Bomikazi Zeka and Abdul Latif Alhassan, economic researchers at <a href="https://theconversation.com/get-rich-quick-schemes-pyramids-and-ponzis-five-signs-youre-being-scammed-205798?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=Latest%20from%20The%20Conversation%20for%20May%2021%202023%20-%202633226507&amp;utm_content=Latest%20from%20The%20Conversation%20for%20May%2021%202023%20-%202633226507+CID_afe5993f6050627bf836909019e8fd51&amp;utm_source=campaign_monitor_africa&amp;utm_term=Get-rich-quick%20schemes%20pyramids%20and%20ponzis%20five%20signs%20youre%20being%20scammed">The Conversation</a>, warn of common financial traps and offer some tips to avoid “get-rich-quick” financial fraud.
Consumers worldwide are struggling with rising food and fuel prices, making it challenging to remain financially stable and fraudsters take advantage of such economic uncertainty by luring people into fraudulent activities.
They say Ponzi and pyramid schemes have defrauded millions of people worldwide by promising unrealistic financial benefits through misrepresentation of information and identity.
There are five tell-tale signs of a “get-rich-quick” scheme: exaggerated returns, constant recruitment of new members, the urgency to join, unregistered schemes, and the use of testimonies from existing members.
They say legitimate investments are transparent and registered with regulatory authorities. Investors should conduct their investigations and report any scams to the relevant authorities to avoid unnecessary financial distress. Remember, wealth comes from sound investment strategies made over time.
The five tell-tale signs of a “get-rich-quick” scheme in detail: 
1). Fraudsters offer <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">exaggerated returns</a> with little to no risk in a short time. However, the golden rule of investing is that it takes time to make money. If someone promises to help you amass a small fortune in a short time, it’s best to be cautious and question the legitimacy of their scheme. The second rule of investing is that higher returns come with higher risks. No investment is entirely risk-free or guarantees significant returns. Investments that promise substantial returns tend to be quite risky, which may not be suitable for people with a low appetite for risk.
2). Fraudsters constantly recruit new members to join their scheme. Such schemes rely on the investments of new members to pay existing members. Once the number of existing members exceeds new members, the scheme collapses. At best, investors lose out on the promised returns. At worst, they lose all their invested money. When the scheme collapses, it’s almost impossible to recover lost money because it was given to a stranger. Remember that <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">financial fraud</a> includes a misrepresentation of identity.
3). A classic characteristic of a “get-rich-quick” scheme is the urgency to join without clear information on how it works. Such schemes offer no clear answers about their nature, investments, returns, or credentials. <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">Legitimate investments</a> are transparent and provide investors with all the necessary information to make informed decisions. Properly checking “get-rich-quick” schemes will reveal their fraudulent nature. This is why fraudsters often use urgency and coercion to prompt <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">immediate financial commitment</a> under the guise of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get rich.
4). Another sign of a “get-rich-quick” scheme is that it’s not registered or regulated by any recognized authority. Regulatory authorities are crucial because they monitor the behaviour of financial service providers and protect consumers by ensuring their best interests are taken into account. The protection provided by <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">financial regulators</a> also instils confidence in financial systems. “Get-rich-quick” schemes are not registered and operate outside the framework of regulatory bodies. This makes investors more vulnerable to losses and makes it more challenging to seek <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">legal recourse</a> when the loss occurs. Legitimate investments in any country are offered by <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">authorized financial service providers</a>. You can search for any authorized <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">financial service provider</a> on the authority’s website.
5). Fraudsters use the testimonies of existing members who have earned big returns to promote their scheme. At the initial stages, such schemes tend to pay out to early investors, who are encouraged to share their wealth to promote the scheme. This creates the impression that others can earn high returns too. However, these schemes are unsustainable and unethical as one person gains wealth by deceiving others. It’s important to remember that if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Wealth comes from sound <a class="MarkdownLink_linkifiedLink__KxC9G">investment strategies</a> and decisions made over time. Any promise of getting rich quickly should be treated with scepticism as it will eventually reveal its fraudulent nature. Recognizing the signs of “get-rich-quick” schemes can prevent unnecessary financial distress.
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Pindula News

Some Tips On How To Avoid "Get-rich-quick" Financial Fraud

The <a href="https://wiki.pindula.co.zw/Citizens%27_Coalition_for_Change">Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC)</a> is allegedly facing challenges in some rural wards where villagers are hesitant to stand as opposition candidates.
According to cluster leaders who spoke to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200010639/ccc-struggles-for-rural-candidates">NewsDay</a>, the party is having difficulty finding candidates in remote areas like Muzarabani, Mudzi, and Chimanimani. One party cluster leader who declined to be named is quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
Things are not looking good on the ground. There are no takers in perceived Zanu PF strongholds because people are vulnerable and they do not know where to report if they are harassed or their houses burnt.
CCC has no established structures. In most rural communities, to be labelled an opposition attracts serious backlash.
</blockquote>
Reports indicate that the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) is facing difficulties in finding candidates for some wards, with only one candidate identified out of 22 Wards in Chimanimani and none in 24 wards in Mashonaland West province.
According to sources, some opposition leaders have focused on rural constituencies under the Mugwazo program but have opted for safer urban seats. 
<a href="https://wiki.pindula.co.zw/Chalton_Hwende">Chalton Hwende</a>, the interim secretary-general of CCC, who is eligible to represent the Mhondoro area chose to be nominated in Kuwadzana (Harare), while vice-president<a href="https://wiki.pindula.co.zw/Tendai_Biti"> Tendai Biti</a> who is eligible to contest in Murewa opted for a safe seat in Harare East constituency.
The party is also allegedly grappling with the issue of double nominations.
The CCC has also been accused of double standards after some candidates renounced their MDC membership at the last minute to be nominated under a CCC ticket. Former MDC Alliance Harare chairperson Zivanai Mhetu was allowed to be nominated in the Epworth North constituency.
The party’s selection process involves conducting surveys and preparing a report with nominated candidates’ names, scores, and stakeholder comments. The nominated candidates will be approached by the Citizen’s Candidates Independent Selection Panel (CISP) to confirm their willingness to be considered as candidates.
However, CCC deputy spokesperson <a href="https://wiki.pindula.co.zw/Gift_Ostallos_Siziba">Gift Ostallos Siziba</a> dismissed reports that the party was struggling to field candidates in rural wards. He said:
<blockquote>
That is not true that we are failing to find candidates. We have residue of all the 1 970 wards in Zimbabwe. Those who are alleging that, maybe, they are saying so because of the nominations that come late. We are now moving to the citizens caucus stage.
</blockquote>
The CCC’s spokesperson <a href="https://wiki.pindula.co.zw/Fadzayi_Mahere">Fadzayi Mahere</a> explained that the party’s candidate selection process has four stages, with the nomination being the first stage. After nomination, there will be a vetting process and consultation with key stakeholders. Next, there will be community consensus building where citizens will have the opportunity to choose their preferred candidate and ask questions about their eligibility.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

