AGP Executive Report

Tragedy on the road: A kombi/minibus packed with schoolchildren caught fire in Gweru (Senga, Chirandu Business Centre), killing seven pupils; police say preliminary findings point to a jerry can of petrol possibly fueling the blaze, with investigations ongoing and injured children rushed to hospital. Constitutional politics (CAB3): Opposition and ruling-aligned MPs traded barbs as debate on Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 intensifies, with CCC figures including Nelson Chamisa ruling out backing another military intervention and Agency Gumbo and Johnson Matambo warning the bill could undermine Zimbabwe’s democratic framework. Reserved sectors push: Government says 432 applications have been received from foreign-owned firms seeking to continue operating in 21 reserved sectors for indigenous Zimbabweans, with more than 280 already approved. Economy & trade: ZimTrade reports export earnings up 48% to US$3.57bn (Jan–Apr 2026) and a narrower trade deficit, driven by value-added products. Health upgrade: The Health ministry took delivery of advanced cancer treatment equipment (LINAC radiotherapy machines) as it moves from phase one into phase two for diagnostics. Business & tourism: ZSE signed an MoU with INVESCI to grow the SME capital market ecosystem via ZEEX, while tourism authorities say hotels in Masvingo are already heavily booked ahead of Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbabwe World Tourism Expo.

Local Governance & Youth: Umguza Rural District Council inducted 25 newly elected junior councillors, training them on governance, ethics, public finance and youth participation, with the chair urging them to act as “leaders of today.” Investment & Pensions: A Zimbabwe Institutional Investors Forum in Harare (June 24-25) will focus on mobilising pension and other long-term capital for sustainable growth and infrastructure. Regulation & Business Climate: Government is consulting to cut liquor licence fees, streamline applications and reduce delays for operators. Public Procurement Reform: PRAZ’s symposium in Bulawayo spotlights procurement as a driver of inclusive economic transformation, with MAPS reviews and e-procurement expansion on the agenda. Economy & Fiscal Risks: A new Zimbabwe Economic Pulse report warns that a reported cash surplus hides rising debt-servicing costs, domestic borrowing reliance and wage-bill pressure. Agriculture & Jobs: Zimbabwe is training a delegation in rabbit artificial insemination to speed genetic gains; the industry already involves 5,000+ farmers. Infrastructure Finance: Bulawayo City Council seeks over US$13m borrowing for water, sewage, roads, ICT and renewable energy upgrades. Industry Update: PPC Zim paid a record US$36m dividend after strong volumes and profitability gains. Governance Debate (CAB3): CCC MP Susan Matsunga backed CAB3 proposals on extending the presidential term and having Parliament elect the President. Public Safety & Health: FIU challenged university students to build solutions against financial crime, fraud and money laundering.

Beitbridge Development: The Matabeleland South government has broken ground for a new Central Business District extension along Bulawayo Road, with tarred roads, sewer, water reticulation and drainage planned over 6–9 months, and commercial development of 33 serviced stands expected from early 2027. Zim–Zambia Trade Push: Zimbabwean firms are being urged to seize new opportunities as elevated ties are formalised through a Bi-National Commission, with a three-day services business mission in Lusaka running June 9–11. Public Health at the Border: IOM’s “HIV Knows No Borders” initiative is working in Beitbridge to shift attitudes on HIV testing and sexual health, targeting mobile communities facing stigma and disrupted treatment. Transport Upgrade: Zimbabwe Passenger Transport Organisation says 200 public service buses are on the way from China, with 500 more under production, aimed at easing urban shortages and curbing illegal touting. Air Zimbabwe London Return: Air Zimbabwe plans to resume Harare–London Gatwick flights for the first time in 14 years via a 13-month wet-lease ACMI deal with Spanish carrier Plus Ultra from July 1. Elections Fees: The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission says it will review complaints after sharply raised nomination and accreditation fees sparked opposition concerns. Arts & Tech: AI music is stirring debate over creativity, ownership and royalties as Zimbabwean artists and producers weigh in on the growing trend. Xenophobia Fallout: Zimbabwe continues repatriations from South Africa amid rising tensions, including 74 citizens returned from Mossel Bay.

