Dozens Martyred Amid Israeli Attacks on Gaza, Including Aid Seekers

By Al Mayadeen English

2 Aug 2025 11:33

"Israel" continues its deadly assaults on Gaza, killing aid seekers, women, and displaced civilians amid a worsening humanitarian crisis and ongoing siege.

At dawn, at least 12 Palestinians were martyred while waiting for humanitarian aid at the Netzarim axis, as Israeli forces opened fire and shelled multiple locations across the Gaza Strip. Among the victims were three women, highlighting the persistent targeting of civilians during aid distributions.

In al-Zawaida, central Gaza, a Palestinian man, his wife, and their three children were martyred following an Israeli airstrike that destroyed their home. The attack is part of a broader campaign by "Israel" that continues to strike residential areas across the besieged territory.

Also, three Palestinians were martyred and others wounded when an Israeli drone dropped an explosive on tents sheltering displaced persons near the industrial junction north of Khan Younis, in southern Gaza. In a separate attack northwest of the city, two women were killed when Israeli forces shelled a tent housing displaced Palestinians.

The attacks are part of what human rights groups describe as the systematic and ongoing massacre in the Gaza Strip. "Israel" continues to target civilians, including displaced families and aid seekers, in direct violation of international humanitarian law.

The comprehensive siege on Gaza has further intensified the humanitarian crisis. With limited access to food, medicine, and clean water, fatalities from hunger and malnutrition are rising daily. Entire communities are being left to suffer under a deliberate policy of starvation and displacement.

Dozens of Palestinians killed in Gaza as IOF resume onslaught

As the brutal Israeli onslaught continues with no restraint, Al Mayadeen's correspondent in the Gaza Strip reported at dawn Saturday that 71 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli fire, including 38 aid seekers. 

In central Gaza, one person was martyred and others injured in an Israeli airstrike on a home in the Yarmouk area of the al-Daraj neighborhood. Additionally, two martyrs, killed while waiting for aid at a distribution site in the Netzarim corridor, were brought to al-Shifa Hospital.

Another martyr's body was recovered from under the rubble of a destroyed home in the al-Atatra area, west of Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip.

In this context, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights stated that 1,373 Palestinians have been martyred while waiting for aid in Gaza since late May, noting that 859 of them were killed in the vicinity of Gaza Humanitarian Foundation sites, and 514 along food convoy routes.

On Friday alone, 11 more Palestinians were killed, including two near a GHF distribution point, according to Gaza’s civil defense agency. The killings follow a well-documented pattern of Israeli soldiers firing on civilians congregating around GHF trucks and aid convoys.

Only 73 aid trucks entered Gaza on Friday

In a report released by the Gaza Government Media Office on Saturday, it was stated that only 73 humanitarian aid trucks entered the Gaza Strip, most of which were looted due to the security chaos systematically and deliberately engineered by the Israeli occupation as part of its so-called policy of "engineering chaos and starvation."

The statement reads, "We stress that the actual daily needs of the Gaza Strip require no less than 600 trucks of aid and fuel to meet the minimum standards for health, service, and food sectors, especially amid the complete collapse of infrastructure caused by the ongoing genocide."

Additionally, the statement expresses strong condemnation against the "continued crime of starvation, the closure of crossings, and the prevention of humanitarian aid from entering. We hold the Israeli occupation and the state complicit in this genocide fully responsible for the worsening humanitarian catastrophe. We call for the immediate opening of all crossings and the urgent entry of adequate food supplies and infant formula."

Also on Friday, the Gaza Tribal Gathering confirmed that the humanitarian aid entering the Gaza Strip "has not benefited any of the residents" and has been "stolen by the enemy."

In a press conference, tribal representatives rejected on Friday any cooperation with Israeli-US aid distribution centers, stating, “They provide us with aid soaked in blood, and we refuse to deal with them.”

The tribes appealed to the international community and the US envoy to witness firsthand the tragic conditions in Gaza. “Nearly 90 Palestinians are martyred every day. Will this satisfy the free world?” the gathering asked.

Palestinian Resistance Targets Israeli Forces in Southern Khan Younis

By Al Mayadeen English

2 Aug 2025 23:26

Al-Qassam, Al-Quds Brigades, and others launched mortar and rocket attacks on Israeli forces in Khan Younis, inflicting major casualties in fresh confrontations.

Palestinian resistance factions intensified their military operations against Israeli occupation forces in southern Gaza on Saturday, targeting troop gatherings and command sites in Khan Younis.

Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of the Hamas movement, confirmed that its fighters fired a barrage of mortar shells at Israeli forces stationed near al-Rantisi Mosque in the Maan area south of Khan Younis.

In a separate joint operation, the al-Quds Brigades, the armed wing of the Islamic Jihad movement, and the Al-Amoudi Brigade of the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades announced a coordinated attack on an Israeli command center. The site, located on Street 5 in Khan Younis, was reportedly hit with a 107mm rocket. An Israeli helicopter was seen landing at the site shortly after the strike, believed to be evacuating wounded soldiers, suggesting confirmed casualties among the occupation forces.

Fighters target command and control center

Earlier today, Saraya al-Quds released footage showing fighters targeting another Israeli command and control center north of Khan Younis with the same type of rocket, indicating a consistent strategy of precision strikes on military infrastructure.

Meanwhile, the Al-Nasser Salah al-Din Brigades, the armed wing of the Popular Resistance Committees, also declared that its fighters shelled a concentration of Israeli troops and military vehicles with mortar rounds in the vicinity of Khuza’a, north of Khan Younis.

Palestinian resistance groups continue to engage Israeli occupation forces across multiple axes of ground incursion inside Gaza, executing ambushes and precision strikes that have resulted in confirmed Israeli casualties.

Hamas escalates operations

Two days earlier, the al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, reported targeting a group of Israeli occupation soldiers and vehicles east of the al-Qarara area, in eastern Khan Younis, with multiple mortar shells.

Prior to that, al-Qassam fighters detonated three barrel bombs inside an Israeli occupation vehicle hub south of the al-Batn al-Samin area, also in Khan Younis, resulting in casualties among the soldiers.

These operations come amid continued confrontations across several axes in the Gaza Strip, as resistance factions persist in launching targeted attacks against invading Israeli occupation forces despite relentless bombardment, ongoing attempts at ground incursions, and the suffocating siege on the Strip.

Staggering Israeli losses

Israeli media revealed that the ongoing war on Gaza has cost the Israeli occupation approximately 300 billion shekels (around $80 billion), with analysts suggesting the real figure may have already surpassed that estimate.

Shaul Amsterdamski, economic affairs commentator for the Israeli Kan broadcaster, reported that internal discussions within the occupation’s Ministry of Finance are now focused on the spiraling cost of the war, particularly the military operations component.

Amsterdamski noted that the more the war expands, especially through the occupation of additional territory, the more the costs rise dramatically. The most significant burden, he explained, stems from the prolonged deployment of reserve soldiers, as well as expenses related to ammunition, fuel, and operational logistics.

He added that massive weapons procurement deals, totaling tens of billions, have been made to bolster the Israeli military’s capabilities, warning that these expenditures will have a decade-long financial impact on Tel Aviv's budget.

The economic analyst also cautioned against the occupation’s shifting discourse, where the very concept of "occupation" has been largely ignored. He emphasized that controlling Gaza would entail full administrative responsibility over civilian life, including education, food, sewage, and basic services, in addition to maintaining a large, costly ground force presence.

South African Govt Intervening to Cushion Blow of Harsh US Tariffs on Local Businesses - Ramaphosa

The announcement on possible aid for South African exporters comes as Pretoria continues to negotiate with Washington for more favourable trade terms.

President Cyril Ramaphosa. Picture: Simphiwe Nkosi/EWN.

JOHANNESBURG - President Cyril Ramaphosa said the government is working on a set of interventions to cushion the blow of the harsh US tariffs on local businesses.

The announcement on possible aid for South African exporters comes as Pretoria continues to negotiate with Washington for more favourable trade terms.

Goods entering the US from South Africa face a 30% duty.

US President Donald Trump signed a fresh executive order on Thursday, modifying some reciprocal tariff rates initially set out on April 2nd.

The new order takes effect in a week’s time, on 7 August.

Presidency concerned about new Trump tariffs

In it, Trump said, “Some trading partners have agreed to, or are on the verge of agreeing to, meaningful trade and security commitments with the United States, thus signalling their sincere intentions to permanently remedy the trade barriers.”

President Cyril Ramaphosa said that while horse trading continues behind closed doors, South Africa is already considering interventions for affected industries.

