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The Government of Zimbabwe is exploring legal avenues, including international arbitration, to recover 17 fire tenders seized by Lithuania while being transported from Belarus, which is under EU sanctions.
The equipment was confiscated in March 2023 at Klaipeda’s Malku Bay seaport.
In February 2024, a Zimbabwean delegation, led by Attorney-General Virginia Mabiza, visited Lithuania to negotiate the tenders’ release, but these efforts proved unsuccessful.
Recent reports indicating that Lithuania’s plans to donate the fire tenders to Ukraine have prompted renewed action from the Zimbabwean government.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/zim-ups-efforts-to-recover-17-seized-fire-tenders">The Sunday Mail</a>, Mabiza said that Zimbabwe would pursue all legal options if diplomatic negotiations fail. Said Mabiza:
<blockquote>
We will explore the most viable legal route to take after exhausting all the diplomatic channels at our disposal.
The explanation by the Lithuanian attorney-general has been that the fire tenders or certain components on the fire tenders were manufactured by a Belarusian company, which is on EU sanctions, hence could not be allowed to pass through their port.
Through diplomatic channels, we have been engaging the other side with a view to recovering the fire tenders.
On February 27, 2024, I was accompanied by Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Sweden Mrs Priscilla Misihairabwi to Lithuania to discuss the issue with my counterpart, Ms Nida Grunskiene.
During the said meeting, we explained Zimbabwe’s position regarding the fire tenders, which were legitimately and lawfully purchased by the Government of Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
Mabiza said they explained the circumstances surrounding Zimbabwe’s procurement of the fire trucks, prompting Lithuania to request proof of purchase.
She said they subsequently supplied Lithuania with all relevant documents to support their claim of ownership. Added Mabiza:
<blockquote>
Much to our surprise, we did not receive any further communication from Lithuania regarding the matter.
The fire engines are specifically made for the Zimbabwean rural terrain and are crucial for firefighting and emergency responses.
Their confiscation undermines the country’s ability to safeguard its communities and properties from fire disasters, thereby exposing the most vulnerable communities in Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
Mabiza said Zimbabwe was concerned over recent media reports suggesting that Lithuania might donate the confiscated fire tenders to Ukraine.
She revealed that she is verifying the authenticity of these reports and emphasized that if they prove accurate, Zimbabwe will respond according to international law.
Mabiza reiterated that Zimbabwe considers itself an innocent third party in this matter.
Lithuania’s attorney-general Grunskiene was quoted by Ukrainian media recently stating that the trucks could be handed over to the war-torn country.
She said that a pre-trial investigation is underway regarding the 17 fire trucks intended for Zimbabwe, which have been confiscated due to sanctions against the manufacturing company and Zimbabwe itself.
Grunskiene also said that the possibility of delivering these vehicles to Ukraine is being considered. 
She confirmed that they have informed the Zimbabwean attorney-general of the confiscation and are awaiting a response on whether the Zimbabwean government will appeal the decision.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Zimbabwe is trying to get back 17 fire trucks taken by Lithuania. The trucks were seized in March 2023. Zimbabwe sent a delegation to negotiate, but it didn't work. Lithuania might give the trucks to Ukraine. Zimbabwe is checking if this is true. They say they bought the trucks legally. The trucks are important for firefighting in Zimbabwe. Lithuania says the trucks were made by a company under EU sanctions. Zimbabwe is exploring legal options to get their trucks back.

Zimbabwe Explores Legal Options To Recover 17 Fire Tenders Seized By Lithuania

Lithuania is considering sending 17 fire engines to Ukraine that were originally intended for Zimbabwe.
According to <a href="https://bns.lt/naujiena/lietuva-svarsto-sulaikytus-zimbabvei-skirtus-ugniagesiu-automobilius-perduoti-ukrainai-uqynxekb">BNS</a>, Zimbabwe purchased the vehicles from Belarus last year, but they were impounded in Klaipėda, Lithuania, due to sanctions against Belarus.
Lithuania’s Prosecutor General, Nida Grunskienė, said that they are evaluating the possibility of transferring these fire engines to Ukraine, which is currently under attack from Russia. Said Grunskienė:
<blockquote>
Yes, a pre-trial investigation is being conducted, and the prosecutor has decided if I’m not mistaken, that the 17 vehicles that were to be shipped to Zimbabwe should be confiscated and the issue of their possible delivery to Ukraine is being considered.
We have a decision by the prosecutor in which we are informing the Zimbabwean prosecutor’s office that these 17 fire engines have been confiscated because the company that manufactured these vehicles is subject to sanctions and Zimbabwe itself is also subject to sanctions.
</blockquote>
She said Zimbabwe had also been informed of the decision through diplomatic channels. Added Grunskienė:
<blockquote>
We are waiting to see if they will exercise their right to appeal.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe’s attorney general visited Lithuania this year to request the return of the vehicles.
Meanwhile, Lithuania’s neighbour Latvia regularly donates cars confiscated from drunk drivers to Ukraine.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Lithuania has 17 fire trucks meant for Zimbabwe, but they got seized and might be given to Ukraine instead. The trucks were bought by Zimbabwe from Belarus last year, but Lithuania stopped them because of sanctions against Belarus. Now, Lithuania is thinking of sending these trucks to Ukraine because they are in need during the war with Russia. Zimbabwe has been told about this decision, and they may appeal. The attorney general of Zimbabwe visited Lithuania this year to ask for the trucks back. Latvia has a habit of giving cars taken from drunk drivers to Ukraine too.

Lithuania May Hand Over Detained Fire Trucks Intended For Zimbabwe To Ukraine

President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s wife, Auxillia Mnangagwa, is leading a large delegation of female business executives and a dance group to Belarus.
During the visit, she held a meeting with Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko in Minsk.
According to the Belarusian state-owned publication <a href="https://eng.belta.by/president/view/lukashenko-meets-with-auxillia-mnangagwa-pledges-to-honor-all-agreements-with-zimbabwe-159673-2024/">BelTA</a>, during the meeting,  Lukashenko expressed his determination to implement all agreements reached between Belarus and Zimbabwe. He said:
<blockquote>
I am very glad that you have come to us when we are celebrating Slavic culture [the international arts festival Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk] and have brought a small piece of Zimbabwean culture with you.
You know very well our attitude to you, your country and your president. We are ready to offer all kinds of support and services during your stay in Belarus and later on.
</blockquote>
Referring to Mnangagwa as his “old friend”, Lukashenko added that he is looking forward to the Zimbabwean leader’s expected visit to Belarus. He said:
<blockquote>
You know that we are looking forward to the visit of the president of Zimbabwe to Belarus. We will provide him with all possible assistance in his mission. We will try our best to bring all our ideas and plans to fruition.
You are well familiar with Belarus. I know that you are accompanied by representatives of the business community of Zimbabwe.
It’s good that these are women. They have a sharper eye. They will take notice of all the best things that Belarus has, including the things that we are ready to jointly implement in Zimbabwe and elsewhere.
Please convey to Emmerson [President of Zimbabwe Emmerson Mnangagwa], my old friend, our best wishes and tell him about our determination to implement our agreements…
We really want to work in your country and do something useful for the people of Zimbabwe. You can count on us.
</blockquote>
According to ZimLive, the First Lady is travelling to Belarus in a Turkey-registered Gulfstream 550 private jet with the registration code TC-ALG. This type of private jet is reported to cost around $11,000 per hour.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Auxillia Mnangagwa, the wife of Zimbabwe's President, went to Belarus with a group of women in business and dancers. She met with the President of Belarus, who promised to help Zimbabwe with agreements. The President of Belarus said he is excited for Zimbabwe's President to visit. He wants to work with Zimbabwe and help improve the country. Auxillia Mnangagwa flew to Belarus in an expensive private jet. It cost $11,000 per hour. The visit is seen as a way to strengthen ties between the two countries.

