AGP Executive Report

Zimbabwe Women Cricket: Mark Coles has been appointed head coach for Zimbabwe’s five-match T20I series against South Africa starting September 11 in Bulawayo, with a full support team named by Zimbabwe Cricket. Mining & Tax Policy: New special mining lease tax rules and a wider push for beneficiation are in focus, as officials outline how mining costs, deductions and development spending are treated under Zimbabwe’s tax framework. Energy & Investment: Government has opened the Cabora Bassa Basin to international oil and gas exploration and classified coal as a “special critical mineral,” while Vice-President Chiwenga is set for a China visit to attract value-add investment. Transport & Regional Deals: Mnangagwa secured UAE commitments tied to Mt Hampden and Lake Kariba maritime transport after the ferry disaster. Governance & Service Delivery: Bulawayo’s Umvutsha Cemetery burials exposed equipment shortages at City Council, while a parliamentary committee verified repatriation systems after anti-migrant protests in South Africa. Law & Order: Police in Mutare deployed drones for smart policing, targeting illegal mining and other crime, alongside back-to-school road safety enforcement. Local Politics & Accountability: Wicknell Chivayo renewed pressure on Highlanders FC over alleged misuse and governance gaps after a cash injection. Economy & Compliance: ZIMRA continues enforcement and compliance messaging, including rental tax pressure on landlords and broader vendor crackdowns.

Zimbabwe Cricket: Mark Coles has been appointed substantive head coach of the Zimbabwe women’s national team, with a full backroom staff named, ahead of the five-match T20I series against South Africa starting September 11 in Bulawayo. Local Government & Economy: Harare street vendors vow to defy a September 9 eviction deadline, warning authorities are removing livelihoods without offering workable alternatives. Anti-Corruption & Politics: Bulawayo deputy mayor Edwin Ndlovu and councillors face an attempted extortion case, with allegations that ZACC pressured some accused to implicate him. Public Finance & Governance: The World Bank warns Zimbabwe’s push to abandon the US dollar could trigger capital flight and undermine stability if ZiG credibility isn’t firmly established. Public Services: Learners and teachers in rural Kariba are stranded as the Mbuya Nehanda ferry sank, forcing costly detours ahead of schools reopening. Security & Justice: A Midlands man is on the run after allegedly torching four huts at his in-laws’ homestead over alleged infidelity. Business & Regulation: Zimbabwe Tourism Authority has closed Bulawayo eatery Sis Bee’s Kitchen under the Tourism Act.

Zanu PF Succession Fight: Zanu PF’s Harare province backed a push to postpone the next national congress to 2030 and endorsed President Emmerson Mnangagwa as its preferred leader until then, reigniting internal succession pressure. Bulawayo By-Election: CCC’s Sengezo Tshabangu faction faces fresh doubt after its Ward 1 candidate Mduduzi Sibanda was linked online to a Zanu PF membership card ahead of the 3 October by-election. ZIMRA Tax Crackdown: ZIMRA has introduced a presumptive rental income tax (15% of gross rental income) and is demanding detailed landlord information, triggering backlash from property owners. Harare Media Enforcement: ZBC begins a two-week door-to-door TV and radio licence inspection drive across 28 Harare suburbs from 7–18 September. Mining & Safety: A disturbing small-scale mine recovery video has renewed calls for stronger safety and emergency preparedness. Sports: South Africa beat Zimbabwe by 48 runs to win the Windhoek tri-series final; Zimbabwe’s Makanakaishe Charamba won bronze in the 200m at the Diamond League Final. EU Diplomacy: EU Ambassador Katrin Hagemann died suddenly in Harare after breakfast, with no cause disclosed.

