’s interests are represented. The political polarization in Zimbabwe is not a new phenomenon. It has been a persistent issue, with the ruling ZANU-PF and opposition parties like CCC and MDC-T pulling apart to unprecedented distances. This divide has seeped into the electorate, leaving a polarized voting population that is increasingly disenchanted with the electoral process. In a climate where political allegiance often trumps substantive policy discussions, the democratic spirit is at risk of being eroded. Meanwhile, ZESN’s commendation of the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) for certain improvements in the electoral process is one to be taken note of. The enhanced quality of signage, legibility of voter rolls, and the observed peaceful environment during campaigns are certainly steps in the right direction. Yet, these commendable efforts are overshadowed by the broader neglect of key electoral stakeholders, particularly Persons With Disabilities (PWDs). Addressing the needs of PWDs remains a pressing issue for ZEC. In a society striving for inclusivity and equal representation, the needs of PWDs cannot be sidelined. ZESN rightly calls for the ZEC to pay heed to this marginalized demographic, urging improvements to accommodate their participation in the electoral process. From accessibility to polling stations to the legibility of voter rolls, there is an urgent need for reforms that ensure every citizen, regardless of physical ability, can exercise their constitutional rights without hindrance. Moreover, ZESN recommends increasing font sizes for displayed voter rolls as a step towards inclusivity. In a digital age where information accessibility is paramount, catering to the needs of those with visual impairment is not just a moral imperative but a fundamental aspect of democratic governance. It’s a call for the ZEC to count votes and make every vote count. *263chat*
2024-05-02 14:23:24 *Netherlands Crush Zimbabwe’s Women T20 World Cup Debut Dream* The Lady Chevrons dream of playing the 2024 Women’s World Cup which is scheduled for Bangladesh in September was shuttered on Wednesday with a 14-run defeat to the Netherlands at the ongoing World Cup Qualifier in the United Arab Emirates. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- Lady Chevrons’ defeat was the third one at the tournament where they only managed one win over host United Arab Emirates. Zimbabwe succumbed to its other two defeats in the hands of minor Vanuatu and Ireland. Starting with fielding after losing the toss, Zimbabwe started strong as they eliminated the Oranges’ top bats lady Iris Zwilling early, however, this was not enough as other batters came to the party, helping the side to push for 136 runs for 6 wickets. A poor performance with the bat once again cost Lady Chevrons who failed to chase 136, as they were restricted to 121 runs in 20 overs. Batters Modester Mupachikwa and Josephine Nkomo did well for Zimbabwe as they posted 39 runs which somehow was not enough as the Netherlands countered by grabbing three wickets inside the Powerplay. In the other group B match played Ireland progressed to the semi-finals with a 9 wickets win over Vanuatu on Wednesday evening, joining Sri Lanka who also made it through in group A after beating Uganda by 67 runs. In the semi-finals group A number one faces group B number 2 while Group B number One plays group A number 2. The tournament will see the top two teams occupying the remaining two slots at the 2024 T20 World Cup to be played in Bangladesh this September. *NewZW*
2024-05-02 13:31:07 *ZCTU Blasts Rampant Corruption, Says Inequality Gap Widening* THE Zimbabwe Congress (ZCTU) of Trade Unions has bemoaned rampant corruption on the back of concerns that the gap between the haves and have-nots continues to widen. In her keynote address to mark the May 1 commemorations, ZCTU President Florence Taruvinga decried the hardships faced by the working class highlighting the just-ended drought will further complicate the situation. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- The event was held under the theme; “Workers Demand an Inclusive Zimbabwe Free from Poverty, Corruption and Oppression” ARISE WORKERS ARISE!!! in line with the challenges bedevilling the country’s working class. “It is a war cry for battle. The battle for accountability in terms of our national resources, better remuneration and improved social security among others. Workers of Zimbabwe, we are now in a war situation and none but ourselves are our liberators,” she said. She said it is all doom and gloom for workers and ordinary citizens with the situation of the common man remaining pathetic despite years of promises that all would be well from the government. Taruvinga said over the years the labour fraternity has not seen improvements in respect of labour rights, combating corruption, respect for the rule of law and the will of the people and restraint of plunder of natural resources. As a result, the ZCTU leader contends that non-resolution to these matters is keeping the majority of citizens in bondage. “The socio-economic divide between the haves and have-nots is widening by the day. This calls for serious introspection by the working class towards their common goal. We cannot have a situation where poverty is the common denominator for the majority while a chosen clique plunders the country,” she said. The ZCTU leader said workers have lost investments, savings and incomes in 2008’s runaway inflation period and 2016 when the country introduced Bond Notes without recourse time and again over the years as the government introduced new monetary policies without adequate consultations. “This results in non-acceptance of such policies by other stakeholders leading to their failure no matter how good they may be. Issues of trust and faith must not be downplayed. We moved from Bearer Cheques, Agro Cheques, RTGS and Bond notes without an improvement. We now have the ZIG and we still wait to see its effectiveness,” added Taruvinga. *NewZW*
2024-05-02 13:30:44 *Agric Ministry, ZESA Strike Deal* The Ministry of Land,Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development has struck a deal with power utility ZESA to ring fence wheat farmers in order to shield the growers from loadshedding, it has been learnt. This was revealed by the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Land,Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development , Professor Obert Jiri. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- In order to lessen the consequences of load shedding, wheat producers are advised to register with the government, ZESA, and wheat production clusters. “ZESA is ring fencing the power for the wheat farmers .We urged wheat farmers to register with us and ZESA so that the meter numbers are the one that the power utility uses to locate a farmer in a cluster in order to be able to be ring fenced. Currently it is working well,” Professor Jiri said. The Zimbabwe Commercial Farmers Union president Dr Shadrek Makombe weighed in saying:”Farmers are in clusters and ZESA is ring fencing those farmers meaning at any one time all the effort is being made to make sure these wheat farmers have got electricity. Of course there are challenges here and there but in some areas the turnaround like attending faults has improved,” Dr Makombe said. Graeme Murdoch ,the chairperson for Food Crop Contractors Association (FCCA) concurred saying:” ZESA is ring fencing wheat farmers this year to ensure uninterrupted power. According to Edward Dune,the vice president of the Tobacco Farmers Union Trust, continued power cuts has been a serious challenge to winter wheat farmers resulting in them resorting to expensive diesel powered generators . “Continued load shedding has become a perennial challenge in winter wheat production resulting in increased costs as farmers resort to use of diesel powered generators,” Dune said . *Businesstimes*
2024-05-02 13:30:29 *Netherlands Crush Zimbabwe’s Women T20 World Cup Debut Dream* The Lady Chevrons dream of playing the 2024 Women’s World Cup which is scheduled for Bangladesh in September was shuttered on Wednesday with a 14-run defeat to the Netherlands at the ongoing World Cup Qualifier in the United Arab Emirates. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- Lady Chevrons’ defeat was the third one at the tournament where they only managed one win over host United Arab Emirates. Zimbabwe succumbed to its other two defeats in the hands of minor Vanuatu and Ireland. Starting with fielding after losing the toss, Zimbabwe started strong as they eliminated the Oranges’ top bats lady Iris Zwilling early, however, this was not enough as other batters came to the party, helping the side to push for 136 runs for 6 wickets. A poor performance with the bat once again cost Lady Chevrons who failed to chase 136, as they were restricted to 121 runs in 20 overs. Batters Modester Mupachikwa and Josephine Nkomo did well for Zimbabwe as they posted 39 runs which somehow was not enough as the Netherlands countered by grabbing three wickets inside the Powerplay. In the other group B match played Ireland progressed to the semi-finals with a 9 wickets win over Vanuatu on Wednesday evening, joining Sri Lanka who also made it through in group A after beating Uganda by 67 runs. In the semi-finals group A number one faces group B number 2 while Group B number One plays group A number 2. The tournament will see the top two teams occupying the remaining two slots at the 2024 T20 World Cup to be played in Bangladesh this September. *NewZW*
2024-05-02 13:30:11 *Locked Away For 3 Years: Woman's Safety Or Juju Suspicions* A YOUNG woman has been locked inside the house for THREE years and her grandmother says it’s for her own safety because her life is under threat. However, her mother claims there is more than what meets the eye. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- Talent Gent’s grandmother, Gogo Mushore, who is 71, claims there is a rogue man in the neighbourhood who wants to abduct her because she turned down his romantic advances. Talent’s mother, Joyleen Gent, in a brief conversation with H-Metro before she was barred from revealing more by Gogo Mushore, said: “There is more to this. I am not feeling well, if you may provide my daughter with a pen to write something. “Please help us.” Others, in the neighbourhood, though, say this imprisonment has something to do with juju. Talent, the woman who has not been outside the house for THREE years, is just 23. She has told H-Metro she is desperate to see what is happening outside her house and enjoy simple things like a sunbath. She stays with her mother and grandmother and the two have been making sure that she does not go outside the house in Zengeza, Chitungwiza. Her facial features have become lighter and she is now, through H-Metro, appealing for help. “I am not allowed to leave this house. “Ndavekudawo kumbo buda panze,” said Talent. Her grandmother, a widow, said it was all meant to keep Talent safe. Gogo Mushore said Talent was being hunted down by a male neighbour who initially wanted to marry her only for his advances to be turned down. “Ndakaona kuti akatogara zvake mumba kwehupenyu hwake hwese zvirinani pakuti apondwe,” said Gogo Mushore. “There is a man within our neighbourhood who proposed to Talent and she turned him away. “From that day, he tried to take her by force and we warned him. “He ended up sending his guys to take her by force. “Murume uyu akasvika pakumitisa varoora vangu vaviri achiedza kuwana mukana wekusvika pana Talent.” Gogo Mushore removed all tenants from her house because she did not want visitors to her house, which could give the rogue man a chance to sneak into the premises and “abduct” her. “We decided to stay without tenants because of that man. “My daughter (Talent’s mother) separated from her husband and is not feeling well. “I am a widow, none of us is going to work so the challenge is that we are starving, there is no food in the house. “We have some church pastors praying for us, but they conduct their prayers at a ground somewhere, not in this house. “Our hope is on their prayers, without that, the life we are living here is unbearable.” However, she barred Talent’s mother, Joyleen, from answering H-Metro’s questions about the strange set-up at the house. Gogo Mushore said Joyleen was not well. However, before she intervened and barred her, Joyleen had told H-Metro: “There is more to this. I am not feeling well, if you may provide my daughter with a pen to write something. “Please help us.” Some Zengeza residents suspect this strange set up could be related to juju. “We are concerned for Talent’s life. “We last saw her three years ago, but she is at the house, we suspect there is juju to it. “Zengeza yanetsa, from Grant to Gent family, zvakaoma,” said one of the residents. *Zimpapers*
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2024-05-02 08:46:20 *Prophet Tawanda Bondera Brings Spiritual Enlightenment to Pretoria* Prophet Dr. Tawanda Blessing Bondera is scheduled to visit Pretoria in South Africa, offering spiritual guidance and prophetic insights. The renowned prophet will conduct personalized one-on-one sessions on May 4th, 2024, and lead Prophetic Sunday on May 5th, 2024, delivering direction, prophetic words, and deliverance to attendees. With a reputation for powerful and dynamic preaching, Prophet Tawanda Blessing Bondera's upcoming visit has stirred anticipation and excitement among believers in Pretoria and beyond. His ministry, known for impactful prophecies and teachings, promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking spiritual enlightenment. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- The one-on-one sessions on May 4th will provide individuals with the opportunity to receive direct counsel from the esteemed prophet, tailored to their unique circumstances, along with prayers for deliverance and breakthroughs in various areas of life. Following the one-on-one sessions, Prophet Tawanda Blessing Bondera will lead one of the largest Prophetic Sundays at the Pretoria Assembly on May 5th, 2024. The event, hosted at Tim Modise Primary School from 9 am to 3 pm, guarantees a day filled with powerful preaching, prophecies, teachings, and anointing. Believers from diverse backgrounds are expected to converge at Tim Modise Primary School to experience the transformative ministry of Prophet Tawanda Blessing Bondera. With his reputation for delivering timely and accurate prophecies, coupled with his captivating preaching style, attendees can anticipate a spiritually uplifting encounter. The event is projected to draw a large crowd, with attendees traveling from various parts of South Africa and beyond. In addition to Prophet Tawanda Blessing Bondera's ministry, worship sessions, prayer vigils, and opportunities for personal reflection will be featured. Amid ongoing challenges and uncertainties, the prophetic sessions and Sunday service offer hope and encouragement. Prophet Tawanda Blessing Bondera's visit is viewed as a divine opportunity for believers to receive direction and empowerment for the journey ahead. For those unable to attend in person, the event will be livestreamed on GHMI social media platforms, enabling global participation. As the date approaches, excitement mounts, with believers eagerly anticipating the transformative impact of Prophet Tawanda Blessing Bondera's visit to the Pretoria Assembly.