Responsible Mining & ASGM: Zimbabwe’s Mines Ministry, EMA and planetGOLD are assessing small-scale gold mines in Filabusi, including how miners process ore and manage risks like mercury use. Lithium Update: Premier African Minerals says ore from the Run-of-Mine pad is now feeding its new flotation plant at the Zulu Lithium and Tantalum Project, with optimisation still early. Economic Reforms & ZiG: ZNCC met the IMF on Zimbabwe’s reform push, covering the Staff Monitored Programme, debt/arrears clearance, FX market changes, fiscal sustainability and confidence-building for ZiG. Tax Pressure on Business: A legal analysis warns ZIMRA’s “pay now, argue later” and backdated VAT assessments are disrupting investment and costing firms millions. Cancer Care Upgrade: Treasury says the sugar tax cancer fund will keep buying modern diagnostic and radiotherapy equipment, including a linear accelerator for Parirenyatwa and another for Mpilo. Public Transport Boost: ZPTO says 200 public service buses are en route from China, with 500 more being built to curb illegal touting and pirate taxes. Local Governance & Safety: Budiriro residents demand Harare City Council accountability after three people drowned in an uncovered sewer sludge pit. Agriculture on the Ground: Gweru expanded wheat at Go Beer Farm from 40 to 43 hectares after a 120-tonne 2025 harvest.

UN Diplomacy: Zimbabwe says it will defend the UN Charter at the Security Council after winning a 2027-2028 seat, with Foreign Affairs Minister Amon Murwira pledging principled multilateralism. Constitutional Crisis (CAB3): Opposition and diaspora voices are intensifying pressure around CAB3, with CCC secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu denying reports of an “ultimatum” to Zanu PF, while the Zimbabwe Diaspora Vote Initiative accuses Parliament’s committee of leaving out key facts in its CAB3 consultations. Education Oversight: Higher and Tertiary Education Minister Frederick Shava orders mandatory pre-departure clearance for Zimbabweans studying abroad and pushes ZIMCHE to tighten independence and oversight. Labour Rights: Zimbabwe has been placed on the ITUC workers’ rights watch list after reported increases in violations and harassment of trade unionists. Economy & Industry: Food processing is highlighted as a jobs engine, while Harare’s local industry push continues with brand upgrades like Cairns Foods’ refreshed Spuds packaging. Mining & Policy: Court action keeps grain import levy measures in force, and lithium coverage returns as prices rebound—raising fresh questions about Zimbabwe’s downstream push. Sports: Zakir Hasan’s century powers Bangladesh HP to beat Zimbabwe A in the first ODI.

Monetary Policy Tightening: The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe is considering restructuring non-negotiable certificates of deposits and adding new instruments to absorb excess liquidity, as it keeps a firm grip on money supply growth. Constitution Debate: Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi defended Constitution Amendment Bill No. 3 in Parliament, arguing it’s a lawful refinement of the 2013 charter to improve governance and institutional efficiency—while talks around CAB3 remain deadlocked. Court Ruling on Grain Levies: The High Court threw out Grain Millers Association of Zimbabwe’s urgent bid to halt the grain import levy framework, clearing the way for implementation. ZSE vs VFEX Pressure: The ZSE unveiled sweeping listing reforms—lowering market cap and free-float requirements—to stem delistings and competition from the dollar-linked VFEX. Regional Migration Tensions: South Africa’s Ramaphosa promised action on illegal migration after xenophobic protests, while Zimbabweans and other regional communities watch closely as enforcement and employer penalties are discussed. Lake Kariba Boundary Clarity: Zambia and Zimbabwe agreed to make the Lake Kariba border visible with floating buoys to reduce clashes over fishing and vessel seizures. Business & Growth: Cyber Bank CEO Nyambirai urged firms to tap diaspora remittances as long-term investment capital, while Zimgold is expanding edible oil capacity in Bulawayo to boost output and exports. Health Hope: CancerServe urged patients and families not to lose hope, highlighting survivor stories and support for treatment and recovery.