“We’re going to support our companies through negotiations, but also, there are other interventions we are working on to cushion the blow to our companies. Our objective is to save jobs; we want to preserve jobs for those companies that are going to be adversely affected.”

Agriculture, especially citrus and the automotive sector, is among those expected to take the hardest knock, while some products remain on a list of exemptions, including some mining commodities.

Additional multimedia reporting by EWN's Simphiwe Nkosi

ANC: Trump's Decisions on Reciprocal Tariffs Expected

On Thursday, Trump announced he was imposing 30% tariffs on South Africa, which will come into effect on 4 August. 

African National Congress (ANC) secretary general Fikile Mbalula on a National Working Committee visit to the Western Cape on 20 July 2025. Picture: X/ @MYANC

JOHANNESBURG - The African National Congress (ANC) said United States (US) President Donald Trump’s decisions on the reciprocal tariffs come as no surprise.

On Thursday, Trump announced he was imposing 30% tariffs on South Africa, which will come into effect on 4 August. 

And while the ANC said it's leaving it to the government to wade through the choppy economic waters, its secretary general, Fikile Mbalula, said the matter is definitely on the agenda.

“We will, among others, discuss the implications of the tariff increase, in terms of the economic trajectory and the path forward, how it impacts our economy, and what the options [are].”

Despite concerns from some, including the Democratic Alliance (DA) in Johannesburg, Mbalula insists the City of Johannesburg is and will be ready to hold the much-anticipated G20 Summit later in 2025. He has also shared his thoughts on news from the US president that he might not make it to the country to participate in the event himself.

“They’ve now decided to not send the head of state of America; they decided to send somebody because South Africa will hand over to the United States with regard to the G20, our government must deal with that.”

ANC NEC Says This Weekend's Meeting is Above Reviewing GNU

Its Secretary General, Fikile Mbalula, said discussions should not be about doing away with the GNU, adding that should it be raised, it will be discussed

FILE: ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula during a media briefing at Luthuli House in Johannesburg on 13 March 2025. Picture: Spamandla Dlamini/EWN

JOHANNESBURG - The African National Congress (ANC) said this weekend’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting is not about reviewing the Government of National Unity (GNU).

Its Secretary General, Fikile Mbalula, said discussions should not be about doing away with the GNU, adding that should it be raised, it will be discussed.

The ANC and the Democratic Alliance (DA), the bigger parties in the national coalition, have had a series of public spats that saw the budget proposal being presented at least three times.

This led to members in both parties expressing a desire to walk away from the GNU.

A packed NEC agenda awaits the ANC this weekend, which will include an assessment of the GNU and ways to strengthen the coalition government.

The ANC will wade through issues including the United States (US) tariffs, the state of local government and a move by its alliance partner to go at it alone in next year’s municipal polls.

Mbalula said, "We’ve met with the SACP [South African Communist Party], what then do we need to do as the ANC with regards to the response we are getting from the SACP, which in the main is saying no retreat - no surrender."

Mbalula said two integrity commission reports will also be tabled on Saturday.

However, none will speak to embattled Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.

Countdown to Abbay Dam: Ethiopia Pushes for Equitable Nile Use

July 30, 2025

ADDIS ABABA – As Ethiopia prepares to inaugurate the Abbay Dam, the country has reiterated its position that the Nile River is a shared natural resource that must be governed under a cooperative and equitable framework benefiting all riparian nations.

In a commentary originally published by Al Jazeera, the Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA)Executive Director Jafar Bedru Geletu emphasized that the Abbay Dam is central to Ethiopia’s development agenda and is vital for addressing the country’s pressing energy needs.

Ethiopia, with a population exceeding 130 million and growing rapidly, currently has only 55 percent electricity access, a major barrier to industrialization and economic growth.

The dam, which is set to generate 5,150 megawatts of electricity and produce an estimated 15,760 gigawatt hours annually, is expected to double Ethiopia’s current energy output. According to officials, this will not only supply electricity for domestic consumption but also boost exports to neighboring countries, promoting regional integration.

Jafar noted that Ethiopia fully funded the nearly 5 billion USD hydropower project without external financing, underlining its significance as a symbol of national resilience and self-reliance. He also stated that the dam will not reduce water flow to downstream countries, as its operation requires the continuous release of water to generate electricity.

Despite Ethiopia’s assurances, downstream countries ,particularly Egypt, have expressed objections, often citing colonial-era water-sharing agreements from 1929 and 1959, which excluded upstream nations such as Ethiopia. Jafar challenged the validity of these agreements, arguing that they are outdated and do not reflect modern realities or the rights of other riparian states.

“Ethiopia was never a party to these colonial treaties,” he said, adding that arguments rooted in “historic rights” are no longer acceptable in the 21st century. He pointed to the Nile Basin Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA) as a modern, African-led initiative aimed at ensuring fair and sustainable use of the river among all basin countries. Ethiopia, along with Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and South Sudan, has signed and ratified the agreement.

The Ethiopian government has consistently maintained that the Abbay Dam will benefit the entire region by regulating water flow, reducing flooding and sedimentation, and enhancing electricity access across East Africa. The inauguration of the dam comes after more than a decade of construction, during which the government mobilized internal resources and public contributions to complete the project.

The Nile River, shared by 11 countries, remains a critical source of water and livelihood for millions across the continent. As such, Ethiopian officials continue to advocate for a cooperative framework that supports mutual development rather than unilateral control.

The GERD, located on the Blue Nile, known in Ethiopia as Abay, marks a turning point in the country’s hydropower development and broader economic transformation.

BY STAFF REPORTER

THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 30 JULY 2025

African Women Unveil Pan-African Trade Network

July 31, 2025

ADDIS ABABA –A new pan-African women’s business network, CONWOBAA, has been launched to boost intra-African trade, uniting over 100 associations to empower women entrepreneurs and leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.

The Continental Network for Women’s Business Associations in Africa (CONWOBAA) was unveiled at the inaugural Global SME Ministerial Meeting held in Johannesburg last week.

The pioneering initiative brings together 102 women’s business associations from across six African regions: West Africa, North Africa, the Indian Ocean, Central Africa, East Africa, and Southern Africa. It was facilitated by the International Trade Centre (ITC) in partnership with the African Union Commission and supported under ITC’s SheTrades and One Trade Africa strategies, through the African Women in Business Pavilion (AWIP).

According to organizers, CONWOBAA will serve as a collaborative platform to empower women-led enterprises, promote inclusive trade, and expand access to regional and continental markets through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“This network underpins ITC’s broader efforts through SheTrades and One Trade Africa to create real market access for women-led enterprises,” Deputy Executive Director of the International Trade CentreDorothy Tembosaid during the announcement of the Association’s leadership. “We are delighted to bring together women’s business associations from across Africa to advance intra- African trade.”

The Association also revealed its inaugural leadership team. DimakatsoMalwela, President of Women of Value South Africa (WOVSA), was elected as CONWOBAA’s first Chairperson. She will be deputized by FanjaRazakaboana, President of the Madagascar Women Entrepreneurs Association (GFEM).

In her acceptance remarks, Dimakatsoe mphasized that the network is uniquely positioned to address the pressing challenges facing women entrepreneurs on the continent. “Women entrepreneurs face a multitude of challenges, primarily revolving around access to funding and financial resources, gender bias and discrimination, work-life balance, and establishing strong support networks and confidence,” she said. “As the Association looks to the future, we will seize opportunities to advance policies that address these challenges.”

CONWOBAA is expected to play a key role in helping women entrepreneurs access cross-border trade opportunities and build sustainable businesses through AfCFTA.“This powerful network is led by women in leadership who are successfully running businesses and advocating for the growth of women-led enterprises across Africa,” Dorothy added. “We look forward to the continued growth of this network and the opportunities it will create.”

BY STAFF REPORTER

THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 31 JULY 2025

HoA Embraces Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative

July 31, 2025

ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative (GLI) is gaining significant traction across the Horn of Africa (HoA), with regional and international partners actively joining the country’s ambitious environmental campaign.

From tree planting along cross-border railways to diplomatic participation, the movement is fast becoming a model of collective environmental stewardship.

Today’s massive tree planting campaign themed: “In the 7th years- 700 Million Trees”. The campaign aims to plant 700 million seedlings in a single day as part of a broader target of 7.5 billion trees during the rainy season. The initiative, launched in 2019 by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD), seeks to combat climate change, reverse deforestation, restore degraded land, and increase forest coverage to 30 percent by 2030.