2024-05-02 08:03:04 *Doctors Push For Safe Working Conditions In Workers’ Day Message* AS Zimbabwe celebrated Workers’ Day on Wednesday, medical professionals across the country decried the dire working conditions within the healthcare sector. The Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights (ZADHR) highlighted that medical practitioners are disproportionately affected by the poor state of hospitals nationwide. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- “The Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights (ZADHR) joins the rest of the world in marking International Workers Day, 2024. This year’s commemorations are focused “on ensuring safety and health at work in a changing climate”. “In commemorating this day, ZADHR laments the state of our public health delivery system and the exposure of health professionals to harm in their line of duty,” read the statement. Doctors have repeatedly demanded improvements to their working environments, citing the dangers they face due to inadequate equipment and bad working conditions. Public hospitals in the country which the majority of citizens rely on are short of medical sundries hindering the effective delivery of services. ZADHR urged the government to implement concrete measures that will transform Zimbabwe’s healthcare system for the better. “For years, health workers in Zimbabwe have clamoured for a health service and health workplace that promotes and protects their rights through strengthening infection control protocols and associated provisions for infection control such as personal protective equipment. “Effective infection control protocols will not only make the workplace a safe place but will contribute to boosting the moral and mental health of health professionals, which have been dented by poor remuneration, dilapidated infrastructure, equipment and shortage of drugs and sundries. “In marking this day, ZADHR continues to urge the government to address the health and safety concerns of health professionals to prioritise the health and wellbeing of health professionals,” read the statement further. *NewZW*
2024-05-02 08:02:53 *Cartels Hit Mining Sector* Prominent government officials connected to political bigwigs are said to have established a cartel that is grabbing gold mining claims across the country, Business Times can report. Several sources in the mining industry told this publication this week that there is a fierce war to control mining claims across the country. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- Mines Minister, Winston Chitando, promised to investigate the claims. “I will do my investigations into these matters but for now you can send your questions in writing so that I can give you a comprehensive answer,” Chitando said before hanging up. But impeccable sources insist so severe were the grabs and the most affected were widows and orphans. “It’s really sad that there are so many well-knit corruption syndicates involving high ranking officials in the government, including in the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development taking over the claims that are already occupied with some miners. “What we are now seeing is that some powerful figures are now coming with back dated documentation on the mines which we have mined for close to a decade now. “Our members haven’t mined properly since January due to this fight and the situation has intensified across the country hence the reduction in gold output despite not having heavy rains,” an official of a mining association, who preferred anonymity told Business Times this week. The source added: “This could destabilise the mining sector and significantly reduce output given that the heavyweights don’t have the same passion to work for the country like small scale miners whom they have taken the mines from. “Even when they manage to get the gold in huge quantities they are smuggling it outside the country’s borders due to high demand of gold in the world right now.” Wellington Takavarasha, CEO of the Zimbabwe Miners Federation (ZMF), acknowledged that there were several disputes over mining claims. ” There are a number of disputes. The miners can approach our offices and the provincial directors to resolve such disputes to bring sanity into the sector. “It has happened and it is happening but not on such a high magnitude as purported by some people,” Takavarasha said. He added: “We have seen orphans and widows encountering such problems but we are helping out to ensure they get back their claims back. “The Mines and Mineral Act is clear that whoever started pegging will win.” *Businesstimes*
2024-05-02 08:02:42 *Chamisa Ally Walks Out On ZCTU Boss* OPPOSITION leader Nelson Chamisa’s close ally Ostallos Siziba on Tuesday walked out on the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) president, Florence Taruvinga’s Workers Day address with a sizable number of the crowds following suit. The incident occurred at Gwanzura Stadium in Harare where the country’s main labour organ commemorated May 1 under strict instructions from police not to entertain any political party hijacking the event. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- Siziba who arrived after the commencement of proceedings allegedly made frantic efforts to address the workers but was not given such an opportunity. He was reportedly representing Chamisa. However, as Taruvinga was addressing the workers an infuriated Siziba called it a day and made his way out of the stadium. As he reached the terraces he was greeted by a zealous crowd almost bringing the program to a halt. Sources who spoke to NewZimbabwe.com alleged Siziba could not stomach the mantra “Nyika inoshandirwa nevene vayo” by the ZCTU leader which is taken off President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s slogan “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo”. “No. He did not walk out because of not being afforded a slot to speak but got infuriated when Taruvinga uttered the mantra more the same like “Nyika inoshandirwa nevene vayo

” . So what boggled his mind was that the instruction was not to entertain any political party. Why then would the ZCTU president mention a Zanu-PF aligned mantra?” said one source. However, after her address, Taruvinga distanced herself from any political affiliation saying she is pursuing an apolitical labour movement. “Partisanship has affected the country’s workers over the years so there is a need for the workers to stand in their lane, remember we once went through hardships as a nation and rallied behind these politicians but they still managed to find each other and proceeded to establish a Government of National Unity) (GNU) back in 2009. “When labor tried to push for their issues the same politicians remained focused on their political agendas. Such is the nature of politicians hence the need for workers to keep in their lane,” she said. *NewZW*
2024-05-02 08:02:30 *Zimbabwe Needs 1.1 mln Tonnes Of Grain For Drought Relief* Zimbabwe needs to import about 1.1 million tonnes of grain to cater for food-insecure people until March next year, following an El Nino-induced drought that also affected other countries in southern Africa, a government minister said Tuesday. According to the latest assessment report, Zimbabwe has a shortfall of 1,108,425 tonnes of grain at a consumption level of 10 kg per person per month, Jenfan Muswere, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, said during a media briefing after a cabinet meeting. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- The shortfall can be met mostly by the private sector, which has the capacity to import 1 million tonnes between April 2024 and March 2025, he said. Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared a state of disaster, saying the country requires over 2 billion U.S. dollars to respond to the drought, after cereal harvests declined to about 868,273 tonnes from 2.3 million tonnes last year. Zimbabwe needs 2.2 million tonnes of cereal annually for both human and livestock consumption. *Xinhua*
2024-05-02 08:02:17 *Tough Test For ZiG As Schools Open* THE Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency will this week face an acid test against the United States dollar as schools prepare to open for the 2024 second term. Parents and guardians intending to pay school fees for the second term in local currency are currently stranded as schools have not yet given them the green light to pay using the new ZiG currency. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- There are also indications that schools are reluctant to regularise their point-of-sale machines to facilitate ZiG transactions. This has forced many parents to hunt for the US dollar on the parallel market. However, the clampdown on money changers is complicating matters for them. As the crackdown against illegal foreign currency dealers escalates, the US dollar is now trading at 1:21 against ZiG on the parallel market with the dealers citing the high risks associated with the practice. Schools open next week and parents and guardians are already paying fees, but they havedecried the failure of school authorities to open platforms for them to be able to pay in ZiG which replaced the Zimdollar early last month after it lost three-quarters of its value to inflation this year. Schools pegged fees in United States dollars when they closed last term to hedge against the depreciating Zimdollar. NewsDay established that while schools are not openly rejecting payment of school fees in ZiG, most have not yet given parents the opportunity to pay in the local currency. Most schools have not yet provided their local currency bank accounts to parents for them to be able to make deposits in ZiG, resulting in parents paying exclusively in US dollars. “I want to pay in ZiG, but I can’t pay because I do not have the means,” a guardian, Fidelicy Makonde, told NewsDay. “The school has not rejected the local currency payment, but it has not yet provided the banking details for me to make the payment.” Another parent from Harare, Yemurai Magarezano, said she could not pay the fees in ZiG because they were not pegged in that currency. She said: “Even if I wanted to pay using ZiG, I do not know the amount I have to pay to the school, so I have no option but to pay in United States dollars. The school has not yet provided the ZiG amounts.” Primary and Secondary Education ministry spokesperson Taungana Ndoro called on schools to provide the necessary details. “The ministry’s position is clear that it is the right of every parent to be provided with the banking details of the local currency account of the school,” he said. Zimbabwe National Union of School Heads secretary-general Munyaradzi Majoni said schools were not rejecting payment in ZiG, but they were still regularising modalities for parents to be able to pay in the local currency. “Schools are accepting ZiG, but we have not yet assessed the full situation as schools are yet to open,” Majoni said. “Most schools are yet to regularise their point-of-sale machine systems so that parents can pay in ZiG. “But at the moment most parents are preferring to pay in United States dollars, but we will be assessing the full situation when school re-open because most parents will pay fees as soon as their children are in school.” *AMH*
2024-05-02 08:02:01 *‘Tighten Fiscal, Monetary Policies’* Authorities should tighten both fiscal and monetary policies as inflation continues to accelerate despite assurances from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe governor, John Mushayavanhu that high prices of goods were a temporary transitional phenomenon that would dissipate quickly after the introduction of the new currency, the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG, economists have warned. Nonetheless, it is becoming more and more evident that prices of goods and services continue to go up after Zimbabwe’s annual inflation for the month of April 2024 surged to 57.5% , up from 55.3% in March, largely as a result of the continuous volatility of the exchange rate. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- In April, the monthly inflation was 2.9%, shedding 2 percentage points on the March inflation rates of 4.9%. However, as inflation refers to the rate at which prices are rising, a decline in inflation does not indicate a drop in prices, rather, it indicates a 2.9% monthly increase in prices. Rising inflation is weighing down Zimbabwe’s competitiveness against other regional countries amid indications that the high cost of doing business is causing goods and services to be very expensive. Rampant inflation, analysts said, eliminates Zimbabwe’s chances of attaining a 3.5% economic growth in the face of rising production costs, thereby threatening business viability. The United States of America dollar inflation was 3.2% in April. Zimbabwe’s statistics agency, ZIMSTATS, said it will begin calculating inflation based on ZiG from May, when it will have comparisons for the month. Additionally, ZIMSTATS will provide blended inflation data. Economist, Dr Prosper Chitambara, said in order to stop the inflationary spiral, tighter fiscal and monetary policies are required. “I think what’s needed is to address the inflationary spiral through, obviously, the tightening of the monetary policy, and also the tightening of the fiscal policy. “So there’s a need for these two policies to complement each other. And once we’re able to ensure that monetary and fiscal discipline are sustained for a longer period of time, then I think we’ll begin to see inflation actually coming down, the inflation rate actually coming down. And when that happens, it means there will be more confidence by economic agents in the local currency, because inflation erodes the value of the currency, of any currency,” Dr Chitambara said. He added: “So once we’re able to stabilise inflation to below 10%, it means ZiG will be an effective store of value and even a medium of exchange. So there will be restoration of confidence by economic agents, which will also help in terms of sustaining the value of ZiG. “So we need to ensure that we sustainably address the high inflation as a way of restoring confidence in the ZiG.” According to Dr Chitambara, there is a significant correlation between exchange rate and inflation. “So there is a positive relationship between the exchange rate depreciation and inflation. So any depreciation of the exchange rate creates inflationary pressures in any economy. “I think the increase in inflation is reflecting or is a result largely of the depreciation of the local currency that we’ve experienced. Obviously, that puts pressure on the cost of doing business, on the cost of production, and ultimately on prices,” Chitambara said. Persistence Gwanyanya, another economist, who is also a member of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s Monetary Policy Committee, concurred stating that there is a significant correlation between the rate of inflation and the exchange rate. According to him, maintaining steady inflation rates requires managing the exchange rate. “When we were moving towards the introduction of new currency or the monetary policy statement, the exchange rate in the formal system was depreciating, the interbank exchange rate was depreciating which is also reflective of the liberalisation or increased liberalisation of the exchange rate and this only shows you that there’s a strong relationship between inflation and exchange rate in Zimbabwe. “So that is why we think if we manage the exchange rate with the ZiG, we are able to also stabilise inflation going forward,” Gwanyanya told Business Times. On Tuesday of this week, Zimbabweans began transacting in ZiG notes and coins after all banks obtained local currency from the central bank and distributed it throughout the country. Although, government is banking on ZiG, which is backed by gold and other minerals and foreign currency reserves, which appreciated against the greenback some few days after it was unveiled on April from ZiG13.56:US$1 to ZiG13.25:US$1, the local currency on Tuesday this week fell to U$13:43 on the official market. On the parallel market, ZiG is now trading at between ZiG 23 and ZiG28 against the greenback. Most companies are using the parallel market rate to price their products, fueling a spike in prices of goods and services. As a result, inflation also spiked. According to the government, ZiG will end market volatility. Apparently, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration has vowed to send a very powerful message to the foreign currency cartels , who have been wreaking havoc on the economy with their speculative machinations. In the past, the forex dealers’ charges appeared to be quite light as they were promptly granted bail even though they were causing significant harm to the economy. Vice President Constantino Chiwenga declared last week that ZiG is here to stay and that anyone who violates Exchange Control laws will be sent to a prison. He even advised currency merchants to arm themselves for battle. Kenyan President William Ruto , who visited Zimbabwe last week, praised ZiG, calling it a daring step by the Zimbabwean government that should spur economic development. *Businesstimes*
2024-05-02 07:24:11 *Only 2pc Of Zim Women Own Agricultural Land: World Bank* THE World Bank (WB) has revealed that only 2% of Zimbabwean women own agricultural land due to lack of finance to purchase commercial farms. Currently, most farmers occupying the farms repossessed by the government during the land reform programme since 2000 do not have title deeds. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- As such, these new farmers are unable to use their land as collateral to borrow from banks to start farming projects. Further, the previous owners, who were mostly white, are disputing the way their farms were repossessed with the government now having to pay US$3,5 billion to the farmers as compensation for land development. In its latest report titled Zimbabwe Gender Assessment Report, the global lender said while only 2% of women owned farms, 3,8% of men had title deeds to farms. “Compared to men, women have less ownership and access to agricultural land. Documented ownership of agricultural land is low in Zimbabwe, just 2% of women and 3,8% of men are deeded landowners,” the WB said. “This is driven by lack of finance to purchase commercial farmland, challenges with navigating the system of land titling and traditional exclusion of female spouses in land titling or user rights.” The WB said fewer women earned their livelihoods in the agriculture sector, 66% compared to 57%, with their productivity lower. “This trend is driven by their concentration in subsistence agriculture, limited access to land titles, especially for high productivity (commercial) farming; limited access to: financing, agricultural assets, farm, and crop management skills, and restricted access to additional farm labour,” it said. According to the WB, agriculture is one of Zimbabwe’s largest industries and one of the country’s central economic engines. Statistics from the global lender revealed that in 2019, the sector contributed 15-20% to national gross domestic product and 25% to formal employment. “It also served as the largest single source of export earnings in the country — accounting for 63% of raw materials for agriculture-based industries and it is a source of livelihood for 70% of the country’s population,” the World Bank said. “Agriculture serves as the country’s central source of food and nutrition security, and with 61,4% of the population being in rural locations. It is a critical avenue for job creation, economic growth and poverty reduction.” The WB urged the authorities to adopt policies that can encourage the participation of women in agriculture considering its earning potential. “The Government of Zimbabwe is encouraged to adopt an inter-sectoral strategy to address the many remaining dimensions of gender inequality in the country. It is necessary to address policy implementation gaps, harmonise gender laws and policies and strengthen the institutional capacities of gender-relevant ministries,” the report read in part. “Improved coordination mechanisms are needed to break down organisational silos and ensure a more aligned gender agenda across ministries. Innovative approaches are required to meet women's empowerment goals and targets in the country. “This report aims to identify priorities and strategies for advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment in Zimbabwe.” The report consolidated information on gender gaps and drivers of inequality in human endowments, economic opportunities, ownership and control of assets and voice and agency. “The report also seeks to identify promising practices that can be replicated and scaled, and which can be effectively cascaded across all geographic regions in the country,” it said. Insufficient resources to the Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development ministry were highlighted as major stumbling blocks. The WB added that programme implementation of gender policies had been hampered by siloed approaches, capacity limitations and high staff turnover rates. This, according to the bank, had impeded the government’s ability to effectively adopt new gender policies and implement existing ones. “To address these challenges, there is a need for improved integration and monitoring of gender targets across various government levels, as well as enhanced co-ordination and alignment among ministries and with stakeholders from the private and non-profit sectors,” the bank said *AMH*