Auxillia Mnangagwa Meets With Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko

President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s spokesperson George Charamba has hit back at online criticism and derision after a tractor imported from Belarus failed to start at Mushagashe Youth Vocational Training Centre during the Robert Mugabe National Youth Day commemorations on Wednesday.
Mnangagwa, who donated the tractor to Mushagashe Youth Vocational Training Centre, was behind the wheel when the vehicle failed to start, much to the embarrassment of his aides.
Charamba, who is the Deputy Chief Secretary in the Office of the President and Cabinet (Presidential Communications), hit out at people who mocked the Belarusian-made tractors, which some critics say are second-hand. He posted on X:
<blockquote>
Zimbabwe bought over 3 000 tractors of varying power from the sister Republic of Belarus. Apart from units which were given to communities and interest groups, the rest are being sold to farmers on a commercial basis by a company called BISON.
Farmers secure credit lines from banks, principally CBZ and AFC. They pay over three years. The deal is purely commercial, which means a good number of units are still available – have been – since the shipment of the units some two or so years ago.
The launch was done publicly, with the media participating. Equally, the tractors are being kept at the Hatcliffe workshop yard of the Ministry of Agriculture.
You easily see them as you drive in whichever direction. Until a unit is bought, it is kept in this yard, meaning consumables, including batteries, expectedly need attention ahead of collection.
This is basic to any buying farmer or, more easily, to anyone who has purchased a vehicle from any garage.
It is thus amateurish to suggest that a tractor whose ignition fails to kick in amounts to a mechanical failure or sub-standard purchase.
I am a proud owner of a 130hp Belarusian tractor which I secured at the beginning of the season.
</blockquote>
Critics say Zimbabwe has become a dumping ground for substandard products not only from Belarus but also from the East European country’s close ally and neighbour, Russia.
In 2022 Zimbabwe’s honorary consul and Mnangagwa’s close associate Alexander Zingman reportedly got a US$62 million deal to supply fire tenders to local authorities.
Zimbabwe bought eighteen (18) medical emergency helicopters from Russia about nine months ago but the planes are still grounded.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Charamba Responds To Online Criticism After Belarusian Tractor "Embarrasses" Mnangagwa

Officials from Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Defence and their Belarussian counterparts signed a military cooperation action plan in Harare on Tuesday, 20 February.
State-owned Belarusian national news agency, <a href="https://eng.belta.by/society/view/belarus-zimbabwe-sign-military-cooperation-action-plan-156188-2024/">BeITA</a> reported that members of the Belarusian delegation are part of the defence committee of the Belarus-Zimbabwe Standing Commission for Cooperation.
The signing ceremony was attended by Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Belarus Ignatius Graham Mudzimba, and Belarus’ Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Igor Marshalov.
The action plan was signed for the first time.
Meanwhile, Belarus is expected to begin delivering tractors and combine harvesters to Zimbabwe under the agricultural mechanization programme this year.
Marshalov told reporters that cooperation between Belarus and Zimbabwe has been making a lot of progress recently. He said:
<blockquote>
This year we are starting to supply tractor equipment and combine harvesters.
In the 1980s, Zimbabwe was dubbed the breadbasket of Africa. They need a large number of tractors and combines.
This year, it is one of two countries in Africa that has met domestic demand for wheat, and there is room for improvement. We will be happy to assist Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
Following the launch of the agricultural mechanization programme in 2020, Belarus has supplied more than 1,800 tractors and about 80 combine harvesters to Zimbabwe.
The third phase of the programme provides for the supply of agricultural equipment worth over US$66 million, namely more than 3 700 units of tractor equipment and 60 combine harvesters.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe-Belarus Sign Military Cooperation Action Plan

Zimbabwe has received around 2,000 high-tech tractors, 80 combine harvesters, and other agricultural equipment from Belarus over the past three years. This equipment has been provided at concessional rates under the Belarus Farm Mechanisation Facility, to modernise the agricultural sector and increase productivity, <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/zimbabwe-gets-2-000-tractors-from-belarus">The Sunday Mail</a> reported citing authorities.
The machinery has been distributed to all districts in the country. The implementation of Phase 3 of the facility has begun, and it is expected to deliver an additional 4,000 tractors starting this year.
Eng. Edwin Zimunga, the chief director responsible for agricultural engineering, mechanisation, post-harvest agro-processing, and soil conservation, highlighted that the delivery of this machinery is a significant step towards modernising local agriculture. He said:
<blockquote>
The range of equipment that was delivered through the government-to-government programme covers issues to do with land preparation and tillage, planting and sowing, chemigation, fertigation, as well as weeding.
They also cover issues around harvesting through modern combine harvesters, and post-harvest agro-processing is also not left out . . .
 To date, out of Phase 1 and Phase 2, we now have in excess of 2 000 tractors, 80 combine harvesters and many other attachments that are being used in the agricultural mechanisation space.
</blockquote>
The range of equipment provided covers various aspects of farming, including land preparation, planting, irrigation, harvesting, and post-harvest processing. Modern combine harvesters have been introduced to improve the efficiency of harvesting operations.
Under Phase 3, there will be a focus on extending and upgrading strategic grain reserves. Farmers can access this equipment through farmer-friendly banks, such as CBZ, AFC Land Bank, Women’s Bank, and Youth Bank. They only need to make an initial payment of 15% and pay the remaining balance within an agreed period.
This initiative has resulted in a notable improvement in Zimbabwe’s agricultural machinery fleet, with the country now having 13,486 tractors and 303 combine harvesters, compared to 7,000 tractors in 2019.
Belarus has established BiSON Agro Machinery, a company in Harare that offers after-sales services, to ensure sustained support and maintenance for the equipment. The company also facilitates knowledge exchange and training between Belarusian and local engineers, enabling them to repair, maintain, and operate the machinery effectively.
Five years ago, Zimbabwe announced that it needed 40 000 tractors, at a time when only 9000 were available to work Zimbabwe’s 4 130 000ha of arable land.  The southern African nation looked to Belarus and other suppliers in a bid to plug the gap.
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/02/01/alexander-zingmans-aftrade-a-main-beneficiary-of-agreements-between-zimbabwe-belarus/">One of the main beneficiaries</a> of business agreements between Zimbabwe and Belarus is Aftrade, a business headed by infamous Belarusian tycoon <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Alexander_Zingman">Alexander Zingman.</a> He was made Honourary Consul of Zimbabwe to the Republic of Belarus in January 2019. Aftrade has obtained contracts to develop grain storage facilities, supply tractors and harvesters to the government, and secure equipment deals in the mining and logging industries thanks to the visit of Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko to Zimbabwe.
<div class="in_article">
Zimbabwe also signed a US$51 million deal with US company John Deere for the supply of 1 300 tractors, 80 combine harvesters and other equipment. Zimbabwe engaged with India’s Mahindra, which abandoned a plan in 2018 to set up an assembly plant in Zimbabwe due to forex shortages.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>
</div>