UN Security Council Seat Debate: Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart and the Mthwakazi Republic Party (MRP) are pushing back on celebrations over Zimbabwe’s UN Security Council election, warning it should not be read as a blanket endorsement of current leadership and raising governance and accountability questions. South Africa Migration Crackdown: President Cyril Ramaphosa announced tougher measures on illegal immigration, including intensified deportations and workplace checks, while also distancing government from civilian-led identity checks amid xenophobia fears. Xenophobia Fallout: Zimbabwe repatriated 74 citizens from South Africa after attacks in Mossel Bay, with counselling and reintegration support at Beitbridge. Constitutional Crisis (CAB3): As Parliament moves toward a CAB3 vote, opposition and civil society allege intimidation and procedural bias, while claims swirl that Zanu-PF leaders withheld court papers from MPs facing legal challenges. Judiciary Controversy: Mnangagwa’s farm mechanisation gift to retired Chief Justice Luke Malaba is drawing sharp criticism from lawyers, who say it taints rulings. Economy & Markets: Experts urge fiscal discipline for stability as inflation hits single digits; meanwhile the ZSE has lost about US$1.16bn in value amid delistings. Sports: TelOne beat Highlanders 1-0, while Zambia’s Barbra Banda is nursing a hamstring injury ahead of WAFCON.

Constitutional Showdown: Zimbabwe Parliament is expected to vote on the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Bill (No. 3) by the end of this week, after debate resumes Tuesday, with government warning opponents may try to delay proceedings. Cancer Care Upgrade: Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube says Zimbabwe will keep buying full cancer-diagnosis and treatment machines for major referral hospitals, funded by the Sugar Content Tax, with Mpilo and Parirenyatwa installations already underway. UN Diplomacy: President Mnangagwa hailed Zimbabwe’s election to a UN Security Council non-permanent seat for 2027–2028 after winning 182 of 190 votes, citing growing international confidence. Currency Pressure: Inflation has returned to three digits, with May year-on-year inflation at 131.7%, as the Zimbabwe dollar continues to lose ground and multiple exchange rates persist. Migration Tensions in SA: South Africa’s government moved to calm fears of a June 30 “shutdown” over illegal immigration protests, saying enforcement will remain state-led and Ramaphosa will address the nation. Air Zimbabwe Update: Air Zimbabwe says it will miss the June deadline for Harare–London direct flights, now targeting July 1 for Gatwick relaunch. Sports (Women’s Football): The Mighty Warriors reached the Four Nations final after beating Lesotho 3-1, setting up a derby against Zambia.

Constitutional Crisis: Nelson Chamisa is calling for a “transitional government” and urges President Mnangagwa and Zanu PF to withdraw CAB3, which would extend Mnangagwa’s term to 2030 and change how future presidents are chosen. Urban Housing Crackdown: Harare City Council is pushing a demolition blitz targeting over 5,000 homes, citing dozens of High Court orders and “illegal structures,” raising fears of mass homelessness. Migration Fallout: South Africa is weighing arrests of alleged instigators and possible diplomatic action as xenophobic anti-immigration protests spill into a wider security and foreign-relations issue. Economy & Currency: The RBZ has introduced new short-term ZiG Gold term deposit bills (30/60/90 days) to absorb excess liquidity and stabilise the exchange rate. Infrastructure & Accountability: Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart alleges shortcuts on the Harare–Beitbridge Highway; the Roads ministry rejects the claims and calls for proper process. Energy: Centragrid Solar Plant in Mashonaland West is now feeding 25MW into the national grid. Media Shift: A new national survey says internet use has overtaken TV and print in urban Zimbabwe. Sports & Culture: Chicken Inn’s Lifa Ncube is credited for building the club’s rise; Bulawayo youth arts group Creartive Culture wins a business awards CSR honour; and Zimbabwe’s Chinese Bridge finals spotlight student creativity.

