The 2023 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season concluded with Ngezi Platinum Stars, a small team from Mhondoro-Ngezi, winning the title, marking a shift in football power from major cities Harare and Bulawayo to smaller towns. Financial backing was not the primary factor; instead, good organization and unity within the Ngezi team were key. Traditional giants like Dynamos and Highlanders faltered due to poor coaching decisions and instability. The article highlights the challenges and prospects for various teams in the upcoming 2024 season, emphasizing the need for proper organization and stability to reclaim dominance in Zimbabwean football.

Dave Houghton, head coach of Zimbabwe Cricket, addressed the national team's failure to qualify for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, attributing the defeats to players' inability to handle pressure. He emphasized the need for a stronger development program and franchise cricket that simulates high-pressure situations to better prepare players. Houghton plans to discuss these issues and potential solutions with Zimbabwe Cricket in the coming weeks.

Nicholas Kadzungura, a renowned sculptor, has transformed rocks into meaningful art pieces over his 26-year career. Born in Centenary, Zimbabwe, Kadzungura's journey into full-time sculpting began after losing his job at the University of Zimbabwe. Encouraged by first-generation artist Damian Manuhwa, Kadzungura found success at Chapungu Sculpture Park and through international exhibitions. His work has taken him to various countries, allowing him to experience diverse cultures and build a better life for his family. Kadzungura's legacy continues through his son Allan, who is also interested in carving.

African climate change activists are leveraging art forms like poetry, music, theatre, and graffiti to advocate for climate action at COP28 in Dubai. Phelister Amondi Awuor and Jesse David from Kenya are among those using their artistic talents to communicate the urgency of climate change to both grassroots communities and world leaders. Their demands include ending fossil fuel use, increasing renewable energy, and securing adaptation funding. The article underscores the power of art as a tool for environmental advocacy and cultural expression.

Daramombe High School from Zimbabwe triumphed over competitors from Botswana and Swaziland in the National School Quiz Championships held in Botswana, securing a US$45,000 scholarship to India. The event marked the return of the NSQC after a pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The school's quiz team, led by patron Ndaizivei Shasha and headmaster Amos Takatya, credited their junior policy approach and emphasis on moral values for their success. The NSQC founder, Ian Venganai, announced that the tournament will be televised and promised more academic events in 2024.

Baltemar Brito's contract as coach of Zimbabwe's national soccer team, the Warriors, is set to expire at the end of December, coinciding with the end of his contract with the Highlanders. Zifa, Zimbabwe's football governing body, must decide whether to extend Brito and fitness coach Antonio Torres's contracts and reapply for their work permits. Brito has expressed interest in continuing with the team, but there is a risk he could be persuaded elsewhere if Zifa delays. Brito's tenure included a friendly match against Botswana and World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Nigeria. His association with Highlanders was marked by an unbeaten streak and interest from Zifa due to the team's performance.

FBC Holdings and its subsidiary FBC Bank won multiple awards at the Chartered Governance and Accountancy Institute in Zimbabwe's annual Excellence in Corporate Governance Awards. FBC Holdings was recognized for the Overall Best Corporate Governance Practices and Stakeholder Practices and Sustainability Reporting, while FBC Bank received awards for Best Risk Management and Overall Banking Institution. Other notable winners included CBZ Holdings, Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, Old Mutual, and the Deposit Protection Corporation. The awards, which have been held since 2013, aim to promote good corporate governance practices in Zimbabwe.

Following Zimbabwe's poor performance at the ICC T-20 World Cup qualifier in Namibia, four players have been dropped from the national team. Tendai Chatara, Wellington Masakadza, Innocent Kaia, and Nick Welch were excluded from the squad for the upcoming home series against Ireland. Two uncapped players, Brian Bennett and Trevor Gwandu, have been named in the 15-man squad. Sikandar Raza will lead the team, which includes several players from the Namibian campaign. The team is currently practicing at Harare Sports Club under head coach Dave Houghton.