CCC Allegedly Failing To Find Candidates For Some Rural Wards, Constituencies

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Tongayi_Chirisa">Tongayi Arnold Chirisa</a>, a United States-based Zimbabwean actor, has landed a role in the Hollywood movie, ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts.’
Chirisa will voice the character of Cheetor in the popular Hollywood action movie.
He will be alongside other renowned actors including Peter Dinklage, Ron Perman and Michelle Yeoh in the movie which is set to be released on the 9th of June.
He rose to fame in Zimbabwe when he starred as the Detective in Zimbabwean soap Studio 263 before he later landed a role in the South African top movie by Leon Schuster, Mr Bones 2.
The talented actor has been basking in success after landing roles in Hollywood where he has starred in NCIS Los Angeles, Robinson Crusoe, AMC horror Mayfair Witches and horror movie Antebellum which stars American rapper and actress Janelle Monae.
Chirisa has been reconnecting with his roots after he recently started working on a film around Boxing Coach Tobias Mupfuti’s journey of setting up the Victoria Falls Boxing Academy.
Chirisa joins the list of other Zimbabwean actors making waves in the global film industry including Danai Gurira.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Tongayi Chirisa Gets Role In Transformers: Rise Of The Beasts

The Zimbabwe National Soccer Supporters Association plans to boycott Castle Lager Premier Soccer League matches to express their dissatisfaction with Zimbabwe’s suspension by FIFA.
The suspension was a result of the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Football_Association_(ZIFA)">Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA)</a> board’s suspension by the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Sports_and_Recreation_Commission">Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC)</a> over allegations of misappropriation of funds and sexual abuse of female referees.
FIFA has demanded the reinstatement of the ZIFA board led by Felton Kamambo as a condition for lifting the suspension and allowing Zimbabwe to return to the international football community. Anger and frustration continue to mount against the SRC.
The SRC, led by Gerald Mlotshwa, insists on <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/kirsty-coventry-we-dont-want-fifa-to-lift-the-suspension/">following internal processes to restore order at ZIFA</a>. However, this has upset supporters who planned a protest against the SRC at the National Sports Stadium. The protest was disrupted by the police for not complying with the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act. Despite this, the supporters remain defiant and plan to take other measures to pressure the SRC to act on the suspension.
Joseph Matawu, the Secretary-General of ZNSSA, stated that supporters are unhappy with the way football is being handled in the country. He said:
<blockquote>
Very soon we are going to engage our supporters to boycott PSL matches. We will urge them not to attend PSL matches so that we send a strong message to the authorities that we are not settling for less.
We want international football back to our country as soon as possible. We are also going to engage with the President of the country, Cde E.D Mnangagwa so that he can resolve the ZIFA, FIFA impasse. 
</blockquote>
The planned boycott would be a blow to local football, which has been regaining its popularity as supporters return to the stadiums.
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Supporters Plan To Boycott Matches Over ZIFA Suspension By FIFA

Donald Trump, the former president of the United States of America, has been arrested and is facing criminal charges, according to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-65181677">BBC</a>.
Donald Trump who lost the presidency to Joe Biden in 2020 is the first former US President to be arrested on criminal charges.
He is being arraigned at the Manhattan Criminal Courthouse on criminal charges said to be related to hush money payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels in 2016.
He left his home at Trump Tower shortly after 13.00 local time (18.00 BST).
While driving from his home at Trump Tower to the Manhattan Criminal Courthouse, Trump posted on his social media website: “Seems so SURREAL — WOW, they are going to ARREST ME”.
 
He appeared calm and serious as he walked into the courthouse, pausing to wave at the crowd.
At the time we published this article, Trump was inside the courthouse, where he was scheduled to hear the charges against him.
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Donald Trump Has Been Arrested

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Croco_Holdings">Croco Motors</a> unveiled the new generation Ford Ranger and Everest at a colourful event at Sam Levy Village Borrowdale in Harare on Saturday.
The new Ford Ranger is designed to look more like Ford’s other trucks with a wider body, a bigger front grille, and distinctive daytime running lights that form a “C” shape. It also features powerful headlights that use either halogen or Matrix LED technology.
The new Ford Ranger has a muscular design, with a stamped tailgate and the option for LED taillights, to enhance its tough look. It underwent intense global testing in extreme temperatures to make sure it is strong and durable.
The sales manager of Croco Motors, Frank Amigu, said in an interview that the new Ranger unveiled Saturday is larger, tougher, smarter, and more refined. <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200009695/croco-motors-unveils-new-ford-ranger">NewsDay</a> cites him as saying:
<blockquote>
The next-generation Ford Ranger has undergone global testing to ensure it’s robust, rugged and capable. Its high-strength steel frame and steel body ensure the Ranger’s Built Ford Tough reputation for quality, durability and strength. We have always prided ourselves on aftersales service. This is one durable vehicle that is superior to all other vehicles on offer. We will complement it with our excellent aftersales service to ensure convenience for our customers.
</blockquote>
The Ford Ranger is known worldwide for being a tough and reliable pickup truck that is great for both work and play. The new model takes things to the next level with improved towing and off-road capabilities, as well as a choice of efficient and durable engines. According to Amigu, customers can choose a powertrain that meets their needs, whether it’s for fuel economy, towing, or hauling. The new Ford Ranger and Everest models are a great combination of efficiency and comfort, providing the best in terms of performance and quality.
Amigu stated that Croco Motors is well-known for its excellent aftersales service and will continue to provide convenience to customers. He added that the company has a wide network of branches and is committed to offering great support to customers.
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Croco Motors Has Unveiled New Ford Ranger

A pastor at a local apostolic sect church drowned at Lumene Falls in <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mzingwane">Umzingwane District</a> while baptising congregants.
The incident occurred on 1 April at around 8 AM, the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/madzibaba-drowns-during-baptism-ceremony/">Chronicle</a> reported citing Matabeleland South provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Loveness Mangena. She said the body of Amukela Ncube (48) from Nkayi is still trapped in the river. She said:
<blockquote>
I can confirm that we recorded a sudden death case of drowning. Amukela Ncube who is a pastor of an apostolic sect church went to Lumene Falls with congregants to conduct a baptism service. Ncube stepped into the river to check the depth of the water where he wanted to baptise the congregants and drowned.
</blockquote>
Insp Mangena said a sub-aqua team tried to retrieve Ncube’s body yesterday but failed as he is stuck in between rocks and there is a lot of pressure from the water. She said the rescue mission was still ongoing. Insp Mangena urged members of the public to desist from entering undesignated water bodies without protective clothing. She also urged people to seek the services of guides.
Umzingwane District Development Coordinator, Mr Peter Mahlathini who is also the District Civil Protection Committee Chairperson said he will visit the incident scene for an assignment. He said if the sub-aqua team fails to retrieve the body they will engage mining companies to assist in the rescue mission.
Ncube is not the only pastor who has drowned while baptising people. The problem of drowning is common among apostolic sects that use rivers for baptism purposes.
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Pastor Drowned While Baptising Congregants

A Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) officer based in <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Beitbridge">Beitbridge</a> was allegedly killed and dumped along the Beitbridge-Harare highway.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) which is investigating the suspected murder case said the officer’s body was found with multiple stab wounds.
NewsDay reports that the body had bruises consistent with a struggle before his death, but there was little blood where it was found, suggesting he may have been killed elsewhere and dumped at that spot.
The officer commanding Beitbrridge Police District Chief Superintendent Tichaona Nyongo confirmed the death and that the deceased was a ZIMRA officer. Nyongo said:
<blockquote>
Our team went out to attend and we have heard the deceased was a Zimra cashier. We are now investigating where he was hanging out and in whose company.
</blockquote>
The deceased’s remains have since been taken to Beitbridge Hospital.
Residents in Beitbridge are upset and are holding the police and the municipality responsible for not providing enough patrols and not developing the area, which is an important part of the border town. The body was found near a 24-hour fast food restaurant, a nightclub, and a popular events venue called PaGomba.
One resident said on a chat group that extensively discussed the incident:
<blockquote>
Our local authority has for some reason not been allocating stands to people wishing to develop that area which by now should be built up. Many incidences have been reported about the dangers lurking in that area, but there is very little police visibility.
</blockquote>
Boyd Maposa, an aspiring councillor, said:
<blockquote>
Police concentrate their patrols in the border post area because of the possibilities of financial gains, but the crime rate at that spot near the hiking area is troubling. Our local authority should also light up the area.
</blockquote>
There have been reports of ZIMRA officials being robbed or murdered in Beitbridge, Zimbabwe. In August 2020, a ZIMRA officer was reportedly shot and killed by armed robbers while on duty in Beitbridge. In another incident in February 2021, three ZIMRA officers were robbed of their firearms and other valuables by a group of armed men in the town. These incidents have raised concerns about the safety and security of ZIMRA officials and other law enforcement officers in the area.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

ZIMRA Officer Killed In Beitbridge

Zimbabwe is losing more than US$200 million worth of grain annually, according to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Mr Wamkele Mene, AfCFTA secretary-general, said the loss could be prevented if the government improved the storage and export of agricultural products.
Speaking to the Ghanaian media, Mene said Zimbabwe was losing more than US$200 million worth of grain annually due to a lack of storage and processing options.
He said finding a solution to the problem is particularly urgent considering the supply chain disruptions due to COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/afcfta-engages-govt-to-tackle-food-waste-as-zim-loses-us200m-grain-annually">The Sunday Mail</a> reported.
Speaking at the first-ever Africa Sustainable Supply Chain Summit held in Accra, Ghana, recently, Mr Mene said:
<blockquote>
We are working with the Government of Zimbabwe and we have set a target . . . Zimbabwe must be a net exporter of grains by processing the excess capacity that already exists. 
We have an interest in this as the secretariat since we want to see more trade in agricultural produce across the African continent.
</blockquote>
He also hinted that other countries like Ghana are in line for similar engagements.
In Sub-Saharan Africa, food losses amount to $4 billion per year. These losses occur due to food rotting in various stages such as fields, farms, transit, storage, selling points, or homes. The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) attributes these losses to a lack of cold chain facilities, inadequate storage, and insufficient agro-processing skills among smallholder farmers. The losses occur between the harvest and the point of sale.
The estimated food waste worldwide is around one-third, leading to economic losses of $1 trillion per year. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the estimated rate is slightly higher at around 37%.
Another estimate claims that Zimbabwe loses two-thirds of fruit and vegetables, 40% of root crops, and 21% of grains each year.
Mr Mene believes that the AfCFTA and its key pillars like the protocol on the transit of goods, customs procedures, and trade facilitation policies will give a boost to trade efforts. Without these, the ability to establish sustainable supply chain networks in Africa will be limited.
Mr John Denton, the Secretary-General of the International Chamber of Commerce, also supports the AfCFTA’s initiative, which is premised on enhancing supply chain processes and expediting the AfCFTA’s forecasted $450 billion annual contribution to Africa’s gross domestic product by 2035. He said this will integrate Africa more into global value chains, not only for primary commodities but also for manufactured goods and services, which will help keep value in Africa.
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Zimbabwe Losing More Than US$200 million Worth Of Grain Annually

Cabinet has approved plans to introduce a programme called Work-for-Fees in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions.
The work-for-fees programme is aimed at helping students from vulnerable backgrounds.
The government is also expected to set up hybrid companies to commercialise TVET products and services. The Cabinet approved this policy to coordinate TVET across different Ministries.
In her post-Cabinet briefing yesterday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Monica_Mutsvangwa">Monica Mutsvangwa</a> said:
<blockquote>
Presently, the coordination of TVET is fragmented throughout 10 Ministries. As the nation may recall, the Second Republic is on a trajectory to transform the education system from the traditional Education 3.0 model which prioritised Teaching, Research and Community Service to one that puts emphasis on Teaching, Research, Community Service, Innovation and Industrialisation and is termed Heritage-Based Education 5.0.
This model is grounded on production of goods and services, thereby creating entrepreneurs for the industrialisation and modernisation of Zimbabwe. The policy seeks to align education and skills training to promote wealth creation and entrepreneurship opportunities.
</blockquote>
She said the goal of the Second Republic is for all tertiary education to help national development.
Minister Mutsvangwa added that the TVET Policy will improve infrastructure and education quality, as well as make qualifications portable across Ministries.
It is also premised on increasing the productivity and competitiveness of TVET graduates, which aligns with Vision 2030.
The minister added that all government or private institutions offering technical and vocational education will follow this policy. The private sector has contributed to the Zimbabwe Manpower Development Fund (ZIMDEF) for this education.
The government plans to create a financing model using grants and loans from multiple sources for TVET institutions.
Context:
Many students in Zimbabwean colleges are struggling to pay their fees. This is due to a combination of economic hardships, high tuition fees, and limited access to financial aid.
As a result, some students are being denied access to education and face the risk of being expelled.
Some colleges have resorted to legal action to recover the outstanding fees, further exacerbating the problem for struggling students.
The government has introduced various initiatives to alleviate the financial burden on students, such as grants and loans, but the issue of unpaid fees persists.
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Cabinet Approves Introduction Of Work-for-Fees Programme

