The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has urged the government to urgently review civil servants’ salaries in light of the official devaluation of the Zimbabwe Gold currency (ZiG) by over 40% against the US dollar.
On Friday, September 27, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) adjusted the ZiG exchange rate from 14.1 ZiG per dollar to 24.3 ZiG per dollar.
In response to this development, ARTUZ said the ZiG component of public sector salaries should be automatically adjusted to reflect the devaluation, without requiring additional worker demands. ARTUZ said:
<blockquote>
Mthuli Ncube and the employing authorities in government should not wait to be told that since ZIG has officially been devalued by 44% to the USD, the ZIG component of salaries should be automatically adjusted.
The success and stability of this Republic is on the shoulders of the workers. The government as the biggest employer should lead the way, prioritising the welfare of the workers.
</blockquote>
Businessman Kuda Musasiwa criticised the government for paying civil servants at the ZiG13.5 exchange rate, only to subsequently devalue the ZiG to 25. He described this action as “not only immoral but criminal.”
The Mayor of Bulawayo, David Coltart, who is a long-time opposition politician, said the the “timing of the devaluation seems cynically calculated.” He posted on X:
<blockquote>
Spare a thought for civil servants – paid just a few days ago and today the value of what is left in their bank accounts is almost slashed in half. The timing of the devaluation seems cynically calculated.
So much for this being “Zimbabwe Gold” – ZIG – when its value is going in the opposite direction to the actual gold price.
In any democracy, such catastrophic policy failure would end a government’s term of office. But we aren’t a democracy so those responsible continue with impunity.
</blockquote>
The devaluation of the ZiG will result in local consumers experiencing diminished purchasing power, which may lead to a decline in living standards.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

The teachers in Zimbabwe want the government to give them more money because the value of their currency has gone down by over 40%. This means they can't buy as much with their salary as before. The teachers say the government should automatically adjust their salaries to make up for the drop in currency value. A businessman also criticized the government for paying the teachers less than what the currency is actually worth. This means people might have less money to buy things they need, which will make life harder for them.

Teachers Demand Urgent Pay Rise After Dramatic ZiG Fall

The e304 million investment deal to convert garbage at Harare’s main dumpsite at Pomona into a safe and inert form came to life yesterday following the city’s handover of the rubbish dump to Geo Pomona Waste Management Private Limited.
This is despite strong reservations by councillors belonging to the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) led by Nelson Chamisa who argue that the deal is not sustainable and meant to enrich the contractor.
The deal involves the setting up of a modern rubbish processing plant that will generate a modest 22MW of electricity.
The project is projected to generate at least 300 jobs while the structures are being built and boost economic growth.

<ul>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/03/02/pomona-waste-to-power-project-nguwaya-colleagues-to-get-us14-6-million-yearly-2027-2052/">Pomona Waste-To-Power Project: Nguwaya, Colleagues To Get US$14.6 Million Yearly 2027-2052</a></li>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/03/02/download-pomona-waste-to-power-project-agreement/">Download: Pomona Waste-To-Power Project Agreement</a></li>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/03/14/govt-edits-the-us400-million-waste-to-energy-pomona-dumpsite-contract/">Govt Edits The US$400 Million Waste-to-energy Pomona Dumpsite Contract</a></li>
</ul>
Geo Pomona Waste Management Private Limited is under Geogenix BV, an international firm involved in dealing with garbage.
In a joint statement signed by acting Harare town clerk Engineer Mabhena Moyo and Geo Pomona Waste Management Private Limited country representative Mr Dilesh Nguwaya and read yesterday during the site handover, both parties promised to work harmoniously. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The City of Harare undertakes and promises to hand over the Pomona dumpsite to Geo Pomona Waste Management Private Limited with full rights, dominion and control over the dumpsite for a period of 30 years reckoned from April 28, 2022.
</blockquote>
A full handover-takeover inventory was undertaken yesterday, with a certificate, as agreed, to be signed by both parties.
It had been agreed that for 30 years, the City of Harare and Geo Pomona Waste Management should work hand-in-hand to ensure the contract was carried through to its successful conclusion.
The statement stated that City officials and employees would remain on site from the handover and commencement date until May 20, by that date Geo Pomona Waste Management would have exclusive management of the dumpsite.
Mr Nguwaya thanked the Government for creating a conducive environment for attracting international investors into the energy sector,
Most of the waste generated in Harare was being carried and processed in neighbouring countries, including South Africa.
Acting Harare director of works Engineer Gerald Mutumhe said the handover will establish a 30-year business venture under the build-operate-transfer model.
A city engineer, Mr Keith Mapunzamoyo, said Harare received a proposal in 2019 which was reviewed at different stages up to 2021, including carrying out feasibility studies and touring similar projects carried out by the investor in other countries, including Italy.
The deal was approved by Cabinet on February 14 and signed by Harare City Council and Geogenix BV on March 9.
It has since been granted National Project Status, a development that is expected to speed up its implementation.
Suspended Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/03/02/pomona-waste-to-power-project-nguwaya-colleagues-to-get-us14-6-million-yearly-2027-2052/">previously said the deal</a> “stinks to high heavens”, adding: “It’s plain thievery.”
More: The Herald; Pindula News