2024-05-02 05:02:05 *'Embrace ZiG To Survive AfCFTA Competition'* Zimbabweans should embrace the newly introduced local currency, the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) to ensure the country does not become a supermarket of the region. This comes as the operationalisation of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) gathers momentum. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- The US dollar is in the basket of currencies used in Zimbabwe as part of the multi-currency system. As it stands the use of US dollar dominates local transactions and according to the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ), Dr John Mushayavanhu, by end of 2023, over 75 percent of local transactions were being conducted in US dollars. It is, however, feared that the dominance of the US dollar in the local market will attract more regional imports when the AfCFTA is operationalised, rendering Zimbabwe a supermarket for products from the region and beyond. It is highly anticipated that the use of US dollar will attract more competition locally, given the competitiveness of some regionally sourced goods. Already history has it that when the country dollarised during the inclusive Government over a decade ago, the country become a dumping ground of old automobiles, ICT materials and some home appliances among other goods, with regional and international traders taking Zimbabwe as a cheap source of US dollars. Zimbabwe’s production costs have lately been exorbitant, influenced by multiple factors such as high production costs stemming from myriad of factors including high cost of capital, turbulent macroeconomic environment, unavailability and higher electricity prices. However, the success of the recently introduced ZiG among other intervention measures by the Government, will undoubtedly enhance the local industry’s competitiveness compared to regional peers. The introduction of the ZiG, a structured currency backed by gold and other precious metals, is expected to be an impetus to the stabilisation of the local economy going forward. Speaking during the AfCFTA Tariff Offer dissemination workshop convened by the Competition and Tariff Commission (CTC) and Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) on Tuesday, economist Dr Reneth Mano, said embracing the local currency would go a long way in improving the local industry’s competitiveness in face of potential cut-throat competition to be caused by the AfCFTA. “We should be confident in our local currency, because its survival means our survival. If ZiG does not work, our industry also will not survive. The continued use of the US dollar will make us a supermarket economy as soon as this AfCFTA comes into effect. “Making ZiG work should be the consensus or rallying point if we are serious about making wins in the AfCFTA environment. We should try to deal with our macroeconomic environment and address the difficulties in doing business,” said Dr Mano. Government has since maintained a tough stance against illegal foreign currency traders and stewards of arbitrage that have been perpetuating a rapid free fall of the local currency before. According to a survey by CTC, 50 percent of the large companies are not yet ready to compete in the AfCFTA given an albatross around their operations which leaves them with higher priced goods. Mr Tawanda Katsande of CTC, implored local companies to pull up their socks and produce quality and competitively properly priced goods so that locals do not end up preferring foreign cheap substitutes. He called upon relevant authorities and the private sector to ensure a workable macroeconomic environment that lessens the cost of doing production locally, particularly some issues to do with availability and affordability of electricity. “There is going to be increased competition in Zimbabwe because of the US dollar, we are now reluctant about the US dollar while other countries are hungry for it , goods are going to come here even at lower cost so that they access the greenback,” said Mr Katsande. To be competitive, Mr Katsande said local companies should keep in touch with new technologies for efficient production processes that lessen cost of production. He said some of the derelict equipment still being used in industry consume a lot of electricity, while there are now alternatives that use lesser and cheaper electricity. CZI chief economist, Dr Cornelius Dube, said doing business in Zimbabwe is not easy and the macroeconomic environment needed to sorted for local industry to be competitive. “Cost per unit for our local companies is actually higher compared to regional peers because here someone is using inferior type of technology, capital costs are high. “About 18 percent of total overheads are just compliance costs. The regulators try to collect as much as they can from the business,” said Dr Dube. The Competition and Tariff Commission in collaboration with CZI has been conducting awareness workshops on Zimbabwe’s preparedness in terms of the implementation of AfCFTA mainly focusing on tariff offer. *Zimpapers*
2024-05-02 05:01:50 *World Bank Distances Itself From ZiG Project* THE World Bank has subtly distanced itself as the driving force behind introduction of Zimbabwe’s new currency. It says it only offers policy advice to several countries, member states like Zimbabwe who have the prerogative or discretion to choose a currency of their choice. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- This was in response to Reserve Bank governor John Mushayavanhu’s claims that ZiG was the brainchild of the Bretton Woods institution. Mushayavanhu claimed that the World Bank was central to the ZiG initiative through consultancy. Now he is backtracking under pressure saying the World Bank was not the architect of ZiG. On 5 April, the apex bank introduced the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG), the country’s new currency which effectively replaced bond notes and the RTGS. During the introduction of ZiG, Mushayavanhu said the new currency would be backed by foreign currency and gold reserves. Speaking at a post-monetary policy review breakfast meeting in Bulawayo recently, the central bank chief said monetary authorities had limited knowledge about a structured currency. “We didn’t know much about a structured currency. We got a consultant from the World Bank. A lot of the things you’re seeing about the structured currency actually came from the World Bank. “So, if you’re going to blame me, you’re actually blaming the World Bank. Maybe they didn’t advise us properly. And if they did not advise us properly, it’s fine. Let’s refine it.” Research by The NewsHawks revealed that, there was no literature relating to “structured currency” found on either the World Bank or International Monetary Fund websites suggesting that this could be a novel currency. A World Bank spokesperson told The NewsHawks that while the multilateral lender offers policy advice to countries such as Zimbabwe, member states remained autonomous on key policy decisions. “We are committed to supporting the government of Zimbabwe in its efforts towards the country’s economic recovery,” the World Bank said in a written response. “This aligns with our goal to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. This support includes technical expertise and in-depth research and analysis on sectors, such as the latest Zimbabwe Economic Update. It also includes perspectives on policy and development challenges at the request of clients. Governments tailor this advice to their contexts and ultimately make the final decisions on policy implementation in their countries.” The World Bank Group is one of the world’s largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries. Its five institutions — International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, International Development Association, International Financial Corporation, Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency and International Centre for Settlements of Investment Dispute — share a commitment to reducing poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. Contacted to comment on whether or not the IMF had played any role in the introduction of Zimbabwe’s new currency, a spokesperson said the fund was still assessing the impact of the domestic currency on the economy. Unlike the World Bank, a core responsibility of the IMF is monitoring the economic and financial policies of member countries and providing them with policy advice, an activity known as surveillance. As part of this process, which also takes place at the global and regional levels, the IMF identifies potential risks and recommends appropriate policy adjustments to sustain economic growth and promote financial stability. In Zimbabwe, the IMF through its periodic Article IV Consultations has over the years been publishing policy advisory notes on the country’s macroeconomic environment. Issues that have been tackled over the years include inflation and currency regime. “The selection of a particular exchange rate regime is the prerogative of the country authorities, a Washington DC-based IMF communications officer said in a written response to The NewsHawks. “The IMF’s role is primarily to advise on whether the country’s economic circumstances and its policy stance are consistent with the exchange rate regime that has been selected. In this context, we stand ready to advise the Zimbabwe’s authorities on policies to restore macroeconomic stability, but we need time to review the design and implications of the new currency arrangement.” Barely a month after the launch of ZiG, some economic analysts however doubted claims by the central bank that it would be backed by bullion reserves. Imara in its latest research note to investors observed that how the ZiG’s price will be determined after giving legal effect to the new currency was not clear in the MPS (determined by a “refined interbank foreign exchange market”). Statutory Instrument (SI) 60 of 2024 which gives legal effect to the new currency does give some brief insight into the envisaged ZiG pricing, which sounds complicated. According to SI 60, on-going ZiG value shall be “determined by the inflation differential between ZiG and the United States dollar inflation rates and the movement in the price of the basket of precious metals (mainly gold) and valuable minerals held as reserves by the Reserve Bank.” The applicable weights will be determined by the composition of reserve assets. “So the bottom line to all of the above in our view is that the value of the ZiG on any given day will be determined by its supply and demand; it will not be based upon the gold price as it is not convertible into gold from what we can establish,” John Legat, the Imara Asset Management chief executive, wrote in a new research note. “We also doubt that the refined interbank foreign exchange market will be any different to the one we have had up to now; in short it will likely be a controlled rate engineered by the RBZ rather than one set by the commercial banks. That implies that there will be a black market rate in ZiG just as there was in the ZWL and that will be determined by supply and demand. Too much supply and the rate will devalue irrespective of the value of Zimbabwe’s foreign reserves or the gold price. We stand to be corrected on this as it is still early days as yet but at the moment the ZiG looks to be a redenominated form of the ZWL. “At the end of the day however, the success or failure of the ZiG will as always boil down to trust. As we wrote on several occasions last year under the theme of ‘Once bitten, twice shy’, the general public and, importantly, foreign investors have close to zero trust in the Zimbabwean economic authorities for obvious reasons. It will therefore be up to the new Governor to work to rebuild that trust by showing that the ZiG performs as the label on its tin suggests it should. If it doesn’t and ZiG is created to fund roads, for example, or civil servants’ salaries, then the ZiG will go the same way as the ZWD and the ZWL, but rather faster.” *Newshawks*
2024-05-02 05:01:35 *Govt Implements Heritage-Based Education Curriculum For 2024-2030* The Zimbabwe government has issued comprehensive guidelines on implementing the Heritage Based Education 2024 -2030 curriculum ahead of the schools opening for the second term next week.Primary and Secondary Education permanent secretary Moses Mhike issued the guidelines through the Secretary’s Circular Number 4 of 2024 dated April 23 which is directed to education sector stakeholders. These include senior education officials from district to national levels, heads of primary and secondary schools, correspondence and independent colleges, staff associations and unions, responsible authorities, church education secretaries, vice chancellors of universities, principals of teachers’ colleges, polytechnics, vocational training centres, and industrial training colleges. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- The guidelines mark the introduction of the Heritage Based Education curriculum framework 2024-2030 which is aligned to the National Development Strategy 1 and 2 (2021 – 2030) and replaces the Secretary’s Circular number 2 of 2017 which was the guiding document from 2015 to 2022. The Heritage-based education curriculum is expected to present school heads, teachers, and the entire sector with an opportunity to develop professionally and improve learning outcomes. Heritage refers to natural endowments such as flora, fauna, water,mineral, and human resources which the education sector is expected to exploit and produce goods and services useful to the economy. “Our Heritage based Curriculum is, therefore, delivered conscious of the environment it seeks to transform with a mandate of ensuring that pupils acquire skills, values, and attitudes for life and work,” said Mhike. “It integrates and reinforces a strong scientific and technological bias as part of the government’s skills development strategy.”The new curriculum aims to produce highly competent pupils with a Zimbabwean outlook to promote and cherish the national identity, prepare pupils for life and work in an innovation and knowledge-driven economy. It also aims to foster lifelong learning, prepare pupils for participatory citizenship, peace, and sustainable development, and orient pupils for participatory leadership and voluntary service while cherishing the Zimbabwean philosophical orientation of unhu/ubuntu (humanity). A key concept associated with unhu/ubuntu is behaviour and interaction in the context of various social roles. *New Ziana*
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2024-05-01 17:32:53 *Govt Gets Tough: No Radio Licence, No Vehicle Acquisition, Disposal* Cabinet has given the green light to pivotal amendments to the Broadcasting Services Act [Chapter 12:06] in a move set to significantly enhance the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation’s (ZBC) financial standing. These changes will compel every motorist to secure an up-to-date radio licence as a prerequisite for vehicle disposal or the acquisition of motor vehicle insurance. The impending legislation has sparked discontent among drivers, who deem the current law—mandating only a receiver—to be inequitable. A considerable number of motorists, particularly those with second-hand vehicles imported from Japan, find themselves unable to tune into ZBC’s radio frequencies. “The new amendment is an unfair burden on the average motorist,” lamented Lazarus Bhebhe, a local car owner. “My car radio, like many others from Japan, can’t even pick up local stations.” ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- ZBC’s history of rigorous enforcement campaigns, obligating licence purchases regardless of a radio’s functionality or compatibility with Zimbabwean frequencies, has been a source of frustration for many. “It’s absurd to pay for a service that we can’t use,” argued another motorist, Happiness Makomo. Information Minister, Jenfan Muswere, in a post-Cabinet briefing, outlined the rationale behind the additional amendments. “As the nation may recall, the first set of principles for the amendment of the Broadcasting Services Act were approved by Cabinet in 2019,” explained Muswere. “The proposed additional principles are therefore meant to address shortcomings which were identified in the document, which is being drafted. The additional amendments will, among other provisions
ensure gender balance in the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe Board, (provide for) annual applications for broadcasting frequency spectrum licences, broaden and introduce new definitions under Section 38A; and prohibition of the sale of motor vehicle registration licence or motor vehicle insurance cover or policy to a person without a current radio licence or an exemption from ZBC under Section 38B.” It will now be mandatory for all motorists to possess a current radio licence or an exemption from ZBC when engaging in transactions involving vehicle registration or insurance cover, Muswere said. With these revisions, ZBC anticipates a substantial expansion of its revenue base, though at the cost of the motorists’ satisfaction. *Agencies*
2024-05-01 13:07:13 *Mushayavanhu Parties With Tribesmen To Celebrate RBZ Appointment* Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) governor John Mushayavanhu has thrown a party attended by his rural Gutu tribesmen deep down in his Masvingo home village to celebrate his appointment as central bank boss. Mushayavanhu formally announced his appointment in front of relatives, in-laws, the traditional leadership and friends who attended the bash. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- The central bank chief said, somewhat tongue-in-cheek that Mnangagwa, who hails from Masvingo, has broken former President Robert Mugabe’s tradition of appointing people from Manicaland to head the apex bank. Amid cheers from his village folk, Mushayavanhu cited the origins of predecessors Kombo Moyana, Leonard Tsumba, Gideon Gono and John Mangudya as all from Manicaland. “I want to thank the president for putting Masvingo in the limelight, Gutu and Mushayavanhu in the limelight,” he said in Shona. “I came to my home village to thank those who gave birth to me
.your son has been appointed to a top government job.” Mushayavanhu said he will not forget friends he grew up and herded cattle with. The new RBZ chief is Mnangagwa’s first appointment to the helm of the central bank since taking over as president in November 2017. The top ranked banker assumed the job in March this year. His biggest highlight so far is his introduction of the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG), the new gold backed currency touted as the much-awaited solution the country’s drawn-out currency woes. While appointment to RBZ governor should pass as just another promotion to a lofty government position in any country, in Zimbabwe, it is different as the job is closely linked to the source of the troubled nation’s bottomless patronage system. During Gono’s era, the RBZ doled out goodies like Father Christmas to Zanu PF loyalists under the former central bank chief’s infamous quasi-fiscal policies. Part of the largesse was expensive foreign sourced farm machinery glutted on Zanu PF politicians, associated clerics and business leaders under a debt facility whose recipients were later relieved of the financial liabilities under the controversial RBZ Debt Assumption Act. *ZimLive*