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Reserve_Bank_of_Zimbabwe">Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ)</a> has said gold coins have helped lower inflation in the country.
RBZ introduced the <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/rbz-releases-first-batch-of-the-2-000-mosi-oa-tunya-gold-coins-25-july-2022/">Mosi-oa-Tunya gold coins on 25 July 2022</a> in a bid to lower inflation and stabilise the economy and the local currency that was fast shedding value against the United States dollar.
In a statement seen by Pindula News, RBZ said as of 10 March 2023, a cumulative total of 31 866 gold coins had been sold in different denominations, mopping up more than ZW$25.8 billion. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
<h2>RESOLUTIONS OF THE MONETARY POLICY COMMITTEE MEETING HELD ON 28 MARCH 2023</h2>
The Monetary Policy Committee (the MPC) of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (the Bank) met on 28 March 2023 to review the recent macroeconomic and financial developments in the economy and their implications on monetary policy.
The MPC noted with satisfaction that domestic economic activity remained robust notwithstanding the expected slowdown in global economic growth. Domestic inflationary pressures in the economy continued dissipating as a result of fiscal discipline, the tight monetary policy, and enhanced monitoring and enforcement of market discipline by the Financial Intelligent Unit (FIU). 
The favourable uptake of gold coins has aided the dissipation of domestic inflationary pressures. As at 10 March 2023, a cumulative total of 31,866 gold coins had been sold in different denominations, mopping up more than ZW$25.8 billion as at the same date.
The MPC noted with satisfaction that month-on-month inflation declined from 0.7% in January 2023 to -1.6% in February 2023 and 0.1% in March 2023. Annual inflation also declined from 101.5% in January 2023 to 92.3% in February 2023 and further down to 87.6% in March 2023 and was expected to continue on the disinflation path owing to the tight monetary policy stance and anticipated bumper harvest which was expected to dampen food prices.
The MPC also noted that the 70:30 currency mix of foreign and local currency, respectively, in the economy was a reflection of the significant foreign currency inflows into the economy during the year 2022, which trend was expected to continue in 2023.
During the period extending from 1 January 2023 to 15 March 2023, the country received US$1.78 billion in foreign currency, representing an increase of 31.5% compared to US$1.36 billion in the same period in 2022. This was against payments of US$1.69 billion over the same period in 2023. The local currency also continued to be widely used in the economy as shown by the Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS)
transactions of ZW$10.6 trillion in the five months from October 2022 to February 2023, compared to US$7.5 billion worth of transactions settled during the same period.
In order to ensure continued anchoring of exchange rate and inflation expectations in the economy, the MPC resolved to stay the course of a tight monetary policy stance and made the following policy decisions which will take effect from 1 April 2023:
i. Reduced the Bank policy rate from 150% to 140% per annum;
ii. Reduced the Medium-term Bank Accommodation (MBA) Facility for the productive sectors, including individuals and MSMEs, from 75% to 70% per annum;
iii. Maintained the prevailing Bank policy rate as the minimum lending rate for all banks;
iv. Maintained the statutory reserves requirements at 10% for demand and call deposits and 5% for time and savings deposits for both domestic and foreign currency deposits;
v. Maintained the minimum deposit rates on savings and time deposits at 30% and 50% per annum, respectively; and
vi. Further liberalised the foreign exchange market to enhance the operation of the Willing-Buyer Willing-Seller market by:
(a) increasing and standardising the trading margins for authorized dealers from the current 5% to 10%, consistent with the margin applicable to bureaux de change and retailers; and
(b) maintaining the maximum amount per transaction at US$100,000.
To expand the value-preserving instruments and enhance divisibility and widen their access to the public, the MPC resolved to complement the current issuance of physical gold coins with gold-backed digital products (digital tokenisation of gold coins). This initiative will allow gold coins to be widely traded and, in the process, expand tradeable assets in the economy for store-of-value purposes. This will be over and above the procurement, by the Bank, of smaller USD denominations for divisibility purposes and/or change for transactions in the economy.
The MPC affirmed its commitment to stay the course of the tight monetary policy stance and to cautiously adjust the policy rates in line with positive developments in the economy. In order to enhance the use of the US dollar through formal banking channels, the Bank shall engage banking institutions to address the current high bank charges on foreign currency deposits.
</blockquote>
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Gold Coins Have Helped Lower Inflation - RBZ

Business operators in <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Harare">Harare</a> are up in arms with the local government authority after the council hiked shop licence fees by over 1 000%.
A survey conducted by <a href="https://zbcnews.co.zw/2023/03/28/harare-city-council-hikes-shop-license-fees-by-1000/">ZBC News</a> in Harare’s Central Business District indicated that non-factory shops and food purveyors are now required to pay over ZWL$1 million, up from an average of ZWL$200 000. 
Said Business operator, Killian Muzorori:
<blockquote>
 I used to pay ZWL200 000, but when I went to pay my shop license fees for this year, I was asked to pay US$1 100.
</blockquote>
Several shops are on the verge of closing and moving out of the central business district. Noted another business operator, Mr Chris Manguni:
<blockquote>
We are on the verge of closing shop because we are failing to pay the shop license fees. Our plea is that the responsible authorities review downwards the operator’s fees or else we are left with no option, but to close our shops which are sustaining a lot of families. 
</blockquote>
Harare City Council Director of Health Services, Dr Prosper Chonzi confirmed that the council had hiked shop licence fees by 1 000% saying the city fathers were implementing their 2023 budget.
The Harare City Council was recently forced to review vehicle clamping fees downwards from US$137 to US$57 after a public outcry over the high clamping fees.
Speaking recently, Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume said the city fathers need to review their licencing fees. He said:
<blockquote>
A lot of people are complaining. If you move from a premise, you can’t move with your licence. You have to pay again. Even if you do renovations. We also need to look at our licensing payment methods. We might need to introduce a quarterly payment system so that people can lessen the burden of paying and we might need a reduction in the quantum. I got a call from the Hairdressers Association. They wrote a letter complaining about the fees which means it’s a serious issue. Something went wrong when we were preparing the budget because almost everything went up. 
</blockquote>
Mafume added that they had instructed the council’s finance committee to look into and review the licence fees.
In January this year, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/ninety-two-council-budgets-approved/">approved ninety-two budgets</a> for 2023 presented by local authorities, with four being rejected for various reasons.
A number of small to medium enterprise businesspersons <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/businesses-in-harare-challenge-licence-fee-hike/">signed a petition</a> against the increase saying they were not consulted on issues of city budgets. 
One businesswoman operating hair salons in the capital said her licence fee went up from US$400 to US$640.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Harare Has Hiked Shop Licence Fees By Over 1 000%

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_School_Examinations_Council">ZIMSEC</a> has issued a statement clarifying a circular on approved O and A level June/ November examination fees and the closing dates for registration for each session respectively.
The circular was sent to all Examination Centres on the 31st of January 2023. 
In a statement seen by Pindula News, the council said registration was still ongoing until the 14th of April 2023. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
<h2>PRESS STATEMENT ON THE NOVEMBER 2023 ORDINARY AND ADVANCED LEVEL REGISTRATION</h2>
The Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) issued a circular to all Examination Centres on the 31st of January 2023, informing of the approved Ordinary and Advanced level June/ November examination fees and the closing dates for registration for each session respectively. ZIMSEC wishes to make the following clarifications to the nation and our stakeholders. 
1. The November 2023 Ordinary and Advanced level registration is currently open. All candidates who wish to sit for their examinations should register at their centre of choice.
2. Examination registration fees are pegged in USD and parents can make payments in ZWL, USD or ZAR. Those who would like to make payments in ZWL will use the interbank rate which shall be communicated by ZIMSEC on the 4th of April 2023. The interbank rate prevailing on that day will apply for the period of the 4th to the 14th April 2023.
3. Payments for the examination fees should NOT be paid directly into ZIMSEC accounts by individual parents. Candidates/ Parents should make payments to the centre of registration for forward remission to ZIMSEC.
4. Centres are hereby advised that although they may wish to set deadlines which allow for administration of entries, these deadlines should not disadvantage any candidate through failure to register. Deadlines should allow for payment of fees in currencies of the parents’ choice for onward submission to ZIMSEC in the currency which they received.
5. Contrary to reports that some centres have set closing dates of 30 March 2023, we hereby advise the nation that ZIMSEC 2023 November examinations registration closing date is still 14 April 2023.
We urge all Heads of Centres to adhere to the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education’s circulars on the administration of Centres/ Schools during school holidays.
</blockquote>
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

