The Kariba Dam Rehabilitation Project's Plunge Pool reshaping sub-project in Zimbabwe has been completed, with about 750,000 tonnes of rock excavated to increase the dam's lifespan by 60 years and enhance power generation for Zimbabwe and Zambia. The project, now 93% complete, has also involved strengthening the geological fault zone downstream of the dam. The Zimbabwe River Authority has overseen the project without any environmental, health, or safety violations or fatalities.

Karoi Town Council is actively seeking to take control of the town's water supply from the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (Zinwa), with the belief that it is better positioned to provide water services to its residents. The Town Clerk, Mr Wellington Mutikani, expressed the council's intention to manage the water reticulation system more efficiently. Residents have complained about Zinwa's service, citing frequent water shortages and high bills. The council has been dealing with these complaints, and the chairperson, Mr Richard Ziki, hopes the takeover will happen this year, although the process is slow and currently at the ministerial level. Zinwa has acknowledged issues with defaulters but was not available for further comment.

Former workers of the now-defunct Mhangura Copper Mines in Zimbabwe are expressing dissatisfaction with their pension payouts following the mine's closure in 1999. They claim to have received only their contributions to the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) pension fund, not the employer's share as mandated by labor laws. Spokesperson Mr. Grayson Banda highlighted the case of a long-serving member who received a mere $900. Discrepancies in pension amounts have also been reported, with some ex-workers receiving between $2,000 and $3,000, while others got as low as $23. Concerns were raised about the Mining Industry Pension Fund (MIPF), with allegations of employer tampering. The difficulty in pursuing claims is exacerbated by lost documentation and the death of some former workers.

Former workers of the now-defunct Mhangura Copper Mines in Zimbabwe are expressing dissatisfaction with their pension payouts following the mine's closure in 1999. They claim to have received only their contributions to the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) pension fund, not the employer's share as mandated by labor laws. Spokesperson Mr. Grayson Banda highlighted the case of a long-serving member who received a mere $900. Discrepancies in pension amounts have also been reported, with some ex-workers receiving between $2,000 and $3,000, while others got as low as $23. Concerns were raised about the Mining Industry Pension Fund (MIPF), with allegations of employer tampering. The difficulty in pursuing claims is exacerbated by lost documentation and the death of some former workers.

Former workers of the now-defunct Mhangura Copper Mines in Zimbabwe are expressing dissatisfaction with their pension payouts following the mine's closure in 1999. They claim to have received only their contributions to the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) pension fund, not the employer's share as mandated by labor laws. Spokesperson Mr. Grayson Banda highlighted the case of a long-serving member who received a mere $900. Discrepancies in pension amounts have also been reported, with some ex-workers receiving between $2,000 and $3,000, while others got as low as $23. Concerns were raised about the Mining Industry Pension Fund (MIPF), with allegations of employer tampering. The difficulty in pursuing claims is exacerbated by lost documentation and the death of some former workers.

The article discusses the reluctance of tobacco farmers in regions such as Mhangura and Karoi to adopt alternative curing fuels like coal, due to traditional practices and concerns over potential hazards. Despite the environmental impact of deforestation, farmers find firewood to be more accessible and cost-effective. Some believe that replanting trees can mitigate the effects of using wood. The cost of environmentally friendly fuels is also a deterrent, as tobacco companies charge more for them, impacting farmers' profits. Boka Auction Floors' CEO, Mrs Rudo Boka-Mutambanengwe, has encouraged farmers to consider alternative curing methods.

Tobacco farmers in Mhangura and Karoi, Mashonaland West, are concerned about the impact of copper dust from local slime dumpsites on their crops. A study from 2015 supports their worries, indicating that excessive copper can hinder plant growth and reduce crop quality. Farmers have observed issues such as stunted growth and dark spots on tobacco leaves, which are attributed to high copper levels by field officers and buyers. Environmental health technicians confirm that copper toxicity affects not only tobacco but also other crops like maize and soybeans. The proximity of the farming areas to the dumpsites and the wind patterns exacerbate the problem. The Mhangura Copper Mines, which closed in 1999, is also a concern for livestock due to potential water contamination. There is a call for afforestation efforts to mitigate the environmental impact.

A six-member gang known for terrorizing Chinhoyi and surrounding areas with machetes has been arrested by the police. The gang, due in court, faces charges of robbery, rape, and unlawful entry. Members include Dennis China, Lloyd Makiwa, Maxwell Aaron Sikanyika Adams (Makas), Maxwell Karoterote, Prince Dube, and Tinashe, with links to a Kadoma robbery and an attempted break-in at Portlet Business Centre.

The Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA) has revived the Gowe Irrigation Scheme in Sanyati, Zimbabwe, aiming to enhance food security and climate change resilience. The scheme, which had been idle, is part of a broader effort to rehabilitate and develop 350,000 hectares of land by 2025. The initiative is expected to contribute to Vision 2030, with a focus on running the scheme as a proper business. Local stakeholders, including farmers and legislators, have expressed optimism about the scheme's potential to sustain families, create employment, and boost the local economy.

Load shedding by the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) is threatening the winter wheat yield, despite government assurances of uninterrupted power supply. Farmers, including Penikat Magwada, are concerned about the impact on their crops, with some considering alternative uses for their land. The country has exceeded its winter wheat target, largely funded by the National Enhanced Agriculture Production Scheme, Pfumvudza, and the private sector. The government is also addressing the quelea bird threat through dedicated funding for spraying roosting areas.

Zimbabwe has expanded its Covid-19 vaccination program to include children from three years old, as announced by Vice President and Health and Child Care Minister Dr. Constantino Chiwenga. The move aims to minimize the spread of the virus and boost immune systems. Chiwenga also cautioned citizens about Monkey Pox, which has seen cases in 51 countries, including the United States and South Africa. He emphasized the importance of vaccination and maintaining precautions against both diseases.

In Makonde District, illegal grain buyers are exploiting farmers by purchasing their maize and soya beans at prices significantly lower than the official rates. Due to the limited use of electronic payments in rural areas, farmers are tempted to accept cash offers from middlemen, even though these are below the gazetted prices. The Grain Marketing Board (GMB) pays farmers through non-cash methods, which forces them to either purchase cash on the black market or endure long queues for insufficient funds. The Zimbabwe Farmers Union and the Agricultural Marketing Authority have warned that unlicensed grain buyers could face legal consequences, including arrest and prosecution, for not adhering to regulated price structures.

The article reports on a group of at least 20 elderly individuals in Mhangura who have enrolled in non-formal education at Mhangura Primary School, with the aim of learning to read and write. The government initiative has been praised by the participants, including a 53-year-old woman who is now able to read and write and is preparing for her Grade 7 examinations. The elderly students, who also have to care for their families, face financial challenges in paying for school fees and uniforms. They are calling for financial assistance to help them complete their education. Some also require birth certificates to take national exams. The teacher from Mhangura Mine Primary School mentioned that there are 14 Grade 1 and seven Grade 3 non-formal pupils, all of whom are elderly.

Mhangura, a region in Zimbabwe, is on the brink of a health crisis due to the breakdown of communal toilets in the high density suburbs of Chebanga and Damba. Residents are concerned as most toilets are non-functional and the remaining ones are insufficient for the population. The district environmental health technician, Mr Edwin Mumiriki, warned of potential water-borne diseases. Martha Kasiyane, a 70-year-old resident, risks her health by cleaning toilets without protective gear for a small fee. The community has appealed to their MP, Dr Douglas Mombeshora, for intervention. The Makonde Rural District Council denied responsibility, pointing to the Zimbabwe National Water Authority, which was unreachable for comment.

The article discusses the resurgence of cotton farming in Zimbabwe, driven by the Presidential Cotton Input Support Scheme. This initiative, part of the ZimAsset blueprint, aims to revitalize the cotton industry, which had suffered due to low world prices, leading to the closure of ginneries and textile industries. The scheme, which provides free farming inputs to growers, is expected to create thousands of jobs and has been welcomed by the Zimbabwe Cotton Growers and Marketers Association. The Cotton Company of Zimbabwe (Cottco) anticipates a significant increase in cotton production, from 60,000 tonnes to over 250,000 tonnes, which will lead to more employment opportunities in the sector. The expansion of input distribution points is also contributing to job creation in the industry.

Cde Dexter Nduna, the legislator for Chegutu, emphasized the importance of respecting and providing opportunities for disabled individuals during the Municipality of Chegutu Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture Festival. He highlighted the potential of disabled people in sports and arts and warned against stereotypical demotivation. Nduna also promoted the role of sports, arts, and culture in economic development and community integration, while condemning corruption among sporting officials. The festival aimed to promote social cohesion, wellness, peace, and business integration. An official from the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture mentioned the Government's Community Sport and Recreation Club System, which is fostering growth in local sports and recreation. The Municipality of Kariba is set to host a similar festival at Nyamhunga Stadium on November 4.