Zimbabwe Has Received 2,000 High-Tech Tractors And Harvesters From Belarus To Boost Agriculture

Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko has appointed new ambassadors to China, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Serbia, and Indonesia.
According to a <a href="https://eng.belta.by/president/view/lukashenko-appoints-ambassadors-to-china-zimbabwe-south-africa-serbia-indonesia-163454-2023/">BelTA</a> report, Belarus’ new ambassador to Zimbabwe is Igor Marshalov.
Marshalov previously held the position of Deputy Chairman of the State Control Committee and Director of the Financial Investigations Department. Part of the report read:
<blockquote>
Igor Marshalov, who had previously held the position of Deputy Chairman of the State Control Committee and Director of the Financial Investigations Department, was appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Belarus to the Republic of Zimbabwe.
Igor Bely was appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Belarus to the Republic of South Africa with concurrent accreditation to the Republic of Botswana, the Republic of Mozambique and the Republic of Namibia.
Before that, he had served as Head of the Main Directorate for Asia, Africa and Latin America of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
</blockquote>
Lukashenko visited Zimbabwe in January this year for talks with President Emmerson Mnangagwa as the two countries sought to deepen their ties.
Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International said the talks were aimed at strengthening “the existing excellent relations” between the two countries, in areas including politics, mining and agriculture.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/11/18/president-mnangagwa-reverses-the-appointment-of-general-valerio-sibanda-to-zanu-pf-politburo/">Pindula News</a>

Belarusian President Appoints Ambassador To Zimbabwe

Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko has congratulated Zimbabwe’s President-elect Emmerson Mnangagwa following his announced victory in the Hamornised Elections held last week.
In a statement published by Belarusian State-owned publication <a href="https://eng.belta.by/president/view/lukashenko-congratulates-emmerson-mnangagwa-on-winning-re-election-161317-2023/">BelTA</a>, Lukashenko said under Mnangagwa’s leadership, Zimbabwe will continue on a development trajectory. He said:
<blockquote>
The electoral campaign has once again demonstrated the triumph of people’s justice in Zimbabwe.
The voting results have shown significant public support for the Vision 2023 strategy and its outcomes that were achieved thanks to you and your government despite the difficult foreign policy conditions.
Under your leadership, the country will certainly continue to gradually build up its economic, industrial, scientific and cultural potential, and strengthen its position in the international arena.
It is gratifying to see that Belarus-Zimbabwe cooperation remains on a solid footing.
This was reaffirmed during our meeting in Harare in January and during numerous visits of government delegations that took place afterwards.
Belarus will make every effort to advance the traditionally friendly and trust-based relations between Minsk and Harare to the level of strategic partnership.
</blockquote>
Lukashenko wished Mnangagwa good health and success in his responsible work, and the people of Zimbabwe – peace and prosperity.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Belarusian President, Aleksandr Lukashenko Congratulates Mnangagwa On Winning Re-election

First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa has invited a Belarusian company that produces baby food, to consider expanding its operations to Zimbabwe.
Mnangagwa, who has been leading a delegation to Belarus that consists of her twin sons, Collins and Sean, visited the company, Bellakt.
Her visit to Belarus follows a similar visit by the country’s president Alexander Lukashenko to Harare in February.
Speaking in an interview with Belarus State-owned paper, BelTA, Mnangagwa said the expansion of Bellakt’s operations to Zimbabwe will also help other countries in the Southern African region. She said:
<blockquote>
I am very glad I have visited the company. We learned that the company produces baby food for children from 0 to 3 years old.
We want to establish cooperation with the company to consider the expansion of its production, and launch its production in Zimbabwe. This would contribute to the development of our country.
Zimbabwe is located in the center of the Southern African region. The countries around us could also benefit from such cooperation.
Both mothers and women in our country would also welcome such cooperation.
It is very important when a child’s health can be ensured from the earliest days.
</blockquote>
Grodno Oblast Governor Vladimir Karanik said Bellakt has enough capacity to meet Zimbabwe’s baby food requirements. Said Karanik:
<blockquote>
We discussed various options for cooperation between Grodno Oblast and Zimbabwe.
Mrs. Auxillia Mnangagwa pays a lot of attention to the health of women and the organization of children’s health.
This means good nutrition and access to medical care. Therefore, the production of baby food is, probably, one of the priorities of her visit.
We can fully satisfy Zimbabwe’s needs for baby food. The capacities of Bellakt are enough for that.
Given the geographical location of Zimbabwe and active interaction with its neighbours, it is proposed to consider the possibility of joint production, which will cover not only the needs of Zimbabwe but also other African countries.
</blockquote>
He said Bellakt plans to take part in the upcoming Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF).
Karanik said the exhibition will help the Belarusian company to continue the negotiations on the possibility of expanding to Zimbabwe.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Belarusian Infant Formula Manufacturing Company Plans To Expand To Zimbabwe

Harare West MP, Joanah Mamombe (MDC Alliance) says First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa and her two sons, Collins and Sean are not government officials and therefore, have no right to conduct government business with foreigners.
This comes after pictures of the First Lady and her sons in the company of controversial businessman, Aleksander Zingman, meeting Belarusian Foreign Affairs minister Sergei Aleinik were posted on the Information Ministry’s social media pages last Friday.
Mnangagwa and her entourage last week reportedly chartered a private plane, a Gulfstream G550, to Belarus.
Media reports from Belarus indicate that Mnangagwa met with President Aleksandr Lukashenko to discuss government business.
Under Zimbabwean law, first ladies do not hold official government positions.
Posting on Twitter, Mamombe, who is a member of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party led by Nelson Chamisa but was elected Harare West MP on an MDC Alliance ticket in 2018, said Zimbabwe’s future is being mortgaged in plain sight to benefit a few elites. She said:
<blockquote>
Auxillia and Sons (Pvt) LTD, are they government officials?
There is no minister in sight during those discussions which were called, “Deepening Bilateral relations”, by state media.
It is the First Lady and her sons doing govt business, in what capacity? To whose benefit?
The nation is being mortgaged in plain sight. The future of Zimbabwe is mortgaged for the benefit of an elite few.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Team Pachedu has urged Parliament to investigate the agreements that were signed between Mnangagwa and Belarusian officials. They wrote:
<blockquote>
Grace Mugabe never crossed this line. Auxillia Mnangagwa does not have the constitutional mandate to sign foreign agreements on behalf of Zimbabweans, or in the name of Zimbabwe. Parliament must probe this Belarus scandal!
</blockquote>
Ali Naka wrote:
<blockquote>
In what Capacity is Auxillia Mnangagwa meeting Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko? Is she now the Deputy President #GoldMafia
</blockquote>
When <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200010059/auxillia-belarus-trip-raises-eyebrows">NewsDay</a> contacted Presidential communications secretary Regis Chikowore for a comment, he said he could not comment on matters involving the First Lady.
When presidential spokesperson George Charamba was asked whether the First Lady’s Belarus visit was official or private, he kept saying: “Hello, hello, hello”.
Foreign Affairs ministry spokesperson Livit Mugejo also referred all questions to the First Lady’s office.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"Auxillia And Sons (Pvt) LTD", Mamombe Says Zimbabwe's Future Is Being Mortgaged