ZIMSEC Clarifies On O & A Level Registration Fees, Dates

Saston Muzenda, a former CEO of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/ZINARA">ZINARA</a> was Monday 27 March 2023 convicted of corruption after a trial heard before Harare regional magistrate Mrs Feresi Chakanyuka.
He was found guilty of allowing an Ex-Combatants Security company to provide its services to ZINARA when the Board had already given Modern Security and Real Star Security companies the same job.
Muzenda is expected back in court today for his mitigation submissions, <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/former-zinara-ceo-convicted-of-corruption/">The Herald</a> reported.
In her judgment, Mrs Chakanyuka said there was no justification for Muzenda to award the tender to Ex-Combatants when the Board had already contracted Modern Security and Real Star. 
The court also noted in its judgment that Muzenda defied the Board’s directive of finding another way to deal with Ex-Combatants since he was directed to deal with it amicably. Said Mrs Chakanyuka:
<blockquote>
It is clear that he was directed to deal with the matter amicably and he had other options even to pursue a civil route. He then decided to take an unlawful route.
</blockquote>
What happened:
The State led by Mrs Netsai Mushayabasa and Mrs Sheila Mupindu told the court that in June 2019, Modern Security and Real Star Security companies were awarded tenders to provide services in ZINARA’s northern and southern regions starting from September 1 of the same year.
During that period Ex-Combatants and National Eye Security’s contracts were expected to end on August 31, 2019, before Modern Security and Ex-Combatants Security took over.
Muzenda, who was acting ZINARA CEO, had already allowed Ex-Combatants Security to add security guards in areas that were manned by National Eye Security when he assumed the post.
In a bid to cover his back, Muzenda wrote to the then Procurement Regulatory Authority seeking an extension of services from Ex-Combatants Security.
However, the authority asked Muzenda for the contracts and he responded by saying he had already awarded the tender to the security company, extending its contract by 12 months.
Muzenda’s actions showed bias against Modern Security and Real Star security companies, which was against the tender procedures.
What did Muzenda say:
Muzenda denied the charges during the trial saying the security companies were already embroiled in contractual disputes when he assumed the position of CEO at Zimbabwe National Roads Administration.
He told the court that there was a committee set up to deal with the contracts of the security companies.
When the contract of the Ex-combatants’ security company expired on the 31st of August 2019, Ex-combatants refused to vacate the premises citing a contractual dispute.
On the 17th of September 2019, the board resolved that the contract of Ex-combatants be extended by one year to avoid litigation.
His lawyers said Muzenda acted with the full mandate of the ZINARA board of directors and the extension of the contract was well within his discretion as the CEO.
Muzenda said by the time the contract was extended, he and the board were not informed that the tender processes had been concluded, therefore, he did not disregard the tender processes.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Former ZINARA CEO Convicted Of Corruption

Episode 01 of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Aljazeera_2023_Zimbabwe_Corruption_Documentary">Al Jazeera’s documentary</a> titled Gold Mafia has been released.
Undercover reporters pose as gangsters with up to a billion dollars of black money that need to be cleaned. 
They gain remarkable access to members of Africa’s Gold Mafia and film closed-door meetings with crime bosses. 
A senior African ambassador offers to launder $1.2 million using the cover of his diplomatic bag. Criminals offer lucrative deals to clean over $100 million through government gold export schemes. 
Watch <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evWEuVR1XIs">the video</a> below for more.
At the centre of it, their operations are southern Africa’s biggest laundromat, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe. 
Gold Mafia, a four-part series by Al Jazeera’s Investigative Unit looks at how society’s obsession with gold underwrites a global shadow economy. 
The undercover team infiltrates the rival gangs that turn dirty cash into gold, which is then sold around the world. 
Through thousands of confidential documents and exclusive interviews with whistleblowers from within criminal organisations, investigators obtain the blueprints of billion-dollar money laundering operations that service the political elite. And the investigation leads to the highest offices in the southern African nation.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Watch Episode 01 Of Al Jazeera's Gold Mafia Documentary

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Electoral_Commission">Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC)</a> has extended the final nationwide mobile biometric voter registration exercise by five days, ahead of the 2023 harmonised elections.
The voter registration was originally set to end on 21 March but the commission has announced that the exercise will now conclude on 26 March. In a Twitter post seen by Pindula News on 17 March, ZEC said:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) would like to advice the public that the voter registration blitz and voter education has been extended by five days.
</blockquote>
ZEC previously complained about recurring unscheduled power cuts which the commission said were negatively affecting the ongoing final mobile voter registration blitz at some centres.
ZEC said the situation was been worsened by the cloudy weather conditions prevailing in some parts of the country.
ZEC listed about 5 000 centres that citizens who are eligible to vote can visit to register during the mobile biometric voter registration with Bulawayo having 71 centres.
The voter registration process precedes the 2023 harmonised elections scheduled for July this year.
The ongoing process comes after President Mnangagwa last month gazetted the final delimitation report, which marks the country’s constituencies and wards.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

ZEC Has Extended Voter Registration Exercise

City of Harare bosses and Pokugara Properties representatives were acquitted of malicious damage to property charges when they appeared before Harare regional magistrate Mrs Florence Chakanyuka on Thursday.
The City bosses, Zvenyika Chawatama, Samuel Nyabeze, Lasten Taonezvi, Pokugara Properties representative Marlone Ndebele and former Pokugara general manager Michael Van Blerk were acquitted after the State failed to prove a case against them.
They were facing allegations of ordering the destruction of a house in Borrowdale that was built with a fraudulent building plan.
The house was built by the complainant George Katsimberis in a joint venture agreement with Pokugara Properties to build cluster houses in Borrowdale.
In acquitting them, Mrs Chakanyuka said the State failed to prove that the demolition order issued by the council was invalid and no evidence led to challenging the order.
She further said the joint venture was invalidated by the High Court and it left Katsimberis with less power to challenge the building as the City Council didn’t know Katsimberis but Pokugara Properties which had the land.
Mrs Chakanyuka also ruled that the witness Roy Nyabvure’s testimony was all marred by bitterness and could not provide clear evidence on who approved that building plan.
She said there was no evidence submitted before the court that showed the building plan was circulated to all departments that are responsible for approving the plan.
The magistrate also acquitted the City bosses of an alternative charge of criminal abuse of office allegations saying there was no evidence to prove the letters written by the council were irregular.
Only two witnesses testified in this matter, Katsimberis and Nyabvure, <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/city-of-harare-bosses-pokugara-acquitted/">The Herald</a> reported.
Katsimberis had built the showroom in a joint venture agreement with Pokugara Properties but the building was condemned after it was discovered that the plan was fraudulent and the material used was not correct.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Katsimberis' Case: Council Officials, Pokugara Properties Acquitted