The Zimbabwe national netball team, known as the Gems, will compete against Botswana for third place in the Africa Netball Championships after missing the finals despite a victory over Eswatini. The Gems required a win with a margin of at least 20 goals but started slowly, which cost them a spot in the semis. Zambia and Namibia will play in the final, while Eswatini and Kenya vie for fifth place. The Gems made several positional changes during their match against Eswatini, with Kelly Myambo making her debut and contributing to the team's performance.

Netherlands ambassador to Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi, Margret Verwijk, announced the continuation of funding for the READY programme, aimed at ending Aids, during a side meeting at the ICASA conference in Harare. Verwijk emphasized the importance of bodily autonomy and informed sexual and reproductive decision-making for community wellbeing. She highlighted the progress made in reducing HIV infections and Aids-related deaths in Southern Africa since 2010, while acknowledging new public health challenges such as climate change, migration, and inequality. The READY Summit united diverse groups to share experiences and work towards ending Aids, addressing inequalities that fuel the epidemic. The Netherlands supports the fight against HIV through the Dutch Regional HIV/Aids and Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights programme, contributing around EUR10 million annually, active in 10 countries.

Tino Benza, a 22-year-old forward for Herentals, has won the Fans Choice Player of the Year award for the second time and aims to be among the top three finalists for the Soccer Star of the Year award next season. He has been a key player for Herentals, contributing six goals and 11 assists, and was called into the Warriors squad by coach Baltemar Brito. Benza credits training, self-motivation, and hard work for his success.

Dynamos won the Chibuku Super Cup, defeating Ngezi Platinum Stars 2-0, marking their first major domestic trophy since 2014 and their first Chibuku Super Cup since its return that same year. The victory coincided with Dynamos' 60th anniversary. Teenage star Elton Chikona and Nigerian striker Emmanuel Paga scored the goals. Ngezi Platinum's coach Takesure Chiragwi acknowledged defensive mistakes and congratulated Dynamos. The match was held at Baobab Stadium with a near-full capacity crowd.

Qadr Amini, the Ngezi Platinum Stars captain, was named Soccer Star of the Year in Harare, overcoming a past heart complication and the prospect of early retirement. Amini, who scored seven goals this season, led his team to a maiden league title and is now considering extending his career due to the opportunity to play in the CAF Champions League. Other awardees included Walter Musona, Donald Mudadi, Obriel Chirinda, Tino Benza, Ariel Sibanda, and Elton Chikona for various achievements in Zimbabwean soccer.

Mark Anthony Vassilatos, a renowned bodybuilder from Harare Fitness Gym, has retired after winning the Mr. Zim title for the second consecutive time at the Zim Nationals event in Harare. He joins other Zimbabwean bodybuilders with two Mr. Zim titles, such as Vaughan Carl and Walter Munyikwa. Vassilatos won the Senior Men Bodybuilding over 85kg category and the overall senior men bodybuilding lineup. He expressed gratitude to his main sponsor, Mukuba Holdings, and other supporters like Ross Tyres and Spray Tech. The article also mentions other competitors like Noah Dzvokora, Irvine Dekeya, Alex Mangwiro, Nigel Maphosa, and James Tashera.

Noble Stylz, an award-winning rapper and promoter, has launched the Bars to Bars National Rap League, a continuation of the For The Culture initiative. The league aims to promote new artists and brands, with Masofa Panze, the parent brand, having won the best hip hop promoter at the Zim Hip Hop awards. The inaugural rap battle edition was held at Moto Republik in the Dodger Dome, named in honor of the late hip hop enthusiast Donald Dodger Marinde. The league celebrates communities that produce hip hop talent and will feature different divisions, from local neighborhoods to intercity battles.

Finance and Economic Development Minister Mthuli Ncube's 2024 budget for Zimbabwe is criticized for being fundamentally flawed and an attack on the poor. The budget, which significantly increases spending, introduces new taxes and raises existing ones, disproportionately affecting ordinary Zimbabweans and those in informal businesses. Critics argue that the budget is not pro-poor and will exacerbate economic inequality. Legislators are urged to reject the budget's unrealistic measures to protect the rights of the impoverished population.

