216 Whisky calls for higher powers to succeed

Rising hip-hop artist Ismael Whisky, known as 216 Whisky, discusses his latest project 'Sango', a hip-hop afrofusion track featuring Maje Afrika. The song explores themes of spirituality and the need for a higher power to overcome evil spirits, using creative imagery to convey its message. Whisky expresses hope for the song's success on digital platforms, following previous collaborations with artists like Mr Attention, Wedande, and Selmor Mtukudzi.

I wear my culture project uplifts local culture

The 'I wear my culture' project, launched to uplift local culture in Zimbabwe, showcases fashion art pieces representing 10 tribes and their languages. Project leader Gilmore Khumalo emphasizes the importance of national identity over individual tribes. Bulawayo City Council spokesperson Nesisa Mpofu highlights Bulawayo's potential as an international fashion hub. The British Council, represented by Ronald Moyo, supports the project for its cultural significance and engagement with youth. The initiative aims to unite creatives and incorporate culture into fashion, potentially generating income.

Forvis Mazars launches in Zimbabwe

Forvis Mazars, a global financial services network, is set to launch its operations in Zimbabwe, filling the gap left by Deloitte's exit. The merger of Forvis Mazars LLP and Forvis Mazars Group SC brings international expertise to Zimbabwe, signaling positive economic prospects. Managing partner Lovemore Kamuzangaza emphasizes the firm's commitment to leveraging global resources to benefit local enterprises, highlighting Zimbabwe's significant potential and bright future.

AMA pursues Rwanda market

Zimbabwe is working to expand its agricultural exports to Rwanda following a successful business forum that showcased its produce, including macadamia nuts, peas, and blueberries. The Agricultural Marketing Authority reported strong interest from Rwandan buyers, and efforts are underway to ensure high-quality exports reach Kigali. The forum, organized by ZimTrade and the Rwanda Development Board, aimed to enhance trade cooperation between the two nations. Despite challenges like inconsistent policies and high costs, Zimbabwe's horticultural sector is recovering, with increased investment and support from the European Union and the European Investment Bank. The sector targets US$1 billion in exports by 2030.

Ideal Sports donates kit to Harare Poly volleyball team

Ideal Sports has donated two playing kits to the Harare Polytechnic volleyball team, enhancing their preparation for the upcoming Zimbabwe Tertiary Institutions Sports Union games. Ideal Sports' Managing Director, Ideal Svovanepasi, emphasized the company's commitment to supporting sports development through corporate social responsibility. The donation was well-received by the team, with player Tanaka Hwara expressing gratitude and motivation to represent the brand with pride.

Bafana coach targets three points against Warriors

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos aims for a win against Zimbabwe's Warriors in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Bloemfontein, South Africa. The team first faces Nigeria away, with Broos targeting at least a draw there and a win against Zimbabwe. Players Nkosinathi Sibisi and Iqraam Rayners emphasize the need for a strong mentality to achieve positive results. The Warriors will play Lesotho in Johannesburg before facing Bafana Bafana.

Charity begins at home...

The Zimbabwe Stock Exchange (ZSE) is experiencing a significant decline in daily trades due to restrictive regulations, including a 4% withholding tax on securities sold within 270 days. These measures have made the ZSE less attractive to investors, leading to decreased liquidity and valuation challenges. In contrast, the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange (VFEX) offers lower trading costs and incentives, drawing issuers away from the ZSE. The newly established Capital Markets Association faces the challenge of revitalizing the ZSE by making it more appealing to both local and foreign investors.

CBZ mining loan book soars

CBZ Holdings has significantly increased its mining sector loan book to 18%, reflecting its commitment to supporting Zimbabwe's economic growth. Executive director Phibeon Mutibura emphasized the bank's role in providing financial solutions tailored to the mining industry, including value chain and local enterprise development. The bank's initiatives aim to foster financial inclusion, empower SMEs, and enhance local job creation, ultimately contributing to import substitution and improved community livelihoods.

Climate change crisis: Zim farmers face uncertain future

Zimbabwean farmers face severe challenges due to an El Niño-induced drought, leading to widespread crop failure and food insecurity. President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared the drought a national disaster, with 9 million people requiring food aid. Despite efforts to use drought-tolerant crops, farmers like Chipo Mashindi have seen their livelihoods decimated. The Mwenezi Development Training Centre, in collaboration with the World Food Programme and USAID, provided food assistance to 230,000 people, but the need remains dire as the lean season continues. The situation threatens not only food security but also education and healthcare access for many Zimbabweans.

Gokwe residents' water woes to end soon

The Farm Community Trust of Zimbabwe (FCTZ) has committed to addressing the water scarcity issues in Gokwe North and South by rehabilitating 85 water points in the area. This initiative is particularly timely due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as access to water is critical for maintaining hygiene and preventing the virus's spread. FCTZ's programme manager, Barnabas John Muhoma, reported that 55 water sources have already been repaired, and the project also includes improving water and sanitation in local schools. Additionally, FCTZ's executive director, Godfrey Magaramombe, mentioned that the borehole-drilling project would provide safe water to an estimated 39,700 people. The organization has also supported schools with COVID-19 protective equipment and provided vulnerable households with materials to combat the pandemic.