Zanu-PF Power Struggle: Fresh factional tension is brewing inside Zanu-PF over calls to postpone the party’s elective congress and align President Mnangagwa’s first-secretary tenure with Constitution Amendment Act No. 3, with critics warning it could breach the party constitution and undermine internal democracy. Currency & Finance: The World Bank warns Zimbabwe against rushing to make ZiG the sole currency by 2030, saying premature de-dollarisation could trigger capital flight and reverse stabilisation gains; meanwhile, Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube says falling inflation (to 2.9%) should eventually lower interest rates and enable longer-term loans. Rule of Law & Rights: Gukurahundi victims’ families are urged to use existing legal mechanisms to seek recognition and justice; Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights also highlighted the need for stronger protections for families affected by enforced disappearances. Public Safety & Governance: Police intensify enforcement against plateless vehicles and unauthorised blue lights/sirens, warning of arrest and impoundment. Service Delivery: Government says it is improving service delivery in Binga, including commissioning council clinics and transport for councillors. Energy Reform: Zimbabwe opens electricity distribution and retail to private players via 25-year renewable licences, with developer obligations to fund infrastructure for new developments. Mining Policy: Government suspends antimony and tungsten exports to push beneficiation and in-country value addition. Court Watch: A High Court rejected a detailed divorce parenting plan that tried to police WhatsApp messages and other daily family routines. Diaspora Pressure: Citizens Watch Zimbabwe raises alarm over worsening conditions and constitutional changes, saying more people are seeking sanctuary abroad.

Constitutional Court Challenge: Zimbabwe’s Constitutional Court has set 22 September 2026 for a hearing on an application seeking permission to challenge the CAA3 change that removes direct presidential voting and hands the final choice to MPs and senators. Local Governance & Public Order: Government has set a September 9 deadline for illegal vendors to vacate streets, with Harare vendors vowing to resist the crackdown. Tourism & Connectivity: Air Zimbabwe has started daily Harare–Masvingo flights, with a water-cannon salute at Masvingo airport as the province gears up for the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe Expo. Land Reform for Retirees: Officials say title deeds are unlocking new opportunities for retirees to use land as a bankable, income-generating asset under the Land Title Deed Programme. Environment & Justice: Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights is pushing for specialised courts and judicial training to better handle wetland and environmental disputes. Mining & Investment: Zimbabwe’s lithium value is reported to have surged in 2026, while officials also seek Chinese partners to modernise railways and boost mineral-linked growth.

ZANU-PF Online Pushback: Levison Chambati warns social media political aspirant Brett Muvet not to confuse Facebook virality with real power or votes, arguing ZANU-PF’s deep structures still matter most. Activist Claims Escalation: Muvet doubles down on his Varanda VeZimbabwe (VVZ) bid, alleging a US$15 million bounty on his head as he vows to keep challenging President Mnangagwa. Economy Watch: The World Bank cautions Zimbabwe against rushing to make ZiG the sole currency, warning premature de-dollarisation could trigger capital flight and reverse stabilisation gains. Inflation Update: Zimbabwe’s inflation is reported to have fallen to decades-low levels, credited to tighter monetary policy and exchange-rate stability. Mining Diplomacy: Zimbabwe’s delegation at Africa Down Under (ADU) in Perth says investor interest is shifting from general promotion to specific commodity needs, with follow-ups planned; the Chamber of Mines also highlights growing participation. Health & Welfare: Dr Douglas Mombeshora urges the Ministry of Health to turn strategies into real implementation, while United Bulawayo Hospitals moves toward local Ebola testing after lab equipment installation nears completion. Child Protection: VP Kembo Mohadi reiterates government commitment to child welfare after touring Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa Children’s Home in Chiredzi. Governance & Service Delivery: President Mnangagwa witnesses a waste-to-energy EPC deal for Geo Pomona and Zhejiang Wei Ming, and caps 734 HIT graduates, urging skills to industrialise and modernise Zimbabwe.

Media & Development: A World Bank Group division director toured Zimpapers’ newly established digital newsroom in Harare, praising how the integrated media house pushes government and public messaging across TV, radio, print and online. Education & Jobs: President Mnangagwa urged Harare Institute of Technology graduates to use their skills to industrialise and modernise Zimbabwe after capping 734 students at the 17th graduation. Waste-to-Energy Deal: Mnangagwa witnessed signing of an EPC contract for a waste-to-energy plant between Geo Pomona Waste Management and Zhejiang Wei Ming Group, positioning it as a solution to refuse collection challenges. Mining Investment Push: Deputy Mines Minister Dr Celeb Makwiranzou told Africa Down Under in Perth that Zimbabwe is courting mining investors with better infrastructure, regional integration and a more accommodating regulatory environment, including options for captive power. Party Politics: Zanu PF activists have called for Mnangagwa to be declared “life president,” citing economic and infrastructure gains since 2017. Public Order & Rights: Government is moving toward a demerit points system that could cancel driving licences for repeat traffic offenders, as road deaths remain a concern. EU Diplomacy: EU ambassador Katrin Hagemann died suddenly in Harare at 53, with no cause disclosed. Security & Courts: Hillcrest School in Mutare, through ZLHR, has approached the High Court seeking an urgent order to stop Toronto Mines’ gold-mining activities at Christmas Pass over environmental and learning disruption claims.