Pomona Waste-to-energy Deal Takes Effect Despite Opposition From CCC Councillors

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has indicated that 90 per cent of teachers are turning up for duty and this has ensured that Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) examinations are progressing smoothly.
The Director of communication in the Ministry of Education, Taungana Ndoro said the return to work of the bulk of the teachers means that there is enough manpower to thoroughly effect the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for examination candidates. Said Ndoro:
<blockquote>Over 90 per cent of teachers have turned up for duty and this is a positive sign in light of the ongoing ZIMSEC examinations.
This means that we have enough manpower to thoroughly effect our SOP’s for all our candidates including those writing in isolation.</blockquote>
Ndoro said it was heartening that pupils who had tested positive for the coronavirus were recovering well and schools have also adopted the new norm. He said:
<blockquote>We are further pleased that while there may have been worrying concerns about a rise in COVID-19 in our schools, the good thing is that most of our learners are recovering or are on the road to recovery.
We are now in a new norm and learning and teaching is taking place in a new norm.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/zimsec-exams-progress-well/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Chronicle</a></h4>

90 Percent Of Teachers Return To Work, Boost For ZIMSEC Exams - Ndoro

Below are some of the huge stories you might have missed.
<blockquote>
<ol>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/04/25/foreigners-may-lose-jobs-in-south-africas-restaurants-post-lockdown/">Foreigners May Lose Jobs In South Africa’s Restaurants Post-Lockdown</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/04/26/chamisa-team-considering-these-3-options-as-the-party-leadership-wrangles-escalate-report/">Chamisa &amp; Team Considering These 3 Options As The Party Leadership Wrangles Escalate – Report</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/04/26/mwonzora-and-komichi-to-sacrifice-6-mdc-alliance-mps-report/">Mwonzora And Komichi To ‘Sacrifice’ 6 MDC Alliance MPs – REPORT</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/04/26/backyard-schools-mushroom-across-the-country-as-teachers-defy-lockdown/">Backyard Schools Mushroom Across The Country As Teachers Defy Lockdown</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/04/26/health-authorities-disagree-on-number-of-covid-19-recoveries/">Health Authorities ‘Disagree’ On Number Of COVID-19 Recoveries</a></li>
<li>
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/04/26/full-text-zimbabwe-coronavirus-covid-19-update-25-april-2020/">FULL TEXT: Zimbabwe Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update – 25 APRIL 2020</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/04/26/govt-planning-to-release-7-5-million-due-to-the-mdc-to-khupe-and-team-report/">Govt Planning To Release $7.5 Million Due To The MDC To Khupe And Team – Report</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/04/26/stop-copying-and-pasting-ramaphosas-policies-opinion/">‘Stop Copying And Pasting Ramaphosa’s Policies’ – OPINION</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/04/26/whatsapp-ecocash-netone-airtime/">Lockdown Tip: Use EcoCash To Buy NetOne Airtime Without Leaving Your House</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/04/25/it-was-unreasonable-to-arrest-me-for-doing-work-in-my-constituency-arrested-mdc-alliance-mp-speaks/">It Was Unreasonable To Arrest Me For Doing Work In My Constituency – Arrested MDC Alliance MP Speaks</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/04/26/zimsec-announces-provisional-dates-for-june-exams/">ZIMSEC Announces Provisional Dates For June Exams</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/04/24/1-dead-as-1-of-the-vehicles-in-the-first-ladys-convoy-crashes-near-muzarabani/">1 Dead As 1 Of The Vehicles In The First Lady’s Convoy Crashes Near Muzarabani</a>
</li>
</ol>
</blockquote>

ROUNDUP: Returnees Dumped By Roadside, COVID-19 Cases Rise, First Lady Convoy Crashes, ZIMSEC Anounces June Exam Dates.... Stories You Might Have Missed  – 27 April 2020

The Anglican church together with the Tongogara family and the Tongogara trust organised a memorial for the late veteran as tweeted by The Herald:
<blockquote> Bishop Mutamiri and other Priests from the Anglican Church lead family and friends of the late <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_African_National_Liberation_Army">Zanla</a> Forces Commander General <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Josiah_Tongogara">Josiah Tongogara</a> at his annual memorial service at the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_National_Heroes_Acre">National Heroes Acre</a> this morning.</blockquote>
<img alt="" class="size-medium wp-image-144921 aligncenter" decoding="async" height="226" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" src="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Tongoga-memorial-300x226.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Tongoga-memorial-300x226.jpg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Tongoga-memorial-768x579.jpg 768w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Tongoga-memorial-600x452.png 600w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Tongoga-memorial.jpg 796w" width="300"/> <img alt="" class="size-medium wp-image-144922 aligncenter" decoding="async" height="224" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" src="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/tongogara-memorial-300x224.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/tongogara-memorial-300x224.jpg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/tongogara-memorial-768x574.jpg 768w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/tongogara-memorial-600x448.png 600w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/tongogara-memorial.jpg 792w" width="300"/><img alt="" class="size-medium wp-image-144923 aligncenter" decoding="async" height="225" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" src="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Tongo-memorial-300x225.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Tongo-memorial-300x225.jpg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Tongo-memorial-768x577.jpg 768w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Tongo-memorial-600x451.png 600w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Tongo-memorial.jpg 797w" width="300"/>

