The Voice Online News, Harare (2025)

25/07/2025

IMF sees signs of recovery in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is showing early signs of economic recovery and macroeconomic stabilization, buoyed by recent policy reforms and improved fiscal management, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The findings were published following the IMF's Article IV Consultation conducted in Harare from June 4 to 18, 2025.

Led by IMF mission chief Wojciech Maliszewski, the team noted that authorities in Zimbabwe had made notable progress in stabilizing the economy after enduring years of hyperinflation, currency depreciation, and structural imbalances. The introduction of the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency, a tightened monetary policy stance, and the halting of quasi-fiscal activities by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) were praised as key steps that helped curb inflation and bring some measure of stability to the exchange rate.

According to the IMF, Zimbabwe's real gross domestic product (GDP) is projected to grow by 6% in 2025. This marks a significant rebound from the economic contraction of 2024, which was primarily caused by a severe drought that crippled agricultural output and falling international mineral prices. The economic rebound is attributed to favorable climate conditions in the current year and a recovery in global gold prices, which have strengthened Zimbabwe's agriculture and mining sectors—both central to the country's economy.

Government revenues also rose to 18% of GDP in 2025, bolstered by tighter tax enforcement, the elimination of some VAT exemptions, and stepped-up anti-smuggling measures. However, despite improved revenue collection, the IMF raised concern over mounting fiscal pressures. These include rising public sector wages, debt repayment obligations stemming from the RBZ's past operations, preparations for the upcoming Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit, and contingent liabilities linked to the state-owned Mutapa Investment Fund.

The Fund pointed out that Zimbabwe's fiscal deficit had widened due to increased borrowing through Treasury bills and the use of RBZ's overdraft facility. This surge in domestic borrowing contributed to excess liquidity, which in turn triggered a sharp depreciation of the ZiG in September 2024. The devaluation led to inflation spikes and delays in government payments, as arrears began to build up.

However, between February and May 2025, the economy witnessed a marked stabilization in prices, with average monthly inflation slowing to 0.5%. The gap between the official and parallel exchange rates also narrowed to about 20%, reflecting improved confidence in the currency markets. The IMF welcomed the recent repeal of Statutory Instrument 81A, which had previously forced businesses to use the official exchange rate, encouraging informal trading and deepening dollarisation.

Among its key recommendations, the IMF urged the Zimbabwean government to avoid inflationary financing and to manage expenditure more effectively. The Fund emphasized the need for stronger political commitment to fiscal discipline, especially in the formulation of the 2026 National Budget, which it said should reinforce confidence in the government's reform agenda.

In monetary policy, the IMF advised the RBZ to improve transparency in the willing-buyer willing-seller (WBWS) foreign exchange system and to gradually phase out surrender requirements in favor of more market-driven mechanisms. The Fund also recommended the introduction of indirect monetary tools and a deposit facility at the central bank.

The IMF also highlighted the importance of enhancing governance and transparency at the Mutapa Investment Fund and other state-owned enterprises. It called for improved oversight, better reporting systems, and public access to audited accounts to reduce fiscal risks and build trust.

On currency reform, the IMF acknowledged the government's plan to transition to a mono-currency system anchored solely on the ZiG by 2030. However, it cautioned that any transition should be limited to domestic transactions and must not interfere with dual-currency bank accounts in order to maintain public confidence in the financial system.

Despite Zimbabwe's positive momentum, the IMF reiterated that it cannot yet provide financial support to the country due to unsustainable debt levels and outstanding arrears. The resumption of IMF lending would require a credible debt restructuring plan, clearance of arrears, and consistent implementation of reforms that address macroeconomic imbalances, poverty, and governance deficits.

Nonetheless, the IMF reaffirmed its commitment to support Zimbabwe's reform agenda through technical assistance and policy guidance. During their mission, IMF officials held wide-ranging discussions with President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube, RBZ Governor Dr. John Mushayavanhu, members of Parliament, civil society representatives, the private sector, and development partners.