Mozambique, a Southern African nation, has announced visa exemption for 28 countries mainly for tourism and business visits.
The exemption applies to visitors holding ordinary passports and allows for a 30-day stay and it is renewable for an additional 60 days.
The model adopted by the Mozambican government is similar to the United States visa waiver programme which also requires travellers to register on a platform for pre-screening at least 48 hours before travelling and to pay a processing fee of MZN650 (+/- £8.50).
The visa exemption announcement follows the launch of a platform in December last year that allowed prospective visitors to apply for an electronic pre-authorization to travel into the country.
Mozambique announces visa exemption for 28 countries in the wake of the introduction of the Mozambican e-Visa which reportedly has seen an increase of over 30% in the volume of travellers entering the country compared to the same period in the previous year.
The Council of Ministers approved the decree, according to <a href="https://www.businesstechafrica.co.za/business/tourism/2023/03/15/mozambique-announces-visa-exemption-for-28-countries/">FurtherAfrica</a>. Reported the publication:
<blockquote>
The eVisa platform commits the country to respond to applications within 5 days, but general feedback places an average response at 24 hours and the few issues reported are usually created by users not uploading the required documentation.
As Mozambique announces visa exemption for 28 countries, it advances measure 13 (which proposes changes for the Visa regime) of the Economic Acceleration Measures Package (PAE) announced by President Nyusi on August 2022.
The package contained 20 reform measures aimed to deliver a path for a more competitive and more accessible country to visitors and investors alike.
The stimulus package implementation is coordinated by a delivery unit created for the effect under the country’s Ministry of Economy and Finance.
</blockquote>
A Full List of Approved Countries:
<blockquote>
<ul>
<li>Belgium</li>
<li>Canada</li>
<li>China</li>
<li>Denmark</li>
<li>Finland</li>
<li>France</li>
<li>Germany</li>
<li>Ghana</li>
<li>Indonesia</li>
<li>Israel</li>
<li>Italy</li>
<li>Ivory Coast</li>
<li>Japan</li>
<li>Netherlands</li>
<li>Norway</li>
<li>Portugal</li>
<li>Russia</li>
<li>Saudi Arabia</li>
<li>Senegal</li>
<li>Singapore</li>
<li>South Korea</li>
<li>Spain</li>
<li>Sweden</li>
<li>Switzerland</li>
<li>Ukraine</li>
<li>United Arab Emirates</li>
<li>United Kingdom</li>
<li>United States of America</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Mozambique Announces Visa Exemption For 28 Countries

Police have accused Smart Marlon Mandofa, a <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Anti-Corruption_Commission">Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC)</a> officer, of colluding with a Harare businessman involved in a corruption case.
Mandofa was investigating the case of Ofer Sivan, a prominent Harare-based businessman who allegedly defrauded his former business – Gilad Shabtai and Munyaradzi Gonyora – partners of US$762,000 and ZWL$22 million.
He was arrested by police last Friday on suspicion of colluding with Gilad Shabtai.
According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), Mandofa was associated with Shabtai, who was wanted for fraud and tax evasion at the time Sivan made allegations against him.
The allegations have since been dropped, with acting Prosecutor General Nelson Mutsonziwa confirming in a letter that there was no more pending case against Shabtai. Said Mandofa through his lawyers:
<blockquote>
These allegations are clearly hogwash. There is no clarity as to how and when I associated with Gilad Shabtai at the time. If a person is on an alleged outstanding warrant of arrest which is not placed or served upon me, should I refuse to investigate a matter which is allocated to me.
Does this mean that where the facts disclose an offence, I should not arrest a suspect and take them to court. Isn’t it correct that the complainant was supposed to challenge his placement on remand in the first place not to arrest a mere police officer like me.
</blockquote>
According to inside sources, the arrest of Mandofa by police was intended to interfere with an ongoing investigation, which is scheduled for trial on March 28, ZimLive reported.
This has also been interpreted by some inside sources as an attempt by Sivan to avoid prosecution, as the police have targeted all of the investigating officers who could testify in his fraud case.
According to inside sources, ZACC’s attempts to engage the police in the matter have so far been futile.
Mandofa, through his legal representatives, denied the charges describing them as trumped-up charges orchestrated by Sivan.
He added that there is no clarity as to how he allegedly associated with Shabtai. Madndofa added that there is a need for evidence which proves the alleged association.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Police Accuse ZACC Officer Of Colluding With Businessman In A Corruption Case

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Reserve_Bank_of_Zimbabwe">Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ)</a> has expressed concern over a documentary by <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/al-jazeera-investigations-to-expose-astonishing-plunder-looting-in-zimbabwe/">Al Jazeera documentary</a> which allegedly intends to expose corruption and plunder of natural resources in Zimbabwe. 
In a statement seen by Pindula News, the central bank said the reports in the unscreened documentary are “sensationally wild, false and malicious.” Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
<h2> SCURRILOUS AND MALICIOUS ALLEGATIONS CARRIED IN  SNIPPETS FROM UNSCREENED AL JAZEERA DOCUMENTARY</h2>
The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (the Bank) is concerned and disturbed by sensationally wild, false and malicious media reports, carried in snippets of an unscreened Al Jazeera documentary, produced by the network’s Investigative Unit, purveying the impression that the Bank is “Southern Africa’s laundromat” or “Southern Africa’s laundry service” for an alleged African gold mafia involved in illicit gold dealings, corruption and money laundering.
The snippets cite a few boastful and name-dropping individuals, who neither work for nor represent the Bank in any capacity, as sources of the allegations. The outrageous reports quote one of the cited individuals as boasting that he has diplomatic cover to “fly dirty cash into Zimbabwe where it can be laundered through gold and other investments”. Another individual is reported to have asserted that “there is an
opportunity, a hell of a big opportunity to wash money here [in Zimbabwe]”. Yet another self-serving claim is that one individual bragged that his phone “is on speed dial” with the Bank’s Governor. These are all false and malicious allegations.
It is unbelievable that such bizarre claims, allegedly made by private individuals who have no relationship with the Bank whatsoever, have been elevated to gospel truths and published with reckless abandon.
It is particularly strange that the reports claim that “through the Bank, Government is using illicit ways as a scheme to bust international sanctions placed on political leaders and government entities”. The Bank is not a sanctioned entity, and the cited individuals are not sanctioned persons either. There are no sanctions on Zimbabwean exports and imports, including trade in gold, to warrant Zimbabwe to “circumvent international sanctions” through illicit trade in gold. As such, the claim that there is “a scheme to bust international sanctions using illicit ways” shows beyond doubt that the peddlers of this narrative have a sinister agenda with nefarious objectives of tarnishing
both the Bank and the Republic of Zimbabwe. 
It is also disturbing that the scurrilous allegations have largely been widely and recklessly reported by a well-known and outspoken social media activist, elements of the local media and Zimbabwean-linked digital media platforms, who are closer to home to take responsibility by independently verifying the damaging and unproven allegations before publishing or peddling them. It is disappointing and deplorable that Zimbabweans are at the forefront of spreading malicious falsehoods about the Bank and the country.
Curiously, the leaked snippets of the unscreened documentary omit the Bank’s responses to 32 questions Al Jazeera Investigative Unit posed to the Bank in connection with the allegations. In the spirit of transparency and social responsibility, the Bank responded to all the 32 questions in detail on 27 February 2023 and the responses clearly show that the narrative, so far purveyed, is nothing but false. The Bank is disappointed that either Al Jazeera Investigative Unit has not included the Bank’s responses in the information they have leaked to or shared with their selected media houses and journalists, or the concerned journalists have elected to ignore the Bank’s responses and only published the fake allegations in a malicious pursuit of a hidden agenda, unknown to the Bank or Al Jazeera. 
The Bank reserves its rights to take appropriate legal action or initiate necessary sanctions against the interviewees and purveyors of the fake news to protect its fiduciary responsibilities in the national interests. 
Meanwhile, the Bank advises the public to dismiss the false allegations with the contempt they deserve. The Bank remains confident that the truth cannot be hidden, and that the truth shall prevail. 
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/John_Mangudya">John P Mangudya</a>
Governor
6 March 2023
</blockquote>
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