PICTURES: Josiah Tongogara Memorial At The Heroes' Acre

The MDC leader <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nelson_Chamisa">Nelson Chamisa</a> made a Christmas donation to senior citizens in Matabeleland and here the citizens and their traditional leader <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Chief_Ndiweni">Chief Ndiweni</a> are seen dancing and singing in celebration.
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="360" loading="lazy" scrolling="no" src="https://www.voazimbabwe.com/embed/player/0/5218855.html?type=video" width="640"></iframe>

WATCH: Chief Ndiweni And His People Celebrating Nelson Chamisa's Christmas Donations To Senior Citizens

The President in his Christmas day message said the he knows Zimbabweans are suffering and he promised to keep reforming and said his thrust is long term. Here is a full text of his Christmas day message:
<blockquote>Fellow Zimbabweans, during this time when we celebrate the life of Jesus Christ, let us internalise the values he left for us. The values of loving our neighbours, of protecting and caring for the poor, and of peace and unity.
Since the beginning of the new dispensation, we have worked hard daily, guided by these values. Indeed, at all times we must be guided by Holy Scripture, by a desire and determination for justice, peace and prosperity for all. 
This Christmas, let us look forward not backward; inwards not outwards. Let us focus on how best we can look after our families, our communities and our nation. How we can make Zimbabwe a better place for all.
I know that many of you still suffer. I am not blind to your situation, nor am I deaf to your cries.  I commit to you that we will continue to reform with an eye on the long term; for we must not reform only for ourselves, but for our children and our children’s children. We are undertaking deep, broad, and meaningful reforms.”
The President said his Government had put the economic fundamentals in place, have a balanced budget while they continue to engage the world.We are continuing to open up the political and media spaces. We are clamping down on corruption. And we are building a new Zimbabwe where the people come first.
Whilst we have much more work to do, my promise to you is that we will continue to work with modesty and humility, guided by our faith and scripture, day and night, to build a better future for all,” said President Mnangagwa. I wish you all a peaceful and merry Christmas. God Bless you all and God Bless the nation of Zimbabwe.</blockquote>

ED's Christmas Message - I Know That You Are Still Suffering, We Will Continue To Reform, Our Thrust Is Long Term

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_African_People%27s_Union">ZAPU</a> has in a way called for an NTGA as the socio-economic situation in the country remains dire. Newsday reports.
Speaking to the publication, ZAPU presidential spokesperson Mkhululi Zulu said:
<blockquote>We have said it before that the prevailing socio-economic meltdown cannot be solved by political party affiliations or party memberships. We are astounded that this has fallen on deaf ears, particularly of those currently believing to be political gurus in our country hence awarding themselves the prerogative to solve the problem.
It is only this NTGA that can facilitate free, fair, credible and acceptable elections. It has been very clear from the very onset that the current governance system will lead to the current socio-economic nightmare. This win-at-all cost attitude with one emerging as the most powerful has these disastrous repercussions where as a nation there is no national consensus on many issues.</blockquote>
Zimbabwe has over the last few months been going through an economic turmoil coupled with skyrocketing prices of basic goods and <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/11/08/half-of-zimbabwes-total-population-registers-for-food-aid/">the worst drought in decades which has left half the population in need of food aid.</a>
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2019/12/zapu-wants-transitional-authority-to-tackle-crisis/">Newsday </a>

The Current Socio-Economic Crisis Has Outrun Potilical Populism, Only A National Transition Authority Can Help - ZAPU

The MDC led by Advocate Nelson Chamisa has publicized its stance on <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Political_Actors_Dialogue">POLAD</a> one more time by saying they won’t join the “political graveyard” POLAD Newsday reports.
This was revealed by MDC deputy Spokesperson <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Luke_Tamborinyoka">Luke Tamboranyika</a> who was speaking to the publication when he said:
<blockquote>Polad is a political graveyard judging by the paltry votes garnered by all of its members, starting with Mnangagwa himself, whose votes Zec (the Zimbawbe Electoral Commission) whittled down a record three times.
The collective position of all sane Zimbabweans is the position taken by president (<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nelson_Chamisa">Nelson) Chamisa</a>, which is to snub such comedies at a time citizens are suffering. That Mnangagwa continues to talk about Chamisa betrays the real character that Zimbabwe needs for the country to move forward.</blockquote>
POLAD was <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/22/here-is-what-polad-achieved-in-2019-according-to-the-government/">established by the president in May 2019 and is yet to yield any tangible results. </a>
More:<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2019/12/well-never-join-polad-charade-says-mdc/"> Newsday</a>

We Have No Plans Of Joining The POLAD "Charade" - MDC Alliance

Speaking on the Unity Day commemorations <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nelson_Chamisa">Nelson Chamisa</a> said there was no Unity to celebrate right now because ED’s government has failed to unite a populace beleaguered by a myriad of grievances Newsday reports.
Speaking about the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Unity_Day">Unity Day</a> Chamisa said:
<blockquote>It cannot be unity when you beat up people for saying they are hungry. If doctors say they are incapacitated and they want money, you fire them, when teachers say they want money, you set dogs on them. Is that unity?
It cannot be unity when it appears there are two countries in one. Unity shouldn’t be between parties for power, but it must be about institutions and for the good of everyone, tribes, religion, all provinces, seeing there is something for them.
Unity is important, but they think it is partisan. There is no unity when you can’t resolve issues and hold free and fair elections</blockquote>
Unity Day commemorates the end of the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Matabeleland_province">Matabeleland</a> genocide popularly known as <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Gukurahundi">Gukurahundi</a>.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2019/12/no-unity-to-celebrate-chamisa/">Newsday</a>