"Zimbabwe's economic outlook is improving, but long-term stability hinges on deeper reforms, improved fiscal discipline, and enhanced governance," the IMF concluded.

25/07/2025

Arrest for assault further expose man with cannabis

PLUMTREE - Instituting an arrest over assault has further exposed Mxolisi Ncube (20) of Mlotshana village in Mangwe to a 12-month imprisonment sentence for unlawful possession of w**d weighing 15 grammes.

Plumtree magistrate, Mr Joshua Nembaware, convicted Ncube for unlawful possession of dangerous drugs as defined in section 157(1) of the criminal law (codification and reform) act chapter 09:23.

Of the 12 months imprisonment sentence, Nembaware suspended 6 months for a period of 5 yrs on condition that Ncube does not commit a similar offence within that period, an element for which upon conviction is sent to imprisonment without the option of a fine.

Ncube will however serve 6 remaining months effective imprisonment term.

State led by Sheila Nyathi told the court that on July 16 of 2025 around 23:30 hours, upon arresting Mxolisi Ncube for an assault case, officers searched and found him in possession of six sachets of dagga from his small bag. Officers seized and weighed the dagga with the assistance of a postmaster from Zimpost where it weigh 15 grammes.

23/07/2025

Referees undermining Dynamos' survival bid?

Under-fire Dynamos coach Saul Chaminuka has hinted at a possible conspiracy by match officials to sink the struggling Harare giants deeper into relegation danger, following a string of contentious decisions he believes have cost his side critical points.

Chaminuka, who took over from Lloyd "Mablanyo" Chigowe two months ago, has overseen a marginal improvement in performance, but results have continued to elude the Glamour Boys. Dynamos remain second from bottom on the Premier Soccer League log with 15 points from 21 matches — a perilous position for one of Zimbabwe's most decorated football clubs.

Tensions boiled over after Dynamos' narrow 1-0 loss to Simba Bhora last Saturday, with Chaminuka publicly questioning the integrity of referees. The match was settled in the 87th minute by former Dynamos midfielder Junior Makunike, but Chaminuka insists the goal should never have stood — arguing Makunike should have been sent off long before scoring.

"He kept kicking out at my players five, six times. That was a straight red. But nothing happened," Chaminuka lamented.

Frustrated, the coach claimed officiating in recent matches has consistently worked against his team, undermining efforts on the training ground.

"It's now very difficult to coach these players because we are playing against the referees, not just the opposition," he said. "You spend the whole week planning, coaching, fine-tuning tactics, and on match day, it's all undone — not by your opponent, but by the man with the whistle."

Chaminuka alleged that questionable refereeing had cost his side in previous fixtures as well, including defeats to Ngezi Platinum Stars and FC Platinum, both of which featured controversial penalties awarded against his team.

"Maybe there is a conspiracy against us. If you speak out, you get sanctioned. But how are we supposed to remain silent when these things keep happening?"

While the coach admitted Dynamos have their own tactical and technical shortcomings, he insisted they should be allowed to win or lose on merit, not through biased officiating.

"We lost to TelOne in a fair contest. They outplayed us and we wasted chances — that we can accept. But it's hard when referees tilt the game."

As pressure mounts, Chaminuka's remarks reflect the growing desperation within the Dynamos camp. Once giants of Zimbabwean football, DeMbare are now battling for topflight survival.

They face another crucial test tomorrow when they host fellow strugglers Manica Diamonds at Rufaro Stadium — a match that could define their trajectory for the remainder of the season.

"With the way things are, every game is a mountain. But we have to start climbing," said Chaminuka, as his team stares down the threat of relegation for the first time in decades. - HMetro

23/07/2025

Zanu PF pushes for regional coal, steel union

ZANU PF is spearheading efforts to establish a coal and steel union among former liberation movements in the Sadc region as part of a broader push to strengthen economic integration in the region.