A highlight of the regional collaboration is the joint effort between Ethiopia and Djibouti, where over 1,000 employees of the Ethio–Djibouti Railway representing both nations participated in planting trees along the railway corridor. This act not only supports ecological restoration but also strengthens people-to-people ties and symbolizes growing cross-border solidarity.

The Ethio–Djibouti Railway CEO Eng. Takele Uma said the campaign reflects a shared commitment to sustainable development and regional cooperation. Ethiopia has previously supplied Djibouti with hundreds of thousands of seedlings to support urban greening and reforestation efforts.

The GLI has also extended support to Kenya. In an interview with ENA, Kenya– Ethiopia Friends Association Chairperson Joe Akech revealed that Ethiopia has donated around 2 million seedlings to Kenya, encouraging other African nations to emulate the initiative. “Most African countries should follow Ethiopia’s example to protect the ecosystem,” he noted.

International support has also surged. Members of the diplomatic community in Addis Ababa, including ambassadors and embassy staff, have been participating in tree planting activities in solidarity with Ethiopia’s environmental goals.

During the launch of the fourth round of the campaign, former African Union Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat praised the initiative as a continental model: “The Green Legacy Initiative is exemplary and should be emulated by other African countries.”

In 2023 alone, Ethiopia planted more than 566 million seedlings in a single day, surpassing its target. Diplomats from countries including China, Poland, Belgium, Namibia, France, Nigeria, and others took part, with Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima among the prominent participants. The U.S. Ambassador to Ethiopia Ervin Massinga, as well as representatives from Russia, Denmark, and the EU, have also shown continued support.

Since its inception, the Green Legacy Initiative has drawn global attention for its ambition and scale. In its inaugural year, over 350 million trees were planted in one day, far exceeding the 200 million target, establishing Ethiopia as a leader in continental reforestation efforts.

As the HoA faces growing threats from climate variability, desertification, and land degradation, Ethiopia’s Green Legacy is setting a precedent for integrated regional action—one that combines environmental resilience with diplomacy, development, and hope for a greener future.

BY MESERET BEHAILU

THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 31 JULY 2025

Ethiopian Premier Mobilizes Nation for Massive Tree-planting Move

July 31, 2025

ADDIS ABABA – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has issued a nationwide call for collective action as Ethiopia embarks on one of its most ambitious environmental efforts to date planting 700 million trees in just 12 hours.

Taking to his official social media platforms, the Prime Minister reaffirmed Ethiopia’s steadfast commitment to environmental restoration through the Green Legacy Initiative (GLI), which he launched in 2019.

“Starting today at 6 A.M., Ethiopia will once again rise to the challenge of building a greener, more resilient future. As part of our GLI, we aim to plant 700 million seedlings in a single day,” the Premier announced.

He underscored that this year’s campaign goes beyond achieving a numeric target. “This is more than just tree planting. It is a call to action for every citizen ,young and old, urban and rural to join hands in restoring our environment, protecting water sources, improving livelihoods, and securing a sustainable future for generations to come.”

The Prime Minister emphasized that the effort reflects the unity, strength, and resolve of the Ethiopian people. “Together, we can grow not only trees but also a stronger, greener Ethiopia.”

Since its launch, the GLI has positioned Ethiopia as a continental and global leader in reforestation and climate resilience. Over the past six planting seasons, more than 40 billion seedlings have been planted across the country.

Last year alone, Ethiopia planted over 615.7 million seedlings in a single day, surpassing its initial target of 600 million and setting a new benchmark for global mass tree-planting efforts.

The 2025 campaign is expected to further enhance the country’s reforestation drive and inspire similar movements across Africa and beyond.

BY ESSEYE MENGISTE

THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 31 JULY 2025

Ethiopia’s National Tree Campaign Underway with Aim to Plant 700 Million Seedlings in One Day

By AMANUEL GEBREMEDHIN BIRHANE

10:58 AM EDT, July 31, 2025

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (AP) — Ethiopia launched a national campaign on Thursday to plant 700 million trees in one day as part of an ambitious conservation initiative that aims to plant 50 billion trees by 2026.

The reforestation campaign has been a personal project of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed since 2019.

Tesfahun Gobezay, state minister for the Ethiopian Government Communication Services, told reporters before 6 a.m. local time that some 355 million seedlings had already been planted by 14.9 million Ethiopians.

It was not possible to verify the government’s figures. Ethiopia has a population of more than 120 million people.

“We kicked off this year’s one-day green Legacy planting early this morning,” Abiy said on social media platform X. “Our goal for the 7th year is 700 million seedlings. Let’s achieve it together.”

Authorities say some 40 billion tree seedlings have been planted since 2019. The target for 2025 is 7.5 billion trees.

Abiy took power in 2018 as a reformist. He won the Nobel Peace Prize for making peace with neighboring Eritrea but a war that erupted shortly afterward in the Ethiopian region of Tigray damaged his reputation as a peacemaker. He now he faces another rebellious uprising in the Amhara region.

Many public offices are closed Thursday to make time for tree planting. Thousands of public servants have been dispatched across the east African nation to help plant seedlings made available through the official bureaucracy.

At the break of dawn, many were seen planting trees in the capital Addis Ababa. At a site in Jifara Ber dozens of people were involved, including children.

Almaz Tadu, a 72-year-old grandmother, brought her grandchildren to a tree planting event she said reunites her with neighbors.

“I have come with my mother and this is my third time planting trees,” said 13-year-old student Nathenael Behailu. “I dream of seeing a green environment for my country.”

Another Addis Ababa resident, Ayanaw Asrat, said he has heeded the call for the last three years. “I came early and I have so far planted 15 seedlings. I am very happy to contribute to creating greener areas across Addis,” he said.

Abiy himself was active in Jimma, the largest city in the southwestern region of Oromia. Cabinet ministers were sent to other regions to support local officials.

But there are critics.

Kitessa Hundera, a forest ecologist at Jimma University, told The Associated Press that a “noble” reforestation initiative was being carried out by non-experts who could not define conservation objectives regarding site selection and other technical issues.

He cited concern over mixing exotic species with indigenous ones and the apparent failure to report the survival rate of seedlings planted over the years. He also doubted it was possible to plant 700 million seedlings in one day.

“Planting 700 million seedlings in one day needs the participation of about 35 million people, each planting 20 seedlings, which is practically impossible,” he said.

SADC, EAC Chairs Hailed for Seeking Lasting Peace in DRC . . .Africa Urged to Take Charge of Resolving Conflict on the Continent

Sunday Mail  

August 3, 2025

SADC chairperson President Mnangagwa and his Kenyan counterpart President William Ruto, who is also the EAC chairperson, walk to the venue of the meeting on the DRC at State House in Nairobi on Friday. — Picture: Presidential Photographer Tawanda Mudimu

Africa Moyo recently in NAIROBI, Kenya

THE SADC and East African Community (EAC) chairpersons have been hailed for their continued pursuit of lasting peace in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Africa has also been urged to take charge of peace processes on the continent to guarantee durable calm.

This emerged at the joint meeting of the EAC-SADC co-chairpersons in Nairobi, Kenya, on Friday.

The SADC and EAC chairpersons, Presidents Mnangagwa and William Ruto, respectively, convened the meeting to formally appoint a panel of five facilitators to drive the peace process.

They are former Presidents Uhuru Kenyatta (Kenya), Sahle-Work Zewde (Ethiopia), Mokgweetsi Masisi (Botswana) and Olusegun Obasanjo (Nigeria), as well as former interim President of the Central African Republic Catherine Samba-Panza.

In his remarks, African union (AU) Commission chairperson Mr Mahmoud Ali Youssouf praised leaders of the two regional blocs for their commitment to peace in the eastern DRC.

“It is indeed a great source of satisfaction that our leaders devote time and energy to try and solve crises on the continent,” he said.

“I can only praise their efforts and pay tribute to you all for this genuine engagement. Your Excellencies, eastern DRC has been for decades a theatre of mayhem and suffering.

“The population in eastern DRC has been subjected to endless displacement, killing and chronic insecurity for more than three decades, (but) over the past few months, there is a glimmer of hope shaping up and giving all of us reasons to believe that this time around, peace could be reached among all stakeholders.”

Mr Youssouf said the AU was happy with the Washington Agreement signed between Rwanda and the DRC, as well as the Declaration of Principles signed between M23 rebels and the DRC government in Doha, Qatar, on July 19, pledging to implement the deal’s terms by July 29.

A final peace deal is due by August 18.

The two parties had agreed to refrain from attacks, hate propaganda and any attempt to seize new territory.

However, there were reports on Monday that the M23 had seized two villages in North Kivu.