"What Unity?" - Chamisa On Unity Day Celebrations

The country’s parks and Wildlife management authority is wobbling with a US$10 Million operational deficits amid reports that it’s understaffed by 1000+ workers the Chronicle reports. This is mainly due to the elephants’ overpopulation in the country’s national parks.
This was revealed in an interview with  ZimParks Director-General Mr Fulton Mangwanya who said that they were operating with a deficit of US$10 million every year and that the elephants’ population is making life difficult for rangers who now patrol beyond the recommended area of 25 square metres per individual. He said the ballooning number of elephants has a strain on the budget.
More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/zimparks-understaffed-by-1000-workers/">The Chronicle</a>

Over 1000 Positions Remain Vacant At ZimParks - Report

Highlife Foundation last announced its intention to enrol doctors into the ZWL$100 Million Doctors Training Fellowship. Since then the foundation has launched a Save our hospitals campaign aimed at buying startup kits for doctors. According to the Foundation Boss Dr Mubaiwa:
<blockquote>We are looking at a start-up kit for doctors that includes diagnostics sets, protective clothing, blood pressure machines, cannulas and most importantly, essential drugs and medicines critical to saving lives.</blockquote>
To contribute to the campaign you can use the following channels:
EcoCash
HLF Donations (Pay Bill)
Account:  0771183483
Biller Code:  78390
Bank: Steward Bank
Account Name: Higher Life  Zimbabwe – Donations
Branch Code: 20102
Account Number: 1001838845
Swift Code: STBLZWHX

How To Contribute To Higherlife Foundation's Save Our Hospitals Campaign

Political Science lecturer, Eldred V Masunungure has said that the recent Cabinet approval of the Constitutional Amendment Bill is indicative of a country moving towards autocracy.
Speaking to the News Day, Masunungure said that the unfortunate part of it that there was no legal way through which the development can be stopped. He said:
<blockquote>The constitutional amendments touch at the heart of the Constitution. These are dangerous developments towards the progression of democracy.
We are moving towards a tenacious autocracy, a chilling future. We should look at those changes with trepidation. I don’t see any constitutional way to stop the amendments because Zanu PF has the majority in Parliament unless sanity prevails in some MPs and they block it.</blockquote>
The Bill, among other things, seeks to repeal Section 92 of the Constitution which demands that presidential candidates nominate two persons who will have to be directly and jointly elected by registered voters.
The running mate clause was supposed to take effect in 2023 elections but the amended Constitution would have the president-elect handpicking two vice presidents.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2019/12/zim-creating-an-ed-autocracy/">News Day</a>

"Unless Sanity Prevails In Some MPs, We're Moving Towards A Tenacious Autocracy" - Masunungure

Information Minister, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa has said that the government has taken a raft of measures to ensure that the general populace enjoys the festive season.
Addressing reporters on Tuesday in Harare, Mutsvangwa said that Finance Minister, Professor Mthuli Ncube managed to pay workers their salaries despite that the year has been a difficult year.
She also said that the government will continue to look for ways which constitute “safety nets” for members of the public.
Watch the video below for more.
<div>
<video controls="controls" height="360" preload="metadata" width="640"><a href="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/GOVT-SAYS-HAS-DONE-A-LOT-TO-MAKE-SURE-THE-FESTIVE-SEASON-IS-LIT.mp4">https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/GOVT-SAYS-HAS-DONE-A-LOT-TO-MAKE-SURE-THE-FESTIVE-SEASON-IS-LIT.mp4</a></video></div>
More: <a href="https://twitter.com/NewZimbabweCom/status/1206954357230653443">New Zimbabwe</a>

Govt Says It Has Done A Lot Ensure This Year's Festive Season Will Be Enjoyable (Video)

Former Finance Minister and Harare-based lawyer, advocate Tendai Biti has said that an amendment of the constitution to satisfy an individual’s desire to retain power must be resisted and be treated with the contempt it deserves.
His remarks come after Cabinet approved the Constitutional Amendment Bill of 2019 which among other issues gives the President-elect to appoint his two deputies as soon as he or she assumes office and also sets the terms, conditions and circumstances under which Vice Presidents can be removed from office.
Posting on Twitter, Biti who is also the Vice President of the opposition MDC led by advocate Nelson Chamisa said:
<blockquote>A constitution is a sacrosanct document that can’t be butchered on the altar of personal ambition and a subjective power retention agenda. Capturing the constitution to reproduce the ogre of a distorted corrupt mediocre power monger is unacceptable and must be resisted by all.</blockquote>
A few weeks ago, the ruling ZANU PF indicated intentions to amend the constitution so as to extend president Emmerson Mnangagwa’s stay in power to beyond two terms which should expire in 2028.
This followed remarks by the president that he will be around in 2030. Although the statement is vague and ambiguous, members of the public interpreted it to mean that he meant that he will still be in power even in 2030.
More: <a href="https://twitter.com/BitiTendai/status/1207177397575077889">Tendai Biti</a>

BITI: "The Constitution Can’t Be Butchered On The Altar Of Personal Ambition," As Cabinet Approves Constitutional Amendment Bill

Here’s a summary of some important stories you might have missed over the weekend:
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/13/new-vehicle-licence-fees-pdf/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">New Vehicle Licence Fees (PDF)</a></h2>
The government has increased vehicle license fees from ZWL $200 per 4 months to $9,000 per 12 months.
 