Secretary-generals from the region’s former liberation parties are expected to convene this week in South Africa for the summit, where the proposed industrial partnership will be discussed as a pathway to deepen economic collaboration rooted in shared historical and ideological ties.

According to Zanu PF spokesperson and official summit mouthpiece Christopher Mutsvangwa, the proposed union will be a key item on the agenda at this year’s annual summit of Sadc liberation movements.

In an interview with NewsDay, Mutsvangwa said the former liberation movements' spokespersons had a meeting ahead of the summit slated for July 25 to 26 in Sandton, South Africa.

“I have initiated the idea of former liberation movements — sponsored Sadc coal and steel union, with South Africa and Zimbabwe being the major producers of iron ore, chrome and manganese, Mozambique producing hydro energy and natural gas and Tanzania, nickel and hydro power.

“The Sadc steel union has the comparative advantage to produce both gas and stainless steel cheaper than any global competition,” he said.

Mutsvangwa said the liberation movements in Sadc fought to unite and strengthen the bloc's economic ties and claim global space in industry.

“If we collaborate among ourselves, we will set the price of steel globally because we put all the raw materials within the geographical parameters,” Mutsvangwa said.

“The competition will be China, they import from Brazil, Australia, Indonesia, South Africa and these are thousands of kilometres by sea.

“The logistical chain is long and we have the advantage of having all those in proximity. If we co-operate among us, we will set the price of steel globally, and we can solve the issue of cheap energy which is cleaner than coal.

“We can supply our steel industry with cheap power, cheaper than China. With steel from Manhize, we can build transmission lines from Cabo Delgado to Zimbabwe and South Africa. We could supply our industry with power cheaper than China.”

Mutsvangwa said this would lead to Zimbabwe steel being the cheapest in the world.

“Because chrome, nickel and iron ore are all within the same region. So God naturally made us champions of steel.

“We can set the global price of steel. We can set the price for the global market. And this is at a time when in Europe, their iron ore resources are depleted. Their coal resources are depleted,” he said.

21/07/2025

Disappointment and frustration are brewing in Durban after popular Zimbabwean dancehall artist Jimmy Mudereri, widely known as Silent Killer, failed to appear as the main act at the highly anticipated music event “Cool Runnings” this past weekend. The no-show has left fans and promoters thoroughly disillusioned, with event organizer Stige Movement publicly demanding an unreserved media apology from the artist.

Nqabutho Prestige “Stige” Dlamini, the show’s promoter and head of Stige Movement, expressed deep frustration over Silent Killer’s unexplained absence. “We arranged everything to the letter — from direct flights out of Zimbabwe to hotel accommodations, not to mention a 50% advance payment for his performance,” Dlamini stated in a press release issued today, Monday, July 21, 2025. “His failure to show up is unacceptable and disrespectful to both the team and the fans.”

Fans had gathered at “Cool Runnings” with palpable anticipation, only to be met with the news of Silent Killer’s non-appearance. The venue, which had been buzzing with excitement, was left in a state of dismay.
Stige Movement has now formally called upon Silent Killer to issue a public apology for his actions. Dlamini further warned that “failure to apologise will result in instantaneous legal action. We will open a case for breach of contract and damages incurred.”

The statement concluded with a strong commitment from Stige Movement: “We sincerely apologise to all our fans and supporters who came out in full force. We will not tolerate disregard for commitment, and we will continue to uphold the values of veracity, responsibility, and excellence in our events.”
Efforts to reach Silent Killer or his representatives for comment on the allegations have, so far, been unsuccessful.

21/07/2025

Tagwirei has constitutional right to aspire for presidency - Pastor

Prominent cleric and former Zimbabwe National Army chaplain, Pastor Solomon Ndlovu of Holy Spirit Ministries, has defended businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei, asserting that he has a constitutional right to aspire to the presidency.