2024-05-01 13:06:56 *Govt Gets Tough On Rogue Drivers* GOVERNMENT has said it’s “no longer business as usual” on road traffic accidents as it has tightened screws on investigations following a spike in accidents. Speaking during post-Cabinet briefing yesterday in Harare, Home Affairs minister Kazembe Kazembe said this after investigations revealed that the driver of the bus which was involved in an accident in Beatrice that claimed 15 lives did not have a licence. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- Kazembe said cameras would now be rolled out on roads to stop corruption with breathalysers introduced as well. “We should not allow cars that are not fit for road to pass through roadblocks neither should drivers who are not fit for purpose to pass through a roadblock,” he said. “If a vehicle that has passed through a roadblock you are manning is involved in an accident and investigations reveal that the vehicle was not supposed to pass through that roadblock then you will be accountable. “We are also working to ensure that we equip our police officers to be able to carry out their mandate to account for those driving under the influence of alcohol, drug and substances.” Transport minister Felix Mhona said they investigated the recent Beatrice accident and found out that the driver did not have relevant documents to drive a public service vehicle according to the Road Traffic Act. “The operators licence is going to be cancelled and the driver is going to be charged,” he said. Mhona pleaded with motorists to exercise caution during the Workers' Day holiday. “Motorists are urged to make their holiday journeys safer and smarter by preparing well and making the right choices. This is a special time for our nation, and no holiday should be marred by a road crash that could be easily avoided,” he said. “Government would also like to appeal to operators of public service vehicles and private motorists not to use defective and unroadworthy vehicles. “Operators are also strongly urged to desist from the habit of over-working their drivers which results in driver fatigue. “Drivers should stick to regulated speed limits, as speeding is one of the major causes of fatal road crashes. Driving under the influence of alcohol is a punishable offence and is totally unacceptable.” *AMH*
2024-05-01 13:06:38 *Radio Licences Become Mandatory For Motorists* GOVERNMENT yesterday announced that it is now mandatory for motorists to first purchase a radio licence before acquiring vehicle insurance cover or policy unless there is an exemption from the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC). This follows the approval of amendments to the Broadcasting Services Act by Cabinet including the Media Practitioners’ Bill, which seeks to regulate the operations of the media to ensure professionalism in the sector. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- Cabinet also approved the amendments to the Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC) Act, which seeks to ensure uniformity in the training of media players. In his post-Cabinet briefing yesterday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere, said the proposed media reforms will create a conducive media environment in the country. He said the changes to the Broadcasting Service Act will compel motorists to buy radio licences whenever renewing their vehicle licences thereby boosting the public broadcaster’s revenue streams. Dr Muswere said the amendments to the Broadcasting Services Act follow those that were approved in 2019 but had critical gaps that needed to be fine-tuned including ensuring gender balance in regulating the sector. “The additional amendments will, among other provisions, provide for the following: ensuring gender balance in the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe Board; introduction of annual applications for broadcasting frequency spectrum licences; broadening and introducing new definitions under Section 38A; and prohibition of the sale of motor vehicle registration licence or motor vehicle insurance cover or policy to a person without a current radio licence or an exemption from ZBC under Section 38B,” he said. “In terms of the amended Act, the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation revenue base will be broadened since it will be mandatory for all motorists to have a current radio licence before either disposing of their vehicles or purchasing motor vehicle cover or policy.” Dr Muswere said the amended ZMC Act will among other things standardise training in journalism and mass communication in the country to enhance professionalism. He said the Media Council of Zimbabwe will be established for purposes of regulating the media including its ownership and tenure for Commissioners and the reporting structure. “Foreign ownership of mass media services in Zimbabwe will be limited to promote local content, local business and employment. Zimbabwe Media Commissioners will serve for a one five-year term, which is renewable once, and the Commission shall report to the Minister as provided for in the Constitution,” said Dr Muswere. He said the additional principles are a product of wide consultation with players in the media sector including journalists unions. Dr Muswere said Cabinet also approved the Media Practitioners’ Bill whose thrust will be to professionalise media players defining who becomes a media practitioner. He said the law will allow the independence and co-regulation of the media practitioners. “It will also allow the growth and development of the media industry. The nation is advised that the Media Practitioners’ Bill seeks to create a legal framework that outlines parameters for the regulation of the media as provided for in Section 249(3) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe,” he said. “This entails the creation of a Zimbabwe Media Practitioners Council, which will be responsible for the regulation and enforcement of professionalism among all media practitioners.” Dr Muswere said the Media Council will use delegated power from the ZMC to discipline its members. “The Media Practitioners Council will also deal with conduct and ethics. Media practitioners/councillors will be elected and will include nominees from the Editors’ forum, public media institutions, private media institutions and academic institutions.” *Zimpapers*
2024-05-01 13:06:19 *Mnangagwa Seeks Constitutional Changes, Abandons Third Term Bid* Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa is pushing for an overhaul of the country’s constitution in a move critics say is meant to influence his succession after he abruptly abandoned a bid for a third term. President Mnangagwa, 81, is serving his second and last term after succeeding long time ruler Robert Mugabe following a military coup in 2017, but a loud campaign was already visible for him to run for another term in four years’ time. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- Soon after his controversial election last year, which were condemned by most foreign observers as not credible, the octogenarian leader started hinting on a third term with slogans that suggested he will still be in charge in 2030. On February 21, during celebrations to mark the late Mr Mugabe’s birthday anniversary, Vice President Kembo Mohadi made the first public call by a ruling Zanu-PF official for President Mnangagwa to hang on to power. At the same celebrations, Ezra Chadzamira, a provincial minister, told President Mnangagwa: “We all want you to stay in office beyond your presidential term. You will be there in 2030.” At the time the president said: “I don’t have the power to say (I will stay) as this matter is in the hands of God.” The campaign for the third term appeared to be gaining momentum as shown through sloganeering at ruling party gatherings and factional realignments reminiscent of the Mugabe years where Zanu PF succession battles eventually culminated in the military coup six years ago. After a groundswell of opposition to the third term bid in the security sector and even from within his Zanu PF party, President Mnangagwa announced a week ago that he will no longer stay beyond his constitutionally mandated two terms. His administration is now pushing for constitutional amendments that observers say will roll back major electoral reforms that were initiated following the intervention of the Southern African Development Community in 2008 to end the cycle of disputed polls in Zimbabwe. Some of the proposed constitutional changes would include the transfer of key responsibilities such as voter registration from the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) to a government department. The drawing of electoral boundaries will also be taken away from the independent elections management body and given to a commission appointed by the president, if the constitutional amendments said through as expected. President Mnangagwa’s ruling Zanu PF now controls Parliament’s lower house after controversial recalls of opposition legislators soon after the 2023 polls. An activist, who claimed that he was secretary general of the main opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), was allowed to recall the legislators before the courts were used to block them from contesting their seats. CCC leader Nelson Chamisa was subsequently forced to abandon the party as he protested that it had been hijacked by people pushing for the Zimbabwean leader to run for a third term. Critics say the proposed constitutional changes will give President Mnangagwa the power to choose a successor so that he continues to be influential in Zimbabwe’s politics beyond his rule after failing in his bid to extend his rule beyond the two terms. “(The amendments will) further compromise the independence of ZEC by allowing separate government bodies to perform roles directly linked to the commission’s duties,” the Zimbabwe Electoral Supervisory Network said. “This (will) jeopardise the commission’s stewardship of elections, and ultimately erode citizens’ confidence and trust in electoral processes.” During his reign, President Mnangagwa has faced persistent accusations that he manipulates the law to create a one-party state. In 2021, he pushed through 27 constitutional amendments at one go and these included removing a clause that provided for the election of a vice president as a running mate. It was seen as a way of eliminating Vice President Constantino Chiwenga from the succession race. Retired Gen Chiwenga led the coup that toppled Mr Mugabe as army commander and is said to have presidential ambitions. The constitutional amendments were also used to extend the tenure of senior judges, who are appointed by the president in consultation with the judicial service commission, instead of being subjected to public interviews as was the case before. Observer missions said the judiciary played a key role in deciding the outcome of 2023 elections, which was rejected by his main rival, Mr Chamisa. The Crisis in Zimbabwe Coalition (CiZC) said the proposed constitutional amendments were meant to entrench authoritarianism. “The proposed amendments to the Electoral Act will bring the integrity of Zimbabwe’s elections into further disrepute while perpetuating Zimbabwe’s legitimacy crisis,” CiZC said. “The Coalition notes with utter disdain the continued mutilation of the constitution as part of efforts to entrench political power and authoritarianism. “It is regrettable that instead of the constitution reflecting the will of the people of Zimbabwe, it has now become a tool for power hungry individuals to push their selfish interests.” Lovemore Madhuku, a constitutional law expert, said a third term bid was always a bad idea given Zimbabwe’s history with Mr Mugabe. “This idea of a third term is totally undemocratic and ought not to be pursued,” Professor Madhuku said. “A person is better off in the first 10 years if they are lucky to be in office twice, but to just think of a third term would be very retrogressive in our country because we used to have a constitution that didn’t limit the number of terms that a person could serve as a president.” Mr Mugabe ruled Zimbabwe from its independence from Britain in 1980 until his unceremonious removal from office. President Manangagwa was his closest lieutenant until the last days of his rule where the two had a nasty fallout over succession politics. *the eastafrican*
2024-05-01 13:05:41 *Harare Heads For A Clash With Vendors* THE City of Harare is headed for a fresh confrontation with informal traders after it introduced a set of by-laws to ban vending in the central business district (CBD). Informal traders vowed to fight back as they accused authorities of being divorced from economic realities that drive ordinary people into vending to make a living. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- In recently published by-laws, the local authority said informal traders were not allowed to sell any goods or foodstuffs in the CBD without a valid permit or lease agreement. The municipality also banned pushcarts commonly referred to as zvingoro used at informal trading places like Magaba, Mupedzanhamo and Mbare Musika bus terminus. Samuel Wadzai, Vendors Initiative for Social and Economic Transformation executive director, said the new by-laws were harsh on people who survived on vending. "These laws will definitely have a huge negative impact on people who survive through vending and informal work given the status of the economy,” Wadzai said. “This is not the best time to try to outlaw vending; it's where the majority are surviving [from].” Wadzai, however, said they would engage council with proposals for a win-win situation to protect the livelihoods of people. "Our view is we need by-laws that are humane, by-laws that are in sync with economic realities of the country,” he said. "What is being proposed by Harare City Council is totally unacceptable given the status of our economy. “We will put counter proposals ... we should be working together but the laws should not be there to prevent people from surviving.” Informal traders representative, Wisborn Malaya, said they were not consulted. “As always the challenge we face is that the city fathers just set up laws without consultation. At the end, the laws become more abusive and destructive instead of promotion of order,” he said. "The city should designate strategic places for pushcart traders to operate from in an orderly manner using a four-arrow zoning system. “This will promote order and sanity in the city. It will also allow the council to monitor the licensing of the same without struggle.” Malaya said eradicating informal trading in a country with a high unemployment rate was a futile exercise. "These are the youths who are fighting to earn a living in a legal manner. It's a source of employment and food distribution which just requires smart regulation and not harsh laws,” he said. Council also banned “street”butcheries in the CBD. The council’s by-laws also touch on noise pollution saying it’s an offence. A number of shops and informal traders use hailers and play loud music to advertise their goods. The by-laws outlaw such practice. *AMH*
2024-05-01 12:44:52 *Police On High Alert As Workers Celebrate Labour Day, Warns Unions Against Toyi Toying* ZIMBABWE Republic Police (ZRP) has issued a chilling warning to agitated workers and unions against using the May 1st gatherings for protests. Zimbabwe commemorates Workers Day, Wednesday with several trade unions expected to hold events to mark the day. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- Labour Day comes on the back of workers being disgruntled by meagre salaries which have been decimated by rising inflation. Several government worker unions are demanding payment of a living wage to their members threatening industrial strikes. In a statement, ZRP said the gathering should not degenerate into toyi toying saying its officers are on high alert. “On 01/05/2024 (tomorrow), Zimbabwe will join other nations to commemorate Workers Day throughout the country. Labour organisations and workers from all parts of the country are expected to gather at various venues to commemorate Workers Day. “The ZRP implores all labour organisations and workers to hold the commemorations in a peaceful manner. In the same vein, the Police will not allow any form of toyi –toyi, processions or marching on the streets under the guise of commemorating the Workers Day. “What it means is that members of the public or workers should go straight to the venues or stadia where commemorations for the Workers Day will be taking place,” read the statement. Zimbabwe Congress Trade Unions – which gave birth to opposition politics – will tomorrow converge at Gwanzura Stadium in Highfield where political figures are expected to deliver addresses. *NewZW*
2024-05-01 11:47:52 *CHANGE is COMING: Nelson Chamisa Workers Day Message* - Workers must be allowed to demonstrate, demand their rights - We must resolve broken politics, disputed elections - An unelected Govt is unable, incapable of responding effectively to workers demands https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VacXkvFJJhzd2UoZYF1F Fellow Zimbabweans, TODAY IS WORKERS DAY.. Saluting all the working men and women who toil for the betterment of our beautiful Zimbabwe. You are the living heroes of this great nation. Workers define the collective destiny of a nation. The dignity of any country is in the dignity of its working people. The reality is harsh: we commemorate the workers day when over 80% of the working population is unemployed. Strikingly, 3.5 million youths are unemployed while 7.9 million people live in extreme poverty. The majority live below the poverty datum line of US$575, while average wages at US$275 fall short of meeting basic needs. Punitive tax thresholds, starting at US$100, leave little to support families, where a basket of basic goods is six times higher than the minimum wage. Every worker deserves to thrive in an inclusive Zimbabwe where everyone has access to fair and dignified employment opportunities and a balanced work environment. In a New Great Zimbabwe; 1) Our Citizens government will put decent work agenda at the heart of our labour market policies. 2) We will elevate the TNF from the current talk show status to the prime policy formulation platform. No public policy will be implemented without passing through the TNF. 3) We will immediately grant public sector workers right to collective bargaining by ratifying and domesticating ILO Convention 151. 3) We will reestablish a living minimum wage through social dialogue. 4)We will allow workers to demonstrate and demand their rights. The idea of an inclusive Zimbabwe free from poverty, corruption and oppression is the aspiration of all the citizens of Zimbabwe. In a Zimbabwe free from poverty, corruption and oppression, the fruits of labour shall translate into economic progress for all. Every family shall have the chance to prosper, and the benefits of hard work shall enrich the entire nation. In a corruption-free Zimbabwe, the fruits of labour will fuel economic progress and boost economic prosperity, benefiting all families. Workers deserve the freedom to freely choose a government that serves them, making the resolution of August 2023 disputed elections a crucial step towards recognizing workers' rights. Collectively, we must resolve the broken politics, disputed elections and contested presidential office. An unelected government is unable and incapable of responding effectively to workers demands. For this reason, an unelected and illegitimate administration is indeed a burden on the nation, particularly the workers. We must all be committed to resolving the political crisis and strive towards a new inclusive Zimbabwe where the dreams and aspirations of every working person can be realized. The aspirations of every hardworking individual align with the vision of a great, working and prosperous Zimbabwe. I have good news for you all the Workers of Zimbabwe - CHANGE is COMING! We are doing everything within our power to make this a reality with immediacy and urgency. We will fix the broken!