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/13/trevor-ncube-interviews-chief-ndiweni-speaks-history-of-the-appointment-of-ndiweni-chiefs/">Trevor Ncube Interviews Chief Ndiweni</a></h2>
He speaks about the current controversy of the Ndiweni chieftain and attempts by government to remove him. Separately, MDC Leader, commented that government should not play a role in the removal of traditional leaders arguing that “<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/14/full-thread-chamisa-responds-to-eds-removal-of-chief-ndiweni/">A rightful leader cannot be imposed on a people.</a>” Following his ‘removal’ a <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/14/gofundme-account-set-up-to-buy-expelled-chief-ndiweni-a-car/">GoFundMe campaign created to raise funds for a car for the chief</a> was heavily criticized by some quarters.
 
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/14/marry-chiwenga-snubs-zanu-pf-congress/">The Weekend Marry Chiwenga’s Woes Began</a></h2>
On Saturday, journalists noted that Marry Chiwenga had not attended the Zanu PF Conference. Soon to follow was <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/14/vp-chiwengas-wife-marry-arrested-by-zacc/">her arrest on, initially, externalisation and misrepresentation</a>. The charges escalated rapidly <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/16/marry-chiwenga-charged-with-attempted-murder-full-text/">to attempted murder the a day later</a>. Exiled former minister, Jonathan Moyo commented that “<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/15/if-theres-a-crime-here-its-zaccs-shocking-involvement-jonathan-moyo-on-marry-chiwenga-charge-sheet/">If there’s a crime here, it’s ZACC’s shocking involvement</a>.” Similar sentiments were shared widely on social media.
 
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/14/watch-male-hairdressers-making-a-killing-in-harare/">Hairdressers making a killing</a></h2>
<div class="jetpack-video-wrapper"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" loading="lazy" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_IZgokE_fAk?feature=oembed" title="Male Hairdressers Take Over Zimbabwe? | Documentary" width="640"></iframe></div>
 
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/12/zesa-escalates-load-shedding-to-24-hours-per-day/">24 Hour Load-shedding</a></h2>
ZESA has said load shedding is now being implemented over and above the advertised schedule. Some areas in Zimbabwe are going for more than 18 hours without power.
In an unrelated incident, a student died after <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/13/diaspora-student-electrocuted-by-illegal-zesa-connection/">stepping onto an uninsulated electric wire</a> at his parents’ house in Lupane. The cable was apparently part of an illegal electricity connection.
 
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/11/you-cant-do-something-good-in-zim-mushekwi-regrets-buying-bus-for-caps-united/">“You Can’t Do Something Good In Zim”</a></h2>
Former <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Caps_United_Football_Club" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Caps United</a> forward <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nyasha_Mushekwi" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Nyasha Mushekwi</a> was left extremely disappointed following the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Revenue_Authority" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Zimbabwe Revenue Authority’s (ZIMRA)</a> decision to sequestrate the bus he bought for his former club pending review of duty.
 
<h2><a href="https://www.bigsr.co.uk/single-post/2019/12/14/Big-Saturday-Read-The-regime-and-its-enablers">Enablers!</a></h2>
Alex Magaisa dedicated his Big Saturday Read to what he called “Regime Enablers” – a variety of individuals and groups who help them to gain power and later to maintain it.
 
<h2 class="post-title"><a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/ambassadors-dash-for-safety-as-marauding-zanu-pf-youths-storm-jonathan-moyo-book-launch/">Jonathan Moyo’s Excelgate Launched in Harare</a></h2>
Excelgate: How Zimbabwe’s 2018 Presidential Election Was Stolen was launched at SAPES Trust in Harare on 17 December. Ambassadors attending the launch reportedly had to rush for safety as Zanu PF youths stormed the launch of a book that supposedly, reveals how the 2018 election was rigged by Zanu PF and the military.
 
