Community-based organizations in Manicaland, Zimbabwe, have formed a committee to hold mining companies accountable for environmental and socio-economic issues. The initiative follows harmful practices by some foreign and local miners, including riverbed mining and cyanide poisoning. The committee plans to engage stakeholders, including the Environmental Management Agency and the mines parliamentary portfolio committee, to develop strategies that benefit both communities and investors. The organizations aim to mobilize affected communities and participate in crafting new mining laws to ensure environmental protection and accountability.

Zimbabwean swimmers Donata Katai and Liam O’Hara set new personal best times in the 100m backstroke and 200m individual medley events at the 16th FINA World Swimming Championships in Melbourne. Katai finished with a time of 1.01.85, while O’Hara set a new national record of 2.04.90. Coach Masi Takaedza expressed satisfaction with their performances and highlighted the conducive training environment. Nomvula Mjimba is set to compete in the 100m freestyle, and O’Hara will participate in the 100m breaststroke.

Investigative journalists and media houses are encouraged to actively involve marginalized communities in news production to foster socio-economic and political development in under-reported areas. The Information for Development Trust (IDT) convened a roundtable in Harare, emphasizing the need for media to engage local communities in setting news priorities. Key figures like Precious Shumba, Merjury Mhlanga, Kholwani Nyathi, Tawanda Majoni, and Owen Gagare highlighted the importance of community involvement, trust, and transparency in journalism. The IDT, in partnership with The Standard, promotes a horizontal approach to investigative journalism, aiming to amplify local voices and ensure relevant information benefits grassroots communities.

Mo Ibrahim, founder of the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, discusses his initiative to honor former African leaders who democratically transfer power to their successors with the US$5 million Mo Ibrahim Prize. He emphasizes the importance of good governance and leadership in Africa, highlighting the need for better management of resources and the recognition of positive role models. Ibrahim shares insights from his discussions with notable leaders like Nelson Mandela and Kofi Annan, and underscores the significance of the Ibrahim Index of African Governance in measuring and promoting effective governance. The interview also touches on the challenges faced by former leaders in Africa and the broader implications of recognizing and supporting good leadership on the continent.

Nearly 40,000 people have been displaced in South Sudan's Upper Nile State due to renewed fighting, according to the UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. The displaced are in dire need of urgent assistance, and threats of violence are hindering humanitarian efforts. Ceasefire monitors plan to investigate the clashes, which involve the national army, Maiwut opposition forces, and ethnic rival groups in the Fashoda area. The Community for Progress Organisation reported armed youths amassing troops, though this information has not been independently verified.

At least 100 top government officials in Zimbabwe are receiving solar panels at taxpayer expense to mitigate the impact of rolling electricity outages, despite the general population enduring up to 18-hour power cuts daily. The project, managed by the Public Service Commission, is criticized for its inflated costs and perceived favoritism towards high-ranking officials. Trade unions and public sector representatives have condemned the initiative, arguing it exacerbates inequality and fails to address the broader energy crisis affecting ordinary citizens.

Winky D, the renowned Zimdancehall artist, is set to launch a new album on December 31 at the Harare International Conference Centre. Known for his cryptic messages and rare media appearances, Winky D's latest endeavor aims to promote unity and combat intolerance within the music industry. The event will feature performances by several other artists, marking a significant move towards collaboration. Winky D's use of steampunk fashion and references to historical figures like Archimedes underscores his commitment to addressing social issues through innovative and artistic means.

The Strategy, Transformation, Incubation and Release (STIR) programme in Zimbabwe aims to promote excellence and productivity by providing business ideation and development incubation through strategic mentoring. Piloted at Women's University in Africa, the programme has received positive feedback for transforming mindsets and equipping young professionals. The initiative seeks to address gaps in the Zimbabwean curriculum by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, with plans to expand nationally and across Africa. The programme requires significant funding and aims to engage more stakeholders and partners.

At Zanu PF’s elective congress, Emmerson Mnangagwa was endorsed to remain the ruling party’s leader, securing his position as Zimbabwe’s president until at least mid-2023. Analysts view this as a strategic move against Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga’s ambitions. Despite Mnangagwa’s efforts to weaken Chiwenga’s influence, the vice-president retains significant power, supported by the military. Chiwenga’s allies believe his plan to ascend to the presidency remains on track, based on an alleged agreement with Mnangagwa. The political landscape remains unpredictable, with potential conflicts looming between Mnangagwa and Chiwenga.