Water Security in Bulawayo: President adviser Dr Paul Tungwarara is set to commission the Presidential Borehole Scheme in Cowdray Park, Bulawayo, as the government pushes solar-powered boreholes to ease clean-water shortages. Youth & Environment: Environment minister Tino Machakaire urged young Zimbabweans to lead climate action and wildlife conservation, calling for practical steps like cutting plastic pollution and boosting recycling. Immigration Tensions in SA: Benoni residents marched demanding action on undocumented immigration, linking it to crime and pressure on services, while Zimbabwe says it will not assist citizens facing deportation after ZEP expiry. Politics—CAB3 Under Fire: Opposition leader Nelson Chamisa renewed calls for a transitional government and urged withdrawal of CAB3, as debate continues over extending Mnangagwa’s term and Defence Forces powers; government also admitted elections have been marred by rigging and violence. UN Diplomatic Win: The US congratulated Zimbabwe after it secured a non-permanent UNSC seat, boosting hopes for wider economic engagement. Mining & Illicit Trade: Mining revenue hit about US$2bn in the first half, while Harare authorities flagged Copacabana and Gulf Complex as drug hotspots and police arrested a Zimbabwean over R2.3m illicit tobacco smuggling. Innovation for Health: CIMAS launched a US$7,000 Healthathon to incubate local tech solutions tackling healthcare access and affordability.

Constitutional Showdown (CAB3): Zimbabwe Parliament adjourned until Tuesday as debate on the Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 heats up, with speculation of a vote as early as Thursday/Friday; opposition MPs and critics say the process is compromised, while ZANU-PF insiders worry about securing Senate numbers. Mining Safety & Lives: The Mines ministry launched a National Safety Enforcement Blitz after reports of 64 deaths in Q1, with ground collapses driving fatalities and calls for safety to be a continuous process, not a one-off event. Capital Markets Shift (ZEEX): The ZSE won SECZim approval to launch the Zimbabwe Entrepreneurship Exchange (ZEEX) for SMEs, aiming to widen access to regulated funding. Capital Markets Shift (TSL): TSL plans to delist from the ZSE and migrate to VFEX in late June, moving from ZiG to a US dollar-denominated platform. Healthcare Boost (Sugar Tax): New radiotherapy and cancer treatment machines are arriving, funded via sugar tax proceeds, but transparency questions remain over procurement and costs. Art & Culture: Bulawayo’s National Art Gallery faces backlash after rental hikes reportedly doubled, sparking a fresh dispute between artists and management. Court Drama: A stray cat disrupted a Bulawayo murder trial, briefly forcing an adjournment before sentencing. Regional Integration (SADC): SADC adopted legal instruments in Victoria Falls to speed up trade, tourism travel and pooled medicine procurement, and to revive the Tribunal through renewed consultations.

UN Diplomacy: Zimbabwe has secured a UN Security Council non-permanent seat for 2027–28, with global congratulations and a fresh spotlight on the country’s international image. Constitutional Politics (CAB3): Parliament debate on the controversial Constitution Amendment Bill No. 3 continues amid warnings from police and renewed opposition claims—especially around changes to the Defence Forces’ constitutional role. Mining & Gold: RioZim’s auditors warn of worsening liquidity and losses, while Mines Ministry says the sector generated about US$2bn in revenue in the first half and targets stronger export receipts, led by gold. Energy Transition Minerals: A GI-TOC report flags Zimbabwe’s vulnerability to illicit arms and mineral plunder, while SADC launches a regional push to keep energy-transition minerals value chains in the region. Health & Innovation: Zimbabwe receives advanced cancer radiotherapy machines, and CIMAS launches a US$7,000 Healthathon to incubate local health tech solutions. Business & Finance: Old Mutual CEO Samuel Matsekete warns ZSE de-listings are shrinking investible assets, as Delta Corporation signals expansion after demand outpaced forecasts.

UN Diplomacy: Zimbabwe won a non-permanent UN Security Council seat for 2027–2028, with President Mnangagwa and officials citing 182 votes as proof of growing international confidence. Constitutional Politics (CAB3): Parliament’s CAB3 debate is heating up, with ZRP warning opponents against inciting violence and a parliamentary report claiming 99.4% support—while critics question the consultation figures. Succession Tensions: Zanu-PF insiders frame 2028 as a “vulnerability” point in a relay-race succession argument, as retired generals renew opposition to CAB3. Economy & Food Security: Treasury introduced grain import levies to protect local producers and fund irrigation, even as grain millers challenge the policy in court. Business & Industry: AfDB backed ATIDI with a US$125m equity boost, and Bulawayo SMEs say rental disputes with NRZ have left 40+ businesses in limbo. Mining & Environment: Chinese miners reportedly abandoned illegal Haroni River operations in Chimanimani after scrutiny, while Zimbabwe’s gold restart at Redwing Mine is underway.