<h2 class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/15/hefty-fines-for-multi-tier-pricing-and-other-pricing-models/">Hefty Fines For Multi Tier Pricing And “Other” Pricing Models</a></h2>
 
<h2 class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/15/87-schools-recorded-0-passrates-in-the-2019-zimsec-grade-7-exams/">87 Schools Recorded 0% Passrates In The 2019 ZIMSEC Grade 7 Exams</a></h2>
 
<h2 class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/15/japan-reveal-why-japanese-companies-are-avoiding-zimbabwe/">Japan Reveal Why Japanese Companies Are Avoiding Zimbabwe</a></h2>
 
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/11/we-are-no-longer-short-of-foreign-exchange-eddie-cross/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">We Are No Longer Short Of Foreign Exchange – Eddie Cross</a></h2>
 
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/15/first-capital-bank-chair-steps-down-over-corruption-allegations-at-previous-company/">First Capital Bank Chair Steps Down Over Corruption Allegations At Previous Company</a></h2>

Roundup: Important Stories You May Have Missed

President Emmerson Mnangagwa who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF), has promoted three Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) Group Captains to the rank of Air Commodore, 17 Wing Commanders to Group Captain and 31 Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) Majors to the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel.
The promotions which were made under the Defence Act are with effect from December 5.
Speaking during the investiture of the Air Force officers, AFZ Commander Air Marshal Elson Moyo challenged the officers to continue working hard and maintain guiding principles and values. He said:
<blockquote>Your promotion today is a true reflection of the confidence that the ZDF has in your ability to perform at a higher level.
This is a reward for your hard work and steadfastness towards serving our country, Zimbabwe. This translates to more workload and greater responsibility.</blockquote>
Brigadier-General Milton Bvudzijena who conferred the ranks to the newly promoted Lieutenant-Colonels at Army Headquarters said that officers had a duty to complement government efforts in addressing the socio-economic crisis in the country.
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/president-promotes-51-zdf-officers/">The Herald</a>

ED Promotes 51 Zimbabwe Defence Forces Officers

At <a href="https://www.pindula.com/za/w/economic-freedom-fighters-eff/">EFF</a>‘s just ended Elective Conference, President of the party, Julius Malema encouraged exiled former minister in Robert Mugabe’s government to unite. He warned that the EFF will support the cause and not individuals.
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<blockquote>…Former ministers of President Mugabe, you must put aside your egos and come together. We cannot have a situation where you are all in exile but people are promoting individual campaigns, and making t-shirts and all types of things in their names.
We will not support individuals. We will support the cause. We are not going to support any individual who think that he’s bigger than the cause. If you’re not going to come together, joining forces, including joining EFF Zimbabwe if possible, work together to build a formidable force. You can defeat Mnangagwa. But if there’s going to be competition of egos and people declaring themselves presidents even before you form an organisation</blockquote>
Robert Mugabe’s nephew and former minister <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Patrick_Zhuwao">Patrick Zhuwao</a>, attended the elective conference and was present during Malema’s address.
Over the past several weeks, former Zanu PF Commissar during Mugabe’s presidency, <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/13/kasukuwere-says-he-will-heed-citizens-call-to-lead-zimbabwe/">Savior Kasukuwere, launched a campaign to participate as a presidential candidate in the 2023 elections</a>. Kasukuwere, Jonathan Moyo and Zhuwao were he key politicians in the so-called G40 faction that supported Robert Mugabe and his wife Grace.
Responding to the Malema’s message, <a href="https://twitter.com/ProfJNMoyo/status/1206640297897349120">Jonathan Moyo said on Twitter</a>:
<blockquote>Eternal words of wisdom from @Julius_S_Malema; words which those with ears must not only hear but also take heed. By definition politics is not for narcissists bent on possessive individualism but for collectives that put people first in principled pursuit of the public good!</blockquote>

Malema Encourages Exiled G40 Faction Members To Unite Against Mnangagwa

Fuel shortages ravaging the country have opened the door for massive corruption at service stations especially in Harare the Herald reports. It has been reported that cars are being fitted with huge tanks in order for them to hoard fuel for resale.
Others allegations are that motorists are paying fuel attendants so that their cars can be moved from their current positions to the front.
Speaking to the publication about the corruption issues at service stations, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Energy_Regulatory_Authority">ZERA</a> CEO Eddington Mazambani said:
<blockquote>I have also received a report implicating a certain service station in Harare in such corrupt practices. For now, I cannot disclose the name of the service station, but we are investigating the case in conjunction with the security agents to flush out such activities</blockquote>
Fuel shortages started shortly after yesteryear’s harmonised elections and have been the norm ever since.
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/service-stations-breed-corruption/">The Herald</a>

Service Stations, Harare's Corruption Breeding Ground

Apex Council president Mr Cecilia Alexander has dismissed reports on social media purporting that civil servants will get a $500 cushioning allowance, the Chronicle reports.
According to the publication this message has been circulating on social media:
<blockquote>civil servants to get $500 cushion by December 18. The special payment involved an allocation of $1 billion set asideto address the plight of civil servants The special assistance of $500 for civil servants on grade E5 and the $250 payment for government pensioners, will also be paid on 18 December said Finance Minister Prof <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mthuli_Ncube">Mthuli Ncube</a></blockquote>
However, Mrs Alexander in an interview with the Chronicle dispelled the rumours and said:
<blockquote>We met Government and we presented the plight of civil servants in terms of the festive season and also their monthly salaries and we suggested that we really need a cushioning before Christmas, Government has not yet responded and what is circulating on social media is not true</blockquote>
This comes at a time when the govt had not increased the civil servants’ salaries despite inflation which was <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/11/15/monthly-inflation-jumps-up-in-october-finance-minister-projects-it-would-slow-down/">forecasted to be above 440% in October 2019</a>
More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/apex-council-dismisses-social-media-reports-on-civil-servants-allowances/">The Chronicle</a>

No Cushioning Allowance For Civil Servants - Apex Council Dismisses Social Media Rumours