Ndlovu's comments come amid intense speculation and factional friction within Zanu PF over Tagwirei's recent appointment to the party's Central Committee. This has fueled suspicions that the fuel mogul is being groomed to succeed President Emmerson Mnangagwa, a claim Tagwirei has publicly denied.

Media reports suggest that Tagwirei is leveraging his wealth to position himself as a potential successor, triggering backlash from a faction aligned with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga - the former army commander who played a pivotal role in removing long-time ruler Robert Mugabe in the 2017 military coup.

"Any citizen of Zimbabwe has the right to become President, join the Central Committee, or serve in the Politburo, as long as they are elected by the people," Pastor Ndlovu said.

He condemned those criticizing Tagwirei's political rise as acting "unconstitutionally," arguing that blocking someone's democratic ambitions without evidence of wrongdoing undermines the nation's political maturity.

"If Tagwirei wants to be President, let him campaign. If the people vote for him, then so be it. Those with evidence of any crime must report to the police - not spread unfounded rumors," said Ndlovu.

He further drew parallels to the sidelining of late Vice President Joshua Nkomo, warning that history could repeat itself if Zimbabwe continues to shun viable candidates due to factionalism and elitist gatekeeping.

While Tagwirei recently reiterated his loyalty to President Mnangagwa, stating there is "no vacancy" for the presidency until at least 2030, speculation remains rife. Addressing delegates in Bulawayo at the Land Tenure Implementation Committee meeting, Tagwirei said:

"It's foolish to pursue something that doesn't exist. The President is in office until 2030. Anyone saying otherwise is dreaming."

However, Zanu PF spokesperson Chris Mutsvangwa, himself a rumored presidential aspirant, issued a veiled warning, saying that while anyone - businessman or fisherman - can join the party, joining with ulterior motives for power may lead to resistance.

"Zanu PF is a mass party, not a vehicle for personal ambition. Those who enter to serve themselves, not the party, will be winnowed out," he said.

Sources say President Mnangagwa and First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa are determined to block Chiwenga from ascending to the presidency, fearing retribution against their business allies. Mnangagwa's constitutional term ends in 2028, but loyalists are reportedly pushing for an extension to 2030.

Despite Tagwirei's denial of presidential ambitions, his growing influence in Zanu PF and close proximity to the President continue to stoke debate around succession politics in Zimbabwe.

21/07/2025

Zanu-PF Conference to address Mnangagwa's future

Zanu-PF spokesperson Christopher Mutsvangwa says the ruling party's upcoming annual conference, set for 13-20 October at Mutare Polytechnic, will provide clarity and direction on the party's contentious and unresolved leadership question - specifically whether President Emmerson Mnangagwa will seek to extend his rule beyond 2030 despite the constitutional two-term limit.

Addressing a press conference at the Zanu-PF headquarters in Harare on Monday, Mutsvangwa said the conference would tackle head-on the divisive debate around Mnangagwa's future leadership ambitions, which has sparked fierce factional battles within the party ahead of the 2027 elective congress and the 2028 general elections. By then, Mnangagwa's constitutionally mandated 10-year tenure would have expired.

"This conference will give political direction on this issue which has caused unnecessary noise. The party will speak. There will be clarity," Mutsvangwa told journalists.

The debate over Mnangagwa's future has polarised the ruling party, with some senior figures pushing for constitutional amendments to allow him to rule beyond his current term limit, while others - including factions aligned with Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga - are said to be resisting such moves, citing constitutionalism and the need for leadership renewal.

Mutsvangwa also touched on a wide range of political, economic, and international issues during the briefing, including Mnangagwa's recent visits to Equatorial Guinea, Japan, and Algeria. He said the president's diplomatic engagements were focused on strengthening bilateral ties, securing investment, and positioning Zimbabwe strategically within global geopolitics.