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2024-05-01 07:01:27 *Schools Brace For Food Insecurity* CHILDREN are still on vacation, but when the thought of the opening of schools crosses the mind of Precious Kandori, a widowed mother of three from Mutare’s Zimta Park, she gets crestfallen. Normally, her major concern has always been money for school uniforms and other necessities, but the El Niño-induced drought has brought her a new worry, food. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- “My child used to be given food, but now they do not get anything. They will be going back to school, but it’s difficult. There is a drought, and everything is not well, and money is scarce! It is difficult to know how I will make ends meet. I do piece jobs, usually cleaning houses for people and others. It is just difficult to get to think how this will come out and end,” Kandori told The NewsHawks. Zimbabwean schools are facing acute food insecurity, with countrywide findings by a new survey showing that the majority of schools do not have active feeding programmes, amid a blighting drought. For Kandori, there is nothing more important than sending her children to school so they can have a better future, despite the challenges. “My hope is that everything goes well for my children. All I want is for them to do well and finish school so they have a better future,” Kandori said. Learners are also frantic about the drought’s effect on their food security. “We do not get food at school, but I will continue going to school despite that, in order for me to have a better future,” said Tadiwanashe Nyarumwe, a Form 1 learner from St Josephs’ High School in Zimta Park, Mutare. A survey by the Amalgamated Rural Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (Artuz) titled Zim Pulse on Universal Access to Education has shown that only 17% of the sampled schools in the country’s 10 provinces have feeding programmes while the remaining 83% have none, due to a lack of resources. In Mashonaland Central province, for instance, there are no active programmes in Shamva, Mountain Darwin and Bindura, with no indication as to when the schemes will be rolled out. In the Midlands province, there are no feeding programmes, according to surveys conducted in Kwekwe, Mberengwa and Gweru, while Masvingo province had programmes in Masvingo Urban only while districts like Gutu and Zaka have none. Matebeleland South province registered programmes in Beitbridge, while Matobo has none, while in Matabeleland North there was a programme in Hwange, while there are none in Victoria Falls, Lupane and Nkayi. “Providing nutrition for learners can contribute towards better outcomes for them in education as well as narrow the gap between disadvantaged learners and their more privileged counterparts. School feeding is a social safety net that even contributes to improving the health of learners,” Artuz said. “Interviews held with teachers whose learners have benefitted from schools’ feeding programmes in the past support the theory that improved nutrition can contribute towards the ability to concentrate. School heads also testified to the fact that the programmes can also draw more children to school because they will be guaranteed one meal a day.” “Interviews reviewed that in schools where the programme is successful, the parents contribute the food items that are used. Administrators through interviews stated that schools have no money to buy food and pay the cooks. Lack of cooking units, kitchen utensils, energy sources and manpower were mentioned as major stumbling blocks for the feeding scheme.” Home-Grown Feeding Programme The government, however, says the school feeding programme is already ongoing through the Home-Grown Feeding Programme (HGSFP) designed for learners like Nyarumwe. It is a system where the community produces a wide variety of food crops to be used in preparing school meals for learners such as sugar beans, vegetables, beans, potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots and fish. “The schools’ feeding programme is currently ongoing. We have the Home-grown-based system, whereby a school may have its own resources, for example, poultry, maize and others, which will be used to feed learners at schools. Government also chips in to provide some of the resources,” Taungana Ndoro, the director of information in the ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, told The NewsHawks. “Some schools provide this food to orphans and vulnerable children and, in some instances, some schools that are well resourced provide meals for all the children.” Added Ndoro: “The home-based feeding programme has been very successful, with or without the El Niño weather condition. In fact, it has encouraged children to come to school because at least they will be guaranteed a hot meal. We are going to make sure that the project continues to help learners in schools.” However, Rob Chere, the Artuz secretary-general, countered Ndoro’s comments, arguing that the feeding programme has not been successful, due to a shortage of resources. “Learners are having a hard time as they are coming from homes hungry and not getting anything when they get to school. We have had cases of a student that fainted in Hurungwe and we would not want the same to happen. We would like our learners to enjoy their right to education,” Chere said. “We urge government to promote the growing of food by schools which will help them feed students on their own. When we last had a meeting with the Education minister, schools were yet to receive resources from the government for the feeding programme. This year, no school has received resources for the programme between January and March. So it is a lie to assume that the Home-Grown Feeding Programme has been a success.” More than 2.7 million Zimbabweans face food insecurity in 2024, with projections by the United Nations Children Education Fund estimating that a quarter of all children are suffering from stunting or wasting. Wasting has been on the rise of late, significantly increasing during the lean season of 2022–2023, from 4.5% in 2020 to 7.2% in 2022, the highest prevalence in the last 15 years. Stunting and wasting prevalence has been pegged at 26% and 4% respectively. On 3 April, President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared a state of national disaster due to drought, with the country requiring in excess of US$2 billion towards various interventions. Independent organisations have however been helping young learners from underprivileged families access food in the face of drought. For instance, the Educate Zimbabwe’s Children (EZC) organisation has introduced a feeding programme to nine primary schools and seven ECD (early childhood development) centres in Makonde district, feeding over 5 000 children every day. Each child is given half a litre of traditional Zimbabwean porridge-based drink called mahewu (a mix of maize-meal, sorghum, milk solids, lactic acid and sugar) fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, sourced from a local supplier using maize from small farm holdings. In Murewa, the Orphan Guardian Angel (OGA), an organisation run by United States-based Zimbabwean nurse Mollin Ziwira, has also been providing meals to young people in rural communities who are undergoing a sewing training programme. *Newshawks*
2024-05-01 07:01:15 *Analysts Castigate CZI Of Undermining Government Policies* Analysts have levelled severe criticisms against the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industry (CZI), alleging that the organization’s actions undermine Government’s policies and contribute to economic instability. The criticism comes in the wake of statements attributed to CZI’s Chief Executive Officer, Sekai Kuvarika, alleging that the Government relies excessively on police enforcement rather than implementing effective policies for long-term economic prosperity. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- In an exclusive interview with this publication, analyst Charity Mhasva provided insight into CZI’s alleged involvement in supplying USD to the black market. “The CZI has been fronting by supplying USD float to the black market. Kuvarika’s statement appears to be a defensive move to safeguard the organization’s interests,” Mhasva said Mhasva further alleged that CZI had connections to illegal forex dealers, and that those who have been arrested should face the wrath of the law. “CZI had ties to illegal forex dealers, fuelling the black-market exchange rate. Those that were involved and were arrested should face the full force of the law to deter similar behaviour in the future,” she asserted Another analyst, Terrence Chapwanya, criticized CZI’s pricing policies, emphasizing their detrimental impact on Zimbabwe’s manufacturing sector. “CZI’s preference for pricing goods in USD, rather than local currency, has significantly contributed to the industry’s decline. The organization prioritizes its interests over national economic stability, undermining government’s efforts to promote local currency usage and strengthen the economy,” he remarked The allegations against CZI have sparked concerns among citizens, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability within the industrial sector. The consensus regards the importance of aligning industrial practices with Government initiatives which are aimed at fostering sustainable economic development. *hararepost*
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2024-05-01 06:59:13 *New ZiG Currency Met With Public Caution & Bank Shortages* The Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) bank notes and coins were rolled out yesterday with several banks failing to satisfy demand while the general public expressed caution over the new currency introduced by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) early last month. A snap survey conducted by NewsDay yesterday indicated that the majority of banks had no cash fuelling scepticism among the banking public which had waited for close to a month for the notes and coins. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- NewsDay established that banks were only issuing coins and ZIG10 notes. The highest denomination is ZiG200. Farmers and traders at the populous Mbare Market in Harare said they were anxiously waiting for the ZiG notes and coins. “We have not yet transacted using the ZiG as we wait for those with bank accounts to withdraw the money and use it when transacting with us,” a vendor said. A farmer, however, said the notes and coins would bring convenience to the market. “We have been struggling with change to an extent where we were giving people some extra produce to compensate for cents,” he said. “We are, however, yet to see how this is going to play but I believe it is going to be helpful.” Zimbabweans who failed to access the ZiG from automated teller machines expressed concern over the new currency, highlighting trust issues over its value. “I haven’t seen the new currency on the streets yet, and as for me it will take time for me to adjust. I do not think I will accept the ZiG if I am given it as change on the commuter omnibus,” one woman said. Bankers Association of Zimbabwe president Lawrence Nyazema said the banks received the notes and coins yesterday. “They (RBZ) said the notes and coins are coming, for now let us use what we have been using until we have the money,” he said. Nyazema cautioned against panic among the transacting public over the recently released currency. “We do not need to go back to the situation where we were with the currency losing value over speculative motives,” he said. The ZiG replaces the Zimdollar that had continually lost value since its reintroduction by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in 2019. Authorities have said the ZiG is backed by gold and foreign currency reserves. The ZiG is currently trading at a rate of 14:00 against US$1. In a statement after the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, RBZ governor John Mushayavanhu said the committee had noted that the 2024 Monetary Policy Statement (MPS) was well received by the market. “Preliminary indications since the announcement of the MPS show that the markets have been fairly stable. “In this regard, the MPC affirmed its commitment to the consolidation of these positive sentiments and ensure a quick restoration of confidence, trust and anchoring of inflation expectations,” he said. “The MPC will proactively review the monetary policy measures in line with exchange rate and inflation developments,” he said. Mushayavanhu said the MPC directed RBZ to ensure there is effective communication on the new structured currency, ZiG, which cover the whole country to ensure there is financial inclusion. “The Reserve Bank was also directed to ensure that, at all times, any growth in reserve money is fully covered by reserves, in the form of gold, other precious minerals and foreign currency balances in the Reserve Bank’s nostro account,” he said. *AMH*
2024-05-01 06:59:01 *Workers’ Day Turned Into ‘Slave Day’* UNIONS representing workers across the country have concurred that Workers’ Day has turned into “Slave Day commemorations” because of poor pay and working conditions. May 1 was first designated as an international labour day by the International Socialist Congress in 1889, and it was subsequently made a holiday. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- In separate interviews, workers’ unions said the commemorations had lost their yesteryear lustre as employees live from hand to mouth. Zimbabwe Congress for Trade Unions (ZCTU) national organiser, Michael Kandukutu, said workers had nothing to celebrate. “We used to have Workers Day celebrations maybe 15 years ago but now it is just commemorations of employees’ problems. It is a lamentation day for workers’ problems,” Kandukutu said. “Working has failed to transform the lives of workers. We have workers who cannot afford what they are producing.” Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe secretary-general Raymond Majongwe said the government had abandoned teachers. “As far as we are concerned salaries have gone down, conditions of service have not improved and it’s indeed an insult to us,” he said “As far as we are concerned, May Day is a day we are supposed to celebrate, but we cannot celebrate slavery.” Zimbabwe Union of Journalists secretary-general Perfect Hlongwane said scribes had been turned into beggars. “It’s a pity that journalists should be celebrating Workers Day, a day we look back and take stock or what has been achieved but if you do a scan of the environment or what is obtaining on the ground you will realise that journalists are some of the people who are least paid in the country,” Hlongwane said. “This has taken away professionalism that we are supposed to see in the sector. It is sad that nothing is being done to fix the issue of remuneration.” Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions chairperson, David Dzatsunga, said government workers had become a laughing stock. “In other countries when you are in public service, working for the government you are up there in terms of earnings but in Zimbabwe it’s different, we have become a laughing stock,” Dzatsunga said. Zimbabwe Association for Doctors for Human Rights (ZADHR) said: “In commemorating this day, ZADHR laments the state of our public health delivery system and the exposure of health professionals to harm in their line of duty. “For years, health workers in Zimbabwe have clamoured for a healthy service and healthy workplace that promote and protect their rights through strengthening infection control protocols and associated provisions for infection control such as personal protective equipment.” The Federation of Zimbabwe Educators Unions (FOZEU) urged unions to forge a united front in the fight for better wages for all workers. “FOZEU, therefore, calls for the immediate creation of a viable alternative platform genuinely representing the hopes and aspirations of workers. Progressive unions in and outside the ZCTU are urged to come together and create a genuine labour centre for the workers of Zimbabwe and give the workers another fighting chance,” FOZEU said. *AMH*