The AU, Mr Youssef said, underlines the “centrality of its mediation role in all the crises of our continent”.

“Now, it is paramount to capitalise on any breakthrough or progress that can bring peace to our member countries,” he said.

“However, there is need for better coordination and more coherence if we are to succeed in the implementation of those agreements. Besides, the commission urges all parties to tackle the root causes in a holistic manner.”

Support

President Mnangagwa emphasised the need to support the five facilitators.

“In the spirit of Pan-African unity and progress, we urge all parties to fully support the leadership of our esteemed facilitators and to engage in honest, inclusive and constructive dialogue,” he said.

“Let us take full advantage of the current window of opportunity to secure lasting peace, stability and development for the people of eastern DRC, the region and our continent.”

The engagement between SADC and the EAC, he added, demonstrated the blocs’ collective commitment to the peaceful resolution of conflict in the eastern DRC and the consolidation of peace and security on the continent.

“Collaboration between your esteemed panel of facilitators, the African union and the SADC and EAC regional blocs is key in delivering a lasting solution to this conflict that has negatively impacted the lives and livelihoods of the people of eastern DRC for far too long,” he said.

He underscored SADC and EAC’s readiness to constantly engage with the facilitators until peace and stability are realised.

In his remarks, President Ruto said he believes that a “sustained, coordinated Africa-led peace process remains the best pathway to sustained and peaceful eastern DRC”.

“The two regional organisations and the African union Commission remain available to ensure that the implementation of both the Washington Peace Accord and the Doha Initiative is actualised,” he said.

“Let me reiterate our commitment as joint co-chairs to providing leadership on this process on behalf of our joint EAC-SADC Heads of State and Government Summit. And we did decide to take the historic step, the first time it is happening on this continent to bring two regional economic blocs together, to facilitate the resolution of the process in eastern DRC because we realise that this was a situation that was threatening to run out of control and to destabilise the whole region; that is why both EAC and SADC Summits decided to merge into one process so that we can help the people of DRC.”

Taking charge

Presenting the communique, SADC Executive Secretary Mr Elias Magosi said the meeting commended the panel of facilitators for accepting to guide the process towards addressing the various facets of security challenges in the eastern DRC.

The meeting also adopted the enabling documents outlining the mandate of the facilitators, namely, the framework for the merger of the Nairobi and Luanda processes, the terms of reference for the five-member panel of facilitators appointed by the Joint EAC-SADC Summit and the process design for an inclusive mediation process.

The meeting also resolved to hold a virtual Extraordinary Joint EAC-SADC Summit within seven days to communicate the outcomes of Friday’s meeting.

The African union Commission will also communicate outcomes of the meeting to all AU member states.

It was also resolved that there be an “immediate merger of the EAC-SADC and AU structures to comprise the AU mediator, EAC-SADC panel of facilitators, to report to the Joint EAC-SADC Summit and the African Union”, said Mr Magosi.

There will also be an immediate merger of the technical secretariats of the AU Commission, the EAC and the SADC into a joint secretariat, led by the AU Commission in Addis Ababa.

Terms of reference and related documents will also be consolidated for the AU mediator and the EAC-SADC panel of facilitators, to be endorsed by the Joint EAC-SADC Summit.

Another resolution was on immediate resource mobilisation, including for humanitarian support, which will be centralised and coordinated by the AU Commission.

Hwange New Units Now Integral to Zim’s Energy Security

Sunday Mail  

August 3, 2025

Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Dr Jenfan Muswere (second from right) with Hwange Colliery Company senior management at Hwange Colliery 3 North Mine

Rutendo Nyeve in HWANGE

Hwange Thermal Power Station’s Units 7 and 8, which contributed 53 of Zimbabwe’s total energy output last year, have become integral to the country’s energy security as they are currently powering growth in agriculture, mining and manufacturing.

Last year, the two units, which were constructed after deals signed between Zimbabwe and China, provided a critical lifeline, particularly at a time when power generation at  Kariba Hydroelectric Power Station was significantly low owing to the El Niño-induced drought.

This emerged during a media tour of development projects in Matabeleland North province on Friday, led by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere, which included a visit to Hwange’s latest power generating units.

Hwange Electricity Supply Company’s acting facility site manager Engineer Ngonidzashe Dzumbira said the new units, each designed to generate 335 megawatts, were performing optimally and are expected to meet their annual production goals by December.

“I am responsible for the operations and maintenance of the two units, Unit 7 and Unit 8. The units are designed to generate, each one of them, 335MW, giving us a total of 670MW.

“Currently, we have managed to meet our production targets for the year and we anticipate that as we get into December, we should be able to meet the full year’s production targets,” said Eng Dzumbira.

The generation process begins with coal supplied by two major mines, which is pulverised and burned to produce steam that drives turbines at around 3 000 revolutions per minute.

The electricity produced is then fed into the national grid.

The new units also feature advanced emission-control technology.

A flue gas desulphurisation plant captures sulphur dioxide using limestone, producing gypsum that is sold to cement manufacturers and the agriculture sector.

Low NOx burners reduce nitrogen oxide emissions, ensuring compliance with environmental standards.

“The plant also came in with key infrastructure that will take care of emissions like sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. In terms of sulphur dioxide, we have the flue gas desulphurisation plant, which utilises limestone to trap the sulphur dioxide and in turn produce gypsum, which we also then sell to cement manufacturers as well as the agriculture sector,” said Eng Dzumbira.

“In the year 2024, this facility produced 53 percent of Zimbabwe’s energy requirements. Thus, it bridged the gap that was left as a result of the droughts we experienced and the low water levels at Kariba.”

The commissioning Units 7 and 8 has been a game-changer for the country’s energy landscape.

Last year, they filled the supply gap left by reduced hydroelectric generation, preventing a severe power crisis.

Alongside the two new units, Hwange’s older Units 1 to 6 currently produce a combined 543MW, with ongoing optimisation aimed at increasing output.

Minister Muswere said the investments at Hwange demonstrated the Government’s commitment to energy security and industrialisation.

“This particular provincial media tour is also testimony in terms of achievements to the Government’s commitment to ensure that we achieve energy security and also we contribute towards industrialisation of our country,” he said.

He highlighted joint venture recapitalisation projects aimed at modernising the older units, which have suffered from age-related breakdowns.

He commended the role of the power station in supporting downstream industries, creating jobs and maximising coal’s value.

“The coming on board of Hwange 7 in late May, which produces another 600MW, contributes towards the national grid, thereby ensuring that we have energy security in our country,” he said.

With Hwange Units 7 and 8 performing as expected, Minister Muswere said, the country can look forward to sustained energy stability, reduced reliance on imports and increased support for agriculture and manufacturing through by-products like gypsum.

Commissioned in 2023 by President Mnangagwa under the US$1,4 billion Hwange Expansion Project, the two 335MW units have become the backbone of the country’s electricity supply, especially during drought periods that limit generation at Kariba Hydroelectric Power Station.

Their combined 670MW capacity has been critical in stabilising the grid and reducing costly imports.

Joy as Drug Victims Reunite with Families

Sunday Mail  

August 3, 2025

First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa interacts with twin daughters of one of the patients at Angel of Hope Drug Rehabilitation Centre, who visited their mother alongside other relatives on Friday

Blessings Chidakwa

Sunday Mail Reporter

Jubilant scenes gripped the Angel of Hope Drug Rehabilitation Centre in Mbare as parents and guardians of recovering drug survivors reunited with their loved ones for the first time since they began their rehabilitation journey.

Yesterday and a day before, there were tears, but not of sorrow. These were tears of thanksgiving and awe, as parents and guardians laid eyes on sons and daughters they had once feared were lost forever to drugs.

Some wept silently, others openly sobbed. A few, overcome with joy, sang and danced with unrestrained jubilation.

Others, in moments of pure celebration, were seen carrying their grown children on their backs, including one grandmother, trembling with joy, who hoisted her granddaughter onto her back in celebration.

One of the most heart-wrenching reunions was between a young recovering mother and her two-year-old twin daughters.

The moment the toddlers ran into her arms left even the strongest among the crowd teary-eyed.

Amid the hugs and high emotion stood the First Lady, not as a guest, but as a mother of the nation, moving from family to family, listening, comforting and embracing.

She was deeply immersed in each testimony, some whispered through tears, others expressed in long, trembling hugs.

For the recovering youths, the days were a chance to show their families just how far they had come physically, mentally and spiritually.

Others even pledged to personally help assist bring other drug victims to the centre.

All the drug victims, upon reuniting with their parents and guardians, began by expressing heartfelt apologies for the pain and distress they had caused while under the influence of drugs.