Further details on preparations for the October conference and its agenda are expected to be unveiled in the coming weeks. - BusinessDaily

21/07/2025

"You Can’t Buy ZANU PF Influence" Mutsvangwa Clears Air on Tagwirei’s Party Role

ZANU PF spokesperson Ambassador Christopher Mutsvangwa has distanced businessman Kudakwashe Tagwirei from the party’s Central Committee saying he failed to meet the necessary vetting requirements.

Addressing journalists at the party headquarters, Mutsvangwa clarified that Tagwirei, often associated with powerful circles is not part of ZANU PF’s top decision-making body.

“The Constitution is very clear on how one becomes a Central Committee member. When the Committee was convened, the tick boxes were assessed and recommendations from Harare were weighed against the eligibility criteria. He did not meet the mark,” said Mutsvangwa

The Central Committee is the party’s highest policy organ between congresses making its membership both prestigious and tightly regulated.

Mutsvangwa took the opportunity to warn against individuals attempting to use their wealth to manipulate party structures.

“There are those who think they can use money to gain influence in ZANU PF. The democratic tradition runs very deep in our party. If you think you can buy your way in, then try buying every voter in Zimbabwe. It won’t work” he said

He said the party’s internal processes are robust and its grassroots-driven electoral colleges cannot be easily swayed by moneyed elites.

Touching on the controversial term “zvigananda” a Shona slang word often used to describe flashy or elitist behaviour, Mutsvangwa said it represented the emergence of a national bourgeoisie which he argued was not inherently problematic.

“This is a growing middle class. If zvigananda is understood in that context, there’s nothing wrong with it. The problem only arises when it evolves into what we call a Lumpen middle class unprincipled and disconnected from the masses,” he said.

21/07/2025

Girl (14) drowns while doing laundry

TRAGEDY struck in Chihobvu village, under Chief Saunyama in Nyanga, last week, when a 14-year-old girl drowned in the Pendeke River.

Manicaland police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, confirmed the incident and identified the deceased as Mercy Madotsa.

Assistant Inspector Chinyoka said Mercy had gone to the river with two other juveniles to do laundry around 1pm.

“Mercy attempted to sit on a rock, slipped, and fell into the water, resulting in her drowning,” he said.

Mercy’s mother, Martha Dzomba, was notified and joined other villagers in retrieving the body.

The incident was reported to ZRP Nyanga, and the body was taken to Nyanga General Hospital for a postmortem examination.

21/07/2025

Global Wetlands Loss Could Cost $39 Trillion

The world’s wetlands, vital ecosystems that sustain life across the globe, are disappearing at an alarming rate, putting up to $39 trillion in global benefits at risk, according to a new report.

The Global Wetland Outlook 2025 (GWO 2025), released by the Convention on Wetlands, warns that up to one-fifth of the planet’s remaining wetlands could vanish by 2050. This catastrophic loss would have severe social, economic, and environmental consequences.

Wetlands, which cover only 6% of Earth’s surface, contribute significantly to the global economy. They provide critical ecosystem services, including clean water, flood protection, food production, and carbon storage—benefits that account for more than 7.5% of global GDP. Despite their immense value, wetlands are being lost at a rate of 0.52% annually, undermining efforts to combat climate change and biodiversity loss.

Dr. Musonda Mumba, Secretary General of the Convention on Wetlands, emphasised the urgency of action: “Wetlands bankroll the planet, yet we continue to invest more in their destruction than in their recovery. We are sitting on a $10 trillion opportunity—restoring wetlands could unlock these benefits, but time is running out.”

The GWO 2025 highlights alarming trends in wetland loss and degradation. Since 1970, 22% of global wetlands have been lost, equivalent to over half a billion football pitches. Regions such as Latin America, the Caribbean, and Africa have seen the most significant declines, and one in four of the world’s remaining wetlands are now in poor ecological condition.