EU-Diplomacy Shock: EU ambassador Katrin Hagemann has died suddenly at her Harare home, with the EU delegation yet to give a cause of death, raising questions about the next phase of EU-Zimbabwe engagement on governance and reforms. Urban Governance & Livelihoods: Harare vendors vow to defy a government ultimatum to vacate streets by Sept 9, arguing authorities are ignoring economic realities and offering no viable alternatives as a nationwide “zero-tolerance” clean-up looms. Local Elections: Three candidates filed for the Bulawayo Ward 1 by-election (Oct 3) after the removal of former councillor Josiah Mutangi, setting up a three-way contest between Zanu-PF, CCC and an independent. Public Health & Social Protection: A One Stop Centre in Umzingwane is credited with reducing violence and HIV risk for adolescent girls and young women, with calls to replicate the model across Matabeleland South. Mining & Investment Policy: Zimbabwe’s mining reforms and beneficiation push were pitched to investors at Africa Down Under, with emphasis on stronger mining-right security and faster dispute handling. Regional Security Spillover: South Africa police uncovered a third crystal meth lab in under four months on a remote farm, highlighting how isolated properties are being used for drug manufacturing.

Lithium Value-Add Payoff: Zimbabwe’s raw mineral export ban is already boosting earnings, with 2026 lithium concentrate sales hitting 816,774.35 tonnes worth about US$1.247bn—up 413% in value year-on-year—fuelled by tighter beneficiation rules. Regional Fuel Security: Zimbabwe and Mozambique are expanding the Beira-Feruka pipeline, raising pumping capacity from 3m to 5m cubic metres per year by end-2027, aimed at building a fuel buffer for SADC against supply shocks. Local Governance Crackdown: Harare City Council has started demolitions in low-density suburbs, targeting illegal businesses and structures—after warnings that “pay scheme” housing and land invasions won’t be regularised. UK Migration Protection: The UK has eased visa rules for some Skilled Worker holders recognised as modern slavery victims, allowing them to switch employers without immediately risking immigration status—an important relief for Zimbabweans in care work. School Reopening Guidelines: Government issued third-term directives stressing quality teaching, learner safety, and exam readiness, while reiterating that approved fees and levies must be paid by parents/guardians. Public Sector Leadership Push: ACBF says Africa’s reforms are often blocked by leadership gaps, urging stronger public-sector transformation leadership to turn policy into services. Mining Modernisation: Rockwell Automation is partnering with Mimosa Mine to upgrade its operational technology network, focusing on cybersecurity and resilience as mining digitises. Sports Note (South Africa-Zim): South Africa’s Sinalo Jafta is ruled out of the T20I tour to Zimbabwe with a hamstring injury, with Jae-Leigh Filander set for a maiden call-up.

Constitutional Power Shift: President Mnangagwa’s constitutional changes have taken effect in Parliament, with 10 newly appointed senators sworn in under Amendment No. 3, including ZANU-PF figures and senior officials—raising fresh debate over whether the reforms strengthen institutions or expand executive influence. Tax Pressure on Landlords: Government says ZIMRA is stepping up enforcement against property owners earning rental income without paying tax, warning that income-generating houses are treated like businesses and targeting affluent areas. Zanu-PF Mobilisation: Preparations are underway for the 23rd ZANU-PF National People’s Conference in Chinhoyi (Oct 12–17), with provinces expected to mobilise funds and delegates to review delivery of Vision 2030. Harare/Urban Crackdown: Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe has set a September 9 deadline for illegal vendors in Harare’s CBD and wider metro to vacate undesignated sites ahead of a zero-tolerance clean-up. Fuel Corridor Expansion: Zimbabwe and Mozambique are pushing Phase II of the Beira-Feruka/CPMZ pipeline expansion, lifting capacity from 3 to 5 million cubic metres per year by end-2027 to boost regional energy security and trade links. Bulawayo Ward Politics: ZANU-PF has selected Mathias Tsikira as its Ward 1 candidate for the Oct 3 Bulawayo by-election, setting up a closely watched contest in the city centre. Regional Finance Signal: Zimbabwe’s risk profile is getting a boost after the World Bank removed it from its fragile and conflict-affected list, with economists expecting lower risk premiums and more investment interest.