2024-05-01 04:38:30 *Parents Concerned As Schools Insist On Exclusive USD Fees Over ZiG* Government has warned public and private schools to desist from charging school fees exclusively in United States dollars or pegging at illegal black market rates. This comes on the back of complaints by parents who say schools have pegged school fees in forex, with no option to pay at the prevailing Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) rate. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- This is in variance with President Mnangagwa’s call for Zimbabweans to embrace and defend the gold-backed local currency, which has been embraced by manufacturers. A survey conducted by The Herald at various schools showed that most were only accepting US dollar payments. In cases where the ZiG was accepted, it was pegged using the black market rate. However, some public and mission schools are accepting part of the fees in US dollars with the rest being paid in local currency. Schools will open for the second term on Tuesday next week and parents say they want to be allowed to pay using any currency that they are comfortable with. The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) warned school heads against breaching the country’s laws. “As we approach a new term, we are only now beginning to receive such complaints from parents. It’s only a handful of complaints to date but we are anticipating more such as we move closer and closer to schools opening. “Our approach is to engage the school authorities first and foremost and almost always the schools immediately comply. We only have had two cases in the past where we were forced to take drastic action of freezing accounts (one private school and one university), but that’s something that we want to avoid if we can as this prejudices the learners and parents whom we want to protect. “We are considering recommending that school heads be held personally liable for such breaches. That would be more effective deterrence. For now, we urge the public to continue bringing such breaches of the law to the FIU,” said the FIU director, Mr Oliver Chiperesa. While the cases are still few and far between, parents with learners at Chemhanza High School in Hwedza said the schools had explicitly told them that they would only accept fees in US dollars. Westminster International School, a private school in Harare, has pegged fees at a rate of ZiG23 per dollar, leaving parents with no option but to pay in foreign currency. Others, particularly private and mission-run schools, said they were waiting for the owners of the schools to make pronouncements on the currency they would be accepting before issuing invoices to parents. “I feel that schools are taking advantage of the situation which was prevailing with the RTGS, where inflation was running out of control. They now want us to continue paying in US dollars, which benefits them but not every parent gets paid in forex so they should give us an option to pay in ZiG,” said one parent who preferred anonymity. Another parent said pegging school fees at a rate that is double the prevailing bank rate was just as good as forcing them to pay in foreign currency. Ministry of Primary and Secondary School spokesperson Mr Taungana Ndoro said the Government’s position on school fees payment had not changed. “In accordance with the Secretary’s Circular No. 10 of 2022, Government policy position is that school fees must be paid in Zimbabwean currency, which of course is now called ZIG. No school, therefore, must force any parent to pay fees or levies exclusively in foreign currency since parents are free to pay in a currency of their choice, as Zimbabwe operates under a multi-currency regime,” he said. Government recently introduced the ZiG structured currency which started circulating yesterday. The new currency, which is backed by gold and cash reserves, is pegged at 13,56.16 to the United States dollar. RBZ governor Dr John Mushayavanhu last week said everything was in place for a seamless distribution of the new currency and set withdrawal limits for individuals at ZiG3 000, corporates at ZiG30 000, schools, hospitals, clinics, local authorities ZiG50 000 and Government ministries and departments limits were set at ZiG300 000. Government has reiterated that the new currency will not lose its value as it is backed by strong macroeconomic fundamentals prevailing in the economy. Mr Ndoro said schools had no reason to deny parents to pay using a currency of their choice. “If fees are pegged in foreign currency for value preservation, parents must pay school fees in local currency at the prevailing interbank rate of the day the transaction is made,” he added. Most parents receive a large part of their salaries in local currency and even those who are assisted by their employers to pay school fees, get the allowances mostly in local currency. *Zimpapers*
2024-05-01 04:38:18 *Zimbabwe's ZiG Is The World's Newest Currency, It's Latest Attempt To Resolve A Money Crisis* Zimbabwe on Tuesday started circulating a new currency to replace one that has been battered by depreciation and often outright rejection by the people. The ZiG was introduced electronically in early April, but people are now able to use banknotes and coins. It’s the southern African country’s latest attempt to halt a long-running currency crisis underlining its persistent economic troubles. The government had previously floated various ideas to replace the Zimbabwe dollar, including introducing gold coins to stem inflation and even trying out a digital currency. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- Since it was launched electronically on April 5, the ZiG — short for Zimbabwe Gold and backed by the country’s gold reserves — appears to be heading down the same path of mistrust, with some government departments refusing to accept it. The ZiG is the sixth currency Zimbabwe has used since the spectacular 2009 collapse of the Zimbabwe dollar amid hyperinflation of 5 billion percent, one of the world’s worst currency crashes to date. That set off a chaotic series of events: first the U.S. dollar was allowed as legal tender, then banned, then unbanned. A new “bond note” became legal tender, the Zimbabwe dollar was reintroduced before the gold coins and digital currency were tried. However, nothing brought any currency stability and the U.S. dollar remains the most trusted for ordinary Zimbabweans. As the shiny new ZiG banknotes hit the streets, the mistrust was evident. Kudzanayi Mande, a vegetable trader at the crowded Mbare market in the capital of Harare, said she would rather forgo a sale than accept the ZiG. She was confused, the 56-year-old said. “Already there is an official exchange rate and a depreciated black market rate, so I will wait a bit to see what its real value is,” she said. “The U.S. dollar is still a safer bet.” The government has allowed some businesses, such as gas stations, to refuse to accept the ZiG in favor of U.S. dollars. Some departments, like the office that issues and renews passports, accept only U.S. dollars. At the same time, other businesses are being ordered to only use the ZiG, and face punishment if they don’t. “The government prints the money so it should be the first to accept the currency and everyone else will follow,” said Gift Mugano, an economics professor at South Africa’s Durban University of Technology. “Otherwise it is behaving like someone who feeds on takeaways but wants others to eat the food they cook,” Mugano said. “It becomes suspicious.” Many in Zimbabwe still remember when a 100 trillion Zimbabwe dollar banknote was printed in 2009 at the height of the hyperinflation to keep up with spiraling prices. At one point, a loaf of bread cost more than 500 million Zimbabwe dollars. Prices would change from when customers walked into a grocery store to when they lined up to pay at the cash register. Restaurants stopped displaying prices on menus as they would go up over the course of a dinner. People lugged around bags stuffed with banknotes. Savings and pensions became worthless. Through the ordeals, the greenback remained precious — and highly valued on the black market. Across Zimbabwe, the U.S. dollar is still widely used, from paying rent and school fees to buying groceries. Many take their local currency earnings to the black market to exchange for dollars since banks don’t give out U.S. dollars. Some people stash their U.S. dollars at home. The government of President Emmerson Mnangagwa has taken a hard-line approach — dozens of black market currency dealers were arrested and have been in pretrial detention for weeks, accused of trying to undermine the new currency. After the ZiG was introduced electronically, bank accounts of some businesses were frozen, accused by the government of rejecting the new currency. Authorities say they have faith in the ZiG because it’s backed by the country’s gold reserves. Mnangagwa said in a speech on Monday it was a matter of “our national identity and dignity” to trust the ZiG. Though some hopeful Zimbabweans headed for the banks Tuesday to get their hands on the new currency, many remained skeptical after two decades of turmoil. An online news outlet published a political cartoon showing a policeman struggling to hold up a collapsing house with the word ZiG on it. The caption: “World’s first police backed currency.” *apnews*
2024-05-01 04:38:00 *Chamisa Vows Immediate Action Against Election Dispute & Economic Crisis* FORMER Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Nelson Chamisa has declared that he is not going to wait for the 2028 harmonised elections to tackle issues plaguing the nation. Chamisa dismissed the results of the August 2023 presidential elections and has since refused to acknowledge President Emmerson Mnangagwa who was declared winner after the chaotic polls. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- Several election observer missions, which were in Zimbabwe before, during and after the plebiscite, said the polls were not free, fair and credible. Chamisa later ditched the CCC after Sengezo Tshabangu, who claimed to be the party’s interim secretary-general, recalled several legislators linked to the former leader. Speaking on his newly-launched Chamisa News Channel, Chamisa said he was not going to wait for the 2028 elections to fix the problems that are bedevilling the country. “I know you have questions on when are we going to fix the 2023 error. We are not going to wait for 2028; we are fixing the problem right now. Let’s be united, love and help each other, together we will conquer. Our God is in it, God bless you,” Chamisa said. The opposition leader left his party after claiming that it had been hijacked by proxies of Mnangagwa’s ruling Zanu PF party. Chamisa also commented for the first time on the recently introduced Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency asking his followers their experiences after its launch this month. “Have you started receiving the ZiGs, I wish you all the best,” he said. The ZiG, introduced earlier this month, is trading at around 17ZiG to the US$1 on the parallel market, although government’s official exchange rate is 13ZiG to the US dollar. Most prices of basic goods have increased and the ripple effects of the cost-of-living crisis are being felt all over. Employees have witnessed their salaries being overtaken by prices, with typical wage increments now worthless. This has also created challenges for businesses to match wages with rising inflation. The Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency on Monday said the food poverty line for one person rose by 51,31% to ZiG424,95 this month, amid an acceleration in the annual inflation rate for April to 57,5%. Last week, Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe governor John Mushayavanhu said authorities considered using cryptocurrency as one of four options to deal with the rapid depreciation of the Zimdollar. *AMH*
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2024-04-30 19:48:28 *Exhumed War Heroes’ Remains Spend 11 Years At Mt Darwin Mortuary* The Zimbabwe Fallen Heroes’ Trust, an organisation involved in the exhumation and reburial of war veterans and victims, has asked the Government for at least US$2 000 for the reburial of 10 exhumed bodies of war casualties that have been kept at Mt Darwin District Hospital since 2014. Anyway Chinyani, the Trust’s national co-ordinator, said the war victims needed a decent burial rather than keeping them in the cold mortuary. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- “It has been nearly 11 years now since we took the remains of those comrades to that mortuary. “The government has been ignoring our plea for financial assistance over all those years,” said Chinyani. He said there were many more fallen war heroes still in the shallow and mass graves across the country whose spirits were visiting him and other war veterans asking for decent burials. “We cannot exhume them if the situation is like this. “We will not be able to bury them,” he added. Sam Parirenyatwa, Zimbabwe National War Veterans Association provincial chair said the problem was with parliamentarians. He said while soliciting for votes, the parliamentarians sweet talked them, using them to mobilise support and promising them an improved welfare once they assumed office. “One would wonder what really happens when one ascends to parliament. All promises will be breached,” he said. He also pleaded with treasury to avail funds to the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage for the upkeep of districts and provincial heroes’ acres. Parirenyatwa said many war veterans no longer wanted to be buried at these shrines because of the neglect they suffered. Access roads to most of these heroes’ acres were also inaccessible, while there was also very little or no overnight security. Most graves at these provincial and district heroes’ acres were just heaps of compacted soil without cement or bricks. Over the years, some of the graves have collapsed, leaving bereaved families with no other option but to build the graves of their loved ones on their own. Mazowe district war veterans’ chair, Ephanos Mudzimunye, however, believes that the Constitution must clearly point out that war veterans should also be in Parliament, so that they could represent themselves. He said while women and youths were given a quota in Parliament, the same should have applied to war veterans. The reason behind the seemingly neglect of war veterans and their interests had also been due to the composition of Parliament, which comprises pro-American parliamentarians from opposition parties, who “actually see us as an insane cabal”. Aaron Chinogurei, also known as Teddy Hondo, during the liberation struggle, said the young people in parliament knew nothing about how war veterans brought out this country out of colonial bondage. “And what would you expect from them?” He said there must also be a Statutory Instrument to protect surviving and fallen heroes across the country. He appealed to President Emmerson Mnangagwa to facilitate the provision of financial assistance to the National Monuments and Museums for the purposes of maintaining district and provincial heroes’ acres. Chinyani also asked the President to remember his fellow comrades from the liberation struggle. There were a lot of mass graves of Zimbabwean war victims across the SADC region, including at Chimoio, Tembwe and Nyadzonia. These comrades, he said, were causing chaos within the vicinity of their graves. “Flags are being torn everyday and security is being bashed daily by these angry and apoplectic comrades, who also want to come back home and get decent burial in the land they fought for,” he said. *New Ziana*