First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa last week reportedly chartered a private plane to Belarus with her twin sons, Collins and Sean.
<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200010059/auxillia-belarus-trip-raises-eyebrows">NewsDay</a> reported that Mnangagwa and her entourage hired a Gulfstream G550, whose average hourly rental rate is around US$10 900.
It takes an average of 10 hours to travel from Harare to Minsk, the Belarusian capital and this means a one-way trip costs US$109 000.
Media reports from Belarus indicate that Mnangagwa met with President Aleksandr Lukashenko to discuss government business.
Under Zimbabwean law, first ladies do not hold official government positions.
It is not yet clear under what arrangement Auxillia is conducting business on behalf of the State.
On Tuesday, pictures emerged of her engaged in a meeting with Lukashenko and his aides.
Pictures of the First Lady and her sons in the company of controversial businessman, Aleksander Zingman, meeting Belarusian Foreign Affairs minister Sergei Aleinik were posted on the Information Ministry’s social media pages last Friday.
Zingman was appointed honourary consul for Zimbabwe by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in 2019.
Presidential communications secretary Regis Chikowore told NewsDay that he could not comment on matters involving the First Lady.
When presidential spokesperson George Charamba was asked whether the First Lady’s Belarus visit was official or private, he kept saying: “Hello, hello, hello”.
Foreign Affairs ministry spokesperson Livit Mugejo also referred all questions to the First Lady’s office.
Addressing the media in the Belarusian capital, Minsk on 11 April 2023 after meeting Lukashenko, Mnangagwa said there were no topics deemed off-limits during the meeting. She said:
<blockquote>
We had a wonderful meeting with Mr. President. There were no closed topics between us. I felt absolutely at home. We discussed absolutely everything.
I can see now that our cooperation will move forward. He [the Belarusian president] has one important thing that we have, too. He is able and willing to work hard.
… I saw the care he takes for his country and his people. We saw how they take care of the children in hospitals.
That is why I told him: “Mr. President, let me tell you that you are not only a father – you are also a mother to your country.”
</blockquote>
Unusually, she did not travel with journalists from the State media.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Auxillia Mnangagwa's Trip To Belarus On A Chartered Plane Raises Eyebrows

The First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa addressed the media in the Belarusian capital, Minsk on 11 April 2023 after meeting President Aleksandr Lukashenko.
Mnangagwa, who is on a week-long visit to the East European country, said there were no topics deemed off-limits during her meeting with Lukashenko.
<a href="https://eng.belta.by/president/view/first-lady-of-zimbabwe-comments-on-talks-with-lukashenko-157996-2023/">BelTA</a> reported that Mnangagwa told the media that they “discussed absolutely everything.” She said:
<blockquote>
We had a wonderful meeting with Mr. President. There were no closed topics between us. I felt absolutely at home. We discussed absolutely everything.
I can see now that our cooperation will move forward. He [the Belarusian president] has one important thing that we have, too. He is able and willing to work hard.
… I saw the care he takes for his country and his people. We saw how they take care of the children in hospitals. 
That is why I told him: “Mr. President, let me tell you that you are not only a father – you are also a mother to your country.”
</blockquote>
The parties discussed exchange programmes and opportunities for Zimbabwean specialists to study at Belarusian universities in the professions that are in demand in Zimbabwe.
She said they discussed cooperation in various areas which included medicine, agriculture, and the mining industry, each of which affects the quality of people’s lives.
During her one-week stay in Belarus, Mnangagwa visited a number of enterprises and organizations of the Healthcare Ministry and the Belarusian infant nutrition company Bellakt in the Grodno Region.
She also held meetings at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Belarusian Women’s Union and visited the Khatyn Memorial complex.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Auxillia Mnangagwa Comments On Talks With President Lukashenko

First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa met Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko in Minsk on 11 April 2023.
According to <a href="https://eng.belta.by/president/view/lukashenko-meets-with-first-lady-of-zimbabwe-157992-2023/">BelTA</a>, Lukashenko said that Mnangagwa asked for help in establishing a system similar to the Belarusian one in the area of maternity services, help for children, especially newborns, and child nutrition. Lukashenko was quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
Dear Mrs. Auxillia Mnangagwa, as we agreed with the president, you are in Belarus today on a very important visit.
I am fulfilling the request of my friend President Emmerson so that the technologies that are in demand in Zimbabwe are in your country.
We are ready to help you implement several projects at the request of your country and your president to build high-tech enterprises. First of all, this concerns humanitarian activities.
In short, women and children are the priority, and Emmerson told me this many times during my visit to your country.
</blockquote>
Lukashenko said during his engagements with Mnangagwa or a recent State visit to Zimbabwe, they agreed that there was a need for a responsible person from Zimbabwe to oversee the implementation of the relevant programmes. He said:
<blockquote>
Frankly speaking, I told him that this responsible person should be you.
</blockquote>
Lukashenko said during her visit to Belarus, Mnangagwa got familiar with the opportunities available in the country. Said Lukashenko:
<blockquote>
The doors were open everywhere. So you are welcome to choose and decide, and we will start to act.
</blockquote>
Mnangagwa is on a visit to Belarus following the agreements on cooperation in humanitarian affairs reached by the two heads of state.
During her one-week stay in Belarus, Mnangagwa visited a number of enterprises and organizations of the Healthcare Ministry and the Belarusian infant nutrition company Bellakt in the Grodno Region.
She also held meetings at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Belarusian Women’s Union and visited the Khatyn Memorial complex.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Auxillia Mnangagwa Meets Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko In Minsk

Zimbabwe’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Frederick_Shava">Frederick Shava</a>, has said Zimbabwe will appoint an ambassador to Belarus in the coming months.
He made the remarks after meeting Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko in Minsk on March 28, according to <a href="https://eng.belta.by/politics/view/zimbabwe-to-appoint-ambassador-to-belarus-in-coming-months-157635-2023/">BelTA</a>.
The Zimbabwe delegation headed by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Frederick Shava is in Belarus on an official visit.
When journalists asked when Zimbabwe will name an ambassador to Belarus, Frederick Shava said:
<blockquote>
Belarus already runs an embassy in Zimbabwe. Based on the principles of reciprocity, Zimbabwe has recently opened its embassy in Minsk. We have already discussed the interior works in the premises where the embassy is located. And this will be done as quickly as possible. Only after that an ambassador will be appointed. This will not be long in coming, within the next few months.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe and Belarus have maintained diplomatic relations since Zimbabwe gained independence in 1980. The two countries have signed several bilateral agreements in various areas, including trade, agriculture, education, and culture.
In 2018, Zimbabwe and Belarus signed a series of agreements during a visit by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa to Belarus. The agreements covered areas such as education, health, and agriculture, with Belarus pledging to provide Zimbabwe with agricultural machinery and equipment.
Additionally, in 2019, Zimbabwe and Belarus signed a memorandum of understanding on industrial cooperation aimed at boosting economic ties between the two countries. 
However, the relationship between the two countries has also faced criticism. Zimbabwe has been accused of human rights abuses and undemocratic practices, and Belarus has been criticized for its authoritarian regime and human rights violations. These issues have led to criticism of the close relationship between the two countries, particularly by Western countries.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Zimbabwe To Appoint Ambassador To Belarus