Zanu-PF Party Politics: Zanu-PF is ramping up for its 23rd National People’s Conference in Chinhoyi (Oct 12–17), with preparations led by Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri and provincial mobilisation underway. Local Elections: The Ward 1 Bulawayo by-election race is officially underway after Zanu-PF named Mathias Tsikira as its candidate for the Oct 3 poll. Courts & Accountability: Harare magistrates denied Kelsea Tafirenyika bail in a US$9.3m money-laundering case, citing fears she could flee; the case links alleged proceeds to properties and vehicles. Crime & Justice: Ecobank robbery extradition is nearing completion as South African authorities finalise bringing the Vumbunu brothers to Zimbabwe, after delays stalled parts of the prosecution. Urban Governance: Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe ordered illegal vendors in Harare to vacate by Sept 9 ahead of a nationwide clean-up, warning of zero tolerance. Energy & Regional Diplomacy: Zimbabwe and Mozambique broke ground on Phase II of the CPMZ pipeline expansion, boosting capacity and aiming at fuel self-sufficiency for the region. International/Regional Anti-Corruption: Zimbabwe will host a SADC Anti-Corruption Expo and Games in Victoria Falls (Sept 17–19) with VP Mohadi set to open. Public Safety: Police launched a nationwide crackdown on vehicles without number plates and those fitted with unauthorised blue lights and sirens.

Zambia-Zimbabwe Diplomacy: President Emmerson Mnangagwa hailed Hakainde Hichilema’s second-term win as proof of regional trust, pledging deeper cooperation and urging African-led development. Regional Politics: SADC chair Cyril Ramaphosa skipped Hichilema’s inauguration, sparking debate over whether it signals a principled stance or domestic constraints. COMESA Summit Prep: Zimbabwe is gearing up to host the 25th COMESA Summit next month, with a coordination committee set to manage infrastructure upgrades for 1,000+ delegates as the country prepares to take the COMESA chairmanship. Anti-Corruption & Local Government: Bulawayo councillors accused of extortion appeared in court for bail pending trial after police said they were found hiding under a table during arrest. Parliament & Media Rights: Musicians told a parliamentary committee that ZIMURA is failing artists through alleged corruption, low royalty payouts, and lack of transparency, calling for audits. Police Crackdown: Zimbabwe Republic Police ordered nationwide enforcement against motorists with illegal blue lights/sirens and missing registration plates, including arrests and vehicle impounds. Prisons & Reintegration: ZPCS and Tonganyika Trust trained inmates in welding, beauty therapy, mortuary science, horticulture and IT to support reintegration. Human Rights/Immigration: In South Africa’s Western Cape, at least 100 immigrants—including many from Zimbabwe—were reportedly held in police cells for visa overstays, with rights groups alleging harsh conditions.

Zimbabwe Business Forum in New York: ZimTrade says Zimbabwe will pitch trade, investment and tourism at a high-level Business Forum on September 20 alongside UNGA, aiming to deepen buyer links and financing partnerships. Fuel pipeline expansion: President Mnangagwa is set to join President Daniel Chapo in Mozambique to launch the second phase of the CPMZ pipeline expansion, boosting Beira-Feruka capacity to five million cubic metres and strengthening regional fuel supply. Veld fire emergency: Matabeleland North reports over 40,000 hectares already burned since July 1—nearly nine times last year—warning of major damage to livelihoods and grazing land. Traditional medicine push: First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa calls for scientific research, regulation and integration of traditional medicine into the health system. Zambia election fallout (regional politics): Hakainde Hichilema is sworn in for a second term amid disputed results and the detention of his main rival, with observers raising concerns about vote tallying and verification. Chivhu crash response: Government declares a state of disaster after a minibus-truck collision killed 27 and pledges to cover medical and burial costs. ZIFA accountability: ZIFA highlights transparency after audited 2025 accounts show revenue rising to US$4.645m. Court cases: A Harare woman gets bail over alleged counterfeit Tongaat Hulett sugar repackaging; a student faces court over an alleged CABS cyber heist worth over US$1.1m; and a Harare businessman is convicted of kidnapping linked to a corporate fraud probe.