Dr Mnangagwa gave wise counsel to parents and guardians, encouraging them to help mould their children as they prepare to reintegrate into society.

“Now you should help them patiently during their reintegration phase. Even when your child makes a mistake, do not be harsh or remind them of their past life, correct them with love.

“As you spend time together, whether doing household chores or otherwise, do it with love, as they now need it more than ever,” she said.

Dr Mnangagwa also reminisced, sharing with parents the transformation that had taken place since the day their children were enrolled.

“When you left them, your faces were downcast with tears of sorrow, but today you are beaming with joy,” she said.

The First Lady said the centre had played its part in moulding responsible, disciplined and well-mannered children.

Parents described the reunion as nothing short of miraculous.

While smartly dressed and walking with renewed confidence, their children spoke of gratitude, of change and of dreams long buried now rising again.

Before meeting their children, the parents and guardians received counselling on how to interact with them.

This guidance was provided by counsellors, nurses and trainers who work with the children daily.

A grandparent of a girl from Kuwadzana, who had dropped out of tertiary education in her final year, could not hide her joy as she carried the girl on her back with tears of happiness.

“I am overjoyed because my granddaughter is now a transformed person. I couldn’t look her in the eye before, but now I can with pride. Thanks to our First Lady for this wonderful initiative.

“In my heart, it is my wish that she finishes her studies. I will do everything within my capacity to assist her so that she graduates and becomes someone who can be counted in life,” she said.

The student also personally pledged to complete her studies after pleading for forgiveness from her grandmother and mother, whose beaming faces made it clear they were deeply satisfied with her transformation.

“I am now ready to resume my studies and finish with dignity, as I only had one semester left. I was overwhelmed with joy meeting them. Gogo even carried me on her back, and I profoundly apologised for letting her down.

“I promised her that I will never drink alcohol again in my life, it had stolen my future,” she said.

A mother of two little twin girls sobbed as she hugged them, recounting how she had neglected and separated them, with one living with her mother and the other with her grandmother.

“When I saw my children, I was overwhelmed with joy, but also partly disturbed for having been so lost. My gratitude goes to the First Lady for transforming my life. I also thank God for loving me and giving me another chance,” she said.

Both her mother and grandmother were equally overjoyed.

“I thank Dr Mnangagwa for this wonderful, life-changing programme. My child has deeply transformed since the day I left her at the centre.

“I was taken aback by the respect she showed us today. She had no time for her children before, and we were surprised to see her hugging and feeding them. They actually thought I was their mother! The transformation is commendable,” said the mother.

A father of a daughter who once hogged the limelight for all the wrong reasons cried with joy as he interacted with her, deeply shocked at how she had managed to transform.

“She was so rude that I couldn’t bear it. Together with my wife, we tried all sorts of punishment to no avail, but I was surprised by the level of respect she showed us today, including kneeling before us.

“It is clear for all to see that she is now a reformed person. I thank Dr Mnangagwa for the programme she initiated for our children, giving them a second chance. Our plea is that she learns and avoids reverting to her old peers who were a bad influence,” he said.

In a dignified manner, the daughter was over the moon as she interacted with her parents.

“I cursed them when they left me here. I was sceptical, especially because of the lies and rumours we had heard about rehabilitation. But now I feel happy to be among the chosen ones.

“I thank our First Lady for this marvellous programme, which taught us how to be responsible women, including how to do household chores, maintain hygiene and more. The Angel of Hope Foundation is indeed a life-saving angel,” she said.

Guardians of a young man who, just weeks ago, had tried every possible means to escape the centre lying about a heart problem and insisting on an appointment with his fiancée were full of praise for the First Lady.

“Three days before we brought him here, he had spent three nights hallucinating and talking to himself. It broke my heart. But what I saw today is breathtaking. He has changed.

“When we saw him walking towards us, we were in disbelief. His body, skin and tone have changed drastically for the better,” said one of his uncles.

Equally joyful, the young man said he had missed his family.

“On my first day, I lied, complaining of a heart problem. All I wanted was to escape this place. But little did I know it would be my turning point in life. My actions will speak for themselves as I continue my transformation journey.

“I feel reformed and disciplined. My perception of life has changed since the day I enrolled here. There are things I never thought I would do in life, but now I feel energetic and rejuvenated. I thank my uncles for bringing me to this place,” he said.

All the way from Chiweshe, a mother whose two sons had turned into street urchins in Harare was stunned by their transformation.

“I am glad that my son, who had been destroyed by drugs, is now a transformed person. When I spoke with him, I could feel I was talking to a changed man. His level of interaction was top-notch.

“Even his skin is glowing. This place has been a blessing to him. I have another child living on the streets. It is my hope that he, too, along with other youths into drugs, goes through the same rehabilitation process,” she said.

The eldest son, who was rehabilitated, even pledged to personally track down his younger brother so that he too could be rehabilitated.

At first, he said, “I thought vandigona only to realise vandigonera. I never dreamt of this reunion with my family. They nearly didn’t recognise me, as I have gained weight and my face has improved. I had to remind them: ‘I am your son’”.

A sister of one of the survivors recounted how her sibling, under the influence of drug abuse, would undress and bath in the living room even in the presence of men.

“She had lost all sense of privacy and shame,” the sister said. “Drugs took over her mind completely.”

The Angel of Hope Drug Rehabilitation Centre, established under the First Lady’s Angel of Hope Foundation, which can accommodate up to 200 patients, offers more than just detoxification.

It nurtures self-worth, instils discipline and helps rebuild shattered identities through therapy, education and structured routines.

Indeed, in the heart of Mbare, what bloomed on that day was not just joy, but a reminder that redemption is always within reach and sometimes, all it needs is someone to believe.

3 600 Step Forward at Gukurahundi Hearings 

Sunday News  

August 3, 2025

President Mnangagwa addresses the 2025 Liberation Movements Summit in South Africa

Gibson Mhaka, Zimpapers Politics Hub

MORE than 3 600 submissions have been made by individuals and families in Matabeleland North and South provinces that were affected by Gukurahundi disturbances in the 1980s, a development the Government says reflects growing community engagement and trust in the ongoing national healing and reconciliation process.

Zimpapers has gathered that, as of 31 July, a total of 3 648 submissions had been captured.

Matabeleland South accounts for 1 975 submissions, while Matabeleland North has recorded 1 673.

Of the participants, 2 151 were females, while 1 497 were males.

A total of 85 online submissions and 88 audio submissions have been received across the affected districts.

Matabeleland North Province saw 23 online submissions and 23 audios from Hwange District (Chief Wange), while 33 online submissions and 36 audios were from Tsholotsho District (Chief Gampu IV).

Matabeleland South’s Umzingwane District (Chief Mabhena) contributed 29 online submissions and 29 audio submissions.

Attorney-General Mrs Virginia Mabiza, who is also head of the secretariat of the Matabeleland Peacebuilding Outreach Programme, said the level of participation was a key indicator of the initiative’s growing impact.

“The high volume of online submissions, particularly the notable participation of women, reflects growing community confidence in the integrity and inclusiveness of the outreach process,” she said. “It demonstrates that communities are beginning to trust that their voices will be heard, respected and acted upon . . . We continue to ensure transparency in our operations, maintain close coordination with traditional leaders and provide continuous community feedback.”

The active involvement of traditional leaders is considered a cornerstone of the programme’s grassroots success.

Over 60 chiefs are reportedly already posting on the online platform.

“The active involvement of chiefs on the online platform highlights the crucial role that traditional leaders are playing, not only in facilitating hearings but also in fostering community ownership of the process,” said Mrs Mabiza.

“Their leadership has fostered trust within the communities, creating a solid foundation for national healing and reconciliation.

“Moving forward, traditional leaders will continue to be central to the reconciliation process by guiding the implementation of community-specific recommendations.”

Recognising the effectiveness of the online platform in broadening the reach for testimonies, the programme is exploring further innovations to ensure no affected family is excluded.

“Building on the success of the online platform, we recognise the diverse needs and realities of affected communities and are working closely with service providers to develop and adopt emerging technologies that respond to practical experiences in the field,” she added.

“For instance, toll-free call-in services are being explored to respond to queries and guide individuals on how to participate in the programme. The goal remains clear: to ensure that no affected family is excluded and that every voice has a safe, respectful and accessible way to be heard.”

President Mnangagwa officially launched the Gukurahundi public hearings programme in July last year. In the process, traditional leaders were empowered to conduct the hearings.

Initiated in February 2019, the Government’s approach seeks to resolve the Gukurahundi issue through an internal, home-grown process that reinforces national unity.