President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his Belarusian counterpart Aleksandr Lukashenko discussed defence and security issues besides the business contracts that were reportedly signed by officials from the two countries.
Lukashenko visited the United Arab Emirates, had a state visit to Zimbabwe, and then returned to the UAE.
Press secretary of the Belarusian head of state Natalya Eismont shared previously unknown details of the meetings and negotiations between Lukashenko and Mnangagwa. Said Eismont, as quoted by <a href="https://eng.belta.by/president/view/press-secretary-shares-new-details-of-lukashenkos-foreign-tour-156483-2023/">Belta</a>:
<blockquote>
With regard to Zimbabwe, I mean the things that have not been made public: these were defense and security issues. The journalists, who worked with us, were present at the reception, too. This was a very special event.
Different countries have their own traditions. In general, a reception is an informal communication, a cultural part of the visit. It is a special, more relaxed moment. Here it was quite different.
There is a tradition in Zimbabwe for heads of state to give speeches at the reception and to dwell on the results.
Our president made a very serious speech, which was heard, including by journalists. He touched upon these issues there. I mean defense and security issues. These issues were discussed in detail.
</blockquote>

"Mnangagwa, Lukashenko Discussed Defence And Security Issues"

One of the main beneficiaries of a slew of business agreements recently struck between Zimbabwe and Belarus is Aftrade, a business headed by infamous Belarusian tycoon <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Alexander_Zingman">Alexander Zingman.</a>
Alexander Zingman was made Honourary Consul of Zimbabwe to the Republic of Belarus in January 2019.
Aftrade has obtained contracts to develop grain storage facilities, supply tractors and harvesters to the government, and secure equipment deals in the mining and logging industries thanks to the visit of Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko to Zimbabwe.
Four years ago, Zimbabwe announced that it needed 40 000 tractors, at a time when only 9000 were available to work Zimbabwe’s 4 130 000ha of arable land. 
The southern African nation looked to Belarus and other suppliers in a bid to plug the gap. 
Zimbabwe also signed a US$51 million deal with US company John Deere for the supply of 1 300 tractors, 80 combine harvesters and other equipment. Zimbabwe is also negotiating with India’s Mahindra, which abandoned a plan in 2018 to set up an assembly plant in Zimbabwe due to forex shortages.
Belarus has already supplied equipment to Zimbabwe, but, says Lukashenko, that was only the first phase. <a href="https://newzwire.live/from-tractors-to-mining-alexander-zingman-wins-big-in-lukashenkos-us66m-zimbabwe-deals/">newZWire</a> cites him as saying:
<blockquote>
But it is just the beginning. We’ve launched the third phase of the programme to the tune of over US$66 million. It provides for shipping over 3,700 tractors, 60 harvesters to the local agrarians within the next 1.5 years.
</blockquote>
Aftrade and MTZ, one of Europe’s biggest tractor exporters, will supply at least 3 575 tractors to Zimbabwe between 2023 and 2024. Aftrade has distribution rights for MTZ equipment in the country. MTZ director general Vitaly Vovk said:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwean market opened for Belarus machinery several years ago thanks to our reliable partner, Aftrade DMCC. We are glad that today we are talking about strategic partnership that envisages work on a systematic perspective basis. 
We know that last year, for the first time in the past 50 years, the country fully provided itself with grain. It is gratifying that the country succeeded also thanks to Belarus machinery
</blockquote>
The new tractors add to the 1 800 tractors and harvesters that MTZ has already supplied to Zimbabwe.
Aftrade was also awarded a contract to supply equipment manufactured in Belarus for the construction and modernisation of grain storage complexes. While no details are known, Agriculture Secretary John Basera recently said Zimbabwe needed to spend over US$275 million over the next three years to build new grain silos, adding 750 000 tonnes of storage space to the current 500 000 tonnes.
MTZ was a major supplier of equipment to Ukraine before the Russia war started, and also exported to the US and Canada.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Alexander Zingman's Aftrade A Main Beneficiary Of Agreements Between Zimbabwe & Belarus

Hundreds of ZANU PF supporters from Harare province were made to sit in the sun for hours, at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport to welcome the President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko.
Lukashenko was expected to jet into Harare on Monday for a State visit to Zimbabwe.
He will be in Zimbabwe from 30 January to 1 February after making his first stop in the United Arab Emirates.
Lukashenko will meet President Emmerson Mnangagwa to strengthen existing relations between the two countries.
On Monday morning, ZANU PF despatched buses to districts in Harare to pick up supporters and ferry them to the airport ahead of Lukashenko’s visit.
Below are pictures posted by <a href="https://twitter.com/HeraldZimbabwe/status/1620052628607729665">The Herald</a> showing ZANU PF supporters sitting in the blazing at the RGMI Airport waiting for the Belarusian strongman:

 <img class="pictures-mainly-articles" src="/media/news/articles/0f1c55b2365e775135993afd4f4ec279f39cd52f.webp"/><img/> <img class="pictures-mainly-articles" src="/media/news/articles/bfe6b84e662f7debddf4b480f356e7c3c3213b1c.webp"/><img/> <img class="pictures-mainly-articles" src="/media/news/articles/20e1b7820c6340a07253f823510b83046a7a721b.webp"/><img/> <img class="pictures-mainly-articles" src="/media/news/articles/23a767dabb0f699a9f734ae8effe3f77543d2c4b.webp"/><img/>

PICTURES: ZANU PF Supporters Bussed To Welcome President Lukashenko

Belarus’ Minsk Tractor Plant (MTZ) said that it will supply more than 3 500 tractors to Zimbabwe in 2023-2024.
This was said by MTZ Director General Vitaly Vovk after the company signed a memorandum of a strategic partnership with its official dealer in Zimbabwe – AFTRADE DMCC to promote BELARUS machines on the Zimbabwean market.
According to the document, in 2023-2024 MTZ is set to supply 3 575 tractors to Zimbabwe.
The document was signed at the Belarus-Zimbabwe business forum in Harare held ahead of the state visit of Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko to Zimbabwe. Said Vovk:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwean market opened for BELARUS machinery several years ago thanks to our reliable partner, AFTRADE DMCC.
We are glad that today we are talking about the strategic partnership that envisages work on a systematic perspective basis.
</blockquote>
In 2018-2022, MTZ delivered more than 1 800 vehicles to Zimbabwe. Said Vovk:
<blockquote>
We know that last year, for the first time in the past 50 years, the country fully provided itself with grain.
It is gratifying that the country succeeded also thanks to BELARUS machinery.
</blockquote>
He said the company has a multi-purpose service center in Harare with branches in Mutare and Bulawayo, and also a warehouse for component parts to maintain the delivered machinery.
MTZ together with AFTRADE DMCC is expected to train Zimbabweans on how to operate tractors from Belarus. | <a href="https://eng.belta.by/economics/view/belarus-mtz-to-ship-over-3500-tractors-to-zimbabwe-in-2023-2024-156322-2023/">Belta</a>