The article criticizes the behavior of sports figures like Mikel Arteta, Scott McTominay, and Tyson Fury for their public outbursts and derogatory comments towards officials and opponents, labeling such actions as a disgrace. It questions the impact of these actions on children and society, contrasting the aggressive behavior with the charitable message of the song 'We are the World'. The author suggests that sportsmen have a duty to set a better example and calls for a more respectful and constructive approach in sports.

The International Images Film Festival for Women (IIFF) 2023, themed 'Women of Hope', will take place in Harare from November 28 to December 2 and in Bulawayo from December 8 to December 10. The festival will showcase films from around the world, focusing on women's stories of resilience and societal impact. The opening film is 'NOME', directed by Sana Na N’Hada. IIFF will also offer masterclasses led by industry professionals such as Zanele Mthembu and Carla Sospedra. The festival is organized by the ICAPA Trust and supported financially by the Culture Fund and the European Union in Zimbabwe, with free screenings at various venues.

The article discusses the concept of the Messiah in Judaism, its origins, and the expectations of the Messiah's role according to Jewish tradition. It explains the historical context of anointing in the Bible and how it has influenced the concept of divine right in European monarchies. The article also describes the heightened messianic expectations during times of Jewish suffering and lists several historical instances where false messiahs emerged.

Zimbabwe faces a significant waste management crisis, with over 300,000 tonnes of plastic waste generated annually, much of which is improperly disposed of. The article discusses the roles of the government, corporations, and citizens in addressing this issue, emphasizing the importance of corporate social responsibility. Delta Beverages is highlighted for its recycling efforts, while the United Nations' sustainable development goals are cited as a framework for improvement. The article calls for a collaborative approach involving policymakers, producers, and other stakeholders to assign economic value to waste and enhance environmental sustainability.

The Nkayi community will host the Nkayi Music Festival on December 29 and 30, featuring musicians from Bulawayo, South Africa, and local Nkayi artists. The festival aims to foster a sense of pride and ownership among the people of Nkayi, encouraging them to support local musicians and build a stronger community. Collen Moyo, the festival's secretary general, emphasized the event's goal of creating shared experiences and positive change. The festival will also include prizes and performances by various artists, aiming to celebrate culture and strengthen community bonds.

Mental health is crucial for individual and community wellbeing. The December holidays offer opportunities for rest, disconnection from work, and reconnection with loved ones, which can enhance mental health. However, they can also bring financial pressure, social stress, loneliness, and grief. To maintain mental wellbeing, it is important to stay emotionally aware, rest, disconnect from technology, and manage expectations and financial pressures. Seeking help from healthcare providers is advised for those struggling with mental health challenges.

Zimbabwe commemorated World Aids Day with a focus on community leadership in the HIV response. President Emmerson Mnangagwa highlighted the importance of decentralizing power and resources to communities, which has led to significant progress in HIV prevention and treatment. The country has achieved epidemic control with a notable decline in new HIV infections. First Lady Auxilia Mnangagwa and other leaders emphasized the role of community involvement in reducing HIV transmission and addressing gender-based violence. Zimbabwe's robust community structures and multi-sectoral approach have been pivotal in achieving the 95-95-95 targets and other milestones in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Digital Satellite Television (DStv) has expanded its channel offerings ahead of the festive season to enhance viewer experience. Multichoice Zimbabwe's assistant quality assessor, Yeukai Kupara, announced the addition of new channels to selective packages starting December 1. Comedy Central joins Compact Plus, M-Net Movies 3 is added for Compact customers, Africa Magic Showcase is included for Compact customers, Kix is added for DStv Family, and TNT is introduced for DStv Access customers. The new channels offer a variety of entertainment options, including comedy, action, adventure, and Hollywood blockbusters.