A 21-year-old gold panner from <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Gokwe_South">Gokwe South</a> reportedly fatally axed his own father and brother accusing them of bewitching him, the Chronicle reports. Alster Chikafa killed his brother Alfred, who was trying to restrain him after he started attacking their father who later on died in hospital from the injuries he sustained during Alster’s violent tantrums.
The accused reportedly also set a neighbour’s hut on fire and axed his father’s own oxen first before he committed the heinous crime. Sources that spoke to the publication about the incident said:
<blockquote>Alster was shouting that he wanted to kill more people. Many villagers were involved in the scuffle to subdue him before handing him over to the police.
He had recently returned from his gold panning in Mazowe. He accused his father of bewitching him causing him to lead a life of poverty despite making a lot of money from gold panning.
He dashed to his neighbour, Nyaradzai Nduna’s homestead and set fire to his bedroom hut. He was shouting that Nduna would die because he owes him a lot of money and had cheated him as they shared proceeds from their gold panning.
He said he wanted to finish him off and called him the devil’s agent.After the attack, Mr Chikafa who was bleeding profusely, staggered to a neighbour’s homestead where he sought help. Alfred tried to calm down his brother but Alster struck him five times on the head and he died on the spot</blockquote>
Police in Gokwe confirmed the incident, the duo was buried on Saturday in their home village.
More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/gold-panner-21-axes-father-brother-to-death-in-witchcraft-row/">The Chronicle</a>

Gold Panner Fatally Axe His Own Father And Brother

The Finance Minister has proposed to reduce allocation to ministries that fail to account for funds disbursed to them by treasury in the national budget, the Standard reports.
Ncube said this while responded to questions raised by the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/National_Assembly">National assembly</a>:
<blockquote>In terms of budgeting in my previous job we used to cut back on budgets for departments that did not account in full on how they had used resources or badly used resources because we had a performance-based budgeting process. But in a sense, this is what we have migrated to.</blockquote>
Auditor General Miriam Chiri’s audit exposed serious anomalies on how funds allocated to some ministries are used.
More: <a href="https://www.thestandard.co.zw/2019/12/15/ncube-promises-get-tough/">The Standard</a>

Mthuli Wants To Reduce Funding To Ministries That Fail To Account For Funds Given To Them By Treasury

The newly appointed Social Welfare Minister gave the NSSA board an ultimatum to restore order at the scandal-ridden entity in 2 weeks, The Standard reports.
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Paul_Mavima">Paul Mavima</a> has since written to the board asking for a progress report on the things he wanted to be normalised since the ultimatum he gave them expired, the board has reportedly asked for more time.
According to the publication:
<blockquote>The minister’s intervention followed the board’s failure to deal with a brewing labour crisis involving the suspension of 24 managers, which insiders said had the potential to drain thousands of dollars from NSSA in legal fees.</blockquote>
The Minister has since refused to give the NSSA board and extension and told them they had to have their house in order by year-end. The new Minister reportedly also asked for the board’s CVs.
More: <a href="https://www.thestandard.co.zw/2019/12/15/pressure-mounts-nssa-board/">The Standard</a>

Scandal Ridden NSSA Under Fire, Board Given An Ultimatum To Restore Order In 2 Weeks

All the students that sat for their grade 7 examinations in 87 primary schools failed, the Sunday Mail reports. 87 school mainly in the rural areas performed badly and the ministry is said to be investigating the root cause for that.
The newly appointed Primary and Secondary Education Minister <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Cain_Mathema">Cain Mathema</a> commented on the issue and said:
<blockquote>And as a ministry, we are in the process of finding out why they failed. We want to find out from headmasters, inspectors, district education officers, from everyone who is involved in the education of our children.
We can look for someone to blame but all of us, from Government, parents, school development committees (SDCs), Members of Parliament (MPs) and teachers, have a part to play. We cannot expect our students to perform better when teachers are sharing houses, when the students are learning in mud-and-pole blocks. We have a collective responsibility to address these things.</blockquote>
In contrast to urban schools, the publication noted that there is a huge disparity between rural and urban schools performance when it comes to these exams.
More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/shocking-discrepancies-between-rural-urban-schools">The Sunday Mail</a>

87 Schools Recorded 0% Passrates In The 2019 ZIMSEC Grade 7 Exams

The government has managed to rehabilitate 161 kilometres of tarred roads countrywide, the Sunday Mail reports. The rehabilitation has so far used up US $900 Million.
The Sunday Mail reports this progress:
 