Belarusian Company Says It Will Ship 3 500 Tractors To Zimbabwe In 2023-2024

ZANU PF has bussed its supporters to the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport to welcome the President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, who is on a State visit to Zimbabwe.
The bussing of supporters to the airport to welcome foreign dignitaries was a distinct feature of the late former president Robert Mugabe’s administration, and the so-called New Dispensation has seemingly perpetuated the practice.
In a notice to all DDC4 District Chairpersons and PCs in Harare Province, the secretary for administration, one S.M. Mabeka, said buses will be availed for the event. Wrote Mabeka:
<blockquote>
All DCC4 District Chairpersons &amp; PCs are requested to mobilise Cdes to go to Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, Republic of Belarus President Cde Alexander Grigoryevich Lukashenko will be visiting his counterpart Republic of Zimbabwe President Cde ED Mnangagwa on Monday the 30th of January 2023.
District Secretaries for Transport &amp; Welfare come collect buses from DCC4 Secretary for Transport &amp; Welfare Cde Gwengwe at ZANU PF Harare Provincial Offices at 0800hrs.
All Party members to be at their usual pick-up points by 0830hrs.
</blockquote>
Lukashenko will be in Zimbabwe from 30 January to 1 February after making his first stop in the United Arab Emirates.
He will meet Mnangagwa to strengthen existing relations between the two countries.
<a href="https://www.news24.com/news24/africa/news/belarus-president-a-top-putin-ally-due-in-zimbabwe-next-week-20230127">News24</a> reported a source as saying Lukashenko’s visit was initially planned for last year, but there were security fears.

ZANU PF Busses Supporters To Welcome The President Of Belarus

Belarus President, Alexander Lukashenko, will visit Zimbabwe on Monday to meet his counterpart Emmerson Mnangagwa to strengthen existing relations between the two countries, a Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson has said.
<a href="https://www.news24.com/news24/africa/news/belarus-president-a-top-putin-ally-due-in-zimbabwe-next-week-20230127">News24</a> reported a source as saying Lukashenko’s visit was initially planned for last year, but there were security fears.
He will be in Zimbabwe from 30 January to 1 February after making his first stop in the United Arab Emirates.
In a statement on Friday, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade spokesperson Livit Mugejo said:
<blockquote>
The President of the Republic of Belarus, His Excellency Alexander Lukashenko, will pay a State Visit to Zimbabwe from 30 January-1 February 2023.
During the State Visit, H.E President Lukashenko is scheduled to meet H.E President Dr. E.D Mnangagwa.
The visit is historic, as it is the first such undertaking to a Sub-Saharan African nation, by President Lukashenko.
The State visit is meant to strengthen the existing excellent relations between Zimbabwe and the Republic of Belarus.
The two countries have strong cooperation in political, economic, mining, agriculture and Disaster Risk Management. 
Several agreements are under consideration and are expected to be signed during the visit. 
President Lukashenko and President Mnangagwa are also expected to launch the Second Phase of the Zimbabwe- Belarus Agricultural Mechanisation Programme.
</blockquote>

Belarus President Expected In Zimbabwe Next Week

The Government says it is set to seal a US$170 million deal to buy close to 4 000 high-tech tractors and combine harvesters from Belarus.
The chief director for Agricultural Engineering, Mechanisation and Soil Conservation in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Engineer Edwin Zimunga, told <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/govt-strikes-us170m-farm-mechanisation-deal">The Sunday Mail </a>that the combine harvesters will be procured at concessional rates under the third phase of the Belarus Farm Mechanisation Facility.
Belarusian Deputy Prime Minister, Piotr Parkhomchik, was in Zimbabwe recently to finalise the deal, which was secured by President Mnangagwa during his State visit to Minsk in 2018.
Zimbabwe has procured 1 337 tractors and combine harvesters through the facility. The bulk of the farming implements has since been delivered. Said Zimunga:
<blockquote>
We are working round the clock to make sure that we modernise and mechanise our agriculture for improved production with less human labour.
The current deal, which we are working on, will see us receive at least 3 750 tractors and 60 more combine harvesters from our Belarusian friends.
With the coming on board of this US$169,9 million deal and other facilities, we want to push our tractor fleet to about 15 000 by the year 2025. This is a concessional deal in which governments capacitate each other.
In this case, with the experience Belarus has, they are sharing that knowledge with us so that we improve our agriculture sector.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko is scheduled to be in Zimbabwe in December on an official visit.

Govt Says It Is Working On A US$170m Farm Mechanisation Deal

Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko congratulated President Emmerson Mnangagwa on his 80th birthday.
Mnangagwa turned 80 on Thursday, 15 September 2022.
A message of greetings released by the press service of the Belarusian leader read in part:
<blockquote>
Under your leadership, Zimbabwe has achieved impressive success in socio-economic development and confidently defended its interests in the international arena.
</blockquote>
Lukashenko said he appreciates the partnership relations between Minsk and Harare. He said:
<blockquote>
I am convinced that an open and trusting Belarusian-Zimbabwean dialogue will contribute to the expansion of mutually beneficial cooperation in various sectors, the effective implementation of new joint projects.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://eng.belta.by/president/view/lukashenko-belarus-zimbabwe-can-implement-new-joint-projects-153107-2022/">BelTA</a>

Belarusian President, Aleksandr Lukashenko, Congratulates President Mnangagwa

Belarus has officially opened its Embassy in Harare this Monday, 11 July 2022.
Speaking at the event, Belarus Ambassador to Zimbabwe His Excellency Dr Alexander Sidoruk described the partnership with Zimbabwe as critical. <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/belarusian-embassy-officially-opened-in-harare/">ZBC News</a> cites him as saying:
<blockquote>
Belarus considers Zimbabwe as a key partner in the region and the opening of the embassy will allow as to pursue further our areas of interest in the country.
</blockquote>
With relations between Harare and Minsk stretching for the last three decades in sectors such as agriculture and transport, the two countries are hoping to deepen cooperation after the opening of an embassy in Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Ambassador <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Frederick_Shava">Frederick Shava</a> expressed gratitude to Belarus for supporting the southern African country in its quest to achieve Vision 2030. He said:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Government is most grateful for two Financing Facilities worth US$50 million and US51 million by the Republic of Belarus to support the modernisation of our country’s Agricultural Sector.
These Facilities funded the Farm Mechanisation Programme at the Institute of Agricultural Engineering in Hatcliffe, Harare, which was launched by His Excellency President Mnangagwa in 2020 and the provision of Agricultural Equipment, including 163 Tractors, 19 Combine Harvesters, 52 Seed Mills and 4 low-bed Trucks. 
</blockquote>
The establishment of the Belarus Embassy in Harare is expected to conclude the Agreement on the Establishment of a Joint Permanent Commission on Co-operation, the Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement and the Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement, among other areas of cooperation.
<h2>Pindula News</h2>