Zimbabwe aims to reduce mother-to-child transmission of HIV to less than 5% by 2026, as announced by Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora. The country launched the Triple Elimination of the Mother to Child Transmission Plan (2023-2026), targeting HIV, syphilis, and Hepatitis B. The plan emphasizes prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and support for these diseases. Health partners are urged to collaborate towards achieving a generation free from HIV-related infections. The Zimbabwe National Network of People Living with HIV (ZNNP+) supports the initiative and commits to empowering women with knowledge and family planning choices.

NMB Bank Limited in Zimbabwe has obtained a US$15 million trade finance facility from the African Development Bank to support SMEs and corporates in the agribusiness and trade distribution sectors. This marks AfDB's first collaboration with NMB, which has raised US$130 million in foreign credit since 2010. The facility is expected to facilitate over US$100 million in trade by 2026, enhancing intra-Africa trade and reducing the trade finance gap. Additional funds have been accessed from the European Investment Bank and are anticipated from the Trade and Development Bank, with more than US$55 million in the pipeline from two international institutions.

The United Arab Emirates leads pledges to finance a new loss and damage fund adopted at COP28 in Dubai, aimed at helping climate change-prone countries like Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Mozambique recover from tropical storms and droughts. The fund, operationalized this week, has received significant commitments from UAE, Germany, the UK, Japan, and the US. The fund addresses the disproportionate impact of climate-induced loss and damage on marginalized communities, with hopes that developed nations will take responsibility for their role in climate change. The World Bank will host the funds on an interim basis, and the initiative is seen as a significant win for vulnerable countries, especially in Africa.

Highlanders Football Club has parted ways with coach Baltemar Brito and assistant coach Antonio Torres due to uncertainties surrounding their sponsorship deal with Sakunda, which is set to expire at the end of the month. The club is unable to negotiate new contracts with the coaches or players without a commitment from the sponsor, leaving them in a precarious financial situation. Key players like Mbongeni Ndlovu and Andrew Mbeba are also affected, with other clubs showing interest in them. Sakunda's sponsorship had previously provided financial stability, covering salaries and administrative costs.

Highlanders' coach Baltemar Brito has left the club after less than two seasons and returned to Portugal. His assistant, Antonio Torres, confirmed their departure and expressed gratitude for their time with the club, highlighting their 22 unbeaten games and the passionate support from fans.

WestProp Holdings and its CEO Ken Sharpe received significant accolades at the Zimbabwe Institute of Management awards, with the company winning the 'Private Sector Award of the Year' and Sharpe being named 'Businessman of the Year'. Sharpe dedicated his award to his wife and team, and notably passed his award to Lincoln Masiyanyama, owner of Nakiso Boreholes, as a gesture of inspiration. The event highlighted WestProp's impactful contributions to the housing sector and its effective marketing strategies.

Four Harare residents were charged with unlawful possession of ivory and appeared in court. The accused, Ngoni Jira, Tichaona Mafusire, Estery Mafusire, and Watson Kahombe, were remanded in custody and advised to seek bail from the High Court. The CID Minerals Flora and Fauna Unit, acting on a tip-off, arrested the suspects after a sting operation. The seized ivory weighed 5.47 kilograms.

Umkhathi Theatre Works, a prominent cultural group in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, celebrated its 26th anniversary. Founded in 1997, the group is known for its unique performances that blend traditional Zimbabwean culture with modern sensibilities. They have addressed social issues like HIV and AIDS through their work and have collaborated with various artists and organizations. Founder Matesu Dube highlighted their adaptation to changing technology and their vision to become a theatre arts resource center. The group has made significant contributions to the cultural and social landscape of Bulawayo and Zimbabwe.

Buy Zimbabwe is engaging with the Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Praz) to prioritize locally-produced goods and services in public procurement. The campaign aims to reduce imports and support local manufacturers, with a focus on tightening regulations to favor local products. Despite a reduction in the import bill, there is a need to value-add exports and build a national database to link local products to markets. The public sector, being the largest buyer, presents a significant opportunity for local manufacturers.