The Second Republic has demonstrated a strong commitment to facilitating a healing process that brings closure to past conflicts, aligning with President Mnangagwa’s vision of nation-building and fostering unity.

Zimbabwe Fiscal Restraint Ushers in Durable Stability 

Sunday Mail  

August 3, 2025

Tapiwanashe Mangwiro

THE Government has sent a clear signal of its resolve to maintain a tight fiscal stance, even as it accelerates infrastructure investments, underscoring its commitment to bolstering long-term growth without jeopardising the gains registered over the past 15 months.

In his Mid-Term Budget Review delivered to Parliament on Thursday, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube reported that infrastructure spending reached ZiG15,7 billion in the first half of 2025, financed from existing resources, and vowed that the fiscus would not be stretched beyond its means.

“Infrastructure is our springboard for inclusive growth, but it cannot come at the expense of monetary discipline,” Minister Ncube told legislators.

“We will not tap into funds we do not have, because to do so would undo the progress we have fought hard to achieve in stabilising the ZiG (Zimbabwe Gold).”

The message leaves little doubt about the Government’s fiscal playbook for the remainder of 2025, which seeks to prioritise staying within budget parameters, even as new roads, dams and health care facilities are modernised and refurbished.

Cumulative infrastructure outlays from January through June stood at ZiG15,7 billion, nearly a quarter of the ZiG59,4 billion earmarked for the full year.

Of that half-year total, ZiG15 billion was drawn from the central Government’s coffers, while statutory funds and development partner grants accounted for ZiG610,9 million and ZiG56,8 million, respectively.

External loans, capped at ZiG1,8 billion for the year, remain untapped so far, reflecting a conscious decision to minimise fresh debt.

“Zimbabwe is proving that you can scale up critical public works without resorting to unbudgeted borrowing or money printing,” said Dr Prosper Chitambara, an economist.

“This approach cements market confidence; it tells both domestic and foreign investors that fiscal prudence and infrastructure expansion are not mutually exclusive.”

The bulk of the expenditure has gone towards rural and provincial road rehabilitation, small-scale dam renovations, expansion of primary healthcare facilities and electrification of strategic growth points.

Behind the scenes, ministries, departments and agencies received ZiG7,1 billion to upgrade vehicles, information and communication technology (ICT) systems and equipment, essential enablers of effective project execution.

Dr Chitambara said the Government’s financing mix, leaning heavily on statutory resources and development grants, further reduces inflation risks.

“The ministry has resisted the temptation to monetise deficits,” he said.

“That restraint is why inflation, while still elevated, has decelerated from triple-digit annual rates to more manageable levels.”

Dr Chitambara noted that the 15-month stretch of tight policy measures has already yielded measurable improvements.

“Foreign-currency liquidity in the interbank market is healthier, parallel-market premiums have narrowed and inflation expectations are better anchored,” he said.

“These gains create a virtuous circle, stable macro conditions attract investment, which powers growth, which in turn strengthens the fiscal position.”

Economist Ms Gladys Shumbambiri-Mutsopotsi, who has long warned against the perils of unchecked spending, applauded the Government’s stance.

“Between 2020 and 2024, overshooting budget targets fuelled inflationary pressures and exchange-rate volatility,” she said.

“Through sticking to fiscal ceilings now, Zimbabwe is rebuilding trust in public finances and safeguarding the value of the currency. That discipline is every bit as important as the roads and power lines we are building.”

Banker Mr Raymond Madziva, of Mvunganyi Capital, noted the improved liquidity conditions in the banking sector.

“Tight fiscal policy complements the central bank’s stringent monetary stance,” he observed.

“It has helped stabilise interest rates and deepen money market activity. Corporate treasurers are saying they now have greater confidence in deploying surplus cash to productive investments, rather than holding it under the mattress.”

Mr Madziva believes the guarded approach could pay dividends beyond interest rate stability.

“Lower sovereign risk ratings and predictable fiscal outcomes can unlock cheaper finance for private infrastructure developers,” he said.

“If Zimbabwe continues on this trajectory, we will see more public-private joint ventures, greater job creation and a faster convergence towards regional peers.”

Zimbabwe’s infrastructure deficit was in the past often financed through ad hoc borrowing or excess money creation, triggering currency depreciation and inflation surges.

The current strategy marks a deliberate departure.

“The lesson of the past is clear: infrastructure without discipline breeds instability,” said Ms Shumbambiri-Mutsopotsi.

“What we are seeing now is a programme anchored in fiscal reality and bolstered by private sector partnerships. That is the only sustainable way forward.”

Indeed, parastatals and development partners have been enlisted to co-finance projects, spread execution risk and bring technical expertise. Projects at 24 rural clinics, for example, are being delivered under a public-private collaboration that leverages grant funding for initial works and then taps local contractors for maintenance. While the half-year numbers are encouraging, ensuring full-year targets will demand continued vigilance.

Allocation for infrastructure for the second half of 2025 totals ZiG43,7 billion, drawing on a diverse funding basket —  ZiG27,8 billion from statutory resources, ZiG1,2 billion in donor support and the remainder from internally generated surpluses.

No new external borrowing has been slated beyond the ZiG1,8 billion already approved.

Minister Ncube stressed that this funding profile is designed to dovetail with macroeconomic goals.

“Every dollar or ZiG we spend is assessed for its impact on our currency reserves, inflation outlook and debt sustainability,” he explained.

“We are building for tomorrow without sacrificing the credibility we have earned.”

As Zimbabwe edges towards its Vision 2030 goal of upper middle-income status, the Government’s insistence on staying within budget, even amid an ambitious infrastructure drive, signals a maturing approach to public finance.

In an environment where funding constraints are real, the choice to live within means may prove more transformative than any single roadway or dam.

“We are not starved for vision; we are constrained by realism,” Minister Ncube quipped at the close of his mid-term budget presentation. Through marrying tight fiscal policy with targeted infrastructure spending, we are laying the foundation for sustained prosperity, brick by prudent brick.”

Zimbabwe’s Q1 GDP Surges 11.2 Percent

Sunday News  

August 3, 2025

Nelson Gahadza, 

Zimpapers Business Hub

ZIMBABWE’S gross domestic product (GDP), at current prices, rose by 11,2 percent in the first quarter of 2025, to ZiG335 billion (US$12,5 billion), from ZiG299 billion (US$11,2 billion) in the last quarter of 2024, driven by agriculture, electricity supply, information and communication and finance and insurance activities.

Quarterly GDP refers to the measurement of a country’s economic output, specifically the total value of goods and services produced, over three months.

It provides a more frequent snapshot of economic activity compared to annual GDP, allowing for a better understanding of short-term trends and fluctuations.

GDP at current prices, also known as nominal GDP, is the total value of goods and services produced within a country’s borders, measured at the prevailing market prices of that period.

According to the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat), the quarterly GDP figures provide an indication of changes in economic activities based on developments during the period under review.

The statistics tally with Finance, Economic Development and Investment Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube’s projections after he told legislators, while presenting the 2025 mid-term policy review on Thursday, that Zimbabwe’s economy is expected to achieve the targeted growth of 6 percent.

“This follows the post-drought recovery in agriculture, particularly in maize and tobacco production, increased investment in the mining sector targeting minerals such as gold, lithium and iron mining, as well as improved economic stability,” he said.

Despite global economic uncertainties that could negatively impact the country’s export receipts, the economy is expected to achieve the growth target for the year.

Presenting the GDP figures earlier this week, ZimStat manager national accounts Mr Grown Chirongwe said during the quarter under review, industries that registered growth included agriculture 18,8 percent, electricity supply 6,1 percent, information and communication 4,3 percent and finance and insurance activities 4,3 percent.

During the same quarter, mining and quarry declined by 21,6 percent, accommodation and food services fell by 24,1 percent, while water supply retreated by 12,3 percent.

Mr Chirongwe said the top five contributing industries to GDP in the first quarter of 2025 were manufacturing at 15 percent, followed by mining and quarrying at 12,4 percent, while agriculture recorded 11,7 percent.

“Wholesale and retail trade stood at 11,6 percent, while finance and insurance accounted for 11,2 percent,” he said.

According to the 2023 Economic Census conducted by ZimStat, the country’s GDP was rebased to ZiG168,5 trillion, equivalent to US$44,4 billion, up from the initial estimate of ZiG133,7 trillion (US$35,2 billion).

The adjustment reflects expanded coverage of economic activity, particularly in the informal sector and the inclusion of new business entities that have emerged since the last base year in 2019.

The Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce, one of Zimbabwe’s biggest and most influential business lobby groups, estimates the sector to constitute about 64,1 percent of the domestic economy.

The Government is actively encouraging the formalisation of its informal sector through various initiatives aimed at increasing tax compliance, providing access to formal financial services and offering legal protection.

These efforts include promoting electronic transactions, developing a Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Formalisation Strategy and streamlining the formalisation process.

Zimbabwe Fuel Sector Powers Ahead as Licenses and Imports Soar

Sunday News  

August 3, 2025

Nqobile Bhebhe 

Zimpapers Business Hub

ZIMBABWE’S petroleum sector has significantly expanded over the past 12 years, with operating licences more than tripling and fuel imports hitting record highs, a sign of rising investor confidence, stronger economic activity and deeper integration of energy supply into national development.

According to the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (Zera) 2024 annual report, the number of licensed operators across retail, procurement, wholesale, blending and production rose from 299 in 2012 to 1 083 in 2024, a growth of over 260 percent.

Retail, the largest category, saw the most significant jump from 229 licences in 2012 to 996 in 2024 with a notable surge in 2021, when the number rose from 733 to 882 despite global economic headwinds.

Procurement licences, allowing private players to import fuel, peaked at 130 in 2019 before settling at 59 in 2024, indicating sustained private-sector involvement in fuel supply.

Wholesale growth was steady but limited, while blending licences averaged 11 annually in support of the country’s ethanol blending policy.

Production licences remained small in number but are expected to grow as local manufacturing capacity develops.

Zera attributed the expansion to a transparent and enabling regulatory framework that has decentralised supply chains, attracted private investment and expanded infrastructure into growth points and rural areas.

“With over 1 000 active licences across categories by 2024, Zimbabwe’s petroleum sector is positioning itself as a key enabler of industrial growth, trade logistics and transport connectivity in line with Vision 2030,” said economist Ms Alice Chikonzi.

“The consistent increase in the number of retail licences issued is a sign of investor confidence and increased accessibility of petroleum products to consumers across the country.

“Fuel retailing is becoming a viable enterprise, especially as Government policies have allowed more players into the sector.”

The sector’s growth is mirrored in fuel import data. Diesel imports, which are often seen as an economic activity barometer, climbed from 736 million litres in 2020 to 1,1 billion litres in  2024.

Petrol closed 2024 at 568 million litres, while Jet A1 aviation fuel imports rose more than fourfold from 21,8 million litres to 95,1 million litres, reflecting a rebound in tourism and aviation.

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) also saw strong growth, up 17,14 percent from 66,1 million kg in 2020 to 77,4 million kg in 2024, driven by households switching from paraffin and firewood to cleaner energy. LPG retail licences peaked in 2021 at 356, with over 1 300 licences issued between 2015 and 2022.

However, Zera warned of continued smuggling of 48kg LPG cylinders, some linked to fire incidents. In 2024, 206 smuggled cylinders were confiscated and destroyed. The regulator is engaging South African suppliers to curb the problem.

“Zera is engaging South African owners of smuggled cylinders, urging them to improve control of the circulation of their cylinders so that they are not smuggled out and end up in the hands of illegal LPG dealers,” the authority said.

With imports rising, licensing expanding, and infrastructure spreading nationwide, analysts say the petroleum sector is poised to remain a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s industrialisation and economic transformation.

Zimbabwe Government’s Fiscal Restraint Ushers Durable Stability

Online Reporter 

Sunday News  

August 3, 2025

THE Government has sent a clear signal of its resolve to maintain a tight fiscal stance even as it accelerates infrastructure investments, underscoring its commitment to bolstering long-term growth without jeopardising the gains registered over the past 15 months.

In his Mid-Term Budget Review delivered to Parliament on Thursday, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube reported that infrastructure spending reached ZiG15,7 billion in the first-half of 2025, financed from existing resources, and vowed that the fiscus would not be stretched beyond its means.

“Infrastructure is our springboard for inclusive growth, but it cannot come at the expense of monetary discipline,” Minister Ncube told legislators.

“We will not tap into funds we do not have, because to do so would undo the progress we have fought hard to achieve in stabilising the ZiG.”

The message leaves little doubt about the Government’s fiscal playbook for the remainder of 2025, which seeks to prioritise staying within budget parameters, even as new roads, dams and health care facilities are modernised and refurbished.

Cumulative infrastructure outlays from January through June stood at ZiG15,7 billion, nearly a quarter of the ZiG59,4 billion earmarked for the full year.

Of that half-year total, ZiG15 billion was drawn from the Central Government’s coffers, while statutory funds and development partner grants accounted for ZiG610,9 million and ZiG56,8 million, respectively.

External loans, capped at ZiG1,8 billion for the year, remain untapped so far, reflecting a conscious decision to minimise fresh debt.

“Zimbabwe is proving that you can scale up critical public works without resorting to unbudgeted borrowing or money printing,” said Dr Prosper Chitambara, an economist.

“This approach cements market confidence; it tells both domestic and foreign investors that fiscal prudence and infrastructure expansion are not mutually exclusive.”

The bulk of the expenditure has gone toward rural and provincial road rehabilitation, small-scale dam renovations, expansion of primary healthcare facilities and electrification of strategic growth points.

Behind the scenes, ministries, departments and agencies received ZiG7,1 billion to upgrade vehicles, ICT systems and equipment, essential enablers of effective project execution.

Economist Gladys Shumbambiri-Mutsopotsi, who has long warned against the perils of unchecked spending, applauded the Government’s stance.

“Between 2020 and 2024, overshooting budget targets fuelled inflationary pressures and exchange-rate volatility,” she said.

“Through sticking to fiscal ceilings now, Zimbabwe is rebuilding trust in public finances and safeguarding the value of the currency. That discipline is every bit as important as the roads and power lines we are building.”

Banker Mr Raymond Madziva of Mvunganyi Capital echoed the sentiment, noting improved liquidity conditions in the banking sector.

“Tight fiscal policy complements the central bank’s stringent monetary stance,” Mr Madziva observed.

“It has helped stabilise interest rates and deepen money-market activity. Corporate treasurers are saying they now have greater confidence in deploying surplus cash into productive investments, rather than holding it under the mattress.”

Dr Chitambara added that the Government’s financing mix, leaning heavily on statutory resources and development grants, further reduces inflation risks.

“The ministry has resisted the temptation to monetise deficits,” he said. “That restraint is why inflation, while still elevated, has decelerated from triple-digit annual rates to more manageable levels.”

Zimbabwe’s infrastructure deficit was decades in the making, leaving highways potholed, clinics under-supplied and rural communities in the dark. In the past, efforts to plug this gap were often financed through ad hoc borrowing or excess money creation, triggering painful currency depreciation and inflation surges.

The current strategy marks a deliberate departure.

“The lesson of the past is clear: infrastructure without discipline breeds instability,” said Ms Shumbambiri-Mutsopotsi.

“What we are seeing now is a programme anchored on fiscal reality and bolstered by private-sector partnerships. That is the only sustainable way forward.”

Indeed, parastatals and development partners have been enlisted to co-finance projects, spread execution risk and bring technical expertise.

Projects at 24 rural clinics, for example, are being delivered under a public-private collaboration that leverages grant funding for initial works and then taps local contractors for maintenance.

While the half-year numbers are encouraging, ensuring full-year targets will demand continued vigilance. Infrastructure allocation for the second half of 2025 totals ZiG43,7 billion, drawing on a diverse funding basket, ZiG27,8 billion from statutory resources, ZiG1,2 billion in donor support, and the remainder from internally generated surpluses. No new external borrowing has been slated beyond the ZiG1,8 billion already approved.

Minister Ncube stressed that this funding profile is designed to dovetail with macroeconomic goals.

“Every dollar or ZiG we spend is assessed for its impact on our currency reserves, inflation outlook and debt sustainability,” he explained.

“We are building for tomorrow without sacrificing the credibility we have earned.”

Mr Madziva believes the guarded approach could pay dividends beyond interest-rate stability.

“Lower sovereign risk ratings and predictable fiscal outcomes can unlock cheaper finance for private infrastructure developers,” he said.

“If Zimbabwe continues on this trajectory, we will see more public-private joint ventures, greater job creation and a faster convergence toward regional peers.”

Dr Chitambara noted the 15-month stretch of tight policy measures has already yielded measurable improvements.

“Foreign-currency liquidity in the interbank market is healthier, parallel-market premiums have narrowed and inflation expectations are better anchored,” he said.

“These gains create a virtuous circle, stable macro conditions attract investment, which powers growth, which in turn strengthens the fiscal position.”