Belarus Has Officially Opened Its Embassy In Zimbabwe

The Bulawayo City Council has rejected local government minister July Moyo’s plan to divert devolution funds to acquire fire tenders from Belarus.
In June, Moyo advised local authorities that they will receive fire tenders procured from the East European country in a “government-to-government” agreement.
In a letter to town clerks, secretaries and CEOs dated 20 June 2022, Moyo said each “rural local authority” would get one fire engine while “urban local authorities” would get two and “metropolitan local authorities” are in line to get three each.
It has, however, emerged that the fire tenders are hugely overpriced at US$464,296 each.
The City of Bulawayo says fire tenders are not a priority as it urgently needs refuse collection trucks.
Addressing a full council meeting on Wednesday, deputy mayor Mlandu Ncube said:
<blockquote>
Our fire tenders and ambulances are not bad and we still have fire tenders and ambulances.
Where we have a problem is vehicles for road maintenance, vehicles to attend to sewage bursts, grave digging and refuse collection. 
We were shocked to hear that some are directing that we have to purchase fire tenders.
As a city, we have a big problem with service delivery trucks and what will it help buying fire tenders when they won’t be able to traffic our roads due to their poor state?
Refuse will be all over the place making it hard for our fire trucks to travel to attend to fires.
The talk for us to buy three fire tenders must end on social media and not come here.
</blockquote>
Ncube, who is the Ward 1 Councillor, said residents said they want refuse to be collected on time, graders, tippers and water bowsers.
Edwin Ndlovu, a councillor in Makokoba, condemned Moyo for dictating how the city uses its devolution allocation. He said:
<blockquote>
The central government must not budget for us and spell out how we use our money. The move defeats the whole purpose of devolution.
If there is a need for fire tenders, it’s us as a council who must prioritise it and when a need arises for us to request government to assist us by sourcing cheap fire tenders it must be us as a council approaching the central government and not the other way round.
We don’t want another Pomona in Bulawayo. It’s we who must look for tenders and if what government is providing is the cheapest, then we will go for it provided it is our priority.
</blockquote>
Councillor Ernest Rafa Moyo said councillors recently toured the city’s fire brigade department and were satisfied with the condition of the fire tenders.
July Moyo recently directed Harare City Council not to pull out of a US$320 million waste-to-energy with a company registered in the Netherlands, but with no history of undertaking similar projects.
The company, Geogenix BV is owned by Klodian Mertiri, an Albanian businessman who allegedly has links to President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s twin son, Sean.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/2022/07/bulawayo-councillors-reject-july-moyos-fire-tenders/">ZimLive</a></h4>

Bulawayo Councillors Reject July Moyo’s Fire Tenders

The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works says the procurement of fire tenders for all local authorities from Belarus using devolution funds is above board.
The ministry said the Government conducted proper consultations with concerned stakeholders before procuring the fire tenders.
Acting secretary in the Ministry, Emmanuel Ngwarati, said the cost of each fire tender of US$464 296 was cheap compared to regional prices which are in the range of US$500 000 and above. Ngwarati said:
<blockquote>
Request for model equipment, whose specifications are tailor-made to suit the local terrain, were made to local authorities.
On approval from stakeholders, the Government facilitated the purchase and negotiated for staggered payment terms.
</blockquote>
Earlier this week, a letter written by the Ministry’s permanent secretary Zvinechimwe Churu revealing the fire tenders deal was leaked to the media.
In the letter, Churu directed local authorities to set aside funds to pay for fire tenders the Ministry is buying from Belarus. The letter read in part:
<blockquote>
The funds to procure the equipment will be deducted from the 2022 Devolution allocations and will be done over a period of twelve months starting March 2022. the cost of each fire tender is USD464,296.
It is therefore advisable for local authorities to reprioritise the Devolution funds to accommodate the cost of the fire tenders.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/belarus-fire-tenders-deal-above-board-govt/">The Herald</a></h4>

Govt Defends Belarus Fire Tenders Deal

Members of Parliament on Wednesday grilled Local Government and Public Works Minister Marian Chombo over a government deal to procure fire-fighting trucks from Belarus.
This comes after the ministry’s permanent secretary Zvinechimwe Churu wrote a letter to local authorities directing them to set aside funds to pay for fire tenders the Ministry is buying from Belarus.
It also emerged that the prices for the trucks were inflated and critics say the planned procurement stinks of corruption.
On Wednesday, legislators demanded answers from Chombo and pressed her until she committed to bringing a Ministerial statement to the House.
Below is a transcript of the exchanges from Parliament’s Hansard publication:
HON. MATEWU: Thank you, Mr Speaker Sir. My question is directed to the Minister for Local Government and Public Works.
In view of devolution and decentralization, there are three levels of Government as in the Constitution; the national, provincial and local authority.
I want to refer to Section 274 (1 of our Constitution which states that these manage their own affairs.
I want to ask the Minister why there is interference from the Central Government shoving down the throats of local authorities, for example, yesterday to purchase fire tenders on their behalf. What kind of law is the Minister using to do this illegality? I thank you. – [HON. ZWIZWAI: She is there! She is there!] –
THE HON. SPEAKER: Sorry, sorry, sorry. Hon. Zwizwai, you advise the Chair politely. – [HON. ZWIZWAI: I am sorry Sir!] –
THE DEPUTY MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS (HON. CHOMBO): Thank you, Hon. Speaker Ma’am and Hon. Matewu for that very pertinent question.
You started very well that we have three tiers of Government which are the central, provincial and the local authority, and they work in unison.
I do not see anywhere where the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works has interfered in the affairs of local authorities. – [HON. T. MLISWA: You sit on councils!] – We do not interfere. I thank you.
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order, order Hon. Mliswa!
HON. MATEWU: Madam Speaker Ma’am, the Hon. Minister did not answer my question, she just skirted around.
However, my supplementary question is whether the local authorities have to follow the Procurement Act.
Why is the Procurement Act not being followed in ordering all local authorities to take their devolution funds and pay Belarus without any procurement? Why was this allowed to happen?
THE HON DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon. Matewu, you are not connected. HON.
MATEWU: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am, I will repeat my question. My supplementary to the Hon. Minister is that the Procurement Act is very clear on how one buys any tender.
Why is the Hon? Minister flouting the Procurement Act in ordering every single authority to buy fire tenders from Belarus which they did not even ask for?
They are taking this money from devolution funds that must be spent in devolved provinces which make their own decisions and own affairs? I thank you.
HON. CHOMBO: Thank you very much, Hon. Speaker Ma’am and thank you very much, Hon. Matewu for the follow-up question.
We follow PRAZ regulations, and there is nowhere my Ministry has by[1]passed those processes. – [HON. MEMBERS: Was there a tender? Was there a tender?] – If there is any that you feel that we have not followed the laid down procedures, you are free to approach my office. I thank you. – [HON. MEMBERS: Inaudible interjections.] –
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<div id="google_ads_iframe_/26225854,22670622333/Dotaudience/newzimbabwe.com/Lazy3_0__container__">THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon. Zwizwai, please take your seat?</div>
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HON. T. MLISWA: Madam Speaker, my point of order is that the Hon. Minister must not insult this House.
We are the ones who make laws, we know PRAZ and there is no way you can say that they were bought.
The question here is that you violated PRAZ and if you say that there is a tender, can you furnish us with the tender number?
There was no tender number in the report. It was a corrupt directive and it is difficult to ask a Minister who is also implicated in the corruption – that is where the problem is.
Where is the tender number Madam Speaker? When was it tendered? Where are the adverts? This is PRAZ and we are the ones who put the law.
An advertisement is made, and PRAZ regulations are followed. Cabinet is not above PRAZ, no one is above PRAZ. Can she tell us when they tendered the advert?
HON. CHOMBO: Thank you Madam Speaker Ma’am and thank you very much, Hon. Mliswa for the follow-up question.
As I stated before, my Ministry follows the PRAZ Regulations, and if there is any tender that you feel we did not follow instructions, you are free to write down or request for me to provide details of how that was done.
I thank you. (v)HON. MADZIMURE: Thank you Madam Speaker. Can the Hon. Minister give an undertaking to the House that she is going to come back with the fire tender documents, and also the Pomona deal …
THE HON. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Hon. Deputy Minister, are you listening? Hon. Madzimure, please may you repeat your question? (v)HON. MADZIMURE: Madam Speaker, I am asking the Hon. Minister to furnish the House with the tender documents for the fire tenders that she said her Ministry is going to purchase on behalf of local authorities and also the Pomona deal tender documents so that Parliament sees whether they were in compliance with PRAZ regulations.
HON. CHOMBO: Thank you very much, Hon. Speaker Ma’am and thank you very much, Hon. Madzimure for the follow-up question.
As I said before, I reiterate that we follow procedures, and you are asking about the fire tenders and Pomona deal – that is too specific.
I request that you put that in writing and I will be able to respond to it. HON. GONESE: On a point of order Madam Speaker.
<h4 data-wtg-lazy="28">More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/parly-storm-over-belarus-fire-trucks-scandal-minister-repeatedly-dodges-questions-but-mps-refuse-to-back-down/">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