The report offers hope, however, showcasing successful restoration projects in places like Zambia’s Kafue Flats, where a modest investment of $300,000 is now protecting vital water systems and supporting livelihoods worth $30 million annually.

As the world prepares for the COP15 Wetlands Conference in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, in July 2025, the GWO 2025 calls for urgent investment and coordinated action.

Governments and businesses are urged to integrate wetland values into decision-making and finance mechanisms, such as carbon markets and resilience bonds, to reverse the devastating trend.

21/07/2025

Man duped US$17 000 in stand scam

A 29-YEAR-OLD Mutare man has been arrested for allegedly selling a residential stand he did not own to an unsuspecting home seeker.

Allan Venice Magara, of 07A Jongwe Street, Palmerstone, Mutare, was apprehended by detectives after selling a stand in Silverbow suburb, Rusape, to an unsuspecting Mr Fortune Rusape.

However, the stand in question legally belongs to Tsitsi Mukomberanwa, who was not part of the deal.

Manicaland police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka confirmed Magara’s arrest.

Assistant Inspector Chinyoka explained that to deceive the buyer, Magara involved a real estate agent and even had the buyer pay taxes to ZIMRA.

“On May 23, 2025, at around 8am, the accused person misrepresented that he owned residential stand number 1506 Silverbow, Rusape, and intended to sell it. He then engaged the services of Ms Tambudzai Kanyerudza, a real estate agent, to advertise the stand. The agent met the complainant, who signalled his intention to buy the stand and requested to meet the accused person.

“On June 4, 2025, Magara met the complainant and took him to stand number 1506 Silverbow, Rusape. The accused person requested Mr Rusape to pay him ZWG10 000 and US$50 for a lease agreement application. The complainant paid the money to the accused person. The complainant then gave the accused person US$11 000 as part payment for the residential stand.

“On June 9, 2025, Mr Rusape paid US$4 000 to Magara, again as payment for the residential stand. On June 23, 2025, the accused person requested the complainant to pay US$1 897 for ZIMRA clearance, and the complainant paid the money to the accused person,” said Assistant Inspector Chinyoka.

Mr Rusape received the shock of his life when he visited ‘his’ newly acquired stand to clear the land, only to be informed by neighbours that the stand actually belonged to someone else.

“On July 9, 2025, the complainant began clearing the land at Stand Number 1506 Silverbow, Rusape. However, a neighbour approached him, revealing that the stand belonged to Ms Mukomberanwa, and provided her contact details.

The complainant contacted Ms Mukomberanwa, who confirmed ownership of the stand. On July 14, 2025, the complainant reported the matter to the police. CID Rusape attended the scene and arrested the accused person. The total value of the fraud amounts to US$17 280, and nothing was recovered,” said Assistant Inspector Chinyoka. - ManicaPost

18/07/2025

Harare Businessman Duped in Alleged $322K Fraud by Chinese Associate

A 40-year-old Chinese national appeared in court on Thursday, accused of swindling a local businessman out of $322,381 by falsely claiming he could acquire chrome, antimony, and copper, and secure an export license on the businessman’s behalf.

Xiang Jun, 40, appeared before Harare Regional magistrate Donald Ndirowei charged with fraud.

He was granted US$300 bail and the matter was remanded to 20 August 2025.

The State, represented by Rufaro Chonzi, alleges that in June 2024, Jun falsely claimed to the complainant that he had the ability to acquire chrome, antimony, and copper, and to secure an export license for them.

Acting upon the misrepresentation, the complainant reportedly paid US$ 322 381-00 to Jun to supply these minerals and to acquire the export licence.

After receiving the funds, Jun signed an acknowledgment of receipt, which can be presented as an exhibit. Li Yuchun, who was present during the transaction, is available to testify as a witness.

After the complainant paid, Jun became evasive and failed to deliver the promised products.

It is the State’s case that due to Jun’s action, the complainant suffered an actual prejudice of US$322 381-00 and nothing was recovered.

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