2024-04-30 14:24:07 *Chiwenga Misleads Nation On Origins Of Bond Notes* VICE-PRESIDENT Constantino Chiwenga left the nation in a state of disbelief a few days ago as he brazenly misled people, rewriting Zimbabwe’s well-documented monetary history, claiming the now abandoned bond note was a Rhodesian currency initiative. Officially opening the International Business Conference at the just-ended Zimbabwe International Trade Fair in Bulawayo on Thursday, Chiwenga said: “The ZiG is expected to provide a lasting solution to hindering inflation expectations which is critical for sustained price and exchange rate stability in the economy. Given these boundless benefits, I therefore call on the public, the private sectors who are in the majority here, including the households, labour and businesses, civic society and the international community to fully embrace and support the Zimbabwe Gold currency.” ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- Chiwenga added: “We have done away with the bond which we had inherited from the time of Rhodesia. After declaring UDI, they were given sanctions by the United Nations Security Council. That’s why they came with the bond. The bond did not come with Zimbabwe. It came with Rhodesia. It was Rhodesia bond that you used to see. So the bond is away we now have our Zimbabwe currency. Support it.” Checks on Zimbabwe’s well-documented monetary history show this is clearly untrue and misleading. Rhodesia did not have bond notes, but pounds and then dollars. There was no currency called bond notes between 1965 and 1980 in Rhodesia. Or at any given time prior to that for that matter. Bond notes were first introduced in Zimbabwe in May 2016 by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe and they died on 5 April 2024. The Zimbabwe dollar was introduced in 1980 and it was abandoned in 2009 in the aftermath of the economic meltdown and hyperinflation. There have been six variations of the local currency which were buffeted by exchange rate volatility and runaway inflation, exacerbated by a protracted economic crisis and macro-economic instability. The local unit was then demonitised in 2015. The Zimdollar was later revived in 2019 after 10 years, but collapsed earlier this month when the new currency, ZiG, was introduced on 8 April 2024, marking its end. ZiG will run in a multi-currency system which has been legislated until 2030. The currency of Rhodesia after the Unilateral Declaration of Independence on 11 November 1965 by Prime Minister Ian Smith was the Rhodesian pound. The Rhodesian pound was sub-divided into 20 shillings (100 cents). A shilling was equal to 12 pence. And a pound was therefore 240 pence. On 17 February 1970, the Reserve Bank of Rhodesia introduced new bank notes in denominations of 1, 2 and 10 dollars, less than a month before the declaration of a republic on 2 March 1970 after a major diplomatic fallout with Britain over majority rule in the British colony that was reeling from a fiercely raging civil war, or liberation struggle for blacks dominated by white colonial settlers since 1890. And 5-dollar notes were added into the market in 1972. The Rhodesia dollar replaced the Rhodesian pound at a rate of 2 dollars to 1 pound (1RP: R$2). The dollar proved to be a strong and resilient currency, as it traded at parity with the pound sterling. However, between 1970 and 1980 the Rhodesian dollar was not a fully convertible currency, although it was used in South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia and other countries. Its exchange rate was therefore not a reflection of Rhodesia’s underlying macro-economic fundamentals. The Reserve Bank of Rhodesia replaced the Bank of Rhodesia and Nyasaland on 1 June 1965 and made the pound divisible into 20 shillings or 100 cents. In 1980, when conversion was done the Zimbabwe dollar was valued at 1.47 United States dollars, which means it was stronger as it was at par with the British pound sterling. Zimbabwe’s brief monetary history: – British currency, 1888-1940; – South African currency, 1920-1940; – Southern Rhodesia currency, 1940-1956; – Rhodesia and Nyasaland currency, 1956-1964; – Rhodesian Pound = (Rhodesia and Nyasaland pound) = 20 shillings = 240 Pence, 1964-1970; – Rhodesia dollar = (0.50 Rhodesia pound) 100 cents, 1970-1980; and – Zimbabwe dollar = (100 cents), 1980 = 1 pound or US$1.47. *Newshawks*
2024-04-30 11:13:17 *Food Prices Rise As Inflation Swells* THE Food Poverty Line (FPL) for one person rose by 51,31% to ZiG424,95 this month, amid an acceleration in the annual inflation rate for April to 57,5%. According to the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat), a person required at least ZWL701 236,89 for the month of March to buy food. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- Since the Zimbabwe dollar (ZWL), was dropped for the ZiG (Zimbabwe Gold) currency on April 5, the March FPL translates to ZiG280,49 per person, showing an increase in the April figure. ZimStat said the US dollar based monthly inflation rate gained 0,6 percentage point to 0,8% for April, from March. The US dollar based annual inflation rate was recorded at 3,2% for the month, with no March comparison given. “Food Poverty Line (FPL) for one person in April 2024 was ZiG 424,95,” ZimStat acting director-general Aluwsio Mukavhi said, in the announcement of the April food and inflation statistics yesterday. “Food Poverty Line represents the amount of money that an individual afford a daily minimum energy intake of 2,100 calories. ZimStat uses the consumer basket for an individual deemed to be poor to calculate the poverty line.” In terms of the Total Consumption Poverty Line, this was recorded at ZiG650,26 for the month of April. This was from ZWL$916 225,50, in March, converting to ZiG366,49 showing a big jump in the amount of money needed for one not to be deemed poor. “The Total Consumption Poverty Line for one person in April 2024 was ZiG650,26. The Total Consumption Poverty Line is derived by adding the non-food consumption expenditures of an individual below the FPL,” Mukavhi said. “The year-on-year inflation rate for April 2024, as measured by the all-items Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased to 57,5%. The month-on-month inflation rate for April was 2,9%, shedding 2 percentage points on March 2024 rate of 4,9%.” The annual inflation rate in March was 55,3%. “For April 2024, the CPI for food and non-alcoholic beverages had the highest contribution to the month-on-month change in index (inflation rate) of 1,3%, followed by housing, water, electricity, gas and others. Fuels with a contribution of 1.0%,” Mukavhi said. He said that there would be no month-on-month and year-on-year inflation rate using the ZiG this month, as it would be computed next month. Thus, the local currency component of the inflation and poverty statistics used were ZWL. “The ZiG Consumer Price Index in April 2024 was 100. In April 2024, Zimbabwe introduced the ZiG currency. Therefore, the index reference for the Consumer Price Index for the ZiG currency is April 2024. This means during April 2024, there are no month-on-month and year-on-year inflation rates,” Mukavhi said. “The month-on-month inflation rate for the ZiG currency will be computed starting in May 2024 and the year-on-year inflation rate will be computed in April 2025, according to the international recommended methods.” *AMH*
2024-04-30 10:05:55 *LEAD Denies Claims Party Leader Masarira Was Poisoned* Labour, Economists and African Democrats (LEAD) has refuted claims that party leader Linda Masarira was poisoned after she was hospitalised last Tuesday at a local Harare hospital. Social media was awash with speculation the firebrand politician was taken ill due to suspected poisoning. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- LEAD national spokesperson Everjoy Chidindi dismissed the rumours, saying the opposition leader suffered a bout of pneumonia and an asthma attack. Chidindi confirmed Masarira was discharged last Friday and is recovering at home. “She (Masarira) was discharged from hospital on Friday after suffering from severe pneumonia and an asthma attack on Tuesday last week. “There was no case of poison and these are just speculative unfounded claims from a group of people without information. “Friends, family and other political parties across the political divide have offered a lot of moral support and she is truly humbled to be receive plenty of healing mercies,” said Chidindi. News of Masarira taken ill invited wishes for her quick recovery from among political allies and foes. *ZimLive*
2024-04-30 10:05:43 *ZimStat Introduces Three Sets Of Inflation Figures With New Currency* The Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat) has begun reporting three sets of inflation figures following the introduction of the new currency, Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG), which was introduced by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe earlier this month. Starting this month, inflation figures will be reported in the weighted format, thereafter in US dollar and ZiG figures separately. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- Zimbabwe introduced ZiG on April 5, 2024, as part of measures announced in the monetary policy statement to address several issues facing the economy, chief among them exchange rate volatility and rapid inflation increases. The southern African nation had reintroduced its domestic currency in 2019 after a 10-year pause occasioned by hyperinflation. Between February 2009 and February 2019, the country used a basket of currencies dominated by the greenback. “Going forward from the April price statistics, the country will publish three price indices with the ZiG index, US dollars Index and the Blended Index. This month we do not have a ZiG price index because it has been rebased according to international practice,” the agency reported. ZimStat revealed the new inflation reporting format during a press conference for the presentation of the April 2024 month-on-month and year-on-year inflation figures. The US dollar Consumer Price Index (CPI) was 106,76 in April and 105,96 in March 2024. Zimbabwe’s US dollar month-on-month inflation rate was 0,8 percent in April 2024, gaining 0,6 percentage points on the March 2024 rate of 0,2 percent. “This means that prices as measured by the all-items USD CPI, increased by an average of 0,8 percent between March 2024 and April 2024,” Zimstats said. In the sector month-on-month food and non-alcoholic beverages inflation rate was -0,3 percent in April 2024, shedding 0,4 percentage points on the March 2024 rate of 0,1 percent, whilst the April 2024 month-on-month non-food inflation rate was 1,2 percent, gaining 1,0 percentage points on the March 2024 rate of 0,2 percent. The US dollar year-on-year inflation rate for April 2024 as measured by the all-items Consumer Price Index (CPI), was 3,2 percent. “This means that prices as measured by the all-items CPI, increased by an average of 3,2 percent between April 2023 and April 2024 giving us a mean month-on-month inflation rate for the period January to April 2024 of 0,1 percent,” the agency stated. According to the latest data, the weighted month-on-month inflation rate was 2,9 percent in April 2024, shedding 2,0 percentage points on the March 2024 rate of 4,9 percent. This means that prices as measured by the all-items CPI, increased by an average of 2,9 percent between March 2024 and April 2024. “The month-on-month Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages inflation rate was 4,2 percent in April 2024, shedding 3,9 percentage points on the March 2024 rate of 8,1 percent. The April 2024 month-on-month non-food inflation rate was 2,4 percent, shedding 0,6 percentage points on the March 2024 rate of 3,0 percent,” ZimStat said. The year-on-year inflation rate for April 2024 as measured by the all-items CPI, was 57,5 percent, meaning that prices as measured by the all-items CPI, increased by an average of 57,5 percent between April 2023 and April 2024. As a result, the weighted inflation mean month-on-month inflation rate for the period January to April 2024 was 4,9 percent. With the new currency less than a month old, ZimStat could not compute the ZiG-based inflation figures. “The ZiG CPI in April 2024 was 100,00. In April 2024, Zimbabwe introduced the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency. Therefore, the index reference for the CPI for the ZiG currency is April 2024. This means during the month of April 2024, there is no month-on-month and year-on-year inflation rates. “The month-on-month inflation rate for the ZiG currency will be computed starting in May 2024 and going forward and year-on-year inflation rate will be computed in April 2025 and going forward according to the international recommended methods,” said Zimstats *Zimpapers*
2024-04-30 10:05:31 *Mutapa Fund Urged To Uphold Transparency, Good Governance* AN expert says the Mutapa Investment Fund (MIF) will uphold transparency and good governance as it kicks off operations if the unit is to deliver meaningful dividends for the general citizenry. MIF, formerly known as the Sovereign Wealth Fund of Zimbabwe is a purse formulated by the Sovereign Wealth Fund Act (Chapter 22:20), which has about 20 parastatals under its purview. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- It was renamed after the re-election of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, doing so by using Statutory Instrument 156 of 2023. Experts believe that the MIF will go a long way to create a capital powerhouse which will open up low-cost financial streams for local companies in a move which will unlock thousands of jobs among other benefits. Speaking to NewZimbabwe.com recently, financial analyst Owen Mavengere said the MIF must adopt a culture of transparency from the word go. “It is important that the MIF publishes updates on the fund’s activities, decisions, and the financial health of its entities. This could include annual reports, press releases, and public meetings. “They must also establish and strengthen governance structures to ensure ethical management practices, reduce corruption, and manage conflicts of interest effectively. Similar to the fund itself, its entities should have equally competent board members selected on the basis of their integrity and competence while ensuring diversity,” he said. Mavengere also urged the fund to implement and communicate performance metrics for all entities to demonstrate progress to the public and employ such data as a follow-up to the stakeholder engagement, these metrics should be communicated so that the public can see improvement. “It is also key for the MIF to develop and begin implementation of a detailed strategic plan that addresses identified challenges, sets clear objectives, and outlines measurable goals for enhancing profitability and low hanging fruits can be picked focusing on high impact areas,” he said. He added that dialogue must be initiated with key stakeholders including employees, government officials, lenders, and creditors, and key stakeholders including the public to build trust and ensure transparency in the fund’s operations. *NewZW*
2024-04-30 08:08:21 *Govt In Quandary Over US$200 Million Owed To Road Contractors* THE government is in a quandary over the payment of companies working on Harare’s critical inner roads linking the new Parliament Building in Mount Hampden and the Beitbridge-Harare-Chirundu highway project amid fears such payments would increase inflationary pressures and erode the newly introduced ZiG currency. On the other hand, the government does not have the forex to settle its obligations to the firms in hard currency. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- The companies have not been paid for their current work. The government fears that contractors will offload their ZiG payments onto the black market to buy forex, increasing inflationary pressure at a time efforts are being made to prop up the currency. As seen in the past, the flooding of local currency on the parallel market puts pressure on the exchange rate and accelerates the depreciation of the local currency relative to the US dollar. With the supply side of local currency booming, the rate shifts fast due to the scarcity of forex. The demand for forex increases with increased money supply. Milton Friedman famously said “inflation is always and everywhere a monetary phenomenon in the sense that it is and can be produced only by a more rapid increase in the quantity of money than in output”. Friedman was an American economist and statistician who received the 1976 Nobel Prize in Economics for his research on consumption analysis, monetary history and theory and the complexity of stabilisation policy. When undertaking public works, Treasury provides funding in cash (local currency transfers), instead of long-term financing models such as private-public partnerships or build-operate-transfer. Suppliers in 2022 were paid in bulk and that took half of government’s monthly budget, which was between ZW$95 billion and ZW$100 billion. Owing to the inflationary environment, the government suppliers did forward pricing or forward rate benchmarking of the exchange rate. As they mopped up the forex market, they put pressure on the official exchange rate as well as the parallel market rate. This resulted in a phenomenon bordering on hyperinflation for the third time in just over a decade. As public procurement suppliers and contractors drove the exchange rate, inflation climbed to 256.9% in July, from 191.6% in the prior month. Responding to questions at a breakfast meeting in Mutare on Thursday which was organised by the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce, Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe governor John Mushayavanhu however said paying government contractors does not fuel volatility in the parallel market exchange rate. “Contractors are paid by government mostly in US dollars. If they are paid in ZiGs, it is from the stock of ZiGs in the market and not from printing. If (government) is using money already in circulation which is controlled, I do not see how that can cause ripples,” Mushayavanhu said. Companies implementing the roadworks on Harare’s critical inner roads linking the new Parliament Building in Mount Hampden and the Beitbridge-Harare-Chirundu highway project are owed a total of over US$200 million for different construction work which will cover 255 kilometres. The government pays contractors in local currency and in United States dollars. It is supposed to have paid part of the total cost to enable them to do their work and meet timelines, but it has not yet done so. Treasury fears paying the companies will fuel parallel market foreign exchange trade and stoke inflation. The government’s failure to pay on time has left construction firms struggling without adequate working capital to finance day-to-day operations. As a result, the companies are already behind schedule. In the current situation, informed industry sources told The NewsHawks that the five contractors involved in the inner Harare road networks rehabilitation project linking to the Beitbridge-Harare-Chirundu highway – Bitumen World, Fossil Contractors, Exodus Company, Masimba Construction and Tensor Systems – have not been paid. The five companies involved in the Beitbridge-Harare-Chirundu highway project, initially estimated to cost US$2.7 billion, are collectively rehabilitating the whole stretch, spanning 935km. The government says it is almost done with the 580-kilometre Beitbridge-Harare section and has now embarked on the 355km stretch which will cost US$550 million. Authorities now say the Beitbridge-Harare road will cost US$1 billion. There has not been a consistent costing of the project. It was split into sections. One contractor told The NewsHawks last week: “All companies which are involved in the Beitbridge-Harare-Chirundu project are also working on sections within the Harare City precincts and the linkages. But then the problem is that we haven’t been paid for current works. So we are struggling to pay for supplies of materials and other costs.” “We have to pay engineers. Laying out a road project requires finding an area with the right infrastructure in place to support the weight of heavy equipment. The cost of building a road depends on the materials used. For example, asphalt is a softer material that takes longer to level and requires greater maintenance.” Added the contractor: “And the cost of building a road also depends on the distance. There are also labour costs which vary depending on the location and the number of workers. We also have to pick up the tab of equipment such as dump trucks, bulldozers, and earthmovers. There are many things involved. There are costs of design and planning. The cost of designing and planning a road project can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the number of professionals required.” Contractors say they are struggling without working capital as it is the money needed to finance the day-to-day operations and expenses of a project. These projects are important for President Emmerson Mnangagwa, particularly due to the upcoming Southern African Development Community (Sadc) summit to be held in August in Harare. The authorities are desperate to impress visiting leaders. At least 40 greater roads in and around the city have been lined up for massive construction and maintenance ahead of the 2024 Sadc summit. The Sadc preparatory mission engaged the government technical team in terms of preparations for hosting the 44th summit in August. Cabinet also resolved to prioritise the rehabilitation and maintenance of Harare’s road network in preparation for the Sadc summit. The resolutions include: Declaration of state of disaster: Cabinet declared the state of Harare’s roads a state of disaster, enabling the ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development to expedite the rehabilitation process. Emergency road rehabilitation: It approved the emergency rehabilitation of 40 selected roads in Harare, focusing on high-traffic areas and major routes. Prioritisation of urban roads: The ministry of Transport was directed to prioritise the urban section of the Harare-Chirundu Road project, ensuring completion by 31 July 2024; Additional funding: Cabinet approved additional funding for the road rehabilitation programme, ensuring adequate resources for the project’s completion; Inter-ministerial committee: An Inter-ministerial committee was established to oversee the road rehabilitation programme, ensuring coordination and expediting the process; Private sector involvement: The authorities encouraged private sector participation in the road rehabilitation programme through public-private partnerships; Community engagement: The ministry was directed to engage with local communities and stakeholders to ensure minimal disruptions and maximum cooperation during the rehabilitation process. *Newshawks*
2024-04-30 08:08:08 *Public Hearings On Death Penalty Amendment Bill* Parliament will next week conduct public hearings on the Death Penalty Abolition Bill that was gazetted last year. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- The Bill will amend the Criminal Law Code and the Criminal Procedure and Evidence Act. The Bill was brought to Parliament by Dzivarasekwa legislator, Mr Edwin Mushoriwa, as a private member’s Bill. The public hearings will be conducted by the National Assembly’s Portfolio Committee on Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs and the Senate’s Thematic Committee on Human Rights The hearings will be held from May 6 to 10 in Kadoma, Gweru, Bulawayo, Lupane, Filabusi, Bindura, Harare, Marondera, Mutare and Masvingo. In February, Government threw its support behind the Bill which will ensure its passage in Parliament. *Zimpapers*
2024-04-30 08:07:55 *Zim Struggles To Attain Gender Equality: World Bank* ZIMBABWE continues to face significant challenges in achieving gender equality and combating gender-based violence (GBV), the World Bank has said. The World Bank Group, in its Zimbabwe Gender-based Violence Assessment Report, said despite ranking better than the Sub-Saharan Africa average on the Gender Inequality Index, Zimbabwe continued to lag global estimates on gender equality indicators. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- The report said a substantial percentage of women in the country had experienced physical, sexual or both forms of violence. It further indicated that patriarchal social norms continue to perpetuate inequality and violence, while survivors of GBV often face barriers in seeking help and justice. “The prevalence of gender-based violence is high, and incidences of several forms of GBV remain unchanged. In 2019, around 42,5% of women experienced physical and/or sexual violence — similar to the 43,4 rate reported in 2011 and higher than the global and regional averages of 27% and 33%, respectively,” the report said. “Women in Zimbabwe still experience higher rates of HIV/Aids, lower formal employment levels and are less likely to complete secondary education compared to men.” It further indicated that less than half of GBV survivors seek help, with only 37,7% of individuals affected by the scourge seeking help. The report also flagged cases of violence against children saying less than 40% of survivors knew where to access GBV services while only 5% sought and received assistance. “Harmonisation of laws on GBV has been occurring since the new Constitution was adopted in 2013. Progress has been slow for several reasons, which include inadequate financial, human, material and technical resources; lack of political will by some ministries; and weak co-ordination among key stakeholders. “Several laws have also not been harmonised to meet GBV requirements. Implementation of GBV legislation is also hamstrung by weak accountability mechanisms and inadequate human and financial resources. Additional mechanisms for criminalising GBV practices need to be put in place,” the report said. It further indicated that while there was significant progress in narrowing gender disparities and addressing GBV in Zimbabwe, overall rates of GBV and violence against children remain alarmingly high. “Other forms of GBV include child marriage, with 33,7% of women marrying before age 18, and 5,4% before age 15. Over 90% of women experience sexual harassment at work,” the report said. It urged the government and Parliament to effectively combat GBV and protect vulnerable populations, strong legislative frameworks, policy support and comprehensive strategies are urgently needed. *AMH*
2024-04-30 08:07:39 *Mnangagwa Urges Zimbabweans To Embrace ZiG Bank Notes In Honor Of Fallen Heroes* The nation should emulate the dedication and patriotism shown by fallen national heroes through embracing the Zimbabwe Gold currency, which was recently introduced by the central bank, as it is a symbol of the country’s national identity and dignity, President Mnangagwa has said. He said this yesterday while addressing thousands of mourners who thronged the National Heroes Acre for a triple burial of two national heroes and a heroine. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- The three are Brigadier General Shadreck Vezha, a decorated General Officer in the Zimbabwe Defence Forces who died in a traffic accident, Cde Nyasha Nash Dzimiri, a veteran of the liberation struggle and an intelligence director in the President’s Department who was diabetic, and Cde Grace Tsitsi Jadagu, a dedicated Zanu PF cadre, war collaborator and former legislator and councillor who died after a short illness. “I commend all Zimbabweans for the manner we have adopted and are protecting the use of our own currency, the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG). Congratulations, Makorokoto. This is our national currency and part of the symbols of our national identity and dignity,” said President Mnangagwa. President Mnangagwa said in the face of neo-imperialist machinations, everyone had a duty across their respective sectors and individually, to defend the country and work hard for a more prosperous future for all. “Our focus remains on the attainment of Vision 2030 and to build Zimbabwe, brick by brick, stone upon stone. The national development philosophy ‘nyika inovakwa, inotongwa, inonamatigwa nevene vayo/llizwe lakhiwa, Iibuswe, likhulekelwe ngabanikazi balo’; remains our guiding compass. We must never lose focus of our economic development thrust, to modernise and industrialise our country. As we strive to achieve our national economic developmental goals, we are bound to encounter challenges. Let us pull in one direction, as a united and peace-loving people. The burden to develop our own country falls with us,” said President Mnangagwa. He said the Second Republic deliberately implemented bold policy decisions to ensure that women and the youth occupy strategic positions in the governance architecture of the country. “Against this background, I urge women and the youth in leadership positions across all levels, in both the public and private sectors to champion transformative initiatives to propel and help drive socio-economic and political advancement. I challenge you to avail yourself for accelerating our national development agenda, for the betterment of our communities and the nation as a whole,” he said. “Let us never forget that it is through the selfless consistent and persistent sacrifices of heroes such as the late Brigadier General Vezha, Cde Dzimiri and Cde Jadagu as well as many other departed and living cadres that Zimbabwe continues to enjoy independence, freedom and sovereignty.” The Head of State and Government urged Zimbabweans to emulate the trio for their dedication to the country. *Zimpapers*
2024-04-30 08:07:24 *‘Death Of Opposition Politics Kills Democratic Discourse’* The death of the main opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) with the ruling Zanu PF party claiming all seats post-August 2023 harmonised elections is threatening the democratic discourse in Zimbabwe, analysts have said. In various interviews, political commentators and actors this week bemoaned the country’s gravitation towards a one-party State. ---------- To join our groups follow: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JGm50iRxztFKI6TKfuaClg --------- Zanu PF is seemingly devouring the opposition parties since the general elections last year dominating by-elections held since December last year. The Zimbabwean electorate has been left disillusioned by the political turmoil after self-imposed CCC interim secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu recalled more than 20 opposition legislators, virtually aiding Zanu PF towards a two-thirds parliamentary majority. Zanu PF took two more seats from the CCC after the by-elections held in Harare East and Mt Pleasant last weekend. According to Zimbabwe Election Support Network (Zesn), voter apathy marred the by-elections. “The voter turnout in both by-elections was very low with Harare East constituency recording a turnout of 15,2%, and Mount Pleasant constituency recorded an 11,6% turnout,” Zesn said. “Members of the public are encouraged to fully utilise their constitutionally guaranteed civil and political rights by, among other things, participating in voting when elections are conducted.” Zanu PF has made inroads into Harare province where the opposition parties have dominated since 2 000, claiming seats in Parliament. Political analysts who spoke to NewsDay bemoaned the dearth of opposition politics after the recent by-elections. Mass Public Opinion Institute director Eldred Masunungure said the post-2023 elections developments in the political arena signalled a full-scale regression to the post-Unity Accord decade. He said the decade between 1988 and 1999 represented a period when Zimbabwe was effectively a de facto one-party system. “Zanu PF (then) enjoyed a supermajority in the then one-chamber Parliament. Though this is happening within a de jure multi-party constitutional framework, having a pliant opposition is still inimical to democratic governance and entrenches the practice of a rubber-stamping Parliament rather than encouraging robust debate in the Legislature,” he said. Masunungure said the opposition in Zimbabwe had become more of an appendage of the ruling party that routinely agreed even on matters that is at variance with the public interest. “In short, it’s dark days in Zimbabwe for critical democratic discourse,” he said. Professor of World Politics at the University of London’s School of Oriental and African Studies Stephen Chan said Zanu PF had achieved its objective of creating a strong one-party State. “Zanu PF has accomplished its aim of creating a dominant party State, with a tame or ineffectual opposition held up to the outside world as evidence of democracy. “It is the Singapore model and it has been achieved by faulty elections and judicially-aided sabotage. I do not expect any effective opposition fight-back against this state of affairs in the near or medium-term future,” he said. Another political analyst Rejoice Ngwenya described the situation as “pretty ugly”. “However, just like (former President Robert) Mugabe’s obsession with one party state-ism in the 1980s and 1990s, ED's will eventually collapse. “The ‘opposition’ is not an institutional or personal phenomenon. No, it is a national collective ethos embedded in progressive Zimbabweans. The phoenix of opposition will rise again, hopefully, not violently,” he said. However, CCC spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi said they would never allow Zimbabwe to become a one-party State. He said the opposition movement would soon announce a programme of action to restore legitimacy in the country. “We will never allow a one-party State to subsist in Zimbabwe. We are seized with rebuilding the authentic alternative on the ground following the hijacking of the CCC by Mnangagwa using Tshabangu. “In the coming days, weeks, and months we are going to unveil a political programme of action to demand Zimbabwe to return to legitimacy, competitive and multiparty democracy,” he said. But Zanu PF director for information, Farai Marapira, defended the current political arena in Zimbabwe. “Our democracy has never been healthier than it is now. Zimbabweans are now voting based on results and not the on basis of hatred with dominant opposition politics. “If anything, the current results in the by-elections show that our politics have matured. Voters are now voting for sound politics and ideas. “If the opposition does not shift from the politics of hate it will continue to sink into the abyss,” he said. *AMH*
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