THE government’s introduction of presumptive taxes on public transport operators, while framed as a necessary measure to boost state revenues, places an unbearable strain on the long-suffering citizens and the small businesses that keep the country moving. This move is a textbook example of a government looking for a quick fiscal fix without considering the…
IN A world increasingly marred by doubt and cynicism, the recent comments by Vice President Constantino Chiwenga on the imperative of transparency and accountability in leadership are a breath of fresh air. Addressing the African Women Leaders Network conference at the weekend, Chiwenga’s impassioned plea for integrity across all sectors — from government and business…
A ROBUST scientific research is urgently needed to understand the underlying causes of the rising mental health crisis in Zimbabwe. While anecdotal evidence points to a link between socio-economic hardships and mental distress, a comprehensive, data-driven study is essential to move beyond assumptions and develop effective, evidence-based solutions. Without this critical research, any policy or…
THE recent launch of the ‘No to Illegal Firearms, Misuse of Toy Guns and Dangerous Weapons’ blitz by the police is a welcome and necessary step in the fight against rising crime. With national police spokesperson Paul Nyathi revealing 748 arrests in a single week, it is clear that the proliferation of illegal firearms is…
YOUTH minister Tino Machakaire’s recent claims that some senior Zanu PF officials are involved in drug trafficking are deeply concerning and must be thoroughly investigated. Speaking at a Zanu PF youth league meeting last week, Machakaire courageously asserted that some “leaders” are not only importing and selling drugs, but are also using their positions to…
HEALTH minister Douglas Mombeshora is absolutely correct — domestic health financing is the bedrock of strong national health systems. Speaking at the “Rethinking Africa’s Health Financing” conference in Zambia recently, Mombeshora made a crucial point. “For too long, our health systems have depended heavily on external support,” he said. “While this has carried us through…
THE Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ)’s announcement that the country will transition to an exclusive use of the local currency, ZiG, by 2030 is a step in the right direction. De-dollarisation is a necessary process for the country to regain control over its monetary and fiscal policies, which is crucial for the nation’ s development….
AUTHORITIES’ stated intentions to tighten social media laws in response to “abuse” of digital platforms is a complex issue that balances the need to maintain public order and the fundamental right to freedom of speech. While it is reasonable for any government to address issues like incitement to violence, hate speech, and misinformation, the language…
MINISTER of Local Government Daniel Garwe’s reported decision to establish a task force to investigate corruption in local authorities is a necessary step, but it must be more than just political theatre. For too long, corruption has been a debilitating cancer gnawing at the core of urban and rural councils, leading to a catastrophic breakdown…
IN THE last 12 months, Zimbabwean athletes have achieved massive success in international events. The biggest achievement in individual sports occurred at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where the sprint duo of Tadiwanashe Makarawu and Makanakaishe Charamba advanced to the final of the men’s 200m race. This was a historic moment for Zimbabwe, as they were…