<ol>
<li>Government has completed laying asphalt over the 2,7-kilometre stretch of the Bindura-Mt Darwin-Mukumbura road (Bindura town).</li>
<li>Work on a 16km stretch of the Mt Darwin to Mukumbura road is now 78 % (12,8 km) complete,</li>
<li>80 % has been covered on the planned 10km stretch of the St Albert- Dotito road.</li>
<li>Government is halfway through laying asphalt on 10km of the Guruve-Kanyemba road</li>
<li>Progress on the Bindura-Matepatepa road, on which 10km had also been earmarked for an asphalt overlay, has been relatively slow, with only 3,6km (36 %) having been done.</li>
<li>Construction of the 10km Guyu-Manama road is 60 % complete,</li>
<li>Widening of the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Esigodini">Esigodini</a> tollgate currently stands at 88 %.</li>
<li>The 55km Ngundu-Tanganda road in Manicaland was recently completed, but construction of a 16km stretch from Murambinda to<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Birchenough_Bridge"> Birchenough Bridge</a> road is only at 21% after 3,4km were worked on.</li>
<li>70 % of the Golden Valley-Sanyati road has been done, while the Alaska-Copper Queen road is halfway through.</li>
<li>The Rutenga-<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zvishavane">Zvishavane</a> road construction is at 60 %</li>
<li>The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Chivi">Chivi</a>-Mandamabwe-Tokwe is 57%</li>
<li>Progress on the Kapota-Zimuto road construction in Masvingo is at 69%</li>
<li>The rehabilitation programme has also seen Phase Two on the Harare-Gweru road project targeting 15km covering over 75%.</li>
<li>One of the key milestones this year involves completion of the Norton road-over-rail bridge, which will be commissioned soon.</li>
<li>However, work on the dualisation of the Harare-Mutare road managed to cover 11km of the planned 16km.</li>
</ol>
More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/govt-rehabilitates-more-than-161km-of-road">The Sunday Mail </a>

Govt Has Managed To Rehabilitate 161KMs Of Roads

Parents are reportedly hiring out their children to beggars handlers for a commission in Harare The Sunday Mail reports. The child beggars are reportedly transported by their handlers from areas around Harare like <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Epworth">Epworth</a> and Hopley and assigned places to beg from where they beg the whole day and surrender takings to their masters and or handlers who will then pay their respective parents a commission.
Vendors are reportedly the ones who are in the trade of hiring out their children as they can monitor them from a distance. They are reportedly charging ZWL$30 to $40 per child, and a child is reportedly given a target of ZW$100 per day.
The publication spoke to a vendor who shed more light on the child beggars for hire scheme and said:
<blockquote>The child is given a specific target per day. Their commission is given to the parents. In the event that they fail to reach the target, the outstanding figure is deducted from the parents’ commission.</blockquote>

Vendors Reportedly Hiring Out Their Children To Beggars Handlers For A Commission

Professor <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Welshman_Ncube">Welshman Ncube</a> has responded to the former Vice President and his son’s lawsuit and called their conduct unethical unprofessional and malicious, Sunday News reports.
Through his legal team, Webb, Low and Barry Attorneys the Professor responded to <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Phelekezela_Mphoko">Phelekhezela</a> and Siqokoqela Mphoko’s <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/12/11/former-vp-mpoko-sues-chamisas-deputy-over-choppies-payout/">lawsuit which demands that he pays them US $1.5 million</a> for allegedly squandering part of the $2.9 million they got as their exit package from Choppies said:
<blockquote>…the above conduct is unethical, unprofessional and calculated to cause irreparable damage to the good name of and reputation of our client. We therefore highlight the lack of professional courtesy and ethics in the manner and circumstances in which you caused the summons to be issued. 
On Monday, 9th December 2019, your office went to the High Court registry and had, as per practice, one copy of the summons date stamped and given a case number to enable you to go to the payment office to render payment for issuance of the summons. 
You did not proceed to make any payment, nor did you return to the registry to produce proof of payment but left the High Court without any process having been issued and circulated to the media copies of the single copy of summons which have the date stamp of the registry and allocated case number.</blockquote>
More; <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/mphokos-desperate-confused-and-malicious-prof-ncube/">Sunday News</a>

The Mphokos' Conduct Is Unethical, Unprofessional And Malicious - Welshman Ncube

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/CAPS_United">Caps United</a> and <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/FC_Platinum">FC Platinum</a> are clashing for the league title this afternoon, ZBC reports. The 2 giants will clash and the winner for today’s match will walk away from the 2019 league champion. However FC Platinum will walk away from the champion if they draw.
According to the publication:
<blockquote>Saturday will go down memory lane as it will be the first time in the history of Zimbabwean football that teams fighting to win the Premier Soccer League title will face-off on the final day of the season.The 2019 Premier Soccer League will end in spectacular fashion this time around as title contenders Caps United and FC Platinum will face each other at the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/National_Sports_Stadium">National Sports Stadium</a> in Harare, something which has never happened before in the history of Zimbabwean football.</blockquote>
Today is the last matchday for the 2019 season.

CAPS United  FC Platinum Clash For The 2019 PSL Tittle Today

Popular vocal traditional leader, Felix Nhlanhlayamangwe Ndiweni has been stripped of his chieftainship with effect from 30 November 2019 ZBC News reports. According to the publication, this was after his family successfully proved that he is not the rightful heir to the throne.
According to ZBC:
<blockquote>The ministry has also instructed the Umguza district development council to recover the government allocated vehicle, all chief’s regalia and any other state assets in his custody with the assistance of the ZRP, and liaise with the Ndiweni clan to select a candidate for appointment as substantive Chief Ndiweni.</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Chief_Ndiweni">Chief Ndiweni</a> was in August jailed an effective 18 months for destroying one of his people s’ property together with his 22 subjects.
More:<a href="https://www.zbc.co.zw/umguza-ndiweni-stripped-off-chieftainship/"> ZBC </a>

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