As Zimbabwe edges towards its Vision 2030 goal of upper-middle-income status, the Government’s insistence on staying within budget, even amid an ambitious infrastructure drive, signals a maturing approach to public finance.

In an environment where funding constraints are real, the choice to live within means may prove more transformative than any single roadway or dam.

“We are not starved for vision, we are constrained by realism,” Minister Ncube quipped at the close of his mid-term budget presentation.

“Through marrying tight fiscal policy with targeted infrastructure spending, we are laying the foundation for sustained prosperity, brick by prudent brick.”

Market-led Farming: Producing for Demand, Not Hope

Zimbabwe Sunday Mail  

August 3, 2025

Zimbabwe’s agriculture sector holds enormous potential to transform the livelihoods of thousands of farmers and contribute significantly to national economic prosperity.

However, this potential can only be fully realised by adopting a strategic market-led farming approach.

Market-led farming refers to the production of agricultural goods guided explicitly by market demands, rather than tradition, assumptions or mere hope.

It emphasises understanding consumer needs, industry requirements and broader market trends to inform agricultural decisions.

Why is market-led farming important?

Firstly, market-led farming significantly reduces agricultural risks.

Farmers who adopt this approach cultivate crops and rear livestock that have guaranteed or high potential marketability. When producers clearly understand what the market demands, they are less likely to face situations where their produce is unsold or sold at a loss.

This informed approach ensures effective planning, reducing the vulnerability of farmers to unpredictable market fluctuations.

Secondly, this farming practice enhances profitability. By focusing on what the market demands, farmers can often secure better and more stable prices.

They can align their production cycles with market cycles, thus achieving quicker sales turnover and minimising post-harvest losses.

For instance, if there is a growing demand for horticultural products like berries or exotic vegetables, farmers who shift towards these high-value crops can significantly enhance their profitability compared to sticking to traditional staples.

Thirdly, market-led agriculture promotes sustainability. By aligning production with actual demand, farmers avoid wasteful use of critical resources such as water, fertilisers, seeds and labour.

This prudent resource use contributes positively towards environmental sustainability and reduces production costs, further bolstering the long-term economic viability of farming operations.

Additionally, market-led farming fosters innovation and competitiveness within the agriculture sector.

It encourages farmers to stay updated with new agricultural technologies, modern farming methods and innovative practices.

This ensures the agriculture sector remains dynamic, competitive and responsive to evolving market conditions, both locally and globally.

Lastly, adopting market-led farming practices promotes food security by stabilising supply chains.

A clear understanding of market dynamics enables farmers to produce crops and livestock consistently in line with consumer and industry demands, ensuring regular availability of critical food items.

Here are the steps to practising market-led farming:

Engage regularly with market information

Farmers need to remain consistently updated with accurate and reliable market information.

Sources such as the Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA), local commodity exchange platforms, agricultural publications and extension service providers offer valuable insights into market dynamics, price fluctuations and consumer preferences.

Conduct regular market surveys

Regularly conducting or participating in market surveys allows farmers to stay informed about the changing preferences and demands of consumers and agro-industries.

Market surveys can reveal emerging trends, help predict future market behavior, and identify unmet market needs, providing a strategic advantage.

Networking and collaboration

Establishing strong networks with buyers, agro-dealers, extension officers and fellow farmers can provide critical insights into the evolving agricultural landscape.

Collaboration can facilitate the exchange of market intelligence, enable collective bargaining and provide avenues for joint marketing efforts and resource pooling.

Diversification based on market signals

Farmers should consider diversifying their agricultural activities by cautiously introducing new products aligned with clear market demand.

Diversification helps mitigate risk, provides multiple streams of income and allows flexibility to pivot towards more profitable ventures based on market signals.

Embrace contract farming

Engaging in contract farming agreements is an excellent way to guarantee a market. Farmers commit to producing specific agricultural products for a predetermined market, often benefitting from technical advice, quality inputs and price assurances.

Contract farming arrangements significantly reduce market-related uncertainties.

Adopt modern technology and data-driven agriculture

Technology offers powerful tools for modern farmers to make data-driven decisions. Digital platforms and mobile applications provide timely market updates, precise weather forecasts, price trends and demand analysis.

This access to real-time information enables farmers to make informed, strategic decisions that enhance productivity and profitability.

Capacity building and training

Farmers must continuously build their capacity through training and education in modern agricultural practices, market dynamics and financial literacy.

AMA and other agricultural development institutions frequently offer training sessions, workshops and field days to help farmers adopt and integrate market-led practices effectively.

Invest in value addition

Adding value to agricultural products through processes such as packaging, branding and processing can significantly increase market appeal and profitability.

Value addition can open new market segments, attract premium pricing and reduce the vulnerability of farmers to price fluctuations associated with raw products.

Zimbabwe’s agriculture sector stands at a pivotal juncture.

Transitioning towards market-led farming is no longer just an advantageous strategy; it is an essential step towards achieving agricultural growth, rural prosperity and national economic development.

Farmers who adapt and respond to market demands will not only sustain their livelihoods but will also lay the foundation for a resilient, profitable and competitive agriculture sector.

Tina Nleya is AMA’s marketing and public relations manager. She can be contacted on email: tnleya@ama.co.zw. Word From The Market is a column produced by AMA to promote market-driven production.

A Trophy Hunter Killed a Lion in Zimbabwe that Was Part of a Research Project, Sparking Anger

By Farai Mutsaka

2:37 PM EDT, July 31, 2025

HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) — The killing of a collared lion involved in a research project in Zimbabwe by a trophy hunter has been condemned by wildlife groups, echoing the infamous case of a lion called Cecil whose death at the hands of an American tourist in the same country a decade ago was met with international outrage.

The latest lion, known as Blondie, was part of an Oxford University study and wore a research collar sponsored by Africa Geographic, a safari company. Africa Geographic said Blondie was killed by a hunter in June close to the country’s flagship Hwange National Park after being lured out of a protected area and into a nearby hunting zone with the use of bait.

After Blondie’s killing became a new rallying cry for those opposed to hunting, a spokesperson for Zimbabwe’s National Parks told The Associated Press on Thursday that the hunt was legal and the hunter had the necessary permits. Zimbabwe allows up to 100 lions to be hunted a year. Trophy hunters, who are usually foreign tourists, pay tens of thousands of dollars to kill a lion and take the head or skin as a trophy.

Africa Geographic CEO Simon Espley said Blondie’s killing made “a mockery of the ethics” trophy hunters claim to prescribe to because he wore a clearly visible research collar and was a breeding male in his prime. Hunters say they only target ageing, non-breeding lions.

“That Blondie’s prominent collar did not prevent him from being offered to a hunting client confirms the stark reality that no lion is safe from trophy hunting guns,” Espley said.

Hunting lions is fiercely divisive, even among conservationists. Some say if it is well managed it raises money that can be put back into conservation. Others want killing wildlife for sport to be banned outright.

Some countries in Africa like Kenya have commercial hunting bans, others like Zimbabwe and South Africa allow it. Botswana lifted a ban on hunting six years ago.

Tinashe Farawo, the spokesperson for the Zimbabwe parks agency, said money from hunting is crucial to support the southern African nation’s underfunded conservation efforts. He defended the hunt and said they often happen at night, meaning the collar on Blondie may not have been visible.

He said he had no information on Blondie being lured out of the park with bait — which is usually a dead animal — but there “is nothing unethical or illegal about that for anyone who knows how lions are hunted. This is how people hunt.”

“Our rangers were present. All paperwork was in order. Collars are for research purposes, but they don’t make the animal immune to hunting,” Farawo said. He declined to name the hunter.

Cecil’s killing in 2015 unleashed furious anger against Walter Palmer, a Minnesota dentist and trophy hunter who lured the lion out of the same national park in Zimbabwe and shot him with a bow before tracking him for hours and finally killing him. Cecil, whose head and skin were cut off and taken for trophies, was also involved in a research project by Oxford University.

Zimbabwe authorities initially said they would seek to extradite Palmer over the hunt, although that didn’t happen, while a hunting guide who helped him was arrested, only for charges to be dropped.

Zimbabwe’s national parks agency says the country makes about $20 million a year from trophy hunting, with a single hunter spending an average of $100,000 per hunt — which includes accommodation and hiring vehicles and local trackers.

Zimbabwe is home to approximately 1,500 wild lions, with around one-third of them living in the vast Hwange National Park. Across Africa, the wild lion population is estimated at around 20,000. However, their numbers are decreasing due to habitat loss and human conflict. Lions, one of Africa’s most iconic species, are currently listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.