Shihan Samson Muripo, Zimbabwe's renowned karateka, reflects on his final bout in Shizuoka, Japan, expressing disappointment with the host referees' decisions but accepting the outcome. Despite the setback, Muripo remains positive about his career, highlighting the highs and lows of competitive sports. He plans to focus on the growth and development of combat sports in Zimbabwe, aiming to leave a lasting legacy. Muripo recently graduated to 6th Dan, with his lieutenants George Mutambu and Likhwa Khumalo grading to 5th Dan, alongside other international karatekas.

German producer Dirty Fangz has announced an exclusive NFT collaboration with Wu-Tang Clan's Inspectah Deck and Söhnemannheims rapper Metaphysics. The track, titled 'Wu-Masters,' will be released on December 8 on the platform sound.xyz and will be limited to a thousand copies worldwide. Unlike conventional releases, the track will not be available for streaming on popular platforms and can only be owned as an NFT. This innovative approach aims to redefine music sales and ownership, putting control back in the hands of the buyer. Dirty Fangz's past collaborations include notable artists like KRS-ONE and Snoop Dog.

Tariro 'neGitare' Chaniwa, a Zimbabwean musician, has carved out a unique niche in the music industry with her Afro-Fusion sound, blending indigenous African sounds with contemporary urban styles. Starting her musical journey at 13, she has collaborated with artists from various countries and holds multiple academic degrees. Tariro is also an entrepreneur, running TNG Music and Magitare Africa Trust, and is involved in community arts and events like the Stanbic Jacaranda Music Festival. She emphasizes her identity as an Afro-Fusion artist, distinct from Afro-Jazz, and values her experiences, particularly a transformative tour in Germany.

Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (Zimura) CEO Polisile Ncube-Chimhini emphasized the potential of music to strengthen Zimbabwe-China relations at the Sub Forum on Sino-African Copyright Cooperation in Chengdu. She highlighted the importance of copyright protection and digital rights management to ensure rightful compensation for African music entering new markets, particularly China. Ncube-Chimhini called for reciprocal agreements between Africa and China and urged China to leverage its technological expertise to support African music industries.

The Zimbabwean government is finalizing legislation to empower the Competition and Tariffs Commission (CTC) to investigate and prosecute anti-competitive practices. Industry and Commerce Minister Sithembiso Nyoni emphasized the need for a robust legal framework to regulate market behavior and ensure compliance. The Competition Amendment Bill aims to prevent monopolies, cartels, and other anti-competitive behaviors, fostering a fair marketplace that benefits businesses and consumers. The government is also committed to collaborating with international counterparts to address issues like price-fixing and abuse of dominance, promoting innovation and economic growth.

Zimbabwe senior men's cricket coach Dave Houghton urges local fans to support the team following their recent setbacks, as they prepare to host Ireland in a six-match limited overs series. Houghton emphasizes the importance of fan support and backs the senior players to perform well. He highlights the need for a continuous cycle of players to maintain the team's competitiveness. The national selectors have made several changes to the squad, bringing in new and returning players to strengthen the team.

Goldswift Construction, a multi-award-winning company, has become a leading brand in Zimbabwe's construction industry due to its innovation, quality, and affordable services. CEO Budwell Nziramasanga emphasizes the importance of proper investment in real estate and the company's role in providing reliable construction services. The company, established in 2015, has been commended for its excellence and commitment to quality. Projects manager Thandiwe Nziramasanga highlights the company's customer-centric approach and successful completion of significant projects. The company's Build Wise Promotion, launched in April 2023, has been a success, further solidifying its reputation.

The 2024 budget unveiled by Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube has been met with widespread criticism in Zimbabwe, described as the worst since independence. The budget is seen as exacerbating the economic struggles of already burdened citizens through increased taxes and fees, including a controversial 'mansion tax.' The government, led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, is accused of failing to create economic opportunities and instead shifting the financial burden onto the poor. Comparisons are drawn with Malawi's government under President Lazarus Chakwera, highlighting similar economic failures. The article calls for resistance against the budget and criticizes the leadership for its detrimental impact on the country's economic health.