UN Security Council Win: Zimbabwe has been elected as a non-permanent member for 2027–2028, replacing Somalia, after the UN General Assembly voted in Austria, Kyrgyzstan, Portugal, Trinidad and Tobago and Zimbabwe. Constitutional Crisis (CAB3): Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi told Parliament that elections since 2002 have been repeatedly disputed, defending CAB3’s push to extend the electoral cycle and election terms—while critics question the consultation process after figures showed only 2,935 of over half a million submissions opposed the bill. Power Struggle in Zanu PF: Old fault lines are resurfacing as Mnangagwa’s term-extension push clashes with CAB3 opponents linked to Vice-President Chiwenga, with warnings from retired commanders about alleged inducements. Food Security Policy: Government and farmers back new grain import levies and local procurement rules to protect domestic producers and stabilise grain markets. Tax Compliance: Zimra urged civil servants and businesses in Karoi to remember salaries depend on taxes paid by citizens, warning of audits and enforcement. Business & Markets: The ZSE cut its minimum listing threshold from US$10m to US$1m to attract new listings and restore liquidity. Sports (Women’s Football): Zifa vice president Loveness Mukura says Zimbabwe’s Mighty Warriors are targeting LA28 qualifiers starting with the Four Nations in Zambia. Regional Alarm (Xenophobia): Violence against migrants in South Africa has triggered fresh warnings and repatriation moves, including advisories affecting Zimbabweans.

UN Security Council Win: Zimbabwe clinched a non-permanent UNSC seat for 2027-28 with 182/190 votes, beating Germany and joining Austria, Portugal and Trinidad & Tobago as the new rotating members. Constitutional Amendment (CAB3): Parliament’s CAB3 debate is intensifying as police warn opponents against inciting violence on social media, while a committee report claims 99.4% of submissions back the bill that would extend presidential terms and shift presidential election to Parliament. Agriculture & Climate Risk: Government moved to shield crops from a predicted Super El Niño, outlining plans to protect the 2026/27 summer season. Food Policy & Farmers: Treasury approved grain import levies to protect local producers and fund climate-resilient irrigation infrastructure, even as legal challenges loom. Health Preparedness: Hurungwe activated Ebola emergency readiness after alerts linked to the DRC outbreak, citing cross-border risk along major transport routes. Investment Push: ZIDA launched a DIY e-platform to simplify investment access and cut red tape for potential investors. Transport Sector: NRZ CEO Munyaradzi Charangwa resigned on medical grounds; deputy Ainah Dube-Kaguru takes over as acting CEO.

Constitutional Crossroads: Zimbabwe’s Constitutional Amendment Bill (No. 3) is back in focus after Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi tabled it in the National Assembly, setting up fresh debate on the proposed changes amid widening political heat. CAB3 Backlash: Retired generals and former senior officials renew warnings that CAB3 is a power grab tied to Mnangagwa’s term extension, while churches and indigenous councils urge MPs to debate calmly and prioritise stability. Youth & Digital Policy: Cabinet approved the National Youth Policy (2026–2030) targeting NEETs, substance abuse and vulnerable groups, and also backed a Child Online Protection Policy (2026–2030) to safeguard children online. Women in Industry: Zimbabwe Women in Manufacturing (ZWIM) was officially launched, with government backing for women-led value addition and industrialisation. Trade & Regional Push: ZimTrade plans a services business mission to Zambia (June 9–11) to help over 30 Zimbabwean firms find buyers and partners. Local Governance & Housing: In Hwange, the town secretary inspected 2026 council projects; meanwhile, a new wave of “Murambatsvina”-style demolitions is reported to be displacing families and reigniting housing fears. Bulawayo Health Access: Mobile clinics are helping vulnerable Bulawayo patients reach care they struggle to access due to distance and cost. UN Security Council Bid: Zimbabwe’s campaign for a UNSC non-permanent seat is nearing a key vote as elections begin today.