MPs Grill Minister Over Belarus Fire Trucks Deal

Belarus will open its embassy in Zimbabwe before 31 January 2022. The decision is envisaged in Council of Ministers’ resolution No.477 of 23 August 2021 published on the national internet portal on 25 August, BelTA has learned.
The Finance Ministry has been instructed to finance the costs of opening and maintaining the Belarusian embassy in Zimbabwe within the funds provided for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the national budget for the opening and maintenance of diplomatic missions and consular offices abroad.
The decree enters into force on the day of its official publication.
The Former Soviet Republic (FSR) and Zimbabwe have increased cooperation in agriculture and transport in recent years.
In September last year, President Emmerson Mnangagwa commissioned the Belarus Mechanisation Facility worth over US$50 million.
The facility is part of the deals struck by Mnangagwa, during his tenure as Vice President in 2015 and as President in January 2019.
<h4>More: <a href="https://eng.belta.by/politics/view/belarus-to-open-embassy-in-zimbabwe-in-january-2022-142758-2021/">Belta</a></h4>

Belarus To Open Embassy In Zimbabwe In January 2022

President Mnangagwa’s Eurasia trip last year which includes a trip to Belarus which was branded a strategic trip was primarily meant to inspect military and intelligence surveillance technology produced in Belarus with an interest to place an order, The Zimbabwe Independent reports.
The publication further alleges that the climax of President Mnangagwa’s visit was when he visited weapons manufacturing plants.
One of the plants he toured, Volat, a.k.a OJSC MZKT, which manufactures military hardware wrote on their website about his visit and said:
<blockquote>As part of an official visit to Belarus on January 16, 2019, President of Zimbabwe Emmerson Mnangagwa visited OJSC MZKT. At the open exhibition area of the enterprise, the latest models of equipment were presented; modern tactical vehicles, tank transporters, chassis for the installation of missile systems, etc.</blockquote>
Besides Volat, the following companies reportedly also showcased their weaponry to President Mnangagwa, OJSC Peleng, OJSC 558 ARZ, JSC Design Bureau Display and AGAT Control Systems JSC, BelOMO Holding and LLC BSVT-NT.
The defense Minister Oppha Muchinguri Kashiri did not respond to the questions she was asked if President Mnangagwa placed an order.
Last year President Mnangagwa <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/04/10/ed-fearing-for-a-protest-last-year-bought-50-000-mortar-bombs-58-500-grenades-and-a-lot-of-other-weapons-report/">bought weapons</a> a move that was criticized by CSOs and other stakeholders.
More: <a href="https://www.theindependent.co.zw/2020/10/30/mnangagwa-shops-for-military-technology-hardware-in-belarus/">The Zimbabwean </a>

ED's Actual Reason For Visiting Belarus Was To Inspect Military And Intelligence Surveillance Technology - Report

President Emmerson Mnangagwa is expected to launch a farm mechanisation facility from Belarus worth US$58 million at the Agricultural Engineering department in Harare.
This was announced in a statement by the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services which also indicated that the meeting is expected to start at 8 am.
The machinery is part of an agreement that Zimbabwe entered into with Belarus in 2018 which ill see the latter supplying agriculture and timber machinery.
Below are some of the equipment to be supplied under the agreement.
<blockquote>
<ul>
<li> 60 self-propelled grain harvesters,</li>
<li>210 precision seed drills,</li>
<li>474 tractors of different power capacities,</li>
<li>fifth wheel trucks with semitrailers for transportation of heavy equipment and four dump trucks;</li>
<li>fifth wheel trucks with semitrailers for transportation of heavy equipment,</li>
<li>six semitrailers with hydraulic manipulator for transportation of construction machinery,</li>
<li>10 drop side trucks,</li>
<li>firefighting equipment critical in forest business,</li>
<li>cities and other communities and emergency rescue operations.</li>
<li>30 motor cycles and complete set of spare parts for every type of machinery and equipment delivered.</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
The Ministry also indicated that training for beneficiaries shall include practical classes in every manufacturing plant.
This comes when Zimbabwe is in dire need for food following a poor farming season due to drought.
Some are sceptical about the facility after the ill-managed 2007/8 Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ)’s farm mechanisation programme failed to produce intended results.
More: <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/just-in-president-to-launch-us58-m-belarus-agric-equipment-facility/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sunday News</a>

ED To Launch US$58m Belarus Farm Mechanisation Facility

The European Union has rejected the outcome of the disputed Belarus election, saying President Alexander Lukashenko’s victory was neither free nor fair.
The EU has warned Lukashenko of imminent fresh sanctions against his government following an emergency video summit held on Wednesday.
EU Council President Charles Michel assured the Belarusians, whose unprecedented protests against Lukashenko entered the 11th day, that the bloc stood by their side.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel called for national dialogue in Belarus – including Lukashenko, to find a peaceful way out of the crisis.
Speaking to reporters after the emergency video summit, Michel said the recent elections in Belarus did not meet international standards;
<blockquote>These elections were neither free nor fair and did not meet international standards. We don’t recognise the results presented by the Belarus authorities.
The people of Belarus deserve better. They deserve the democratic right to choose their leaders and shape the future.</blockquote>
Michel, along with Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron, all held telephone talks with Lukashenko, who has been in power for 26 years.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose country is a close ally of Belarus, has said that his country could intervene in the crisis and warned against “unacceptable” foreign interference in Belarus.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/08/eu-leaders-seek-ramp-pressure-belarus-leader-lukashenko-200819084402186.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Al Jazeera</a></h4>

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