The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (Zacc) has partnered with local authorities to combat corruption, as revealed by Zacc commissioner Jessie Majome during a workshop in Bulawayo. Majome urged the establishment of integrity committees and highlighted the challenges faced by whistleblowers, including victimization. She called for strict penalties against those who victimize whistleblowers and noted that 86 integrity committees have been established, with the current workshop expected to increase the number to 96.

CBZ Holdings Limited has appointed Luxon Zembe as the acting board chairperson effective December 1, succeeding Marc Holtzman. Zembe will oversee the merger of CBZ Holdings, ZB Financial Holdings, and First Mutual Holdings to form Zimbabwe's largest financial services group. The appointment follows CBZ's recent acquisition of a significant stake in FMHL. Group CEO Blessing Mudavanhu will depart at the end of the month, with Lawrence Nyazema stepping in as acting group CEO.

Radnor Mine, operated by ZimCn Investments, emphasizes environmental protection and community development in its mining operations in Mashonaland East Province. The company, praised for its sustainable practices, has created significant employment and invested heavily in infrastructure, including a gold crushing plant. The mine, officially opened by President Emmerson Mnangagwa in June 2022, adheres to government policies and has received positive assessments from the Environment Management Agency.

The letter discusses the author's experiences in Kenya, highlighting the influence of global events on local communities and the ongoing struggle against racial discrimination. It praises the efforts of African leaders like Kenya's President William Ruto in addressing self-respect and visa policies, while also critiquing the remnants of imperialist narratives. The author emphasizes the importance of African self-sufficiency and internalization, using examples from the tea and lithium industries to illustrate economic disparities. The letter also touches on the role of social media in promoting pan-Africanism and the need for Africans to reclaim their narrative.

Rapper Young Gemini faces a tough challenge to retain her title as Zimbabwean hip hop queen at the upcoming Zim Hip Hop Awards on December 15. Competing against seasoned artists like Noluntu J, Brucella, Millz Million, Banshee, and Natasha Muz, Young Gemini expressed confidence in her previous achievements but acknowledged the pressure to maintain her status. The awards, themed 'Evolution', will celebrate 50 years of hip hop, highlighting its growth from a niche movement in New York to a global cultural phenomenon.

The article debunks claims circulating on social media that the payment of lobola (bride-price) is no longer a legal necessity in Zimbabwe. It clarifies that under the Marriages Act of 2022, lobola payment remains a requirement for customary law marriages. The Act combines the Civil Marriages Act and the Customary Marriages Act, allowing monogamous couples with a registered customary union to change to a registered civil union. It also states that no person may be married under both general and customary law simultaneously.

The public health system in Zimbabwe faces significant challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, drug shortages, and a demotivated workforce. The Health and Child Care ministry, led by Douglas Mombeshora, is under scrutiny for maladministration and corruption. The article calls for a radical overhaul of the system, emphasizing the need for qualified management and addressing issues of nepotism and favoritism. The piece also highlights the importance of achieving Universal Health Coverage and supporting President Emmerson Mnangagwa's Vision 2030.

Women and young girls in Africa face significant health challenges due to societal roles and lack of access to quality healthcare. At the 3rd International Conference on Public Health in Africa, experts highlighted the susceptibility of women to diseases like respiratory infections and sexually transmitted infections due to their roles as caregivers and workers. High maternal and infant mortality rates, along with barriers to accessing healthcare, were discussed. The conference emphasized the need for gender-sensitive policies and improved healthcare access for women. Notable speakers included Professor Nkandu Luo, Dr. Tlaleng Mofokeng, and Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, who underscored the critical role of women in healthcare and the importance of addressing gender inequities.

Hope for Kids handed over Z$55,000.00 worth of groceries to Daisy Dube Children’s Home in Chipinge, donated by Diaspora Insurance as part of its corporate social responsibility. The donation included various food items and was praised by the organization's director, Misheck Mlambo. The home's matron, Juliet Chifamba, and an inmate, Tatenda Mashava, expressed gratitude, noting the timely nature of the donation amidst food shortages. Diaspora Insurance CEO Jeff Madzingo stated the intention was to support vulnerable groups during the festive season and the COVID-19 pandemic.