RBZ Speaks On Al Jazeera Documentary On Corruption

President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Emmerson_Mnangagwa">Emmerson Mnangagwa</a> has said he is excited by the return of skilled Zimbabweans who went abroad to seek economic refuge in other countries on different occasions since the turn of the millennium.
He said their exposure to more economically advanced countries will be significant to Zimbabwe which he said has embarked on a major construction drive evident in the construction boom across the country. 
President Mnangagwa made the remarks in this week’s article of his column in <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/were-on-cusp-of-construction-boom-president">The Sunday Mail. </a>
He also said the country’s economic growth had spurred heightened construction activity. Mnangagwa said:
<blockquote>
Even factories — which the economic downturn had reduced to a tumble-down, derelict state — are now undergoing renovation or getting replaced by entirely new, modern structures which are second to none.
Even more pronounced has been private constructions, especially residential. Zimbabweans, including those in the diaspora, have been building homes of all sizes: from start-ups to family homes and even mansions.
This trend reflects in the rural sector, at growth points especially, where modern, upmarket structures are changing the rural landscape.
</blockquote>
This, he said, underlines the fact that the rural-urban nexus is now reciprocal and mutually reinforcing.
President Mnangagwa added that the return of skilled Zimbabweans is exciting since it coincides with the growth in the construction industry. He added:
<blockquote>
Thankfully, our tertiary institutions now have the capacity to deliver these specialised skills to the construction industry, thus taking it to a higher level.
I am also happy that more such skills are repatriating themselves back home after years of invaluable exposure in more advanced jurisdictions.
</blockquote>
The president said a number of initiatives are required if the economy is to profit from bigger multipliers. He said these measures include:
<blockquote>
i). the need to control inflation, 
ii). incorporate new technology, 
iii). tame unofficial settlements, 
iv). provide basic amenities, 
v). densification of settlements and 
vi). provision of social amenities for rural settlements.
</blockquote>
He also emphasised the need to insure rural homes against risks and provide mortgages suitable for all. 
Thousands of Zimbabweans are set to come back home in June from South Africa when their <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwean_Exemption_Permit_Visa">Zimbabwe Exemption Permits (ZEPs)</a> expire.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

President Mnangagwa Excited Over The Return Of Skilled Zimbabweans

Luke Dzviti, the chairperson of the Zimbabwe Immigration Federation, has said South Africa will be worse than Zimbabwe in a few years it won’t be surprising to see South Africans looking for jobs north of the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Lakes,_Rivers,_Bridges_and_Waterfalls_in_Zimbabwe">Limpopo river</a>.
He said South Africa is collapsing at a faster rate and would be worse than its neighbour soon. 
In a video posted on Twitter, Dzviti said:
<blockquote>
South Africa is slowly heading the Zimbabwe way. At this rate, I think South Africa will be worse than Zimbabwe in a few years. And it won’t be surprising to see South Africans crossing the Limpopo River going to look for alternative jobs or food from Zimbabwe.
You see what’s more disturbing is that the food prices have gone so high and most people cannot afford to eat normal food the way we were doing about five years ago. The price of bread, the price of cooking oil most ladies are always complaining about the price of cooking oil which has gone up by double the amount. What is happening is not only painful by scary.
At this rate it’s unknown what the price of food will be like by this time next year when fuel price especially is going up by R2 – R3 at any given moment but salaries are not going up at the same rate.
</blockquote>
South Africa is home to thousands of Zimbabweans and citizens of other countries who went there as economic refugees.
Its economy has, however, been stagnant for years amid fears it could be worse.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

"South Africans Will Start Looking For Jobs In Zimbabwe"

Rimbi Travel and Tours bus that was travelling from Zimbabwe to Malawi was involved in an accident on Tuesday.
The development was announced by Information Ministry Permanent Secretary, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nick_Mangwana">Nick Mangwana,</a> who posted on his Twitter account saying the accident happened near Mutoko.
He said that a Rimbi Travel and Tours bus was involved in an accident with a motorcycle and a Toyota Fortuner near Mutoko Centre. 
The accident claimed the life of the motorcyclist who was run over while his passenger was seriously injured.
From left: Rimbi Travel and Tours bus in an accident (Image: Nickon Mpofu/Facebook)
The latest bus accident comes weeks after the <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/rimbi-travel-tours-suspension-lifted-but-barred-from-harare-nyamapanda-route/">government lifted the suspension</a> that had been imposed on the bus company after one of its buses was involved in a fatal accident with a Zebra Kiss bus along the Harare-Nyamapanda route.
In video clips that went viral, the two buses were racing against each other before the accident that claimed the life of one conductor and left several passengers injured.
After the suspension of its operating license, Rimbi Travel and Tours initially sued the government but later backtracked on the decision.
The bus company has been barred from servicing the Harare to Nyamapanda route.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Rimbi Tours Bus Involved In An Accident

MDC Alliance leader, Senator <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Douglas_Mwonzora">Douglas Mwonzora</a>, has recalled three <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Norton">Norton</a> Town Council councillors for alleged allegiance to the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Citizens%27_Coalition_for_Change">Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC)</a> led by <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nelson_Chamisa">Nelson Chamisa</a>.
In a letter dated February 27, 2023, Local Government minister, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/July_Moyo">July Moyo,</a> notified Norton Town Council’s Town Clerk that Mwonzora had recalled the three councillors. Reads the letter seen by Pindula News:
<blockquote>
<h2>RECALL OF CERTAIN COUNCILLORS </h2>
The above subject matter refers.
I wish to inform you that I am in receipt of a letter from the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/MDC">Movement for Democratic Change (MDC-T)</a> stating that the following councillors have been expelled from the Party:-
1. CIIr Rosemary Chnoyera Ward 9 
2. Cllr Charles Dube Ward 2 
3. Cllr Muchaneta Munyeveri Ward 3
In terms of Section 278(1) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, as read with Section (1)(k), the above-mentioned wards are now vacant.
In terms of Section 121 of the Electoral Act, please proceed to inform the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Electoral_Commission">Zimbabwe Electoral Commission</a> of these vacancies.
</blockquote>
The recalls started in <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/full-supreme-court-ruling-on-mdc-leadership-crisis-case/">2020 when the Supreme Court ruled</a> that Nelson Chamisa, a former Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, was not the legitimate leader of the MDC.
To date, several councillors and or Members of Parliament have been recalled for their allegiance to Nelson Chamisa.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Mwonzora Has Recalled 3 Councillors

The number of Instagram followers of Hip hop star Mukudzei Chitseme, better known by his stage name <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Holy_Ten">Holy Ten</a>, continue to drop following the explosive interview in which he dissed Winky D.
The Kumba Kune Vanhu hitmaker shocked music fans when<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/he-is-a-snake-longer-than-his-dreadlocks-holy-ten-disses-winky-d/"> he described  Winky D as ‘a snake’ during the controversial interview </a>on Wednesday. 
Before that interview,  Holy Ten had 289 000 Instagram followers, a number which has rapidly dropped to the current 279 000.
The rapper has lost 10 000 followers within 5 days and has now even made his Instagram account private.
<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a>