ZANU PF Succession Fight: ZANU PF Harare Province has moved to endorse President Emmerson Mnangagwa to remain both President and First Secretary until the next congress, pushing the National People’s Congress from 2027 to 2030—an internal move seen as aimed at shaping the party’s leadership path amid speculation around VP Constantino Chiwenga’s ambitions. Harare Court Case: Two men accused of killing Harare cellphone dealer Sipho Million Ncube have been ordered to mount their defence after the High Court dismissed their discharge bid, with the case tied to a 2020 cellphone deal and alleged robbery plot. Business/Justice: Lebo M has been ordered by a US court to pay Zimbabwean comedian Learnmore Jonasi US$39,560 in legal fees after losing a defamation case over a “Lion King” chant joke. Energy Deal: ZETDC has signed an escrow and security agreement with Munyati Evergreen Energy to ring-fence revenues for the 100MW Munyati solar plant, positioning it as Zimbabwe’s biggest solar project yet. Women in Economy: Government ministers say young women are being backed into business through programmes spanning finance, tourism, agriculture and mining. Crime & Accountability: ZIMRA is probing Borrowdale Brooke properties linked to the Finance Ministry permanent secretary, while ZRP has acquired machines to detect fake documents and IDs.

Women’s Economic Push: President Mnangagwa told 8,000 women at the Young Women for Economic Development convention to lead enterprise, innovation and industrial growth, promising government to remove barriers like limited access to finance and workspaces. Fisheries & Food Security: Midlands State University backed the Presidential Fisheries Scheme with plans for a large aquaculture project at Pitscottie Dam to boost domestic fish supply and rural protein access. Harare Accountability: Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume said poor CBD pavement rehabilitation may be linked to intoxication and announced mandatory drug testing for council workers. Tax Scrutiny in Borrowdale Brooke: ZIMRA demanded detailed property and tenant records from Borrowdale Brooke Homeowners Association, raising questions about compliance by senior Finance Ministry-linked permanent secretary Joachim Guvamatanga. Police Drug Crackdown: ZRP Commissioner-General Stephen Mutamba warned officers using mbanje/mutoriro face dismissal, saying addiction has spread into the force. Rights & Justice: Human rights groups marked the UN Day of Victims of Enforced Disappearances, calling for truth, justice, reparation and action on unresolved cases. Road Tragedy Aftermath: Burials began for 27 African Apostolic Church crash victims after a Harare-Masvingo Highway collision, as families and congregants mourned. Whistleblower Bill: Parliament consultations on a Whistleblower Bill focused on protecting people who report corruption from retaliation.

Digital Risks & Payments: Zimbabwe is being urged to tighten cyber safeguards as digital ID and online payments expand across the region, with Kenya and Ethiopia pushing ahead on secure identity systems. Bank Cybercrime Case: A Midlands State University student, Sabelo Malunga, is in Harare court over an alleged US$1.1m CABS malware heist, including remote access software, fraudulent ZIPIT/VISA transactions, and links to mobile money channels. Constitutional Politics Abroad: In Guinea-Bissau, voting and early counting are underway in a referendum that could expand presidential powers after a 2025 coup, with opposition calling for a boycott. Road Disaster Response: Zimbabwe has declared a State of Disaster after a Harare–Masvingo highway crash killed 27, with government pledging coordinated support for survivors and families. Zanu PF Fundraising: Zanu PF Mashonaland West says it has raised over US$500,000 for its October conference, with senior officials and business backing. Organised Crime Focus: South Africa’s airports and air-cargo hubs are flagged as organised-crime priority areas amid major drug-smuggling busts.