Holy Ten Loses 10k Instagram Followers In Less Than 5 Days

There is an influx in the number of Zimbabwean citizens applying for healthcare jobs in the United Kingdom.
However,  the recruitment process, just like all arrangements, comes with the risk of scams and subsequently morden day slavery.  
The UK government has for the umpteenth time warned healthcare job seekers to be on high alert for scams and morden day slavery. 
Here are some tips (provided by the UK government) on how you can avoid scams and understand the recruitment process for  healthcare jobs in the UK.
1. Make sure your agency is on the ‘ethical recruiters list’. You can check the list on this <a href="https://www.nhsemployers.org/articles/application-process-ethical-recruiters-list">link.</a>
2. Do get a contract showing the salary, hours, location,  and any repayment clauses. Make sure your employer sticks to that contract. 
3. Be aware of signs of exploitation.  These include little of not payment at all, being asked to repay large amounts of money, as well as working very long hours with no off days.
4. Do not apply for jobs which you feel are too good to be true. 
5. Do not pay for an agency to find you work in the UK, it’s against the UK laws.
6. Do not be forced or threatened into signing a contract. 
7. Understand your rights, do not accept threats of deportation from your employer.  
If you feel that something is not right and sense the possibility of scams or morden day slavery, do not hesitate to report your concerns to the numbers below;
0300 123 1100 (within the UK)
+44 300 123 1100 (outside the UK)
You can also get help by calling the 24-hour morden slavery helpline 
0800 0121 700 (Withing the UK)
+44 800 0121 700 (outside the UK)
Be safe!

TIPS: How To Avoid Scams In the Recruitment Process For Healthcare Jobs In The UK

Football fans in the mining town of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Shamva">Shamva </a>are relishing the prospect of experiencing Premier Soccer League (PSL) football after the the mining town’s flagship team Simba Bhora, secured promotion.  
Simba Bhora, owned by mining tycoon Simba ‘Buju’ Ndoro,  won the Northern Region Division One last year to earn promotion into the PSL.
The team, which is now being coached by former Dynamos coach <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Tonderai_Ndiraya">Tonderai ‘Stanza’ Ndiraya</a>, will play their home games at Wadzanai Stadium in Shamva, which is currently being renovated to meet PSL standards.  
Trymore Bore, a staunch Simba Bhora fan based in Shamva, told Pindula News in a telephone interview that football fans in the nickel-rich town cannot wait for the season to start in March. 
<blockquote>
We are very excited. We have been supporting this team since it was in Division 2, with the hope that one day we will have Premiership football. It has finally happened and we are excited. 
</blockquote>
Chamunoda Pukuti, another Shamva-based Simba fan, is looking forward to seeing traditional giants of Zimbabwean football Dynamos, Highlanders and CAPS United,  in Shamva.
<blockquote>
The idea of seeing the big three playing against out team is mind-blowing, we are really looking forward to it. We will support our team through thick and thin.
</blockquote>
In an attempt to strengthen their squad ahead of their debut season in the PSL, Simba Bhora have so far ropped in former Warriors winger <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Talent_Chawapiwa">Talent Chawapiwa, </a>former Dynamos captain <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Partson_Jaure">Partson Jaure </a>and <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Blessing_Moyo">Blessing Moyo</a>, previously with defending league champions FC Platinum.
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Shamva Town Braces For Premiership Football

The load shedding being experienced in Zimbabwe will soon be a thing of the past, as ZETDC promises improved supply by June, the power utility company’s Marketing Executive Lot Maziriri has said.  
The country has been experiencing increased levels of load shedding due to the suspension of electricity generation at its main hydro plant at Kariba, because of water shortages.
But speaking at the Consumer Education and Awareness Outreach Program on safe use of energy products in Dzivaresekwa today, Maziriri assured the nation that by June,  there will be an improvement in the supply of electricity.  He said:
<blockquote>
If we add 300 megawatts to the 1200 megawatts currently available,  we will have 1500. Then, the problem will be less.
 If we add 300 more, there will be surplus. This surplus will be coming before June. So the electricity problem is going to be fixed soon. It’s just a phase, which will pass soon.
There was a time when we were asking ourselves how come we were no longer experiencing power cuts, we will have that scenario again. We are fixing the problem.
</blockquote>
Maziriri admitted that electricity being paid in local currency affects the purchasing of equipment from outside Zimbabwe, saying ZETDC even took a US dollar loan to buy vehicles. He said:
<blockquote>
ZETDC took a loan to purchase vehicles from outside the country. We are not able to purchase electricity from outside due to lack of foreign currency.
But in a few weeks, supply will definitely improve, just give us a few weeks.  
</blockquote>
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Load Shedding Will Soon Be A Thing Of The Past: ZETDC Official

The Department of Veterinary Services has raised an Anthrax awareness alert in Makoni District, Manicaland Province.
The bacterial illness, which is rare but dangerous, affects animals but human beings in contact with the affected animals can also get infected.  
Rusape Town Council instructed farmers in a statement that for the next 30 days, no livestock can stray to other areas, in a move aimed at preventing the spreading of Anthrax. Said the Council:
<blockquote>
Rusape Town Council would like to advise its valued residents and stakeholders that the
Department of Veterinary Services has issued an anthrax outbreak alert at Dombo AHMC and
Bingaguru AHMC in Makoni District. 
No livestock (Cattle, Sheep or Goats) from the mentioned areas maybe moved or allowed to stray to other areas for the next thirty days.
Members of the public are being warned against consuming, purchasing or selling livestock suspected to have died from anthrax. In addition, suspicious sickness or sudden death of animals or illegal movement of animals must be reported to the police and the Department of Veterinary services.
Butcheries and abattoirs in and around Rusape and the whole Makoni district are urged to be
extra vigilant in guarding against procuring anthrax contaminated livestock.
</blockquote>
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Anthrax Wave Hits Manicaland Province

The Namibian Revenue Agency (NamRA) has announced that any second hand car transiting  through Namibian can only do so in a car trailer and not on its own wheels.
Cars imported by Zimbabweans from the United Kingdom transit through Namibia and previously, one would be allowed to drive a car through Namibia on its way to Zimbabwe, but NamRa says not anymore, starting 1 March.  Said Namra in a statement.
<blockquote>
The Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) herewith informs vehicle importers and the public that with effect from 1 March 2023, all second-hand motor vehicles will be required to transit through Namibia only when on a car carrier trailer and no second-hand motor vehicle will beallowed to transit on its own wheels.

This amendment to the Customs and Excise Rules of Designation of Places of Entry,
Authorised Roads and Routes, and Related Issues: Customs and Excise Act, 1998 (Act No.
20 of 1998), results from observed deviation were imported vehicles are dubiously declared
as in transit but end up in the local market and subsequently registered on the National
Traffic Information System (NaTIS) database without paying the required import taxes.
This notice is issued in accordance with Government Notice No. 403 published in
Government Gazette No. 7978 of 15 December 2022, Paragraph 2(a)(1)(b). Second-hand
motor vehicles referred herein are specified in Annexure A of the Government Gazette No.
5293 of 23 September 2013.
</blockquote>
Since the Zimbabwean car industry has been in a dire state for decades, many Zimbabweans can only afford second-hand cars, with some importing from the UK while some get them from Japan.
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